After no response for several weeks, Raats had all but given up when she was contacted by new Modderfontein Conservation Society member and Modderfontein Reserve honorary ranger, Sean Byrne offering his services.
A meeting was arranged at which Byrne studied a plan of the village. Even before setting foot outside, Byrne had decided on the most likely location of underground water.
A site visit followed and Byrne backed up his estimate with divining rods and his own powerful gift of divination. “There’s much water flowing here,” he said. “Up to 1 200 litres an hour.” He also suggested that the location was no more than about 15m underground.
It’s now up to Raats and the village committee to decide how to move forward. “I had been thinking about a full-blown borehole,” said Raats. “However, I might now have to revise my ideas and think around a well and maybe an elevated reservoir.” Initially it is planned to use the borehole to water common, nearby areas in the village, but this could be extended in time.
Chairman of the village committee Charles Power expressed his appreciation to Byrne for his time, effort and generous advice.