A historical and memorable camping weekend filled with birthday celebrations and rugby history for 13 of our members and 2 visitors is what was in store in Porterville.

This past week leading up to our weekend at 22 Waterfalls felt like it was the longest week of the month, considering it had been 6 weeks since we last spent time together at the provincial rally at Zandvlei.

Catch-ups and long overdue kuiering was the order of the evening.

We celebrated one of our junior campers birthday on Friday evening at sign in with some extra special treats but the week and long drive got the better of most of our members who retired earlier than usual after watching the bronze final.

Our die hard fire crew were out in full swing burning bags of wood as only they know best, catching up and enjoying the excitement (and anxiety) for what was to come on Saturday evening.

Our committee treated our members to a delicious English breakfast served with French toast on Saturday morning to set off the celebrations of the day.

Saturday afternoon was packed with fun activities, including piñata fun, a scavenger hunt, and a Green and Gold supporters afternoon which detailed our best dressed Bok supporters and afternoon druk ‘n drie with snacks which included Franco MELKtert, Siya COLA-si, CHIPlin Kolbe, Damian WURMse and Frans MARSHerbe.

As avid rugby fans, the afternoon was dedicated to supporting the Bokke and our campsite was transformed into a sea of green and gold as everyone proudly donned their Springbok apparel.

However, the highlight of the weekend was undoubtedly the rugby match, where South Africa made history by retaining the World Cup title. If there was ever a time to see grown men cry, it was when the final whistle blew.

The Bokke faced a formidable opponent, but the atmosphere was filled with hope and anticipation. As the match unfolded, tension gripped the campsite. Cheers and groans echoed for what felt like the longest 80 minutes.

The Springboks without a doubt contributed to hypertension being the main concern of the weekend.

The celebrations continued long into the night, with tears of joy, singing, and plenty of laughter and bottles clinking and cheers being heard near and far.

This camping trip was a perfect blend of celebration, fun, and sportsmanship, leaving everyone with cherished memories that will be treasured for years to come.

The weather (Sunday’s howling wind) and signal reception at 22 Waterfalls were the only downsides to the weekend but an enjoyable weekend was had regardless and we’re looking forward to Die Hut in 3 weeks time to get again make memories one camp site at a time.

As Atlantic Region rolled into Die Watergat on Friday 28th July 2023, so did the bad weather. The rain had no intention of letting up but be that as it may it was not going to spoil our extra special weekend.

Sign-in took place as usual, followed by an assortment of the most delicious curries, which were enjoyed under the big, covered Lapa area with everyone sitting down together at the long table to enjoy the meal. We took the opportunity to wish Robin again on his very special Milestone Birthday. After dinner the ladies took over the Lapa area and the double twelves came out and it was game on, our very industrious gentlemen managed to light the most wonderful fires and those not participating in the double twelve showdown got warm and comfortable under a huge Gazebo that quite comfortably accommodated all of us. The rain continued, but our in-house DJs kept the party going with the most enjoyable tunes, that turned out into sing-alongs enjoyed by all.

Saturday rolled around with the weather not changing much. We cancelled our planned walk around the park due to this, but in true Atlantic style we just got on with our weekend. Saturday afternoon “the baby Fester” baby-shower was hosted. The Gazebo was turned into a sea of blue balloons and of course the cake table was laid out to perfection. The gentlemen were invited to join in on the festivities and going forward I think they will all be putting up their hands to attend a baby-shower as they had a great time, as did the ladies, playing games, testing our knowledge regarding nursery rhymes and baby items, and of course pushing our performing skills to the limits. After the baby shower everyone was ready for rugby, fires lit again, dinner cooked, DJs back in the house, and before we knew it, it was time for Chairmans on Sunday.

The campsite is situated on a working farm and boasts the most beautiful view of vineyards and mountains. Easily accessible the site has 20 electrical points, braai facilities, swimming pool and WIFI, generator that kicks in during loadshedding. The Lapa area has a kitchen with two fridges, washing up area and seating. The ablutions consist of 2 bathrooms with a shower, basin, and toilet as well as another separate toilet. The only problem encountered on our weekend was the lack of hot water in the showers, apparently the gas ran out??? Our only gripe!!!!!!

Not the pouring rain nor the lack of hot water in the showers could ruin our weekend away. Our 12 families and 1 visiting family all enjoyed themselves thoroughly.

The weekend was made more memorable by the fact that we got to celebrate Robin’s extra special birthday and of course the baby shower as we await the arrival of precious baby Fester.

Our first official rally was amazing! What a feeling of friendship and camaraderie. We arrived at Die Hut at 14h00 on Friday, to our surprise we were the last to arrive.

The Green family marshalled and entertained us with a lovely spread. There was much excitement when we opened our gift from CCSA, badges and flags for our vans. There was no shortage of enthusiasm and ideas of building Atlantic into a tranquil, fun filled, kid friendly and happy place, where campers become friends.

Die Hut, what a gem of park. The park offers a feeling of security, cleanliness, private ablution, kid friendly and luscious green soft grass. Buffet breakfast served at a reasonable price, fit for kings. Braai facilities and wood available, we will definitely be back.

Chairmans held under a tree in the centre of the park. There was much discussion with all actively involved. Lovely doughnuts was served which has become a custom with our group. Packing up is a breeze with helping willing hands making light work of this task.

Bitter sweet moment as the rally is officially over, however planning for the next had begun