These iconic cars, which earned the 300SL the title of “Sports Car of the Century” in 2009, have garnered enthusiastic participation, according to Waldo Scribante, the chairman of the organizing club, The Southern Cape Old Car Club. Scribante, who owns an extensive Mercedes-Benz classic collection in South Africa, expressed excitement about the committed entries of these rare and valuable vehicles.

Of the seven Roadster versions among the 300SLs, a noteworthy addition to this year’s show is the original Gullwing 300SL Coupé, making its debut alongside the Roadsters. Scribante highlighted the significance of this inclusion, as the Gullwing is currently the sole original SL series coupé in South Africa.

The George Old Car Show’s reputation as the premier Western Cape event for classic cars is underscored by the diverse origins of the SL 300s participating in the show. These cars are making their way from various parts of the country, including Johannesburg, Klerksdorp, Cape Town, Paarl, and even a local machine from George. Notably, this SL display coincides closely with the 70th anniversary of the Mercedes-Benz 300SL.

The roots of the original Mercedes-Benz 300SL trace back to 1954, a period of motorsport dominance for the Stuttgart-based manufacturer. Derived from the 1952 Carrera Panamericana, the first 300SL featured a special triangulated tubular space-frame design in its chassis, a design element retained in the road-going version.

The famous “Gullwing” nickname for the 300SL coupé stems from the unique upward-flipping doors, inspired by the high door sills of the competition-spec 300SL. The coupé version, produced between 1954 and 1957, incorporated racing DNA, making it a trailblazer in engineering.

Key features of the 300SL include the first-ever direct-injection petrol engine, a 3.0-liter straight-six overhead camshaft engine, and a distinctive low bonnet line achieved through a canted engine and dry-sump lubrication system. With a top speed ranging from 235 to 263 km/h, the 300SL became the fastest production car in the world in the mid-1950s.

The 300SL Roadster, introduced in 1957, maintained the coupé’s mechanical layout but featured modified chassis sections to accommodate conventional doors. Known for its aesthetic elements, including leather interiors and “eyebrows” above the wheel arches, the Roadster contributed to a total production of 1,400 Gullwing coupés and 1,858 roadsters between 1954 and 1963.

The George Old Car Show 2024, scheduled for February 10-11 at the Eden Technical High School in George, anticipates over 1,000 classic cars. Tickets are available through iTickets, and pre-1985 classic car owners interested in showcasing their vehicles should visit the Southern Cape Old Car Club website for pre-registration. The organizers strongly recommend online ticket purchases to avoid queues at the gate.

For more information, visit www.scocc.co.za

Press release on behalf of Southern Cape Old Car Club: interface by goji mimi finestone | mimi@gojipr.net | +27 84 583 3144

The post Eight Mercedes-Benz 300SLs to headline the 2024 George Old Car Show appeared first on Visit George.

George local Shaun Butler chairs the Disabled Road-race Foundation – hosts of the annual Outeniqua Chair Challenge (OCC), which rolls along on February 24.

George, Garden Route (January 2024) – After a motorcycle accident left Shaun Butler with a spinal cord injury nearly a decade ago, this inspirational 33-year-old has been shifting focus to sports that allow him to excel as a paraplegic athlete.

Having swopped his iron horse for a three-wheeled racer of a different kind, Shaun has refused to let this new set of circumstances define him. First, he turned to hand-cycling, then bodybuilding as a means to not only overcome adversity but also to excel in these challenging sporting disciplines.

“I have been training and competing in bodybuilding for about 18 months, since July 2022. Before that I was doing CrossFit and hand-cycling – in which I took an interest after my first 5km OCC in 2015, when I met Pieter du Preez for the first time,” says Shaun.

Having again signed up to compete in this year’s Chair Challenge, Pieter du Preez is one of the sport’s brightest stars. A familiar face at the OCC, he had also won gold in the 2020 Paralympics in Japan, and was the first quadriplegic ever to complete a full Ironman.

“It was a great experience that exposed me to the sport, at the time I was still new to the scene and didn’t know much about the options available. Choosing a favourite activity is difficult for me, as I have an extreme interest in all of the sports that I participate in.”

