The Story of 'Alet' - Touwsrivier's Miniature Steam Locomotive
Touwsrivier, a town with a rich railway history, celebrated its 100th anniversary in 1977. To commemorate this milestone, the then South African Railways decided to build a special miniature steam locomotive named 'Alet'. This small locomotive was created as an attraction for the centennial celebrations.
The Origin of 'Alet'
'Alet' was designed as a miniature steam locomotive but without any pulling power. Although she has a firebox and a boiler, she can only produce smoke when coal is burned inside her. During the 1977 centennial festivities, she was placed on a truck and paraded through the town, with smoke billowing from her chimney. This unique spectacle attracted visitors from far and wide.
'Alet' Forgotten for 47 Years
After the celebrations, 'Alet' was placed at the South African Railways Recreation Club in Touwsrivier, where she remained for 47 years. Few people knew about her existence, and over the years, she suffered from vandalism and neglect. Her wooden coal tender disintegrated, and various parts were stolen for scrap metal.
A Turning Point for 'Alet'
With the removal of illegal occupants from the Old Touwsrivier Recreation Club, Touwsrivier Tourism led by Christiaan du Plessis and his dedicated team, decided to rescue 'Alet'. They contacted Transnet's Heriage Collection and arranged for her relocation to the historic Gideon Joubert Park at 50 Jane Street, Touwsrivier.
'Alet' Finds a New Home
Gideon Joubert Park is the perfect new home for 'Alet', where she now stands alongside her "mother" - the historic Class 23 steam locomotive named 'Touwsrivier'. This Class 23 locomotive is one of only two remaining in South Africa.
The Challenges of the Move
Moving 'Alet' was no easy task. Since she was too large to move in one piece, she had to be cut into sections. The pieces were loaded onto a truck with the help of a loader and then reassembled and welded back together at Gideon Joubert Park. During the process, her cabin roof collapsed due to rust, but fortunately, no one was injured.
Community Heroes Save 'Alet
With the help of community volunteers such as Uncle Willie Marais, Clemens Thomas, and Jason Prins, 'Alet' was restored. They rebuilt her nose, attached new number plates and lettering, created a platform to prevent her wheels from rusting, and built a new metal coal tender. Today, she is barely recognizable from the neglected piece of scrap metal she once was.
'Alet' Today - A Tourist Attraction
In her restored glory, 'Alet' is now a beautiful addition to Touwsrivier's tourims offerings. She proudly stands next to the Class 23 steam locomotive, attracting visitors from across the Breede Valley and beyond.
Acknowledgements
The success of this project would not have been possible without the selfless hard work of Christiaan du Plessis, his team, and dedicated community members. Their efforts have ensured that 'Alet' becomes a must-see part of Touwsrivier's heritage.
An Invitation to All
Everyone - especially children - is welcome to visit 'Alet' at Gideon Joubert Park, 50 Jane Street, Touwsrivier, and witness how this unique miniature steam locomotive has been given a new lease on life.
This story of community collaboration and determination demonstrates how special heritage assets can be preserved for future generations. 'Alet' is not just a locomotive, she is a symbol of Touwsrivier's history and community spirit.
Written by: Councillor Dr. J. Kritzinger, Local Economic Development, Tourism, Arts & Culture, BVM.
Translated by: C. van der Westhuizen
Before After
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#history #steamlocomotive #alet
#heritage
ADVENTURE, EXPERIENCE, ACCOMMODATION
Amongst Afrikaans-speaking people is this saying: ‘Waar’s dit lekker?”. Well, I can most certainly answer, Touwsrivier!
Adventuring Through the Karoo
This quaint little railway town is a paradise for adventurous people. The rugged terrain, mountains, and ancient rock formations provide a perfect backdrop for exploration. Winter’s cold temperatures make it an ideal time for hiking, biking, game drives, and off-road adventures.
Cozy Accommodation
After a day of adventure, retreat to welcoming accommodations. From charming guest farms to luxurious lodges, there's a place for every preference. Picture yourself warming up before a roaring fire with a glass of wine while the frosty landscape glistens outside your window.
Stargazing under Winter Skies
One of the Karoo’s most captivating features is its night sky. With minimal light pollution, this region offers some of the best stargazing opportunities. Crisp, clear nights provide the perfect conditions for observing the Milky Way stretching across the sky. Lay back and marvel at the glittering canopy of stars and constellations.
Experience the Art of Knife Forging
For a unique and hands-on experience consider trying your hand at knife forging. This ancient craft offers a fascinating glimpse into knife and dagger making. The process is rewarding and provides a tangible souvenir of your time in Touwsrivier.
Conclusion
Touwsrivier with its winter charm and diverse offerings, is more than just a destination – it's an experience.
Embrace the magic of the Karoo and let it leave an indelible mark on your memory.
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#4x4
#hot tub
#gamedrive, #accommodation, #beautifulrocks, #chalets, #knife forging, quad-bike tours
Early the following day we departed to Gecko Rock Nature Reserve ( https://www.touwsrivertourism.co.za/stay/69-geckrock-private-nature-reserve ).
After receiving a warm welcome from the Deal family, owners of Gecko Rock Nature Reserve, Mr. Jonathan Deal explained to us when Gecko Rock Nature Reserve was established and their vision going forward.
