Greater St. Lucia Wetlands Park

Crazy Festive Season after many years of drought

2011-12-20T07:02:00.000+02:00

The Greater St Lucia Wetlands Park has been plagued with bad management decisions since 1999. First and foremost is the ban of use of recreational beach vehicles. This was a great part of the financial support generated by the previous authorities to manage the health of the very important Marine Estuary environment. Since the government needed to get Mr Vali Moosa on UICN. Most of South Africas Coast Line has been covered in hard surface development and the rest is rocky shore line and can not be utilized for RUV's (Recreational Utility Vehicles). This impacted on the annual average tourist visits since the early years the impact was spread over the winter and summer period.

With a 100 school holidays per year it was clear the the environment has 265 days to recuperate. With hard surface developments currently planned by iSimangaliso Wetland Park Authorities behind closed doors with out public participation or with out a Integrated Management Plan that is available for public viewing no one knows what their future entails and where and what to expect. The Authorities has recently pushed down a section of Green Belt/Conservation area that belonged to the local Municipalities and build a water reservoir for their own personal needs with out Environmental Impact Studies or the approval of the local Municipality.

Recent Chaos at the Sodwana Gate has once more proven their lack of planning and management skills. It is clear that the park is being redeveloped to accommodate only very rich upmarket foreign tourists and access that was granted over the past 80 years to domestic tourism has been revoked with out consultation or prior advertisement or knowledge. This leads to mass cancellations of accommodations and an exodus to cross boarder venues. With the imbalance of influx of South African tourist evenly spread over winter and summer holidays the people at the craft markets are worst impacted and the divide between rich and poor is getting bigger and the heritage suffer from the haddock un planned hard surface developments popping up like mush rooms all over a pristine coastal Heritage Site.

"While hundreds of local and international tourists are soaking up the sun at St Lucia's iSimangaliso Wetland Park in KwaZulu-Natal, poor rural people living around it are raking in the money this festive season." From Times Live

Manipulation of mass media from time to time always distort the true reflection of a planning phase gone wrong and cowboy tactics deployed to do crisis management from season to season. The utilization of this coastal heritage was always a well thought out plan with low human impact even with high utilization all across the seasons. The infrastructure that was taken over is poorly maintained and has deteriorated beyond economical value. The marine estuary is nothing more than a swampy mud bath and have not functioned as a marine nursery in almost 9 years. This alone is a catastrophe for the greater Marine health of the coast line between Kosi bay and Richards Bay.

If something is not done soon this ad hock cow boy style development will leave this pristine holiday destination in taters with hard surface development done by an irresponsible manager all over the place and changing the face of this pristine wilderness area all generations to come.

The public needs participation in the planning phases.
The Communities needs access to the development and management plans.
The utilization areas needs to be reinstated so a healthy spread is given over a section of area large enough to handle the impact and not all concentrated in one small area with over development and crazy out of control masses gathering to enjoy the freedom lost.

by: Petrus Viviers
081 342 7371

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St Lucia Estuary - Water Update

2011-12-12T00:41:00.001+02:00

iMfolozi River flowing into the ocean taking millions of metric tons of sediment dumping it onto the Tugela Shelve and silting up the rocks and estuary/river mouths. This is mainly due to sugar cane farming that turned low lying flats with reeds, swamps and wetlands into agricultural land. The process is aggravated in the catchment area through poor soil control. Government is claiming that they inherited a poor Government in a post Apartheid election, but they neglected job creation that maintained the roads, storm water drainages and top soil management.

The Estuary system is a low energy system that is aggravated during dry spells. High energy flash floods bringing down million metric tons of top soil with out running through various filtering systems clogs up the lake and Estuary. The low energy drainage through rainy season and tidal interaction cannot clear the sand bar built up. Other than high seas and Cyclones only mechanical intervention can clear the sediment built up.

Poor management over the past 11 years and drought has played havoc on marine life since St Lucia Estuary is the only functional system between Kosi Bay and Richards Bay Harbour. Said Harbour has not been well maintained either in currently experiencing high pollution levels due to poor infra structure management and wind directions that prevails during dry spells.

None of this is going to change soon with the iSimangaliso Wetland Park Authority deploying capital draining hard surface development that not only stops a eco system from functioning by it self, but increases pollution and hamper animal migration.

The new paved parking areas is a huge improvement of the neglected dirt parking areas, but it effectively increases storm water drainage, limits vehicles per parking area and changes the dune area and blow out zones for ever. a Blow out zone is the area where the wind will blow accumulated sand out and form the vegetated dune range. This paved development has effectively now established the dune are and the ever altering dune areas has now been fixed by man made abstractions. This will have a push back effect on the sediment and a larger sediment built up in front of the Estuary mouth will lead to longer periods of closure.Thus leading to a decrease in spawning time and less and less fish will breed every year.

All in all man made intervention spells the death of our planet.

by Petrus Viviers
081 342 7371

Another Day in the life of - Deiric Walsh

2011-08-17T16:01:00.003+02:00

St Lucia Boat Cruise
iSimangaliso Wetlands Park

Fish Eagle - (Haliaeetus vocifer)

Getting close and personal with many animals Deiric embarks on daily adventures along the Estuary aboard Fannas. The Spirit of St. Lucia. What we call fun in the sun is what he calls work. His office is the deck and he captains the vessel along the water ways past the mangroves, reeds and marsh hibiscus along the banks of The Estuary.

In this photo a Fish Eagle is feasting on a Cormorant else where in Europe they are also called a Shag.

African Fish Eagle
The African Fish Eagle (Haliaeetus vocifer)^[2] or – to distinguish it from the true fish eagles (Ichthyophaga), the African Sea Eagle – is a large species of eagle that is found throughout sub-Saharan Africa wherever large bodies of open water occur that have an abundant food supply. As a result of its large range, it is known in many languages.^[3] Examples of names include Visarend in Afrikaans and Aigle Pêcheur in French.^[4] It is the national bird of Zimbabwe and Zambia.

The African Fish Eagle is a species placed in the genus Haliaeetus (sea eagles) which gets both its common and scientific names from the distinctive appearance of the adult's head. The African Fish Eagle's closest relative appears to be the critically endangered Madagascar Fish Eagle (H. vociferoides). Like all sea eagle species pairs, this one consists of a white-headed species (the African Fish Eagle) and a tan-headed one. These are an ancient lineage of sea eagles, and as such have dark talons, beaks, and eyes.^[5] Both species have at least partially white tails even as juveniles. The scientific name is derived from Haliaeetus, New Latin for "sea eagle" (from the Ancient Greek haliaetos), and vocifer is derived from its original genus name, so named by the French naturalist Francois Levaillant, who called it 'the vociferous one'.^[6]

The African Fish Eagle is a large bird, and the female, at 3.2-3.6 kg (7-8 lbs) is larger than the male, at 2-2.5 kg (4.4-5.5 lbs). This is typical of sexual dimorphism in birds of prey. Males usually have a wingspan of about 2 m (6 feet), while females have wingspans of 2.4 m (8 feet). The body length is 63–75 cm (25–30 in). The adult is very distinctive in appearance with a mostly brown body and large, powerful, black wings. The head, breast, and tail of African Fish Eagles are snow white, with the exception of the featherless face, which is yellow. The eyes are dark brown in colour. The hook-shaped beak, ideal for a carnivorous lifestyle, is yellow with a black tip. The plumage of the juvenile is brown in colour, and the eyes are paler compared to the adult. The feet have rough soles and are equipped with powerful talons in order to enable the eagle to grasp slippery aquatic prey. While this species mainly subsists on fish, it is opportunistic and may take a wider variety of prey such as waterbirds. Its distinctive cry is, for many, evocative of the spirit or essence of Africa.^[7]^[8]^[9] The call, shriller when uttered by males, is a weee-ah, hyo-hyo or a heee-ah, heeah-heeah.^[10]

For Bookings on Fannas:
081 342 7371

Deiric on Facebook

Ndiza Lodge & Self Catering Accommodation

You will find Ndiza Lodge & Cabanas nestled onto the verge of the Wetlands. With easy access to the restaurants, supermarkets and rest of the town yet private and quiet. This ideal location makes Ndiza your best choice for exclusive accommodation. Lovely views from our deck of the Indian Ocean and famous Lake St. Lucia. Children under 12 – half price and children under 5 yrs stay free. Secure parking on our premises. The Lodge with a lovely wooden deck offers beautiful views over the Ocean and part of Famous Lake St. Lucia. (From here Ndiza’s guests are privileged to be the first to see the whales on their way to the warm Mozambican’s waters.)

Contact: http://www.ndizalodge.co.za/
Amanda de Gaspary
083 442 1896
Email: info@ndizastlucia.co.za

Hippo viewing with Deirick

2011-08-16T12:02:00.001+02:00

What have you planned for this weekend. I strongly recommend for families to take a mid month break to St. Lucia and embark on a lovely Estuary Cruise with Deirick on Fannas, The Spirit of St. Lucia. Do not delay book now and we can sort accommodation for children under 12 for half price and children under the age of 5 for free. Boat trips are 2 hours and we can sort bookings for you including a game drive on the Eastern Shores or The Big5 iMfolozi Game Reserve.
081 342 7371

Ndiza Lodge and Self Catering Cabanas St. Lucia - Ndiza Self ...
www.ndizalodge.co.za/ - Cached

You will find Ndiza Lodge and Self Catering Cabanas nestled on the verge of the wetlands. Self Catering Accommodation. St. Lucia Wetlands iSimangaliso.

Deep Sea fishing going green?

2011-08-15T10:22:00.001+02:00

The iSimangaliso Wetlands Park Authority has dealt another blow to the economy of St Lucia and surrounding areas. The fishing village turn "green" on 15 December 1999 has been struggling to survive and to feed impoverished neighbors as far as Mpokonoyni Noth of Mtubatuba. The legislation the World Heritage act brought to them has increased the power of management to side line current operations and consessionise everything. The newest legal addition in the demise of local entrepreneurs is the restriction on Charter Operations. Four legal Charter Fishing operations has been granted the right to catch only game fish from boat based fishing operations from St. Lucia's surf launching beaches.

These legal operators are;

Advantage (St Lucia Tours and Charters)035 5901259
Maverick(Johantjie) N/a on website or google???
Wave Dancer(Barend) 084 628 1162
Asterix(Maans) 035 590 1229 / 082 463 5864

Veteran Fisherman, Johan Potgieter with Harlekyn Charters, has now relocated to Richards Bay. His number is still 082 924 7842. He now operates from the safety of Richards Bay harbor and has a bigger client base to deal with. Accommodation for Richards Bay is affordable and people can contact me, Petrus Viviers, 081 342 7371 for bookings.

The iMfolozi Mouth was opened mechanically (my personal opinion was to prevent St. Lucia Estuary mouth to open naturally) and this lead to fishing along the beaches to increase. Crocodiles are still very active in the St. Lucia mouth area and anglers that do endeavor the beach walk or cycle ride to First Rocks will enjoy great success. Even fishing spots like the slides along the St. Lucia Beach will produce some nice catches.

Weekend Weather will look like this;

Thursday 8/18/2011

Partly sunny and remaining cool with a shower in places

High Temperature: 17°C

RealFeel: 18°C

Friday 8/19/2011

Pleasant with plenty of sunshine; breezy in the afternoon

High Temperature: 22°C

RealFeel: 21°C

Saturday 8/20/2011

Intervals of clouds and sunshine with a shower in the area; breezy in the afternoon

High Temperature: 21°C

RealFeel: 21°C

Sunday 8/21/2011

Sunny and pleasant

High Temperature: 24°C

RealFeel: 23°C

With current South Easterly blowing one can not expect to fish rock and surf with out some medium tackle and six ounce grapnel sinker. From Thursday the current would have changed and fishing over the weekend would be great around iMfolozi mouth, just North in a gully almost in front of St. Lucia Estuary's closed mouth. Bait would be preferably be something alive. Wave Garick or Silver Salago. All this are caught on small rod and reel with small hook baited with sardine or squid. Since it is neap tide high and low is not really a concern so the Early bird will catch the worm so to speak. Be there before six and fish until ten. Treat your family the rest of the day and a sunset Estuary Cruise.

www.stlucia.org.za
www.ndizalodge.co.za
www.forfrica.co.za

by Petrus Viviers

WHALE WATCHING SPECIAL FOR SEPTEMBER

2011-08-11T13:41:00.001+02:00

Hope you’re all doing well, and all beds are full!!!

Throughout September we will again offer 50% OFF a morning(no sunset half price offers) HIPPO/CROC tour aboard ADVANTAGE CRUISER once the passengers have been out WHALE WATCHING onboard ADVANTAGE CHARTER –

Just some feedback for the season so far – we’ve had tremendous sightings – even more spectacular than last year – people enjoy the fact that we offer the money-back-guarantee if they don’t see whales.

We also have huge smiles and loads of happy clientele getting off the ADVANTAGE CHARTER boat, coming back to the office and giving very positive feedback on the knowledge and information they got from the guides and how they were treated – they also just love the trip on the truck to the beach.

These people will most definitely go and tell more friends and family, and we can be assured to have return visitors to our pretty town.

Unfortunately as you know some tours had to be cancelled due to rough seas – but yes, although the clients don’t always understand and some have wee attitudes because we cancel, we do have a safety-first attitude – that is what ADVANTAGE is renowned for – and we won’t harm our reputation – ((( I think someone must start doing whale-dances for extra money if tours are cancelled(JOKE))))

We will always try and accommodate our clients first IN St Lucia whilst they are HERE, but please remember in the past the closest next legal permit holder where we could refer people to if the weather was bad was in Cape Town – now at least we also have the legal permit in Durban and can refer clients that way if indeed they are travelling south and not north.

As for our HIPPO/CROC boat cruise trips – GOOD AS ALWAYS – and the clients particularly enjoy the ADVANTAGE CRUISER boat as our guides do the FULL 2HOUR tour – we do not dock before the time or cut the trips short – they get their monies worth aboard ADVANTAGE CRUISER– onboard they can buy tea/coffee/hot chocolate and then the bar is always fully stocked and fully licensed, and the ‘’tuck shops’’ sells all kinds of goodies onboard. They’ve got more than ample walking space onboard for the best photographic opportunities, we ourselves are keen photographers and will go out of our way to give your client good photo opportunity!