Shaun’s dedication and discipline have led to a body that defies limitations and serves as an inspiration to countless individuals worldwide. An example of this commitment is the rapid rate at which he managed to shoot up in the bodybuilding ranks.

After countless hours in the gym, sculpting his physique, and mastering the art of bodybuilding, Shaun won the disability section at the Physical Culture Association’s (PCA) Battle of the Titans held in the Cape last July.

He was then selected to take part in the PCA SA Championships in Pretoria in September and, based on his performance at this major event, jetted off to Spain for the PCA World Championships in November, where he scored a third spot podium position.

“The trip to Malaga was amazing, as it was my first international exposure to a sporting code that motivated me and gave me the drive to keep on going. The takeaway from the trip is that no matter what your circumstances, you can always achieve the goals that you set out. Dedication and motivation are key,” says Shaun.

When back on the subject of the upcoming OCC, he pays tribute to Disabled Road-race Foundation initiator Esther Watson: “The Foundation started in the early 2000s with Esther as the main driving force. Ever since it(Disabled Road Race

Foundation) has been the host of the OCC yearly – the only exclusive wheelchair race in South Africa to date”.

“I have been racing in the OCC since 2015, only having missed one year because of Covid, so this will be my eighth race. I have been involved with the Foundation and event organizing since 2018. The race, this year celebrating its 20th anniversary, has grown into one of the most prestigious wheelchair events in South Africa.”

With the new sporting pursuits on his plate, Shaun says he will only be doing the 21km hand-cycle race this year. There are also 42.2km and 10km route options, as well as a 5km fun race for all, and a boxcar section for local businesses in need of great exposure and an excellent team-building opportunity.

Two categories in the competitive section are open to quadriplegic and paraplegic athletes, and subcategories cater to competitors depending on the type of chair used.

These include racing chairs, hand-cycles, basketball chairs, and more.

If your business would like to get involved or you could help out as a volunteer at the OCC hub of Carpe Diem School on Friday, February 23, and Saturday 24th, contact Alewijn Dippenaar at dyndev@mweb.co.za or on 082 457 5675.

Shaun has a final word of motivation for those now considering entering: “I call out to all differently-abled individuals who need a new challenge and want to feel part of a great community – not to mention the excellent health benefits – to come and join us on the day for a fun-filled experience.”

Sponsors of this year’s OCC are headlined by George Municipality and include Lancewood, Safari, the Premier’s Office, Western Cape Department of Cultural Affairs & Sport, Eden Sports Council, and Algoa FM. Call Shaun Butler at

The post Dedication and motivation ensure Shaun Butler’s sporting success appeared first on Visit George.

https://youtu.be/q4LDU9o1v6s

The post All Things Vuma, S2 Episode 13 appeared first on Visit George.

Situated in the Western Cape province of South Africa, ‘George’ goes far beyond the city CBD. It includes towns such as Wilderness and Uniondale, as well as hamlets Herolds Bay, Victoria Bay, Hoekwil, Herold and beyond. Its diverse landscapes are easy to access. Within only a 1.5 hour drive, you can experience the vast, semi-desert open plains and passes of Uniondale as well as the majestic mountains and cool blue ocean of George and Wilderness.

This outdoor paradise has so much to do and see. Hike or mountain bike over 2,000km of mapped trails and enjoy adrenalin-fuelled adventures. Enjoy leisurely, lazy days on the pristine sunkissed beaches and spend a day with your family picking strawberries, exploring the largest permanent hedge maze in the Southern Hemisphere and more. As the golfing mecca of South Africa, bring your clubs and tee off at premier courses.

Art, cultural and historic experiences await. Explore the art meander, go on a cultural tour or take a tuk-tuk to learn all about Uniondale. The Transnet Museum, filled with relic trains and other modes of transport, is not to be missed. It is also the departure point for a tram train up the mountain. Foodies are spoilt for choice with great gastronomic experiences, locally grown agriculture and a wide variety of fabulous restaurants for wining and dining.

