Charles Harebottle

After matriculating, Charles underwent national service, which was an 'interesting' time for him. Opposed to Apartheid, he was not prepared to bear arms in its defence. He did a short time in detention and was later sent to the Namibian (South West) border, the thinking being that fear of the 'enemy' may be more successful in convincing him to carry a weapon than the authorities had been. His national service was completed without him ever taking up arms in defence of Apartheid.

He went on to study mechanical engineering at Wits University, and graduated with a BSc(Eng) degree. He later went on to do a GDE (Graduate Diploma in Engineering) and then an MSc(Eng), also at Wits.

In January 1983, Charles married Miranda Lee (Mandy) Bowker. Trevor Ellis, who had been a good friend through national service and at Wits, was his best man. For eight years, Charles and Mandy lived as DINKs (Dual Income No Kids), then the body clock kicked in. Jodilee was born on 30 August 1991, and Caleb Murray was born on 18 September 1996.

Charles' career started as an engineer with Eskom, moved through commercialisation of non-core subsidiaries, and then managing high-risk companies (start-ups or business turnarounds). He is now a director of several companies.

Charles is a member of Bryanston Country Club, but seldom gets a chance to hit a ball. He still enjoys motorcycling, with the odd Sunday morning ride. His real interests are his family and sharing the best of the South African natural environment with them.

Married to: Mandy (nee Bowker)
Children: Jodilee (1991) and Caleb (1996)
Occupation: Director of companies
Address: 1131 Bradfield Crescent, Sherwood, Dainfern, South Africa
Phone (H): (011) 469-0527 or 469-0546
Phone (W): (011) 259-5000
Cellphone: 083-327-6581 or 083-327-6566
E-mail: charlesha@intekom.co.za or charles@mso.co.za


Germiston High School - Class of 1976
Copyright © 2001-2003 Rodney Jones, rtjones@global.co.za.
6 August 2003