Press Release: Stilbaai Touchies 2021
A virtual meeting was held on Thursday 14th of October 2021 and after much consultation and an in depth and thorough process, a joint decision was taken by the Hessequa Municipality, Stilbaai Tourism, Stilbaai Police, Stilbaai Sakekamer and the Stilbaai Touchies Organisers to cancel Stilbaai Touchies for 2021
With safety remaining the number one priority, it was felt that there is still too much uncertainty regarding safety at events and with the likelihood of more regulation changes between now and the 26th of December, there was a feeling that it would be impossible to manage and police the event effectively said Captain Johan Van Tonder of Stilbaai SAPS!
Whilst the decision is a big blow for tourism in the area, Mr Dries De Beer from Stilbaai tourism echoed the sentiments of Mrs Rachel Wall, Chairperson of the Stilbaai Sakekamer and Mr Johan Jacobs, the Hessequa Municipal Manager in saying that the decision had been taken with the interests of future events and the long-term sustainability of Stilbaai Touchies in mind, which will celebrate its 44th birthday in 2022.
It is a really sad day and will now be just the second time that Touchies has been cancelled since the event was called off after a hailstorm devastated Touchies in 2003, said Grahame Bobrow the event organiser since 2001. Given the serious nature of the COVID -19 pandemic and the uncertainty surrounding restrictions and the National Disaster Act, it was felt that it would have been an irresponsible decision to go forward with the event, even with the strictest safety measures being in place. Everyone is acutely aware of the impact that the event has on the town and the region in general and the decision has been taken with much care and a heavy heart said Bobrow.
Although events of this nature will not be happening during the holiday season, the town is still expecting large numbers of visitors who are looking to enjoy what Stilbaai has to offer as a premier Holiday destination.
Planning will soon start for the 2022 event, and it is hoped that things will return to normal for an extra special event next year!
For any further information, please email info@touchrugby.co.za or call 082 492 3683
Ends
Issued by the Event Organiser
