The Go! community has rallied behind Raymond Calder, the elderly pool cleaner who walks kilometres around East London daily carrying heavy equipment on his back.
Currently, good Samaritans have managed to raise R14,600 toward a R25,000 motorcycle that will help him get around and continue earning an honest living.
With R10,400 still outstanding, the fundraising drive has since gained momentum after the 70-year-old’s story of perseverance struck a chord with our readers across the city — igniting a wave of compassion from ordinary residents, businesses, and motorcycling groups who are determined to help him regain mobility and dignity.
The fundraising initiative was spearheaded by Alton Beckmann. He said that Calder’s situation demanded urgent community intervention.
“This is not someone asking for a hand-out,” Beckmann said.
“This is a man who wakes up before sunrise, walks long distances in extreme heat, and works until his body can no longer cope, all just to survive.
“When we saw that his motorcycle could no longer be repaired, we knew we had to step in.”
Beckmann confirmed that the Adventure Off-Road Motorcycle Group founded by Martin Harmse, had made donations toward the rebuild, while the public had been encouraged to contribute through Rescue Ranger Motorcycles, using the reference ‘Pool Guy’.
“The aim is simple, to get Ray back on a motorcycle, so he can work safely and with dignity. Every rand brings us closer,” he said.
Rescue Ranger Motorcycles director Eugene Knoetze said the organisation had supported Calder for years, assisting with parts, repairs, and maintenance on his previous motorcycle and sidecar.
“Ray received one of our sidecars from one of our customers years ago, and we have been helping him ever since,” Knoetze said.
“Unfortunately, the motorcycle itself reached a point where it could no longer be repaired and had to be replaced.”
Knoetze confirmed that Rescue Ranger is currently rebuilding the sidecar and supplying a new motorcycle, with work already underway.
“What amazes us is Ray’s perseverance. Even without transport, we’ve seen him walking on the road, pushing on despite everything.
“He chooses honest work over giving up or depending on others.”
He said Rescue Ranger’s work is rooted in community upliftment.
“We believe it’s important to assist people who are trying to uplift themselves. Perseverance and persistence matter, and there are people willing to help. Our slogan says it all: delivering hope. one ride at a time.”
While the motorcycle fundraising continues, Kerry Bauer has already made a meaningful difference by donating a golf cart trolley to help Calder transport his tools and chemicals.
“I had originally built the trolley for an elderly woman who feeds birds, but she didn’t want it,” Bauer said.
“I kept it, knowing I would find the right person.”
That person turned out to be Calder.
“When I saw his story, it was impossible not to help.
“Walking in relentless summer heat, while carrying pool chemicals is brutal.
“This trolley doesn’t remove the walking, but I hope it makes his daily grind easier,” Bauer said.
Calder’s determination and pride deeply resonated with her.
“When you see someone working hard with that level of strength and dignity, and you’re able to help, you should.”
Martin Harmse, founder of the Adventure Off-Road Motorcycle Group WhatsApp chat, which consists of 110 members, has been instrumental in organising the motorcycle donations.
“The aim of the group is to appreciate the adventure of motorcycling, to create community, and to assist where we can.”
Harmse said he loved seeing Calder in town riding his old motorcycle for many years.
“It is always so encouraging to contribute and think outside the box. Even in tough times, he still has the motivation to work.”
He said the group was keeping in close contact with Rescue Ranger to track deposits and progress on the motorcycle.
“I hope this helps Raymond carry on with his business and continue providing for himself.
“Anyone can join our group and be part of community initiatives like this, just contact 082-441-3137.”
Speaking to the Go!, an emotional Calder expressed heartfelt gratitude to everyone who has stepped forward to assist him.
“I never expected this,” Calder said.
“I am truly grateful to everyone who has helped, the people who donated, those who shared my story, and those still trying to assist. I just want to work and look after myself.
“This help gives me hope and it shows me I’m not alone,” Calder said.
How to help
Donations toward Calder’s new motorcycle can be made to:
Rescue Ranger Motorcycles
FNB Gold Business Account
Account number: 631 491 571 32
Branch: Vincent Park
Reference: ‘Pool Guy’
With the finish line in sight, organisers and the Go! hope the remaining R10,400 will soon be raised, proving that when a community comes together, dignity, hope and humanity can still triumph.
