The old Premier MIS crew - Where are they now ???

Happy 50th Birthday Charlie

2011-06-29T23:01:00.006+01:00

I just wanted to wish "Charlie" a very happy 50th birthday, it's amazing how time seems to have flown past, I joined Premier MIS back in January 1990 which is now 21 years ago, so Charles would have been 29 back then! Okay I think we need to stop the clock now.

Anyway Charlie hope you had an awesome birthday!

Lusito Land

2011-05-07T17:37:00.001+01:00

Well it was arranged that we would meet all the ex-prems at Lusito Land, the night before Sunday the 24th of April, the weather had not been good, hence we received some phone calls from friends saying: "Take your Wellies", "Not coming - rather stay in bed", well I guess when you have such fantastic weather in SA, the rain does make you want to stay home, but in Ireland alas we go out in all kinds of weather else you just miss out on Life.

But luckily we got to meet the most beautiful twins in the world, Thanks Trevor & Kirsten for bringing the twins out to meet us and to come and see us, it was lovely seeing you!!!

SAD NEWS

2011-02-15T08:13:00.001Z

Hi Everyone,

I heard this morning of the passing of Andre Barnard. He will be sadly missed as he was a wonderful friend and Colleague, here is the note I found on LinkedIn this morning.

Andre Barnard passed away on Thursday. For more info call his wife 0828959838

Will post some more later, if you would like to add any memories or notes about Andre, you can do so here and I will repost them.

Rose.

Trevor's Team

2011-01-06T21:13:00.000Z

Here are some photo's of Trevor's gorgeous boys one with Santa ...

Maria's Christmas at Hartebeespoort

2011-01-05T22:10:00.000Z

Hi Rose,

I am sure that you had a wonderfull white Christmas. Ours was not as traditional, but still very nice. My sister Carmen come from Spain and Johanna and family come from Ballito.

This year it was a small gathering of 10. Next year will have again all the family coming from all over the place.
These are the only photos I have at the moment, as I am waiting for Johanna to send me the photos taken with her camera.

In these photo, it is only me Michael and my grandkids Savannah and Bradley.

Love to all
Maria

Email & Photos from Sevesty

2011-01-05T22:04:00.000Z

Hallo to Everybody, especially for those that still remember me.

I am proud to announce that I have a new family member added to the Erasmus clan.

She is 3 months old, unexpected after 8 years.

I had to learn everything again from the start, whoever said that being a parent will be easy, lied.

Photos attached.

Shinique Cara Erasmus 3 months old

Xavier Erasmus 8 years old at Dads business.

Love Sevesty

Christmas 2010 from all the Ex-Premier Clan around the world

2010-12-28T10:30:00.004Z

Dalene & her family having Christmas in South Africa

Gerhard and Edith celebrate Christmas with Santa in Sunny South Africa

Along with Ina

Dave Jones daughter Alexa who celebrated Christmas away from their home town in California this year and spent it with family in the U.K. (Some more photos please Dave)

Christmas in Sydney Australia with Lawrence, Melina & Alex

A lovely compilation of photos from Sandy - Christmas in South Africa, thanks Sandy.

Under the Christmas Tree with Derrick & Emily in Ireland

Celebrating our first really White Christmas in IRELAND

Christmas with Lynn in the U.K.

Current Members of the Alumni

2010-11-17T07:47:00.001Z

Facebook

2010-11-07T00:30:00.001Z

Wow, I can't believe what a small world it is since Facebook arrived, in the last 2 days I have reunited with Dalene and Edith from MIS, Dalene suggested starting an alumni page, which I did - so if you are not on it yet please join.

Lynn's Visit to the Island of Ireland

2010-05-10T08:35:00.000+01:00

It was so nice to Lynn over in Ireland again, we worked out that she hadn't been over for 3 years which is not too bad, we probably need to go to the UK for a visit again.
Anyway Lynn arrived and we went and dropped Emily off at friends and we headed to the O2 for the Kiss concert, maybe Lynn will write something on her new blog for us to read about.

Then Saturday we picked up up, went to the park, had lunch at Milano's (really nice pizza), then off to Emily's dress rehearsals for her up coming concert and then home to chillax, wine, food and lots to talk about.

Sunday we took a drive to the top of the hill behind us, then we went to Powerscourt, which is a stately home in beautiful gardens that once belonged to Princess Fergies grandmother, from there we went to Marlay park and home for lunch, so nothing too strenuous but really nice and relaxing. All to soon it was time for Lynn to go, luckily she got here as flights had been cancelled 3 days prior due to Volcanic ash.

Congratulations Trevor & Kirsten

2010-04-18T20:07:00.001+01:00

Well Trev has finally become a daddy twice, yes Kirsten and Trevor had 2 boys on Friday the 16th of April 2010. Here is the message from Kirsten on Facebook:

Mathieu and Sebastien were born at 15:30. They were screaming their little hearts out and are doing well in the icu. Mathieu weighs 1.6 kgs and Sebastien 960 grams.

Kirsten has been in the Sandton Clinic for a while now, so they were delivered by C section on Friday. Her latest update on Facebook is:

A quick update on the boys...They have good healthy lungs and wriggle a lot. They are tiny but fighters and the paediatrician is really happy with their progress. I'm a bit sore after the c-section. but it's all worth it when they clutch your finger. :-)

Well done to you both!

1940 was a Good Year.

2010-04-17T08:11:00.000+01:00

HAPPY 70TH BIRTHDAY INA

1940 was the year of the 2nd world war began, and a lot of other good stuff came out of the 1940's - Ernest Hemmingway wrote "For whom the Bell Tolls".

In April of 1940, the following import events happened in History:

Tuesday 09:

World War II: Germany invades Denmark and Norway.

Sunday 14:

Royal Marines land in Namsos, Norway, occupying key points, preparatory to a larger force arriving two days later.

Monday 15:

The Allies start their attack on the Norwegian town of Narvik which was occupied by Nazi Germany.

Wednesday 17:

Ina Verster is born and you know what they say about Wednesday's child - "Wednesday's child is full of Woe", which is not true at all.

Tuesday 23:

A fire at a dance hall in Natchez, Mississippi kills 198 people.

Thursday 25:
The Faroese flag Merkið is made the official flag for the Faroe Islands.

What Other Events Happened in 1940

U.S.
•Franklin D. Roosevelt wins the election and becomes the United States' first third-term president.

U.S.
•Selective Training and Service Act signed into law as first peacetime military draft in United States history

U.S.
•40-hour working week goes into effect

U.S.
•The Narrows Suspension Bridge Collapses at Tacoma, Washington

U.S.
•Armistice Day Blizzard kills 154 in Midwest

UK
•Churchill was appointed Prime Minister and formed an all-party government

U.S.
•Race Riots in Chicago, Harlem, Los Angeles and Detroit

Mexico
•Leon Trotsky the Russian revolutionary is assassinated in Mexico

U.S.
•Life magazine costs 10 cents

U.S.
•Nylon Stockings go on sale

UK
•RMS Queen Elizabeth - entered service

And Ina you share your year of birth with some very famoust people such as:

Born in 1940
John Lennon October 9th
Manfred Mann October 21st
Percy Sledge November 25th
Richard Pryor December 1st
Jeffrey Archer April 15th -- London, England
Mario Andretti February 28th -- Motovun
Frankie Avalon September 18th -- Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, U.S.
Peter Fonda February 23rd -- New York City, New York, U.S.
John Gotti October 27th -- The Bronx, New York City, New York, U.S.
John Hurt January 22nd -- Shirebrook, Derbyshire, England
Tom Jones June 7th -- Pontypridd, Wales, UK
Ted Koppel February 8th -- Lancashire, England,
Bruce Lee November 27th -- San Francisco, California, U.S.
Jack Nicklaus January 21st -- Columbus, Ohio, U.S.
Chuck Norris March 10th -- Ryan, Oklahoma, United States
Al Pacino April 25th -- East Harlem, Manhattan, U.S.
Nancy Pelosi March 26th -- Baltimore, Maryland, U.S.
Gene Pitney February 17th -- Hartford, Connecticut, USA
Cliff Richard October 14th -- Lucknow, United Provinces, British India
Smokey Robinson February 19th -- Detroit, Michigan, U.S
Martin Sheen August 3rd -- Dayton, Ohio, USA
Nancy Sinatra June 8th -- Jersey City, New Jersey, United States
Clive Sinclair July 30th -- Richmond, Surrey, UK
Ringo Starr July 7th -- Dingle, Liverpool, England

Popular Films
•Walt Disney's animated film Pinocchio is released together with Fantasia
•The Great Dictator, starring Charlie Chaplin

Popular Music
•"Careless" Glenn Miller
•"I'll Never Smile Again " Tommy Dorsey with Frank Sinatra
•"In the Mood " Glenn Miller
•"Pennsylvania 6-5000 " Glenn Miller
•"Only Forever" Bing Crosby

So really this post is to wish Ina a wonderful 70th Birthday for Saturday the 17th of April, hope you had a wonderful birthday!!!!

MIS Melodrama's

2009-12-30T17:27:00.000Z

Does anyone have copies of the Melodrama Videos that were taken over the years? If you do there are so many people looking for copies perhaps we can get it put onto DVD and even loaded up to a private youtube url for everyone to see.