ADRENALIN-FUELLED ADVENTURES

• 4×4-ing
• Abseiling
• Canoeing and Kayaking
• Canyoning / Kloofing
• E-Bike Rides
• Horseback Rides
• Learn to Surf
• Paragliding
• Microlight Flights
• Quad Biking
• Rock Climbing
• Segway
• Stand Up Paddle Boarding
• Helicopter Charters
• Paintball

FUN FAMILY FRIENDLY THINGS TO DO

• Animal Parks and Rehabilitation Centres
• Bike Park
• Bubble Ball (children)
• Bumper Boats (children)
• Go Cart Track
• Indoor Play Centres (children)
• Miniature Train Rides
• Pedal Go Carts
• Trampoline Park (children)
• Powervan Railway Trip
• Strawberry Picking
• Pony Rides (children)
• Treetop Aerial Obstacle Courses

ARTS, CULTURE & HISTORY ENRICHMENT

• Art Galleries and Routes
• Dine with a Local
• Guided Cultural and Historical Tours
• Museums
• Township Bicycle and Cultural Tours
• Tuk-tuk Tour
• Pottery and Ceramic Classes/ Experiences

GREAT GASTRONOMY

• Coffee and Chocolate Pairings
• Craft Your Own Gin Class and Pairings
• Culinary Cooking Classes
• Farm Stalls
• Markets
• Oyster Shucking, Show and Tell Experience
• Wine Farms and Tasting Rooms
• Gourmet Picnics

STUNNING NATURE AND WELLNESS

• Blue Flag Beaches
• 800 Year Old Big Tree
• Birdwatching
• Boat Rides
• Botanical Gardens and Guided Tours
• Scenic Drives and Lookout Points
• Spa and Wellness Emporiums
• Yoga Experiences
• Special Interest Tours

LET’S GET SPORTY

• Fishing
• Golf Courses and Coaches
• Trails for Hiking, MTB and Running
• Padel, Tennis and Squash Courts
• Swimming and Public Pool
• Lawn Bowls
• Target Shooting and more

With plenty to do and enjoy, as well as a comfortable year-round climate, George is an ideal getaway!  

The post Dreaming of a Garden Route vacation? 60+ reasons to visit George appeared first on Visit George.

George, along the Garden Route in December 2023, gathered with a diverse crowd at Protea by Marriot Hotel King George last Friday morning to launch the George Old Car Show 2024 over a scrumptious breakfast spread. At the mic during the event were tour veterans and other old-car acolytes alike.

Representing show founders, the Southern Cape Old Car Club, and aptly decked out in lederhosen and related garb was Dr. Waldo Scribante. He started off proceedings with a brief history of the event and an announcement that next year’s GOCS on February 10 & 11 will boast a distinct German feel.

One of the 2024 show’s unique attractions will be an oompah band on the Sunday, but Waldo also alluded to a possible sneak-preview performance on the Saturday. And not surprisingly, both show days will see a special focus on German marques such as Mercedes Benz, Volkswagen, and BMW in models old and new.

“He will bring some festive German cheer to the 27th George Old Car Show, and at the same time celebrate the Southern Cape Old Car Club’s 35th anniversary during what has become its annual flagship event,” he said.

He reminded guests – including George mayor Leon van Wyk along with representatives of car dealerships and various local and national media channels – of how SCOCC members held the first event at Paul Fick’s farm in 1987; by 2004, it had grown into the second biggest car show in the country.

“George Old Car Show has been held every second weekend in February ever since, except when Covid-19 prevented it in 2021. This year, approximately 12,000 people attended the show, and in 2024 they would like to make it even more enjoyable for every exhibitor, stallholder, and guest at the Eden Technical High School showgrounds,” said Waldo.

First citizen Leon van Wyk shared his team’s regard for the importance of tourism in George and elsewhere on the Garden Route and lauded GOCS organizers for having created an “anchor event” in the town. “Thank you for the way this event has been built over the years into the major attraction it is today,” he said.

The mayor reiterated the importance of events that attract foreign tourists in a post-Covid world and that offer such an alluring package that both national and overseas visitors extend their stay. He also announced the development of new collaborative efforts with provincial government and tourism bodies to reach this objective.

