APRIL 2026
Suid-Kaap Oumotorklub / Southern Cape Old Car Club
Suid-Kaap Oumotorklub
Southern Cape Old Car Club
2025 SCOCC CLUB OFFICIALS CLUB PATRON Kobus Harris
082 453 1497
clubpatron@scocc.co.za
PRESIDENT Chris van Staden
082 491 4780
president@scocc.co.za
2025 SCOCC COMMITTEE CHAIRMAN Waldo Scribante
082 802 3280
chairman@scocc.co.za
VICE CHAIRMAN Chris Kühn
082 799 0451
vicechairman@scocc.co.za
TREASURER Willie van Zyl
083 442 0287
finance@scocc.co.za
SECRETARY Rensche Kühn
082 410 0399
secretary@scocc.co.za
EVENTS Chris Kühn
082 799 0451
events@scocc.co.za
IT & WEBSITE Pierre Malherbe
082 497 0377
it@scocc.co.za
SAVVA Rensche Kühn
082 410 0399
savva@scocc.co.za
REGALIA Japie van Rooyen
071 881 3668
regalia@scocc.co.za
The opinions expressed in Spanner do not necessarily reflect the views of the SCOCC club committee, the editor, club members and/or officers of SAVVA or advertisers in this magazine.
P.O. Box 1749, George Western Cape, 6530 Email info@scocc.co.za
Website www.scocc.co.za
Suid-Kaap Oumotorklub
Southern Cape Old Car Club
2025 SCOCC COUNTRY REPRESENTATIVES MOSSEL BAY Kobus Harris
082 453 1497
kobus@harris-scheltema.co.za
OUDTSHOORN Riaan van Rensburg
082 895 5723
mach1wp@gmail.com
PRINCE ALBERT / KLAARSTROOM Jeremy Witts-Hewinson
082 488 8370
klaarstroom@telkomsa.net
BEAUFORT WEST Riaan Brand
083 284 7145
riaan.duiker@gmail.com
2025 SCOCC ADMINISTRATION MEMBERSHIP & INDEMNITIES Marlize Herholdt
073 305 6214
info@scocc.co.za
EDITOR: SPANNER Waldo Scribante
082 802 3280
spanner@scocc.co.za
WEBMASTER Pierre Malherbe
082 497 0377
webmaster@scocc.co.za
INSURANCE (SAVVA) Chris van der Merwe
083 401 2813
insurance@scocc.co.za
GEORGE OLD CAR SHOW CHAIRMAN Alewijn Dippenaar
082 809 2441
gocs@scocc.co.za
MEDIA CO-ORDINATOR Mimi Finestone
084 583 3144
media@scocc.co.za
SOCIAL MEDIA CO-ORDINATOR Brittney Peens
076 251 5668
socialmedia@scocc.co.za
The opinions expressed in Spanner do not necessarily reflect the views of the SCOCC club committee, the editor, club members and/or officers of SAVVA or advertisers in this magazine.
From the Chairman My Perspective The 2026 George Old Car Show Celebrating the Pioneers of Motoring I often find myself thinking back to the early days of the George Old Car Show. I only missed the very first one — held in 1997 on Paul Fick’s farm “Blackwood” near Victoria Bay — and if I could turn back time, that is one event I would dearly love to attend. My own journey with the show began the following year, at the George Riding Club, where a few hundred cars gathered with a shared passion that has since grown into something truly remarkable. Standing on the showgrounds in 2026, looking out over the sea of vehicles and people, it is almost hard to believe how far we have come. As Chairman of the Southern Cape Old Car Club and co-organiser of the George Old Car Show, it once again gives me immense pride to reflect on what was a memorable and highly successful 29th George Old Car Show, held on Valentine’s Day 2026 at Eden Technical High School. This year’s theme, “The Pioneers of Motoring,” struck a special chord with enthusiasts and visitors alike. Celebrating 140 years since the invention of the first motorcar by Carl Benz in 1886, together with the Centenary of Mercedes-Benz, created a powerful narrative — taking us right back to where it all began. Not even an early morning rain shower could dampen the spirit of the day. In true George fashion — where “CAW” might as well stand for Cold And Wet — the weather kept us guessing, but the passion of our exhibitors and visitors shone through. Their commitment to attend and support the show, despite the conditions, is something I deeply appreciate.
