For the sake of others, 10 000 kilometres is not far to travel.
This is the thread linking six Newcastillians, two former Newcastillians and two vehicles, as they set off on a cross-country epic journey next year.
Intrepid explorers they are, taking on the Put Foot Rally from June.
Following in the footsteps of students, Steven Brown and Theuns Nel, the team of Tim and Gail Stroebel, Norbert Kade, Marietjie van Waardenberg, Paddy and Debbie Smuts, Dave Macallister and Helen Truter are embarking on their own odyssey.
Their motivation was speaking to Steven and Theuns themselves.
“After they shared their experiences, it was an emotional high witnessing first-hand the gratification of young, underprivileged children receiving school shoes for the first time in their lives,” explained Tim Stroebel.
Noting the importance of the rally, connecting and building ties with our neighbours, and showing South Africans are caring, team Not Dead Yet meets monthly to implement fund-raising drives and iron out the details.
The team departs for the starting point of Cape Town in June next year.
After journeying through Namibia, along the Caprivi Strip to Zambia, up to Malawi and through to Mozambique, the team plans to end at Inhambane, before returning to Newcastle.
“The aim of the trip is to collect donations from local businesses, to enable the two teams to purchase school shoes, stationery and soccer balls, which will be handed over to local children at designated points throughout the trip.”
Not Dead Yet further intends to show others they do not need a 4×4 to travel in Africa, with older models making a comeback.
Donors towards the journey will have their logos displayed on the two vehicles used.
“This will be from the beginning of January 2016 until August, not only locally, but throughout the 10 00km trip.”
Thus far, Not Dead Yet is selling tickets for a braai hamper draw, donated by Baldwins Metal Land and available from any of the participants or the Pint and Pigout.
“We will keep supporters updated along our journey, as well as highlighting the natural beauty of the African bushveld and the heartfelt gratitude on the faces of children, as they receive their gifts.”