“A few days ago, Wesgro announced its collaboration with global organizations to structure flight and accommodation packages into George from Cape Town. Also, as recently approved by the Western Cape cabinet, an improved growth strategy called G4J (Growth for Jobs) will work towards almost doubling our GDP by 2025.”

Next to take up the mic was GOCS chairman Alewijn Dippenaar – an old hand when it comes to riling up audiences while sharing his respect for old cars and their crafty conservers. He praised the three-pronged objective of SCOCC members to collect, restore, and exhibit. But actually, he said, the show is “all about relationships”.

“In the old-car industry, there are three distinct categories: ‘before his time’, ‘when he was young’, and ‘of the now’ – the relationship with cars by the generation born after 1970. But unlike his ever-changing human years, cars have fixed eras. For instance, the dates for the vintage-car category, built between 1 January 1919 and 31 December 1930, will never change.”

A comprehensive explanation followed during which Alewijn’s formula demonstrated that, taking a top average age of 80 years as a benchmark, there will soon be very few people alive to tell true-life stories of their relationships with old cars. “In 27 years from today, most of the old-car industry generation that could claim ‘in his time’ will be gone.”

By 2040 another generation will have passed, and in 2050 those who experienced the 60s era will be gone. By 2050, people will only be able to say “before his time” – and this, said Alewijn, leaves them with “living the now” as only the other category. “So it is super great to have new car dealers with them today, ready to participate in the show.”

The world asks for innovation and creativity, concluded Alewijn, adding that the GOCS 2024 will need to strategically marry ‘before his time’ and ‘living the now’ to ensure the future interest, passion, and involvement of new generations.

“This is the great difference that the SCOOC is making with George Old Car Show: ensuring that cars built before 1970 are relevant to future generations. It is the club’s legacy project to ensure a continued passion for old cars, and to remember their relationship with these cars through storytelling and the great camaraderie enjoyed at each year’s Old Car Show.”

A final word went to SAVVA (Southern African Vintage and Veteran Association) chairman Philip Kuschke, who congratulated fellow SCOCC members for having built the event up into such a dynamic affair.

“George Old Car Show is all but static – you can see how stationary engines work, buy the maize meal ground and witness water being pumped. Bikes and tractors and cars of all shapes and sizes drive past at intervals during both days, and it’s also the show in the country where the most veteran and Noah cars are being exhibited.”

Philip will be steering the Vet Tour, which kicks off on the Thursday before show weekend, for the 19th time next year. Find out everything you need to know about this veteran-car cruise, as well as registration and other details of GOCS 2024, by clicking on www.scocc.co.za. Prospective exhibitors and stallholders can call Alewijn Dippenaar on 082 457 5675.

See the George Old Car Show event listing here.

The post German-themed Old Car Show will oompah George into automotive action appeared first on Visit George.

• TOURISM INFORMATION

Experience top golf courses, pristine beaches, railway adventures and adrenalin fueled fun. Wander lush trails, savour great gastronomy and so much more!  Find out more, right here on the official destination website, or get in touch at one of our Visitor Information Centres.

•  VISITOR SAFETY

Your wellbeing matters! Stay safe with beach guidelines, mountain info, and emergency contacts for the festive season found here.

• MUNICIPAL CONTACTS

George Municipality is here to help.  Get in touch to log a service ticket or obtain information.  Municipal contacts can be found here.

The post This summer, get all the information you need appeared first on Visit George.

There are four oyster tanks inside the farm stall area – where live oysters brought in from the West Coast live.  These tanks are kept impeccably clean with a UV steriliser and ensure that the oysters are served 100% fresh.  The interesting tank setup includes a clever oxygen system, a water-cooling process and activated charcoal.  Anyone with an interest in fish tanks would enjoy the information provided about the setup and upkeep of the tanks.  The oysters are then literally taken out of the tanks, shucked out of the shell in front of you and served.

At our table we had breathtaking views of the mountains and natural habitat.  While we sat and chatted, we could hear many birds chirping nearby.  It was incredibly relaxing to soak in the views and sounds.

