Years after the tragic passing of KwaZulu-Natal farmer Bob Gawler in a brutal 2017 attack, his generous spirit lives on through the tireless efforts of an off-road biking community that has gone to great lengths to preserve his legacy and the land he shared with them.
Ballito, South Africa (29 May 2025) – You know a man must have led a truly impactful life when, years after his passing, a community tirelessly rallies to preserve his home and transform it into a lasting legacy that will impact many generations to come.
The life of a slain farmer and family man, Bob Gawler, has been beautifully honoured by the community to which he so warmly opened his home.
The tragic passing of the KwaZulu-Natal farmer made headlines back in 2017 after he and his wife were brutally attacked in their De Mist sugar farm home in Ballito. Gawler’s passing not only shook those closest to him but left a void in the off-road biking community that he welcomed to his property for years.
According to the North Coast Courier, in a heartwarming tribute, the Glendale Off-Road Club was officially launched on Saturday at Gawler’s home, now known as “Bob’s”, formalising years of informal riding on local trails and ensuring his impactful legacy continues to benefit many more bikers.
Since the beloved farmer’s death, club members have continuously rallied to preserve his legacy and protect the land which he had shared with them.
When the property was listed for sale, riders united to support its preservation, despite the challenging circumstances and high costs involved. Together with support from business partners, they dug deep to contribute donations to secure and transform the premier off-road location, which remained so dear to them.
“Bob’s” will now officially continue to welcome endurance chasers from all over to enjoy the prime off-road biking location, in memory of a good man who not only embraced them but so graciously shared what he had with them.
Sources: North Coast Courier
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