Blue Gill Village
Some History of the Blue Gill Waters Farm
The Developer of Blue Gill Estate - the firm NBS Developments (Pty) Ltd., purchased the working farm from Mr & Mrs Canin in 1987. The farm was then known as Blue Gill Waters Nursery, as Mrs Canin, a devoted horticulturist and well-known landscape architect, operated a flourishing nursery from the then, actively thriving farmland. Mr Canin farmed the Estate as a fully functional concern, having divided the ± 110-hectare property into ± 8 camps, or feedlots, on which he farmed with cattle. Mr Canin also had a factory in Spartan, manufacturing a variety of wooden products. The entire Estate was irrigated by means of a huge pump, situated at the dam from where the entire Estate could be irrigated. The dam water was pristine and clear of all impediments - it was fed by a spring, originating near the current Avion Park. Blue Kurper were abundant in this clear water - hence the name Blue Gill.
Amongst other projects keeping her busy, Mrs Canin established a medical clinic for farm workers in the area on Blue Gill. This facility, which had a thatch roof, was struck by lightning after they left the farm and was burnt down to the ground. The plaque, displayed in the current Clubhouse, is all that remains of this facility.
Mrs Canin was also instrumental in establishing a school for the farm workers’ children on the adjoining farm where Glen Erasmia was subsequently developed. This was a private school, funded by the family and friends. The first pupil to enter this school was eventually appointed as its first official Head Mistress, after the Government took over the running of the school as a going concern.
The current Clubhouse was the main residence, and it is interesting to note that the roof shingles were imported from Canada by Mr Canin, and all internal woodwork (ceilings etc.) from Sweden.
NBS Developments (Pty) Ltd. bought the farmland from Mr Canin and the contents of the nursery from Mrs Canin.
The White Stinkwood trees from the nursery were planted in the road reserves of Cormorant Drive and the remainder of the trees elsewhere on the Estate.
The Development
In designing the Estate, the developer endeavoured to create a “Life cycle” Estate for young and old, from apartments to clusters to family free-standing homes, from young newlyweds to established families, all living together in harmony. The town planning was done in 1988 and the Estate was proclaimed in 1990.
The entrance (guardhouse) was built along with the perimeter wall, and a Homeowners Association was established to manage the affairs of the community, which is still the case.
During these early years, crime was not an issue, and the perimeter fence was not electrified or monitored by cameras, as it is today.
Homeowners Association
The Homeowners Association was established on 21st of October, 1991. The first Directors appointed were: Messrs. D.B. Basson, J.A. Pelser, D.J. van der Merwe, T.M. van der Merwe, J.A. van Eck, D.G. Gorven, C.J. Mountford.
The following year (1992) the first residents were elected as Directors and they were Messrs. A. Harrison, A. van Heerden and E. van der Merwe.
During the years 1993 – 1996 the Developers gradually withdrew from the Board of Directors and in 1996 the entire Board of Directors were elected at the AGM.
Historical Facts
- The Estate is over 33 years old
- The original levy was R50 per household
- The average selling price of a 1000m² stand was R62,000
- The last stand was sold for R1,200,000 in 2014
With the development of adjoining suburbs, the water quality to the dam deteriorated and silt build-up was significant. The entire top dam was de-silted in 1999. The dam wall was strengthened and the island, built by the Developers as a bird breeding facility, was enlarged. It was envisaged that specific water reeds should be introduced into the top dam to assist with the filtration and improvement of the water quality.
The first child born on the Estate was Danie Basson, who was born on 3 March 1988. He is now a homeowner, living in the Estate with his own family. He is the son of Niel and Bessie Basson who still reside in Blue Gill and who are proud grandparents of four grandsons. Niel is a long-standing resident from 1 August 1987 and a Director of the Blue Gill Homeowners’ Association.
Facilities
The Office of the Estate is situated in the Clubhouse and is surrounded by beautiful communal gardens. The Estate plays host to many functions for the community at the Clubhouse. Carols by candlelight and dog walk events are hosted to raise funds for charities in the area. There are also wine tasting events hosted and attended by the residents, along with Spring Day braais for family get-togethers.
Residents also hire the Clubhouse for private functions and many birthday parties and baby showers have been held here in the past. The gardens and dam areas are also popular with photographers wanting to capture memorable photos of brides and young residents attending their matric farewells.
The Estate is also proud to boast an Eco Park and recycling area for all items, including electronic goods. This is well supported by the community. The Estate promotes environmental responsibility while supporting the local community. MES, a local NPO organisation, collects recycling and provides employment opportunities by sorting items to generate income for their organisation.
Licensed anglers enjoy catch-and-release fishing of carp and barbel in the dams. Dog owners enjoy walking around the dam while taking in the sunsets and scenic views. Bird watchers spend hours observing the diverse birdlife and capturing stunning photographs.
The Estate is a secure and safe haven for all residents, with a strong focus on maintaining safety and community well-being.