The oysters were served with a variety of toppings to allow you to enjoy them 6 different ways.  The traditional South African style is with lemon, black pepper and tabasco.  Add horseradish to this combo and you will be enjoying your oysters the Jozi way.  Replace the horseradish with tartar sauce for some Free State.  Scrap those ingredients and drizzle your oyster with soy sauce and chilli to add some Vietnamese to your palette.  The 5^th way to enjoy them is the Japanese way, with teriyaki sauce and pickled ginger.  Lastly, a bit of red onion and red wine vinegar round off the oyster the French way.  Of course, no oyster experience can be complete without a glass of champagne.

Two of our interns had never eaten oysters before and decided to give it a try.  This is the beauty of tourism – being exposed to simple experiences which are different to your own culture or home environment.  They bravely chewed and swallowed their oysters while we all looked on in anticipation.  They both decided it must be an acquired taste, like sushi – but were glad that they gave it a go.

Oysters R Us also serve a selection of cold meats, crackers, cheese and other tapas style foods to build a gourmet picnic of your own, which you can enjoy at your table while soaking in the view.  The Show and Tell educational experience is for groups of 10 to 25 people, from 11h00 to 12h30 on Wednesdays to Sundays (not available 15 December to 15 January).

This experience is highly recommended for foodies who enjoy authentic experiences, as well as anyone who loves oysters, of course!

Heritage Bakery, a stone’s throw from Timberlake Village

After Oysters R Us, we popped in at Heritage Bakery.  It was quite a drive into the property, which is also set on a farm, so we took it slow – which is how I think the area is really supposed to be enjoyed.  Even though we were only 30 minutes away from our office in George, it felt as though we had been magically transported away into another world.

The first sight to greet you at Heritage Bakery is the most adorable goats you have ever seen.  And not far off were some very fluffy chickens, one of which was surrounded by a brood of five chicks.  Before going inside, you are drawn to the other end of the farmstead property, where two really endearing llamas peer at you through the fence.  There was also a gaggle of geese and I immediately thought of my childhood days reading about Jemima Puddle-Duck.  The outdoor area offers a few lawn games, with some outdoor seating.  Heritage Bakery is ideal for anyone with small kids, who will love the outdoors filled with cute creatures.

Much of the gifting inside the bakery, coffee shop-come-farm stall is made right on the premises – leather-crafted and woodwork items, as well as pottery.  The beautifully crafted leather items were also very well-priced.  There was a selection of the most gorgeous soaps and wooden sculptures which captured my attention.

The coffee shop had sweet treats, cakes and freshly baked breads to tempt us.  They also do functions, offering a brisket with smoker, wood-fired pizzas and even creative classes upon request.  These could include pottery, woodwork, leather craft and even trendy weaving demonstrations with loom.

Timberlake Village, outdoor lifestyle haven

We briefly scooted over the road to Timberlake Village and were reminded again that we do not come here nearly enough.  We popped our heads in at the Figtree Bakehouse, where dough was being rolled out and put into baking dishes, which we loved.  We were then drawn in by Ingrid Nuss’s gallery surfboard doors.  It is awesome having the artist there, where you can engage and catcha  glimpse of her workshop behind the retail space.  The Wildflower shop is super trendy and quite earthy.  We were also drawn towards the playground, which lead us to the back of the Naughty Monkey Café because of the beautifully muralled Neevrah container.

Timberlake has a selection of shops, eateries and activities.  Don’t miss Acrobranch – an amazing obstacle course through the treetops.

The post Work envy continued: Oysters R Us Show and Tell appeared first on Visit George.

Executive Mayor Leon Van Wyk the keynote speaker for the event, accompanied by Ward 4 Cllr Marlene Viljoen, Municipal Manager Dr Michele Gratz and Director for Community Services, Dawie Adonis took receipt of the flags and certifications at the launch. Blue Flag is an international coastal management programme that accredits beaches that meet standards of excellence in water quality, environmental management, environmental education and information as well as safety and services. In South Africa the programme is implemented by the Wildlife Environmental Society of South Africa (WESSA).