If you have anybody wanting to go DEEPSEA FISHING you can also phone us, we do those trips as well – R700-00p.p – they must only have their own fishing licence, we supply all bait and tackle – and they need to bring own lunch.

Just AGAIN – THANK Y.O.U for your support!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! Thank you for understanding if we have to cancel whale trips((((we hate cancelling trips, cause obviously we lose money and you lose commission, but……..joys of the ocean))))

Please always keep in touch if there is any problems or issues or anything else whatsoever – we are here to assist and will gladly do so.

………….WHALE HUGS and DOLPHIN KISSES………..

Bestest Regards for now

Riëtte

ADVANTAGE TOURS IS PROUD TO ANNOUNCE THAT THEY ARE ALSO NOW THE LEGAL boat-based-whale-watching PERMIT HOLDER IN DURBAN as well as in ST LUCIA - DURBAN details below

BEST REGARDS
Riëtte Bennett for
St.Lucia Tours & Charters t/a Advantage Cruiser CC
e-mail for St Lucia : advantage@zululink.co.za

e-mail for Durban: whalewatchingdurban@gmail.com

web : www.advantagetours.co.za - NEW UPDATED VERSION - EXCITING - PLEASE CHECK IT OUT!!!!

SEE OUR FACEBOOK SITES - ADVANTAGE TOURS SOUTH AFRICA

Tel : +27 ( 035 ) 5901259

Fax : +27 ( 035 ) 5901053

Cell for St Lucia : 083 487 2762

Cell for Durban : 082 329 9890

Box 151, St Lucia,South Africa 3936
1 McKenzie Street, St Lucia 3936, ** corner of St Lucia Supermarket ,the very first building and the very first information office as you enter the town of St Lucia after crossing the bridge , at the traffic circle find parking immediately on the right (next to PEP stores) **

our GPS co-ordinates are :: S28 22. 335 E32 24. 773 ....St Lucia Village South Africa - ST LUCIA - PLACE OF WONDER!

Click here to view Advantage's New Video on YouTube!

CONTACT US FOR THE FOLLOWING :

WHALE WATCHING ( the legal permit holder currently in St Lucia and Durban ), HIPPO & CROC BOAT CRUISES ( aboard the luxurious ADVANTAGE CRUISER ), DEEPSEA BIG GAME FISHING, iMFOLOZi /HLUHLUWE GAME RESERVE TRIPS, CAPE VIDAL SNORKEL SAFARIS, TURTLE TOURS, OCEAN ADVENTURE for DOLPHINS and other MARINE MAMMALS , HORSE RIDING , KAYAKING , with experienced skipper/guides Danie, Bien and Berno and lady skipper/guides Riëtte Bennett and Natasha.

Another day in the life of - Deiric Welsh (Tourguide, Singer and song writer)

2011-08-07T18:57:00.001+02:00

When life trough's you a lemon make lemonade they say. Well we cannot all do what we want but sure we can share some of the moments with people that have the opportunity to do just that.

This is one of the moments that Deiric has to get up for in the mornings. He has the opportunity to sing at gigs in pubs and venues all along the coast, but he chooses the life of a tour guide on St Lucia Estuary aboard Fanna's (also known as the spirit of St. Lucia) a shallow draft vessel that is very economical to run and fun to entertain groups and functions on.

Lazy Buffalo is not the only wild life along the banks but surely one to mention. They are on of the five most dangerous animals to hunt in Africa and in an area long forgotten when a one shot kill was only achievable from less than fifty paces, this was a trophy that did separate the men from the boys.

Nitrous powered rifles and scope sights has increased this safe distance a little more and one only needs to be a good shot with a hefty bank account to achieve this now days. Thanks to comercial hunting we can today apretiate the profits in the forms of Game Farms or Game Reserves. A trophy Bull demands a large open space and that alone is expensive. Before eco Tourist where a viable alternative the sports hunter paid many years for the up keep of these magnificent animals.

Corcodilus Noliticus. or better known as the Nile Crocodile has adapted to salt water conditions by secreting the access salt through a gland at the bottom of their tongs. They still need fresh water and the low lying wetlands provide them just that. They migrate between the sweet water of the wetlands and the marine estuary as they feel fit.

Main food source is fish, but will take anything that comes to close to the banks or dare to swim into their hunting territory. The banks are used by breeding females but invading alien plants tend to interfere with the breeding temperature of the nests.

Africa Fish Eagle is monogamous and breeding pairs need a larger hunting area. Tour Guides used to feed them in the past, but this upset the natural nesting arrangement and the authority stepped in with some hefty fines. It always made for nice pictures when they sweep in to get the fish, but now days these type of action shots are rare and only the lucky few will get it on camera. Others will live with the memory of being able to see it as it happens.

Giant King Fisher

Goliath Heron.

Another sunset over The Wetlands Park
St Lucia Estuary - iSimangaliso Wetlands Park

To Join Deiric on a boat cruise

Call Petrus Viviers
081 342 7371
petrus@forafrica.co.za

St Lucia Ladies on Wellness - 08 August 2011

2011-08-04T15:42:00.000+02:00

St Lucia ladies are not sitting back and waiting for better days to come. This community is vibrant and full of excitement. Their recent funds raising event for CANSA, St. Lucia by Night, was a huge success. To obtain more information about Wellness, A Choice for life ladies can contact: Susan Combrink on 082 940 7194. Keep is posted ladies ... it seems St. Lucia Estuary, the small village in the heart of iSimangaliso Wetlands Park is going places ...

WWWHALE WWWATCHING KWAZULU NATAL

2011-07-27T16:08:00.001+02:00

Dear All

PLEASE don’t let the weather put you off from booking your whale trip with us as soon as possible, as the moment the weather turns good again and seas calm seats are going to be limited and demand great!

We have had magnificent sightings of HUMPBACK WHALES on each trip that we could go out.

On the 11^th of July we saw the first HUMPBACK WHALE newborn calf for the season and lots of oeh’s and ah’s from the satisfied clientele onboard.

ADVANTAGE CHARTER vessels boasts enthusiastic skipper/guides Bien,Berno,Danie, Francois and Christiaan who has a treasure house full of knowledge about these awesome mammals – and you are sure to have a memory in those hours at sea that will last a lifetime.

In 2009 we had a Dutch couple that visited South Africa, Henk and Jorijke Koelewijn – they also did the WHALE WATCHING trip with ADVANTAGE CHARTER in ST LUCIA – as well as a visit to the Game Reserve, the HIPPO/CROC tour – the ZULU village ect - …………to make a long story short………..

Straight after their visit to St Lucia, they were heading back to Durban airport when they were in a very bad car accident.

This accident saw them for many weeks in Empangeni Hospital where they were treated for multiple injuries, after weeks of intensive care they returned to Holland, and after arriving back in Holland Jorijke’s health deteriorated and both her legs had to be amputated. Mentioning that they are a young couple in their twenties, this was surely an enormous shock.

We were extremely excited two weeks ago to see Henk and Jorijke BACK in ST LUCIA SOUTH AFRICA – bringing her parents to come and enjoy what they enjoyed two years ago before the tragic accident, and they again went WHALE WATCHING.

Jorijke is now in a wheelchair and with care we carried her onto the boat and made her sit safely onboard - ANOTHER amazing activity that they will never forget –

HUMPBACK whales abound along this coastline this time of the year, and we see loads of dolphin – with ADVANTAGE CHARTER being a legal permit holder since 1998 you are assured to enjoy the gentle giants of the ocean from as close as 50m’s!

ADVANTAGE CHARTER – ST LUCIA and DURBAN – www.advantagetours.co.za

ADVANTAGE TOURS IS PROUD TO ANNOUNCE THAT THEY ARE ALSO NOW THE LEGAL boat-based-whale-watching PERMIT HOLDER IN DURBAN as well as in ST LUCIA - DURBAN details below

BEST REGARDS
Riëtte Bennett for
St.Lucia Tours & Charters t/a Advantage Cruiser CC
e-mail for St Lucia : advantage@zululink.co.za

e-mail for Durban: whalewatchingdurban@gmail.com

web : www.advantagetours.co.za - NEW UPDATED VERSION - EXCITING - PLEASE CHECK IT OUT!!!!

SEE OUR FACEBOOK SITES - ADVANTAGE TOURS SOUTH AFRICA

Tel : +27 ( 035 ) 5901259

Fax : +27 ( 035 ) 5901053

Cell for St Lucia : 083 487 2762

Cell for Durban : 082 329 9890

our GPS co-ordinates are :: S28 22. 335 E32 24. 773 ....St Lucia Village South Africa - ST LUCIA - PLACE OF WONDER!

Click here to view Advantage's New Video on YouTube!

CONTACT US FOR THE FOLLOWING :

Aerial photo St Lucia

2011-07-27T08:05:00.001+02:00

St. Lucia.

aerial photo

Kyk na die invloei van die rivier. Hulle het dit verander deur die rivier se vloei metn bulldozer toe te stoot. Voorheen was die rivier se vloei in die meer in van lings na regs agter die sand bank. Nou vloei miljoene liters vars water van die rivier uit in die see.

The flow of the Umfolozi river was change so it cannot flow into the St. Lucia estuary. The river was behind the sand dune before they change the flow of the river. Now millions of liters fresh water is running into the sea. See photo.

Another question that came through is:

Fencing of entire park

230km / R120m = R521739.13 per/km

Where do the people come up with these figures .... ???

Alien clearing

2011-07-27T08:02:00.000+02:00

Various articles appear about the way forward for St. Lucia Wetlands Park now called the iSimangaliso Wetlands Park, but although the data is impressive it is very sketchy and no one really understands the true value of the rand. It would be nice to clarify this matter so that the visual impact of the impressive figures can have a true ring to it.

Rehabilitation and alien clearing. Isimangaliso + ( St. Lucia ? )

Total R 70112249.64 Spend.

3423 Contracts = R20482. 69 Is it per one year total or for one month. = R70112449.64?

35464 people = R19767. 00 per person employed is it for one year total or for

one month. = R70112449.64?

The St Lucia are anxiously awaiting the mouth to open

2011-07-17T16:07:00.000+02:00

The mouth and the ocean are almost connected. If this does happens it will bring great relief to man and beast.

for more info mail petrus@forafrica.co.za

thanks to Llewelyn from Dolphin Supermarket for the update and picture.

Happy Hippo Hunting? Injured Baby ....

2011-07-17T10:06:00.000+02:00

Abandoned baby,injured and alone,will see today if it survives.

Many moons ago when tourism was an infant in the post Apartheid South Africa we had many wanna be green tourist flying in from all over the world doing so called "hunting" outings shooting rolls off silver based photo frames and even moving pictures. As the result the phrase "hunting" stuck with me for many years to come.

As time progress I invoked many frown with this almost slanderous statement for hunters seems to be more educated greenies that Green Peace them selves. If not for the Big Game Hunters from around the world we would not have the way paved for so much diversity of wild life in most parts of the world as in Africa ...

To be a real "Wild" enthusiast one must understand the need for humans to integrate with the planet and not get emotional about it.So many Eco Tourist fly into Africa staying in 5 Star facilities bombarding the ozone with Carbon foot prints to outlast two life times and still call the residents of the nursery of the planet, barbaric, uncivilised and poor. As If!!

On top of this their maternal instincts kick in and they feed the monkeys and various other animals and taking control over defenceless creatures natural instinct and fore ever altering their behaviour. As in the case of this baby Hippo stumbling around the Wetlands abandoned by its mother. The first reaction is "will the authorities intervene" Yes ... sometimes when public out cry becomes to loud and the wanna bees insist on controlling nature they will step in and destroy the animal before some poor idiot adopts it and changes life on earth for ever.

by Petrus Viviers
081 342 7371

This story is my view on Nature Conservation and do not represent any Conservation Authority or Organisation what so ever. Please stop feeding the monkeys.

A Day in the life ... Tour Guide

2011-06-07T21:33:00.000+02:00

St. Lucia Lake Cruises
St. Lucia Estuary
The Elephant Coast
South Africa

Cape Vidal beach area is lovely during the winter months. Summer on these beaches are extremely hot and people are warned to stay out of the sun between 11h00 and 14h00. This is the launching site where many ski boats launch from. The shark attack that was recorded in the iSimangaliso Wetland Park happened 23 km North of this popular swimming and Snorkelling beach.

Lazy sun bathers can be seen from the launch tours in St. Lucia. These guys are basking in the winter sun, but are still on the hunt from time to time and lately some Water Buck have met there fate while crossing the bar ... ???

Some things are best left for the safety of your pool. What ever this Water Buck had planned no one will know, but Derick assure me that he safely escaped a crawling creepy submerged in the fresh water that now dominate the upper parts of the Estuary.

Flight of Th Fish Eagle ???

Tea party alla Saint Lucia style. We know that there is more ladies in this pod since the dominant male, Vincent are very protective of his "brothel" of babes.

To embark on a lazy Lake Cruise with Captain Deiric Walsh one should book through the offices of St. Lucia Safaris and asked to embark on a world famous Hippo Cruise With Deiric.

En Route to Cape Vidal

No More Demoina's ?

What ever your interest in St. Lucia, whether it is Shad Fishing or Bird Watching a Lake Cruise cannot be missed. Book now for your weekend break away. For your package deal call Petrus Viviers on 081 342 7371 or deal direct with St. Lucia Safari's

Jaenie van Aswegen

Manager


	74 McKenzie Street
	St Lucia
	KwaZulu Natal
	3936
	South Africa

	safaris@stlucia.co.za
	+27 (0)35 590 1047
	+27 (0)35 590 1084
	+27 (0)83 283 1528
	http://www.stluciasafaris.com/

iMfolozi River flowing strong

2011-04-01T13:46:00.000+02:00

Summer is drawing to a close and valuable
topsoil is lured down stream to choke up valuable sensative marine nurseries.

Petrus Viviers
0813427371
www.forafrica.co.za

St. Lucia quo vadis?

2011-03-28T12:42:00.000+02:00

Took a drive down to St Lucia with some friends to walk down memory lane. We all had our first off spring in St Lucia and the place is very dear to our heart.

Sadly over the last tow years the CEO of the iSimangaliso Wetland Park has lost his grip on infra structure and invader clearance.

As an ex resident of St Lucia and one of the people that helped before holidays to clear some of the public open space, I was also involved in the valuation of some of the property transfered to the Authority.

