A dismayed Gie came across the drunken trail of destruction on Friday, when he took a group of Outeniqua Primary school children and their teacher (Landsdiens group) to the island. He intended to show them the progress made at creating a lush oasis of indigenous vegetation. He had explained how with the help of various groups of enthusiastic volunteers, the black wattle forest was systematically eradicated over the years. Instead the group were shocked to find a heap of empty, broken beer bottles, evidence of a frenzied and amoral gathering.
Gie, who is known for his environmental activities, was instrumental in introducing stricter access control and security at the Garden Route dam in 2005, after residents were being continuously targeted by criminals. The George Herald carried several stories on the group’s campaign for a safe recreational area where the town’s citizens go without fear for their lives.
Six years ago he approached the then mayor, and appealed to him to appoint a security company. For years residents had borne the brunt of vicious attacks and muggings - which had left the town in fear of ever using this natural asset.
After forming GARDAG the quest to reclaim this beauty spot for nature lovers began in earnest. Over the years, school groups and enthusiasts partook in the eradication of alien vegetation, and planting up the island. "This is one of the many signs local signage company Leading Edge donated but has now been destroyed by vandals on the island," said Gie. GARDAG, sent photos showing the damage to Barend Nelson, George's Safety and Security Chief and George Town Councillor Iona Kritzinger, who holds the political portfolio for Safety and Security. Cllr Gert Niehaus who is the councillor for ward 18 in which the Garden Route Dam is situated, was also urged to step-up security.
"At present access control has been allowed to lapse. Security guards no longer take-down vehicle registration numbers." He feels cars should be searched before entering the area. The town’s drinking water source is hardly the place were drunken parties should be held and glass bottles strewn about.
A fire was started by the revellers which thankfully did not spread otherwise the picnic benches and all the plants on the island would have been obliterated.
"Their response is keenly being awaited," said Gie in conclusion.
*When approached for comment, Cllr Kritzinger said measures to tighten security are due to be introduced. An item was placed on the town council agenda to this effect.
The signboard before it was destroyed.
A once proud signage board announcing community support lies trashed by vandals.
ARTICLE: PAULINE LOURENS, GEORGE HERALD JOURNALIST
