On 21 May 2026, the IWMSA Western Cape Branch marked the significant milestone, 50 years of the Institute being in existence. The evening brought together about 50 members, past and present, for a cocktail celebration that was both a reunion and a time for reflection.

The event was opened by WC Chair Dr Shaazia Wiggins, who welcomed everyone and acknowledged sponsors AKS and JG Afrika, whose continued support makes events like this possible. WC Vice President Reon Pienaar (and incoming IWMSA President) delivered the opening address before Quinton Williams took over as the MC for the evening.

The highlight of the formal programme was a reflections session featuring past IWMSA Presidents and WC Chairs. Jarrod Ball (Rod) opened, reflecting on his tenure as IWMSA President from 1994 to 1996, a period that coincided with one of the most significant moments in South Africa’s history. Rod, mentioned that the IWMSA was called upon to provide input in the forming of the new Constitution of the country. Peter Novella (IWMSA President 2002-2204) inputted with a story that many in the room may not have known: it was Peter who, in 1994, proposed the motion at the IWMSA AGM to allow the formation of Specialist Interest Groups, an initiative driven by Western Cape members including Bill Ross, Annette Naude and Mary Chettle.

The motion faced opposition, including from Council members, and was only carried with the support of the President of the time, Jarrod Ball. The first interest group, the Landfill Interest Group (LIG), was established in Cape Town in 1996 and these groups are widely credited with changing the face of the IWMSA. A fitting piece of history to share on the same evening, in the same room.

Alison Evans, former Chair of the Waste Minimisation and Recycling Interest Group (WMRIG) from 2008 to 2012, and Richard Emery, who chaired the WC Branch (2008 to 2012) and has served as branch treasurer from (2012), each added their chapter to the story. Jan Palm, IWMSA President from 2016 to 2018, rounded out the reflections with his perspective on a more recent era.

Quinton then turned to WC Branch Manager Linda Campbell, asking her to reflect on managing three active interest groups: the Landfill and Alternative Waste Treatment Interest Group (LAWTIG formally LIG), the Collection and Transport Interest Group (CTIG), and the WMRIG), alongside the branch itself. Linda directed her thanks squarely at the members who volunteered their time and energy over the years to keep everything running. IWMSA Executive Officer Nicolle de Bruyn closed the formal programme, thanking all those present for their continued commitment to the Institute and acknowledging patron members AKS and JG Afrika for their support of the evening.

What followed was exactly what a 50th anniversary should look like, members catching up, old colleagues reconnecting and more than a few stories that probably deserved their own session. A good evening for a branch with a lot to be proud of.