He is also the author of "Timeless Karoo" and his passion and love for the Karoo is seen through his book. We sat down for a hearty breakfast with the Deal family, making for good conversation and stories.
Click on the link to order your copy: http://www.geckorock.co.za/
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#accommodation, #camping, #hottub, nature reserves, #shotgunshooting
#wooden-cabins
Media Educational 2024
Thanks to funding we received from Cape Winelands District Municipality we hosted a Media Educational on 17 & 18 April 2024.
We met up at Kroonplaas Restaurant with two Cape Winelands District Municipality officials ( https://capewinelands.gov.za/), Funmammasa ( https://funmammasa.co.za/) and Andre from Social Media Cape Town (https://socialmediacapetown.wordpress.com/) from the Media.
After a delicious "roosterkoek" and "moerkoffie" breakfast at Kroonplaas Restaurant (https://www.touwsrivertourism.co.za/eat/67-komkyk-restaurant), we departed for Drie Kuilen Nature Reserve ( https://www.driekuilen.co.za/ ).
Lina, Stefan and Lena greeted us and made us feel truly welcomed. We had some time available before the game drive and took our time to book in at the various accommodation available to us. Our accommodation for the night left us speechless. Every appliance you might need is there, even a dishwasher! Have a look: https://www.touwsrivertourism.co.za/stay/70-drie-kuile-nature-reserve
At two o'clock we went with the team from Drie Kuilen on an epic game drive. We had the priviledge to be the first people for a game drive in their new game drive vehicle. Wow! So much comfort, making the views even more spectacular. Vegetation combined with animals made it so much more memorable. However, to me the most spectacular things were the huge rock formations high up in the mountain. I've never seen such pretty rocks! Truly unique and unforgettable... An excursion on its own. We had a lovely picnic at the top, roaming around between these beautiful rocks.
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#beautifulrocks, #game drive
#fauna & flora, #hottub, #naturereserves
Next week it's back to school, book your stay at Kamagu Homestead now and get some well-deserved rest before school starts. Situated +- 17 km from Touwsrivier next to the N1, this homestead is ideal for group stays or family & friends' getaways.
Comfortably sleeps 17 guests, 9 adults and 8 kids.
Activities:
Introduce the kids to the farm animals & let them pick their own veggies
Billiard room
Large swimming pool
Sauna
Jacuzzi
Pizza oven
Braai pit
Please note: Aquila Private Game Reserve is only a 10 km drive from Kamagu.
Click the link below to book your stay:
Office:
023 358 1181
Cell: 076 680 6559
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#billiard table, #groupstay, #homestead, #jacuzzi, #pizza oven, #sauna
27 September 2023 the Touwsrivier Community celebrated Mrs. Magret Maritz's 117th Birthday.
In a convoy following a SAPS vehicle, Mrs. Maritz waved like royalty to the community. "Trompoppies" followed the beat of loud music coming from a car.
Aquila Private Game Reserve donated the beautiful cake. Other donors also contributed, resulting in a delicious lunch lovingly prepared in the "AGS Tehuis vir Bejaardes" kitchen.
Making Mrs. Maritz's birthday milestone even more special.
The Touwsrivier Community is truly blessed to have her spend her golden years with us. 
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community
birthday celebrations
cake
I am proud to say that our Fab Collab on Mandela Day 2023 was a huge success. 67 x Collaborators work together to clean, clothe and feed Touwsrivier and its Community.
A warm thank you for every donation and hours spend on these Projects. 
Without you none of this would have been possible.
A special thanks to Cape Winelands District Municipality, Rescue Among Many, Compassionate Hearts, Coca-Cola Peninsula Beverages and Sasko.
We also thank EMS, EFAR, SAPS, Fire & Rescue and Provincial Traffic for the Emergency Demonstration at the Touw Park Sports Ground. Grade 7 & 9 who attended now know which subjects to choose for a career path in EMS after school education.
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coca-cola peninsula beverages, community, compassionate hearts touws river, cwdm_dm, efar, ems, fire & rescue, mandela day - 2023, provincial traffic, ram
Winter in Touwsrivier
Although we do have frost, rain, hail and snow in winter, do not be discouraged. Someone once told me that one takes the most beautiful pictures in winter. The stars appear brighter and the outside smell after the rain is unforgettable.
What could be more relaxing than sitting in front of a fireplace, relaxing with a glass of red? For the more adventurous, our Member Establishments have activities to keep young and old occupied. For example horseback riding, game/safari drives, quad bike tours, 4 x 4 trails, stargazing, mountain biking, knife forging-, survival/bushcraft weekends, hiking trails, veld school, flower and succulent tours, spa treatments, etc.
We can’t wait to see you!
Book your stay on our website: https://www.touwsrivertourism.co.za/stay
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4x4, accommodation, fireplace, knife forging, mtb, spa, veld school, winter
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On Saturday, 8 October 2022, a "Potjiekos" competition was held at the NG. Church Hall in Touwsrivier. Not even the hot sun could spoil the participants enthusiasm. Thank you to the Judges and everyone who attended.
.jpeg "Winners of the Potjiekos competition")
.jpeg "Best Theme")
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bazaar, community, family, friends, "potjiekos"
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