Invasive Species Control Unit Central Eye in the Sky Section plots South Section’s demise

See Floral Treasures See Page 4 See Page 5 of Table Mountain See Page 6 Page 7

Table Mountain National Park • First Quarter 2009

ing areas of Tokai and Cecilia Planta- Compliance Left: Members of tions into the TMNP, the total number of • Walking with dogs must only occur the “Hikes with Fizz” group enjoy a It’s a dog’s day people walking their dogs in the TMNP in the designated areas and be Saturday afternoon Table Mountain National Park has increased accordingly. subject to any walk in Silvermine. Here Fizz - a cairn special manage- (TMNP) is one of the few national Concerns were raised about this activity Terrier - leads the parks in South Africa where recre- in the park by some stakeholders. A ment conditions group comprising her owner Sara John, fol- stakeholder group known as the Friends that may apply. ational dog walking is permitted. lowed by David John, of the Dog Walkers (FDW), met Park • All Park notices Maria Tierney, Francois A comprehensive visitor survey conduct- management in 2002, to seek ways to and Park signage de Sornay, Jill and ed by the Park a few years ago estimated Sally McKie. continue walking dogs in the TMNP. All and any legitimate that some 78 000 dog owners use the Picture by Evelyn concerned agreed that dogs, that are instruction from a Park for recreational dog walking, with Holtzhausen not managed, can negatively affect the Park official must the most popular destinations for dog environment. However, if this activity be complied with. Far left: Juliet and Farouk walking including Newlands Forest (60% McWhite with their is managed correctly these negative • All dog handlers of users), Cecilia Forest (49%), Constan- dogs Jazz and Roxy at impacts can be mitigated. The first must carry a valid Silvermine tia Nek (39%), Silvermine north (35%), Environmental Management Programme Wild Card, issued in Noordhoek beach (31%), van Riebeek (EMP), for Walkers Accompanied by their name with the necessary dog • In special management areas (as • Dogs taken into the park should Park (28%) and Scarborough Beach indicated by signage) faeces must have a valid rabies vaccination. (19%). With the incorporation of the Dogs, was adopted in 2002 and outlined walking activity permit loaded onto be removed. • Dog handlers should be popular dog walk- an appropriate ‘Code of the card. Conduct’. • Dogs taken into the Park must be • Dog handlers must ensure that their sensitive to other Park users. dogs do not injure or kill any wild life. Not everyone likes dogs and some With recent changes under effective control of the handler in legislation, the Park at all times (Should the handler or • Aggressive dogs must be muzzled. people are afraid of them. Handlers and the FDW met their dog cause an incident, the dog • No more than two dogs per person should control their dogs if anyone and began a process will be deemed to be out of control and may be taken into the Park (unless the in the immediate area seems ill at ease. of reviewing and the handler can be held liable). handler has obtained a special permit • Dogs should be leashed at the updating the EMP in • Dog handlers must always carry a from the Park). beginning and end of walks. leash. Dogs must be leashed: 2008. The outcome Etiquette The TMNP is currently conducting a is an updated Code - Upon instruction from any Park official. fresh visitor survey, the results of which Walkers accompanied by dogs are of Conduct which is - As required by any official Park notice will be instrumental for future decision expected to observe the following divided into a Com- and/or signage. making. A big challenge for Park man- etiquette: Seen at the EMP pliance (must do’s) - While passing through designated agement is providing and administering signing ceremony were representatives of • When meeting a leashed dog, the and Good Etiquette parking areas, picnic areas, and diverse recreational activities without both the TMNP and the Friends of the Dog Walkers: braai sites. handler of the unleashed dog should Back row, from left: Chris Walker, Brett Myrdal, Chad Cheney, Justin Miller. (should do’s) as compromising the experience of other provide space for both dogs to pass Front row: Taryn Blyth, Geraldine Goncalves, Phyllis Carter and Val Bennett outlined below. - If the handler is unable to control the visitors and users. dog or if it is aggressive or otherwise without contact. Should you have any queries, please dangerous. • Dog handlers should not allow their consult the Section Ranger of the area • Dog handlers must remain on Park dogs to foul footpaths and tracks; concerned. Wild card/dog walking per- approved paths and tracks at all times, hence faeces should be removed mit enquiries - please call Table Mountain Redhill section team delights unless in the event of an emergency or and deposited in bins where these National Park on 021 701 8692 an exceptional circumstance. are provided. Scarborough residents • Dog handlers must remove their dog’s • Dog handlers should not allow Photo & Story: Mathabatha Matjila faeces from paths, car parks, and any their dogs to interfere with the pleasure of other users in the Park. The TMNP Redhill Section team recently completed the second of three other demarcated areas used by park visitors and/or park staff. • Dog handlers should give right of way boardwalks near the Scarborough Beach parking area, to the delight of The exclusive Wild Card for TMNP to people unaccompanied by dogs. (Cape Town’s Wild Card), with residents in the area. Mr. Richard Gebhart, chairman of the Scarborough the necessary dog walking activ- • Dogs should be called to heel if ity permit (‘activity permit’) loaded Ratepayers Association complimented the team for their great work. “We, the handlers see horses and joggers onto the card, will constitute the the Scarborough Residents and Ratepayers Association, and the residents ‘Special Use Permit’ provided for approaching. in terms of Section 35 of the above of Scarborough, would like to say a BIG THANK YOU to you (Mathabatha) • Dog handlers should restrain their mentioned regulations. and the Construction team for the great boardwalks that you have made dogs from disturbing any wild life. Currently the Wild Card for TMNP: in Scarborough. Your assistance in this regard is greatly appreciated.” • Bitches in heat should not be • Is an electronic ‘smart card’; The team, with the help of Redhill fire monitors, erected a walked in the Park. • Costs R60; Allows 12 free entries to park pay entry points fence along the boardwalk (Cape of Good Hope, Tokai, Boulders, Oudekraal, to prevent Silvermine) and the use of braai trampling on and picnic sites at Newlands and Perdekloof); vegetation. • Allows recreational and sporting permits to be loaded onto the card for an additional fee;

Proud ranger • The additional fee for walking with team: Thembisile Karla de Bruin taking dogs is R55 Gantsho, Archie Laika for a walk in (i.e. total cost of Binda, Bongani Tokai Forest card is R115); Zungu, Unathi which allows unlimited access to Nongogo, permitted areas for Mikateko walkers accompanied by dogs. Mkhatshwa Terms and conditions apply

A Park for All, Forever ‘n Park vir Almal, vir Altyd iPaka yoluntu lonke ngonaphakade “Out-of-the-box thinking” public heed the call to help conserve the Red Data-listed African Penguin

