Rhino Rescue Takes Flight!

Rhino Rescue Adventure: Local Family Joins the Fight to Save a Species

Thabazimbi – A unique collaboration between Hoërskool Frikkie Meyer (HFM) and Wildlife Ranching South Africa (WRSA) has brought education and conservation together — giving one local family the opportunity of a lifetime.

The Terblanche family from Thabazimbi, who homeschool their children, won the Rhino Experience auction launched on 24 June 2025. Their unforgettable adventure took place on 14 July during Rhino Week, where they joined wildlife experts for an up-close, hands-on rhino conservation effort.

The family took part in DNA sampling, watched a rhino darting procedure, assisted veterinary services, and even helped care for an injured animal in the veld. “This was a day we will remember for the rest of our lives,” said Marelize Terblanche, who, along with Hanneli and Marie, also enjoyed a helicopter flight — made possible by local aviation company Indigo Helicopters and pilot Dolph van der Merwe.

The auction raised funds for both WRSA and HFM, with the school choosing to donate half its share back to WRSA. “We want the community to know that Frikkie Meyer is actively involved in conservation,” said Chrisna Els, the school’s fundraising coordinator.

“Teaching the youth must be sustainable and prioritised,” added Jenny Rossouw, chairperson of WRSA Thabazimbi. The organisation’s mascot, #OscarTheRhino, continues to raise awareness through social media.

Thabazimbi is known for its open hearts — and this collaboration shows how much can be achieved when education, conservation, and community come together.