I lived in Randfontein and survived it
Randfontein seems to be a treasure chest of memories, records and famous people.
It seems Randfontein is a treasure chest of memories, records and famous people.
The Herald came across a Facebook group: I lived in Randfontein and survived it. It has 5 335 members who frequently take a tour down memory lane.
They discuss various topics and the feedback as well as comments seem overwhelming. Many members do not live in Randfontein anymore – some even live abroad – but still keep in touch via the Facebook page. Many school friends made contact after many years and famous landmarks are discussed.
In one post, a member mentions former Randfontein Mayors Mossie Massyn, Andre le Grange and Andre Rossouw, asking fellow members to add to the list.
Some of the interesting things that came to light included Randfontein holding the world record for the most churches and bottle stores in one street. Another member, Basson Botha also posted a photo of his grandfather’s brother, Piet Botha, who played for the Springboks against Australia in June 1965.
He still lives in Randfontein.
Another favourite topic is Uncle Harry’s Roadhouse. Teknitula Petunia “Spacenoise” from Auckland in New Zealand, asks what everybody’s favourite takeaway was.
Favourites include the banana, lime, strawberry and lime milkshakes while pizza, Dagwoods, choc nut sundaes and toasted chicken mayonnaise were the favourites. One member even asked if anybody remembers “Oom Kokkie” – who, despite a wooden hand, cut hair in Randgate.
A very interesting fact is Jacques Loots, who played the role of Genis in Koöperasiestories was from Randfontein and is buried here.
Sias Reynecke, writer of the well-known song, Sproetjies also was buried in Randfontein.
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