The serene beauty of Mogale City’s rivers, once a prized attraction for locals and tourists alike, has been tainted by a growing environmental crisis—one that has left local businesses struggling to survive. The West Rand municipality is grappling with several broken wastewater pumps, leading to persistent sewage leaks into the region’s river systems. Among the hardest hit by this pollution is the Brookwood Estate Trout Farm, a family-run business that has been thriving for over two decades.
The Bain family, who purchased the farm in the early 2000s, once relied on the Bloubankspruit river to support their trout farming operations. The river’s fresh waters were a consistent source of life for their fish and a vital part of the farm’s draw for visitors seeking a peaceful getaway amidst nature. But the growing water pollution in the river has effectively “killed” not only the fish but the entire business, as owner Bobby Bain explains.
“We used to have people here every week,” says Bain. “We had bookings for months in advance. But now, chalet guests arrive, and they’re put off by the smell. I don’t blame them—the stench can be horrendous. As a result, the chalets have been empty for quite some time, and it’s affecting our entire business.”
The problem lies in the nearby Percy Stewart Wastewater Treatment Plant, which feeds directly into the river running through the farm. With the plant now largely dysfunctional, sewage spills have become a constant issue. The treatment plant, which requires an estimated R150 million to repair, has created an insurmountable barrier for the farm, turning what was once a thriving destination into a decaying relic.
This crisis is not confined to the Brookwood Estate. Other hospitality businesses in the area, which rely on the natural beauty of Mogale City’s rivers to attract guests, are also feeling the devastating impact of the pollution. What was once a picturesque haven for nature lovers and anglers is now a cautionary tale of environmental neglect.
The situation in Mogale City raises urgent questions about the state of local infrastructure and the capacity of municipalities to manage essential services. For businesses like Brookwood Estate, the consequences are severe—and unless swift action is taken to repair the wastewater treatment plant and restore the health of the rivers, this once-thriving area could face even greater economic hardship in the years to come.
