SPRINGBOK CYBER NEWSLETTER
November 2015 edition
This year’s Rugby World Cup, held in England and Wales, proved a great success. The tournament was organized faultlessly, the crowds were larger than expected and totally joyful, and the standard of play was superb.
Full congratulations must also of course go to Steve Hansen’s and Richie McCaw’s New Zealand “All Blacks” side, who proved worthy winners, and indeed elevated the game of Rugby Union to an even higher plain of excellence. If we have any criticism of New Zealand it is that they continue to perform the Maori Haka before all their games, as if their side was comprised entirely of Maoris and other Polynesians. The New Zealand Maoris have their own side selected entirely upon ethnic lines, so surely the entertaining Haka should be reserved for this side, and this side alone. It has also been quite disappointing to note that prior to all their matches the New Zealand national anthem had to be sung in two versions, firstly in one of the Maori tongues and then in English – though it was most encouraging to note that most of the White players and the bulk of New Zealand supporters in the crowds clearly sang the English verse with increased gusto!
The performance of all four British sides in the tournament, with none of them progressing past the quarter-finals, was a matter of concern of course. Perhaps it is therefore time to “think the unthinkable” and to advocate that a united British team competes in all future Rugby World Cups (and in all similar competitions for that matter) in order to give the southern hemisphere giants more viable opposition. The four British home nations have always of course competed as a united British Lions team when they tour the southern hemisphere countries, and the results of this united side have invariable proved far more triumphant than any of the component parts have been. There will also of course be a united British team competing in next year’s Seven’s tournament at the Olympic Games. [In this regard it must also be asked why the Irish side were always proceeded onto the pitch by both the Republic of Ireland’s tricolor and Ulster’s provincial flag (not the national flag of Northern Ireland!). Surely the flag which should have been carried was the Irish flag (the cross of St.Patrick), or if this does not prove acceptable to certain “politically correct” types then by the widely accepted Irish sporting flag – green with the shamrock badge in the middle.]
Finally we turn to the performance of the “new” South Africa team. By reaching the semi-finals – and indeed by giving the mighty “All Blacks” a close run for their money therein – they exceeded not only our own expectations but also those of most other seasoned commentators. As we have often observed in the past, we are constantly amazed at how the “new” South Africa continues to produce such world-class sides when even a journey to a mid-week training session means taking one’s life in one’s hands in such a lawless country. One thing is for certain however, and that is that once civilized rule is restored in that beleaguered land and the “Springboks” can be restored with all their traditions, then New Zealand’s dominance in world rugby will at last face a formidable challenge!
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SPRINGBOK CLUB NEWS
As most readers will be aware, the planned guest speaker with strong Rhodesian military connections who was to have addressed this year’s Springbok Club UDI Day celebration buffet had to pull out because of the serious ill-health of a close family member, and so far no replacement high-profile guest speaker has been finalised. The organization is optimistic that it will still be able to obtain a guest speaker with strong connections to UDI before the day itself however, but regardless of whether this can be achieved or not the celebration buffet will definitely proceed regardless, with a number of people with strong Rhodesian connections telling something about their memories and experiences of that great land.
The details of this buffet are as follows :-
Date : Saturday 28th November 2015
Time : Assemble from 13.30 hrs ready for proceedings to commence at 14.00 hrs.
Venue : The ARTILLERY ARMS [the upstairs “Barracks” function room], 102 Bunhill Row, off Old Street, London EC1Y 8ND. (Close to Old Street tube station – exit via subway 3 and then follow directions from the station to Whitecross Street Market. Proceed along Old Street itself and then take the second major turning to the left into Bunhill Row, where The Artillery Arms is a short distance away on the right-hand side).
Admission charges (which will include a sumptuous array of succulent buffet snacks!) will be £10.00 per head for Full Members of the Springbok Club, £12.50 for Associate Members and £15.00 for non-members, which may be paid at the door on the day, ideally by cash. In order to estimate numbers in advance it would be appreciated if those intending to attend could inform us in advance, either by ‘phoning: 07711188430 or by e-mailing: springbk@netcomuk.co.uk
[ In view of the great difficulties encountered in obtaining a high-profile guest speaker for this event the Springbok Club has not alas been able to send out postal invitations as usual. It is feared therefore that this might affect the turnout, so we would therefore ask all readers to do their utmost best to attend this important function, and to bring as many family members and colleagues with them as possible.]
