Monty Van der Berg, a construction company owner based in Perth, has recently taken it upon himself to assist fellow motorists by covering the cost of fuel for four individuals this week. Having faced his own financial difficulties in the past, Van der Berg is motivated by a desire to give back to the community.
On a late evening at a service station in a Perth suburb, Rachel Rose Greville, an unsuspecting driver, was approached by Van der Berg, who offered to pay for her fuel. Initially thinking he was joking, Greville was pleasantly surprised when he accompanied her to the cashier to complete the payment.
Greville, who juggles three jobs and allocates her earnings toward essential expenses, expressed profound gratitude towards Van der Berg during an interview with ABC Radio Perth. His generous act not only provided her with fuel but also benefited three other motorists, amounting to over $500 in total expenses.
“I was absolutely stunned,” Greville remarked. “He was sincere in his offer, and his humility was striking. This kind act has truly brightened my week and that of others as well. We are immensely grateful for his generosity,” she added.
Van der Berg’s altruism stands out, especially in the context of rising fuel prices, exacerbated by ongoing geopolitical tensions in the Middle East. He shared with ABC that he aims to alleviate the financial strain that many Australians are currently experiencing, drawing from his own past hardships.
“There was a time when I lived paycheck to paycheck, and now that I am in a better position, I want to assist others,” said Van der Berg, who now oversees several construction businesses throughout Western Australia. “While $100 still holds value for me, it can mean significantly more to someone else. I strive to do what I can to make a positive impact,” he stated.
Having immigrated to Australia from South Africa in 2005, Van der Berg recalled his early days working in the construction sector and living on a tight budget. He made a personal commitment to help others whenever his circumstances improved.
“I have set a personal rule to pay for at least one person’s fuel every time I visit a service station,” he explained. “My motivation is not to gain anything in return. I simply recognize how much an extra $100 can change someone’s week, and it brings me joy to help where I can.”
As the cost of living continues to rise, particularly in light of skyrocketing fuel prices linked to the ongoing conflict in Iran, many Australians are feeling the financial pinch. Although the government has instituted measures, such as reducing the fuel excise, prices remain elevated.
Van der Berg affirmed his commitment to continue assisting others as long as he is able. “It gives me immense satisfaction to help people. I act purely out of goodwill,” he concluded.