Merry Christmas from Mark V in India

2009-12-28T10:18:00.001Z

I saw Mark's photos on India in Facebook and asked him if I could put some up on the blog, but out of 168 photos it was so difficult to choose a few, so if you are linked to Mark on facebook it is worth going to have a look at the photos. Mark, maybe you can send some verbiage to the photos I have added here:

India is on my list of place to see before I die, since seeing these photographs.

Merry Christmas from Lynn & Zoey

2009-12-28T09:58:00.000Z

Lynn posted some nice snowy, christmassy photos on facebook for us all to enjoy.

Merry Christmas from The Rowes In Ireland

2009-12-18T20:01:00.002Z

Christmas Message from Dave in California

2009-12-18T07:56:00.000Z

Blue Ribbon

2009-09-16T22:04:00.000+01:00

I took these photo's in Disneyland and have been meaning to add them to the blog, so I thought I had better do that before I forget once again.

New Additon to the ex Premier family

2009-09-13T21:43:00.003+01:00

In all my excitment with our trip, I forgot to mention Mark Vuurman. It just so happened that Mark I think googled Premier Milling and came across the Premier Blog. Mark worked in Networks with Mario, Melony, Lawrence and Gavin, it just happened that Mark left about a year and a bit after I joined Premier. Anyway to cut a long story short Mark has been emailing me and it also on Facebook for those of you who are not linked to him yet, and is off on a 3 month stint in India, he may have left already I am not sure. So Mark please keep us updated and send us some photos of India would love to see what it looks like. For those of you who want to get in contact with Mark email me and I will send you his email address.

Here is the first or 2nd email I received from Mark:

Sent: Wednesday, June 24, 2009 12:12 AM

To: "Rose-Marie Rowe"
Subject: Re: Mark - Mario

Hi Rose,

My surname is Vuurman. I worked in the network department with Lawrence, Gavin, Mario, Riaaz and Melony. I remember derrick well. Seems as though a lot of us left SA. Whereabouts are you these days?
I haven't been back to SA since I left.

Anyway, I enjoyed my time at Premier, it was definately like a family to me as well. I remember Lawrence and Melina's wedding, also Gavin and Edwina's and Mario's too. I remember you being on the Oceanos, I remember the premier talent show and being conned into a couple of performances. I remember the "Chip Inn" and getting rather tippsy, and being part of the social club orginising a couple of outings, one being the day at the motor races(which i saw some pictures of on the site).....the list goes on.

Mark has been living in Auckland and Melbourne for the last 10 years.

Jozi, South Africa

2009-08-30T11:46:00.003+01:00

Every time we go home to SA we try and hook up with some of our friends from Premier, this time was no exception, however this time we managed to see people we don't normally see. I saw Mario for the first time since 1999 when I bumped into him while doing Y2K testing for the SABC, so it was 10 years, longer for Derrick it was the first time we met his beautiful wife Paula as well.

Trevor and Kirsten were at my Stork party back in 2003 which is the last time I saw them, it was so good to see you guys.

Charlie, Charlie, Charlie yep got to say it three times, it was good to see you also long time since we last saw you, I think it was back in 2000 when Ken & Jean came over for a holiday.

To all the other Premier friends I spoke to on Facebook or the phone sorry we did not get to see you, Karen, Melony, Maria and everyone else hopefully next time - so make a date for 2 years time. By the way we had lots of fun and catching up at Cobblestones, thanks for all coming!!!

Perth, Australia

2009-08-30T11:37:00.004+01:00

When I joined Premier MIS, I was in the Qpac team (still not sure why it was called the Q poke team, reckon it must have something to do with Facebook) anyway, there were only two girls on the team Maria and Zelda, we were all good friends and a brilliant team. Zelda is now in Perth and the last time I saw Zelda was back in 1999, I had the privilege of spending time with Zelda in 1998 on my first trip to Oz.

It was say good to see Zellie again, we had a Braai at their house and I got to meet Reece for the first time, who is a beautiful young boy. Then on our last day, Zelda generously fetched us from the house we were renting in Freemantle and took us back to her place for dinner and then to the airport. Thank you Zelda.

Sydney, Australia

2009-08-30T11:13:00.004+01:00

If there is one thing that we should be thankful to Premier for is for helping us acquire the skills that we may work in any country in the world. If I see how far and wide everyone has gone it just goes to prove that we were a clever bunch of IT people. Another thing we have to be thankful for, was the fact that we worked with wonderful people that we can all be friends today in one way or another.

Whilst on our travels, all our Premier friends showed us such generosity that it was overwhelming, Lawrence, Melina and Alex picked us up form our hotel and took us the the Wildlife park, and then to lunch at Waga Mama, we then did some sight seeing and went back to their beautiful home for dinner, after which Lawrence dropped us off at the hotel. Emily took a shine to Alex (a bit old for her), but she got her fair share of meeting different boys.

Thanks L, M and A for a wonderful time in Sydney, it is still one of my favourite cities.

Auckland, New Zealand

2009-08-30T09:39:00.004+01:00

Its' amazing how some people come into your life for always, I have known Daryl and Dion since they were kids running around at Sunday School across the road from where I lived.
It was so good to catch up with Daryl after almost 6 years, the last time we saw him, Emily was just born. Although we were only in Auckland for 5 days, we saw Daryl four out of the five days. I think Daryl had just as much fun showing us around his city as we did. Thanks for an amazing time Daryl and I hope we get over again someday!

California

2009-08-30T09:38:00.000+01:00

When we were planning our trip, we never took into account that we would meet up with so many of our ex premier colleagues, it just turned out that way. The original round the world ticket that seemed the most exciting was LA-Tahiti-Fiji-Auckland-Sydney-Perth-Johannesburg-London-Dublin. So when I told our told everyone our plans it was amazing how we managed to meet up. Pete, next time I promise we will do a cruise from Houston!

We had a fantastic time in LA, 3 days in Disney, a day at Sea World in San Diego, a day at Universal studios and of course a Braai at Dave, Amy and Alex. It was so amazing catching up after all those years, the last time we saw Dave was in 1997 and it felt like just yesterday.
Amy had made the most wonderful salads and really made us feel at home, Emily had fun with Alex and all too soon we had to leave. So lets just hope it isn't another 12 years till we see Dave again.

Premier People around the world

2009-08-16T20:52:00.003+01:00

D and I have had the immense privilege of meeting up with some old friends, ex Premier people around the world, we saw Dave in California, Daryl in New Zealand, Melina & Lawrence in Sydney and Zelda in Perth. On Friday at Cobblestones Pub, we will meet some more old friends and I will write a longer post about our trip soon and what everyone is up to.

The Rowe Itinerary

2009-06-09T20:28:00.004+01:00

In just over 3 weeks time, the Rowes will be following the Sun in a westerly direction towards South Africa, stopping in at a few places on the way. We are hoping to catch up with as many of our Premier friends as possible and then I will have loads of stories and pictures to put up on the blog.

Here is our itinerary:

02 Jul 06:40 08:05 DUBLIN, IRELAND (DUB) LONDON, UNITED KINGDOM (LHR)
02 Jul 12:00 15:05 LONDON, UNITED KINGDOM (LHR) LOS ANGELES, UNITED STATES (LAX)
08 Jul 23:00 04:30 LOS ANGELES, UNITED STATES (LAX) PAPEETE, FRENCH POLYNESIA (PPT)
16 Jul 07:00 11:00 PAPEETE, FRENCH POLYNESIA (PPT) AUCKLAND, NEW ZEALAND (AKL)
22 Jul 12:25 13:55 AUCKLAND, NEW ZEALAND (AKL) SYDNEY, AUSTRALIA (SYD)
26 Jul 12:00 15:05 SYDNEY, AUSTRALIA (SYD) PERTH, AUSTRALIA (PER)
04 Aug 23:50 05:45 PERTH, AUSTRALIA (PER) JOHANNESBURG, SOUTH AFRICA
26 Aug 20:15 06:20 JOHANNESBURG, SOUTH AFRICA (JNB) LONDON, UNITED KINGDOM (LHR)
27 Aug 09:50 11:10 LONDON, UNITED KINGDOM (LHR) DUBLIN, IRELAND (DUB)

So far the plan is to see Daryl in Auckland, New Zealand, Lawrence & Melina in Sydney, Zelda in Perth, oh yes and Dave in California, and as many as possible in Jo'burg.

Mario & Family

2009-06-09T20:26:00.002+01:00

London

2009-02-26T17:05:00.003Z

Happy 60th Birthday Maria

2009-02-23T17:16:00.003Z

It was Maria's 60th birthday on the 10th of Feb and she told me she had a wonderfull surprise party at La Vincenca restaurant in Kyalami.

Here is a picture of Maria, Carol and Ina at the party, Gwen was missing because she was travelling and of course me as I am here.

Christmas 2008

2008-12-27T10:25:00.002Z

Christmas News from Di & Ian at the Sation House

2008-12-27T09:39:00.003Z

We wish you all a very Merry Christmas and a peaceful, happy, healthy and prosperous 2009, wherever you are.

It is hard to believe that is again that time of year to catch up with old friends and to reminisce over the past year’s activities before yet another year comes around. The year started off well with us hosting friends and family at a sundowner party on our expanded patio early in January. What a pleasure to be able to entertain in our renovated home! The sad part was that it was also a farewell ” in January to Di’s sister Hilary who returned to Sydney as well as yet more friends from Johannesburg leaving SA - this time ”packed for Perth”.

