“New look for Old Joe”
One of the Lowveld’s most famous guardians, Old Joe, was given a whole new look in support of the 2010 World Cup. Old Joe has become an icon welcoming travellers to the Lowveld, and now also to the Mbombela Stadium in Nelspruit.
The rock, which has stood at the side of the N4 Toll Route in Schoemanskloof since the 1920s, was painted by Nelspruit artist, Ghost, holding a football and a vuvuzela. The new look for one of Mpumalanga’s most loved landmarks was sponsored by Trans African Concessions (TRAC).
It has been a tradition since shortly after Joe was erected in the 1920s for passing motorists to paint the distinctive rock. Ghost has previously painted Old Joe as the Madonna and as a Springbok rugby fan.
For more on Old Joe, visit the country guest house, Old Joe’s Kaia (www.oldjoes.co.za) and read Peter Delmar’s book “The N4 Toll Route – The Road to Maputo” (www.then4book.co.za).
TRACassist helicopter helps keep travellers safe
Trans African Concessions (TRAC) is geared for the 2010 FIFA World Cup games at the Mbombela Stadium in Nelspruit and the expected influx of tourists to the Mpumalanga Province.
TRAC will operate the TRACassist helicopter along the N4 Toll Route for the duration of the peak period in June and July. On board the helicopter will be an advanced life support (ALS) paramedic to provide emergency medical support on accident scenes.
The helicopter will also undertake route patrols on a daily basis and support TRAC’s roadside assistance teams.
TRAC’s accident response and roadside assistance teams can be contacted via its 24-hour call centre on 0800 8722 64 (0800 TRAC N4).
“Ensuring the safety of all road users on the N4 during this peak period is our main aim. All our efforts in support of the World Cup are aimed at providing the safest route possible and a comfortable travelling experience,” said Arthur Coy, TRAC CEO.
No construction along N4 Toll Route
No construction work will be undertaken during the World Cup period and only routine maintenance will be done, if and when required.
Adverse weather conditions
However, heavy mist and veld fires may cause poor visibility and dangerous driving conditions during the winter months. TRAC cautions travellers to exercise extreme caution, increase their following distance and use their head lights when conditions on the road are poor.
For traffic updates or route information contact:
TRACassist helpline on 0800 8722 64 (0800 TRAC N4).
