The crèche currently caters for 68 children between the ages of 18 months and five years, with a mere five teachers to care for them. For these tiny tots, it was a joyous day when they could relocate to the new facility, a day made even more special by the presence of dignitaries and the SA Police band.
Mossel Bay's Executive Mayor, Alderlady Marie Ferreira, expressed the wish that the new facility will benefit everyone in the community and will lead to the dreams and aspirations of the children becoming a reality.
"May we see many professional people emerge from these little ones - a future leader, a future president; they are our future," she added.
Col Braaf, the commanding officer of KwaNonqaba Police station, not only commended his staff for their involvement with the project, but added that the centre will serve as a meaningful resource for the whole community and especially everyone living within close proximity. He added that the SAPS's core responsibility is the prevention of crime and that putting an end to crime benefits everyone in the community. He called on the community to take ownership of the centre.
Mark Furness, Chairman of the Mossel Bay Round Table thanked the Nomads Motorcycle Club, the organisers of the regular Buffalo Rally, and all who have contributed to the success of the project. He also alluded to the fact that education is one of the most important gifts a community can bestow on its youth, and he lauded everyone who had a hand in making the centre a success.
Mossel Bay Tourism's Marcia Holm said the Buffalo Rally is one of the most important and most popular events on the town's annual calendar.
"The Buffalo Rally has visited Mossel Bay six times since 2005. The people who come to the rally are the kind of people who like to travel and make a difference in the areas they visit. This initiative is a prime example.
"Many of the Buffalo Rally participants return for their family holidays later. As it is, the Buffalo Rally attracts more than 6 000 visitors who make a significant contribution to the town's economy, and through their presence they have certainly helped the Round Table to extend a helping had to our local community also."
Very excited about their new crèche!
ARTICLE: NICKEY LE ROUX, MOSSEL BAY ADVERTISER JOURNALIST