Late in January, we drove down to Umhloti, on the coast north of Durban, to collect our new Ridgeback puppy. She was then 2 months old. What a gorgeous pup she was – brown with wheaten beige markings and a lovely black muzzle. Tessa started playing happily with Cindy, who was very wary of this little terror. It was not long though before they became firm friends. Cindy has always stayed around the house so it was natural that Tessa followed suit. They love being taken for walks, but when we go out, they stay home and wait on the patio for our return!! Tessa is now a big girl of a year, weighing over 40kgs which means she dominates Cindy who is somewhat sleeker. But our cat Zazu has never been happy when Tessa tries to play with him! Tessa still sleeps in the bathroom at night which gives Cindy peace and quiet in her “laundry bedroom”. Tessa’s favourite activities are playing with whoever’s dogs are around, wading and swimming in the dam as well as chasing buck and scrub hares. Other loves include eating and sleeping!

Di and her mother Chris “deserted” Ian for a month to go to Sydney to visit Hilary. A three night break en route in Dubai on the way was great – each day had something different to experience - apart from the shopping of course. The first day was spent on a city tour learning so much of the history of Dubai which is such a young but vibrant and fast developing city. The next afternoon was spent driving out to the desert. Chris had to sign an indemnity form as no-one over 65 is supposed to go on these trips. The dune bashing, camel riding (see the photo as proof!), dinner in a Bedouin tent, with a belly dancing show thrown in too, under the stars, was just magic. The henna painted hands were still very much evident for the first few days in Sydney.

Luckily Di got to “cat sit” a beautiful white Persian in a unit below Hilary’s 2 bedroom unit for the whole 4 weeks. It worked out well for all concerned – especially Bianco who did not have to go into a kennel!

Sydney was wonderful especially for Di who got to spend quite a lot of time with some “old” friends – all who worked together for a long time at Premier Foods. Those were the best of days!! She had not seen them for varying lengths of time – from 12 to 18 years. No-one looked any older but how everyone’s lives have changed over the years.

Our winter was surprisingly mild this year with the grass remaining green until August when it finally turned brown. This caused problems with the mandatory burning of fire breaks and the long grass since it was not dry enough. This should have been done by mid July. But we will not be complaining if the temperature is more temperate again next year!! The road to our house finally got repaired which is wonderful. Our garden is still undergoing reconstruction – it is an ongoing project. There are now more evergreen shrubs and conifers planted which bodes well for the coming winter. The roses are growing well this year - the balls of Di’s hair that have been tied onto each rose bush have kept the buck away! It is a “strange but true” method – and an easier solution than spraying them daily with lion’s pee!!

Twice this year, Ian took a few days break to go to Bivane Dam with the Johannesburg fishing club in April and then again in October with 5 fishing friends. He enjoys getting away for a few days with the guys. We drove up to Johannesburg with Ian’s mother Ena to see his daughter Fiona’s new townhouse and to celebrate her 26th birthday over that same weekend. How the city has expanded. It has got busier, more crowded and there is development everywhere - hard to believe that we had only left 2 years before. We enjoyed the 3 nights with family and friends but were pleased to be home in peaceful, rural Mooi River again!

The biggest surprise this year was the beautiful snow in late September. It fell solidly throughout day. Being a Saturday, we had guests in the cottage who were delighted as it was one of their daughter’s birthdays – it is one she will remember for quite some time. The percentage rate of occupation for our cottage has continued to increase – and long may that last. Ian spent quite a bit of time doing some much needed maintenance work on both the inside and the outside. We upgraded some pieces of furniture and some furnishings as well. Numerous guests are return visitors which is very gratifying. It is a pleasure and privilege to have guests who love the relaxed atmosphere and stunning surroundings.

This year we again entered the local fishing competition but we took home no prizes. Maybe it was a good thing, considering the results of the past 2 years. Ian managed to catch a 1kg fish but Di nothing. The wind was strong on a partly cloudy day. Ian had battled to catch fish over the previous weeks so it was not surprising that less than 30 fish were caught by the 120 odd anglers. Tessa decided to swim out to the boat to help! The fishing has been variable all year. At the end of last season fish were very active feeding up before winter. Ian could catch up to 10 1 - 1.5kg fish in a couple of hours. Water Affairs pumped lots of water to Midmar Dam downstream (ultimately a source for Durban), during winter so the spawn in spring wasn’t that great. Since then it has gradually got worse. With lots of rain lately, the dam is nearly full albeit a bit muddy.

There has still not been a record bass caught. The biggest caught this season? 2.5kg.
We celebrated our 15th wedding anniversary this month. Hilary has arrived for Christmas from Sydney. We drove to Durban to fetch her; the first time there since moving here. We plan a more relaxed visit for her this year, more restful than her last few months at home. So if you are going to be in KZN, please let us know. We would love to spend time with you in our own little piece of SA paradise.

Ian and Diana Cawley Email: stationhouse at yebo.co.za
Tel/Fax: +27 (33) 263-2501 Web: www.wheretostay.co.za/stationhouse
Address: Station House, Off R103, between Rosetta and Mooi River, KwaZulu Natal Postal: P O Box 179, Rosetta, 3301, South Africa

Merry Christmas from the Rowes

2008-12-25T10:11:00.000Z

To all our friends and family, we would like to wish you a very merry Christmas and all the best for 2009.

It's amazing how another year has crept past so quickly, yet so much has happened, this has been both a trying year and indeed a very successful year for us, we have lost dear friends but have made some new ones.

The year did not get off to a very bright one, and in February my new boss who never really liked me offered me a voluntary redundancy, anyway to cut a very long story short I was absolutely devastated, although I should have seen it coming as every other person who had worked with me before he arrived, had left either by him convincing them that there was no position in the company for them or by just not renewing their contract.

It was absolutely amazing how my friends rallied around me offering me sound advice, and just being there for me. People who have been around for the past 7 years, I got really ill as well and got the worst bout of bronchitis since I gave up smoking 3 years ago. Anyway after loads of discussions with the Director I left the company at the end of June.

In March we went over to the UK on the ferry, decided to spend a week and see old friends, we saw Eric and Margaret who I had met in Australia in 1998 and had not seen them for 10 years, I had been promising them I would visit, Eric who was 82 had been diagnosed with Emphysema and actually passed away a few months later, so it was all part of the big plan for us to see him before he passed on. We also stayed with Guy & Wendy and had snow, since then they have parted company after 10 years but are still good friends. We saw the city of Bath which was amazing, and saw my half sister who is now 88 and her family in Manchester.

In April we went to the Isle of Man, which was very different.

Then in May by sister Irene came over for a holiday, it was a bit of a stressful time for me as I was on Garden leave, trying to pack up house and just in general unsure of what was going to happen to us. However I managed to spend some time with her and we got to see a few places, she also flew over to Manchester and Edinburgh.

Before Irene arrived we had to find a house to buy as there was no way that the bank would give us a mortgage for what we wanted if I was not working, we looked at loads of places and some I was keen on and Derrick wasn't and vice verso. Eventually some time in April we came across the house we are in now, I can't say we fell madly in love with it, but we decided it was the most practical and nicest house we had seen, and best of all it had lovely views of the Dublin / wicklow mountains from the back and was not over looked. So the process began and we got the keys for the house on the beginning of July. Emily was at summer camp for 2 weeks so I could get all the cleaning done and we could move over slowly.

My adoptive mother Irene S. came over in July and gave us a helping hand with the move, we had the worst summer in Ireland as it rained practically every day, and trying to move with the rain is just a bit of a nightmare. Irene was such a help as we had furniture delivered and when I could not be in two places at one time she was there to help out. We finally had the place looking like home and moved in. Irene went off to do some more travelling and a week later D's folks arrived from SA.

We had booked to go to Croatia in January that year, not knowing what was going to be ahead of us, and the tickets & accommodation were paid for so there was no way we were not going to have the holiday, besides by the time the holiday came around I really deserved it and was looking forward to 2 solid weeks of Sunshine, away from the miserable Irish weather, which we got!

We were in Croatia for 2 weeks from the beginning of August and we all loved it, the accommodation was perfect we were across the road from the beach and could go down anytime and swim. We did loads of sight seeing and decided it is on the list of places to go back to.

We were barely back in Ireland when D's folks left to go back to SA, and 2 weeks later Emily started her first day of school. D's folks were a huge help to us and his mom sewed on practically every label on Emily's school uniform.

While we were away on holiday in Croatia, I got a call from a company who wanted me to come and work for them on a contract basis, however they wanted me to have my own company as that way they would not have to get the approval of a headcount from their global head office. So I looked into starting my own company and got all the paper work together and got that off, so that is how Rowe Consultants was born, I decided on the name, so that if D decided at a later stage he wanted to consult he would not have to open his own company but could just work for me ;-) !!!

I put together my first business proposal ever and sent it into the company and it was accepted, so I started working there the middle of September, the great thing is I get to set my own hours (most of the time), so I work from 8 - 1 or 1:30 and then pick up Emily from school and take her home, it all works out well, at the moment anyhow.

The last couple of months have been pretty hectic, with work, school, etc.

Emily is doing very well at school and her teacher is surprised at her ability to learn Irish as neither D nor I speak Irish, she is apparently very good. I think or should I say I hope that she has a flare for languages as she has already learned a bit of Spanish from "Dora the explorer" and can count to 8 in Spanish. I do hope she decides to either to Spanish or French at school.