A total of 200 nest boxes were handed niles from heat exhaustion, which is having an A map of the numbered nest boxes with to Table Mountain National by iKapa impact on these charismatic sea birds. sponsor’s names will be on display at Boulders Penguin Colony, and schools will Honorary Rangers, in partnership “Our target was 100 nest boxes and as a also receive an informative African Penguin with Dyer Island Conversation Trust; a result of the overwhelming public response nest box poster sponsored by Creda US-based Species Survival Plan and we doubled that number. We’ve seen Communications. ordinary members of the public. some wonderful out of the box thinking from iKapa Honorary Rangers will present each nest The specially designed nest boxes are a re- private citizens, mostly in Cape Town, some box sponsor with a “Friends of SANParks” sponse to the decline in the Red Data-listed Gauteng and the UK who have sponsored (South African National Parks) certificate African Penguin population. The population of nest boxes as lifelong Christmas and birthday acknowledging their sponsorship and contribu- Johan Noeth (iKapa Honorary Ranger), Leona Rasdien (TMNP Ranger) and African Penguins has experienced a dramatic presents for their children and grandchildren. tion to conservation of the African Penguin. Sue Smith (iKapa Honorary Ranger) decline in recent years to only 120 000 birds. We also have had a strong interest from The nest boxes will help conserve the Boul- eco clubs at schools around the peninsula. ders Colony population of African Penguins We still have some nest boxes available by protecting eggs from predators and juve- for schools to sponsor,” says Sue Smith, chairperson, iKapa Honorary Rangers. The Honorary Rangers is a SANParks-wide volunteer organisation that raises funds for various projects in national parks.

Accepting the 200 nest boxes, Brett Myrdal, park manager for Table Mountain National Park expressed his appreciation for the Productivity SA’s CEO Dr Yvonne Dladla congratulates Paddy Gordon on TMNP’s win. iKapa Honorary Rangers initiative with this important conservation project. He was also enthusiastic about the strong public interest TMNP as it signaled the value that citizens place on the importance of conserving indigenous Park Manager Brett Myrdal accepting one of the 200 nest boxes from wins national Sue Smith (iKapa Honorary Ranger) species in Table Mountain National Park. productivity award Fishing expedition of a Table Mountain National Park (TMNP), Cape Town’s and different kind for retired South Africa’s top tourist at- traction won the Public Sector handline fishermen category award at the annual By Penelope Cheney National Productivity Awards for: In partnership with TMNP – Marine and Two Oceans Aquar- “Outstanding achievement in ium an outing was arranged for 55 retired handline fisher- productivity improvement in the men and their spouses. The day began with a tour of the Public Sector Category”. Two Oceans Aquarium where upon seeing the phenomenally Sophia Ferreira (Steenberg) and Osbourne Clarens (Kalk Bay) and The other finalists were Johannesburg Charles Jacobus (Kalk Bay) large specimen on display many of these legendary fisher- Claire Hermanus (Kalk Bay) City Parks, LIMDEV (the Limpopo men reminisced about past fishing glories and days gone by. Development Agency), and Electricity It was sadly acknowledged by all how the oceans no longer Supply Cape Town (Technical provide the fishing communities with sustainable yields and Services Branch). how some of the species on display are no longer commonly TMNP was cited for its focus of found off our shores. its resources on its core business, Next stop on the agenda was Signal Hill where the group was the conservation of biodiversity. treated to a luncheon overlooking the beautiful city of Cape Town. Investment of resources in the natural For many this was a memorable experience as few had had the capital of the Park has increased opportunity to visit the Aquarium in the past with many others having from R20m in 1999, one year after proclamation to R57m in 2006. never visited Signal Hill. Investment in tourism and visitor Back row, from left: Peter Gomez (Kalk Bay) and The Marine Department’s community outreach programme is to be From left: Cephas Munyanyi (TMNP intern), Cecily Africa Harry (Kalk Bay). Front row, from left: Susan infrastructure grew from R11m to expanded to other fishing communities around the Peninsula. Poggenpoel (Kalk Bay) and Daphne Charles (Athlone) Michaels (Kalk Bay) and Carl Rudolph (Kalk Bay) R19m during the same period.

A group of 20 children from Ukhanyo Primary School in Masiphumelele Masiphumele kids have now formed a formal peer environment protection group known as the Wetlands Watchers, with the help of the team from Table Moun- watch Kommetjie tain National Park (TMNP).

The group was formed after 40 Grade 7 learners from the school spent one Wetlands morning out in the wetlands, with a group of staff members of the Park to cre- ate awareness of the Wetlands in the community. With the assistance of the Miss Nomfundo Booi and her learners from TMNP staff, the group was able to identify alien plants and other problems in Ukhanyo Primary School in Masiphumelele, namely: from left, Thandokazi Boyce, Sivuyisiwe the wetlands that are a result of the human impact such litter and over grazing. Mbede, Thanduxolo Mdwebu, and Buhle Ranuga enjoyed being out in the wetlands They were split into teams and each team was given a disposal camera to take with the team of rangers from the TMNP, photographs of what they considered to be “good” and “bad” in the Wet- namely: Simiselelo Masikane, Chistopher Singo, Sithembiso Sangweni, Robert Lee, Marcus lands. The Park will develop all the photographs and the winning team will be Jordaan and Marlin Joseph. awarded a group prize.

2 A Park for All, Forever ‘n Park vir Almal, vir Altyd iPaka yoluntu lonke ngonaphakade Security boost for tourists and hikers on Table Mountain Wild Card Winners Table Mountain National Park (TMNP) and the Western Cape provincial The City of Cape Town and Table Mountain National Park (TMNP) government’s Department of Economic ran competitions promoting both city parks and the TMNP to em- Development and Tourism (DEDT) ployees of both institutions. have concluded an agreement that is aimed at improving the safety and security of tourists and hiers on Table Mountain.

Through the three year agreement, valued at R250 000 per annum, the DEDT is making it possible for TMNP’s mountain guides to be available to the public at an affordable rate.

