Skip to content Tribute To A Precious Home
Presented by Johan Mostert
Tonight we are all gathered here with one shared feeling in our hearts — we are incredibly proud to be part of one of Pretoria’s finest retirement villages. A place that, even before visitors have properly greeted us, makes them exclaim: “Wow, you live in a beautiful place!”
THE VISION OF A HOME
We start at the foundation. This place is not just another retirement village. Thanks to the vision of the developer, Werner Pauw, Faerie Glen Renaissance has not become a hostel — but rather a living world with character and grace. The architectural style and open spaces create an atmosphere that makes the village a real home for us.
A PROVEN RECORD OF MANAGEMENT
Throughout the years, there have been exceptional leaders. From Bill Heunis in 2001 to today’s leadership — the torch has been passed on with pride and duty. André Fourie, Louis van Rooyen, Chris Garbers, At Louw, Mauritz de Vries, Jeannette Nel… each one left their mark. I also had the privilege of serving two full terms as chairperson. And then there are all those vice-chairpersons and secretaries—people like Annatjie Haasbroek, who make sure that no word is ever lost.
One chairperson who deserves special mention is Jeannette Nel, who served on the Board of Trustees for fourteen years. She was, among other things, secretary, vice-chairperson, and for several years chairperson. She was also editor of Bonusjare and still keeps record of the history of the village. We are truly grateful for her excellent legacy.
We also honor our loyal administrative team — people like Marinda, Dirk, Thomas, Johannes, Matthews — all whose dedication has spanned years. Our library proudly bears the name of one of our founding figures: Francois van Tonder. He and Jeannette Nel worked together to get the administration off the ground. And then, the snooker room. The table was a gift from a resident. Mauritz de Vries campaigned for a snooker club from the beginning, and it still exists.
MONEY MATTERS IN RELIABLE HANDS
Financial management has always been a pillar of security for our residents. From day one, we chose the right agents — and now, under the watchful eye of Frikman Nel and Trustee Aletta Geldenhuys, we still maintain an impeccable audit record.
A CULTURE OF SELF-DOING AND TOGETHERNESS
FGR’s spirit is unique. It’s a balance between independence and community. People travel, live, donate their time — here you don’t wait for things to be done for you, you do. Margie du Plessis, Connie Mulder… just look at that beautiful wall-hanging in the hall — you have left us an art treasure.
The gardens speak of that same spirit. Marietjie van Driel and Ina Burger brought in color and life. Wynand Burger attached name tags to the indigenous trees.
SOCIAL AND COMMUNITY – THE HEARTBEAT OF THE VIILLAGE
From functions to celebrations, we always found ways to come together. Cahrima van Rooyen brought in fresh energy, and Erna van Wyk shows daily that the social side is never just a casual task.
SECURITY – VIGILANCE IS OUR SHIELD
We are privileged to live in a safe environment — something we do not take for granted. With Pieter van Driel at the helm, modern technology is used to make this Village as safe as possible. Thank you very much!
OUPA JOHAN IS THE HEART
Johan le Grange — a face of confidence on that golf cart. He has been managing this portfolio for years. His handiwork is visible everywhere: from the footpath to the neat care of the village that guests always notice.
THE COURT CASE – A MATTER OF PRINCIPLES
In the early years, it was not so easy to achieve harmony. A few residents decided that they did not want FGR to be subject to the Older Persons Act.
The dispute resulted in an uneasy rift in the Village and the Legal Entity was taken to court. Eventually, the entire dispute ended up at the Court of Appeal in Bloemfontein where the ruling was in favour of the Village.
COVID – A TIME OF TRIAL, A TIME OF UNITY
When the pandemic turned our world upside down, FGR rose as an example for other villages. A crisis committee was set up overnight and under the leadership of Jeannette Nel, that storm was masterfully managed. We look back with gratitude.
25 YEARS OF GROWTH AND GRACE
And now we stand here — 25 years later — with gratitude in our hearts. Our best wishes accompany the current trustees, under the leadership of Hans van der Merwe and Cahrima van Rooyen, who must carry on this legacy.
Finally: What makes us so proud to be here? A beautiful environment; A community of warm people; Security that creates peace of mind; and above all, Management that we can rely on.
Faerie Glen Renaissance: 25 years old
Summarized by Jeannette Nel
What a privilege to be able to experience this special event together with 164 fellow residents. Upon entering the hall, it was clear that a spescial event was being celebrated. Everything in white, blue and silver – fitting for the “silver wedding” of the Village! The exquisite table arrangements were done with succulents from the Village’s gardens, original and beautiful! The candlelight created an intimate atmosphere, the soft hum of spontaneous chatter and laughter told of friendship and compassion!
Hans and Cahrima did the welcoming, after which Johan Mostert gave a brief summary of the Village’s history. He also proposed a toast to the Village and the guests joined in with cheers. The table prayer by Chris Schutte expressed our gratitude to our Creator.
The curry fish appetizer served at the table by Square Time’s waiters was a treat that made the evening even more special.
The writer and poet, Albert Kloppers, then read one of his sketches. The guests had a hard time suppressing their laughter. Shaking bodies and tears of laughter were seen as they listened to the adventure he and his family had with ‘Gerberus, the “koos” and the corner in the garden’.
The main course, a buffet with dishes to pick and choose from, was served to us by the efficient staff. Three types of meat, savoury rice and a variety of vegetables. A difficult choice, because the capacity at our age is no longer geared for such a feast. And then – then came the dessert. Delicious couldn’t be more delicious!
A big thank you to our Board of Trustees who made this event possible, also to Cahrima and her willing, talented hostesses who worked so hard to make everything so beautiful.Thank you to all who attended the function. It is your presence that made this evening such a joyful and convivial occasion.
