ALBERTINIA NEWS - Tributes have poured in for a beloved Garden Route Game Lodge guide of almost 20 years, Hannes van Tonder.

Van Tonder, the head guide at the lodge at the time of his passing, died last Tuesday morning, 1 July, following a head-on collision between a truck and a motor vehicle on the N2 near Albertinia.

On 4 July, the lodge posted a heartfelt tribute to Van Tonder, who had been a guide there for the last 19 years. 

The post has since garnered over 200 comments from people sharing their experiences with Van Tonder, and saying how much he will be missed.

The Garden Route Lodge posted that Van Tonder had not only been the head guide, but a mentor, friend and an incredibly special person.

"He was the heart and soul of our lodge. His deep connection with nature and his extraordinary gift of sharing it with others with such unwavering enthusiasm was a rare talent. 

Through thousands of game drives, he touched thousands of lives," the lodge wrote.

"We are deeply grateful for sharing the last 19 years with this legend of a man who everyone adored. 

Our heartfelt condolences go out to his family. 

Rest in peace, Hannes van Tonder. 

Thank you for the legacy you leave behind. The lodge will never be the same without you, but will always carry your footprints."

It is understood that the lodge will be holding a memorial service for Van Tonder, however, no date has yet been set.

The Albertinia Police are investigating a case of homicide in the wake of the collision.

Following a call on social media on Wednesday to find new homes for four of Van Tonder's dogs, the community responded swiftly. 

By the time of going to press, it was confirmed that all four dogs had already been successfully rehomed.

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