Her swimming is also coming along really well and the teacher said she may be able to take off the arm bands after Christmas. She participated in her class concert that we went to see, and yesterday at the Christmas Church service at St. Bartholomew's Church in Ballsbridge, she came in holding a candle. Hopefully next year she will be part of the choir as she has such a wonderful voice.

We went to quite a few concerts this year, Def Leppard in Belfast which was amazing! Derrick saw a few of his and then we saw, Swan Lake at the Gaiety and the South African production of the Magic Flute which too was absolutely brilliant. We saw Bruce Springsteen at the RDS what a man!

The best was however Amy's Angel at the Olympia in which Emily took part both as a ballerina and singing. Emily is really talented and loves the Drama, singing and also enjoys painting and drawing.

On Sunday we are going to see the pantomime Cinderella and that will be the concerts for this year, however we already have a few tickets lined up for next year as well as a trip to London on the 14th of February, to meet up with Gwen on the 17th who is coming over for a few days. So folks I have probably left out a whole lot of stuff that we did this year but I am sure that this is the just of it.

Hope you all have a wonderful Christmas and looking forward to catching up with you all. May 2009 be happy, healthy and prosperous for us all!

Lots of LoveRED

xoxoxox

Merry Christmas from Dave

2008-12-19T20:12:00.002Z

We're enjoying a white Christmas here in the Pacific Northwest. Aimee's mom and dad's house has been inundated with about 6-8 inches of snow so it looks like a real winter wonderland here.

Have a great 2009!

With love,Dave, Aimee, and Alexa

New Beginnings

2008-11-12T08:19:00.004Z

Hi Everyone,

Not sure if you would have seen Dave's comment on his email, so I thought I would do a post and just let you know that Dave has started his own company: Here is his comment -

Was browsing the site again and thought I'd add that I have started my own company doing internet retail.

You can check out the website at http://LotsaCoolGoodies.com

Cheers,
Dave

Dave, I will put the link on my Oceanos website as well, as that gets over a hundred hits a day, by the way I too opened my own company but as a consultant, I do want to get into the internet world as well, but will do that when I am not working. Also on another note, Discovery channel from California contacted me, and they sent out a team of guys from the UK to interview me for a programme on Discovery Channel, will probably be aired over Christmas time, it is called: "Against the elements".

Email from Trev ... (Edited)

2008-09-16T21:46:00.006+01:00

(It was so nice to get a message on facebook from Trevor, I know we are all so caught up with our own lives that there just isn't time for anything else anymore, but it is so good to hear about old friends and especially as Premier MIS was more like a family to me than a job, I think we all thought those days would last forever, here is an email from Trev).

Yes it has been that long (was chatting to Trev on facebook and told him that it is over 5 years since I last spoke to him) - I was reminded just how long when I saw those pictures from the picnic at Golden Harvest or something was it? I was just had to look twice at the slim figure before Kirstin's fine cooking skills took over... (I think a lot of us have had a similar problem) Haven't been too good at cutting out the beer though, and as for exercise - me???

How much 'news' is good for the blog? I don't really want to go into every detail, but I did leave Premier about 15 years ago and seem to have done lots of stuff since then.

I bump into Nic Poni (Standard Bank) every other year or so, and also came across Tony Mathews at SARS a while back. I must admit to have neglected contact with Kenny, but I did meet up with Mike Reilly last year. I have also been in contact with Rob Lloyd - the two of us spent a week together on a project in Mafikeng a year ago.

Still no kiddies for us - still think I'm too young, but Kirstin has given me an ultimatum for next year. There have to be appropriate presents under the tree for Christmas 2009.

Just to make a small correction. I did buy Tony's house in Midrand, but it was more like 1995 or 1996 - by 2000 I was already remarried and living in Gallo Manor after my ex evicted me... but that's a whole other story for another time.

Trev.

Email from Ina ...

2008-09-16T18:42:00.000+01:00

HI ROSE,

MY GOD YOU REALLY HAVE KEPT ALL THOSE PHOTOS YOU USE TO TAKE, WELL IT BRINGS BACK PLEASANT MEMORIES, AND TO SEE ALL THOSE FAMILIAR FACES, WHAT A LOVELY EXPERIENCE, THERE IS EVEN PHOTOS OF ME, AND THEY DON’T LOOK AS BAD AS I REMEMBER THEM, NOW I CAN REALLY SEE HOW I HAVE AGED OVER THE PAST 15-16 YEARS, GO FOR IT PLACE THEM ON THE BLOG.
KEEP WELL SEND MY LOVE TO D AND E.
MISS U LOTS
INA

Kind Regards,

Ina Verster

Email from Charlie

2008-09-16T18:39:00.000+01:00

No problem, Shame why deny the worlds women access to a couple of 80's Chippendales!

Email from Dave ...

2008-09-16T18:38:00.000+01:00

No problem for me.

Not sure Kenny and Charlie will want their bare torsos splashed all over the Internet though!!! Then again depending on how they look now they may enjoy the proof of the good old days!How are you guys doing?

Thanks for all the updates and emails, I do check out the blogs whenever you send out the updates and do appreciate all you do to keep everyone informed. How's the new house coming along btw? I saw the pictures and it looks like a really nice place; I'm sure you're all a lot happier now that you are in your own place.

Aimee, Alexa and I are all doing well. Alexa is 7 months old today and it is hard to believe it has gone by so quickly. I'm still gainfully unemployed but I am in the process of setting up my own company and will be looking at doing some things on the Internet. Of course the timing might be a bit off given the state of the economy right now so we'll have to see how it all pans out.

Take care and thanks again for all the updates.
Cheers,
Dave

Email from Karen

2008-09-16T18:37:00.000+01:00

Hi RoseHi Derek Wowwee..... you keeping my brains active... this is call back the past stuff...Looks like lots of fun!!!! You must be having great time going thru old photos - . Are you scanning them onto your pc?

Old Prems

2008-09-16T18:32:00.002+01:00

I thought I must let you all know that I now have 23 ex MIS people on my mailing list that is excluding Derrick and Myself and Melony & Dion who I am in touch with via facebook, so there are a total of 27 people kept updated! Sandy got my email address from Di and Gavin got hold of me as well! It's great keeping in touch and I hope everyone will send me some news.

A pub night in '93 or '94

2008-09-16T18:08:00.005+01:00

Dion & Derrick
Dion, Zelda & Derrick - I'm sure you weren't allowed to smoke in the computer room...

Who is the guy with the beard next to Carol?

Carol & Tebo
Tebo, Melina, Bee & Di
Dion in the Computer Room

Maria, Zelda, Bee & Ken
Maria, Ken, Zelda, Vic & Deidre
Carol & Vic
Zelda & Bee
Tebo & Bee

The "Charkens"

2008-09-16T17:44:00.002+01:00

Thought that was quite a good name for you guys, the chip'ndales would be envious! What was it Strip darts you were playing?

Christmas 1993 - Alberton

2008-09-16T17:26:00.007+01:00

Rochelle & Nick Carol, Maureen & Guim

Disco - I can see loads of faces there that are familiar!
Melina, Lawrence, Karen & Mike Maria, Adrian & Carol.

Gwen & Sandy
Gwen & Daryl
Andre, Deidre, Alan, Karen, Mike.
Amanda & Ina
Derrick, Gwen & Jay
Carol - Thebo
Maria
Rose
Dave showing us his wares ...

Murder Dinner at Maria's in Pecanwood

2008-09-11T08:44:00.003+01:00

Some Adhoc photos

2008-09-11T08:25:00.004+01:00

Charles & Ken
Nick & Trevor
Moi at my desk in Birdhaven
Springday 1995 in Birdhave, how many people do you recognise?
The Old Qpac Team must have been taken about 1992

Christmas 1994

2008-09-09T15:40:00.007+01:00

Johan, Vic, Edith, Di & Alan Love Birds! Daryl, Mario, Riaz & Melony. Ina & Maria. Charles, Pete, Pierre, Lucia & Carol. Johan, Guim, Vic, Di & Alan. Mr TT Gwen, Bee & Carol. Vic (I think that was the Christmas party in 1992 at the Greek Taverna in Melville). Bee. Lawrence - Business as usual!

Does anyone remember the name of the restaurant, I think it was in Orange Grove, on Louis Botha Avenue (which is probably not Louis Botha anymore). - Charlie informed me it is still Louis Botha and the restaurant was called : The Radium Beer Hall

Updates from Pete and Pierre

2008-09-08T17:24:00.001+01:00

I noticed that both Pete & Pierre have added some new photographs to their blogs, have a look at:
http://the-bayous.blogspot.com/
and
http://serksnews.blogspot.com/

Lynn's Summer BBQ

2008-08-01T09:28:00.005+01:00

Lynn invited us to a BBQ at the beginning of July but unfortunately we were in the process of moving house, we would have loved to have been there as Melina and Lawrence were out from Oz, definitely next time and Lawrence & Melina we will see you next year August in Oz if you are around!

Here are the photos that Lynn took at her BBQ.

Hi Gavin

2008-07-31T15:47:00.001+01:00

It's always so nice to get a message from anyone regarding the Premier blog, and when it is from someone new it's even nicer. For those of you who check the Guest Book you will see that Gavin Dankworth left a message, thanks Gavin and I hope you will send us some pictures to update the blog soon!

