Integrated Report 2024

Mokala Bush Concert presented by the Free State Region During a working weekend in the Mokala National Park, under a big Camelthorn Tree, the idea arose to give members of the public the unique opportunity to gather under the stars in the heart of the park. There were three objectives: • To give guests an unforgettable close-to-nature experience, • To feature artists who are happy to perform from a make-shift stage, making this an unusual highlight on their calendar, • To bring visitors to the park and raise muchneeded funds for the park. Organising such an event is not without its challenges - how to prepare meals, provide ablutions and arrange lighting in a bush setting. The region’s members, believing in the dream, pooled their resources. Some built fences, others put up lights, while a dedicated team attended to the catering - and the Mokala Bush Concert was born. From the first notes sung by Chris Chameleon under the stars on the night of April 18 2015, the concert has been a winner. Every subsequent concert has been completely booked out. The event offers a full weekend in the park. It includes a braai the Friday evening and a breakfast at Mosu Lodge on Saturday morning. The highlight is, of course, the concert on the Saturday evening. A sumptuous meal is served, accompanied by music, entertainment and sponsored wines. This exclusive event is limited to 100 seats, with many guests returning year after year. Previous guests are offered preferential bookings for the next event. The funds that are generated make a big difference to the conservation efforts in the Mokala National Park. Contact Dirk Bredenkamp dbredenkamp@lantic.net SANParks Honorary Rangers 2024 129 MOKALA BUSH CONCERT

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