MEC for Finance, Economic Development and Tourism, Mr Garth Strachan, says: ‘Strong partnerships will help us achieve eq- uitable growth. Our partnership with TMNP Standing, left to right: Babalwa Ngudle, Lebo Masoleng, in creating sustainable jobs for tour guides MEC Garth Strachan and Zukile Matebese. Kneeling, Ziyanda Tombela and Thandi Ntsume Bozwana. is key to our success in reaching our full po- tential as a destination. Pro poor tourism is From left to right: Florence Groener, Phumeza Mgxashe (Communications mountain. To this end, the TMNP has safety on the mountain. There has been a Manager: Table Mountain National Park), Hugh George, Cecile Swart, Jan not simply about taking tourists on township produced a safe hiking brochure with tips on decline in the number of mountain crime- Kruger, Faried Shariff, Michelle Preen (Head: Environmental Communications tours, but ensuring long-term sustainability mountain safety, which has a particular focus related incidents decline. The DEDT’s initia- and Advocacy, City of Cape Town). Each City of Cape Town employee pictured won a Cape Town Wild Card, which allows 12 free entries per annum, to and the Guides Project demonstrates how on the five most popular routes. tive will co-ordinate with the TMNP visitor paypoints in the TMNP. to realise our vision.” The main goal of this DEDT and TMNP safety programme. Tourists and members of the public will be intervention is to respond to the demand for “It is fantastic that the challenge of moun- able to hire accredited mountain guides at a affordable, accredited mountain guides. tain safety can be turned into an oppor- rate of R150 per day, plus R35 per person, The five routes initially offered - with varia- tunity for a commercially viable business limited to six people tions negotiable due to weather, fitness of partnership between the TMNP and DEDT, The 14 guides are employed by the TMNP party and time available - are: supported by the CTRU,” says Brett Myrdal, on a retainer for guiding on the Hoerik- Park Manager, TMNP. • Lion’s Head spiral route waggo Trail and through this partnership • Platteklip Gorge to Upper “The main beneficiaries are the public who with the DEDT, are able to earn additional Cable Station can now afford to hire mountain guides commission for guiding the public on ad- • Upper Cableway Station to Maclear’s for themselves and their visitors, and the ditional routes. Beacon Walk – the highest point on Hoerikwaggo guides themselves who can Table Mountain has the unenviable record Table Mountain earn commission over and above their guid- of incurring more mountain deaths than • The Pipe Track along the base ing on the Hoerikwaggo Trail. Through this Mount Everest – largely because visitors to of the Apostles partnership, we are seeing the maturation of Table Mountain underestimate the dangers • Skeleton Gorge to Maclear’s Beacon: the business of the Hoerikwaggo guides – of the mountain with its altitude and year The Smuts Track who are South Africa’s first black accredited round variability in mountain weather and mountain guides to operate commercially as Joe Kruger (left), Hennie Safety of visitors walking on the mountain conditions. mountain guides,” added Myrdal. Delport (centre), Nicole Neethling (second left). With them are is vital. The Park deploys 52 visitor safety TMNP communications manager, Phumeza Mgxashe (second left) and City of An integrated approach to mountain safety Cape Town’s Michelle Preen (far right). Each TMNP employee pictured won a officers and five dogs continuously. Since For bookings, visitors should call the TMNP year’s free access to all City managed nature reserves. starts with ensuring that hikers are well their deployment four and a half years ago, Hoerikwaggo Trail office on 021 465 8519, informed and prepared for climbing the coupled with a broad campaign regarding between 07h30 and 16h00, week days.

Interim Vehicular Access at Constantia Nek

SANParks wishes to apologise for any inconvenience caused by private vehicles to Park visitors using the TMNP management track at Constantia Nek to access the Cecilia Plantation and Back Table for recreational purposes.

SANParks is under order of the Court to provide temporary unre- stricted vehicular access to the ‘Light from Africa’ business, oper- ating from Erf 839, Constantia.

Any inconvenience to the walkers, joggers, trail runners and dog walkers is regretted.

Thank you for your support of TMNP - A Park for All, Forever.

A Park for All, Forever ‘n Park vir Almal, vir Altyd iPaka yoluntu lonke ngonaphakade 3 Fish Hoek primary school are the proud winners of the schools’ Park hosts year end function for Volunteers Fish Hoek Primary art competition. Pictured here are the winners with Monique Ruthenberg who is the TMNP Section Ranger for Simon’s Town, School wins their teacher, Ms. Gail Beagely and their classmates. The winners were: Penguin Festival Katie Butler, Catherine Linklater, Caitlin Lombard, Chelsey Mar- wick, Promise Banda, Kholiwe Fani, Danielle Ellan, Sara Bell, Gail Wheeler and Caitlin Rainnie. These kids entered the grade 4- 7 Competition art competition where they had to submit a penguin statue made of recycled material. The statue had to represent the 2010 FIFA Soccer World cup and was accompanied by an essay in which they highlighted the ecotourism benefits of event in South Africa.

Their prizes were sponsored by SANParks (an overnight stay for 20 in the People’s Trail Hut on Table Mountain), Waltons, Promotional Printing, African All Sorts, Boul- ders Beach Lodge & Restaurant & Falcon Press. The Penguin Festival which they entered was The TMNP hosted a held on 27 – 28 September at Boulders and raised over yearend function for all 34 volunteer organisations that compliment the staff for the Park at Orange R80 000.00 for SANCCOB. Kloof. All were presented with certificates of appreciation by management.