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During December the Springbok Club will be holding its annual Day of the Vow commemorative event, which will be held at a central London venue, and will feature a prominent South African as guest speaker. More precise details will be given in next month’s SCN.
The Springbok Club’s 2016 AGM will be held next January. In view of the somewhat difficult year experienced by the Springbok Club this will therefore give all members a good opportunity to make suggestions for future activities to be conducted by the organization, and also to encourage renewed enthusiasm. It is furthermore hoped to welcome a most interesting guest speaker with connections to this year’s Rugby World Cup to address this meeting.
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SWINTON CIRCLE NEWS
Alas, as there has still been no word from either the Chairman or the Secretary of the Swinton Circle announcing details of the organisation’s 2015 AGM (which according to its constitution must be held by the end of November} it must therefore be assumed that the organization has now collapsed – at least in its present form.
Even more disturbing, however, has been the news that the Secretary of the Swinton Circle, Mr.Paul Symonds, has recently agreed to a meeting with the young Canadian Committee member who was clearly implicated in the infiltration and wrecking of the disastrous meeting of 31st July, Mr. Paul Griffin (it should be remembered that Mr.Griffin refused to assist in the ejection of the Islamo-fascist disrupter at this meeting, and was subsequently seen merrily chatting away with him – and by resigning from the organization just three days later and before he could be confronted about his actions at this chaotic meeting clearly confirmed that his involvement with the organization was for ulterior reasons). Just what Mr.Symonds’ motivation was in agreeing to this ill-advised rendezvous with Mr.Griffin is uncertain, as his subsequent comments have not sought to justify his actions in any way, and indeed have been somewhat worrying in themselves. Mr.Symonds furthermore claimed that another Committee member, Mr.Roger Alsop, was also at this rendezvous, and although this hasn’t been confirmed Mr.Alsop has now regretfully tendered his own resignation (which he has now been asked to withdraw as he is such a highly respected and valued member – as indeed is Paul Symonds) citing his opinion that “It's all got a bit too nasty and personal for me”. It would appear therefore that Mr.Griffin has either been threatening other members of the Committee, or else has been spreading lies and smears. Meanwhile the Chairman of the organization, Mr.Robin Willow, seems to have disappeared completely from the scene, as he has been uncontactable almost ever since the notorious meeting of 31st July itself. As Mr.Willow is also Treasurer of the Swinton Circle this of course gives further cause for concern.
That was the bad news. Now for the good news! Those remaining loyal to the Swinton Circle have subsequently been approached by the leadership of another prominent patriotic organization with a view to close co-operation – or even a merger. Formal discussions about these proposals will be held early next year, and the results will of course be reported in future editions of the SCN. It would seem therefore that something positive may yet still arise from the wreckage of the disasters of 31st July!
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CECIL THE LION
Readers will probably recall that in last month’s SCN we carried a report about the distressing and sickening murder of Cecil the Lion, the much loved resident of Hwange Game Park in what is today Zimbabwe, which we had received from the Zimbabwe Conservation Task Force (ZCTF). We have subsequently received the following press statement issued by the Zimbabwe Parks and Wildlife Management Authority from the ZCTF which announces stronger measures which they are adopting in order to prevent any similar acts of cruelty occurring again. We do not doubt that these stronger measures would not have been taken if it wasn’t for the lobbying of Mr. Johnny Rodrigues of the ZCTF and other animal welfare organizations around the world, so therefore congratulate them on their marvellous work in this regard :-
“PRESS STATEMENT BY THE ZIMBABWE PARKS AND WILDLIFE MANAGEMENT AUTHORITY ON MEASURES TO IMPROVE THE ADMINISTARTION OF HUNTING IN THE COUNTRY
”Following the illegal killing of an iconic lion, Cecil, outside the HwangeNational Park on Antoinette farm in Gwayi River Conservancy on the 1st of July 2015, it has become necessary that the Zimbabwe Parks and Wildlife Management Authority further tightens hunting regulations in all areas outside the Parks Estate.
The Authority working with other law enforcement agencies has launched a crackdown to weed out any undesirable elements. To date our law enforcement agencies are following up on all found or reported cases and they have since arrested another culprit, Headman Sibanda, on allegations of breaching hunting regulations. He is currently assisting Police with investigations.
