TRACTOR Awareness Rally: A Journey of Unity Across the Northern and Western Cape
- Karen Scheepers
- Sep 11
- 3 min read
The TRACTOR Awareness Rally (Together Rallying Across Communities To Overcome Remembrance-loss) continues to weave its message of awareness, dignity, and unity across South Africa. From Carnarvon to Robertson, the symbolic tractor has become more than a vehicle, it has become a beacon of resilience, carrying with it the voices of caregivers, the support of communities, and the compassion of those determined to make a difference.
Day Seven: From Carnarvon to Williston
On Friday, 5 September, the rally journeyed from Carnarvon to Williston. The day was marked by teamwork and a shared commitment to safety, with special thanks extended to Mr. Solly from IRCA, who ensured that the road was safe for all participants.
The organisers emphasised that the rally is not just about distance covered but about the collective spirit of communities. By travelling together in solidarity, participants demonstrated how awareness of dementia and Alzheimer’s is strengthened when safety, cooperation, and care form the foundation of the journey.
Day Eight: Reaching Calvinia, the Last Stop in the Northern Cape
Saturday, 6 September, saw the rally travel from Williston to Calvinia, the final Northern Cape stop on the route. Calvinia welcomed the rally with open arms, providing a day of heartfelt engagement.
Community members gathered to share stories, listen to caregivers, and honour those living with memory loss. The support of local businesses such as OK Food Calvinia and the dedicated SCI stakeholder engagement team added to the success of the stop, securing a voucher for the rally team.
The day closed with a powerful reminder: true community engagement begins with listening. Even when memories fade, dignity and love remain.
Day Nine: Calvinia to Van Rhynsdorp
On Sunday, 7 September, the tractor carried its message further, travelling from Calvinia to Van Rhynsdorp. Before leaving Calvinia, participants were deeply moved by the words of Prof. Thabisile Mpofana from NWU, who spent valuable time with elders and caregivers in old age homes. Her focus on listening, encouraging, and sharing knowledge left a lasting impression on all involved.
The arrival in Van Rhynsdorp continued this theme. Werno, a member of the medical team, highlighted the importance of “listening with sharp ears”, an act of gathering stories, offering support, and ensuring that those living with dementia are seen and valued. These encounters deepened the campaign’s focus on remembrance and empathy.
Day Ten: From Van Rhynsdorp to Citrusdal
On Monday, 8 September, the team travelled from Van Rhynsdorp to Citrusdal. The day’s reflections reinforced the rally’s ethos: awareness alone can spark change, but true impact is found in listening.
Visits to local care homes provided further opportunities to honour the resilience of families and caregivers. Each conversation underscored that the rally is not merely symbolic, it is a practical and emotional lifeline for many navigating the challenges of dementia.
Day Eleven: Citrusdal to Tulbagh
Tuesday, 9 September, brought the rally to Tulbagh. Accompanied by Prof. Carlien from NWU, the team reflected on the journey so far, the kilometres travelled, the communities met, and the resilience encountered along the way.
Prof. Carlien noted that this journey has become a collection of voices, each shaping the way forward. Her reflections highlighted how the rally’s mission goes beyond raising awareness; it is about building networks of compassion and ensuring that the dignity of those with memory loss is never forgotten. “Even when they forget us, we will remember them,” became the phrase that guided the day’s engagements.
Day Twelve: Tulbagh to Robertson
On Wednesday, 10 September, the rally continued from Tulbagh to Robertson. The visit to Tulbagh the previous day left an indelible mark, with meaningful stops at the Community Hall, the Kerke church, and the local old age home.
Here, caregivers and elders shared their stories in an environment filled with respect and empathy. As always, the team listened, because listening remains the heart of the campaign. Moving into Robertson, the tractor carried with it not only symbolic momentum but also the real stories of resilience, love, and unity collected along the way.
Facebook Video Link: https://www.facebook.com/100063630157127/videos/pcb.1336410968489896/1502193324154588
A Journey Beyond Roads
From Carnarvon to Robertson, the TRACTOR Awareness Rally has demonstrated that awareness is only the beginning. True change comes when communities work together, when safety is prioritised, and when caregivers are given the space to share their burdens and receive support.
As the tractor continues its southward path, it serves as a rolling reminder: while memories may fade, dignity, care, and love must remain steadfast. The journey is more than kilometres on a map, it is a living testament to South Africa’s ability to unite for a cause that touches countless families.
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