A Leisure Bay resident recently reported illegal wildlife hunting, complete with dogs, guns and bakkies. The message read: “Since early this morning (Sunday), hunters with dog packs have been gathering to take part in an organised hunt. The hunt started with a group of men blowing whistles and shouting to excite the dogs.
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“The animals, mainly bushbuck, were flushed from the bush along the R61 towards the open veld near Nzimakwe. The pack of more than 50 dogs gave chase and I could clearly hear when the dogs brought down the prey. There was much cheering and shouting. Protection Services was contacted but nothing was done.”
It’s a tragedy to see our precious wildlife, that is diminishing year by year, fall prey to this sort of indiscriminate hunting. These animals are protected by law, but the argument is that dog-hunting is a long-standing cultural activity.
Perhaps in days gone by a small pack of dogs brought down an ageing bushbuck to help feed the household. Times have changed and the practice has escalated to the use of guns, huge packs of dogs and bakkies. It is speculated that this type of dog hunting is considered big business and is spearheaded by a powerful industry.
Where are the consequences for breaking the law?
Interesting gatherings
Trafalgar Garden Club members travelled to the lovely farm house of Mary Neethling in Oribi. Driving through Oribi Gorge was a treat and the myriad of aloes in full flower in Mary’s lovely indigenous garden were breath-taking. The 15 members thoroughly enjoyed walking around the interesting garden, with the hostess explaining the many unusual varieties of aloes, succulents, cycads and strelitzia.
Nonagenarian Mary lives independently, continues to garden, gives talks on many subjects and frequently has coffee gatherings with friends and neighbouring farmers.
Trafalgar Conservation Group hosted a talk on life in Mpondoland by Sinegugu Zukulu last Saturday. Sinegugu is a passionate social and environmental activist, author, trail guide and winner of a 2019 Eco-Warrior award. The talk was well attended and enjoyed by all. Almost R2 000 was raised for conservation.
Well done
Congratulations go to Vanessa Murray and her team ‘Looking After Leisure Bay’ which recently received the mayoral runner-up award for their efforts to promote the ‘Spirit of Charity’ in Ray Nkonyeni Municipality.
Although some rain would be appreciated by thirsty gardens, we cannot complain about the outstanding weather experienced lately. Holidaymakers continue to enjoy the sunshine on the beach and the many holiday festivities on offer during the school holidays.
Fortunately, major water supply interruptions seem to be resolved for now. There are still many leaks reported, but at least Umtamvuna River water is being pumped to the waterworks.
All news to Philippa.
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