THE BIG 50: From truancy to trout, a deliciously accidental career
On a milestone anniversary as a newspaperman, your Food Editor takes his palate on a stroll through the places and plates that have seasoned his days.
On the 11th of September in 1976, a young journalist named David Peters embarked on a journey to pursue his dream of becoming a reporter. He rode a bus into town from High Level Road in Three Anchor Bay, nervous as he approached St George’s Street, Shortmarket, and Burg to finally arrive at The Cape Times. Encountering the diminutive concierge, David expressed his aspiration to meet the Shipping Editor, George Young.
After an initial interview, David was directed to the third office on his left labeled Shipping. Upon entering, George Young quizzed him about his interest in journalism. Despite lacking a matric certificate, David confidently declared his desire to become a journalist and to write. George, a man of mirthless smile, encouraged David to pursue his passion, remarking that he must find a way as his mother couldn't afford to send him to university.
Two days later, David's friend told him about the Cape Times Shipping Editor. Impressed by David's background, George Young offered him the position of compiling the daily shipping log. For the next four years, David diligently learned the basics of journalism under George's guidance.
During his formative years, David's love for fine food was nurtured by his father, who often took him on cruises aboard Union Castle mailships between Cape Town and Durban. From these experiences, David developed an appreciation for exquisite culinary delights. Later, while working at The Argus, he continued to refine his food writing skills, penning occasional restaurant reviews throughout the 1980s.
David's unexpected career path led him away from shipping journalism, as he ultimately realized the need to explore the broader aspects of life and human experience. With the encouragement of his editors, Tony Heard and Wessel de Kock, David overcame his initial limitations and went on to become a well-known journalist and writer. Today, his story stands as a testament to the power of perseverance and the pursuit of one's dreams, even when faced with seemingly insurmountable obstacles.
Written by urgent.news from Daily Maverick's reporting — not their text. Machine-written — may contain errors; check the original before relying on it.
