Skip to content 
This past weekend was a challenging and emotional time for many communities in the Cape Winelands, particularly in and around Wellington and Paarl, as fires burned across farmland and natural areas under difficult weather conditions. Strong winds, dry vegetation and shifting fire lines created immense pressure for farmers, emergency services and residents alike.
Our thoughts were with the farmers, farmworkers and families who were affected or placed on high alert during this period. For many, fires threaten not only land and livestock, but livelihoods built over generations. The resilience, courage and cooperation shown by these communities during times like this remain deeply admirable.
A Safety-First Decision at Bergkroon Camp
During the same weekend, Go for Gold was hosting its Grade 12 camp at Bergkroon Camp, with 36 students, mentors and staff in attendance. The camp was designed to support and prepare learners as they entered a critical academic year, and the programme was progressing well.
By Saturday afternoon, all major activities and objectives of the camp had been successfully completed, ensuring that students had already gained the intended value and learning outcomes from the experience.
However, as the afternoon progressed into early evening, conditions in the area began to change. High winds increased, and ash started falling within the camp area. With fires active in the broader region, the leadership team carefully assessed the situation and potential risks.
Go for Gold made the decision to calmly and proactively evacuate the camp on Saturday evening, ending the camp earlier than planned. While the students had been transported to the camp on Friday using hired vehicles and were scheduled to be collected on Sunday, the organisation chose not to take the risk of a possible emergency evacuation later that night.
There were concerns around the time it would take to secure all transport vehicles should conditions worsen after dark, as well as the safety implications for students, mentors and staff if the situation escalated unexpectedly. In hindsight, it was clear that this early, measured decision was the right one.
Clear Communication and Calm Leadership
All parents were informed promptly of the decision, with clear communication emphasising that the safety and wellbeing of everyone at the camp was the primary consideration. The evacuation was conducted in a calm and orderly manner, ensuring that students returned safely.
Go for Gold is grateful for the understanding and support shown by parents during this time, and proud of the composure demonstrated by the students, mentors and staff throughout the process.
Holding Space for Those Affected
While the camp ended early, the events of the weekend served as a reminder of the broader realities faced by so many in our province during fire season. We stand in solidarity with the farmers and communities who were impacted, and we extend our heartfelt sympathy to all those who experienced loss, fear or disruption.
Moments like these reinforce the importance of preparedness, thoughtful decision-making and community care. As always, Go for Gold remains committed to placing people first — especially when it matters most.