Falcon - Quiet Waters 2001 - Picture Album: Information

Beginnings

The Quiet Waters Farm was acquired in 1983 by Falcon College. Since that time it has developed as a unique conservation project , educational and recreational facility for the pupils of Falcon College and other schools within Zimbabwe. This has been achieved under the able leadership of Gordon Macdonald who relinquished his Chairmanship at the end of 2000 when he assumed duties as Headmaster of the College.
 
The Quiet Waters Conservation Project is administered by a working committee comprising Falcon College staff members - Messrs A.C. Bancroft (Chairman), E.J. Marais (Vice Chairman), Mesdames L.M. Cumming (Treasurer), J.E. Bancroft (Secretary), H.A. Macdonald, Dr. H. Cunnigham, Messrs D.J.M. Fleming, M.A. Cumming, S.A. Coulson, A.C. Coulson, W.A. Randle and O. Linda.
 

Facilities

Facilities within Quiet Waters include four picnic sites, a hide and the Fish Eagle Retreat (built in memory of the late Andrew Stobart). The campsite situated in the wilderness area has become increasingly popular with parents occupying the lodges on a regular basis. Schools from Matabeleland and the Lowveld have also utilized the area for educational visits. The four A-frame chalets, each with its own braai area, are equipped with beds and basic cooking utensils. Solar lighting has been installed and hot and cold showers are an added comfort. Parents and Old Boys are welcome to take advantage of these facilities . For bookings and further information contact Mrs Bancroft during normal office hours.
 
In addition to on-going extensions to the water reticulation system, future projects include the building of an additional hide overlooking Hammerkop dam. Funds for this project will come from a donation received from the estate of the late Bill and Gwyn Taylor. It is also planned to increase the cattle herd from the current 85 animals. As a start to this venture an additional paddock has already been completed below the old swimming pool. Any parents or Old Boy who has a heifer (or any other young stock) which they might have available for a good home can contact Mr. Stuart Coulson at the College.
 

Looking ahead

With the start of the new term it has been pleasing to note the large number of pupils who have spent time in Quiet Waters. There is still no sign of the four giraffe which knocked down the electric fence at the end of last year and took refuge in the wilderness and on the neighbouring Essexvale Ranch. In complete contrast to last year's excellent season which totalled 240mm of rain, only 75mm has been recorded to date. As a result , both the Mbonisa Weir and Hammerkop Dam are both empty. Despite a generous offer of assistance from a parent, plans to repair a serious leak in the weir have been shelved for the time being due to the high cost involved.
 
Funds for the development of Quiet Waters have come from the sale of cattle and various internal fund raising exercises, the Falcon College Board and donations in cash and kind from parents, Old Boys and friends. A successful "200 Club" has helped to cover wages of the permanent staff - there are still vacancies for the current year for anyone wishing to participate in this venture.