The annual Barberton raid took place over the weekend 29/9 – 1/10 2023.
Jocks who attended were Spike Becker, Seán Culhane, Dewald Ras, Bob Prince, John Hopkins, Maurice Paoli, Colin Tame and Mike King. Support troops were Esté Becker, Carol-Ann Culhane, Brenda Ras, Beverley Hopkins, Romina Piperi and Jaquie Maroudas.
The raid was meticulously planned and executed by Dewald apart from the weather – it was the best Barberton could offer and was only 38 degrees whilst on parade. This required the engagement of all wheel drive by some of the marchers due to terrain and temperature.
The upside of the morning parade was the drinks and chairs in the shade at the Lone Tree Shellhole. Much mopping of brows took place as did the reduction in the stocks of Castle Light which was at the ideal consumption temperature.
After a light lunch at the Plaas Kombuis it was time for a few winks of recharge time and then off to the afternoon parade at the remembrance gardens. The grounds have been kept in excellent condition and all the plinths were freshly painted and looked outstanding. Respect was paid and wreathes laid under the watchful (and little bit amazed) eye of the locals braaiing.
At the traditional gathering on Heartbreak Hill at sunset, our sincere thanks must go to the South African Irish band who played Atholl Highlanders as the sun disappeared over the horizon. After playing their Killaloe, in the circle they for the 1st time, opened a bottle of Famous Grouse in remembrance of Porky Wright, which was passed around followed up in quick succession by a bottle of OB’s. Both having their caps flattened. This was indeed a moment of remembrance and significance.
Saturday evening the formalities ended off with a stunning bush pig on the spit provided by the Jathira campsite and coordinated by our MOTH friends and comrades.
Sunday morning saw the team executing a tactical withdrawal and heading back home to which everyone thankfully arrived safely.
To quote General McArthur – it was agreed that next year “we would all return” with hopefully increased numbers.
A great weekend it was to be sure – Alba nam Buadh.
Cheers,
Mike
Watch the videos of the 2023 Barberton Raid on the Jocks YouTube channel.
Former members of the Regiment are eligible for membership of the Transvaal Scottish Regimental Association. Individuals who have not served with the Regiment, but are interested in the well-being and principles of the TSRA are welcome to apply for Associate Membership.
