Our History

The Story of how Basil’s Boma was Born

The family owned a non working farm which was purchased in 2002. Philip van Biljon (their father) during his retirement helped plan and build the chalet on a site which had been used for a sing along venue by the previous owner. Rocks used for the building were painstakingly brought by Mathew to the site from a heap which had been dumped in the veld, thus as little as possible of the natural veld was disturbed. All rubble found in the veld was used for filling. The wooden doors were manufactured by Rue & Isak from – the local manufacturer down the road.

Mervin and Trevor Koning (their special friends) arranged for the electrical installations. Bonny (their daughter) laid the tiles for the shower floor and Amos their staff member laid the paving with “welcome” in the opposite directions as well as handled the ceiling thatching etc. Joanne, had so many ideas and Philip had to help her implement them. Ah, she was also the runner “fetch this, get that”. Lettie, their mother provided refreshments and comments during building operations. Jorry, Basil’s friend provided the long spade, tripods etc.

Basil, well what can we say!!! Last but not least provided the funds, game heads and horns. He helped with the deck, roofing etc and raised his voice when dad and I made things larger. He loves to welcome the guests on arrival together with our four dogs. We decided to name our venue after him.

Many other friends & folks have added a little something to this very special getaway cottage.

Our sincerest gratitude to all whom participated, we trust all who visit will experience the loving energy and atmosphere this unique venue has to offer.

About Accommodation

The Potter’s Shed

During the 1990’s the building was used to manufacture Pottery. After purchasing the property we decided to convert the top portion of the shed into a small flatlet for our daughter Bonny who has also left her mark by allowing us to use some of her furniture etc.

In keeping with the history of the shed, it was decided to use and re-cycle – wherever possible – items found in and around the shed. Bits and pieces of discarded pottery found was used as decoration in the small Garden and inside the unit. Old pallets and screens were re-cycled to create the patio roof and screening, making of a coffee table, luggage rack etc. The bedside tables were made from containers rescued by Basil from one of his clients. Joanne saw their potential and got Jerry our handyman on the farm to help – they used wooden blocks – remnants of the original front door of the main house – as legs for the Bedside Tables. The containers were then sanded and varnished – Wholla – 2 Bedside Tables. The Lamps were created from tripod stands and copper curtain rails, also found in the shed. The mirror frame in the bathroom and frame in the lounge (we added the calabashes) was made by my our dad and in his memory we re-sanded and varnished them. Out patio Chandelia was made by Basil, using the remains of mom’s old washing machine and rusty chains donated by Stephan, our daughter’s betrothed. Jam jars have been used as shades. It took Basil a while and quite a few strong words to put it all together and fit it and then Jerry managed to level it. The patio table was made from old parts found which Joanne and Jerry repaired with cement, oxides and sealant.

Mom as always would come to comment on the progress and make suggestions, as well as helping with the selection of cushions, crockery etc. Mom also, very patiently, tagged along while Joanne searched for inspiration.

Natie our granddaughter walks the farm, climbs the mountain with granny to learn the names of the trees, birds and plants, rock formations etc. picks up every type of rock or stone (‘Granny I need these’), photographs all she can see, keeps her lookout for veld fires and sounds the alert, has shared her thoughts to develop the incomplete reservoir up the mountain. Natie may your dream come true my dear!

Beauty – Joanne’s willing and cheerful helper patiently tidied up after us and whenever Joanne got excited and things did not go to plan told her “DON’T STRESS MA”.

The project we undertook to re-cycle, reuse and renew wherever possible has given us all a great sense of achievement and has encouraged us to continue in this vein.

All that is left to say is – Enjoy the echoed sounds of the Mocking Chats nesting in the shed and watching the emus, bless buck and the abundant bird life the area has to offer. AH! The seasonal visit by the most entertaining baboons when they come to enjoy a feast of corn from the fields in the neighbouring farm. Not to forget the Hot Air Balloons drifting by.

These two projects – Basil’s Boma Bush Chalet & The Potter’s Shed – have turned out to be a most enjoyable hobby.