LIMPOPO – Mopani Rest Camp was named the Camp of the Year during the Kruger National Park (KNP) Achievement Awards on Friday, November 1 in Skukuza.

Over 120 staff members received individual awards in categories such as outstanding service in the workplace, outstanding service to customers, bravery, best ranger post, bush camp and entrance, leadership and appreciation awards.

A Lifetime Contribution Award went to former ranger Batista Baloi who received a standing ovation for his 47 years in the organisation.

Baloi joined the KNP in 1977 and retired on a much-earned pension with an unblemished personal record at the end of June this year.

He started working as a general worker then became a field ranger, corporal, and sergeant and was eventually promoted to assistant section ranger in the Special Operations Unit.

All the finalists went through a selection process based on a set of stringent assessment criteria.

Apart from going the extra mile, nominees had to possess qualities such as independent and progressive thinking, initiative and creativity, a positive approach to work, leadership and the ability to interact at all levels regardless of training and skills.

The awards for facilities were judged on overall performance, implementation of systems, financial performance and management, guest complaints and compliments, compliance with policies and general neatness of the facility.