The beginning of a story about Ballito

After nearly half a century in Ballito, Schalk van Schalkwyk is now learning how to use his laptop to record the many interesting stories that make up the history of Ballito and its people.

“I have been here since before the streets were tarred. It was a quiet town when I arrived, but I knew the boom was coming,” said Van Schalkwyk who worked in the construction industry.

“I built about 20 houses in Ballito over the years and over 50 years I have met many interesting people. I always knew I wanted to write a book about Ballito and its people when I was retired – and now, here I am.”

Also read: Looking into Salt Rock’s history books

Not wanting to give away too many of the juicy stories he would like to write about, the fascinating 71-year-old fondly remembers some of the characters he would like to feature in his book.

“I know some horrible things and some very good things. I have seen so many people come and go, businesses thrive and go bankrupt and scandals come to light.

“Johnny the Greek, for example, was a real character and had a shop down in the old Ballito town where the Spar is.

“He always had a bottle of whiskey under the counter and you ended up leaving half a bottle later and the wives were very cross. It was lovely,” said Van Schalkwyk, who has three daughters – Reney, Belinda and Karen.

He is now calling on all the long-term residents to assist him in putting this piece of history together.

“If anyone has interesting stories or old photos, please send it to me and help me put together part of our history and heritage.”

To share your anecdotes and photos, contact Van Schalkwyk at 072 636 5001 or email to rbkappliance@gmail.com

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