Land Rover enthusiasts take tourism to struggling restaurants
The Hendrik Potgieter Road based dealership ensured the Landy enthusiasts were well fed, as they provided boerewors rolls and refreshments to get them on their way.
Born for the bush and open dirt roads, Land Rovers and their dedicated owners are a special breed. An almost cosmic attraction binds the iconic off-road vehicles to the romanticists that drive them.
Land Rover Classic enthusiasts group came together to bring relief to a few resorts and restaurants in the northern Free State. 2020 has seen local tourism ravaged by travel restrictions, and the club chose to follow the compass south-west to find those in need of a lift. Jaguar Land Rover West Rand served as the departure point for the intrepid adventurers, who headed towards Kraalkop and Fochville for the first leg of their journey.
The Hendrik Potgieter Road based dealership ensured the Landy enthusiasts were well fed, as they provided boerewors rolls and refreshments to get them on their way. “It is important that we support the guys and make sure we do our part to give back,” said Brand Manager, Bhupesh Jivraj.
Their first stop would be at a riverside campsite just outside of Parys on Friday night, 16 October. Day two began with a buffet breakfast at an adventure resort where they would spend the day tackling the rugged and challenging off-road tracks that the Land Rover calls home. Sunday would be marked by a relaxed lunch at a well-known seafood restaurant in Parys before making the trek back to the big smoke.
“With the lockdown, these small establishments that rely on tourism have really suffered. The Series rally is a great way to bring tourism back and give these places the lifeline that they deserve,” said event organiser and Roodepoort resident, André Verster.
A special mention goes to Florida resident Willa du Toit and his white 1974 Series 3 which was originally purchased at the old Land Rover garage across from Flora Centre. Living the spirit of adventure and togetherness, all arrived safely home having thrust a bit of life back into local tourism.