The centrepiece display, commemorating 140 years of Innovation, proved to be one of the highlights of the show. Seeing the evolution from the humble beginnings of the Benz Patent-Motorwagen through to the elegance and engineering excellence of later Mercedes-Benz models was something truly special. The display featuring the 1886 Patent-Motorwagen, 1901 Benz Ideal, 1913 Benz 8/20 PS Tourenwagen, and the exceptional pre-war Mercedes-Benz vehicles drew constant attention throughout the day. For many, the undeniable star of the show was the magnificent 1935 Mercedes-Benz 500K Special Roadster — a rare and breathtaking example that captured the imagination of all who saw it. Another significant highlight was the celebration of 50 years of the Mercedes-Benz W123, with an impressive line-up of these iconic, locally assembled vehicles proudly on display. It was wonderful to see the strong following this model still enjoys in South Africa. The 20th edition of the Vettoer, organised by Philip Kuschke, once again proved to be a cornerstone of the weekend. This unique tour, reserved for vehicles manufactured without front brakes, continues to embody the true spirit of early motoring. This year’s route from Prince Albert to George, led symbolically by the Benz Patent-Motorwagen, perfectly set the tone for our Pioneer theme. In the true spirit of the 2026 GOCS‘s theme – “Pioneers of Motoring”, we had 62, an amazing collection of Veteran and Vintage vehicles from 1901 to 1936 on display on the main field. As always, what makes this show truly special is the people. From exhibitors showcasing their treasured vehicles, to families enjoying a day out, to collectors sharing stories and knowledge — the George Old Car Show remains a meeting place for all who share a passion for motoring heritage. I would like to extend my sincere thanks to every exhibitor, participant, stallholder, and visitor who contributed to making this event such a success. Your support ensures that the show continues to grow and remain one of the premier classic motoring events in South Africa. A heartfelt word of appreciation must also go to our sponsors and partners, particularly MUA Insurance Acceptances (Pty) Ltd and the George Municipality & George Tourism, whose continued support allows us to elevate the show year after year.
A show of this magnitude simply does not happen without the dedication of an exceptional team of people who willingly give of their time and talents. First and foremost, I would like to acknowledge my co-organiser, Alewijn Dippenaar. His tireless enthusiasm, meticulous planning and outstanding organisational skills have once again been instrumental in delivering a first-class event. It is a privilege to work alongside someone so passionate about the George Old Car Show. Equally deserving of recognition is our Media Coordinator, Mimi Finestone. Her boundless enthusiasm, attention to detail and exceptional marketing and communication skills have played a significant role in the continued growth and success of the show. Alewijn and Mimi are an incredible team, and I cannot thank them enough for their dedication and friendship. My sincere appreciation also goes to my fellow Southern Cape Old Car Club committee members. Chris and Rensche Kühn once again managed the busy exhibitors' entrance at Gate A with their customary efficiency, while also overseeing our hospitality tent. Willie van Zyl expertly managed the show's finances, Japie van Rooyen Jnr ensured our regalia operation ran smoothly, and Pierre and Wilna Malherbe welcomed thousands of visitors while coordinating the public entrance. Finally, my heartfelt thanks go to every member of the Southern Cape Old Car Club who attended the show. Whether you helped with parking, registration, logistics, setting up displays, welcoming visitors or simply stepped in wherever a helping hand was needed, your contribution made a difference. This is our show. It belongs to every member of our club, and its continued success is only possible because so many people are willing to roll up their sleeves and work together. I would also like to extend my