A few weeks back, Campbell Malherbe attended an overlanding trip in the Overberg that inspired a dream to build his own 4×4 community.
“I have given it a lot of thought, and would really love to start a group where I lead trips so that others may experience the ultimate overland gear. My dream is to start a community to help get people out there.”
Now, that dream is closer to reality. Through Titans SA and Fools End 4×4, Campbell has created a pair of platforms that brings together industry leaders, overlanding enthusiasts and adventure seekers.
“This is a purely independent venture for myself and an industry friend (Rohann Nieuwoudt, from Iron Man 4×4) who are passionate about 4×4 and Overlanding. We are both love our brands and the products we manufacture. There’s power in doing these trips together. A lot of good will come from it. That’s why we’ve opened the door and invited others to take this journey with us.”
A Dream Turned Mission
What started as a vision to share the thrill of overlanding has evolved into something far greater. Titans SA unites top brands including Ironman 4×4, Frontrunner, Opposite Lock and Alu-Cab). Then, Fools End 4×4 leads trips designed to test gear, build skills and forge friendships.
“The first trip affirmed my beliefs in our product and how we’re selling a lifestyle. Something that can evolve depending on the gear you choose. Something that can take you all over the world.”
And that’s exactly what happened when Cam and company took to Grabouw’s mud-slicked trails. Along with the obstacles there was wild camping under stormy skies, an opportunity to test gear and the coming together of community.
Living the Brand, Proving the Product
Campbell’s philosophy is clear. Don’t just sell it, live it.
“I believe one of the best marketing strategies is one where you live what you are trying to market. Telling customers how it works is one thing, but showing them and physically putting it to the test is what is important.”
This ethos shined through when someone on the trip (no names will be mentioned in order to protect the guilty), rolled their Jimny, fortunately with minimal damage. The car was 100% fine, as our Shadow Awning took the knock and saved both the Jimny and the driver’s life.
“Testing a product in a factory is one thing, testing a product in the bush is where it’s at. Understanding the limits and thresholds of the products, seeing the tweaks needed and how updates on products have improved the experience.“
Living the Lifestyle
At the core of Fools End 4×4 is changing how people experience adventure.
“Beyond 4x4ing, the community is here for the customer. We always have fun, but the trips are purpose-driven. That purpose is getting our communities to fully experience this lifstyle.”
With Misty the adventure dog riding shotgun in her custom ammo box bed, she’s quickly become the mascot for these trips. In fact, she’s as much a part of the Alu-Cab Jimny as some of the accessories that have been added onto it.
“Misty is both my passenger and guide. She keeps me cool when I panic because I know I need to care for her and ensure her safety. She loves these trips, and just as much as I do, she loves the bush. Misty sits in an old Ammo box which I have lined with a blanket to ensure a tight fit. I then tie in the box bed with the seat belt to ensure if anything happens, she is safe in her box. Even with all the movement of the car on the trail, she sits comfortably.”
Stronger Together
Campbell’s original dream was to get people out there is growing faster than ever. By breaking down barriers between brands and enthusiasts, he’e proving that the best adventures happen when we share the road.
“Camping in such extreme conditions is a great test of product. Not many will camp in the rain and cold. But we just made a bigger fire. Nothing wrong with a bit of weather.”
So, what’s next? More trails. More stories. And more people discovering the overlanding lifestyle they never knew existed.
Join the journey. Follow Fools End 4×4 to be part of a community.
Photographs by Cayne Philander at Eighty Media