18/08/2026
Today, we greet a legend.
At the age of 60, G***a has taken his final breath.
G***a was more than just an elephant. He was a gentle soul who roamed the Rhinoland bushveld for generations. For decades, his presence was woven into the story of this place and into the lives of the people who called it home.
Over the years, countless people had the privilege of encountering G***a — hunters, guests, friends, family, staff and visitors. Each person who crossed paths with him left with a memory. In his own quiet way, G***a touched the hearts of so many.
He certainly touched ours.
For the Kotze family, G***a was part of Rhinoland. Part of our history. Part of our lives.
He was a true gentle giant, and saying goodbye to an animal who had been here for so many generations is not easy.
For the past year, we fought alongside him, treating a serious foot injury and doing everything we could to give him more time.
We even had to lift him a couple of times with the help of the excavator, just to try and assist him as his strength faded.
Throughout that year, Marius cared for G***a every morning and every evening. He prepared and brought him a variety of foods, constantly trying to keep his food intake up and ensure that he received as much protein as possible.
Every visit meant bringing him 500 litres of fresh water.
And as G***a’s condition deteriorated, the care became even more personal. In the end, Marius would carefully open oranges, place his medication inside, and feed them to him — doing whatever he could to make sure G***a received the treatment he needed.
In the end, every time G***a heard or saw Marius, his demeanor would change. It was almost as if he was showing recognition, appreciation, and acknowledgement. He would become more alert, he would move, and he would still fight a little harder each time Marius was there.
But today was different. Today, he didn’t move. He didn’t fight.
Sadly, despite everything that was done for him, his injury eventually became too much, and today, G***a laid down and breathed his last.
We also want to express our deepest gratitude to Dr Shaun Beverley and his team, who worked countless hours alongside us. They gave G***a their time, expertise, dedication and every possible effort to help him and save him. We will forever be grateful for everything they did for him.
Sixty years of life.
Sixty years of roaming the bushveld.
Sixty years of being part of Rhinoland.
Today, we don’t just mourn an elephant.
We say goodbye to a legend.
Rest peacefully, G***a.
You touched more hearts than you could ever have known. Your memory will forever live on in Rhinoland and in all of us who were fortunate enough to encounter you.
The Kotze Family and the whole of Rhinoland greet you one final time.