Creating water wise national parks by clearing them of invasive aliens When the Table Mountain National This funding enabled the Park to quickly A contractor is, in terms of their contract controls on the Peninsula as a whole, • Do not plant invasive alien species in Park (TMNP) was established in break the back of the alien invasive plant with SANParks, obligated to provide through proper integrated planning. This your garden and encourage your 1998, it was common cause that the problem, eliminating 85% of seed-bear- transport (with a petrol allowance from involves all the partners: the TMNP, Cap- friends and family to do the same; ing woody plants within just five years SANParks), and the organisation advanc- primary threat to its future ecologi- eNature, the Regional Working for Water • Join one of the many alien clearing and resulting in a massive restoration of cal well-being was the scourge of es a grant for the purchase of protective Programme, City of Cape Town, Dept of volunteer organizations in the TMNP. indigenous mountain fynbos and ecologi- invasive alien vegetation. clothing and equipment. Agriculture and local non-governmental Call Calvin Mojapelo the TMNP cal systems. organisations. Volunteer coordination manager and Among the culprits were the Australian These beneficiaries also enjoy significant This is a nationwide problem, not confined get involved. Acacias, known locally as Rooikrans, Port training and small business opportunities, Another major initiative is a pilot pro- to the TMNP, and therefore (South Afri- Jackson, Blackwood, Black Wattle and which some of them have been able to gramme to mill alien timber removed from can National Parks) SANParks saw the Eucalypts but also various Pine species translate into permanent employment. the Park on a large scale, which could need to establish a national in-house Inva- and Hakea. “During a two year period, each member then be used in the construction of tourist sive Species Control Unit (ISCU) whose of the contracting team gets 48 days of facilities like hiking trail camps and board- This threat was magnified by the ad- mandate is to clear invasive plant species training. Thereafter contractors are exited walks, both in this Park and in others in ditional fire risk these alien plants posed from the Parks. The unit is funded by the to create opportunities for new entrants the regional cluster. Also, he plans to re- through the massive fuel load they con- Department of Water Affairs & Forestry. to the market,” says Patrick Marsh, Cape instate the “high altitude” clearing teams stituted. The type of destruction wrought In the Cape Cluster (National Parks Cluster Manager, for ISCU. who remove invasive alien plants from cliff by dense stands of aliens as a result of include Table Mountain, Agulhas, West faces and other treacherous areas. this increased fuel load was graphically The TMNP’s people & conservation Coast, Tankwa and Bontebok) the unit department assists the unit in identifying illustrated during the “Great Fires” which “Many people have derived a household Arbour Day at Langa High - Students, Elizabeth also assists, where possible, with clearing swept the southern parts of the Cape poor communities from where labour is income from doing the labour-intensive April, Liza Johnson and Tanya Abbot operations around the Park’s borders. Peninsula in January 2000. drawn. Meetings are held with com- work of looking after their Park,” says Park Equally significantly, this programme munity stakeholders to identify suitable Fortunately the new Park was able to Manager, Brett Myrdal. And he points allows SANParks to promote its social candidates for contract positions. secure very significant funding early on to out that similar opportunities are going development goals by using a significant deal with this problem, including R44 mil- The financial year ends in March 2009, to be around for decades to come. “Alien number of previously unemployed people lion from the Global Environment Facility there are currently 22 independent clearing is a 100-year task, at least – it’s from neighbouring communities to do the (GEF), R4,2 million from the French GEF, contracting teams comprising 572 people no use starting and then stopping. So this clearing work. For the year ended March R19,3 million from the Ukuvuka-Operation at work in the Park – eight teams each in is going to be a sustained programme. 2008, the ISCU employed 22 independ- Firestop campaign and R21,5 million the Northern and Central sections, and six But we have made remarkable progress ent contracting teams comprising 572 from the Department of Water Affairs and in the Southern sector – working under around alien clearing and the restoration people in the TMNP alone. Forestry between 1999 and 2006. an overall budget of some R6,5 million, of mountain fynbos into a healthy condi- First Aid Training which managers hope to repeat next year. tion. And because this means that it now Now, however, the problem is being costs less to maintain this veld, it also considered much more strategically, with means that our investment into natural a view to significantly reducing expensive, capital is now paying off, as the long-term long-term follow-up operations. Overall running costs of the Park are decreasing.” responsibility lies with highly experienced Did you know? Patrick Marsh, who was appointed at the Invasive aliens displace indigenous beginning of 2008 as Cluster Manager for species: the ISCU, responsible for all nine national Mr Wagner cutting Rooikrans parks in the Cape and Arid Clusters. • Are a big fire threat • Cause soil erosion His first major task, both here and • Clogg water systems elsewhere, has been a major review of • Change the natural ecosystems within the alien invasive situation. “We have had the biodiversity of an area to the to review and revise management unit detriment of nature clearing plans for all the parks” he says. Marsh is involved in several major plans What can you do to help? for the TMNP. Keeping aliens away… • Clear invasive aliens from your garden Back row, from left: James Nowicki, Fezile Dyosi, He’s helped establish a Cape Metro and encourage your friends and family Alfred Nemahunguni and Jason de Smidt. Seated, from left, Busi Tedile, Carlo de Kock, Milicent Nomathemba explaining Rooikrans Makoala, Carlin Petersen and Michelle Barry. Working Group to look at effective alien to do the same; and/or and Port Jackson

4 A Park for All, Forever ‘n Park vir Almal, vir Altyd iPaka yoluntu lonke ngonaphakade SANParks congratulates “touching the earth lightly” Slimy lesson for TMNP rangers SANParks Law Enforcement Rangers was the interactive session where architectural team bravely faced a slithering challenge the rangers could hold reptiles. The on 15th February when they attended trainers remarks were that the group SANParks a Snake Demo held at the Visitor was apprehensive and enthusiastic congratulates the team responsible Services Centre in KloofNek. The at the same time. They believed that for the design of purpose of the demonstration was to the rangers would be looking at the the tented camps in Orange Kloof, create awareness, address concerns, slithery creatures with new eyes. Silvermine and Slangkop. emphasize safety and desensitise The seminar was presented by From left to right: feelings towards these animals. Infor- Rudie Van Zyl, assisted by Marcel Sydney Soundy mation on their habits, activity, venom Wittberg and Lindsay Skinner, all Above: The TMNP (SANParks), Anees Adams, and first aid treatment was explained Honorary Nature Conservation Offic- ranger team based in the northern section Rod Gurzynski, in depth. An overview on handling and ers and was coordinated by Loretta Michael Slayen of the Park (SANParks), Mike catching methods was well received and Claude Steenkamp who are: Left: Neil Davies, Schroeder and with the positive interaction of the SANParks Rangers and Honorary Brett Myrdal Loretta and Claude (SANParks). group. The highlight of the morning Nature Conservation Officers. Steenkamp