gratitude to our beneficiary organisations and community partners — Rotary, Round Table, the Vryburgers, Eden Technical High School, Carpe Diem School, Glenwood Preparatory School, Firstcare Wildfire Support and the SPCA. Their commitment and volunteer spirit not only ensure the smooth running of the event, but also reinforce what the George Old Car Show has always been about: giving something back to our community. One of the aspects I value most about this show is the sense of camaraderie. It is about reconnecting with friends, meeting new enthusiasts, and sharing in the stories behind these incredible machines. Time and again, visitors approach you with a story -
- “my father had one of these” — and in that moment, you realise that these cars are more than just vehicles; they are part of our shared history. The success of the 2026 show once again enabled us to contribute meaningfully to our supporting organisations and community partners, reinforcing the important role this event plays beyond the showgrounds. As I left the showgrounds that afternoon, with the last exhibitors making their way home and the fields slowly becoming quiet again, I couldn't help but reflect on how privileged we are. For one day each year, George becomes the meeting place of South Africa's motoring heritage. Old friendships are renewed, new ones are forged, stories are shared, and another chapter is added to the history of the George Old Car Show. That, more than the number of vehicles or visitors, is what makes this event so special. Planning for the 30th George Old Car Show is already underway. I hope you will join us on 13 February 2027, as together we continue preserving and celebrating our motoring heritage for generations to come. Until then, thank you for being part of this incredible journey — and for helping us keep the spirit of the pioneers of motoring alive.
Waldo Scribante Chairman: Southern Cape Old Car Club
TORQUE FROM THE TREASURER
Beste Klublede,
Dear Members,
'n Vriendelike herinnering dat die 2026lidmaatskapfooi R275 per lid beloop. Ons versoek alle lede om hul jaarlikse ledegeld so spoedig moontlik te betaal. Lede wie se lidmaatskapfooie nie teen 30 Junie 2026 betaal is nie, sal ongelukkig van die klub se databasis en WhatsApp verwyder word.
This is a friendly reminder that the 2026 annual membership fee is R275 per member. We kindly ask all members to ensure that their annual subscription is paid as soon as possible. Members whose subscriptions have not been received by 30 June 2026 will unfortunately be removed from the Club's membership database and WhatsApp.
Dankie vir u volgehoue ondersteuning van die Suid-Kaapse Oumotorklub.
Thank you for your continued support of the Southern Cape Old Car Club.
R275.00 SCOCC Banking Details Southern Cape Old Car Club ABSA George 632 005 Cheque account 890 167 551 IF IN DOUBT CONTACT Marlize Herholdt 076 764 0897
New Membership Application
SPANNER ADVERTENSIE TARIEWE PER UITGAWE VOLKLEUR BLAD A4 HALFBLAD KLEUR A5 (Landscape)
KWARTBLAD KLEUR A6 (Portrait)
R1500 R750 R500
New Year's Brunch Braai 1 January 2026 "Panorama" -Waboomskraal
The Southern Cape Old Car Club once again welcomed the New Year in the best possible way – surrounded by good friends, great conversations and a shared passion for motoring. Members gathered at the Engen Garage in Heather Park before departing in convoy to Peter Boshoff’s farm “Panorama” in Waboomskraal, where Peter and Nadia warmly welcomed everyone. The January sunshine made for a perfect summer's day, while the SCOCC's distinctive yellow hospitality tent provided welcome shade and became the social hub of the morning. Members enjoyed a relaxed bring-and-braai breakfast, catching up after the festive season and admiring Peter's impressive collection of classic and interesting vehicles, which is always a highlight of the visit. A heartfelt thank you to Peter and Nadia for their exceptional hospitality and the effort they put into preparing for the day. Your generosity and friendship made for a memorable start to 2026, and we are truly grateful for your continued support of the Southern Cape Old Car Club.
