October 2025 – Dee’s 50th Rally @ Kaia Manzi

What a splendid weekend it was at Kaia Manzi! By Friday, the campsite was buzzing as caravans and tents popped up faster than you could say “Where’s my mallet?” Laughter and chatter filled the air as friends caught up, fires were lit, and the good vibes rolled in.

But this wasn’t just any rally – it was Dee’s 50th birthday celebration! A few of the ladies outdid themselves, putting together 50 beautifully wrapped gifts, handed out across the weekend. Dee could hardly turn around without another surprise in her hands – a truly special way to celebrate an incredible person.

As registration kicked off, the Bush Pub was in full swing. Shooters flowed freely (as they do) while everyone tucked into foot-long cheese grillers – yes, actual foot-longs! With bellies full and smiles wide, campers drifted back to their tents and caravans as the night cooled, ready for a weekend to remember.

Saturday – Rain, Games & Dancing

Saturday morning arrived… but the weather didn’t get the memo. Cold, wet, and dreary for most of the day – yet the South Rand spirit never dampened! Without a hall, we made do under gazebos, keeping the laughter going. By the afternoon, the skies finally cleared, and we squeezed in a good old-fashioned pass-the-parcel – one for the kids, and one for the “kids at heart.”

As evening rolled in, Jaques fired up his spit braai, and soon the smell of roasting meat had everyone’s stomachs rumbling. With delicious side dishes prepared by our talented members, the rain finally behaved, and we gathered – right in the middle of the road – for a communal feast. Music played, conversation flowed, and the dance floor (or should we say dance road?) came alive with a few eager movers showing off their best footwork.

Then came the late-night fitness challenge – courtesy of Collin. The contest? Who could hold their legs up the longest? The competitors: Collin, Amy, and Courtney. There were a few others, but they didn’t last as long. The winners? Amy and Courtney – by a landslide! Collin’s feet hit the ground one too many times, so as per the bet, the girls earned the right to shave his beard. After all that food, laughter, dancing, and leg workouts, it was time to call it a night – but what a night it was!

Sunday – Sunshine & Smiles

Sunday brought perfect sunshine – just in time to dry out the tents and lift the spirits. Cathy’s Sunday School was a hit as always, with happy faces and good lessons shared. Then it was time for the Chairman’s Tea, with chairs lined up along the road, raffles drawn, and birthdays and anniversaries celebrated.

We also welcomed a new (and possibly our youngest ever) member to the South Rand family – Jessica Geyser! Welcome, we can’t wait to see you at many more rallies to come.

And then, it was fines time – always a highlight. Collin bravely stepped forward to honour his bet, with Amy and Courtney armed and ready. The beard didn’t fully disappear (it would’ve taken hours!), but he definitely left a little lighter. More laughter, more fines, and then – the inevitable packing up and goodbyes.

As always, farewells were bittersweet, but caravans, tents, and trailers soon rolled out. Hopefully with safe tows, full hearts, and smiles that’ll last until the next one.