Stewcon - Making A Tangible Difference

Club Marina is a share block that is situated next to the Ifafa River in Ifafa Beach on KwaZulu-Natal’s South Coast. On the 17th of June 2008 the Ifafa River flooded its banks tragically leaving only tips of roofs, protruding above the water line.

The inhabitants lost all of their worldly possessions including homes, furniture and cars and while the insurers did fulfill their obligation to pay residents out, the development was located under the 100 year flood line resulting in a substantial excess charge being levied against the claimants.

Park administrators realized that payouts simply weren’t going to be enough to enable flood victims to purchase a new home or to build and took the decision to give the residents land higher up from the river, a new start, a new home and a chance to live without fear of flooding. 

Wentzel Stewart of Stewcon Construction had over a period of time got to know the families affected and upon hearing of their predicament, took the decision to help where possible. He and his wife Desre approached their suppliers who contributed by giving exceptionally good rates on the materials needed, making it possible to build at prices affordable to those who had lost their homes.

The overall building cost averaged out at R3000.00 per sqm including the architect’s fees, excavating equipment and engineer’s fees etc.

Stewcon Construction assisted the residents from the planning phase through to having the plans drawn up, submitting them to the municipality, and in acquiring all the necessary approvals needed to commence work.

In order to further save on costs, they contacted the South African National Defence Force who at the time had personnel in the process of completing their Construction Site Supervision Diploma. A gentleman named Graham Page completed his theoretical section and was sent to Stewcon to complete his practical while at the same time aiding the people of Club Marina.

Wentzel informs us that the terrain hasn’t been the easiest to build on as it consists of one hill after the other. Machines were brought in to level the various sites and to excavate areas designated for roads. Stewcon have thus far constructed 18 houses to date and more are to follow.

The Association takes the opportunity to commend Wentzel and his team on having the courage of their convictions, to make a tangible difference in the lives of others.

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Ernest Roper | Webmaster