Dr Gratz said Blue Flag status offered many benefits including improved tourism facilities, enhanced management of coastal ecosystems, increased awareness of the coast and capacity building of coastal municipalities. “Blue Flag status has significant international merit, and the achievement of such accolades is important to stimulate and confirm international and high-end interest in the city and district as a desirable, quality tourism and lifestyle destination. We thank SANParks Garden Route National Park who shares jurisdiction of Wilderness beach with the George Municipality.”

The Blue Flag season runs from 1 December 2023 to 31 January 2024. Compliance includes high standards of water quality monitoring, public safety and lifeguard services, and well-maintained coastal amenities. South Africa has participated in the Blue Flag programme since 2001.

Municipal Manager, Dr Michele Gratz in thanking everyone who attended the event noted that participation in the Blue Flag and Green Coast Awards is an honour. She also thanked attending George Municipal officials for the hard work and effort they have put in toward the hosting of the event as well as the preparation of the beaches so soon after the damage caused by the storm surges in early September this year.

ABOUT BLUE FLAG:

The iconic Blue Flag is one of the world’s most recognised voluntary eco-labels awarded to beaches, marinas, and sustainable boating tourism operators.

In order to qualify for the Blue Flag, a series of stringent environmental, educational, safety, and accessibility criteria must be met and maintained.

With over 4500 sites in over 45 countries around the world, Blue Flag is actively contributing to the sustainable development goals. Blue Flag also campaigns against disparity, inequality, unemployment, health threats, depletion of natural resources, environmental threats, pollution and general environmental degradation.

In South Africa, Blue Flag has been operational since 2001 and has proud municipal, marina and tourism boat partners in 18 coastal municipalities around the country.

Blue Flag is voluntary, which shows a very strong commitment to environmental sustainability from those municipalities, marinas and tourism boat operators that are awarded annually. All properties and companies that apply for the Blue Flag award are assessed by a South African National Jury as well as by the Blue Flag International Jury in Europe.

ABOUT GREEN COAST:

Based on the success of the Blue Flag eco-label and the recognition that Blue Flag is only applicable to a limited stretch of urban coastline, WESSA developed a second coastal award for implementation along South Africa’s coastline. The Green Coast Award, officially launched in 2017, is an annual award programme that recognises inclusive and sustainable management at less developed coastal sites with high biodiversity value.

Green Coast is a platform for collaboration, innovation, and local public participation in coastal management. Successful coastal sites achieve Green Coast status by meeting a set of criteria that are designed to ensure environmental, developmental and participatory standards are continually maintained and improved. Where possible, Green Coast sites aim to include a resident’s association or public group who can mobilise active citizens to participate in the management of the site. The Green Coast criteria include aspects of basic ecological monitoring, encouraging citizen science initiatives that empower communities for civic action and influence localized decision making. Coastal areas with Green Coast status appeal to a specific sector of the tourism market who are looking for experiences in adventure, outdoor living, and nature tourism along our coastline. The Green Coast award assists these sites by putting them on the tourism map and promoting them all under one national eco-label.

‘Learn more about beaches in the greater George area in our destination story

The post Blue flag beaches and a Green Coast Award for 2023/24 Festive Season appeared first on Visit George.

The aim of the Garden Route Botanical Garden is to conserve, promote and research the rich but threatened floral diversity of the Southern Cape region and now exists to enhance awareness and understanding of the surrounding natural beauty, its biodiversity and uniqueness as well as the socioeconomic value of our Floral Heritage.

One of the main ways the GRBG contributes to our natural heritage is through the conservation of biodiversity. The Garden encompasses a range of habitats, including indigenous forests, wetlands, fynbos, and coastal dunes. These habitats support a wide variety of plant and animal species, including threatened and endemic species. By preserving and managing these ecosystems, the GRBG ensures the long-term survival of these species and contributes to the overall biodiversity of the region.

In addition to biodiversity conservation, the GRBG also plays a vital role in rescuing critical plant species. These are usually fetched from surrounding areas where development is taking place. The garden receives water from important water catchment areas and river systems, which are essential for maintaining the water supply to the garden for irrigation.  By implementing sustainable management practices, such as controlling invasive alien species, the Garden helps to safeguard these valuable resources for future generations.