“Further to that crackdown the following measures are going to be implemented immediately;
“1. Hunting of lions, leopards and elephant in areas outside of HwangeNational Parks has been suspended with immediate effect. All such hunts will only be conducted if confirmed and authorized in writing by the Director-General of the Zimbabwe Parks and Wildlife Management Authority, and only if accompanied by parks staff whose costs will be met by the landowner.
”2. Bow hunting has been suspended with immediate effect and no such hunting will be conducted unless it has been confirmed and authorized in writing by the Director-General of the Zimbabwe Parks and Wildlife Management Authority.
”3. Members of the hunting fraternity are being reminded that it is illegal for quotas to be transferred from one hunting area to another. Any case of quota transfer is regarded as poaching. The Authority will not hesitate to arrest, prosecute, and ban for life any persons including professional hunters, clients and land owners who are caught on the wrong side of the law.
”All players in the hunting industry are being reminded to familiarize themselves with the relevant statutes governing the wildlife industry. Further, the Authority would like to appeal to all members of the public that they should report any suspected illegal wildlife activities to the nearest offices of Zimbabwe Parks and Wildlife Management Authority, Zimbabwe Republic Police and other Government law enforcement agencies.
”E. Chidziya, Director-General”
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CHRIS NORMAN – A TRUE SOUTH AFRICAN HERO
At this present time of intensified horrific Islamic terrorist attacks in France (which will be commented about more fully in next month’s SCN) it should not be forgotten that these and the earlier Charlie Hebdo atrocities were not the only acts of Islamic terrorism which France has endured this year.
On 23rd August 2015 a terrorist outrage was attempted on board the Amsterdam to Paris train, but the Islamic terrorist involved was overpowered by three brave fellow-passengers before he could open fire or detonate his explosives as intended. Newspaper reports at the time stated that the three brave heroes comprised two American servicemen and a British IT consultant by the name of Chris Norman – but Chris Norman was not British by birth, he was South African! He worked in the computer department at Unilever’s South African headquarters in Durban during the late 1970s, where this present writer was also working at the time. Although he was not known well, he did create the impression of being a very decent and hard-working person. He was however a fierce critic of the then National Party government of John Vorster, and seemed to detect that they were intent upon selling-out South Africa long before most other people seemed to realize this, and for this reason decided to relocate to his British ethnic homeland.
It is ironic in the extreme therefore that Chris Norman, having managed to escape the indignity of living under terrorist rule in South Africa, should subsequently find himself faced with a terrorist atrocity in another part of the world. Once again, furthermore, this saga emphasizes the fact that by kow-towing to the terrorist rulers of the “new” South Africa (as alas so many Western leaders have tended to do) this only encourages their fellow-terrorists in other parts of the world. Chris Norman seemed to have realized what was going to happen, and as a result of fate proved himself a true South African hero. We salute his courage.
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"P.K. VAN DER BYL - AFRICAN STATESMAN" by Hannes Wessels
ISBN: 978-1-920143-49-7 / paperback / illustrated
Retail price: R250.00, Web-site price: R200.00 + postage
The narrative gives the reader an overview of the history of the White man in southern Africa with detailed emphasis on the Rhodesian story through the life and times of PK van der Byl, one of the major players in a political drama that ended in the accession to power of Robert Mugabe under the auspices of the British government. By his very nature PK was controversial and confrontational. This account is likely to give offence to some because it portrays him as bluntly as he was in real life. Much can be contested about PK van der Byl but few will dispute he was an extremely colourful character with a devilish sense of humour. This memoir covers his life with a full flourish while doing nothing to detract from the seriousness of the international political and military conflict in which he was engaged. The reader will glean new information on a highly controversial subject and emerge with a more sympathetic understanding of what PK van der Byl and his colleagues did and strove for. The human tragedy that has followed the removal from power of Ian Smith and his Rhodesian Front party will almost certainly force the reader to deal with some uncomfortable conclusions, of value to anyone sincere about grappling with the volatile and deeply troubling challenges that confront all Africans today.
