A group of around 70 staff members and children from Abraham Kriel Children’s Home Nylstroom set off before dawn on 27 November for a long-planned holiday to Gqeberha (formerly Port Elizabeth). Groups were allocated to buses, pillows and blankets were sorted, and a final safety check was done to ensure that the trailers were securely hitched, the lights were working and vehicles were properly locked. With fairy lights flickering here and there along the route, the convoy set off into the darkness.

As the kilometres slipped by, the buses grew quiet. After a short coffee and comfort stop, vetkoek with mince and a cold drink were handed out at the next stop – a simple but welcome meal for hungry travellers. Back on the bus, with sweet treats close at hand, spirits lifted again: chatting, singing together and swapping stories. For many, the wait to see the sea for the first time felt simply too long.

The first overnight stop was at the Merino Inn (Chargo) in Colesberg, where Charles van den Hever and his team welcomed our group warmly. Their hospitality was exceptional. Later the next afternoon, we reached our destination – and at that first glimpse of the sea, there was a deep sense of gratitude that our group had arrived safely.

The programme in Gqeberha quickly gained momentum. The children received basic first-aid training and also had the opportunity to practise CPR on training manikins. Hugo and Tiaan’s presentations were taken seriously; the procedures used with babies, in particular, drew keen interest.

Beach days were not only for relaxation, but also for training. Gazebos were anchored deep in the sand to create shelter from the wind. Here, Gordon Potgieter, a lifeguard, guided the group on sea safety, drowning prevention and what to do in an emergency. Emergency numbers and key guidelines were shared, and the children listened attentively.

When the wind later turned too cold, the buses headed to the lighthouses, where everyone took photos and explored other sights. At SANCCOB, the group learnt more about the threats to penguins’ survival and the rehabilitation of injured birds. Afterwards, they visited a military aircraft museum, where Henry Soni and Mike Bayes (volunteers and friends of the SAAFM) shared fascinating background on the aircraft.

There was, of course, time for fun and relaxation too: a cinema outing and visits to Splash Waterworld, Gravity World and Crossways Farm Village, where the children browsed the stalls and enjoyed the special atmosphere at each venue.

When the engines began to idle on the day we left, farewells were inevitable and heavy: a few tears, hugs and promises of “see you again” before the buses headed home.

Our sincere thanks go to every donor and supporter who played a part in these unforgettable 10 days at the seaside.

A special word of thanks goes to Irvin Tam and his team for their ongoing support and involvement, as well as to our other sponsors – especially Amy Bell Charities and PHASA. We also extend our heartfelt appreciation to every person who contributed in any way, whether through donations, refreshments, meals, treats or practical care.

It was a holiday everyone will remember.