This year was totally different for tourism all over the country. Covid-19 and the lockdown brought all business, and more specifically tourism, to a standstill. The AGM of Vryheid Tourism had to be postponed from March and only took place on Monday (October 19). The AGM, which is an important milestone, could only put its agenda on the table this week. From the chairman’s report, it was clear that Vryheid operators were not too badly affected by the lockdown. Most of the operators focus more on business and commercial tourism, government officials, etc. These operators are gradually returning to their full capacity, which is a major plus for our area. The most pressing matter is the linkage with the municipality. An unexpected visitor in the person of Municipal Manager Bonga Ntanzi briefly attended the meeting. It was clear that issues that are important to tourism are also high on the priority planning list of the municipality. Business will only be attracted to a clean Vryheid; it is important that services bring people into the town of Vryheid, which will benefit all sectors of the economy. Infrastructure needs to be addressed. Long-term planning is essential and the municipality plans to achieve these aims by 2030. Regular matters were also on the agenda. The financial report was tabled and the election of a new committee took place: chairperson – Gustav Röhrs; vice-chairperson – Wilfred Mchunu; treasurer – Annalize Vorster; committee members – Ankia van Wyk, Nomfundo Delvillani, Elfriede Gevers, Christo Swanepoel, Zanele Zwane, Sheryl Derby, Michell Louis, and Honey Nkosi. The state of Lancaster Hill Game Park – especially Ntinginono Enviro Centre and the picnic area – was discussed. Vice-chairman Wilfred Mchunu then gave a brief summary of local tourism projects, both in place and still to come. The meeting was well attended from all sides – business, municipal officials, private operators and even some councillors. All in all, 31 role players were present. An excellent lunch was served by the hosts of the meeting. It is clear that Vryheid Tourism is still alive and well, despite the lockdown. Co-operation with the municipality promises to improve next year and Vryheid Tourism is hopeful that 2021 can only be better than 2020!
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