FOUNDERS DINNER 2026 – 90TH ANNIVERSARY OF GORGEOUS WRECKS SHELLHOLE

The 90th Anniversary of Gorgeous Wrecks Shellhole was fittingly commemorated at the Founders Dinner held at Evenden House on 9th May 2026. The afternoon marked a significant milestone in the proud history of the Shellhole and was celebrated in true MOTH spirit.

We were deeply honoured to host Moth Andy Boden, National Chairman of the Order, as our Guest Speaker. The occasion was further distinguished by the presence of Provincial Old Bill Moth Jimmy Frieslaar and Pretoria District Old Bill Moth Thinus Prinsloo as invited guests.

Old Bill Moth George Butler formally welcomed all present, including members, wives, and girlfriends, setting the tone for an afternoon of camaraderie and reflection. To commemorate this auspicious occasion, each member and guests were presented with a 90th Anniversary pin as a lasting memento.

In his address, Moth Boden delivered a concise yet meaningful account of the history of Gorgeous Wrecks Shellhole, tracing its origins back to its inaugural meeting held at the Imperial Hotel in Pretoria on 14 April 1936. He paid tribute to those distinguished members who have served on both Provincial and District Dugouts over the years, making special mention of Moth Bruce Michler – Old Bill of the Order (2011–2012) and Moth Eddie Penzhorn – Old Bill of the Order (2018–2019).

The dinner itself was superbly prepared and presented by Sh/Supp Lu-Ann Louw, ably assisted by her dedicated team, the “Butterflies,” whose efforts ensured a most enjoyable culinary experience for all in attendance.

Despite residing in Australia, Moth Eddie Penzhorn shared the following message in appreciation of the “Butterflies”:

“Wow, Blokes and Bloquettes, I am totally gobsmacked! Congratulations and so very well done! I can’t even turn my back and you lovely lot of Wrecks just outdo yourselves again.

You’re now the only undisputable ‘A-Team’ of this Memorable Order of ours; absolutely accomplished, adept, admirable, affable, alluring, amazing, ambitious, amiable, astounding, auspicious, authentic—and pretty well totally awesome!
Thank you for this wonderful 90th Founders Day memento.”

The evening was a resounding success, filled with fellowship, nostalgia, and good humour. Great credit is due to all who contributed to the organisation and execution of this memorable event, which will undoubtedly stand as a highlight in the history of Gorgeous Wrecks Shellhole.

And so, as the afternoon drew to a close and the last of the port mysteriously found its way into empty glasses (purely for medicinal purposes, of course), the old soldiers of Gorgeous Wrecks once again proved that while the years may advance and the hairlines may retreat, the spirit of comradeship remains unshaken. Stories grew taller, the laughter louder, and as is customary, firm promises were made to “take it easy next time”—promises already known to be operationally impossible. With handshakes, backslaps, and the occasional slightly off-balance salute, the Wrecks departed into the night—content in the knowledge that the Shellhole is alive, thriving, and in very good hands for the next 90 years.