This book and others of interest can be purchased from 30 Degrees South via their web-site: www.30degreessouth.co.za
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"BLUE WATCH" by Gwyn Fford-Osborne
Rhodesia, in 1975 and a bloody vicious civil war is at its height. A war between the White minority supported by the Black majority and the ZAPU and ZANU terrorist groups, supported by Zambia and Mozambique. Kensington, a small town in the farming belt has been the subject of several terrorist attacks but with only a small police force for defence, the local T.A. unit having been called up for service on the Zambia border the situation appears grim. Until Iffor Meredith turns up on a pilgrimage to meet up with his wife and son of his old army buddy, recently murdered by terrorists. A deadly ambush on the "Dix" family and his escape from a land mine attack makes Iffor determined to offer resistance of some form or other to the terrorists. His application to join the Rhodesian Army has been accepted and he sets about forming a small militia. With all the fit men already on call up, who can he recruit from. Then he's invited to a darts match at the Moth Club and meets up with the remnants of the town's Fire Brigade, the men considered too old for call up. Blue Watch.
Available from: www.diadembooks.com
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CREST PUBLISHING BOOKS
The latest book published by Crest Publishing is entitled: “BOWLS - QUIRKS, CHIRPS AND ANECDOTES". This is not an instruction manual but rather a cheerful, humourous and sometimes controversial chronicle about the game and its history worldwide. Written to celebrate 40 years in the sport by the author, Glenn MacAskill, it should be of interest to all bowlers and other sports enthusiasts.
For more information about all books published, or to make an order, please contact Crest Publishing at: P.O.Box, 4178, Honeydew, Johannesburg, 2040, South Africa, e-mail: glennallanmacaskill@gmail.com, or visit the Crest Publishing web-site at: www.crestpublishing.co.za. Special discounts are available to ex-servicemen, Rhodies and Springboks!
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DVD available along with other premium titles of historical interest from Msasa Enterprises. Visit www.rhodesianvideos.co.za or write to msasasa@iafrica.com for more information. UK contact telephone: 07415 753 340.
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WHERE ARE THEY NOW ?
No.204 – Ms. BERNADETTE “BERNIE” TOUCHE of Durban
“Bernie” Touche was of French origins, and was a prominent member of the “Paul Roper set” in Durban (see SCNs passim). She alas suffered from a serious lisp which caused her to pronounce “R’s” like “W’s”. The story goes that she once applied for a job with the Rapid Results College in Durban, but when she heard that the position would entail answering the switchboard she quickly decided to turn the job down! It would be interesting to learn where she is now.
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RECOMMENDED WEB-SITE OF THE MONTH
At the present time when the whole of the West, particularly France, seems to be suffering an onslaught of Islamic terrorism, it is surely appropriate to remember that one Western nation has been experiencing such terrorist attacks continuously for the past seven decades – namely the State of Israel. It should also be remembered that the State of Israel was South Africa’s strongest and most reliable friend during the days of civilized rule – and this we will never forget. We have recently had a web-site dedicated to support for the State of Israel recommended to us entitled United with Israel, and this can be accessed at :-
http://unitedwithisrael.org/
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LETTERS TO THE EDITOR
TEST CASE
Sir,
Clive Rice was denied a Test career by the unjust and self-righteous boycott of South Africa. Nelson Mandela and others were able to continue their political careers after it was over. Surely this proves that the boycott was unfair?
While I was never in favour of forced apartheid, I would point out that a documentary about the late Basil D'Oliveira mentioned in passing that South Africa also had a non-White eleven. Surely this was at least mitigation?
Yours etc.,
Mark Taylor, London, U.K.
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SAYING IT LIKE IT IS
Sir,
I have often reminded that our real enemies were jihadists. Unfortunately we watch the slow death of Europe - refugees will seize European countries step by step. It is foolish to think they have come for a short time. Negroes and Muslims from Africa and the Middle East have come to Europe FOR EVER. Today Russians are not angry with European policy, our people watch madness of European leaders who are impotent to stop barbarian invasion to the heart of Europe. Putin will not touch Europe, but Negroes and Muslims will rape and rob European ladies, then their kids and then European men in the end. The American government does not intend to save Europeans, and European leaders are blind - they cannot see real enemy who has come to their houses already. They will not see Russian tanks in the streets of Paris and Berlin, they will face Black robbers and gangsters plus ISIL jihadists very soon.