Southern Section prize winners By Justin Buchmann

Far too often delivery is measured in and her team she will From the Park Manager’s desk accounting terms such as income to pull out all the stops The TMNP team really is a expenditure ratios, person days; Annual to try and regain the fantastic place to work. This is a Plan of Operations linked to budgets etc. award next year. For team that has fun doing their best While this fulfils our financial mandate it the Section and staff and the vision of SANParks “to remains impersonal and does not high- of this year’s Ranger be the pride and joy of all South light the contributions made by the indi- Section the challenge Africans and the world”, shines vidual personalities and team dynamic. is on to maintain the through the attitude and results For this reason I would like to highlight momentum that I have delivered by the TMNP team. the Working for Water-South team. This seen over the last year. team, lead by Jaclyn Smith has worked My decision was not These efforts have been recog- without a functional Annual Plan of Op- nised by the conferring of the only based on SofAIM. Standing, from left: Nombulelo Mase (WFW), eration as most of our areas burnt at the It also takes account David Baloyi (of the Cape Point ranger team), Vuyokasi Xabanisa 2008 National Productivity Award beginning of the year. This has placed of the challenges faced (Boulders Tourism Officer) and Nombulelo Emily Lombo (of the Cape for “Outstanding Achievement in Point tourism team). Kneeling, from left: Amos Lombo (Cape Point a great burden on the team to generate over the year and how the Public Sector Category”. One Section Ranger), Clive Martin (Boulders) and Mzokhona Mabaso (WFW) contracts on an ad hoc basis often with people pulled together statistic shows why – since 1998 not yet the threat of Section Rangers, myself included, mak- to find solutions to these problems. internal interviews as someone who the area of the TMNP has increased fire. The fire team has responded to ing additional demands. The operational It is so easy to throw up your hands and has potential in SANParks. This trust from 18 000Ha to 24 500Ha yet the 60 to a 100 fires but their speed and managers and staff wish to thank you for point fingers at others who have made we placed in Clive by appointing him at human resource cost of running the readiness has been such that not one your contribution and recommit ourselves mistakes. It takes maturity to recognize Boulders, has started to bare fruit and Park has decreased from 45% of has got away as yet. Touch wood. towards strengthening our collective these mistakes, learn from them and I would like to congratulate Clive on his opex to 33% of opex. This can only working relationships. then roll up your sleeves and go to work achievements to date. mean greater levels of efficiency and Some successful TMNP partner Best Tourism staff contribution – Emily fixing them, even if they are the errors of Best all round contribution – Vuy- commitment. Thanks to all of the projects are the Western Cape Gov- Lombo has shown a commitment and others. Cape of Good Hope has faced okazi Xabanisa has been working in the SANParks TMNP team and support- ernment’s Department of Economic drive towards her work that I have not many such challenges this year. We Boulders information office for some time ers for making this possible!!! Development and Tourism sponsoring seen in an individual for some time now. have had storms that caused consider- of the Hoerikwaggo guides to afford- now as an Express Personnel Staff mem- The mountain has also become a For those who do not know Emily, she able damage, major construction has ably assist users and tourists through ber. This does not mean she is not part safer place, with this festive season came from the Coast Care Project and impacted on almost all of our operational the Mountain Safety Project, and of the Southern team as all Express staff being the safest on record – and eve- has recently started her new career with staff and all this with many new staff SANParks IKapa Honourary rangers perform functions critical to operations. ry year for the last five years since we SANParks. During the relatively short setting out on their careers. Thank you under the dynamic leadership of Sue Due to vacancies and staff transfers Vuy- started to patrol with 5 dogs and 52 time with us Emily has show consider- one and all for your contribution this year. Smith have a booming and breeding okazi has had to shoulder responsibility safety rangers, the number of crime able commitment, drive and a sense of The work you have put in has not gone penguin nest project in partnership for much of what happens in the visitor incidents have decreased – due to ownership of her workplace, and these unnoticed. with SANCCOB, Cape Nature and centre. She has excelled at this task and the visitor safety team, the volunteers words come from her line managers and Marine and Coastal Management. Most improved Field Ranger - Clive the results are clear for all to see. We and to our effective partnership with colleagues alike. Emily, thank you and have made record one day sales this Martin, like Emily, has joined us recently the SAPS. In the new financial year, 2009 to strength to your elbow, I look forward to in the Simon’s Town Section. In the year, R27 000-00 in one day. The income 2010, the key task is to increase the watching your progress within SANParks for the visitor centre info office is due to The Dog Walkers acceptance of the short time he has been here here has number of citizens that buy and use in the years to come. shown considerable dedication to work hit the 2 million rand income level this re-negotiated Environmental Manage- the CT WILD card in order to keep and the ability to learn via the learner- year, another first. Vuyokazi, thank you ment Plan shows a new maturity Best Ranger Section – Simon’s Town the Park affordable for citizens, while has cleaned up over the last two years. ship program. Clive actually started by for your effort and dedication towards amongst users ready to respect the generating revenue for sustaining This year I have nominated another volunteering at Boulders. He went on to Boulders. I have no doubt that the effort different needs of others, and a conservation during lean times. We Ranger Section. This selection only has join the Visitor Safety Officers’ team at you have put in will be rewarded in the willingness to talk and listen by the look forward too to the guidance positives. Knowing Monique Ruthenberg Silvermine and was recognised during near future. TMNP team. of the newly opened Conservation The Hoerikwaggo Trail continues to Services, Cape Research Node The Southern Section challenges other TMNP to a soccer match as part of the section’s annual staff open the way for public hiking access recognition awards. At year end last year, they played against the Central Section (Silvermine & Tokai). The (CRC), for issues such as when to match was won by Silvermine with the help of their Silvermine-based coach cum match referee JJ Minye. to the wilderness of the dragon’s burn in order to restore lowland fyn- back of mountains in the sea. Slang- bos, to how best to sustain a baboon kop tented camp is now open and population under pressure. The operating, and Smitswinkel is 60% CRC plan to hire a Heritage Manager complete. Fundraising to complete – hopefully to meet the long felt need the fifth and last of the tented camps for active cultural heritage conserva- will see the Signal School tented tion instead of simply monitoring camp above Simonstown ready in the decline of heritage treasures. time for the opening of the whole Trail Next issue will also see our regional in time for the 2010 World Cup. This coverage expanded to a dedicated will meet the growing demand to hike page to promote the five parks of the whole 97km and will sustain the the Cape region and the retention of employment of South Africa’s only the regular favourite page promotion accredited black mountain guides. of one of the 22 national parks in To date all capital costs have been SANParks stable – Mapungubwe is funded by donors. this quarter’s special visit. Keep the Central soccer team. Back row, from left: Galvin Klein, South soccer team. Back row, from left: Mathabatha Matjila (coach), Happy Summer has gone and with it the de- pride in your work, and take joy in Gavin Harker, Marcus Jordaan, Robert Lee, Winston Isaacs, Martin Joseph Gantsho, Mzoxolo Binda, Zolani Manzana, Bongani Zungu and Monwabisi lights of the Blue and Red Disa’s but your parks!!! and JJ Minye (coach and referee). Front row, from left: Irvin Daniels, Isaac Canda. Middle row, from left: David Baloyi and Mzokhona Mabaso. Front row, Matlabane, Andile Poswa and Ashley Skinner from left: Loyiso Malima, Tyron Schroeder, Fagan Goodheart and Allistair Brooks

