Stepping into Namibia’s motoring history
Heritage on display
STAFF REPORTER
Namibia’s automotive heritage takes centre stage in this week’s episode of My.na Cars, as host Aina Kweyo explores one of the country’s most nostalgic gems: the Old Wheelers Club Museum in Olympia, Windhoek.
The special broadcast airs tonight at 21:00 on DStv channel 285 and GOtv channel 25, featuring an exclusive interview and guided tour with Rainer Rusch, chairperson of the Old Wheelers Club and a passionate custodian of Namibia’s vintage motoring culture.
Founded in June 1986, the Old Wheelers Club will mark its 40th anniversary next year, which Rusch promises will be celebrated with “a host of activities,” including a raffle for a classic car.
While the Olympia clubhouse is well-known for good food, cold drinks, and lively social gatherings, it’s the museum behind the building that truly captures the imagination. “This is our pride,” says Rusch. “We opened in 2017 to give members a space to showcase their vintage vehicles. The club itself doesn’t own the cars – everything you see belongs to our members.”
The museum, open every Saturday from 11:00 to 14:00 with free entry (donations encouraged), refreshes its collection every six months. Visitors can enjoy a wide mix, from sleek American cruisers and classic German Mercedes-Benz models to quirky British icons and rare microcars.
A current highlight is a 1938 Buick limousine, described by Rusch as “one of our biggest and most elegant.” Most of the vehicles on display are still roadworthy and are often driven to local events or on scenic outings around Namibia.
Membership is open to all, whether you own a classic car or not. For those who do, there’s an option to display your vehicle in the museum for a small monthly fee, which helps cover upkeep such as cleaning and basic maintenance. The club also connects the public with vintage car rentals for weddings, film shoots or special occasions, with everything from Mustangs to elegant wedding cars available – chauffeur included.
“It’s a great way to make a special day even more memorable,” says Rusch.
Preserving the past with care
While the museum welcomes visitors warmly, its rules are strict to protect the collection. “We don’t allow people to sit in or touch the vehicles unless special arrangements have been made with the owner,” Rusch explains. “We also have full security systems in place.”
In tonight’s broadcast, Rusch guides viewers through the museum, sharing stories about the cars – from their paintwork and steering wheels to the cultural significance and sentimental value they hold.
Whether you’re a motoring enthusiast, a history buff, or simply looking for something different to do on a Saturday, the Old Wheelers Club offers a fascinating glimpse into Namibia’s rich automotive past – a reminder that true classics never lose their shine.
Don’t miss the full feature tonight at 21:00 on DStv channel 285 and GOtv channel 25.
Namibia’s automotive heritage takes centre stage in this week’s episode of My.na Cars, as host Aina Kweyo explores one of the country’s most nostalgic gems: the Old Wheelers Club Museum in Olympia, Windhoek.
The special broadcast airs tonight at 21:00 on DStv channel 285 and GOtv channel 25, featuring an exclusive interview and guided tour with Rainer Rusch, chairperson of the Old Wheelers Club and a passionate custodian of Namibia’s vintage motoring culture.
Founded in June 1986, the Old Wheelers Club will mark its 40th anniversary next year, which Rusch promises will be celebrated with “a host of activities,” including a raffle for a classic car.
While the Olympia clubhouse is well-known for good food, cold drinks, and lively social gatherings, it’s the museum behind the building that truly captures the imagination. “This is our pride,” says Rusch. “We opened in 2017 to give members a space to showcase their vintage vehicles. The club itself doesn’t own the cars – everything you see belongs to our members.”
The museum, open every Saturday from 11:00 to 14:00 with free entry (donations encouraged), refreshes its collection every six months. Visitors can enjoy a wide mix, from sleek American cruisers and classic German Mercedes-Benz models to quirky British icons and rare microcars.
A current highlight is a 1938 Buick limousine, described by Rusch as “one of our biggest and most elegant.” Most of the vehicles on display are still roadworthy and are often driven to local events or on scenic outings around Namibia.
Membership is open to all, whether you own a classic car or not. For those who do, there’s an option to display your vehicle in the museum for a small monthly fee, which helps cover upkeep such as cleaning and basic maintenance. The club also connects the public with vintage car rentals for weddings, film shoots or special occasions, with everything from Mustangs to elegant wedding cars available – chauffeur included.
“It’s a great way to make a special day even more memorable,” says Rusch.
Preserving the past with care
While the museum welcomes visitors warmly, its rules are strict to protect the collection. “We don’t allow people to sit in or touch the vehicles unless special arrangements have been made with the owner,” Rusch explains. “We also have full security systems in place.”
In tonight’s broadcast, Rusch guides viewers through the museum, sharing stories about the cars – from their paintwork and steering wheels to the cultural significance and sentimental value they hold.
Whether you’re a motoring enthusiast, a history buff, or simply looking for something different to do on a Saturday, the Old Wheelers Club offers a fascinating glimpse into Namibia’s rich automotive past – a reminder that true classics never lose their shine.
Don’t miss the full feature tonight at 21:00 on DStv channel 285 and GOtv channel 25.
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