QUIGNEY VOICE

Quigney used to be 'fabulous & thriving'

By Roberta Vermaak | October 2025

Roberta Vermaak sits down with six elders who have lived in Quigney for over six decades as they reminisce about the golden years of Quigney.

Six decades ago, Quigney was known for its pristine ocean views, holiday flats, clean local parks, thriving businesses, annual re-unions and recreational spaces that attract tourists from all over the world. Members of the community knew one another.

In recent years, the reputation of Quigney has deteriorated due to high levels of crime, poverty and poor service delivery.

Alarmed ratepayers and residents formed the Quigney Ratepayers' and Residents' Association (QRPRA), aiming to restore and reclaim the glory of this leading suburb.

Nelson Restrom: "It used to be fabulous"

Former Quigney hairdresser in the early 60s, Nelson Restrom (84), now retired, recalls what Quigney once was for him.

"It used to be fabulous. People from Port Elizabeth, which is three times the size of East London, used to come to the Quigney or East London to jol over weekends."

According to him, there were many night clubs and hotels which offered a wide variety of entertainment. However, change has brought about conditions such as poverty, unhygienic living conditions, and unwarranted illegal activities.

The elders believe that there are "laws" and ways of doing things that were practised in the olden days that need to be reintroduced.

A Family Suburb with Heart

For Rudy (83) and Patsi (84) du Toit Quigney was built to be a family suburb and they have fond memories of raising their children in it. They are fondly referred to as Pastor or Daddy and Mama by those who seek for their assistance.

These small acts spoke and still speak to the human side of the suburb and how unity and steadfastness were the core of the suburb.

Community Service and Passion

Former business owner, Keval Patel (90), a resident at Kennaway Hotel says Quigney could regain its stature in society by roping in people who have served the community out of passion.

"They never got paid; if they had meetings they would meet after work and dedicate their time towards the improvement of their town."

Bringing Back the Glory

Sharon Ahlschlager and Allyn Theron who lives at Weavers Hotel claim that the return of lucrative activities that were once part of Quigney's allure will be beneficial. The likes of motor racing (Formula 1 SA Grand Prix), ice cream parlours, beach theatres, Wing and Wheels, and live music that caters for all ages and races.