Aircooled VW South Africa

1970 Riviera - 'Charlie' - CHECK!

A very good morning to all the ladies and gentlemen of the old car motoring fraternity,

Never underestimate the power of the brotherhood of our antique, classic and old car owners! It is special and one of life’s enriching experiences. I have known this for many years and it has once again been proved by this unfortunate incident. Your interest, support, advice and vigilance led to the recovery of my special Buick and I am so grateful.

At 20h00 on Wednesday 19 June 2013 I received a phone call from Nick Leonard, a member of the Jacaranda Beetle Club in Pretoria who had observed the stolen Buick in a secure residential complex. He knew about the theft following the SAVVA circulated notice his club had received. The whole of yesterday was taken up with recovery of the Buick from the SA Police Pretoria West Stolen Vehicle Compound and the car was eventually released to me at 18h00. It was a tedious, harrowing, frustrating process but is another story that needs to be shared. The car is in remarkably good shape, barring damage to the locks, some damage to the upholstery in the thieves search for a tracker, removal of some electronic equipment, tools, regalia and wheel covers. I was very lucky!

There are so many thank you’s to all of you but to highlight a few -

Firstly to all at SAVVA, our controlling body, for distributing the information so promptly which led to the speedy recovery of the car.

Of course to Nick Leonard for his vigilance and immediate response. A huge thank you to you Nick and Koos van Zyl of The Jakaranda Beetle Club for alerting all their members to the theft.

To so many of not only my own Club’s members but others throughout South Africa who advised, shared, phoned me and lent their support. I have been overwhelmed by your response and thank you all most sincerely!

Julian Knight of the Kempston Vehicle Theft and Recovery Group, who went out of his way to assist, advise and facilitate the safe recovery of the Buick and who was with me every step of the way in securing the release of the car last night.

It was a challenging experience to say the least. Having a car stolen is always a traumatic experience and a classic or antique car which is one’s hobby, perhaps more so. When the dust has settled, I will, if permitted to do so, share and relate through SAVVA the experience and the reality of the risks we face as owners of these rare cars.

Finally from a grateful fellow enthusiast, I reiterate my sincere thanks to all. May we continue to enjoy our hobby and more importantly the fellowship and friendships our movement brings.

Chris Palk