2026 George Old Car Show Garden Route Mall Exhibit A Star Before the Show
20th VETTOER A Celebration of South Africa's Motoring Heritage The 20th VETTOER, proudly organised by Philip Kuschke and generously sponsored by the SCRIBS BENZeum, once again proved why it has become one of South Africa's premier veteran motoring events. Held on 13 February 2026, the tour took participants from the historic town of Prince Albert, through the spectacular Meiringspoort, over the Outeniqua Pass and into George, where the vehicles formed part of the George Old Car Show celebrations. This milestone event attracted a record 41 veteran entries, including seven pre-1936 motorcycles, making it the largest and most diverse VETTOER to date. What made the 2026 tour particularly remarkable was the extraordinary collection of early motoring history on display. Rarely, if ever, has South Africa witnessed five vehicles built before 1910 travelling together on public roads. Leading the field were an 1886 Benz, 1901 Benz, 1904 De Dion-Bouton, 1906 Stanley Steamer, and 1907 Nordenfelt. For spectators lining the streets of Prince Albert, it was a journey back to the very dawn of motoring, with vehicles that are seldom even seen in museums, let alone driven. The presence of these pioneering motor cars was made even more significant through the support of Mercedes-Benz South Africa Ltd, which joined the 20th VETTOER as part of its 140 Years of Innovation celebrations. The company brought its 1886 Benz Patent-Motorwagen replica to Prince Albert, where it was reunited with the only two other veteran Benz motor cars in South Africa – the 1901 Benz Ideal, owned by the Crankhandle Club in Cape Town, and Waldo and René Scribante's 1913 Benz 8/20 PS. Before the start of the tour, René Scribante had the unique privilege of driving both the Patent-Motorwagen and her lovingly nicknamed "Benzie", creating a memorable tribute to the origins of the motor car. The sight of these three historic Benz motor cars together was undoubtedly one of the defining moments of the 20th VETTOER. Our sincere appreciation goes to Vorster van Zyl for capturing this historic occasion with a remarkable collection of photographs that will preserve these memories for years to come. The quality of the entry list extended well beyond these pioneers. No fewer than eleven Ford Model Ts participated, ranging from a 1910 model to one of the last examples built in 1926. They were joined by an impressive selection of veteran marques including Benz, Rover, Belsize, Talbot-Darracq, Falcon Knight, Dodge Brothers, Austin and Ford Model A. Participants travelled from across South Africa, from Cape Town and the Eastern Cape to Gauteng, Limpopo and KwaZulu-Natal, while the event also welcomed an overseas visitor from Germany who experienced the tour as a passenger.
The motorcycle contingent added another memorable dimension to the event. A record seven veteran motorcycles took to the road, their distinctive exhaust notes echoing through Meiringspoort alongside the veteran cars. Among them was Bev Jacobs, proudly representing the ladies on her 1935 Triumph, while the oldest motorcycles on the tour were a 1926 BSA and 1928 BSA, ridden by the father-and-son Rocher team. As always, the VETTOER was about far more than the destination. Participants gathered in Prince Albert on the Thursday evening to renew friendships, welcome newcomers and prepare for one of South Africa's most scenic veteran motoring routes. Friday morning brought an atmosphere of excitement as the convoy assembled in front of the Swartberg Hotel before setting off towards George. Driving a veteran vehicle is never without its challenges. Radiators