I was shocked to find this much deteriation in the lovely town I once called home. Public sector standing along side watching valuable tax payer investment going down the drain.

By Petrus Viviers

Curling Swirling sticky mud towards St Lucia Estuary

2011-03-10T09:01:00.000+02:00

The one reason why this water cannot be dump into the lake system is the high content of mud that the river gathers from up country as it flows down stream carrying lifeless water to un expected users down stream.

This is one of the main reasons The Department of Works used to dredge the sludge from the Estuary until the late 1990's. Also the motivation behind The funds obtained from The World Bank. When the results of this money will bring relief to a chocking eco system is any body's guess, since not much regarding the research is disclosed to the media or public.

By Petrus Viviers

The St Lucia Estuary Mouth - Dr Taylor Speaks out.

2011-03-06T11:46:00.000+02:00

The writer of the letter has been misinformed about the management activities conducted by Ezemvelo and the iSimangaliso Wetland Park Authority. The only time that the conservation authorities have "piled sand across the mouth" was in 2002. The circumstances were that the mouth of St Lucia had closed a couple of months before the wrecking of the "Jolly Rubino" ship near Cape St Lucia. We were warned by the shipping authorities that this ship was carrying extremely toxic chemicals and should this spill the ecological consequences would be disastrous. As a precaution, to prevent any possibility of these chemicals entering St Lucia, we used a bulldozer to push up a low wall of sand on the beach so that overtopping by waves would be avoided. Fortunately the contamination was avoided and over the next month or two the low sand wall was completely dispersed by the wind. Several of the local residents of St Lucia misunderstood what we were doing and continue to perpetuate the myth that we blocked the St Lucia Mouth.

In March 2007 the extreme high seas that were experienced along this coastline breached the St Lucia Mouth. It stayed open after that for six months before closing naturally, and has been closed since then.

St Lucia, like most of our protected environments is affected by what happens beyond the boundaries of the protected area. The main rivers flowing into the estuarine system nowadays carry about 25% less water than when the catchments were undeveloped. This water is lost to irrigation, transpiration losses from plantations and evaporation from farm dams. In addition the Mfolozi Floodplain was canalized and drained in the 1930s for the planting of sugar. The main canal carries the Mfolozi River and its sediments through what was a swampland that had formerly trapped much of the sediment. As a result of this alteration to the natural system, the combined St Lucia–Mfolozi Mouth closed in 1951. To counter this, the Mfolozi River was separated from St Lucia in 1952. This separation of the Mfolozi from St Lucia means that St Lucia is deprived of the Mfolozi water during times of drought. This has had a profound impact on St Lucia and there is currently a World Bank funded initiative to restore (fully or partially) the link between St Lucia and the Mfolozi River.

It must be appreciated that the management of St Lucia is complex and is based on the understanding of how the estuary functions that has been gained from 50 years of scientific research and on the advice given by some of the leading estuarine scientists in the country. St Lucia has been subjected to a very severe drought since early in 2001 and has been pushed to extreme limits during this period.

Dr Ricky Taylor

Regional Ecologist

Ezemvelo KZN Wildlife

9 February 2011

Sourced from ...

St. Lucia Wetlands Pre Holiday Prices

2011-03-04T06:14:00.002+02:00

After a vigorous unsuccessful campaign by a group/page on facebook to tarnish the romantic view many has over St. Lucia and a sunset facing main street over looking the Estuary it is clear that no man can succeed. Created by the Almighty himself and refined by mother nature over a 25 000 year period the little town on the Island like setting faces East/West. With this world famous morning glare of Rah over the House of Poseidon and creatures and critters to enhance your weary senses it is clear that every person needs rejuvenation at some point and this is it.

Iternery:
Day - 1
Arrive at your accommodation establishment (0355901033) before 15h00. Make sure your tickets for the 16h00 sunset Cruise (035 5901259) is intact and take a slow stroll down the vegetated lane towards the launching site. Many birds and squirrels will share a little time and space with you.
Embark on this almost mystical experience as the cruise leads you northwards amongst the Crocodiles and Hippo.

Have a Braai upon your return at one of the designated areas or supper at one of the restaurants.

Day - 2
Make sure you are up and at it early to embark on a epic game drive along the Vidal roads and time your snorkel just right. From two hours before low to hour after. Beware of Rah's vengeance is fierce and a factor 40+ will ease his glare. Loop back past Bangazi South and see the day light recede over the watering holes of the Wetlands. Remember the Gate locks at 19h00.

Day-3
Do not worry to set your alarm bell because the sad call off a Hornbill will cancel your deal with the Sand Man on time. Crab a cupper and muffin from Engine and head east to see father time smile upon another day as Rah starts to show his face. Most exquisite is the rays of the yellow sun pushing the shadows up the tall vegetated sand dune range guarding the pristine coast line from up high above.

Enjoy ...

by Petrus Viviers

iSimangaliso communication – Signage in iSimangaliso

2011-02-27T13:26:00.000+02:00

Many of you will have noticed that iSimangaliso is in the process of major infrastructure upgrades and improvements throughout the Park in our quest to offer a better visitor experience.

One of these developments is new signage, with iSimangaliso branding and information. Thousands of signs are being placed across the Park with various prototypes being tested in the first phase, prior to permanent placement. Amongst these are signs at the beaches in St Lucia. We have received several queries from concerned members of the public pertaining to these, as one of the indications is that no dogs are permitted.

This is not an early April Fool's joke but rather the result of an overzealous contractor. Please be assured that there has been no change in the status of dogs on St Lucia beaches, where they are still welcome provided they are under the owner's control.

We thank you for the feedback that brought this oversight to our attention. We trust you will enjoying making use of the improved Park facilities which will include upgrading of Jabula and Main Beach ablution blocks.

Andrew Zaloumis

Public Enemy No1 - Wetland Park Authority

2011-02-27T08:12:00.000+02:00

iSimangaliso Wetlands Park Authority is clearly no friends of visiting and residential public. As they are enforcing a white paper devised in 1996 and implementing it with out any public participation. With Acer Africa as their appointed EIA and IMP agents one can never or with great difficulty find the newest information. The EIA of 2001 for the usage zones that included the implementation of beach driving is not regularly available. If so it is at great cost to the person who wishes to obtain it.

The latest IMP available on ACER Africa's web site has the future public participation dates as.

Future Meetings/Public Open Days

January 2009 (25 KB)

Laugh Out Loud .... This alone is a breach of the

1. World Heritage Convention Act 49 of 1999

The World Heritage Convention Act adopts the World Heritage Convention into South African law. South Africa is one of a few countries to have done this; an action applauded by UNESCO's World Heritage Centre.

Which demands public participation and full management disclosure. Also is newly introduced concessions (not excising ones) prohibited on products or usage rights experienced or exercise before the proclamation of this act. No rights that was enjoyed by the people in or around a newly proclaimed site should be taken away from them or any access to these areas deprived from them. Since The South African Government was the signatory to this legislative agreement between UNESCO and South Africa the iSimangaliso Wetland Park Authority has not the loco standing to make these decisions.

This is legislative procedures that has to be brought in front of The World Heritage Council. At which stage the public influenced by this decision should be addressed. If the full extend of The World Heritage act is enforced the current IMP will not hold up and there is one of two options. Revoke The World Heritage Status or Replace the management. I don not, from experience, see the latter to happen so my money is that the Authority is backing the former since they have already received the World Bank Grant that they so wished for.

by Petrus Viviers

083 584 7473

iSimangaliso Disicions that sucks Big Time...!!!

2011-02-27T07:10:00.000+02:00

The iSimangaliso Wetlands Park authority is under public scrutiny over its loco standing and management decisions. It is clear that they are very controversial in their draconian leadership and scientific applications of human interference and greater human impact control. How ever people over look man made mistakes and hammer on the negative natural influences that have been haunting St. Lucia Estuary and The Greater Wetland Park for centuries.

One huge environmental blunder changing the World Heritage Site and its specie list for ever was the scuttling of the two massive barges that was beached just North of Cape Vidal in 2008. The question remains if a scientific entity like ORI was consulted and a proper EIA was devised and followed. The reason why the impact of this blunder is so severe is the fact that it was never disclosed if the Ballast water was drained or sanitized before the barges and their foreign content was let loose on a very fragile World Heritage Site.

Since artificial reeves are known to carry a higher than normal capacity of marine life this reeves has also contributed to the increase of marine life.

"A new species of blenny was found and is currently being described by specialists of the Smithsonian Institute in the USA. Results of this trip and future annual trips will allow us to document temporal changes in the artificial reef community. Moreover, researchers from the Department of Environment Affairs’ Marine and Coastal Management will get involved using various sonar tagging technologies to investigate the movement patterns of fish from and to the barges." read more ...

Wikepedia: The common name blenny is ambiguous at best, as it has been applied to several families of perciform marine, brackish and some freshwater fishes all sharing similar morphology (shape) and behaviour. There are six families considered "true blennies", all grouped together under the suborder Blennioidei; its members are referred to as blennioids. There are approximately 833 species in 130 genera within the suborder.

Since it is not clear and very little disclosure is offered to which sub specie was introduced to to this fragile eco system we cannot comment on the impact it might have over a long term period. By way of deduction we can valuate that this is detrimental to the environment by the strict monitoring imposed on this artificial reef.

by Petrus Vivviers

083 584 7473 -

under threat from "historic and current manipulation"

2011-02-26T23:45:00.000+02:00

Article from the Citizen 2009/02/26.

RICHARD DAVIES

PORT ELIZABETH - World renowned Lake St Lucia, home to hundreds of crocodiles and hippopotami, is seriously ill, according to a leading scientist.

The diagnosis is acute dehydration.

"The patient is in intensive care," Professor Alan Whitfield of the SA Institute for Aquatic Biodiversity told delegates at the Implementing Environmental Water Allocations (IEWA) conference in Port Elizabeth on Thursday.

He said the estuary of which Lake St Lucia is a part, was under threat from "historic and current manipulation" of its freshwater supply. The solution was to allow the system's main river, the Umfolozi, to once again flow into the lake.

"Lake St Lucia is not only a World Heritage Site; it's also a Ramsar site of international importance. It has been impacted since the 1930s and things are coming to a head in that system now."

These impacts included the removal of wetlands that had once served to filter the water pouring into the estuary down the Umfolozi; and, a decision -- reversed in March last year -- to divert the river away from the lake.

"A total of 920 million cubic metres Šin-flowÆ has been removed from Lake St Lucia, and in order to fix the situation it needs to be returned."

Salinity in the lake under "natural flows" was about 60 parts per thousand, but -- with the diversion of the fresh water from the Umfolozi -- was now well above 100 parts per thousand, almost three times the concentration of sea water.

"The system is going through extremes it's never experienced before," Whitfield warned.

At one time the Umfolozi River had regularly scoured the lake, but a decision had been taken some years ago to divert the river southwards and open a separate mouth.

This had been done to stop the river depositing tons of sediment in the lake. Depriving the system of its single-largest freshwater supply, however, coupled with a decrease in other inflows due to a prolonged drought in the region, caused the lake to shrink and salinity levels to soar.

"This is a World Heritage Site, and South Africa has a responsibility which we're not fulfilling under the current circumstances."

The area was declared a World Heritage Site in 1999.

Whitfield said the situation was "not all doom and gloom", and there was a solution.

"The Umfolozi River is the key to the future of Lake St Lucia, the absolute key, and we've known that for a long time, but we've done absolutely nothing about it," he said.

Source: Shaka Barker Tours

Notes by Editor

What is very important here is this ... "He said the estuary of which Lake St Lucia is a part, was under threat from "historic and current manipulation" of its freshwater supply."

This is a situation created by the impact of man since 1938 when sugar Cane Farming started in the iMfolozi Flats. The counter measures to this was the channel system that diluted the iMfolozi Flats and rerouted the water through a serious of wetlands and channels into the St. Lucia Estuary behind Honey Moon Bend. During 1970 to 1980 when the Estuary Mouth was hard walled and this channels was maintained the oyster bed at honeymoon bend was alive and the Salmon Hole in front of Honey Moon Bend's Islands was over 20 m deep with caves where Brindle bass could hide in.

St. Lucia is a nursery to many small fishes and many species come here to complete their breeding cycle. To understand the working of the system one needs to look at the rain catchment area from The iMfolozi River mouth to Vryheid and all the way past Nomgoma to Pongola. This is the saturation area of the Lake system. Sugar cane developments on the Mkuzi flats as stripped the catchment area of thousands of indigenous forest and wetlands areas. Poor soil erosion control in Vryheid makes it impossible to direct the water from the iMfolozi currently into he system.

This does not mean that St. Lucia is closed for holiday makers ... to the contrary ... The current status of the Wetlands is such that Crowned Cranes has moved in. Hippo population has increased. Crocodiles has doing well in the fresher conditions of the closed system. ... Sic of the one Half a dozen of the other ...

The pass 8 years was the most sever drought the area has experienced ...

No Signs St. Lucia Wetlands just a Mistake?

2011-02-26T02:35:00.000+02:00

Residents of St. Lucia Estuary, iSimangaliso Wetlands Park, woke op Friday Morning (25/02/2011) to a serious of forbidden signs prohibiting them to do a range of things. These signs was erected in the wake of serious clashes between tendering community of St. Lucia, Khula Village and surroundings with The Park Authority.

Various products, Lake Cruises, Deep Sea Fishing and Cycle Tours to mention a few are restricted under the custodianship of The iSimangaliso Wetland Park Authority. This has been promulgated by the CEO since the existence of The LSDI in 1996. How many of the Acer Africa EIA and the original White Paper from 1996 is worked into the Integrated Management Plan is still unclear.

Locals are in fear of total collapse of the trade and industry as The Park Authority are leaning towards a Eco Tourist Economy controlled by various of restricted access including vehicle control 8 km from Cape Vidal Beach. An official statement released by The Park Authority claims these signs was erected in fault by the contractor.

So mistake, miss understanding or miss communication the serious of signs has been removed and it seems the stand off between the community and The Authority is looming and Beach Driving, Sediment Control and Human Impact Management is not on the Table yet for discussion by The Authority. Although this was worked into the original Acer Africa EIA of 1999/2000.

