Die Klip Driving Range launched

Ward 17 Clr Dwain Ponsonby launched the Die Klip Driving Range at Die Dip in Ext 2, Klipspruit West, on April 18.

The range provides a dedicated space for golfers to practise while also creating a platform for local entrepreneurs to access potential clients.

Ponsonby said the launch marks a major milestone for the community after months of groundwork and development.

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“This has taken a lot of elbow grease, blood, sweat and tears. We received no external support for this initiative, but we are proud to stand here today and see it finally come to life,” he said.

He said the project was developed as a sports, arts and culture hub aimed at bringing the community together and creating positive activity for residents.

“This space is about uniting people. Sport, culture and arts will help us connect, understand each other better and build stronger community ties,” he said.

Ponsonby added that the hub will include a hiking trail, boot camp, soccer fields, cultural village elements and trading stalls to support local economic activity.

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“We want young people and residents to have a space where they can participate, learn, trade and grow right here in Eldorado Park,” he said.

André Bek, regent of the Azurbek Korana Royal House, said the recognition of Khoi and San heritage in Eldorado Park marks an important moment for cultural restoration and community unity.

“This is history in the making. We are seeing our councillor take the initiative to say nothing for us without us. This site will now be used to properly display and preserve Khoi and San culture,” he said.

Bek said the initiative, supported through cooperation with local leadership and COCTA recognition processes, aims to change negative perceptions about the area and promote unity among residents.

“For too long, places like Eldorado Park, Kliptown and Klipspruit West have been associated only with negative things. We want to change that narrative and show the positive culture, history and potential of our people,” he said.

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He added that the project will include cultural education, heritage activities and youth development programmes.

“We will teach our children about who we are, where we come from, and how our traditions can guide us forward. Our history is what will set us free,” he said.

Thrilled about the launch, golfer Aaron Motau from Klipspruit West said the facility will make it easier for local golfers to practise without travelling long distances.

“I feel really excited because if you want to go to a driving range, you normally have to travel far. Now I can just walk from home with my clubs and come here to hit a few balls,” he said.

Motau said he has been playing golf for about three to four years after being introduced to the sport by friends.

“I started quite late, but I really enjoy it. My friends encouraged me to try golf, and I’ve enjoyed it ever since,” he said.

Although he does not plan to pursue the sport professionally, he said the space will help him continue enjoying the game locally.