This month’s efforts were to try to complete the area to the East of Crassula Crescent. We have not quite completed this as there was a lot more than we had anticipated.
The main invasive is Rooikrantz, and these have been heavily ‘sculpted’ by the prevailing South Easterlies. This makes access to the main stem or trunk somewhat more difficult – to put it mildly.
We ended up in a rather confined space with chainsaws working at the edges and draggers making large piles of debris. It was very hard work for all as the Rooikrantz is dense.
The close proximity of all the group members seemed to engender the kind of camaraderie that inspires us to even greater efforts, and typifies the attitude that makes the hacks so successful.
A mighty task still remains, but we will complete the clearing of this area.
The fynbos is already showing that it will recover- there are numerous areas where the recovery and regrowth is obvious. This, of course, is why we hack and it makes all our efforts more than worthwhile.
We will be keeping in close contact with the staff at the Stony Point Penguin Colony to ensure that we do not disturb the avian residents and can supply them with material when they require.
This area will return to its proper state, though we will, of course, have to monitor its recovery.
As was mentioned at the aftermath gathering, this was my last hack as Convener. Rob Boyd will be taking over the reins. Thank you, Rob. You will have all my support and I’m sure that of everyone else too.
It has been an amazing 5 years and want to thank each and every one of the hackers for all you have done both in terms of hacking and in terms of your support to me.
I am not giving up hacking and will see you all next month.
David Mourant – Retired Convener Betty’s Bay Hack Group
On behalf of the Betty’s Bay hackers I would like to thank Dave for the tremendous work he has done as convenor of our hack group over the past five years. His energy, input and dedication are remarkable. Big boots to fill, but we all know that Rob’s feet will definitely fit! Should you wish to join the hackers contact Rob on 082 567 8858. (Editor)