With Easter Holidays around the corner and establishment, product owners and retail outlets hopping to make up the losses of a two month slow period it is unclear when the fishing restriction will be enforced while the ocean marine and estuary life is deprived another year of breeding and nurseries in the closed Estuary system. Pushing 8 years of bio diversity lost due to a continues drought.

There is no indication whether the Trademarking and owner ship transfer of the land is in proses or successfully concluded.

by: Petrus Viviers (various sources)

Stake Holders Meeting Gone Wrong - iSimangaliso Wetlands Park

2011-02-25T09:13:00.001+02:00

Frustration and confusion sets in when a language dominates theconversation. This happened when iSimangaliso Wetlands Park Authorityadvertised a serious of concessions available on Tender. The cumbersomelengthy Tender Documents are all in English and the Stake Holdersrepresent mainly three of the twelve South African Languages. ThisTender proses was introduces by KZN Ezemvello about 13 years ago when tourism boomed in the area. Since then the Park became a World HeritageSite in 1999 and control was given to the LSDI with KZN demoted tocleaning and law enforcement operations. How to split the loot resulted into many access restriction that was enforced on the public.

iSimangaliso Wetland Park Authority scheduled a meeting with the stake holders to clarify questions and explaining the proses. Since this proses is not their brain child they still frustratingly enough have to entertain it. The Tender proses is a welcoming relief to many disadvantage communities for this will be the first time they can actively take part in the wealth that is locked up in visiting tourist. To ensure continuity of a service some trouble some Anexures has been added to this lengthy document that does not bode well with some existing tour operators. Since the meeting was advertised to be held in Zulu and translations was offered in English some people where furious to find that the meeting was held in English and translated into Zulu.

Some people that did not understand the language or the dispute there off left quietly. Some people that did have control over both the English and Zulu language stayed. Some people are furious about the proses and the content of the documents and made some very vocal threats as they left. The latter lead to an infusion into emotion running high from cultural barriers and language manipulation. The fact is the game is on the rules are laid out. If you want to play it ... the decision is still vested in the stake holders.

by Petrus Viviers

Gripen and Hawk jet fighters to participate in the annual Exercise

2011-02-17T08:49:00.000+02:00

Gripen and Hawk jet fighters to participate in the annual Exercise Young Eagle Open Day, 18 Feb

16 Feb 2011

The Exercise Young Eagle Open Day will be held on Friday, 18 February 2011 in Bloemfontein. Exercise Young Eagle, the annual SA Army exercise aimed at training and exercising the SA Army’s Airborne and Air Assault forces to enhance airborne capability and combat readiness, is being conducted at the De Brug training area in Bloemfontein and will feature Gripen and Hawk jet fighters including 18 helicopters.

The Open Day will consist of briefings, static displays/exhibitions, pathfinder infiltration, airborne and air assault demonstration, free fall demonstration and will be concluded with a media conference hosted by the Chief of the SA Army, Lieutenant General Solly Shoke.

Travel arrangements

Reporting time at Air Force Base Waterkloof at 06h00 on Friday, 18 February 2011.
Estimated time of departure from Air Force Base Waterkloof: 07h00.
Estimated time of arrival at Air Force Base Bloemspruit: 08h30.
Depart from Air Force Base Bloemspruit at approximately 12h45
Estimated time of arrival at Air Force Base Waterkloof: 14h30

Enquiries:
Major Danny Wagenaar
Tel: 012 355 6388
Cell: 082 805 1319

Issued by: Department of Defence
16 Feb 2011

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2011-02-16T21:41:00.000+02:00

Hi Blog StLuciaWetlands ,

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Media Release - Nedbank opened the first wind powered branch in Du Noon, Western Cape

2011-02-08T19:27:00.000+02:00

Nedbank opened the first wind powered branch in Du Noon, Western Cape

8 February 2011

On Saturday, 5 February 2011- Nedbank opened the country’s first wind powered branch in the Western Cape town of Du Noon making it the first bank branch in the country to derive its energy from sustainable energy source. The new branch will be powered by wind turbines installed by Eveready Kestrel Wind Turbines that will generate all the electrical power that the branch will need to operate. The branch will therefore not derive electricity from the national grid. Instead the existing power grid will only act as back-up energy source on the rare occasions when there is no wind energy to power the branch.

The opening of the Nedbank Du Noon Branch forms another example of the bank’s commitment to ensure that all South Africans have access to banking. The launch also ensures that Nedbank honours its promise to make financial services accessible, convenient, affordable and sustainable.

Branch banking remains a convenient channel for clients who prefer face to face interaction and consultation that only branches can provide. This has resulted in an increased growth and demand for a full bouquet of banking solutions in one branch. Last year, Nedbank opened five new branches in Western Cape region alone. According to Dave Schwegmann, Managing Executive of the Branch Network, the lack of access to traditional banking services can restrain development, and DuNoon branch was opened to support the residents, business community and residents from surrounding areas to increase commercial growth and create more jobs.

“As a result of the growth of alternative banking channels, branch banking now has to transform, do things differently and innovate. Innovation and excellent client service underpinned by value add products and sustainability have become the bank’s principal source of differentiation and competitive advantage. Nedbank is taking an analytical approach to optimize its branch network, and DuNoon branch is an example of that approach” says Schwegmann.

Among the many other projects that Nedbank has in the Western Cape Region. Nedbank erected a billiard that combined solar panels with a wind turbine to provide electricity to the youth and family development centre in Athlone.

There is also a schools savings literacy program that Nedbank ran in 29 primary schools as a pilot in the area of Mitchells Plain area last year. The program is scheduled to expand further into 11 more schools during the first term of 2011. The aim of the program is to give primary school children, from grade 1 to grade 7 an introduction to the principles of saving and the tools to successfully do so. Nedbank in partnership with The Sports Trust also donated soccer kits to 15 schools around Western Cape, during the Soccer World Cup.

As part of Nedbank’s philosophy of providing its clients with much more than just banking, the new generation of Nedbank branches have been designed to be more client-centric, creating a banking environment that is friendly inside and outside - reflecting the bank’s brand promise to deliver value and help enable clients make things happen in accordance with their needs.

“We are very excited about this new location and confident that clients will experience a change that is inspiring the moment they enter a branch, as they are met with friendly staff who are ready to provide a positive and consistent client experience,” concludes Schwegmann.

..............................................................Ends...........................................................................

Nedbank is an Authorised Financial Services and Credit Provider.

For more information contact:

Tamara Matsoyiyane

Nedbank Group Communications

Direct: +27 11 295 5948
Mobile: +27 82 423 6825

Email: tamaram@nedbank.co.za

********************
Nedbank Limited Reg No 1951/000009/06. The following link displays
the names of the Nedbank Board of Directors and Company Secretary.
[ http://www.nedbank.co.za/terms/DirectorsNedbank.htm ]
This email is confidential and is intended for the addressee only.
The following link will take you to Nedbank's legal notice.
[ http://www.nedbank.co.za/terms/EmailDisclaimer.htm ]
********************

IMfolozi current conditions

2010-11-27T23:38:00.000+02:00

As the flow to the ocean is declining clouds are forming over the ocean. At this rate it seems that the anual allocation of mother natures contribution will waste a way to the ocean.

Very little rain is reported in the catchment area that feed the St. Lucia Lake system and it looks like the wetlands might be able to experience a green drought??? Current conditions is very confusing.

by Petrus Viviers

FW: Eskom Outages Notification

2010-11-22T12:35:00.000+02:00

-----Original Message-----
From: info
Sent: 22/11/2010 11:52:16 am
Subject: Eskom Outages Notification

Dear St Lucia Residents,

Kindly note that Eskom has the following electricity outages planned for St Lucia, which may not happen due to rainy weather or any other reason:

22 November 2010 Out from 23 pm to midnight Ref 42333037

23 November 2010 Out from 10am to 2pm Ref 41736163

25 November 2010 Out from 10am to 2pm Ref 41735466

30 November 2010 Out from 7am to 6pm Ref 4304014315

2 December 2010 Out from 7am top 6pm Ref 42231581

You are welcome to phone 08600 37566 customer service centre.

Imelda Du Plessis
Manager - St Lucia Wilds
Self-Catering Holiday Accommodation
Tel/Fax: 035 590 1033 www.stluciawilds.co.za www.stluciawilds.co.za/blog

PS: Big Birding Day - 27 November 2010

Imfolozi current conditions

2010-11-11T06:04:00.000+02:00

This photo was taken early Yesturday morning by 16h00 the river was so high in flood I could not cross back over the same low water brige. This type of rain fall will surely have a impact on the long draging dry spell of the past couple of years.

Since it was raining to much by the time I left St Lucia I did not take a photo of the Estuary mouth, but the change in the sediment between mouth and see was not much.

St Lucia Estuary Mouth Current Conditions

2010-11-09T21:07:00.000+02:00

As I took this photo it just started to rain again. It is good news for the wetlands and obviously the town since the holiday season is about to start. We can expect a great Shad run early December and excelent weather over Christmas.

From the sixteenth December people visiting Cape Vidal will have to be up early for only a certain amount of cars are allowed to enter into the park and over this period the limmit is reach soon.

Sadly I cannot report an open mouth in the near future since the sediment between the mouth and the ocean still covers a vast distance but this distance have been reduced a lot. The next two days will play a vital role in the amount of sediment movement.

Only time will tell if we are about to have a breach this year or the next change of season in March next year.

Fishing should be good by Saturday but changing conditions makes predictions very difficult at this time, but I would predict good fishing South of Cape Vidal towards the light house dispite weather conditions for this weekend.

Imfolozi River will be flowing and preveiling wind direction will push the dirty water Northwards towards First Rocks and The Slides.

Tight Lines ...

Imfolozi River current condition

2010-11-09T09:01:00.000+02:00

Never stopped flowing since it came in flood. Still muddy and it is all enroute to the ocean at St. Lucia Estuary where it will be deposited on the beaches of The iSimangaliso Wetlands Park.

With all the wtelands systems on the way planed over by Sugar Cane the St Lucia Estuary has no defence against all this sediment. For this reason this water is not channeld into the St Lucia Lake Sytem and are millions of critters suffering due to a water shortage in the Lake.

Hope some good comes from the GEF money that was allocated to The Isimangaliso Wetlands Park.

St. Lucia Local Kayak Fishing Success Story

2010-11-02T06:46:00.001+02:00

Hi Lawrence,

Dankie vir die Lekker kayak surf trials

A friend and I are planning a kayak trip down part of the Mozambican coast. Until we met up with Lawrence from St Lucia Kayak Fishing neither one of us had ever been on a kayak, never mind been out on the ocean. Our surf trials lasted two days. On the first morning, Lawrence briefed us on kayaks, their construction and what we should look out for before purchasing a kayak. Once at the beach, he gave us a quick rundown on the day's surf conditions, and pointed out several structures in the water based on what the surf was doing. A safety briefing followed, including what to do when you come off your kayak.

Next we hit the water and went through several drills, like getting back on your kayak if you come off. Much of the morning was spent getting in and out of the surf, with Lawrence never being too far off to deliver advice and tips. By the time the second morning came around, both my friend and I were fairly proficient in making our way through the waves, reading the conditions and knowing when not to do certain things.

Our two-day training stint with Lawrence from St Lucia Kayak Fishing really exceeded my expectations. His knowledge of the sea, gained from spending a lifetime on the Natal coastline, seemed to never run dry. Aside from sharing his kayak techniques and knowledge, he also gave us a massive amount of info on fishing – what works and what doesn't.

I actually met up with a fairly experienced kayak fisherman the week after our training, and he was pleasantly surprised at how much we learnt in such a short time. From kayaks to reading surf conditions and hooking into a big catch, our two days with Lawrence was worth the drive from Johannesburg.

Francois Delport,

Johannesburg

www.deepseakayakfishing.com

St Lucia Estuary ... People Fishing again!

2010-10-29T19:56:00.000+02:00

With water supply restored to the town it is inevediable for holidaymakers and eco tourist to flock into the region once again.

Reports of Grunter is streaming in and fisherman will heard on the beaches over spring tide next weekend to catch some elusive specimens.

For the eco tourist the good news is in the filled up water holes and wetlands atracting many fowl like Egyptian Gees, Spurwing Gees and many more. Fruitbats hanging around town and Hippo sharing a night stroll with people enjoying the fresh air. Red Duiker and Bushbuck greeting you with the Hornbill's wake up call.

St Lucia will always be the best place to hang out ....

liMfolozi River Current Condition

2010-10-26T17:08:00.000+02:00

Filled to the brim the river is constantly flowing into the ocean. Prevailing wind pushes the merky water northwards towards Mission Rocks. It is to early to tell but this could clear up by the weekend.

Dry tap is no more an option and resort owners are prepaired for any unforseen misshaps,thus for a fun filled Christmas for this peacefull town is eminent.

Watch this space for regular updates. Who know we may have an estuary breach into the ocean before then.

Village Corner Service Station

2010-10-25T20:12:00.000+02:00

Car & Bus Wash Bay, Village Corner Liquors, Take Away, Convienience Store, Spare Shop, Wheel & Tyre Repair bay. Domestic Gas, Ice, ATM, Lotto and Airtime.

Easy acces to fuel pumps for Boats and Busses. Free wash for large Tour Busses with every fill up.

Tel: 035 590 1478

Cnr of Dolphin Street and Pelican Street Stlucia Estuary, iSimangaliso Wetlands Park, The Elephant Coast of South Africa.

Salon Nelique

2010-10-25T20:02:00.000+02:00

Beauty Salon, St Lucia Estuary, iSimangaliso Wetlands Park, Elephant Coast of South Africa.

Tel: 035 590 1417
Cel: 084 764 2981

St Lucia Yesterday, Today and Tomorow

2010-10-21T19:58:00.001+02:00

As I stood talking to two of the local residents whom have ocupied the town like forever it became evedent that things will never be the same again, but then our generation would clearly not survive St Lucia of yester year.

We are the fast food generation, the parents of the thumb tribe... Ironacaly this entry is done on a E63 punching away at micro keypad at five words a minute and no spell checker to help.

St. Lucia has develeop into a world class Tourist destination and is one of the only towns surrounded by a Game Park. As one of the permenant residance, Johan owmer of the boat Harlekyn, once said on a TV interview. 'St Lucia is the only place in the world where a Hippo and a dog can talk to each other.'

