Luca Hart, SANParks honorary ranger, Table Mountain Region
Each year the SANParks Honorary Rangers acknowledges outstanding and innovative initiatives that have been instrumental in supporting SANParks in its mission to protect our natural environment.
This year, the award went to the Table Mountain Marine Support Group, a collaborative project between marine scientist and honorary ranger Sally Sivewright and ranger sergeant Tyron Schroeder of the Table Mountain National Park Marine Unit.
Under their tireless direction, the Table Mountain Marine Support Group (consisting of SANParks honorary rangers of Table Mountain Region and other volunteers) has embarked on numerous initiatives this past year that have made deep changes in the marine ecosystems, as well as local communities. Their work included checking permits and enforcing bag and size limits at known poaching hotspots – crucial steps in the fight against illegal fishing. They’ve also organised hands-on beach clean-ups with local groups, bringing communities together to care for their coastline and raise awareness about marine conservation.
The support group has also transformed the Table Mountain Marine Unit’s Kommetjie offices and gardens by carrying out essential maintenance, renovation, and painting. One highlight included creating an outside chill area for the rangers with the addition of an eco-brick bench, crayfish trap table, and outdoor braai.
Over the last year, the support group has assisted various community initiatives and participated in a Marine Unit joint operations and skills exchange programme. They have also assisted SANParks conservation students in conducting surveys of periwinkle in restricted areas, providing invaluable data for marine research.
A stand-out initiative has been the facilitation of a five-day swim training course for Marine Unit rangers and environmental monitors, led by swimming coaches, lifeguards, NSRI rescue swimmers and free divers.
The above projects are just a sample of what the Table Mountain Marine Support Group has achieved over the last year. Their work is essential and never-ending, and their reach extends to all corners of our beautiful but fragile Cape Peninsula.
Congratulations to Sally Sivewright and Tyron Schroeder, and the TMNP Marine Unit, for this well-deserved recognition. Your commitment to preserving our precious marine ecosystems inspires us all.