required frequent topping up, engines demanded roadside attention, starting handles saw plenty of use and, on occasion, fellow participants gladly lent a helping hand to push-start reluctant engines. The climb over the Outeniqua Pass tested both machines and drivers, while an unrelated traffic incident on the descent required careful navigation and placed every braking system under scrutiny. Despite the inevitable mechanical challenges that accompany vehicles more than a century old, the spirit of camaraderie ensured that every participant reached George safely. On arrival in George, participants enjoyed refreshments at Deacon House, before the traditional conclusion of the VETTOER with an evening of fellowship at the home of Waldo and René Scribante. During the Friday evening braai at the Scribs BENZeum, Philip Kuschke was honoured with a specially commissioned commemorative plaque in recognition of organising all twenty VETTOERs since the inaugural event in 2006. His vision, dedication and unwavering enthusiasm over two decades have established the VETTOER as one of South Africa's most respected veteran motoring events. As the VETTOER celebrates its twentieth edition, it is worth reflecting on its broader significance. Beyond the magnificent machinery, the tour preserves an important part of South Africa's motoring heritage by demonstrating that these remarkable vehicles were built to be driven, not simply displayed. Every kilometre travelled inspires spectators, encourages new enthusiasts and reminds us that we are merely custodians of these historic machines. The VETTOER has also inspired many enthusiasts over the years. Several participants who first encountered the tour as spectators have since become proud owners of veteran vehicles and active members of their respective marque clubs. This enduring enthusiasm ensures that these magnificent machines will continue to grace South Africa's roads for generations to come. The 20th VETTOER was a fitting celebration of two decades of preserving, showcasing and enjoying veteran motoring. It was not only a tribute to the vehicles themselves, but also to the dedicated owners, volunteers and supporters who continue to keep this unique tradition alive. Twenty tours have celebrated our motoring past and inspired generations of enthusiasts. On Friday, 12 February 2027, the 21st VETTOER will once again set the wheels of history in motion for another unforgettable journey through the Southern Cape. Until then, here's to the next twenty years of preserving and celebrating our motoring heritage!
2026 VETTOER Spit Braai SCRIBS BENZeum Friday, 13 February 2026
Celebrating 50 years of the Legendary W123 with MUA @ Lourensford Wine Estate On Saturday, 21 March 2026, the Southern Cape Old Car Club, together with the Western Cape region of the Mercedes-Benz Club, celebrated the 50th Anniversary of the iconic W123 at the beautiful Lourensford Wine Estate. A highlight of the day was the raffle of a pris ne 1985 Mercedes-Benz 230E (W123), proudly sponsored by MUA, main sponsor of the 2026 George Old Car Show. The draw was conducted by MUA CEO Vajra Singh, with the lucky winner being Mohammed Ali Royker of Cape Town — congratula ons! In a remarkable gesture, all proceeds from the raffle were donated by MUA to support our beneficiary organisa ons. Thank you to everyone who par cipated and helped make this celebra on of a true motoring legend so special. Southern Cape - Celebrating 140 years of innovation
Breakfast run Saturday, 11 April 2026 Coffee at the The Pizza & Donut Den & Breakfast @ Magrietjies Padstal
Bonnets Up! Bring ‘n Braai @ ‘die BENZ’ & Garden Route ALFA ROMEO Club Sunday: 26 April 2026