A Park for All, Forever ‘n Park vir Almal, vir Altyd iPaka yoluntu lonke ngonaphakade 5 Volunteers & HRs training programme Floral Back row, from left to right: Treasures Alice Joseph, Lea Desoutter, George Smith, Tony Rebelo, of Table Mishack Vukeya, Leonardo the upper, Versiani and Brian Moore Mountain headwaters of the Disa stream between the Middle row, from left to right: By Mark Hawthorne Aqueduct and the Hely Hutchinson Reservoir. Celeste Matthews, Reginah The Red Disa, also known as the Pride of Table Luvhimbi, Simiselelo From about the middle of December until the Masikane, and Koketso Mountain, is pollinated by the Mountain Beauty middle of January whilst hiking on Table Moun- Mothapo butterfly or Bergnooientjie, Meneris tulbaghia, Front row, tain, one might be lucky enough to spot the from left to right: which is often incorrectly referred to as the beautiful Drip Disa, Disa longicornu, in seepage Dionne Betela, Olivia Table Mountain Beauty or the Mountain Pride. Stevens, Sharon areas, on wet south-facing rock faces, in amongst The Mountain Beauty butterfly is attracted to, Kelderman, Zendra Pekeur Sphagnum moss, in Echo Valley, in the Valley of and Calvin Mojapelo and is therefore responsible for, the pollination Isolation, on rock faces in the headwaters of the (TMNP’s Volunteer of the red flowers such as the Red Crassula, manager). Disa stream and at the Aqueduct near Window Crassula coccinea and the Tritoniopsis triticea Gorge, just off the Smuts Track. This spectacular from December until March/April. Other stunning flower is of the orchid family. It is about a third red flowers, all members of the Amaryllis family of the size of the Red Disa, Disa uniflora, which that can be seen in various areas in the Table flowers in the summer months from late January Back row, Mountain National Park, mainly during March, are from left to right: until early March at seeps, high up in the moun- John James (TMNP Volunteer), tains of the Western Cape, usually along streams the Guernsey Lily, Nerine sarniensis, the Canda- Sjoerd Zandstra (iKapa HR) Middle row, from left to right: and at waterfalls on the southern and eastern labra Lily, Brunsvigia orientalis and the April Fool, Hazel Humphreys (TMNP Haemanthus sanguineus.Talking of the Amaryllis aspects. The Red Disas can be found in many Volunteer), Krisela Steyn (iKapa areas on Table Mountain - in Disa Gorge, Intake family, the stunning, pink March Lily or Bella- HR), George Smith (iKapa HR donna Lily, Amaryllis belladonna, also appears in trainer), Tony Rebelo (iKapa HR Ravine and at Hell’s Gates in the Orange Kloof trainer), Calvin Mojapelo (TMNP), area, as well as in ravines such as in Myburgh’s about March. Further to this, another member of Stan Hannath (iKapa HR), Patrick Brophy (iKapa HR) Waterfall Ravine and Nursery Ravine. Other the Amarilis family, namely the Fire Lily, Cyrtan- Front row, from left to right: popular areas where hundreds can be viewed, is thus ventricosus, will appear anytime between Natasha Beeton-Kempen (iKapa along the steam in Echo Valley, at the Aqueduct December and May, directly after a fire. HR), Ben Kempen (iKapa HR), Mike Kelderman (iKapa HR), and along Two other fairly common flowers of the orchid Kerstin Gottstein (iKapa HR) family, that can be seen during February and March, are the Blue Disa, Disa (Herschelianthe) graminifolia and the Cluster Disa, Disa ferru- ginea, both growing, unlike the Red Disa and the The training programme was as follows: Drip Disa, in the dryer fynbos. The Cluster Disa Saturday 14 February: which mimicks the nectar-producing Tritoniopsis Introduction to iKapa HRs: Sue Smith (not in photos) Movie on Natural History of TMNP triticea, of the Iris family, is also pollinated by the Principles of Ecology: Raj Rajkumar (not in photos) Flora and Fauna: Tony Rebelo Weather and Climate: George Smith Movie on People's Relationships with Mountain Beauty butterfly, although offering no Geology: George Smith Table Mountain reward to the butterfly. Sunday 15 February: Left: Mark Hawthorne with Red Crassulas Walk at Silvermine led by Sue Smith, Raj Rajkumar, Ruedi Siegenthaler and George Smith.

Cape Science Centre opens its doors at historic Tokai precinct

An exciting new local development has been the establishment by SANParks of a Cape Research Centre (Conserva- tion Services Division). The Centre, located in the historic Tokai precinct on the Peninsula, aims to advance scientific understanding of both the terrestrial and the marine ecosystem components of the Fynbos and Succulent Karoo Parks, including Table Mountain National Park.

According to Melodie McGeoch, General by Marine and Coastal Management sandy shores, etc.) diversity within the Manager of the Cape Research Centre, (MCM) as a marine scientist. He has been TMNP MPA. We also need to establish the Centre will essentially direct and brought on board because of SANParks a baseline (or collate where possible) coordinate research flowing from centres increased mandate to manage Marine data, particularly in those areas sus- of expertise at the three local universities Protected Areas (MPAs) and the need to ceptible to coastal development, e.g. – Cape Town, Stellenbosch and UWC – develop research programmes relevant West Coast National Park (expansion and link it to management requirements for the management of MPAs. In close of the port)”, he says. “We also need for the Cape Floral Kingdom as a whole. collaboration with TMNP staff, Dopolo to understand the impact of climate already has a working relationship with McGeoch says the Centre works with change-driven sea temperature South African Environmental Observation external and internal (SANParks research- changes on fish ecology (e.g. habitat Network, Marine and Coastal Management ers) to improve knowledge and under- relocation or change), which affects and the City of Cape Town in establish- standing of national parks’ biodiversity, livelihoods of coastal communities ing a sustainable research and monitoring the impact of climate change and people. and fisheries”, concludes Doplolo. programme for the TMNP MPA. Previously Professor of Conservation Ruth-Mary Fisher is an earth Dopolo further explains major tasks Back row, from left: Mbulelo Dopolo and Glynn Ecology at Stellenbosch University, systems scientist responsible for the Alard. Front row, from left: Jolene Waller, Ruth-Mary Fisher and Melodie McGeoch facing the SANParks marine team, “we Melodie McGeoch says initially her major management of external research applica- need to promote marine research that spending eight years based in Skukuza, the monitoring of klipspringers, baboon task was setting up the unit, nearly a tions. Previously she was based at the will give us a better understanding of Kruger National Park. He now also gives ecology (using funding from the Table year ago. She and her team are currently Rondevlei office in Sedgefield, and now how the MPAs are performing in respect support, where necessary to the science Mountain Fund), utilisation of inshore busy with a number of research projects acts a liaison between SANParks and to its objectives. To be specific, we need marine resources and looking at the in partnership with, for example, the the external research community. Her team at the Cape Research Centre. to establish how the TMNP MPA is likely impact of climate change on fynbos Environmental Policy Research Unit at research specialty is freshwater systems “There are many research projects performing with regard to the protec- UCT and the Centre for Invasion Biology and estuaries (that perform the function of plants, to a number of entomology tion and rebuilding of commercially and underway already. In this Park alone, at Stellenbosch University, in addition to nurseries for certain fisheries species). research projects and monitoring of the recreationally important line fish species some 99 current projects have been her main function of being the General breeding success of Verreaux’s Eagles (e.g. geelbeek, white steenbrass, red ro- Glynn Alard is a vegetation and her- sanctioned in the current year, and 18 Manager of the Centre. nesting in Silvermine. man, white musselcracker, galjoen, etc.), bivore ecologist, studying the impact of were newly registered projects whereas Mbulelo Dopolo is a marine research and keeping high species and habitat herbivores on the Parks vegetation. Alard 44 were ongoing” explains McGeoch. Jolene Walker is the Team’s efficient programme manager, previously employed (reef system, kelp forest, rocky and moved to the Cape two years ago after Research projects in the park range from administrative assistant.

