And strict rules apply also. Show up early, adhere to proper parking etiquette – do not start a rev-off, donuts or dragging challenge – do not touch without permission, and do not lie about the specs of your car, are but a few.

The idea has found its way to Hazyview and the local Hazyview Hospitality Group has decided to use the concept as both a networking opportunity for Lowveld business as well as motoring dealers to introduce new products to the community. It will be held every second Saturday of the month.

“Tourism has taken a serious knock because of Covid-19 and we need to think outside of the box to revive it. Cars & Coffee is a good opportunity for dealers that don’t have dealerships in Hazyview to tap into the Bosbokrand market. And then of course, with gin and coffee trending in the market place, it will also allow us to introduce local producers to the visiting community on these days,” said Willem Fick.

Ian Yallop, a Mpumalanga artist now living in Cape Town, exhibited his elephant portraits at this recent event. “The portraits were part of a 100 artworks in 40 days project. “I will donate 33% of all sales to the elephant sanctuary. Each work was done with tattoo ink and using photographs taken by various wildlife photographers,” said Yallop.

Some of the local classic car enthusiasts brought their beauties to the event. Fick said, “There are plans afoot in 2021 to bring out an accredited classic car evaluator and auctioneer who will evaluate local cars and then auction, also online, cars from right here.”

So if you love cars, coffee, gin and all the other things in between, Cars & Coffee is bound to crank your starter motor.

Oh, and do try that coffee and tonic drink – it is as refreshing as the sound of an MG starting up first thing in the morning.