Thrills, spills and dusty grills

Off-road enthusiasts were treated to an exclusive once-a-year treat as Koeberg Nature Reserve opened its gates for the annual NSRI 4x4 fundraising event for Station 18 (Melkbosstrand).

The NSRI’s 20th annual 4x4 Day at Koeberg Nature Reserve was a roaring success, leaving everyone with a dusty grin on Saturday, 9 September.

The event has been tearing up the dunes of Koeberg Nature Reserve for two decades now (careful not to damage any protected flora and fauna, of course) – it's a tradition that off-road enthusiasts eagerly anticipate each year. The Koeberg Nature Reserve dunes are typically off-limits to the public, which makes the NSRI's 4x4 Day all the more special: it’s the only time during the year when adventure-seekers are granted the keys to this off-road treasure trove.

“The driving route weaves through the reserve's rolling sand dunes, presenting a series of challenges that will put even the most seasoned drivers to the test,” says Station 18 Commander Hein Köhne. “The attraction of this unique experience is so strong that tickets for the event are known to sell out within a week of being advertised!”

This year's event was made possible by the generous sponsorship of Mitsubishi Paarden Island; their rugged and dependable 4x4s proved to be the perfect companions for this engine-revving event.

(Pssst: in case you didn’t know, the NSRI is giving away two Mitsubishi vehicles in their annual car competition. Click here to enter.)

This year, the event raised an impressive R108 000, making it not only a day of fun but also an incredible charitable effort.

“As always, it was very well attended,” says NSRI community fundraiser Renée Leeuwner. “There were six slots with 15 vehicles per slot. Each slot had a 30-minute safety briefing before they departed, with the Group Alpha departing at 8:30am.”

By all accounts, it was a fun and exciting day for 4x4 enthusiasts to test their metal on the dunes, with only a few vehicles requiring assistance off the course.

“There were several repeat participants who commented that it is always a highlight for them, and something that they look forward to,” says Renée, whose father, 85, also took part in the fun. “He spent six hours on the course and came back glowing!”

Hein emphasises that the success of this event would not be possible without the unwavering support of dedicated partners and the crew of Station 18. Koeberg Nature Reserve deserves a special mention for granting access to the Reserve, allowing the public to experience its wonders. Additionally, the Landcruiser Club has been an invaluable partner, year after year, in helping to manage and guide the participants on the day, ensuring that this adventure remains accessible and enjoyable for all participants.

“In a world that's becoming increasingly urbanised, opportunities to connect with nature and challenge ourselves in the great outdoors are more precious than ever,” says Hein. “The annual 4x4 day offers not only a thrilling day of exploration but also a chance to support a vital cause while forging lasting memories with fellow enthusiasts. This event acts as the NSRI Melkbosstrand's most substantial fundraiser of the year. The NSRI plays a pivotal role in saving lives at sea, and the proceeds from this event are a direct lifeline to their rescue efforts. Participants not only enjoy an incredible day of 4x4 driving with their families and friends but also take pride in knowing they are supporting a worthy cause.”

The dedication of the crew at Station 18 is immeasurable, adds Hein, and he deeply values their unwavering commitment to the organisation.

Be sure to mark your calendars for next year!