6 A Park for All, Forever ‘n Park vir Almal, vir Altyd iPaka yoluntu lonke ngonaphakade Eye in the Sky compliments 24 Hour access for visitors at ground operations Tafelberg Road info centre By Justin Buchmann The TMNP Visitor Centre on Tafelberg Road is open 24hrs a day and is busier than ever... Assisting visitors with enquiries and relaying As part of the visitor safety and se- TMNP safety curity plan for the TMNP, helicopter information. patrols of high visitor use areas have been employed for the month of Feb- Calvin Mojapelo (centre), Volunteer ruary and March. These patrols will manager and largely focus on the park land in and Quintin Vaughn (right), Tourism around the City Bowl, Back Table and manager, spent Lions Head. Teams of staff have been some time tasked to undertake these patrols at the centre The first trained team. Thembinkosi and to provide an “eye in the sky” Back row from left: Robert Lee, Menzi Nxumalo, Bradley Wana, Ntsikalle (Tourism for the many hikers that frequent the Khuselo Mafuya, Christopher Singo and Clive Morris. ambassador) Front row, from left: Tyrone Schroeder, Bongani Zungu, Leona Rasdien and JJ Minye. hiking trails of the TMNP.

Helicopter operations are potentially tions of helicopter flight. Information high-risk undertakings for staff given gathering and recording was also the terrain and unique mobility of the highlighted to make full use of the machines. To this end three teams of staff time spent on flight patrol. Buchmann were selected from across the TMNP adds that aspects such as fauna and Mountains of Hope raises to undertake training in safe helicopter flora monitoring, especially invasive operations including tactical deployment plant species in the remote areas was over R100 000 for charity By Rachel Colenso in response to crime incidents and as part emphasised. It will also be expected of anti-poaching operations. of staff to record and report on erosion Mountains of Hope, the unique expedition by two mothers and The course put the staff through their problems, footpath usage, compliance their babies to raise funds for abandoned kids, successfully paces, covering both the theoretical of EMP’s, and reported fires. accomplished its aim of raising R100 000 for the abandoned aspects as well as practical skills required Finally, once the theory and safety drills babies at The Door of Hope. to plan for and respond to an incident. were completed teams were tasked to Safety of staff is our primary concern. Over the past three months, two women athletes, with their babies run through simulations and assessed Staff were drilled in safe procedures strapped to their backs, have completed a gruelling climb of the spine on their performance in real time. Team when operating in and around helicopters of The Cape Peninsula in soaring temperatures. The route they chose work is essential in successful opera- and were expected to undertake these has taken in some of the steepest and toughest mountain routes, incor- tions and it was clear from the training actions correctly while under stressful porating all the peaks from Cape Point to Lion’s Head. They completed that not only were skills sharpened but and pressured situations. This training their journey on the summit of Lion’s Head on 21 December, accom- better team cohesion and communica- would not have been possible without the panied by over 70 supporters who joined the mass ascent to raise support of the SANParks flight section, tions promoted. funds for The Door of Hope. Their journey covered more than 145km of namely pilot Charles Thompson. Having This course was just the start. The teams rugged terrain and ascended over 8000m. the helicopter and pilot on hand to prac- will continue to train throughout the year Mountaineer Rachel Colenso (39) and daughter Rosemary (18 tice in real time made all the difference. and will be ready to fly in the mountains months), accompanied by Charlotte Noble (42), a previous Comrades Planning for patrols included detailed and tackle crime come the festive sea- Marathon winner and Everest expedition doctor, and her daughter understand of the benefits and limita- son and 2010. Anna (1 year), have so far raised over R100 000 in donations and support for The Door of Hope, a charity that provides homes for aban- doned babies. Every Vote counts R100 000 provides milk for 34 babies for over nine months. (R25 feeds a baby for three days.) TABLE MOUNTAIN IN RACE FOR WONDER OF NATURE TITLE “Mountains of Hope” also aimed to encourage outdoor family exercise and raise awareness of Table Mountain National Park (TMNP) as a Table Mountain has been selected The New 7 Wonders of Nature will be panel of experts will select the 21 final- as the official nominee to represent determined by votes from the public and ists - these will be announced on July 21 premier eco-destination. Rachel Colenso presented Table Mountain South Africa in a global New 7 Won- South Africans can show their support when the third and final phase of voting National with a Friends of the Door of Hope certificate in appreciation ders of Nature campaign. for the Mother City’smajestic mountain by will begin. The official New 7 Wonders of of the support given to the visiting www.votefortablemountain.com Nature will be revealed in 2011. expedition. The New 7 Wonders Foundation in Zurich, and casting their vote. Switzerland announced on Wednesday South African national nominees January 7 that Table Mountain is one of A partnership committee, led by Table that did not make it through the first Delighted to be receiving Mountain Aerial Cableway Committee round include the Cape of Good Hope, the 261 magnificent natural sites from the certificate 222 countries that have made it through (TMACC) in partnership with Table the Kruger National Park and the on behalf of to the second round in this global race to Mountain National Park, has been formed Vredefort Crater. Table Mountain National Park and is ready to implement a marketing name the New 7 Wonders of Nature. More than 1 billion votes are forecast. are, from drive to garner the support of ordinary left:From left: Other iconic natural sites to come through To cast your vote for Table Mountain visit Zane Basha, South Africans for the campaign. the first round include the Grand Canyon, www.votefortablemountain.com Clive Morris and Loch Ness, Mount Fuji, the Amazon, the Voting in the second phase to select the Contact TMACC on 021 424 0015 Andries Adonis Great Barrier Reef and Niagara Falls. top 77 runs until July 7 this year, when a for information.

A Park for All, Forever ‘n Park vir Almal, vir Altyd iPaka yoluntu lonke ngonaphakade 7 Mapungubwe National Park - going back in time Come and join a diverse group of pilgrims and share unforgettable moments sipping sundowners at the confluence of the legendary Limpopo and Shashe Rivers, watch the eagles soar over Botswana and Zimbabwe's skies, hear the echo of elephant trumpets, take a tree top walk or just relax and absorb the surroundings... Mapungubwe National Park and World Heritage Site is rich in biodiversity, great scenic beauty, and the cultural importance of the archaeo- logical treasures of Mapungubwe.