As this is to true since many video has been made and landed on Youtube about the free roaming Hippo. Small Red Duiker are ever present and the sad call off the Trumpeter Hornbill as your wake up call.

Today I am sure was a spring day since the migrating Swallows has arrived some time this week from Europe. They are still very vocal as nesting arrangements are sorted. Some how people frown if one dare claim that Spring sprung late this year.

Tomorrow people will be embarking on fishing trips, Whale watching and snorkeling. Some will even go on an Estuary Cruise and others will walk around town or feasting in one off the many Restaurants.

What ever yor Holiday plans are make sure that it includes a trip up or down the coast and popin for a soal refreshing stay.

IMfolozi River current conditions

2010-10-20T18:13:00.000+02:00

With the recent rains it is un avoidable for the River to continue its ancient path to the Indian ocean. Current wind conditions is diong natures part in ensuring favaroble fishing conditions for this weekend.

iMfolozi River current condition

2010-10-08T12:47:00.000+02:00

The drizle rain has increased the water table.

iMfolozi Current Conditions

2010-10-02T19:08:00.000+02:00

Above the water works the water table has clearly risen but this will not influence fishing conditions over the weekend. Monday could bring some down pours that might change the situation for the weekend of the 6th. When the iMfolozi water flows it takes loads of top soil down river into the ocean at St. Lucia. This results in muddy water North and South of the river mouth and water could be murky as far North as Mission Rocks.

Water on tap in St. Lucia should be more available this week for the water table in the River bed has improved dramatically and all the drainage that was dug in the river bed is currently filled with seepage water from the raising water table. Only rain can bring relief to a tedious and expensive task of digging drainage burrows into the river bed.

Advantage News 18 September 2010

2010-09-18T13:04:00.001+02:00

DEAR FRIENDS IN TOURISM

WHALE WATCHING sightings has again been very special this season with daily guaranteed sightings of HUMPBACK Whales, extras sightings including large schools of dolphins every other day, flying fish which still catches everybody's imagination ( imagine seeing this little fish jumping out of the water next to the vessel, and then for the next 800m's having this 'fish' 'fly' next to the boat with those see-through wings - nobody that haven't
seen a flying fish before will be able to understand...,very few people have ever been able to actually photograph this little creature...

We have also spotted some Leatherback Turtles next to the boat, a sign that the turtles are back on their way to come and lay their eggs on our beaches between the months of November to February.

A week ago an extra sighting of a great white shark was also extraordinary special.

And then off course it was a heart sore day when the baby HUMPBACK whale washed up on the beach and eventually had to be shot, there has been a couple of dead whales washing up along the coastline as every other year. Only thing that can be done is to take a skin sample, send it off to Marine and Coastal Management who can then determine the cause of death.

There have been the odd 'bad-wind' days in-between, where we have had to cancel trips, but otherwise overall good ocean conditions and good
sightings.

WHALE WATCHING season lasts until the 1st week of December, after which we will start a daily 07h00 - 10h00 Dolphin/Marine Mammal Ocean Adventure trip to enjoy those 2hours on the ocean, see the highest dunes at Mapelane and a drive past the Jolly Rubino Shipwreck.

HIPPO / CROC trips aboard the ADVANTAGE CRUISER same as always, a must-to-do, and this week again the great extra bonus of the leopard walking along the banks of the estuary.
NEW little hippo calves are also born quite regularly, and ooh's and aah's from the customers onboard.
Always to bring along a camera for those special sightings!

Keep on sending your clientele for these trips that bring memories that last a lifetime!

Fond Regards for now
Riette on behalf of Advantage Whale and Hippo trips
035 5901259 (office)
083 487 2762 (after hour's cell nr)
advantage@zululink.co.za
035 5901053 (fax)

Current conditions iMfolozi River

2010-09-18T11:57:00.000+02:00

The river is not bone dry, but the dry conditions in KZN is showing. The rain did not bring much relief and water shortages will be with us for a while to come. Property owners are installing Jobo water tanks to make up for the dry tap periods that is haunting the town.

Fwd: Bird Photos

2010-08-28T00:10:00.001+02:00

Lesser Masked Weaver (fairly common local resident) which means they are seen 1-10 a day in suitable habitat only in restricted areas of that habitat breeding in SA -

- photo by Shane Chudleigh at Hluhluwe

White Fronted Plover (common resident) which means they are seen 10-50 times a day in suitable habitat and breed in SA - photo by I du Plessis beach St Lucia

Red-winged Pratincole (locally common summer visitor) which means they are seen only in restricted areas of suitable habitat

10-50 times a day during September to March. Photo by LQ du Plessis at Pan Loop

Imelda

Winter has it own charms ...

2010-08-03T21:35:00.000+02:00

Winter has it own charms, breathtakingly beautiful bright orange sunsets over the lake, warm sunny days and of course better fishing opportunities with the cooler ocean water. I really do not know how man (women too!) get up at first sunlight (or before) to go fishing from an ice cold beach. I can only manage that in summer, psychologically I cannot move below 15°. My father of 75 caught 2 Garrick so far this season and I am very appreciative to the selfless stronger men out there helping him land the fish. Shad is here, just waiting for the big ones, and be aware of the sharks out there too hunting the same fish as you.

This is all very exciting but all this fishing leaves a foul smell on the beach and between the rocks. I am referring to the litter of plastic, fishing line and the toxic cigarette butts. How difficult can be too put your litter (of any kind) in a rubbish bag to throw away in a more suitable environment for rubbish.

It breaks my heart to see crabs entangled in fishing line or birds starve to death due to plastic caps in their stomachs giving them a false sense of fullness. The baby fish are just starting out and the need to be in protected pool at this stage in their lives, now that little pool is contaminated with a cigarette.

The other concern I have is the disturbance of shells with living creatures inside them. Why would you pry a shell off the rock then put it upside down and walk off.? How must the snail get upright again? Like one unintelligent aunty told me when I asked her the question politely, "I want the shell, the thingy can crawl out and find another shell". The other thing that makes my blood boil is the small fishing nets used to destroy tidal pools. The banging, scraping and moving of rocks all destroy sensitive small systems, even plants start out small. My husband pick-up a small fishing net way out at sea while he was fishing from his kayak with 2 tiny fishes (about 1,5 cm long) caught in the netting. They would have died there, too much sun and no food. On release they both dived for the bottom, starved most probably. This made me realise that the majority of "good" people do not know anything about shells and life on rocky shores and beaches.

It is always the parents' responsibility to teach their children to respect nature and to preserve nature for the future. Children imitate parents more than they realise. It was my father who instilled this need to protect nature, he was the example. I remember him catch and release birds, spiders, mice rather than kill them. He would move pythons back into the forest after a meal so that people cannot see or hurt it when most vulnerable and slow. My point I had a good example and we had books about animals too.

My request to you is to pick-up shells washed up after a high tide, leave the living ones alone, and to put your litter in a bag not hide it in rock crevices. Look at the fish in the tidal pools and feed them if you like but do not disturb their little world. If you see someone abusing your heritage, explain to them in a friendly manner the impact of their actions. Take their insults like a man but I bet you they will think about your words next time.

Imelda Du Plessis
Manager - St Lucia Wilds
Self-Catering Holiday Accommodation
Tel/Fax: 035 590 1033 www.stluciawilds.co.za

PS: Think twice before you support illegal animal and plant trade or craft.
Please use our water sparingly and do not litter.
Special rates for September and October 2010, just ask.

iSimangaliso WHALE WATCHING 2010

2010-07-28T18:16:00.001+02:00

Dear All

A full week of very successful HUMPBACK WHALE sightings and many satisfied clientele onboard the ADVANTAGE CHARTER boat-based-whale-watching vessel from St Lucia with extra additional sightings daily of Common and Bottlenose Dolphins.

This week saw us with a repeat sighting of a peculiar Humpback Whale that was spotted in 2009 during whale season with a unique marking, thus again just showing that the same family of whales use the same migratory route year after year.

Whale watching season lasts until the beginning of December, so please make sure to join this once-in-a-lifetime experience to see these gigantic mammals from as close as 50m’s.

For more information see our website: www.advantagetours.co.za

e-mail: advantage@zululink.co.za

cell: 083 487 2762

off : 035 5901259

…” LET’s GO WHALE WATCHING”…!!

Best Regards

Riette Bennett

Free Inclusion

2010-07-24T09:20:00.001+02:00

St. Lucia Org Za has a very neat Blog. Contributions to this Blog can be send to info@stlucia.org.za and will be added free of charge. 1 - 3 photo's and some text. All contact details and a web address will be added. Please write the email as a Blog story. The Blog is auto updated via email. Get St. Lucia on the map with low cost high exposure marketing. A Web Log is like a dairy ... all about the day to day happenings ...

Keep the flow of information going while the spotlight is on St. Lucia. Regular updates will attract more visitors and people will be influenced to make impulsive dissensions on their next weekend trip. St. Lucia is a unique little town with many things to do, but we need to keep the information flowing. Conferences, Fishing Competitions or community events all need the same exposure. This is the platform.

Contact: Petrus Viviers
083 584 7473

Lodge Afriquè - Guest House

2010-07-22T17:21:00.000+02:00

Lodge Afriquè is a newly built 4 star Bed and Breakfast Guest House with eight free standing thatched suites each with full afro/Victorian bathroom. Lodge Afriquè can cater for up to 16 people at a time. The spacious and luxurious air conditioned suites each with a private outdoor shower leading of the patio is situated in a tropical garden with a sparkling pool. All the suites are connected to the Central Lodge by a raised wooden deck pathway over the beautiful garden.
Guests gather in the Central Lodge which includes the Breakfast, Bar, Braai and Leisure Area equipped with satellite television.

EMail: info@lodgeafrique.com

Telephone: 27 035 5901696

Fax: 27 035 5901696

web:www.lodgeafrique.com

Kwêla Rapport Town of the Year Award.

2010-07-21T20:39:00.002+02:00

Vote and win. sms St. Lucia to 33157 and stand a chance to win Great Prices. This is a no brainer we all know St. Lucia should be the Kwela Town of the year. By joinning us in claiming this award you stand a chance to win big prices. Voting is limmited to only 100 sms's per entry. Each Vote is only R1.50. For a mere R...150.00 you can ensure a chance to a great Maritius Holiday for two.

Vote now and keep on voting ... Do not stop ... 100 per cell is the target ...

Remember "St. Lucia" to 33157 (please advice your friends)

Pieter Cilliers Produksies - Kwêla

www.pietercilliers.co.za

Pieter Cilliers Produksies BK bestaan sedert 1989, toe Pieter Cilliers die SAUK verlaat het om as uitvoerende regisseur by M-Net se Carte Blanche oor te neem. Die produksie-huis was oor die afgelope jare verantwoordelik vir programme soos: Kwêla, Kunskafee, Pasella, SigNature, Improve your Frame of ... Persone wat in die finale rondte van Kwêla en Rapport se Dorp van die Jaar-kompetisie stem deur een van die finaliste se naam (St. Lucia) na 33157 te sms*, kom outomaties in aanmerking vir die volgende prys wat deur World Luxury Hotel Awards geborg word:

R1.50 per sms ...

HUMPBACK WHALE SIGHTINGS in St Lucia

2010-07-21T14:55:00.001+02:00

HUMPBACK whale-watching-season is back on track since the beginning of June and lasts until the beginning of December.

So far this year we've been blessed with aweseme sightings of the gigantic 40ton Humpback Whale a mere 50m's from the boat.

This is truly an experience of a lifetime, and yes, something on your must-to-do list that has to be ticked off.

These tours are done aboard the ADVANTAGE CHARTER boat in St Lucia, lasts 2hours on the ocean , but we need 3hours of your time to travel to-and-from the beach.

From the 1st of June until the end of Nov sightings are gauranteed, if you have not seen any whale after 2hours at sea, you get a 40% refund.

Whale greetings

Riette

StLuciaOrgZa - ebook vol1

2010-07-01T07:00:00.001+02:00

Open publication - Free publishing - More whale watching

Kwalucia Private Safari Retreat

2010-06-29T19:13:00.003+02:00

Kwalucia Private Safari Retreat is nestled in the beautiful village of St Lucia in KwaZulu-Natal, the only private village in Southern Africa to be completely surrounded by a UNESCO Natural World Heritage Site, the iSimangaliso Wetland Park (Formerly the Greater St Lucia Wetland Park) .

Kwalucia Private Safari Retreat is the first 5-star Bed and Breakfast/Guest house in St Lucia. This a newly built exclusive African Safari Retreat is born from the combination of the Zulu spirit and the passion for unspoiled wilderness. We offer 4 exclusive African styled en suite guestrooms, all of which have each a private patio leading onto a romantic tropical garden with indigenous trees.

All suites are equipped with bar fridge, tea and coffee making facilities, air conditioning, ceiling fans, Digital wall safe, hairdryer and WiFi access point.

All bathrooms are equipped with spacious showers, wash hand basin and a relaxing Victorian free standing bath, bath robes, toilet and shaving plugs, all in a beautiful African style design.

After a wonderful day of unforgettable experiences in St. Lucia and the surrounding areas your luxury and cosy room will fulfil your dreams. Wake up in the morning knowing that each day will allow for the adventure and peace of Africa to enter your soul.

At Kwalucia Private Safari Retreat hearty breakfast is served in the dining area in- or outside, overlooking the large rim flow pool, or on your request on your private patio.

At this romantic intimate Safari Retreat, all our guests have access to a large well lit swimming pool with rim flow. A well designed sundeck awaits you for relaxing and peaceful afternoons.

The main lounge provides you with full DSTV and a small library for your leisure and relaxation.

Around the fire in the boma, it is the perfect place where tales of the day are told. Dinners can be arranged on request.

Kwalucia Private Safari Retreat is situated within safe walking distance (just watch out for the hippos at night) to the main road (McKenzie Street), where numerous excellent restaurants are situated to cater all your desires.

Kwalucia Private Safari Retreat form a combination of calm and convenience, resulting in absolute comfort for guests who want to relax and rejuvenate their spirits with an opportunity to explore and to discover the staggeringly beautiful surroundings.

Owner management - English, Afrikaans, French & Dutch spoken.

