KAROO NEWS - Visitor numbers to the annual three-day SPAR Kirkwood Wildsfees were back to near pre-Covid levels as visitors enjoyed perfect weather and an entertainment-packed weekend.
Festival Director Jenni Honsbein says stallholders reported selling goods to visitors from as far afield as Mossel Bay and East London.
"Over the past 20 years the festival has grown beyond the Eastern Cape, and now attracts visitors from around the country. Accommodation in the Sundays River Valley and surroundings are booked up months in advance."
Visitor numbers were up significantly year on year on the Friday and Saturday, but slightly down on Sunday, giving an overall attendance of roughly around 40 000 through the gates. "There was a substantial growth of 60% of the under 7-year-olds, which shows that it is a festival for the whole family," says Honsbein.
Sponsors have also returned, with several new national companies coming on board.
The annual Kirkwood Wildsfees auction was also successful. The majority of 245 lots were sold with a turnover of R9,43-million including VAT. "This is nearly twice the turnover in 2021. It was a great auction, especially with SANParks back on board as sellers again," says auction convener Garth Saville.
SANParks had 360 animals on show at the auction - sable bulls sold for R46 000, buffalo bulls for R115 000, eland bulls for R33 000, and a kudu bull for R46 000. "Overall, there was a very good turnout from both local buyers and buyers online. Bidding was active and it was a great day," says Saville.
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