REPORT ON HACK No 735 – 3rd May 2025
Twenty two volunteers attended. This was the fifth hack of the year at the Dawidskraal River. Access to the river was unaffected by some soaking rain two days before. It was very pleasing to see the return of a number of hackers who haven’t participated for some time, a big welcome back to Trevor, Darren, Martin and Gavin.
The northern section was successfully completed in the first hour with the removal of some large myrtle from the western side of the river bank of the main channel. A long chain of draggers removed the cut branches to the western fire break for the last time where the staff from the botanical gardens have vehicular access for their removal.
The entire group then moved sixty metres downstream to tackle another huge myrtle infestation with some rooikrans and Acacia elata thrown in for good measure. A central heap was established which allowed the chainsaw operators to work on all sides with relatively short distances for the draggers to bring the branches back through the thick and head high fynbos.
A big thank you to Dave for making a special trip to bring Anne’s delicious sandwiches together with all that is needed for the coffee and tea break.
At the aftermath a group decision was made to return to the Dawidskraal River in June to finish up what we’ve started provided the weather allows.
A special word of thanks to those who travel from Pringle Bay and Kleinmond to support us, it is not taken for granted and always greatly appreciated.
As ever, on behalf of the Betty’s Bay Fynbos, thank you all for your efforts.
Rob Boyd
Convener Betty’s Bay Hack Group.