THE RATES:

RATES: From 01 November 2010 - 31 October 2012:
										Per person per night sharing : R 840 Per person per night single : R 950 Children under 12 year old : R 395
........................................................................................
Rates include a healthy Country Style Breakfast,witch includes hot breakfast, teas, coffee facilities and water. All rates are inclusive 14% VAT and in (ZAR) South African Rand. During our high season (15 Dec – 10 Jan) prices increase by 10%. Rates are subject to change without prior notice, however rates quoted for confirmed booking (50% deposit on reservation) will be honored. Diners are available on request: R240 per person including a half bottle of wine and waters. Airport shuttle from & to Richards Bay can be arranged: price available on request. Packages: price available on request. Tour operators and agents rates available on request. Check-in time is from 14H – Check-out time is before 11 o’clock. Please note as courtesy to other guest, no smoking is permitted in the suites, dining room and lounge,however these are smoking facilities on the private patios etc….
PAYMENTS:A deposit of 50% of the total accommodation charges is required to confirm a provisional reservation. For our high season (15 Dec – 10 Jan) where a full payment is required in advance

CANCELLATIONS: our cancellations or non arrival policy is as follow:

4 weeks before arrival 50% of full amount is forfeited
2 weeks before arrival 75% of full amount is forfeited
1 week or less before arrival 100% of full amount is forfeited

ACTIVITIES

ISIMANGALISO WETLAND PARK TOURS (Eastern shore):
You will discover the many treasures of the park. Guided tours in safari vehicles or self-drives tours in your own vehicle will give you the opportunity to discover the rocks pools at Mission Rock, Cape Vidal, Banghazi lake, a number of gravel roads (accessible with sedan cars) through the different ecosystems, short walks to suited look out point with views of the Indian ocean, rolling grassland and lake St Lucia will give you the opportunity to experience nature close up; to taste; to smell and feel the bush….

BIG 5 GAMES DRIVES:
There is nothing as iconic of Africa as the Big 5. In the Hluhluwe-Umfolozi Game Reserve,once the hunting grounds of the famous Zulu chief Shaka,the park is renown for its efforts in saving the white rhino from extinction and the magnificence of these first foothills of the coastal escarpment. White rhino abound and sightings of elephants are not unusual. The park also has lion, cheetah, black rhino, leopard, wild dog, a large population of giraffe and much more. Bird sightings may include lesser jacana, lapped-vaced vultures ,bateleur eagles, white-headed vultures, southern banded snake eagle etc…Guided safari in open vehicles or self guided safari in your own vehicle can be organized.

BOAT TRIPS AND SUNDOWN CRUISE:
On the estuary will leave memories of St Lucia that will always be treasured.

WHALES WATCHING:
(Seasonal) From June to November, humpback whales pass along the coastline during their annual migration from their feeding grounds in the Antarctic, to calve off the coast of Mozambique. These phenomenal mammals can weigh up to 45 tons and are sometimes visible from the shoreline, however a boat based whale watching tour is highly recommended.

TURTLES TOURS:
(Seasonal) From November to March the female turtle emerges, under the cover of the darkness, from the sea, seeking a suitable site to dig a 1 meter deep nest….Where you experience the miracle of nesting of the leatherback ( weighs up to 900 kgs) and loggerheads turtles. Step into the world of those amazing and ancient reptiles as they dodge sharks offshore and humans,crabs,badgers and jackals on shore to return and hatch from these ancient nesting grounds.
An overnight tour with qualifies guides

OCEAN SAFARIS:
Explore marine magnificence: Scuba diving and snorkeling are found to various destinations within the iSimangaliso Wetland Park, from Cape Vidal to Sodwana Bay….Sodwana Bay is one of the top 10 diving sites in the world. Over 1200 species of fish, whales, sharks, manta ray and the rare coelacanth have been recorded. The reefs have 95 known species of 43 groups of hard coral and 11 known groups of soft coral.

BEACHES AND DUNES SAFARIS:
iSimangaliso Wetland Park is a sub tropical paradise with massive golden sand dunes, which are some of the world highest vegetated dunes ,tumble onto miles of glistering golden beaches lapped by the blue waters of the warm Indian Ocean…Walking along the sea shore with sea spray dancing on your face will simply rejuvenate your soul….

BIRDING SAFARIS:
The Zululand Birding Route as developed an experienced network of local guides to assist birders find the “specials” of a specific birding site using local knowledge and observation skills…

WALKING SAFARIS:
Self-guided walk to wilderness trails with qualified rangers will leave you with memories of a life time as you go “game viewing”.

CYCLING SAFARIS:
Guides cycled trips including bicycle hire, are offered in and around St Lucia taking in views of the ocean and trips through the forest…

HORSE RIDING SAFARIS:
A number of different horse riding safaris are on offer. From a 1 hour ride along the beach up to a multi-day safari through the bush…

CANOEING AND KAYAK SAFARIS:
Kayaking tours with experienced guides on the Estuary allow visitors to get up close to an array of water birds, hippos and crocodiles…

NIGHT DRIVE SAFARIS:
Share the quietness and the peace of the African nights trying to spot one of our local leopards, hippos ,bush babies and many more of the night life…

DEEP SEA FISHING:
For the big game fisherman the waters of the Indian Ocean provide a spirited challenge, with the deep zones of the continental shelf being home to species such as marlin, seal fish, barracuda, tuna, king and queen fish…

CROCODILE AND SNAKE CENTER:
You can visit the crocodile center on your own or join a guided tour and watch the feed of the crocs on certain days.
A nice well stocked curious shop is situated within the center…

CULTURAL TOURS:
There are several cultural villages that provide a historical experience of Zulu traditional life. Learn about the task performed by different members of a community, watch energic Zulu dancing and taste traditional brewed sorghum beer.

GOLF, TENNIS AND SQUASH:
2 golf courses are within close distances of St Lucia: the Monzi Golf Course is situated 16 kms from St Lucia and the Umfolozi Golf Course is 55 kms away. Both courses are 9 holes courses with 2 tees off positions, this making them 18 holes courses. Other facilities at the clubs include tennis and squash courts…

KWALUCIA:
At KWALUCIA PRIVATE SAFARI RETREAT, you can just indulge yourself around the swimming pool, at the sundeck or at your private patio…

P.O. Box 33
17 Katonkel St
3936 St Lucia Estuary
KwaZulu Natal
South Africa

Tel: 0027(0)35 5901077
Cell: 0027(0)72 9930077
Fax: 0027(0)86 6174128

kwalucia@kwalucia.com
www.kwalucia.com

St Lucia Break away Weekend - Mangos Guest House

2010-06-07T14:05:00.001+02:00

It is official. St. Lucia is one of the places to relax and recharge your batteries. Since everything is such a rush and so little time to do so many things a two night weekend is a short hop from Durban, Pietermaristzburg or even as far as Ermelo. Maybe St. Lucia is not the fishing destination it normally presents it self as. For this there is many reasons, but with the recent early winter rain the Lake Levels are substantially higher and an Estuary Boat Cruise is a must.

From Next month the whale season will be in full swing and for those who would like to avoid the rush one could wait until then, but currently the Advantage Crew has delivered and their Whale and mammal Tour is just the thing for a couple to enjoy on a quick Romantic break away weekend. St. Lucia is so compact that one can meander on a late afternoon stroll and end up in one of the many very Romantic Restaurants. A late night walk back home will only disturb the roaming Hippo and antelope.

Book you weekend now in this Rustic upmarket Log home. Mangoes Guest House can be booked as a self catering house or Bed and Breakfast. This cozy Home is with in walking distance of the Estuary Boat Cruise, Walking Trails and Restaurants. Night Drives onto the Eastern Shores will pick you up from your door step and bookings can be done in advance to avoid disappointment. The ambiance of a weekend at Mangoes will set the mood for late afternoon walk along the Hippo's and Crocks on the elevated path ways.

An Afternoon picnic at Honeymoon bend or a morning drive to Cape Vidal. All this in Nature away from city life. Cape Vidal and the eastern shores route offers four of the Big Five and on the way, there is many view points to visit and Hippo pools to stop at. Book now and spoil a loved one.

Just reply to this entry to set everything in motion.

(by Petrus Viviers)

Cape Vidal Gate Times and Fees

2010-06-04T17:03:00.000+02:00

Gate Hours

1 November to 31 March	05h00 to 19h00
1 April to 31 October	06h00 to 18h00

120 per day Visitor Vehicle limit
Admission Reserved

Entrance Fees

Per Person: Adults    R25.00
                    Children R15.00

Per Vehicle: 1-9     passengers R 35.00
                     10-20 passengers R 70.00
                     21+    passengers R140.00

St. Lucia Wilds - Self Catering Accommodation

2010-06-02T20:03:00.000+02:00

St Lucia Wilds offer self-catering holiday accommodation in Zululand, South Africa for couples, single travellers, families, birders, eco-tourists, "mature" backpackers and nature enthusiasts. Our vacation units are neat, clean in a garden setting on the embankment of the St Lucia Estuary away from the town noise.

St Lucia town is uniquely situated surrounded by a World Heritage Site, the iSimangaliso Wetland Park, an ideal base to explore and experience our unspoilt natural heritage.

The park stretches 220 km along the northern coastline of Kwa-Zulu Natal, against the warm Indian Ocean. This area boasts:

1000 Nile crocodiles;
8 Inter-linked ecosystems;
526 bird species;
800 hippos;
35 species of frogs;
105 species of fish.
Ceolocanths;
African Elephant;
Whales;
100 coral species;
5 species of Turtles.
5 Cultural groups.

We have the only significant major swamp forest in SA, 25 000 year old vegetated costal dunes, 3 major lake systems ( Lake Sibaya, - St Lucia and Kosi Bay), all 5 south african mangrove tree species, 36 species of snake, 80 species of dragonflies, 110 species of Butterflies and more than 2000 species of flowering plants.

See the Big 5 (Lion, Leopard, Elephant, Buffalo and Rhino) as well as the other 5 (Hippo, Crocodile, Fish Eagle, Leatherback and Loggerhead Sea Turtles and Humpback Whales) while you relax in the warm humid summer tropical climate.

Watch the sun set rise over the sea and set over the lake the same day, be awaked by sound of the Trumpeter Hornbill sad song, feel the sun burn your skin and breathe in the clean warm air of one of the oldest and most diverse reserves in the world.

174 McKenzie Street,
  P.O. Box 70
  St Lucia, 3936
  Telephone and Fax +27 35 5901033

Cape Vidal Road Closure??

2010-06-02T09:33:00.002+02:00

Isimangaliso Wetlands Park Closed | GameReserveHluhluwe.com
By admin
Please note that should you be interested in visiting Cape Vidal ( Isimangaliso Wetlands Park ) that the road to this destination will be closed due to construction work. Cape Vidal is and has been in need of the construction work for a ...
GameReserveHluhluwe.com - http://www.gamereservehluhluwe.com/

Let us put some dates and detail to this email. It was only the last 4km of road leading to the beach that was closed and this should be open by 03 June 2010. So any body en route to Cape Vidal for fishing or snorkeling this weekend would not have any difficulty with getting there safely. This weekend should be lovely sunny weather and Shad could also be on the specie list for recreational angling. This specie has been caught up and down the coast this season already and a monster specimen was landed by Deon from Raggie Tackle.

Accommodation Bookings can be done here ... or on St LuciaOrgZa

Inquiries:
Petrus Viviers
0835847473
info@stlucia.org.za

Goodmorning St Lucia

2010-05-31T09:57:00.001+02:00

A Morning Sunrise over the Indian Ocean with a Cuppauccino and a Choc Chip muffin clears all the stress. With the winter hollidays upon us it is a good time to head down to your favourite coastal destination.

Vervet Monkexs

2010-05-31T09:56:00.000+02:00

At the braai area at Cape Vidal one must keep the food out of their reach.

The iMfolozi River

2010-05-30T19:36:00.000+02:00

Currently flowing into the ocean just south of St Lucia Estuary. Also a very popular fishing spot as it enters the ocean. The flow influance fishing and brings great deposits of top soil from its catchment areas high in the mountains.

St Lucia Honeymoon Bend

2010-05-30T09:02:00.000+02:00

A Public open space with a loveley view shielded from windy conditions.

St Lucia Mouth area

2010-05-30T08:30:00.000+02:00

Still closed. With low water levels in the wetlands this condition will not change soon.

Nile Crocodile St Lucia Estuary

2010-05-28T15:26:00.000+02:00

About 2000 crocodiles living in The iSimangaliso Wetlands system

Estuary Boat Cruise

2010-05-28T15:18:00.000+02:00

Some beautifull views can be seen from such a cruise

St Lucia Estuary Current Conditions

2010-05-28T15:09:00.000+02:00

The St Lucia Estuary mouth is still closed, but the water levels is high.

Fishing Weekend 30/04/2010 - 03/05/2010

2010-04-30T14:27:00.000+02:00

Fishing Kwa Zulu Natal North Coast Richards Bay to Cape Vidal

Tides High & Low

Date	High	Low	High	Low
30/04/2010	04:31	16:55	10:41	22:55
01/05/2010	05:05	17:29	11:14	23:29
02/05/2010	05:37	08:03	11:46	-- : --
03/05/2010	06:10	18:38	00:03	12:20
04/05/2010	06:46	19:19	00:41	12:57

Weather

Saturday 01/05/2010. Max 24C Min 15C.
Mostly sunny with a shower in places in the afternoon. Winds from the WSW at 8 km/h.

Saturday Night, May 1

More Details

Occasional rain and drizzle in the evening; otherwise, clouds breaking. Winds from the SSW at 16 km/h.

Sunday, May 2

More Details

Partly sunny and pleasant. Winds from the ESE at 12 km/h.

Realfeel®: 23 °C

High: 22 °C

Sunday Night, May 2

More Details

Overcast. Winds from the N at 17 km/h.

Realfeel®: 14 °C

Monday, May 3

More Details

Variable cloudiness. Winds from the WNW at 17 km/h.

Realfeel®: 24 °C

High: 26 °C

Monday Night, May 3

More Details

Mainly clear. Winds from the WNW at 12 km/h.

Realfeel®: 17 °C

Where and When to Fish
Richards Bay
South, Short and North Pier. This is extreme fishing weather and expect to find some more Santers/Reds/Soldiers in the Harbor and from the Piers. Santers seek saf haven in protected deep water bay's when storms are brooding over the deeper water. The are small to medium size and a bottom trace line is needed with no. 2 kennel round hooks. Will take Squid and Pink Prawn. Get your bait en route from The Fish Zone in Davidson lane. They have good quality fresh bait at competitive prices.