Bonnets Up! Bring ‘n Braai @ ‘die BENZ’ & Eden Classic Car group Sunday: 31 May 2026
14de Erfenistoer 2026 Heritage on the Move – The Great South African Erfenistoer – A Journey to Baía Formosa Elke Erfenistoer vertel 'n nuwe verhaal. Dit is 'n verhaal van motors wat dekades oorbrug, van paaie wat geskiedenis dra, en van mense wat deur 'n gedeelde passie vir ons motorerfenis vriende word. Dit is daarom vir my 'n besondere voorreg om u uit te nooi na die 14de Erfenistoer. Van 21 tot 24 September 2026 volg ons 'n besonderse roete vanaf George, deur die hart van die Klein Karoo, na die historiese dorpie Steytlerville, verder na Cape St Francis en uiteindelik na die kusdorp Plettenbergbaai – die baai wat die Portugese seevaarder Manuel da Mesquita Perestrello reeds in 1576 as Baía Formosa ("Pragtige Baai") beskryf het. Hierdie reis verbind nie net unieke landskappe nie, maar ook eeue van SuidAfrikaanse geskiedenis en motorkultuur. Onderweg wag daar ervarings wat elke dag besonders sal maak: die rustige Karoogasvryheid van Steytlerville, 'n besoek aan Volkswagen se indrukwekkende AutoPavilion in Kariega, die ikoniese vuurtoring en kuslyn van Cape St Francis, die asemrowende Tsitsikamma-roete en, as hoogtepunt, 'n onvergeetlike seekosfees by Enrico's op Keurboomstrand. Ons sluit die toer af by die BENZ, waar ons Nasionale Braaidag op gepaste wyse saam vier met 'n tradisionele Pig on the Spit. Die Erfenistoer gaan egter oor veel meer as die bestemmings op die kaart. Dit gaan oor die stories wat langs die pad ontstaan, die lag om 'n koffietafel, die bewondering vir mekaar se motors en die vriendskappe wat jaar ná jaar sterker word. Dit is hierdie gees van kameraadskap wat die Erfenistoer so besonders maak. Geen toer van hierdie omvang gebeur vanself nie. My opregte waardering gaan aan die Erfenistoer-komitee, en veral aan Chris en Rensche Kühn, vir hul deeglike beplanning en toewyding. Ek bedank ook die bestuur en lede van die Suid-Kaap Oumotorklub vir hul ondersteuning, asook Mark Jones, ons gewaardeerde hoofborg, Halfway Toyota George, wie se volgehoue betrokkenheid hierdie toer jaar ná jaar help moontlik maak. Mag hierdie vier dae gevul wees met veilige kilometers, uitstekende geselskap, nuwe ontdekkings en herinneringe wat nog lank ná die laaste stop met ons sal saamry. Kom ons vier weer saam ons gedeelde motorerfenis, die skoonheid van ons land en die besondere voorreg om hierdie reis met mekaar te deel.
2026 Erfenistoer – “Heritage on the Move The Great South African Erfenistoer A Journey to Baía Formosa” Toerprogram 21 – 24 September 2026 Maandag, 21 September 2026 7:30 Ontmoet by HalfwayGeorge vir ligte ontbyt & koffie 08:00 – Scrutineering Dress code: Erfenistoer-hemde 09:00 – Vertrek George na de Rust via Outenquapas 12:30 – Middagete , Kaput - Willowmore Na middagete: Vertrek na finalebestemming Royal Hotel, Steyterville 18:00 – Drinks 19:30 – Aandete Dress code: TBA
Dinsdag, 22 September 2026 07:30 – Ontbyt 09:00 – Vertrek Steyterville na Cape St Francis 11:00 Stop vir besoek aan VW Auto Pavillion en VW aanleg 12:00 – Ligte middagete Na middagete: Vertrek na finale bestemming Port of Cape St Francis Harbour Club 19:00 – Aandete
Woensdagdag, 23 September 2026 07:30 – Ontbyt 09:00 – Vertrek Cape St Francis na Plettenbergbaai via Nature Valley 10:00 – Besoek Birds of Eden 13:00 – Middagete by TBA Na middagete: Vertrek na finale bestemming The Plett Quarter Hotel and Apartments - Lion Roars Hotels and Lodges, Plettenbergbaai 19:00 – Aandete by Enrico Ristorante, Keurboomstrand
Donderdag, 24 September 2026 07:30 – Ontbyt 10:00 – Vertrek na die BENZ, George 12:00 – Gala middagete - Spitbraai
Einde van program – Veilige reis terug!