Lawrence's Photos

2008-07-31T15:06:00.001+01:00

I asked Lawrence if I could hi-jack some of his photos from his facebook for the blog and he happily obliged. Lawrence may have to tell us when they were all taken!

You made me laugh Maria

2008-03-30T23:05:00.003+01:00

A real South African Braai in the Snow and all ...

2008-03-22T15:16:00.000Z

On Thursday Guy had been down in Bournemouth and had gone to a South African shop and got all kinds of SA goodies for the braai, then on Friday after he dropped us off he went to pick up a whole lot of Boerewors from somewhere else.

From the time we woke up it had started sleeting on and off, so instead of walking up the co-op, I got a ride in Wendy's new sports car, her Opel Tigra or as they say in the UK vauxhall.

Paula and Kathleen were the first to arrive at 2:00pm and Em again was so pleased to have a play mate, they had not seen each other for 2 years but it was like they were only apart a day.

The whole evening was absolutely brilliant, Guy made the best braai ever (besides my husband), Lynn and her brother came round and it was so great to see Lynn, we saw her last in July last year when she popped over to Ireland for Em's 4th birthday party. It was great catching up. We ate and drank far too much especially as we had to be up early to leave for Holyhead to get our ferry back to Dublin.

Meeting up with Ken in London

2008-03-21T15:04:00.001Z

We woke up early on Easter Friday as we had planned to go into London and meet up with Jean & Ken and the girls. Guy dropped us off at the train station in Luton and we caught the train up to London, we planned to go to St. Paul's as Em had seen it in "Mary Poppins" and wanted to feed the birds, however she enjoys chasing them more than feeding them.

We got off somewhere close to St. Paul's and then took the tube to St. Paul's, by this time D and I were dying for a coffee so we went off to Nero's and while we were sitting there Ken phoned to say they were standing outside of St. Paul's. Off we went to meet them, it was so strange that although we had not seen them in 2 years it did not feel that long and they all still looked the same as we remembered them 2 years ago.

Em was in her element as she had some friends for a change. We went into St. Paul's not realising that they were having Easter service and prayers and of course there was no sight seeing, Em can not read so ignored the huge sign saying "SILENCE" until about 10 people in unison said ssshhh....

So from there we left and went to the Pizza place across the road for lunch, it was so great catching up with all the news and it was great just seeing them on their own for a change. After a really nice lunch, Jean had planned to go to the Museum of Natural History and of course Em would want to go with, so we all trekked off there.

I am so glad we went because it was really interesting, bar the fact that there must have been about 10,000 other people there, I will have to go over and meet Jean and go on a quiet day. I would love to see Tutankhamen's treasures and all the other exhibitions they have it was really really worthwhile.

We left at about 4:00 and headed back to the station to get the train back to Luton, we managed to get the express train so got back really quickly, Guy picked us up from the station and we all went home.

Em was in her element as Guy had made the most delicious Spaghetti Bolognaise this side of Italy. We drank and chatted and eventually went to bed round midnight.

Lynn flies the Premier flag once again

2008-03-08T20:49:00.002Z

CONGRATULATIONS LYNN!

Hi Rose,

Well, the deed is done and I have resigned from De La Rue and will be joining Premier Foods as a Senior Project Manager from May. I am really pleased as they are in the process of rolling out SAP to all the business.

Looking forward to seeing you soon
Love
Lynn

Some news from Karen

2008-03-08T20:47:00.002Z

Hi Rose
Hi Derek

Firstly a HUGE THANK YOU for all the effort and work on the blog.
Suppose some of us enjoy catching up on the past - and other wish to leave the pst behind.
I really apprecite all the effort you do .

On the home front......
been extra hot here last couple days - coming home in the car at 17:00 and the thermomenter says 30degrees!!!!
Not much exciting happening... just seem to be extra hectic.
Gert has been to Nambia border, Lesotho, Zambia, Malawi, Cape Town Swaziland, Mozambique all since mid jan to now. This was his 1st whole week = "at home" since jan - and this weekend he leaves for lesotho for a couple days. He has had so much to achieve - that has been rather busy - and I know that he has in march a zambia and CT trip to get done. I will be off to Malawi and Zambia - but waiting for his dates to be finalised(he needs to coordinate with others - whereas mine is our own office bookeeping) - so it could be march or april that I go for 2 weeks.
Kids also seem to have busy schedules. - Chris is in Matric - and I said at the beginning of year that he must make the most of the year - and enjoy everythinng as it is his last year at school. this wasnt the most wisest to have said........ he got himself involved in drama( not that we need anymore drama at home!!!) and they putting on a house play at the end of this month.... so has been lots of taxiing for practise. including weekends and nights etc etc. He made it to the 1st team hockey - so is chuffed with himself - they off on a tour to ct in april - so has also been extra hockey training,,,, and then he does cricket - which when is a game can go onto 19:00 (as it gets dark!!!) - now you wonder why I said it wasnt the most wisest to say "go for it this year"....... I have no idea when school work gets done.... he is average - but does needto put in work to pass - so occassionally i tentavively ask - how are the school marks/progress. Then he does most fri night scouts - and they wanting to do camps/hikes etc - which is good for the 16-18 to be on ther own and do hiking/camps for the weekend, without adult/parents - but i try and keep my heart hopeful that school marks will also be positive. and then there is the socialising!!!! so in a nutshell his schedule has been fulltime coordination of taxiing around - but as he optimisticlly sys after plays (end this month) he will have more time for studing.

Markus in Std 7 - and taller than me now. Its great news as no one can "borrow' my takkies anymore. this was often a borrowed item - as there were wet etc etc . He is tall for his age and there are about 5 in his grde that are this height. Many boys come up to his shoulder. Downside is that often he stoops as he "sticks out" and with the red hair is like a warning light!!! He has started the very stroppy stage... oh boy can be very frustrating sometimes with all the testosterone around!!!! We didnt time it exactly well in their ages - the older one is mostly out of this grumpiness and the younger one starts.... so we will have about 10 years of teenager battlezones in the house!!!! Markus in the 1st cricket team. He just loves cricket - and again its 2 days training and then matches on wed and sat. Wed games usually go until dark - and sat are from 8 - 15:30 - (orthey won/lost earlier) I am a "awful mom; as when get to watch game - wish that the 1 or other team is strong that they get it over quickly!!! He also does chess which he seems to love and do well in. NOt sure where he gets this from!!!
He enjoys the scouts as well - is quite a nice group of kids - about 30 in all - but what is great is that they have a bunch from each sort of age group - so that Markus's age group are about 6-9 kids - and they starting to enjoy being independant together.

We have had super hot days - but the garden really looking great. We have borehole water - so are able to water (when I remember) most evenings - so is lush and green... ok not like overseas green - but for africa stds is lush. When was out in magliesberg 3weeks ago - was amazed at how nice the bush looked. Really looks thick and lush. So nice to see it like it is. Gert went by car to Lesotho and Mozambique and swaziland - he also commented how wondeful it is in the veldt.
I remember that Feb and Nov were my worst months living in Munich - always grey and overcast = no snow etc etc. Somehow they seemed to me to be the worst months of winter. I loved your fog pictures. It must have been really eerie. That is something that we miss in africa is the defined seasons/weather.

Have a great weekend
and again - thanks for all the effort and time that you do invest in the blogs.

Cheers
Karen

Is Lynn going to work for Premier Again?

2008-02-21T21:16:00.003Z

Lynn has been for interviews with Premier in the UK, but as soon as I have the news from her I will phost it here, keep an eye out!

Old Photos

2008-02-21T21:05:00.005Z

I found these photos which were taken in Blythesdale on Christmas Day back in 1994, Daryl, Derrick, Dion, Myself and Melony spent the Christmas week-end down there!

Daryl's New Zealand

2008-02-21T20:42:00.011Z

Daryl is far too busy having fun to tell us about New Zealand, but he has the most amazing photos on facebook, so with his permission I have added some of the photos here - perhaps Daryl when you have some time off from jumping out of airplanes, visiting Islands and taking photos of sheep you can let us know about your new life in New Zealand, what is a typical day like? Ay?

That's not Daryl's girlfriend by the way, it's his niece and neither is the one with the white hair. That is the most beautiful sunset picture I have seen in a long time!

Past, Present and Future

2008-02-21T20:32:00.003Z

I'm a bit confused and was wondering whether I am alone in this or not. What is so bad about remembering your past? Why do people burn bridges? I can understand if something really bad happened and you just want to put it behind you and move on, but some of the best memories I have were made at Premier, the guys were like a family to me!

I am not doing this because I am nosey and just want to gossip about people, I do this because I care about everyone who visits here - so just to put the record straight, this is for me and for everyone who wants it to be for them, if you're not interested tell me, I can handle it, if you think this is a stupid idea, tell me that too! But if you often come back to check if there is news on past members of staff then this if for you and please let me know that you enjoy visiting here.

LUMB

Congratulations Daddy Dave!

2008-02-20T19:00:00.004Z

From: David Jones

Sent: Sunday, February 17, 2008 11:06 PM
Subject: New Arrival

Dear Family and Friends.

I wanted to let you all know Aimee and I have been blessed with a daughter Alexa Simone Jones, born on Saturday, February 16th at 1:39 AM.

Both baby and new mommy are doing well and will be coming home on Monday, February 18th.

Formal statistics for Miss Jones are:Weight: 6lbs 6oz / 2.89kgLength: 20in / 51cmSome pictures are attached, but I will be creating an online album with the huge volume of pictures that have already been taken.