Moreover, the GRBG provides opportunities for research and education. Scientists and researchers can study the Garden’s ecosystems and species to gain a better understanding of how they function and how to better protect them.  They can also make use of the on-site Herbarium to do research on all the plant that grow in the Southern Cape. The Garden also offers educational programs and interpretive materials to visitors, which includes weekly visits by school groups, raising awareness about the value of the natural heritage and the importance of conservation.

The GRBG also supports the local economy and community. Tourism activities within the park, such as hiking, birdwatching, night and Sunday markets, night life guided tours and medicinal plant lectures, attract visitors and generate revenue for the area. The parkrun also starts and ends every Saturday in the Garden and attracts between 300 (winter) to 1200 (summer) attendees.  A new Italian restaurant will soon open its doors at the Garden Route Botanical Garden and offer a wide variety of food and drink options. It will also be dog friendly.

All of this, in turn, creates employment opportunities and economic growth for local businesses and residents. By promoting sustainable tourism practices, the Garden ensures that these economic benefits can be enjoyed while minimizing any negative impacts on the environment.

Overall, the Garden Route Botanical Garden in George contributes to our natural heritage by preserving biodiversity, protecting natural resources, promoting research and education, and supporting the local economy. It is a vital asset for the region, ensuring that future generations can experience and appreciate the natural beauty and ecological importance of the area.

The Garden is currently busy with a 2-year reconstruction program to bring the Garden Route Botanical Garden to its full potential.  This includes:

• A new ablution block.
• Reconstruction of the dam wall.
• Repairing of all roads.
• A new entrance into the Garden.
• Children’s play area with a jungle gym.
• Improved security (solar panel lights, movement detection camaras and electronic monitoring systems).

The 25th anniversary celebration is planned for 18 November 2023 at the Hawthorn Boutique Hotel and will include a dinner, presentation about the Garden and a very interesting talk by one of the previous Curators of the Kirstenbosch Botanical Garden. The Carpe Musicam Quartet will entertain the attendees with some beautiful music from popular musicals.

THE MUSHROOM MEANDER TRAIL

Of the 16 hectares belonging to the GRBG, about 6.5 hectares have been rehabilitated into natural forest. Here, the Garden has made an 800-metre-long trail, which has been named “the Mushroom Meander Trail”. This is a good way in which to explore the forest, with lots of information signage along the trail. This trail is also wheelchair friendly.

WATER SUPPLY BURROWS

Part of the original water supply burrows run through the Garden. For years it was the only water supply to the town.  Some of the elements of the supply system in the Garden have been restored to a functional capacity (see below).

Can you see the side profile of a face (King George III?) – especially in the reflection in the water?

To learn more about events taking place at the Garden Route Botanical Garden, please visit our events page for the latest information.

The post The Garden Route Botanical Garden investing in People, Planet and Prosperity appeared first on Visit George.

Conservation Efforts

Garden Route Birds of Prey‘s (GRBOP) primary objective is to care for injured birds of prey and facilitate their healing for eventual release into the wild. By rehabilitating these magnificent birds, GRBOP contributes to the conservation of biodiversity and the preservation of these important species. This aligns perfectly with the notion of investing in the planet by safeguarding its natural resources.

Sustainable Tourism

GRBOP serves as an attraction for tourists who are interested in wildlife and conservation. Visitors can observe the rehabilitation process, learn about the birds and their ecosystems, and understand the importance of preserving these species. By incorporating environmentally friendly practices in its operations, such as energy-efficient facilities, waste reduction, and responsible visitor management, GRBOP showcases sustainable tourism practices.

Green Investments

GRBOP’s commitment to investing in people and prosperity is evident through its emphasis on community education, particularly among the youth. The centre conducts interactive educational programs, workshops, and awareness campaigns to educate individuals about the significance of birds of prey, their ecological role, and the importance of conservation. By empowering the local community with knowledge and fostering an appreciation for nature, GRBOP contributes to the development and prosperity of the region.

GRBOP aligns seamlessly with the principles of investing in people, the planet, and prosperity by rehabilitating birds of prey, promoting sustainable practices, and fostering educational initiatives.

The post Tourism for Good: Garden Route Birds of Prey Rehabilitation Centre appeared first on Visit George.