We lose our forces in the Ukraine, both military and financial. This war and sanctions deflect European nations and Russians from our common purpose - the struggle against jihadists. Europe has very little time - if you do not stop the refugee invasion, masses of Negroes and Muslims will crush you. I hope the British will be the first nation that can change situation.
Yours etc.,
Boris Grig, Kaliningrad, Russia
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BURMA ROAD
Sir,
As the son of a Burma veteran I feel I should record my thoughts.
I have watched it all live on the BBC, that much maligned broadcaster, not always without due blame. However, their coverage of the 70th Anniversary of VJ Day was outstanding. No imbecilic presenters but the marvellous Kirsty Young and Richard Bacon who acquitted themselves without blemish. Both presented and interviewed with compassion and, may I say it, with pride. Also a special mention for the Bishop Nigel Stock at the service in St Martin's in the Fields who resisted the temptation to abase himself as others have done and told it as it should be told. Runcie's Falklands address was a disgrace and lots of others since only less so.
I shall never, ever forget the recitation in Horse Guards of the great Kipling's "The Road to Mandalay" by Charles Dance. The tears streamed down my cheeks. So much so I have determined to go there in March, God willing.
Yours etc.,
“Empire Loyalist”, Glasgow, U.K.
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HYMN OF PRAISE
Sir,
Thank you for this wonderful and news-filled edition [SCN, August 2015 – Ed.] - I thoroughly enjoy reading same, and am grateful in the extreme to all those who contribute to this Newsletter!
Long may it continue!
Yours etc.,
W.V., Durban, Natal, South Africa
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OBITUARY
JAMES “JIM” SLATER
Jim Slater, who sadly died earlier this month, was one of the most successful and visionary industrialists, financiers and investors of the latter half of the twentieth century. Born into a modest lower-middle-class family, and constantly suffering from poor health, Jim Slater was a self-made man who proved that the capitalist system was potentially to the benefit of everyone.
Having studied accountancy, and working his way up through the motor industry to become Deputy Sales Director of Leyland Motors, Jim Slater came to realise and recognise the many failings in British industry at the time, which had failed to appreciate the rapidly advancing technological revolution. During a period of recuperation from a bout of ill-health he decided to resign from Leyland Motors in order to found his own financing and investment company Slater Walker, in partnership with the future Conservative cabinet minister Peter Walker. The company flourished to an incredible degree, and although decried by both the “old guard” of the City of London and socialists alike for what they termed “asset stripping” (in reality recognising the inefficient and incompatible sides of companies and then selling them off to new more compatible businesses, thus increasing the profitability of both concerns) Slater Walker still became the most dynamic institution quoted on the London Stock Exchange at the time. As a result Jim Slater became something of a hate-figure to both the “old guard” and Harold Wilson’s Labour Party alike, and following the recession of the early 1970s Slater Walker were targeted for a number of dirty tricks. Although found guilty of a technical financial infringement Jim Slater was fined only a nominal £15, and a similar ridiculous attempt to have him deported to Singapore for trial on a trumped-up charge ended in failure. Alas the combined effects of this witch-hunt and the recession forced Slater Walker into liquidation, and as a result Jim Slater found himself a “minus millionaire”. This of course would have been the end of lesser men, but by some highly astute investments and a move into the property market he somehow managed to pay off his debts within twelve months, From then onwards Jim Slater concentrated upon property and investment advice (he had earlier written a highly successful investment advice column for the Sunday Telegraph appropriately under the pseudonym of “Capitalist”) – and incredibly also managed to write a couple of best-selling children’s books at the same time!
Although his business partner Peter Walker was an incurable Euro-enthusiast, Jim Slater himself became increasingly EuroSceptic as he grew older. He was a close personal colleague of Sir James Goldsmith (who founded the Referendum Party) and one of his sons stood as a UKIP candidate. Jim Slater’s greatest achievement was undoubtedly to re-activate the vibrant spirit of British industrialisation and entrepreneurship from the 18th and 19th centuries, and through the loyal and enthusiastic readership of his financial investment publications he has clearly energised a new generation of 21st century British entrepreneurs, who are already making their presence known.
Jim Slater was a great Briton, who alas was unjustly pilloried by little men and by socialists. Our sincerest sympathies are extended to his widow Helen and to his four children
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