SAEC still alive and kicking
Known for its strong connection with the community, SAEC would often host events such as potjiekos competitions and monthly burnouts.
After being located in Modderfontein for the past 12 years, SA Emergency Care has moved and re-established itself. Despite the rumours, SAEC management assured the NEWS they were operating as normal from their new Isando home.
The organisation, beloved by many in the community, officially opened its doors on September 1.
Director Elmaré Liebenberg said for the past 12 years SAEC had rented the property in Modderfontein, especially on a month-to-month basis over the recent years.
“Not knowing what was going to happen the next month was like a sword hanging over our necks. We had invested a lot in that property to keep it in the best condition as possible and to keep the place going,” said Elmaré.
Due to a lack of business during lockdown, SAEC was unable to pay rent for the property.
“There was a court interdict and we were told to vacate the property,” said Elmaré.
“Because we were at the property for 12 years we were allowed a month to prepare everything for the move; however, we were only told we had to move 72 hours before the deadline.”
Elmaré said the SAEC team and friends cleared the property and moved everything over a weekend which was described as a mad scramble.
“After making three or four phone calls, friends and members of the SAEC family came through to give us a hand with the move.”
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Elmare said with SAEC’s move the Fireman’s Tavern was also forced to relocate.
Known for its inviting atmosphere and historical memorabilia the pub continues to operate but is looking for a new property.
Fellow SAEC director Jan Liebenberg said he is hoping to find premises in the greater Kempton Park area for Fireman’s Tavern.
Known for its strong connection with the community, SAEC would often host events such as potjiekos competitions and monthly burnouts.
Originally started as a way to train municipal firefighters, the burnout evolved into a community event allowing community members the opportunity to watch and learn how firefighters responded to an emergency.
“For many community members seeing what firefighters do on a scene was a real eye-opener,” said Jan.
He said because the new property lacks the necessary facilities, SAEC will no longer be able to host burnouts.
“We have our smokehouse and can do the pan fires but unfortunately we can’t host any more burnouts.”
Looking to the future, SAEC hopes to continue hosting its annual potjiekos competition and firefighter rescue challenge.
The Liebenbergs remain confident and believe that although SAEC has endured some change everything will work out.
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“Everything happens for a reason, this is a new challenge but we will do our best to persevere and carry on as normal,” said Jan.
“Not only have we achieved so much in the industry in the 21 years we were open but we have established ourselves as a household name among community members.”
SAEC is located at number 7 Skietlood Street, Kempton Park. Contact them on 087 149 0189.
