SACA Southwestern Cape celebrates 50 years

The Southwesten Cape region of the South African Caravan Association (SACA) recently celebrated its 50th anniversary. The celebrations took the shape of the club’s annual Phantom Camp: members of the caravan club gather at a certain meeting place and then follow clues that take them past scenic points on a specific route until they reach the campsite. This year’s clues led members to De Hollandsche Molen Resort near Franschhoek. The group of 55 caravans were welcomed by the organisers, Hanlo and Melicia Engelbrecht, and their helpers, Johan and Ohna Oosthuizen. Alec, 87, and Joan Forster, 82, were the oldest members to attend the gathering. The proceedings kicked off with a glass of sparkling wine and birthday cake, and on Saturday the seniors spoilt the rest with delicious food and drinks. Then followed an informal dinner where 50 candles were lit. The gathering ended with a church service on Sunday, after which the mystery Phantom was to be unmasked. Up to this point, the members did not yet know who arranged the Phantom Camp. There were a number of identities – Achmed the Dead Terrorist (Louis Havenga), a brightly coloured clown (Carla Smit), an old lady (Koekie Griessel) and a farmer (Johan de Swart) – the real Phantom was unveiled: the farmer! Contact sawa.org.za