Famous bodyguard spotted at Biltongfees
Mr Barnard was a former personal bodyguard to four State Presidents
The Biltongfees had its fair share of fun, food and festivities, but it also had its fair share of intrigue. Unbeknownst to many who attended, South Africa’s very own 007 was also present.
Gert ‘Barries’ Barnard, a former personal bodyguard to four State Presidents, was also at the Biltongfees with his wife, Colleen Holdengarde-Barnard, though many may not have recognised him.
Barries (his code name) served as a bodyguard for PW Botha, FW De Klerk, Nelson Mandela and Thabo Mbeki.
He also stood behind Madiba in the iconic photo at the Rugby World Cup 1995, when Mandela handed over the trophy to Francois Pienaar.
He described Mandela as an absolute gentleman and recalled fondly the time he served him.
So what brought such a famous face to the fees? Barries is the brother of Glencoe’s own, Elsa Booysen who formerly worked at the Glencoe SAPS.
