15 interesting Meyerton facts that will surprise you
Category General News
To many people, Meyerton means one thing: Oprah. She famously established the Oprah Winfrey Leadership Academy for Girls in Henley on Klip. Since 2007, the school has empowered girls from disadvantaged backgrounds, giving them the education needed for a better future.
While we love the 'Queen of All Media', her school isn't Meyerton's defining feature. The town may seem small. But, you'll be intrigued by these 15 facts from its past and present.
1. Gold rush
Meyerton sprung to life when gold was found along the banks of the Klip River, a tributary of the Vaal. The town was officially proclaimed in 1891.
2. Little 'sssuperstar'
Meyerton is home to Johan van Rooyen, a 9-year-old certified snake catcher. He completed a one-day course at African Reptiles and Venom in Diepsloot.
3. Paddle time
The town has a strong canoeing culture. You can take part in the Klip to Vaal River Race. It starts at Meyerton Danie Maclean Park and finishes at the Watuni Canoe Club.
4. Ring king
Ruann Visser, the current South African heavyweight boxing champion, was born in Meyerton. Standing 207cm tall, he is known as 'The Giant King'.
5. Target practice
You can do clay pigeon shooting and show your skills in paintball. Meyerton has an indoor and outdoor shooting range just 13 minutes from the town centre.
6. K-Pop idol
Lindsay Setlema, a Meyerton dancer, scored the People's Choice Award at the 2018 Changwon K-Pop World Festival. He is training his own crew to compete at the festival again next year.
7. Petrolheads, unite!
Meyerton is well known for its racetrack. The Midvaal Raceway has a dragstrip, long circuit track, motocross track, flat dirt track and a skid pan.
8. Singing sensation
Meyerton's Verona Goslett was a contestant on The Voice SA (M-Net, season 3). Her debut single, Maskers, was a chart hit and she was also nominated for a Ghoema Award.
9. Town pride
In 2015, Meyerton was nominated and named the regional finalist in the Kwela Town of the Year Competition.
10. Fun run
Looking to get active? Join Meyerton's parkrun. This free 5km run was started in 2017. After 79 successful events, it has seen 4 678 runners participate thus far.
11. Equine experts
The Highveld Horse Care Unit, based in Meyerton, is the largest equine welfare organisation in the Southern Hemisphere. In 2018 alone, they treated around 5 000 horses and donkeys.
12. Screen legend
Nyembezi Kunene, a celebrated actor and director, was born in Meyerton. He starred in a number of television shows like Ring of Lies, Scandal! and Umlilo.
13. Quick brick
Ocon Brick can manufacture over a million bricks each day at their Meyerton plant. In 2016, they won their eighth PMR Golden Arrow Award for product excellence.
14. Cool school
Meyerton High School is one of the best institutions in the area. Its students have met popular figures like actor, Clement Maosa, and former US President, Barack Obama.
15. Local wordsmith
Diale Thlolwe was born in Meyerton. Some of his most notable works include Ancient Rites and Counting the Coffins. He is a two-time winner at the South African Literary Awards.
Meyerton has a lot going on. The bustling town boasts some famous faces, interesting activities and a lot of history. The friendly community will welcome you and make you feel like you belong. Century 21 is your stepping stone to the area. With over a hundred Meyerton properties for sale, you have so many options. Contact our property professionals today.
Author: Century 21 South Africa
