Once threatened by broken windows, leaking pipes, and fading heritage, Norscot Manor in Fourways faced a slow decline, but the Fourways Main Reef Rotary Club stepped in, saying: ‘Not under our watch’.

Since 2022, the club’s annual two-day art fundraiser, titled: Art at The Manor, has rallied the community, bringing together schoolchildren, seasoned artists, and local businesses to save the historic landmark. Now, in its fourth year taking place on September 6 and 7, the event has become a cultural highlight, and a lifeline for Norscot Manor.

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“The idea, from the very beginning, was not just to raise money for the manor,” said Beate Schulte-Brader, one of the Rotary Club members, “but also to create a space where young learners and experienced artists could inspire one another. We want art to be a bridge between generations, and this fundraiser does exactly that.”

This year, students from six primary schools, including British International Preparatory, St Peter’s Girls’ Preparatory, The Valley Pre & Primary School, Unity College, Veritas College, and St Stithians Preparatory, will showcase their creativity alongside learners from six high schools, Fourways High, Roosevelt High, Greenside High, British International College, AISJ, and King David Victory Park. The Pretoria Chinese School is also expected to join.

The fundraiser features a silent auction of donated artworks, alongside a vibrant craft market of 20–25 vendors, offering fine art, jewellery, décor, food, fragrances, and pet products. Rotary partners, like SANParks Honorary Rangers, Walk for Life, and Rotary’s global End Polio campaign, will also exhibit their initiatives, but it’s not all about the art. The two-day celebration includes a DJ, live performances, raffles, a boerewors braai, and a children’s play area. The Secret Tea Garden, Norscot Manor’s beloved restaurant, will keep guests fuelled with food and drinks.

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From humble beginnings, raising R15 000 in 2022, the event has so far generated nearly R60 000 for essential repairs. “What started as keeping koi fish alive in the ponds has grown into a full restoration effort. We’ve repaired doors and windows, replaced broken pipes, and restored outdoor lighting. Every rand raised goes back into protecting this heritage site.”

While rising costs mean the Rotary Club can’t guarantee this year’s total, Schulte-Brader remains optimistic. “The energy and goodwill keep growing every year. This is more than an exhibition; it’s a community gathering, and together we are making sure Norscot Manor survives.”

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