This was a very enthusiastic start to the year with an excellent turn out of twenty eight hackers despite the fact that the holiday season was still in full swing. The open space to the west of Jock’s Bay bordered by Park Crescent, Four Streams and Cliff Roads was our target area. This was hacked several years ago and had become re-infested with thickets of Australian myrtle, bottlebrush and New Zealand Christmas trees.
The group was split into three to gain access from the north, south and west, moving eastwards towards Jock’s Bay. This was a typical Betty’s Bay hack – having to wade through thick, waist- to shoulder-high fynbos to reach the aliens in hot, windless conditions. The cut material was heaped in situ rather than attempting to drag it out through the thick fynbos to the road verges. After a most welcome mid morning break for coffee, tea and sandwiches kindly made by Anne Mourant, the hackers continued where they had left off. This area was largely cleared with a few isolated patches remaining.
A big thank you to each of the hackers for giving up their time during the holiday season. A special word of thanks for the ongoing support of the hackers from Rooi Els, Pringle Bay and Kleinmond and to Viv and Harry von der Heyden for opening up their home and the coolth of their garden for the hard-earned and most enjoyable aftermath.
Wishing all hackers an excellent year ahead blessed with good health and happiness.
As ever, on behalf of the Betty’s Bay Fynbos, thank you all for your efforts.
Rob Boyd
Convenor Betty’s Bay Hack Group