Umtamvuna Views: Nhlanhla cleans up in Port Edward
He is a familiar sight around the streets of Port Edward, affectionately known as the ‘Trolley guy’.
A diligent and hardworking man has been silently cleaning the town of carelessly tossed and unsightly litter. Nhlanhla Yolisa is a familiar sight around the streets of Port Edward. Affectionately known as the ‘trolley guy’, he takes his job very seriously.
Many years ago, the idea was hatched by Vivian Zanner and Cecil Armstrong who were active members of the local ratepayers’ association. Cecil built the trolley and later the conservancy took over the support of Nhlanhla and his trolley.
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Sponsors were approached and many local businesses generously contribute to this worthwhile project. GP Security assists with the admin and some residents also donate towards this.
Nhlanhla is part of Port Edward Conservancy and plays an important role in keeping our pretty town looking tidy. He also assists with removing outdated signs, painting bins, and so on. He has a ready smile and is well liked by locals.
Those who spot Nhlanhla are urged to acknowledge him – and on a hot day, a cool drink would be appreciated. He is such an asset to the community. Anybody wanting to contribute or get involved with the local conservancy can contact Jen Els at 083 6319278 or Mick Getkate at 082 7744557.
Silver sards
South Coasters have been on high alert for sardines over the past few weeks and fishermen at Splash Rock have been reeling in shad, game fish and shark, but no sign of the elusive silver fish. Reports are that large shoals are moving north past Mbotji and the Wild Coast. Many trucks have been loaded with empty crates and locals await the excitement of the hunt and big sardine yields.
A tale of two mice
Some weeks ago, a resident came across two newly-born dormice (perhaps the mother had been eaten by a roving cat or snake). Knowing the reputation of local restaurateur Alex Prescott as raptor expert and animal lover, she handed over the tiny babies to Alex, who had never reared mice, or any other tiny animal.
Luckily she has an instinct for handling creatures and she soon had the tiny duo literally eating (sucking) out of her hand. The babies are a few weeks old now and are adventurous – she often has to search under the furniture to retrieve them.
Tinker goes awol
On June 1, Terry and Lyn Hill decided to take a relaxing break at a friend’s cottage at Mboyti on the Wild Coast. They travelled with their three dogs in the enclosed back of their bakkie. About 5km past Bizana, Terry noticed that his Jack Russel ‘Tinker’ had pushed open the sliding side window and was sticking her head out.
He pulled over to close the window, but was horrified to find that Tinker was gone. He turned the vehicle around and scoured the roadside, expecting to find his beloved dog dead or badly injured. They retraced the route three times that day with no sign of Tinker.
He and Lyn returned home dejected and the next day Lyn printed hundreds of flyers offering a R2 000 reward. All available personnel from The Works and Rowan Garden Services ventured into rural areas to communicate with locals who may have information. More flyers were posted everywhere in the Bizana area and Terry and loyal assistant Sandiso Sotshintshi visited schools, shops and spazas.
On June 13, Terry received a call to say Tinker had been found on the outskirts of Bizana by a passing truck driver. She was running along a gravel track some 2km off the main road. Sandiso was dispatched to identify the dog and send a photo back to an anxious Terry. There was a tearful and happy reunion and Terry and Lyn are hugely grateful to the many caring people who were instrumental in finding Tinker.
Two markets
The Strawberry Lane Street Market will be located all along the streets near the intersection of Ramsay and Owen Ellis (main hub of Port Edward). Go along from 8am to 2pm. The Morning Market at the Methodist church will host stalls with all sorts of goodies from 9am. There will also be a car boot sale. Both markets take place this Saturday.
Meet Sinegugu
Don’t forget the environmental talk by Sinegugu Zulkulu, an expert on Pondo culture, medicinal herbs and much more. He has written 10 books and recently won an ‘Eco-Warrior’ award. Meet Sinegugu at the Trafalgar Pinkster Church on Saturday, June 29, at 4pm. Entrance is a R20 donation towards Trafalgar Conservancy. For more info, contact Tracy at 071349078.
RIP Alec
Luise and Alec Gurr moved to Port Edward more than 20 years ago. Alec part-owned Munster Hardware and Luise worked as receptionist for a local dentist. Five and a half years ago Alec suffered a stroke, leaving him significantly paralysed and three months ago he suffered another. He fought bravely to overcome his handicaps, but sadly Alec (69) died last Thursday from pneumonia.
All are invited to remember him at an informal gathering at Port Edward Country Club this Friday (28th) at 3.45pm. Alec leaves his wife Luise, two sons and three grandchildren. He was a popular and involved member of the community who loved fishing and playing golf. In his youth he was a keen surfer in Amanzimtoti and represented KZN in long boarding. He will be sorely missed.
All news to Philippa.
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