1500km in a 1934 Austin Ten March 2026. Ron Gush I loove a loong jaunt in my Austin! Fortunately Pam does too. The George Old Car Show, the VetToer and a few days in Wilderness was a perfect formula! Serviced the car, checked wheel bearings, adjusted the brakes, cleaned the generator commutator and replaced a broken exhaust hanger. Generally looked for trouble and fixed it. Better to find it at home than on the road! The VetToer (Afrikaans pronunciation) is hosted by the SCOCC and is open to pre 1930 cars and bikes. Cars with brakes on rear wheels only. It was suggested that my 1934 Ten might be accepted and it was, as were a few Model A Fords and Austins! This year the tour was from Prince Albert to the George Old Car Show. We planned the trip: 50km/hour, 300km/day, is doable with no stress. 1st day 290 km Cape Town to Swellendam via Clarence Drive along the coast. 2nd day 230km on the N2 to Wilderness to spend a few days with Pam's brother and sister-inlaw. 5th day 190km to Prince Albert to join the VetToer. 6th day 170km on the VetToer to George with 40 beautiful Veterans. 7th day George Old Car Show 8th day 270km to Swellendam including a 50km detour to avoid some of the N2. 9th day 290km home via Stanford, Hermanus and Clarence drive. I packed some tools and spares, including a cylinder head gasket! I'd had some gasket problems and was currently running an old, used gasket. So I was feeling a little vulnerable. If you don't want the blow by blow, you may stop reading now. If you love road tripping and classic motoring and machinery, read on. Sunday morning. Pam and I set off at about 10am, after Church. The N2 wasn't too bad and Clarence drive was magnificent. No whales seen. Pulled over when I could, to allow faster cars to go. Actually, most drivers were happy to see a lovely classic on the road and they hooted and waved and took photos. Nobody hooted in anger on the entire trip. Stopped at a lay bye and brewed our own coffee – grind beans, plunger, hot water from a flask. Doesn't every body make picnic coffee that way? 5.30pm, checked into Lulu Garden Cottage in Swellendam – a very nice, comfortable, simple, self catering stop over spot.
Monday at 07h30 we were on the road in the rain. It rained hard again after George. At Albertinia fuel and coffee stop, a bus load of German tourists were fascinated by our Austin. Language difference prevented easy chatter but we were able to share facts and a story or 2. Stopped in Mossel Bay to buy a few kg of coffee beans. Mr Baruch himself came out to greet us and admire our car! Lunch at the Red Berry Farm near George. Their robotic lawn mower in action caught our attention! Checked into The Dunes in Wilderness at 4pm. Tuesday. Walked the Brown Hooded Kingfisher trail. About 2 km through the forest to a very pretty waterfall. Knysna loerie, or whatever it is called these days, was spotted along the way. Wednesday. Caught the Power Van – a diesel powered 2 coach mini train - up the Outeniqua rail track. Picnic stop along the way. Almost to the top. Spectacular views from the Van. This rail was/is the main line between Oudtshoorn and George and I realised that this was the second time I had travelled that line. The first was on a troop train with the First City Regiment to take part in the RSA 10 year celebration in Cape Town on 31 may 1971. Thursday. Set off from Wilderness in pouring rain. Rained all the way up the Outeniqua Pass. Our one and only wiper blade falling apart and needed attention. Meirings Poort was lovely as usual – always makes me feel like singing a few lines of our National Anthem! Checked in to the VetToer at the Irish Bush Pub in Prince Albert.
We knew lots of folk and met several new friends. Great to meet Keith and Sharon Schröder who had trailered their Austin 7 from the West Rand. It was wonderful to hear that he drives his Seven happily around the West Rand and without fear. I'd been led to believe that this was simply suicidal! Well done Keith! Adrian Denness also trailered his Seven from Paarl. Adrian's Seven is often seen on rallies and tours in the Cape. Drivers had been arranged by the SCOCC to drive modern vehicles with trailers from Prince Albert to George if needed. Many thanks were expressed to the organisers Philip Kuschke, Waldo Scribante and their team for their planning, hard work and sponsorship of this event and the George Old Car Show. Friday morning was an emotional event. Cars assembled for the VetToer on the main street in Prince Albert. The oldest was an exact replica of the earliest petrol engined car – an 1886 Benz. Also on the road were the 1901 Benz and 1902 Wolseley from the CHC. Followed by a 1904 De Dion Bouton, 1907 Nordenfelt and a 1908 Stanley Steamer. I can't list them all. Model Ts were the most popular but all vehicles were magnificent. 33 cars and 7 bikes, the most entrants ever. It is one thing to see really old cars in a museum, but seeing and hearing them and smelling them driving up and down the main street, drivers clearly having fun, brought a lump to my throat. I must be getting old... The drive back to George was lovely travelling with Veteran cars. Some of the oldest cars were trailered. We stopped in Klaarstroom for a comfort break. When did you last stop in Klaarstroom? We miss so much in our modern haste.
