Bringing life to old jalopies has long been a source of inspiration for Shakaskraal panel beater Baizlee Sibagopal.

He grew up on a farm outside Shakaskraal where his father worked as a supervisor.

After leaving school he looked for an opportunity to learn a trade and found work at a panelbeaters in Durban, where he worked for many years before venturing out on his own in 1984.

“I used to travel by train from Shakaskraal to Durban, but over the years tired of the long-distance commuting. So, I started my own panel beating business, Baizlee’s Panel Beaters,” said Sibagopal.

He specialises in accident repairs, rust removal, panel beating and spray painting of all types of vehicles.

In the past five years he has expanded to include panel beating trucks.

The 63-year-old father of three – Sonel, Minolen, and Kinola – is a prominent figure in the Shakaskraal community.

Back in the day, his business did not only serve as a gathering place for car enthusiasts but also as a battery charging spot for rural residents without access to electricity.

“Even Nkobongo residents, before it developed into a township, would come here to charge their car batteries,” said Sibagopal.

Reflecting on the evolution of his trade, he noted the shift from manual labour to more technologically advanced methods, significantly reducing turnaround times.

“However, I’ve observed a trend towards replacement and repainting among newer panel beaters. Unlike us older folk who would repair and mould broken fenders, they opt for replacement,” he said.

While Sibagopal’s business is based in Shakaskraal, his clientele predominantly hails from Ballito, Salt Rock and neighbouring areas.

“I cater more to lower and middle-class individuals and vintage car owners. I prefer working on project cars, where I can restore every aspect of the vehicle’s body,” he said.

Proud of his children’s achievements, Sibagopal shared that his two sons previously assisted him during weekends and holidays. Sonel has since started his own venture, Sonels Transport and Recovery, while Minolen manages Mins Breakdown Service and Panel Beaters. Daughter Kinola is a manager at Ampath Laboratories.

Despite being in the industry for more than three decades, Sibagopal remains passionate about his work and anticipates several more years before retirement.

Stay in the loop with The North Coast Courier on Facebook, X, Instagram & YouTube for the latest news.

Mobile users can join our WhatsApp Broadcast Service here or if you’re on desktop, scan the QR code below.