A good crowd gathered to watch the opening of this event at the community hall to the accompaniment of the Kwanokuthula Field Band and their young troupe of dancers. The musicians were smartly dressed in black and white, while the dancers added a bright pink to their attractive costumes. It was heart-warming to see such enthusiasm and skill and to watch children as young as eight years of age performing alongside teens and young adults. Later in the afternoon, we were treated to a performance given by a select Capella group from the Kwanokuthula Primary School Choir. These young singers owe much to the talented teacher who trained them, singing part songs in perfect harmony without accompaniment.

A huge thank you to all who made this event successful. To the folk who came with their enthusiastic support – you have helped the Foundation to continue the work which focuses on curriculum and professional support for teachers and development and extension support for learners. We focus on no-fee government schools where the need is great and resources small.

A special vote of thanks is due to the following:

To Plett Arts Association led by Jill Forbes and her team of artists who:

• Gave us the chance to partner with you and benefit from your exhibition
• Generously donated sales income from small paintings shared proceeds from the auction sales and exhibited art sales
• Gave of your time to tutor Plettenberg Bay Secondary School learners in the skills of painting, with the result that these learners were able to display their own work at the exhibition. You also sponsored these learners with a pack of art materials each.

To William Mwale for sharing your talent as you painted a complete and marvellous picture of an African wild dog. It was amazing to watch such an accomplished artist at work. And then you so generously donated the proceeds from the sale of this brand-new painting at the auction.

To Francois Wolfaardt for assuming so skilfully the role of auctioneer. A challenging task made to look easy along with all the fun and humour so characteristic of Francois.

To the Bidders, without you, there would have been no auction, so thank you for your participation, and may the successful bidders: S.Dawson, Marietta van Rooyen, Dianne Kloka-Speight, Francois Wolfaardt, Corinne Button, Mike Anderson and Jan Mostert enjoy their treasures for many years to come.

To the sponsors of our Raffle Prizes, thank you for these splendid gifts:

• Beacon Isle Resort
• South African Animal Sanctuary Alliance
• The Old Rectory
• Offshore Adventures

To the Kind People who bought raffle tickets. You all contributed to the success of this initiative. Congratulations to each winner: Gael Ridge, Marguerite Lenferna, Madeline Hoban and Alistair Sebastian; we trust that you will thoroughly enjoy your outings.

To Anton van Stormbroek, a founder member of The Bitou 10 Foundation and past principal of Plettenberg Bay Primary School, and Mlulami Faleni, principal of Kwanokuthula Primary School, we thank you as you described the work of the Foundation and its positive significance in the lives of both learners and teachers.

To the staff of Bitou 10 Foundation who gave generously of their time to attend throughout the week, on hand to share and explain the work of the Foundation.

It was a wonderful week for all involved and we look forward to next year’s event!