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GRAAFF-REINET NEWS — Every school’s matric farewell is a traditional rite of passage where matriculants celebrate the end of a 12-year journey and anticipate their transition into adulthood.
It is an evening that is regarded with much reverence and is remembered fondly as they enter into their lives as young adults. Union’s celebration took place last Friday evening, May 19, and what a beautiful evening of sophistication, elegance, and a celebration of beauty and joy it proved to be!
The weather was perfect as the cavalcade of both exotic and charming vehicles slowly made their way up to the SA College for Tourism - the perfect venue for such an event. As the sun set over Spandauskop and the lights of Graaff-Reinet twinkled below them, the 2017 matrics made their way proudly down the red carpet much to the delight of the well contained crowd who came to watch and cheer their arrival.
The young women all looked astounding. Their dresses were stylish, classy and elegant - with vibrant red being a popular choice. Clean lines and long hemlines were the order of the day - pure and exquisite beauty seemed to shine from within each and every girl.
The gentlemen did not disappoint either! They were trendy and snappy with suits of navy blue and aubergine, and interesting hats and shoes to boot! Hairstyles were well thought out and beautifully executed. It was wonderful to witness these young men and women taking a confident stride onto the cusp of adulthood.
On entering the building, guests were whisked up a stairway through flocks of more than 2000 origami birds that had been lovingly folded into form by the enthusiastic Grade 11 class who made the whole event possible.
The origami bird is significant in Japanese culture. Traditionally, it was believed that if one folded 1000 origami cranes, wishes would come true. It has also become a symbol of hope and healing during challenging times. The matrics entered the venue enveloped in hope, healing and good wishes! Upstairs, a collection of suspended clouds lit from within, reflected forever in the glass over the beautiful town below.
Head girl, Timony Miller reflects, “The thousand hanging paper birds, the gently illuminated cotton clouds, the perfectly-captured atmosphere of serenity - all came to settle in a soft place in my heart until the tears glistened in my eyes. The effort was absolutely amazing, and the night itself was beyond special. I’ve said it countless times: it was really Heaven on Earth”.
A photo-booth of dramatic wings turned the already beautiful into real angels, and much fun was had by all as they posed with friends, as a record of the magical evening.
The view of Graaff-Reinet is breath-taking and became an appropriate part of the décor. Once everyone had arrived and mingled, they were welcomed and invited to take the stairs ‘down to earth’ where a dramatic contrast awaited them.
Union’s Head boy, Ross Stanley said, “I never thought it could, but even coming down to Earth took my breath away! We enjoyed a three-course meal in Paris, Rio, Bangkok and many other locations from around the World. The company fitted the theme as they all could have passed as Angels!”
After dinner and moving, relevant speeches, the Grade 11’s performed a cutting edge dance. Well- rehearsed, opening waltzes pre-empted everyone dancing the night away in the little piece of escapist Heaven that they were transported to that evening.
This Matric farewell reflected the passion and teamwork of so many. A dedicated group of Grade 11’s who worked tirelessly fundraising over the year and who executed their ambitious project with excellence - gleaning valuable life skills along the way; the team at the College who were accommodating, helpful and professional; so many businesses in Graaff-Reinet that gave so generously in so many ways; the Beyers Naudé Local Municipality who cleaned for days around the venue, even sweeping the streets - and most importantly - the matric class of 2017 who, with their outlook and attitude, made this evening truly one of sophistication and grace.
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