As the Garden Route Game Lodge reflects on 25 years in business, there are several milestones and achievements that stand out, worthy of celebration and mention.
Being the first private game reserve in the Western Cape to introduce free-roaming cheetah in 2007 is one reason. The lodge’s expansion from a relatively small reserve to one that stretches as far as the Gouritz River and over 4500 hectares is another.
A common thread that winds its way through the quarter-century journey and all of the accomplishments the lodge has celebrated, the heartbeat of its success, is its wonderful staff.
The Garden Route Game Lodge’s staff have demonstrated unwavering commitment is the cornerstone of the lodge’s achievements.
From just 15 staff in the early years, the lodge now employs 150 staff from the local village, making them the largest employer in the Hessequa region.
Taking to heart every piece of feedback and every review, their staff and their kindness is what has stood out to many, translating into an unapparelled guest experience.
“When I reflect on our travels as a family, there is always one staff member that stands out, perhaps the guide who wowed you with his sightings or the waiter that smiled and remembered your name and favourite table, or the gate guard with her friendly greeting and smile. Our staff and their ability to touch the lives of each guest they interact with is most worthy of celebrating,” says Natasha Doherty, co-owner of Garden Route Game Lodge.
Natasha chatted with two of the Garden Route Game Lodge staff, who shared some of their most cherished memories of the lodge:
“I started to work at GRGL in 2001 as a Sculler. The lodge has opened so many doors to me as a young girl, and therefore I will always be grateful,” says Senior Chef Elna Kohler.
“I have worked my way up to Senior Chef over the years, with thanks to Mr. and Mrs. Doherty, who have instilled so much trust and belief in me. If it weren’t for the lodge and my years of experience in the kitchen, doing what I love, I would not be here.”
“The lodge employs people from the village and creates opportunities for the youth in Albertina. We have grown so much in the last 25 years, since the Doherty family took over. Thank you for being such caring and loving two people. You mean the world to us.”
Senior Guide Abie Block weighs in on 20+ years at Garden Route Game Lodge:
“I started at the lodge in August 2006, as a junior field guide. The best part of this journey has been seeing the growth and expansion of the lodge – including the herds of animals that now call our grounds home,” says Block.
“One of the things that stands out about being a guide in the Garden Route for so many years, is that no matter how much experience you have gained here, you will never stop learning. Now, I happily wear the badge of Senior Guide at the lodge, an establishment that has provided local people with jobs, and a means to earn a living.” ends Block.
Beyond its celebrated staff, the Garden Route Game Lodge’s 25 successful years are also owed to its contributions to conservation.
“While celebrating our silver anniversary it’s impossible not to mention our conservation contribution. Through partnerships with conservation organizations like the Endangered Wildlife Trust and community-driven initiatives we have contributed to the protection of endangered and threatened species and fostered an ethos of environmental stewardship among the local community.”
“Our journey is a testament to the relationship between business success, community empowerment and preservation of our natural habitat for generations to enjoy. We look forward to the next exciting chapter.” ends Doherty.