This is the vast and open space where Limpopo river and animals have always luck. White-fronted Bee-eaters breed in inhabitants of the present day Zimbabwe, been able to wander around in the area the river banks and are very prominent. Botswana and South Africa lived and of present-day South Africa, Botswana African Fish Eagle will make their pres- traded nearly 2000 years ago. Visit the and Zimbabwe. This is the reason South ence known too. iconic and imposing Mapungubwe Hill, Africa signed a memorandum of under- The confluence is a great place to scan where a developed civilisation prospered standing with Botswana and Zimbabwe for passing raptors, while several other between 1200 and 1270 AD. During this on June 22nd setting out principles for species are easy to locate. time, the area was already inhabited by a the Limpopo-Shashe Transfrontier Con- growing Iron Age community as far back servation Area Animals to seek as 900 AD and traded with places such Accommodation: Eland, Blue Wildebeest, Bushbuck, Duik- as Egypt, India and China. This is the Birding in Mapungubwe er, Red Hartebeest, Giraffe, Warthog, Leokwe Camp place where archaeologists excavated Because of its new status, the park is rel- Elephant, Lion, Cheetah, Wild dog, Kudu, This is Mapungubwe’s main the now famous golden rhino and other atively unexplored birding wise and with Zebra, Impala, Klipspringer, Steenbok, camp, located in the eastern sec- evidence of a wealthy African its proximity to Botswana and Zimbabwe, Gemsbok, Bush Pig, Baboon, White tion of the Park in the spectacular kingdom. all sorts of species can be seen. Rhino, Leopard, Hyena and Aardvark. sandstone hills. Close to the Species such as Meve’s (Longtailed) camp guests can enjoy the Tree- Starling, Tropical Boubou and the Fun in the Park top Hide and the Confluence View reclusive Pel’s Fishing Owl should be There are many fun things for the family Site & Picnic Area. The camp itself searched for (one of the local farmers to do in Mapungubwe National Park has a swimming pool and sundeck, as reportedly has one nesting on his farm). including guided heritage tours, guided well as a shared braai area. There is a high density of Verreaux’s game drives and guided walks. (Black) Eagle in this craggy landscape Limpopo Forest Tented Camp and other raptors are also prominent. Kings & Riches This camp, situated in the Limpopo What makes Mapungubwe a World Particularly enticing is an abundance riverine forest which offers excellent Heritage Site and a place of pilgrimage of cuckoo species in summer with up birding, is located in the western is the amazing history of Mapungubwe to eleven different species being found, section of the Park. The camp is General Information including the rarer Common and Thick- Hill and its surroundings. The people close to the Maloutswa Pan hide. To view the accommodation rates, refer billed Cuckoos. that inhabited the area between 900 and to the tariffs document on (www.san- 1270 AD were cattle and crop farmers Tshugulu Lodge An interesting attraction of the park is who extensively participated in the Indian parks.org/parks/mapungubwe) the occurrence of species typical of This luxury lodge sleeps 1 x 12 in the Ocean trade with Egypt, India and China. Best time to travel: Park Management the arid western regions of the country guest lodge with 6 x bedrooms, a bath, Their wealth and the physical division advises that the best time to visit is (e.g. Southern Pied Babbler, Crimson- en-suite swimming pool and an exclusive between the sacred leader and the com- April to September. The rainy season is breasted Shrike and Black-faced (Black- eco-trail. moners were a first for Southern Africa between October and March. cheeked) Waxbill) occur alongside spe- – the disintegration of the kingdom still Vhembe Wilderness Camp cies associated with the moister Lowveld Cholera: No cases of cholera have been puzzles scientists. habitat of the Kruger National Park . In the eastern section of Mapungubwe reported in the Botswana, Zimbabwe National Park, Vhembe Wilderness Camp and South Africa junction, where the At Leokwe Camp Verreaux’s (Black) has been built on a small ridge within Park is located. Eagle nest on the cliff face above the a valley, within walking distance of the reception block. Malaria: Mapungubwe is a malaria area Limpopo River and Mapungubwe Hill. and visitors are advised to take prophy- The most prominent bird is probably the lactic ahead of their visit. Cinnamon-breasted (Rock) Bunting, Mazhou Camping Site Other facilities: The park will open a but other species associated with bush The Mazhou Camping Site in Mapun- The Mapungubwe National Park is a restaurant in August 2009. There is no and rocky environments are common gubwe National Park is situated close to World Heritage Site and the following shop or filling station in the Park. too. Blue Waxbill and Black-backed the Limpopo Forest Tented Camp in the are the main visitor drawcards: Puffback are also particularly common. Western Section of the Park caters for The Lost City: Wildlife and Scenery: The Limpopo Tree-top Boardwalk and 10 caravans or tents, and each camping To book your stay in Sandstone formations, mopane wood- hide is a magnificent facility allowing the Rock Art site is equipped with a powerpoint. Mapungubwe National Park lands and unique riverine forest and visitor into the trees alongside the birds baobab trees form the astounding scenic Mapungubwe has an abundance of Guests intending to overnight at Mazhou Tel: 015 534 2014 or looking down on those that forage backdrop for a rich variety of animal life. traces of the earlier times of human Camping Site are required to check in at Fax: 015 534 0102 on the ground and lower strata. Meyer’s Elephant, giraffe, white rhino, eland, habitation. The San and their forebears the Mapungubwe Main Gate. Parrot, White-crested Helmetshrike, gemsbok and numerous other antelope roamed the area for 5000 years. They Meve’s (Longtailed) Starling and some species occur naturally in the area. left over 150 (documented) rock art sites flycatcher species will be seen. Both Visitors have also spotted predators in the Limpopo/Shashe confluence area, Tropical and Southern Boubou occur. Rowena Goodheart, tourism officer at Buffelsfontein like lions, leopards and hyenas. Birding a rich library of painted and engraved Visitor Centre at Cape Point, hands Bernard Joemat of enthusiasts will be able to tick off 400 Birding from the hide in the riverbed will images that provide insight into the world Newfields his Cape Cluster Wild Card prize species, including kori bustard, tropical vary depending on water levels in the and beliefs of these hunter-gatherers. boubou and pel’s fishing owl. river and can be very rewarding. Pel’s Depiction of Kudus is very typical for the Fishing Owl are around, so hope for rock art shelters in this area. Readers’ Transfrontier tourism icon: The Iron some Competition Age civilisation of Mapungubwe was not limited by the Question: What is the website address to vote for Table Mountain as one of the new 7 Wonders of Nature?

Answer ......

Name ...... Address ...... Tel/Cell No......

Prize: Family Cape Cluster Wild Card* Valued at R470 - will ensure free entry to all national parks in South Africa for the winner, their spouse and dependent children. * terms and conditions apply Deadline: 30 April 2009 Mail your answer to: The Editor, Park News, Phumeza Mgxashe, P.O Box 37, Constantia 7848

8 A Park for All, Forever ‘n Park vir Almal, vir Altyd iPaka yoluntu lonke ngonaphakade