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First kisses, hours spent on a trampoline and spiritual awakenings are just some of the memories Nelson Mandela Bay residents have of the Sumcay Camping Centre, which is now being sold.
After more than 40 years and 600,000 camper nights, the trustees of Sumcay Camping Centre have decided to sell the facility and the adjacent Waterways properties.
Sumcay, on the banks of the upper tidal reaches of the Swartkops River, is on a 15-hectare plot and consists of en suite bungalows with accommodation for 200 at two separate sites.
The facility also boasts halls, dining halls with well-equipped kitchens, swimming pools and staff accommodation.
Both properties, including all fixtures and fittings, are on the market for R12m.
Brian Moore, a member of the board of trustees consisting of representatives of Scripture Union and the Young Men’s Christian Association (YMCA), said dwindling camp numbers, economic pressures and the loss of income brought on by Covid-19 had led to the decision.
“Midway through the lockdown, we had an inquiry from a children’s home saying that they were interested in buying the property. Up until that stage we hadn’t thought about selling.
“We sat down and thought about it and said we had been through about three very difficult years, and with Covid, we thought this might be the end of an era and might take up the offer.”
The children’s home, however, was unable to raise the funds to purchase the property.
Despite this, Moore said, they had opted to place it on the market and it had since gathered a lot of interest from potential buyers.
Board chair Sherwin Nel said the centre was a non-profit organisation and maintaining the property cost about R50,000 a month.
“We are driven by impact and not profit. We are focused on transforming lives, and that is what we have seen over the years,” he said.
According to Moore, Sumcay was also used by schools as a venue to prepare matriculants for their final exams, away from any distractions.
He added that in their discussions with prospective buyers they informed them about the availability of the centre’s eight staff members, who have been unemployed since the end of October.
“We are on the lookout for them all the time. It is just sad.”
The pair said the board would love to see Sumcay continuing to reach and transform lives and the community.
Residents of Nelson Mandela Bay who attended retreats and youth camps at the centre have fond memories of Sumcay.
Debbie Derry, a former lay director for the Christian Emmaus Walks, said Sumcay had a special place in the hearts of those who attended the Christian Emmaus Walks hosted there twice a year for almost 20 years.
“The facilities, set against the backdrop of the river, were ideal for the 72-hour spiritual journey that saw many lives transformed. And the staff were exceptional too, many of them having attended a walk.
“Sadly, the Port Elizabeth Emmaus Community will need to seek new premises for hosting its walks. It won’t be the same.”
Reverend Shirmell Newman, whose ordination retreat was held at Waterways, said she was saddened that Sumcay and Waterways would be sold.
“If I could describe Sumcay in one word, it would be rebirth.”
Alicia Oerson, who now lives in Johannesburg, said the word “Sumcay” brought to mind moments of lying on the trampoline, day or night.
“Those moments of almost eternal solace experienced just staring at the clear blue or cloudy sky during the day and stars in the middle of the night.
“Moments of being carefree, at total peace that years later still has the ability to bring calm and perspective when life gets busy and overwhelming.”
Lyndall Sa Joe-Derrocks told of her fondest memories involving the campsite.
“My mom, Aloma, cooked at countless camps there, so we spent many weekends and almost every school holiday on the site as a family.
“Some of my memories include my dad, Kevin, teaching me to swim at the age of three.
“My first kiss, meeting my husband, my 21st birthday party and the many friendships started. I’ve laughed, cried, canoed and carved my initials into a tree on the banks of that beautiful Swartkops River.
“These memories from a wonderful childhood spent at what felt like a magical place will forever be engraved in my heart.
“I pray that the new owner will maintain its legacy and many more people will still have the opportunity to experience the magic that is Sumcay.”
HeraldLIVE
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