St. Estuary

Changing wind directions and weather patterns is an excellent time to fish. Also adding to these favorable conditions is the fact that it is only three days after Full moon. With high tides early in the morning and late afternoon it compounds to these excellent conditions. With the wind pushing from South and water flowing down the iMfolozi River one would visit the Northern fishing spots at St. Lucia. Starting from the new beach all the way past marker no.4, The slides to First Rocks. Expected catches will be Salmon, cock Grunter, Pompano and spotted Grunter. Take a variety of bait and remember live bait will render more results. Get your mole crabs, buy some prawn and fresh sardine. Baby Squid should also be included.

Cape Vidal
Cape Vidal South and North of the bay. The N4 board all around to the light house will produce fish and medium to heavy Rock and Surf Tackle is needed. Small Carentee and Garfish from the bay will supplement your bait box. Remember no bait from the rocks north of the N4 sign.

Keep on Fishing - only take what you eat above the legal size and bag limit. Do not break bear bottles and clean up our beautiful places when done enjoying your self.

by: Petrus Viviers
083 584 7473

St Lucia Water Levels

2010-04-15T11:15:00.000+02:00

The iMfolozi River is flowing strongly and the water levels in the lake is sustainable.

No Low Flying over the wetlands

2010-04-10T09:28:00.000+02:00

Pilot fined R12 000 for low-flying
According to Andrew Zaloumis, chief executive of the iSimangaliso Wetland Park authority, parks are like “honey pots”, and there are pilots who profit from ...
www.africageographic.com/newsroom/index.../pilot-fined-r12-000-for-low-flying/

This no fly zone dates back to the days the Apartheid Government tested missiles in the upper parts of Lake St. Lucia.

Alternative route

2010-03-11T20:47:00.001+02:00

Driving between Charters and Fanies need not be boring. The old road has some spectacular views.

Sunset at St Lucia Estuary

2010-03-10T10:28:00.001+02:00

Stil the best place in the world to be.

iMfolozi River flowing

2010-03-10T04:51:00.002+02:00

Not strong but constantly. This will have an impact on fishing conditions along the coast North and South of the iMfolozi River. With Atum approaching fast weather conditions will change daily if not hourly. This will again lead to discussions about the effectiveness of weather forecast by the weather sites all around the world.

Do we expect a breach at the mouth this equinox ... maybe not. But a Cyclone from Mozambique might just do the trick. This will not be a lengthy opening or a sustained opening of the mouth.The main reasoning about this could be that Trees are planted all along the catchment area of the five rivers feeding the Lake system. No quota system is in place to control this.

The rapidly increase of the demand for sugar also has a very adverse effect on the water tables, soil erosion and natural forests. And we worry about Global warming ... yeah right ...

Wet conditions in Wetland Park catchment

2010-01-27T11:04:00.001+02:00

One of the main aqteries feeding rural Zululand and The St Lucia Estuary with fresh water is The White Imfolozi River and it is in flood. The next few days.

Dorethea as told by Petrus Viviers (use the red and white X)

2010-01-14T13:47:00.001+02:00

Since I started writing about St. Lucia Estuary in 1993 many people bashed my English and some my facts ... http://www.stlucia.org.za is the domain of P.J. Viviers and I may as well publish what I like... since I am Afrikaans and a white South African male, I have the ego to back myself ... Any way I have been insulted for my version of the English and Afrikaans Language by many and have help people with compiling a wonderful Experience around The Greater St. Lucia Wetlands Park since I can remember.

When my English or my personal rendering of publish work offend you please find the easy escape button on the top right hand corner of your Browser. It is a White X on a red back ground ... for your convenience ....

This email came through my email inbox ...

Mr Viviers
I found this on the web and have a few comments about it,

Jannie Smit is my old diving buddy and if the J vd Walt was the late Johnny - also an old friend.

I seriously doubt your implication that they recovered a fortune - as they certainly didn't show it.

I have done some diving on a big wreck on the outside of Cape Vidal reef that is purported to be the Dorothea [See Beneath Southern Seas] on 2 dead flat days when all the sand had gone and we had 40ft of water with wreckage all over the rocky bottom, We were able to crawl all over the reef looking in every gully - but no sign of gold or any signs of concrete.
In the many years I dived on that coast we usually always had a dive on the outside of the reef and apart from one weekend - there was always sand.

And for all the sand to go [It is normally 10 - 15ft deep on the outside] is extremely rare. And there is far too much sand to move - by any means.

In the 60s two divers [Henk Viljoen and ?? Trosky - I think] spent a year camped there and never found the sand gone.

Besides I have done serious research on the D and the written history tells of her being dis-masted around St Lucia whereas the pic shows a ship with masts intact hard against the reef`s outer edge.!!!.

I find your story "Full of holes" and very inaccurate and misleading. Especially saying Kruger and the Dorothea were bound for England. Perhaps you don't know what Anglo - Boer war means? Like they would sail to the enemy ! Sure.
Do your history sir.

I suspect from your name that English is not your home language but that is no excuse for the shocking abuse of the English language in this piece. If you wish to publish get an editor who knows the language. It would be less painful to read.

In short this story is Crap.

GA

Dorothea
Ship of Lost Treasure

Many stories surrounding the Dorothea have surfaced during 1898 and 2007. Nobody will ever know the truth. Three researches combined makes for interesting reading. Confusion set in because of this story's links to the Kruger millions.

Some where around the end of the Boer War it is believed that President Paul Kruger arrived in LM, now Maputo Mozambique, with a Dr. Kelly and heavily laden wagon. It is not clear how many and how heavy. Some eyewitness reports say that it was some sort of concrete sleepers or pylons.

Some where during the night, Dr. Kelly purchased a ship, almost a wreck, and called it Dorothea, loaded it heavily and departed for Port Natal during the next day. During the same night some eyewitnesses apparently saw President Paul Kruger boarded another ship for England.

The ill-fated Dorothea almost reached Cape Vidal when it had taken on water. The Captain put down the anker but the storm was to bad. He and the few crewmembers abounded ship in fear of their lives.

They found that the ship washed ashore the next morning along the coast of Cape Vidal as it dragged the anker during the night and where smashed in the days to follow along the rocks. The main mast and anker landed in the bay of Cape Vidal and most of the shipwreck is strewn along the coast for about 1.5 to 2.0km.

Many salvaging operations where foiled by the weather during the years to follow. The first apparent successful retrieval of relics, from the Dorothea, was made by Springbok Spear fisherman, Jannie Smih and divers Malcom Weise, Duke Visser and JC van Der Walt. This discovery was made in 1980. By this time any relics from this ship would have been worth its weight in gold.

The fact is that the Kruger millions is missing and some people retired early. How many Relics is still out there is un known and how much gold left LM with Paul Kruger will always be a mystery.

Story as told by:
P.J. Viviers

--

George [AKA] "The Askew"
"You judge a gun by the fish it loses - not lands"
+ 66 [0] 84 636 8125
Skype: george-askew
http://profile.to/georgeaskew

Victory belongs to those that believe in it the most and believe in it the longest.

Dear George ...

If you quick escape button on the right hand top side of the screen does not work please call on your service provider ...

Best Wishes

Petrus Viviers
petrus@forafrica.co.za

Warning to Visitors over the Festive Season

2009-12-22T03:10:00.000+02:00

December 21, 2009;

NEWS ITEM No: 2009 - 12 - 21

Ezemvelo KZN Wildlife (EKZNW) appeals to all visitors to the many protected areas under its management to take care of themselves and their loved ones during the festive season holidays.
Visitors to the uKhahlamba-Drakensberg Park are reminded that they need to fill in the hiking and rescue registers if they are going out on any walk or overnight hike in the Park.
The registers are available at all EKZNW reception offices in the Park and provide critically important information for search and rescue teams in cases of emergency.
It is essential to complete these registers legibly and as accurately as possible because this information could save lives.
Visitors are reminded that the weather in the Drakensberg can change very rapidly and they should equip themselves accordingly.

Visitors to EKZNW coastal parks should pay particular attention to local conditions of surf, current and estuary flow, and should preferably get local advice on prevailing conditions.
Visitors to the iSimangaliso Wetland Park are also reminded that almost all water bodies within the Park are potentially inhabited by crocodiles and visitors should keep well clear of the water’s edge and under no circumstances wade or allow their children to paddle or play in or near any pools, vleis, pans, estuaries or lakes.
The St Lucia Estuary at the town of St Lucia requires particular vigilance as there are many large crocodiles that can be regularly seen basking on the sand and mudbanks in the estuary.
Crocodiles are also present in the Umalalazi River where it flows through the Umlalazi Nature Reserve near the town of Mtunzini.

Visitors are also reminded that while wildlife is often seen amongst the chalets and campsites in the protected areas, these animals are not tame and members of the public should not try to touch them or feed them.

AJG/ News Item No: 2009 - 12 - 21
Media:
For further information contact the Media Manager on 033 845 1235; email jeff@kznwildlife.com or fax 033 845 1299.

Almost a winner - Maritza

2009-12-20T20:05:00.001+02:00

This beautiful 16kg Cuda was leading the competition by the end of day
one... Sorry it was not the biggest Fish ...

St Lucia Hippo

2009-12-08T08:45:00.000+02:00

The world famous Hippo are doing well in front the Ski Boat Club St Lucia Estuary iSimangaliso Wetlands Park.

Elephant Coast Website updated

2009-12-05T11:03:00.001+02:00

Since the lawyer letter received claimed that the words Elephant Coast
was the exclusive usage rights to The Elephant Coast Tourism
(Maputuland Tourism) we had no other way than to re-brand the domain and
recreate it completely. This is a tedious job and will take some time to
complete. So far we have done an amazing job and the text will change
over time as the copy writer is doubling as a web page designer.

Check out the new site at http://www.elephantcoast.co.za and see how it
grows daily.

Petrus Viviers
domain owner
083 584 7473
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Elephant Coast Tourism Web Site

2009-12-04T07:02:00.000+02:00

It is scary that one person or organization is attempting to dominate the key words and domain names surrounding Elephant Coast. On 04 December 2009 I joinded their domain to find that the newest news entry was last updated:

on 2007/10/31 15:30:00 (471 reads)

The name of the Greater St Lucia Wetland Park changes tomorrow to the iSimangaliso Wetland Park, as per the announcement by the Minister of Environmental Affairs and Tourism at Indaba in May this year. In order to celebrate this occasion, we have arranged an event with our neighbouring communities to celebrate the miracles and wonders of the iSimangaliso Wetland Park.

As the domain owner of http://www.elephantcoast.co.za and Marketer for various products in this Tourism region I find it very strange that people object to my domain when the flag ship is not flying any flags.

Petrus Viviers
Domain Owner
http://www.elephantcoast.co.za

All Domains under one Umbrella - Elephant Coast

2009-12-04T05:39:00.001+02:00

Property rights are violated in the attempt to posses all domain names to a region. This alone is bad marketing? Yes I agree. For 14 years I have spend my money on promoting the area. This when our Municipalities did not have the vision on the power of the Internet. I had all the time in the world to amalgamate as many domain names as any one person could. But Google, as a search engine, does not recognize this practice. To dominate a key word is futile, ludicrous and impossible.

If all peoples intention around a key word is to respect the word and to built the products behind th word way will one person or organizations attempt to fall pray to the mighty Internet domination thought and attempt a Hitler style take over of Key Words. This to me is short sightedness. I will have to write a report and submit it to the relevant authorities to clear this matter.

Search engines base the power of a web site to the size of the site, the age of the domain and the relevance of the content.

Search Engines look at:

How many relevant pages link to this site
How relevant is the content towards the key words
How old is the site

The ElephantCoastCoZa domain is now six years old. For Africa has invested a lot of time and money into this venture when nobody else believed in it. Why should I surrender all this time and money invested in this product for Free. It is stupidity. Their is many variants of these keywords still available in domain name form. No one will be able to dominate all of them. You have your domains ... why not focus on Branding the area. This is why you get all our tax money from the Government any way.

by Petrus Viviers
Domain Owner
http://www.elephantcoast.co.za

Domain ownership is a Right

2009-12-03T08:56:00.000+02:00

Domain ownership is property right and is covered by South African law which is in line with International law. It is basically works on a first come first serve basis. What it means is that if some one has registered a domain name for a valid reason then the domain remains that entities legal property. Freedom of speech stretches the meaning of valid reason far and leaves it widely open for interpretation.

When a person or legal entity wants to obtain some one else's property rights to a domain name it means you need to negotiate some sort of deal with the legal domain owner. The regulator body has a system in place when two parties agree to transfer such a domain they fill in a transfer request form. This transfer request form or ticket is presented to the domain owner for his/her approval.

On requesting such a ticket without the domain owners knowledge or permission is not only rude but it reflects poorly on your intentions and is similar to some one that attempts to transfer your legal ownership of your car or house with out your written consent. It is not on. Every web site manager will object to such methods of dealings.

by Petrus Viviers

083 584 7473
domain owner
Elephant Coast Co Za
St. Lucia Estuary
iSimangaliso Wetlands Park
kwaZulu Natal
South Africa

When dealing with the public

2009-12-02T07:31:00.001+02:00

Elephant Coast of South Africa is a claimed Trademark

It is a fact that their is a legal battle between the Domain Owner of http://www.elephantcoast.co.za and The Maputuland Tourism association regarding the use of this domain, but it is hardly a domain dispute. This domain was registered by Petrus Viviers in June 2003 and has since been used to promote The Elephant Coast, its culture and the Accommodation provided on the World Wide Web.

For Africa is the sole property of Petrus Viviers and was a brand name chosen in 1997 to promote and market products and Travel related news on the Internet. http://www.elephantcoast.co.za, http://www.stlucia.org.za and http://www.isimangaliso.co.za has been products that where the result of this venture. Like it or not it remains the products of Petrus Viviers.

The dispute that are now being legally resolved is between MAPUTULAND TOURISM ASSOCIATION (complainant) and Petrus Viviers (defendant). The matter is of a Trademark infringement nature where the lawyer objects to the fact that Petrus Viviers uses the words Elephant Coast in his marketing since it is the alleged property of Maputuland Tourism Association.