Going down the Outeniqua Pass had one hairy moment. We came around a bend and the road was completely blocked. A truck had shunted a modern car and 2 more modern cars were backed up across the road. Tested the brakes to the limits! Fortunately no one was injured and no Vets piled into the back of the mess. I think one T damaged his diff in the emergency stop. Was I glad that I'd serviced my cable brakes? Saturday. The George Old Car Show was noisy and busy and nice to find old friends and wander around the exhibits and save some money by not buying anything on the auto jumble that I did not need. It's a great event. Sunday. The R102 to Mossel Bay was nice and quiet. Then the N2. By the time we got to Riversdale we'd had enough. Aha! If we turn right we could drive up Garcia Pass, go almost to Ladismith, turn left and back through Barrydale and over the Tradouw Pass to Swellendam. That was a no brainer, we turned right. Then we thought - that means Pam thought - there is a dirt road that cuts off the long tar road to and from Ladismith. How bad can 33km of dirt be? Um, in an Austin Ten?We decided to give it a go, and go slow, and if too rocky turn back. It turned out to be a lovely drive. No traffic at all, except for 1 or 2 farmers' bakkies which don't count as traffic. 30km/h kept the suspension quiet. Slower where it was rough. The rear axle only lost the plot once. No parts fell off the car and we arrived safely in Barrydale for a nice lunch at the Karoo Daisy. Everybody goes to the Diesel and Creme and so the parking there was wall to wall. Over the Tradouw Pass to Swellendam for another night at Lulu Cottage. Monday. The N2 is ok. One can drive left of the yellow line and let the fast cars and trucks go. But the coastal road via Stanford, Hermanus and Clarence drive is so much, much nicer. Stopped for coffee with friends in Rooi Els. Then, at Somerset West, onto the N2 for home. The Austin never missed a beat. Well, I did ream the compensating jet twice to rectify a slight misfire. Some time ago I'd soldered the jet and poked a sewing needle through to (over!) correct too rich mixture. And nipped the windscreen wiper blade fastening. Lovely trip.
WELKOM / WELCOME Lys van nuwe lede Suid-Kaap Oumotorklub 2026
In MEMORIA 2026
Naas van Zyl - Mosselbaai
BIRTHDAYS VERJAARSDAE Ons wens die volgende lede ‘n gelukkige verjaarsdag en ‘n gesonde jaar toe. We wish the following members a happy birthday and a healthy year:
If your name is not here, your Identity Number is not on our records / Indien u naam nie hier verskyn nie, is u Identiteitsnommer nie op ons rekords nie.
Founded 3rd June 1988
BIRTHDAYS VERJAARSDAE
Ons wens die volgende lede ‘n gelukkige verjaarsdag en ‘n gesonde jaar toe. We wish the following members a happy birthday and a healthy year:
If your name is not here, your Identity Number is not on our records / Indien u naam nie hier verskyn nie, is u Identiteitsnommer nie op ons rekords nie.
EVENTS Year Planner 1st Quarter 2026 Program subject to change Please watch WhatsApp events group for updated events or contact: Chris Kühn
EVENTS Year Planner 2nd Quarter 2026 Program subject to change Please watch WhatsApp events group for updated events or contact: Chris Kühn
UPCOMING EVENTS
UPCOMING EVENTS
FM
Honouring the past, embracing the future.
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