Brikor was placed in provisional liquidation in August 2013, but made a successful turn around and started showing profit again in recent months, which compelled the company to celebrate.
Hundreds of people packed the hall of Springs Civic Centre on October 8 not only to share in the celebrations, but also to pay tribute to the former CEO of Nigel Brikor, Garnett van Niekerk Parkin, who passed away on January 17. The Parkin family established Marievale Brickworks in 1994 when land and rights to a clay deposit was acquired from Marievale Gold Mine Limited. In 1996 Garnett acquired 100% of the shareholding and under his leadership the company grew from strength to strength and listed on the JSE’s alternative exchange index (ALTX) in August 2007.
The event was opened by Ella Parkin and MC Johan Steenkamp welcomed guests. In a performance packed programme, guests were treated to a variety of song and dance by the Nigel and Donderhoek employees choirs, soloist Busisiwe Ndlovu and rhythmic dancers Caitlin Herbst and Ompile Mmusi.
After lunch, the programme drew to a close with lyrical performances by Bonginkosi Mthomeni and prayer by Zintene Bester.
It was a memorable event for both management and staff of Nigel Brikor and the joyful ambience lasted long after the last bus returned to Nigel.

Caitlin Herbst in action on stage during a lively dance performance.

Rhythmic dancers Joseph Xaba, Phumudza Matshera, Vumela Mathebula, Sibusiso Zwane, Mpho Mashimoke, Franklin Krige, Emmanuel Buffelbout, Lebogang Pala, Nzuko Zono and Caroline Motsoeneng on stage during a performance at the Brikor thanksgiving event.