Love to you all,

Dave aka new, proud, beaming daddy!

HAPPY BIRTHDAY LYNN & MARIA

2008-02-06T23:30:00.001Z

Well there are a couple of Premier birthdays firstly - Lynn turned 50 today and is very proud of making half a century.

On sunday 10th is Maria's Birthday.

Happy Birthday guys!

Home Sick

2008-01-31T13:01:00.001Z

Well I am sure that a lot of you are like me and go through your bouts of Home sickness. Last week-end we had some friends round, Joe & Carla - Joe is from Durban originally and Carla is from Jo'burg and they both lived in Johannesburg before they moved to Ireland.

They are off to SA in the middle of Feb and were telling us all out their four week trip back home, and how they are going to the Kruger Park and then off to Durban to see Joe's family etc. etc. and we spent 2 hours just talking about SA and home and stuff we used to do and people we know. It's just so nice to be able to share those kinds of memories with people who know exactly what you are talking about - and now I know why South Africans who move away always tend to look for some kind of familiarity.

I have always tried to steer away from the South Africans as it just made me depressed when people talk about how kak it is and this is wrong and the crime and and and, that it was just so nice to chat for 2 hours about the positive and fun things about SA - not that we will all be rushing back now, but just so you all know we miss you loads.

2008 - Happy New Year Everyone!

2008-01-19T16:53:00.000Z

Okay, okay, okay I know that it is already the 19th of January, but I really have not blogged here since November, so I really should be saying Merry Christmas, Happy Hanukkah and every other holiday between then and now.

I am sorry I have neglected you all, but I could not find anything interesting to put up here, so come and girls and guys send me some news.

I heard from Dave J. in the States and he said that he has been working very hard and just getting prepared for the "new" arrival on the 13th of Feb, he promised to send me photos and news to put up on the blog then.

Pierre phoned, he said they had a nice Christmas and New Year and Jersey is wonderful and everyone is well, kids are great, life is beautiful!

Oh yes missed Kenny's big 40 on the 19th of December and of course Derrick celebrated his on the 30th of October, you can see all the photos on my regular blog http://www.rowesred.blogspot.com/ there were a few other birthdays over November and December that I missed, Carol, Di, Pierre, I will have to set up a premier birthday calendar for everyone. Hope you all had a very happy birthday indeed.

Lynn is having a birthday early next month, 21 - happy birthday for then Lynn, sorry we won't make it over! We were in the States from the 17th of December and got home in time for new year on the 31st - New York is wonderful, have to go back! Again!

So please do send me any news you have and we can get this old blog going again, it has been asleep for too long now.

FOUND

2007-11-23T20:33:00.001Z

You will all be glad to hear that I found Daryl (those of you who read my blog anyhow), he is alive and well and living in one of the most beautiful countries in the world, but then again all of Gods countries are beautiful.

It's amazing how sometimes a country just keeps rearing it's head at every occasion, this year New Zealand has been at the forefront of a lot of my conversations.

Gwen's step brother Jon, got married in January to Kelly from New Zealand and after the wedding in Cape Town they moved back to New Zealand, they have subsequently had a little boy "Jack" and are very happy.

In February Wendy (my friend who lives in Oz), went to New Zealand for a holiday and told me how absolutely awesome it was.

Wee Claire (my young Irish friend) who had been travelling round Australia last year, broke up with her Ozzie boyfriend and while travelling round Australia, met up with Scottie, who is from New Zealand - he lives in Ireland now and was not happy about the rugby!

After the rugby world cup we all decided that we were going to New Zealand in 2011 to see the next world cup.

And now I hear from Dion that Daryl is alive and well and living in New Zealand.

The only problem with New Zealand is that they are 12 hours ahead of Ireland if not more, which tends to make communication a problem, but we get by.

So there must be some kind of attraction to the place at the moment, I decided to do a bit of research and found some of the most amazing pictures. If any of you want to get hold of Daryl or Dion I have their email address but won't put them up on the blog.

Till Later .... Rose!

HAPPY BIRTHDAYS

2007-11-12T20:56:00.001Z

Just wanted to wish both Carol and Pierre a very happy birthday for November 17th.

CONTACT INFO FOR DARYL or DION FOWLES

2007-11-12T20:41:00.001Z

Does anyone out there have any contact information for Daryl or Dion? I tried rining Daryl's cellphone and it has been disconected and his email address at IBM is no longer valid, so where is he.

I did a search for Dion on the internet and see that he is now working for Alexander Forbes as their IT security manager, if anyone has any contact please could you let me know.

Rose

Lynn's Holiday in Italy

2007-10-31T16:51:00.001Z

A holiday in Puglia, Italy... If you look it up on the map, it is the heel part in the southern most part of Italy. Arrived in Bari, Thursday 18th October to a very cool day. Thank goodness our hire car was available and we were soon packed up and ready to roll... but do remember that they drive on the other side of the road to the UK & SA.

Fiona had first drive shift and I played navigator... Unfortunately Fi turned out of the hire parking right on to the wrong side of the road only to have 2 cop cars wanting to use the lane we were incorrectly faced in. A quick reverse soon solved that problem and we were on our way with me saying " stay on the right" each time we turned or drove into a roundabout. The rest of the journey to the B&B was not without its challenges but we made it there in one piece.

We stayed in the lovely Masseria Banco. Masseria means farm house...
this was a working farm that had 100 acres of olives as well as some citrus and produced its own vegetables. The Masseria has a wonderful restaurant that is used by both the guests and locals and hosted 2 christening parties while we were there. The food there was wonderful.
Fi had pre-booked 2 meals and we stary there for a 3rd as well. We ventured into the nearby town of Avatrana to sample one of the recommended local restaurants, great experience. That was on the Saturday when I was hoping to find a restaurant with SkySports2 to watch the rugby world cup final, but with no luck.

In the 4 days we stayed at the Masseria we toured all around the Southern tip of the heel only to find that most of the seaside villages were completely shut... the houses were shuttered and there were not even cars parked in the town. We were lucky if we found the fishermen using the marina, but otherwise they were ghost towns. It felt really bizarre. The coast area was really lovely, but I can see that during the Italian summer month of August it must be a total nightmare with the families coming down from central Italy, Milan, Rome and Naples for their summer break.

We did manage to go into Lecce which has some fantastic architecture and the old part of the city great. One thing we did notice is that the roads are narrow and parking is a nightmare... what must it be like in the summmer? The Italians do not follow road laws and will even overtake on a double white line. They get extreemly impatient if the traffic isnt going the speed they want to travel and will drive right up your rear end. On one occasion when I was driving the guy was so close to me I could not see his bonnet... they are real nutters on the road. The parking is even worse... they just put the nose of their car into the parking space with the bum of the car just sticking out.

On the Friday we drove down the coast from Avetrana to Galipoli where the old town is on a little island just a short bridge from the mainland. Stopped there for a lovely lunch. During our touring we managed to work out how the signposting worked which had us a bit confused initally as the arrows point anywhere and you just have to work out where they expect to go, but because the towns are not huge we always managed to work it out in the end. The next day we drove on the main highway all the way down to Leuca and took the costal road all the way up to Ortranto which has a very pretty old town. Sunday we drove up through Manduria, Francaville, Martina Franca, Locorotondo, up to Alberobello where they have the trulli houses, which are houses built with peaked roofs... quite unusual. There is a whole village area of these in Alberobello, but because the weather was discustingly wet and miserable, we didn't venture too far into the village as one had to do this on foot.

On Monday we checked out of the Masseria and were fortunate to have the General Manager of the farm visiting so he took us on a tour of the olive factory, where they produce the olive oil. Theirs is one of the most modern factories where they extract and bottle 2,000 tonns of olives a day. The Puglia area is one of the highest growers of olives and supplies enough for for half of the olive oil used in Italy.

Did you know that olives cannot be picked and eaten off the tree. In order to make an olive edible it has to be soaked in water (usually salted water) for 3 days where the water removes the bitter taste and makes it fleshy and good to eat. And goodness where they good.
We then drove down towards Toranto where we skirted the city on the motorway past all the industry which was very evident and very unattractive. This is a port city with a large harbour. We took the coast road for quite a way and then headed inland towards Sapri, which is on the coast about 2 hours south of Napels. Driving through the mountains was absolutely spectacular, especially with the snow and there was even snow on the road we took. Just shows how high into the mountains we went. What I found amazing were all the villages perched high up on hills and mountains. Very beautiful.

We drove down the mountain road into Sapri and then headed south towards Aquafredda and then on towards Maratea where we found our B&B on the coast road just outside Maratea. It was really lovely placed right on the cliff with a full view of the setting sun over the sea. From the pool balcony it was straight down to the sea... there was a path right down but we didn't get to do this. The house was run by the owners where were not present while we were there but they had an Indian (illegal) fella there who could hardly speak English or Italian, but was very helpful. The poor man has quite a lonely life in the wintertime. We were to stay for 3 nights before heading back to Bari to get out flight home, but felt that the drive back would be a challenge to get there with enough time for our flight at 16:10, so we cancelled our last night and booked one closer up toward the airport in Noci. We drove into Maratea up on the hill and found a wonderful restaurant for dinner. The young lady serving us was a lot of fun... only about 3 couples in the whole place.

