Rover Moot: 1988 Report
Glencairn, Cape Town: National Rover Scout Moot
The National Rover Scout Moot was held over the Easter weekend (1 - 4 April) in Cape Town. The camp was set in the holiday coastal town of Glencairn, which is situated near the naval port of Simonstown.
The Natal Contingent consisted of 13 participants viz. 6 from Intaba, 5 from Ngomi and 2 from Squarelaw Rover Crews, with each Crew having to arrange their own mode of travel to Cape Town.
Friday evening marked the start of one of the highlights on the National Rover Calendar - The Moot - which is a gathering of Rover Scouts from throughout South Africa, held once every four years. On arrival each participant was as given the opportunity to make himself a camp woggle. This was followed by a social where tired participants were able to quench their thirst after the many hours of travelling. One would have assumed an early night was on the programme, but who was going to sleep early with all that sustenance around.
After a late night, it was rise and shine at 05h00. In spite of all the moaning, all participants were seated in our "Tour Buses" and ready to go by 06h00. It was jolly good fun to see all those "bellies" bobbing up and down as the bus made its way to Table Mountain. The camp was officially opened on the top of Table Mountain by the Chief Scout, South Africa - Mr Garnet de la Hunt.
From a rather chilly Table Mountain it was off to Kirstenbosch Gardens where a sumptuous breakfast was arranged. After that filling meal we took a walk around and observed one of South Africa's most beautiful gardens.
We were then taken to Hout Bay which is a little fishing town along the Cape Peninsula, where we took a boat cruise to Seal Island. The trip proved to be very interesting, but unfortunately not for our cameraman who felt sea sick. Then it was off to Groot Constantia where we were taken on a guided tour of the estate followed by some wine-tasting. The hectic day came to an end with a braai and social at the campsite.
The following morning commenced with Rovers Own Service and thereafter all Crews had to split up into three different bases, viz. Exploration at Kalk Bay Caves, Sailing at Sandvlei, Archery and Handicap Obstacle Course at Glencairn Campsite. After another tiring but enjoyable day, we were invited to a formal dinner, in uniform, to the Lakeside Rover Crew Base. The meal was absolutely delicious.
After a rather slow morning and "Operation Clean-up" it was time to bid farewell and exchange scarves. It certainly was a most thrilling experience for all our "Banana Boys" and will remain in our memory for a long time.
In conclusion, on behalf of the Natal Contingent, I would like to place on record our sincere thanks to Mr Ed Rose, as well as to all those Crews in Cape Western Area for making our stay an enjoyable one and we look forward to welcoming them to Durban for SARSI in 1990.
Dean Gounden : P.R.O., Intaba Rover Crew
On behalf of the Natal Contingent
From 'The Trail', 1988