"Our client is the proprietor in South Africa of the trademark ELEPHANT COAST. Our client’s South African registration includes the following: "
"NO: 2009/15559 ELEPHANT COAST IN CLASS 35 IN RESPECT OF: Advertising, business management, office function, tourism region."
"This registered right entitles out client to prevent the use of the name or trademark by any other person, which is confusingly or deceptively similarly to ELEPHANT COAST trademark in relation to the goods or services for which the trademark is registered, or similar goods or services, where the use by the other person is likely to cause deception and/or confusion. Section 34 (1)(a) and 34(1)(b) of the Trademarks Act Number 94 of 1993 apply in this regard."

The matter is been dealt with and the domain http://www.lephantcoast.co.za will point to http://www.isimangaliso.co.za until this matter is resolved. Sorry for any inconvenience.

by Petrus Viviers
083 584 7473
Domain Owner
http://www.elephantcoast.co.za

Trademarking a Tourism region

2009-11-28T08:24:00.001+02:00

How does the trademarking of a Tourism Region affect you?

Have you expensive printed marketing material that cost you a fortune
for design and printing. Do you run a Tourism Business with in the
region. Do you run a marketing campaign with in the tourism region. What
services do you supply relating to Tourism. As a supplier of Tourism
products you need to be affiliated to an association that represent such
a region. But if your product is of service to general public and does
not constitute to a tourism product what is the implications to you in
such a case.

It will be advisable to see what your local tourism office has to say
before you land into legal hot water for merely trading as you have for
more than six years.

THIS IS AN IMPORTANT Notice!! your tourism region might have been trade
marked
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Elephant Coast has been trademarked

2009-11-27T11:45:00.001+02:00

This came as a shock to me because it use to be a tourism region that combined the some splintering associations with in and around the previously known Greater St. Lucia Wetlands Park. It is also now the sole right of The Elephant Coast Tourism Association to advertise products "Advertising, business management, office function, tourism region." in this region. Since the region was named through many public meetings of which many was postponed.

At the end of the meetings the name was put forward for the region to be The Elephant Coast. As such a new tourism region was declared by the Authorities and people have since been trading with reference to this tourism region. It now dawn on some web site owners that by way of trade mark proclamation it is no longer their to use the phrase Elephant Coast in your marketing material. It is not clear how one that trade in this region will refer to the region and how will you be able to market your self with in this confines.

We are living in a very Interesting Democratic South Africa.

St Lucia dogs are being killed

2009-11-21T10:33:00.000+02:00

Crime is rive

Guilty plea in fisheries case

2009-11-08T09:24:00.001+02:00

November 4, 2009;

MEDIA RELEASE No: 2009 - 16

GUILTY PLEA IN FISHERIES CASE
For Immediate release:

Ezemvelo KZN Wildlife (EKZNW) coastal staff report that David “Clive” Kenton (63) of 1122 Bluff Road, Durban, has again been sentenced in court on charges relating to a contravention of the Marine Living Resources Act.
The case arose when EKZNW Fishery Control Officers approached Kenton and two companions on 01 September 2009 at Banana Beach.
Kenton made a dash for the sea while the EKZNW officers were inspecting the bags of his two diving companions, and was seen to empty the contents of his bag into the water.
He was subsequently charged with obstructing a Fishery Control Officer in the course of his duties.
His two companions each paid fines for being over the bag limit of East Coast Rock Lobster.
A plea of guilty was tendered by Kenton on the 02 November 2009 in Port Shepstone B Court in front of Magistrate Karen Scheepers and he was sentenced to R10 000 or 10 months imprisonment, half of which was suspended for 5 years.
Kenton made front page headlines in 2003 when he was arrested in Pretoria with nearly 250 kg of illegal crayfish and was sentenced to R60 000 or 2 years imprisonment.
Ezemvelo KZN Wildlife reminds the public that the closed season for East Coast Rock Lobster began on 01 November, during which time it is illegal to catch and keep or to possess them.
The Admission of Guilt fines for marine offences have been increased in most courts in KZN, with the fines in respect of East Coast Rock Lobsters being increased to R500 per offence.

AJG/ Media Release No: 2009 - 16
Media:
For further information contact the Media Manager on 033 845 1235; email jeff@kznwildlife.com or fax 033 845 1299.

Sentence in iMfolozi firearm case

2009-11-08T09:22:00.000+02:00

November 4, 2009;

MEDIA RELEASE No: 2009 - 15

SENTENCE IN IMFOLOZI FIRE-ARMS CASE

For Immediate release:

Ezemvelo KZN Wildlife staff report that Mr Mandla Peter Manqele (34) of Sangoyane village, was found guilty of possessing an unlicenced fire-arm in the Ntambanana magistrates court recently and sentenced to 15 years in prison with five years suspended, as well as a fine of R60 000 of which R20 000 was suspended.

The case arose from an incident on 14 February 2009 when a field ranger contacted his senior ranger at about 19.15 one evening to report hearing a shot in the Skwebezana area of the Imfolozi section of the Hluhluwe-Imfolozi Park.
The senior ranger immediately mobilised more field rangers and moved into the area where three men, two of whom were armed, had earlier been seen moving near the fence of the Park.
The EKZNW team set up an ambush on a well known path just outside the game reserve.
About ten minutes after taking up their positions the team heard voices speaking in isiZulu as a group of men approached them.
The EKZNW team identified themselves verbally as conservation officers and instructed the men to stand still, but as the EZKNW team approached the men ran away.

As it was now fully dark and the men were known to be armed, the senior ranger used an illumination flare to light the area.
One suspect was seen to be carrying a rifle on a sling over his shoulder and was arrested.
The other two men managed to evade the field rangers and escaped into the dark.
The EKZNW team recovered various items that had been abandoned by the suspects during the chase - these included another R1 rifle, a rifle bag and 7.62mm ammunition as well as items of clothing.

The suspect was taken to the Ntambanana police station and charged with the illegal possession of a fire-arm.
A later, daylight examination of the area and the routes the suspects had taken both inside and outside the Park revealed further items belonging to them.

“We are very pleased with the outcome of this case,” said Ezemvelo KZN Wildlife CEO Dr Bandile Mkhize.
“The heavy sentence sends a very clear message to those who would plunder our wildlife resources that we will not tolerate poaching under any circumstances and that our staff are prepared to take swift and effective action,” he said.
“Ezemvelo KZN Wildlife has a mandate to protect the wildlife assets of this province and my staff - particularly the Imfolozi field rangers and senior ranger in this case - are to be commended for the dedicated manner in which they perform this often dangerous task,” he added.

AJG/ Media Release No: 2009 - 15
Media:
For further information contact the Media Manager on 033 845 1235; email jeff@kznwildlife.com or fax 033 845 1299.

St Lucia web site

2009-10-09T09:44:00.000+02:00

-------- Original Message --------

Subject:	St Lucia web site.
Date:	Fri, 9 Oct 2009 08:15:45 +0200
From:	Chris Barnes <chris@cjderm.co.za>
To:	<webmaster@forafrica.co.za>

THE WORST SITE I HAVE EVER SEEN……………..

Chris Barnes

Brand Sales Manager

Chrysler Jeep Dodge

East Rand

16 Cynthia Road,

Bardene Ext 18

Boksburg.

Tel : 011 826 6376

Fax : 011 826 7316

E-Mail : chris@cjderm.co.za

WHALE UPDATES and interesting titbits

2009-09-26T18:11:00.001+02:00

Dear All

Whale Watching has been spectacular this season, with the regular operational hazards in-between driving US crazy, but something we handle without you even knowing we went through those stresses.

We’ve been blessed with regular sightings of mother-calf pairs, extra Southern Right bonus visits overall Humpbacks behaving very well for memories that will last a lifetime!

Keep on sending those clientele – and t.h.a.n.x.x.x. for your continued support!

Remember whale watching STARTS beginning of JUNE and carries until 1^st/2^nd week in DECEMBER.

Don’t always let overcast conditions outside put your client off, don’t tell your clients we’re not operating due to what what what what, please leave the cancellations-due-to-rough-seas-decision for us to make, we will know when conditions are unsafe to operate and will then cancel.

WHY ARE CETACEANS BORN TAIL FIRST?

So they don’t drown! The birth of a young whale or dolphin takes place underwater, of course, and can last a few hours. If it was born head first the calf would be unable to breathe until it was free from it’s mother and may drown.

ARE WHALES BORN IN NURSERIES?

Sometimes. A number of whales, including the southern right whale, use sheltered bays and other protected areas along the coast as nurseries where they can safely give birth to and care for their calves. Some of the favorite nurseries of the southern right whale include sheltered areas between False Bay and Algoa Bay in South Africa, in the Great Australian Bight and also off Warrnambool in Australia.

CAN WHALES HAVE TWINS?

YES! In fact, they can even have triplets, but this is very rare and it is highly unlikely that all the calves will survive. Most whales and dolphins carry their unborn calf for about a year, and produce only one calf every two to three years. Female killer whales and pilot whales give birth to only four to six calves in a life-time, and stop breeding when they get older. This is rather unusual as most other whales breed throughout their adult life.

WHALE BEHAVIOUR AT CAPE VIDAL –

Some of you and your guests observed whales just behind the backline at Cape Vidal last week, the tail last week up in the air, and staying like that for a looooong time, just lying deadstill – we did have some request about WHAT this whale was doing - ???? – it’s called SAILING – at times whales position themselves head down in the water with their tail flukes being exposed above the surface. This could be a form of display using the tail as a sail, but it might also be a form of thermoregulation, allowing heat to dissipate through the tail.

Okeeeeeeeeee – enough for one day – I’ll give more interesting info next week –

KEEP IN TOUCH!

WARM REGARDS
RIETTE

advantage@zululink.co.za

035 5901259

TourNet KZN - Ezemvelo-KZN Wildlife - your chance to speak out

2009-09-26T10:45:00.001+02:00

Blank

From: ug4balu@durbs.com [ ug4balu@durbs.com] On Behalf Of Ula Groos
Sent: 22 September 2009 04:57 PM
To: TourNet KZN
Subject: TourNet KZN - Ezemvelo-KZN Wildlife - your chance to speak out

Hello Members of KZNTGA-e

Could you please forward to me – by latest 14^th October 2009 - any comments / queries / complaints or suggestions related to Ezemvelo-KZN Wildlife to enable Ian Porter and Gladman Buthelezi to investigate and revert with the answer at the next Provincial Meeting that takes place on October 28^th.

Looking forward to many replies.

Kind regards

Ula

_______________________________________

ULA GROOS
ug4balu@durbs.com
Chairperson KZN Tourist Guides Association eThekwini

Greater St. Lucia Wetlands Park

Crazy Festive Season after many years of drought

St Lucia Estuary - Water Update

Another Day in the life of - Deiric Walsh

St Lucia Boat CruiseiSimangaliso Wetlands Park

Hippo viewing with Deirick

Ndiza Lodge and Self Catering Cabanas St. Lucia - Ndiza Self ... www.ndizalodge.co.za/ - Cached

Deep Sea fishing going green?

Advantage (St Lucia Tours and Charters)035 5901259

Maverick(Johantjie) N/a on website or google???

Wave Dancer(Barend) 084 628 1162

Asterix(Maans) 035 590 1229 / 082 463 5864

WHALE WATCHING SPECIAL FOR SEPTEMBER

Another day in the life of - Deiric Welsh (Tourguide, Singer and song writer)

St Lucia Ladies on Wellness - 08 August 2011

WWWHALE WWWATCHING KWAZULU NATAL

Aerial photo St Lucia

Alien clearing

The St Lucia are anxiously awaiting the mouth to open

Happy Hippo Hunting? Injured Baby ....

A Day in the life ... Tour Guide

iMfolozi River flowing strong

St. Lucia quo vadis?

Curling Swirling sticky mud towards St Lucia Estuary

The St Lucia Estuary Mouth - Dr Taylor Speaks out.

St. Lucia Wetlands Pre Holiday Prices

iSimangaliso communication – Signage in iSimangaliso

Public Enemy No1 - Wetland Park Authority

iSimangaliso Disicions that sucks Big Time...!!!

under threat from "historic and current manipulation"

No Signs St. Lucia Wetlands just a Mistake?

Stake Holders Meeting Gone Wrong - iSimangaliso Wetlands Park

Gripen and Hawk jet fighters to participate in the annual Exercise

Email and mobile marketing made easy at GraphicMail. Try it free!

Media Release - Nedbank opened the first wind powered branch in Du Noon, Western Cape

IMfolozi current conditions

FW: Eskom Outages Notification

Imfolozi current conditions

St Lucia Estuary Mouth Current Conditions

Imfolozi River current condition

St. Lucia Local Kayak Fishing Success Story

St Lucia Estuary ... People Fishing again!

liMfolozi River Current Condition

Village Corner Service Station

Salon Nelique

St Lucia Yesterday, Today and Tomorow

IMfolozi River current conditions

iMfolozi River current condition

iMfolozi Current Conditions

Advantage News 18 September 2010

Current conditions iMfolozi River

Fwd: Bird Photos

Winter has it own charms ...

iSimangaliso WHALE WATCHING 2010

Free Inclusion

Lodge Afriquè - Guest House

Kwêla Rapport Town of the Year Award.

HUMPBACK WHALE SIGHTINGS in St Lucia

StLuciaOrgZa - ebook vol1

Kwalucia Private Safari Retreat

St Lucia Break away Weekend - Mangos Guest House

Cape Vidal Gate Times and Fees

St. Lucia Wilds - Self Catering Accommodation

Cape Vidal Road Closure??

Goodmorning St Lucia

Vervet Monkexs

The iMfolozi River

St Lucia Honeymoon Bend

St Lucia Mouth area

Nile Crocodile St Lucia Estuary

Estuary Boat Cruise

St Lucia Estuary Current Conditions

Fishing Weekend 30/04/2010 - 03/05/2010

St Lucia Water Levels

No Low Flying over the wetlands

Alternative route

Sunset at St Lucia Estuary

iMfolozi River flowing

Wet conditions in Wetland Park catchment

Dorethea as told by Petrus Viviers (use the red and white X)

St Lucia Boat Cruise
iSimangaliso Wetlands Park

Ndiza Lodge and Self Catering Cabanas St. Lucia - Ndiza Self ...
www.ndizalodge.co.za/ - Cached