THE renowned Hans Merensky Golf Club at Phalaborwa in the Northern Province - the only golf course in the world which features a private game reserve and where animals such as hippo, crocodile and warthog are found on the greens - is up for sale and word is that other properties suitable for tourism initiatives may soon follow suit.
Ian Williams, managing director of Hans Merensky and financial manager for the Phalaborwa Mining Company (PMC) - the current owner of the club - told Travel Now that PMC put the club on the market last year as it "was no longer part of the core business of the mine".
He said that PMC was anxious to sell the property as a going concern and that although there had been "quite a few interested buyers", the current owners would like to see it continue as a sports and recreation facility.
Hans Merensky also features several overnight chalets, tennis courts and squash courts, and game drives are offered on the reserve, which borders the Kruger National Park.
"There are a number of qualifications that we would like to incorporate into an agreement of sale," added Williams. "Firstly, we would like to be assured that the current employees and contractors are kept on and secondly, since PMC will be the club's neighbours and we do share certain services, we anticipate working closely with the new owner."
According to Williams, there is one interested buyer whose business plan has been approved, although financing is still being sought.
PMC may also sell one of its smaller farms located south of the Olifants River and which also borders the Kruger National Park.
"We are looking at getting the farm valued and will consider an offer to purchase only if we find it worthwhile."
Phalaborwa's other mining company, Foskor - which recently made headlines by selling the town's airport to SA Airlink - may also consider selling its Selati Lodge guesthouse in the future.
"Although we are open to selling it as a tourism facility in principle, we have not decided on any formal procedure yet," Foskor's Richard Veringa told Travel Now.
He did indicate though, that once the town's "mini-boom" was over after the mine's sub-contract work was completed, it would have to look at expanding as a major tourism destination if it was to survive financially.
"We are currently itemising our properties in the area and since it is our business mission to be completely committed to the welfare of the community, we will look at selling some of our properties as potential tourism products."
(Adele Mackenzie)