On Tuesday we wondered down the coast to Tortora Marina... it was really lovely going on the windy coastal road but where it flattened out the towns became very un Italian and very tacky with Las Vegas style resturants and clubs. We drove back to Maratea to the Marina for lunch and found a wonderful resturant. From where we were sitting we could see right up the mountain to the statue on the top of the hill so after lunch we ventured back into Maratea and wondered around the town and took some lovely pictures. Then we drove all the way up the windy road all the way to the top... even I was nervous. There was even a small village and a church at the top where the statue is situated. It is really high up and from there it drops all the way down to the sea...what a beautiful view.

Drove back to the B&B, relaxed and then drove about a mile up the road to Aquafredda to another recommended restaurant for dinner, and again only about 3 couples there. The summertime must be really buzzing as it was a large place with lots of tables out on the patio. The following morning we packed up and went for breakfast before heading back towards Bari. Going through the mountains was wonderful and we were soon back on the Bay of Toranto before heading back inland towards Noci via everywhere. We finally found the place which was wonderful and had trulli apartments... we didn't stay in one. We relaxed in the room and went to the restaurant for drinks before dinner. They treated us like royalty and when the place was open were ushered to our table... it feels awful to be the only table at the restaurant but again the food was fantastic and we had great wine... walking back to the room was a breeze.

In the morning we woke up early and spent a good part of the morning reading a book before making it to breakfast before it closed... checked out and started to make our way to Bari. Stopped off at a place I cannot remember where we wondered around the old city and had lunch at a wonderful local restaurant before making out way back to the airport in Bari to make our way home... plane was delayed but I think we got in on time, drove back to Fiona to pick up my car and drove home. Had work in the morning but at least I was rested and ready for work on a Friday...weekend again. Yippee.

Hope you are well and enjoyed the story!! Take care and tons of love...
Will put some of the photos on Facebook...

Love
Lynn

MISSING

2007-10-27T21:05:00.001+01:00

Anyone seen or heard from Daryl?

His mails have been returned for the last week or two ...

REWARD OFFERED FOR THE SUCCESSFUL RE-UNITING OF FRIENDS!

An Email from Diana

2007-08-20T19:48:00.001+01:00

It was so nice to hear from both Adrian and Diana in recent weeks, here is Dianas email for you all to read.

Hi Rosie,

I have been in touch with both Gill Illingworth and Melina over the past few months. Melina has told me about your blog - it is great and so strange to see some of the photos I took at our social functions appearing there! Being in the stick, we do not have ADSL or anything more fancy than dial-up. But we do now have free calls out of peak time so I will go in again to see your updates!

I had so many photos, negatives, etc as well as all the editions of the Premier News that I contributed to over about 4 years in a blue file - all of which I left behind at Datacentrix when I left last May. Maybe they are still there but I somehow doubt it. Maybe you could ask Mario, Tony Turner or someone else with access to the Woodmead offices to check out my old corner / cupboards etc. The only thing I kept was my plague for winning Scribe of the Year - that featured your Oceanic disaster as the centerpiece photo.

For several years Ian and I had had enough of JHB and the rat race and we spent some time traveling around SA looking for a country area we liked. Finally in March 2005 we spent time in Nottingham Road (about 1.5 hours inland on the N3 from Durban, in case you do not know). We bought the house back in July 2005 but rented it back to the owners until we could take occupation which was only on 1 June 2006. We have sold everything we had in JHB and have no inclination to ever return. Unless there is a wedding, special birthday or suchlike that we feel compelled to go to. Ian's daughter Fiona is still there working at Standard Bank Treasury now so who knows.

Ian sold his practice as at the end of July 2006 but took the 2 months holiday he had "saved" up and moved to the Natal Midlands from 1 June. We live in a house called Station House, halfway between Mooi River and Rosetta, which is a converted station (it was built in 1901 and decommissioned in 1956). We are busy renovating the house now (it was thought to be a 4 month project but it will take about 6 - 7 months!). We are very secluded being basically the end of the "railway" line and surrounded on 3 sides by a dairy farm and the other by the Mearns Dam which is the dammed Mooi River, and which has great bass fishing for Ian. He sometimes fishes morning, noon and evening from spring to autumn!! There are 3 other houses within a kilometres stretch along the dam but all of them are holiday homes that sit empty for about 80 - 90% of the time.

We have a cottage which we rent out (mainly weekend visitors) which gives us time during the week to enjoy ourselves. If you want to look at the cottage the website is www.wheretostay.co.za/stationhouse.

Sandy Stiles / Lambert from Info Centre is now Sandy Olivier having got married again to Ollie last December. She and her son Duncan, now about 14 I think, from her marriage to Alan, were here to visit us for a few days in June when we had our first snow. She is not currently working except to help Ollie in some of his business interests but her personal email address is (contact me for address). Sandy used to meet up with Carol at Woolies in Links but I am not sure if she still sees her or not - I will ask.

I can hardly believe how time has flown. Ian and I have been married for nearly 14 years, Melina and Lawrence longer than that and you and Derrick must have been married quite some time too.

We have 3 email addresses but all come to the same mailbox under Ian's name - (let me know if ou want any of these).

As far as I know Dorothy is still working at FNB as is Ncedisa Kandawire he left Datacentrix about 2 years ago. If so her email should be (I have this if anyone wants it). Oscar is also at FNB to the best of my knowledge but I cannot remember the surname. Thebo used to be at Standard Bank but I think he moved to somewhere in the States. Ncedisa could be a good contact though for all these people.

And lastly it was Ian Gray not Grey!! (I knew that Di I was just messing, Gray with the grey hair).

Well must get on with my other things now.

Take care, Di

Adrians photographs

2007-08-09T22:27:00.001+01:00

I will update the photos with an image number as soon as I have a moment, but in the meantime maybe the clever ones can work out which photo is which:

Image 1 : we were on the border of Swaziland in a game reserve
Image2: Bush Safari swazi border Before we left:- Back LtoR Des Horn, Mike Vidas, Carol, Vic, Johan, Paul. Middle Row LtoR.. Alan, Melina, Di, Ian Gray, Zeta Zaaiman, Ed. Front row LtoR… Adrian, Lawrence, Dolf
Image3: Ed with the game ranger
Image4: Ian Gray and Melina Swazi border
Image5:Paul, Zeta, Lawrence Swazi Border
Image6:Dolf with one of the game rangers Swazi border
Image7:Melina, Zeta, Lawrence Swazi border
Image8:Johan with one of the game rangers Swazi border
Image9:Canoe safari near parys
Image10: Canoe Safari on the Vaal River near Parys:- Lawrence’s Butt and beside him on the right is Colin from the Pc dept
Image11: Canoe Safari on the Vaal River near Parys:- Guim Nel (shirt off) Di and Melina
Image12: Canoe Safari on the Vaal River near Parys:- Between Ed and Dolf is Mike Vidas
Image13: Canoe Safari on the Vaal River near Parys:-Mike Vidas front and centre.
Image14: Bush Safari Swazi border:- ED, Johan, Guim, Di
Image15: Bush Safari Swazi border:- Dolf, Alan, Zeta, Mike Vidas
Image16: Bush Safari Swazi border:- Paul, Melina, Lawrence
Image17: Bush Safari Swazi border:- Guim, Alan, Johan
Image18: Bush Safari Swazi border:- Foreground Guim, Alan, Vic… Background Johan
Image19: Xmas Party: L to R … Linda Morton, Bee Galal, Peter, Sandy,.. Don’t know!!
Image23: Xmas Party: Gert
Image26: Tony and Cass Matthews Leaving on their honeymoon at Jan Smuts.
Image27: Tony Matthews about to get married.
Image28: Tony and Cass Just married
Image 30: Tony Scanes holding my firstborn Lauren 1990.
Image 31: Adrian at Greensleeves Colin Douglas's wife (cant remember her name.
Image 33: Linda from pc dept (holding Lauren about 1991) … used to work for Colin Douglas
Image 34: Alan Sussman holding Lauren 1990
Image 35: Before we departed for Greensleeves LtoR:- Di, Di’s boyfriend, Lawrence, Melina, Adrian, Paul, Paul’s wife. Front row LtoR Shelly(my wife) Gavin Dankworth, Edwina Dankworth.
Image36: Children's Christmas party Shelly getting a prezzie for Sarah May our second born Dec1993
Image37and 38: same Xmas party for kids
Image 39: Colin at Greensleeves
Image 40: The diesel after the fire on the engine’s battery and after the fire brigade had ripped out the ceiling. This is before the engine seized from the water pump bearings seizing.

Thank You Adrian!

2007-08-07T22:56:00.002+01:00

Once again a big thank you to an ex premier member for some photos, thanks Adrian it was so good to hear from you and thanks for all the pictures!

This picture of Tony must be one of the most beautiful pictures I have seen!

Dunking Danking Dankworth ...

2007-08-07T22:55:00.002+01:00

Any sign of Gavin?

Adrian Potter ....

2007-08-07T22:54:00.001+01:00

TRANSFORMERS

2007-08-07T22:51:00.002+01:00

Diesel blew a head gasket, system shutdown!!!

Lost & Found ...

2007-08-07T22:21:00.002+01:00

LOST!!!!!

The new "survivor" team: Adrian you are going to have to help me with the names here!
Okay Ed, your turn to come up with a campfire song or a story.

Ian, Ian, Ian ...... watch out behind you!

All men (& woman) deserve a rest after a good days hunt!

Okay Dolf, this is a good site for the new "volkstad", but do you think we could have a bit of colour instead of all khaki?

