Within hours, the hotel's Kruger Dam, built in the early 1880s by original farm owner Paul Kruger, was filled to capacity. Unable to retain the sheer volume of water, the dam wall gave way under the immense pressure, causing to part of the hotel and its facilities.
In total, the spa therapy rooms, 12 standard and 15 super deluxe rooms, as well as the presidential and royal suites, were affected. The roadway entrance to the hotel and the perimeter fencing of the Pygmy Hippo camp were also damaged. Resident male hippo, Stoffel, was washed away, later to be retrieved and brought back to safety. Fortunately the hotel's conference facilities, restaurant and reception areas were not affected.
Swift action on behalf of the Kedar team ensured that there was no structural damage to any of the hotel buildings, or any injuries to staff or guests. Clean-up crews began operating immediately and the hotel continues to function as normal with the remaining 33 rooms. Repair to damaged rooms and the Kruger Dam wall is underway. Three of the spa therapy rooms have already reopened to accommodate current bookings. Executive chairman Robert Forsyth said: "I am extremely impressed that the buildings stood and I am proud of our team who leapt into action. Obviously, there is a lot of work to be done, but the hotel is operating as normally as possible. We thank the public and trade for their support."
For more information, contact +27 (0)11 950 6000 or go to www.recreationafrica.co.za.