Now then Melina and Lawrence, no need to pretend you don't know each other, Zeta's got the inside edge on whatever happened here. By the way where is Zeta?
Crocodile Dundee watch out, this one's got the ladies wrapped!

Premier Rowing Team or someting???

2007-08-07T22:13:00.001+01:00

Beeyoudiful cheeks honey! But I think they need a wax.

Managers Team Building

2007-08-07T22:01:00.000+01:00

Aaah so the managers thought they were having a good time on their team building leaving the "indians" to do all the work while the "chiefs" had leisure time.

Here is a picture of (L:R) Ed, Johan, Guim, Dianne and Carol.

Zeta, Mike, Dolf & Alan.
Paul, Melina & Lawrence

MIS Christmas Party 1992?

2007-08-07T21:45:00.000+01:00

It was with great surprise and delight that I got an email from Adrian tonight, Melina had passed on the URL to him and he sent me and email and loads of photographs to share with everyone, here are some taken at the "Greek Taverna" in Melville, this was our Christmas party in 1992 if I am not mistaken, correct me if I am wrong Adrian.

At least this photo I can name almost everyone, from left to right, not sure who the first lady is, then we have Bee, Pete, Sandy, Dave, Andre and is that Lynn with the red dress on?

This one is Ed Nowasiad and a very sexy Belly dancer.

Kenny getting his award from Vic Adamini.

Okay need a bit of help here, who are the two guys to the left of Vic? Ed, with is back to the camera, Pete with a drink in his hand, Karen, Dave and not sure about the guy with the green shirt next to Ed, is that Tebo?

Johan and the belly dancer.

Gerhard and the Belly dancer.

And the last photograph is of a guy I think I gave mouth to mouth resuscitation at one stage, but for the life of me I can not remember his name ... sad! (Only kidding Derrick).

A New delivery

2007-08-05T23:29:00.000+01:00

Congratulations Dave and thanks for the news, thought I would share it with all the other ex-premier people. Dave's wife is expecting their first pitter patter of little feet on the 13th of February 2008, well done Dave, you can't be happy forever you know! ;-) (That's what everyone kept tell us, that's why we waited 8 years).

Thanks Lynn

2007-07-11T22:21:00.000+01:00

Lynn was over from London for the week-end we had a little party for Emily and her grandparents, but it was so cool seeing Lynn, we worked out that we probably see each other once a year, but it's just amazing how you can just carry on from where you last left off. Thanks so much for coming over Lynn it was so great to see you!

Some people just could not wait for the cake.

Diana and Lucia

2007-06-23T22:03:00.001+01:00

"Ian"

2007-06-23T19:21:00.000+01:00

Is that Gray or Grey?

Trevor

2007-06-23T18:26:00.000+01:00

Derrick has this photo of me that he keeps in his wallet and it was probably taken back in 1992 or 1993, but the spectacles I used to wear practically covered my whole face, I will get it out and scan it in.
But wait, the glasses weren't the only thing, those "rokke" and the permed hair, what were we thinking? Shoulder pads / move over Dallas ...

Day at the Races in Kyalami

2007-06-23T18:12:00.000+01:00

From L:R (Top) Paul, Lawrence, Melina, Diana, Sandy, Charlie (Middle) Not sure about the other two to the top right, bottom left looks like kenny and Deirdre next to him.

From L:R Paul, Lawrence, Melina, Diana

Dolf DeBeer

2007-06-23T17:58:00.000+01:00

Anyone heard from Dolf? Here's a story for you, Zelda & Maria will probably remember this, but all the departments at MIS were open plan with big boards between them and then all the managers had their own offices on the side.

Our office was right outside the boardroom and then Carols office was next to the boardroom and Dolfs office next to hers, one day when Dolf was out we swapped all the numbers on his phone around. For weeks on end he kept phoning wrong numbers, about a month later the technicians came in to check his phone only to show him that the numbers were all the wrong way round. ha! ha! ;-)

Then there was the time that Northern Transvaal lost their rugby match probably the curry cup final to Transvaal. Alet hung a wreath over his office door, and put a sign up "In Mourning" - well he came in, slammed the door closed and stayed there the whole day with out even venturing out!

What ever happened to Thebo?

2007-06-23T17:52:00.001+01:00

Came across this photo of Lynns and wondered what ever happened to Thebo? He was part of the "party crew" that used to go pub hopping after work.

Tony Scanes

2007-06-23T17:44:00.000+01:00

A lot of you will remember Tony Scanes much better than I will, the first time I ever spoke to Tony was just before I went on the Oceanos in July 1991. I was up in the pub "The Chip Inn" and Tony started chatting to me, I thought he was a really nice guy and I remember him saying we must have a drink when I get back from my cruise.

Well sadly the Monday after the Cruise left Durban, Tony was killed - so we never did get to have that drink.

What's amazing though is what a small world it is, Trevor ended up buying Tony Scanes house somewhere near the turn of the century (millennium).

Milling Race - "too fresh to flop"

2007-06-23T17:23:00.000+01:00

A lot of the photos that Lynn sent me to scan date back to 1986 and up, Lynn started at Premier in 1986, I only joined there in 1990 so I don't know who some of the people are in some of the photographs and Lynn has forgotten some, so if you recognise anyone in the photos please email me and I will add captions to each photograph.

This one of Tony, Johan, ? and Alan is quite comical, the "too fresh to flop" phrase is placed in quite a strategical position! And yes I know we have all aged, but my goodness they all look so young!

Rocky "Horror"

2007-06-23T17:13:00.000+01:00

I guess a lot of the guys who worked for Premier MIS either secretly wanted to be female or Transvestites - but either way this looks like it was loads of fun.

Pictures courtesy of Lynn Z's archives ...

June Birthdays

2007-06-04T08:14:00.000+01:00

I just realised how many ex-premier peple have their birthdays in June, here is the list: Happy Birthday to you all!

June Babies

Happy birthday to everyone born in June, if I have left your name off I did not do it on purpose but have just forgotten. I am sure June is one of the busiest months for Birthdays so here goes:

June 1st Edith

June 2nd Pete in Houston

June 4th Emily

June 7th Michelle

June 20th Amanda D.

June 21st Paul D.

June22nd Dave J.

June 29th Charlie

The Chipp inn and the Oceanos

2007-05-27T09:24:00.001+01:00

Well back in 1991 after the Oceanos sank, I got back to work and mostly everyone was so relieved that I had made it back. I remember getting to work and there was a big computer printed page with a helicopter on saying "welcome back Rose".

Lynn and I decided to do a pub evening about the Oceanos and we sent out these leaflets:

All my photographs are in the container coming over, so watch out for all those old photos coming soon!

I'm Back ...

2007-05-27T09:14:00.000+01:00

I just noticed that the last time I did a post to this site was a month ago before leaving South Africa or just after we returned, I was pretty depressed after that as you can imagine leaving all our friends and family.

So back in the spirit of things and need to keep this blog alive! Lynn said she has some photos of old days at premier in the pub, what was it called again oh yes "The Chipp Inn". Did we used to get free booze there? Is that why I dented my car in the car park so many times.

I also thought I would do a profile of each ex-staff member who visits the sight, that is if you send me a photo and some interesting stuff about yourself. I will have to devise some questions and then set about sending it off to you all.

Pete is looking for Dorothy Bermel

2007-04-26T14:27:00.000+01:00

Hi everyone,

Pete left a message asking if anyone has heard from Dorothy, if you have any news please let us know.

Thanks a million
Rose

Farewell SA from Derrick, Rose and Emily.

2007-04-19T05:23:00.000+01:00

I hear this song in my head at the moment "and now the end is near and I must face the final curtain, my friends la, la, la, la etc etc" anyway yes it is our final few days before we leave for greener pastures. We only managed to see Karen and Maria while we were here of ex-prem days and of course Gwen but that goes without saying - it would have been nice to catch up with a few other ex premiers but I guess it just did not happen, anyway hopefully we will be back for a holiday in 2009 and see you then, otherwise you guys know where we live come and visit.

Premier News

2007-03-19T08:04:00.000Z

Just when I think everyone has forgotten about my blog, I get some really really good stuff. I got an email from Daryl this morning with the following scans from the old "Premier News" they are absolutely excellent and thanks a zillion Daryl.

Other News

2007-03-14T18:48:00.000Z

Had an email from Lynn who has just come back from her cousin in Germany and also from Dave who says he has no news - so what about every one else.

Photos from Melina down under

2007-03-14T18:36:00.000Z

Melina sent these photographs that were taken over the Christmas period in Byron Bay, abd Noosa in Queensland. These are of Melina, Lawrence and Alex.

I don't think they have changed a bit, great photographs Melina.

Chappies ...

2007-03-12T22:22:00.000Z

Emily and I were talking about DVD's the other day and I mentioned the chipmunks and suddenly this sung just came to mind and I remembered all the words ... sing along!

Get big bubble gum

With chappies bubble gum

Gives you flavour by the ton

Lots of colours to choose from

Everybody knows the one

Chappies bubble gum

Urban Trash

2007-03-06T18:32:00.000Z

Let's talk Cricket

2007-03-06T14:02:00.000Z

So what was up with Ireland almost beating South Africa yesterday in the warm ups, oh my goodness I just hope South Africa are going to play better cricket in the next couple of weeks, else I am just going to have to support Ireland ;-)