GEORGE NEWS - CapeNature has warned that unattended burning candles along a mountain trail near George pose a serious wildfire risk, threatening surrounding communities and sensitive fynbos vegetation still recovering from the devastating 2018 fires.

The warning follows another incident reported to George Herald on 21 October, when some burning candles were again discovered along the same route near George’s Sputnik radio tower.

In an earlier article published on 27 August, George Herald reported how some runners had discovered burning candles, scorched rock and smouldering vegetation along the trail. They extinguished the candles.

Sensitive vegetation at risk

CapeNature’s spokesperson, Petro van Rhyn, said the area is classified as an ecologically sensitive area because of young fynbos recovering from the 2018 George wildfire.

“For optimal ecological recovery, fynbos ecosystems should ideally reach an age of between 12 and 15 years before being exposed to another fire event.”

Premature burning could disrupt natural regeneration, while a wildfire could spread rapidly through the mountains, threatening George and surrounding properties.

The area near George’s Sputnik radio tower, where some unattended burning candles have repeatedly been discovered, raises concerns about veld fires and damage to sensitive fynbos vegetation.
Photo: Marguerite van Ginkel

Engagement with spiritual groups

According to CapeNature, evidence suggests that some individuals are entering the reserve without authorisation and leaving candles as part of cultural or spiritual practices.

While recognising the importance of these practices, CapeNature emphasised that unmanaged access and open flames present significant risks.

Van Rhyn said CapeNature has raised concerns through its Protected Area Advisory Committee, on which community leaders and stakeholders are represented.

However, those responsible have not been specifically identified through community outreach programmes.

CapeNature intends to engage directly with identified spiritual groups to understand their needs and explore safer alternatives.

Increased patrols and awareness

Reserve management said it would increase patrols and monitoring along the affected trail and install signage with reporting information.

CapeNature’s ongoing Fire Awareness Campaign has reached schools in Blanco, Thembalethu, Parkdene, Ruiterbos and Pacaltsdorp, as well as community structures such as the George Initiation Forum.

Radio interviews are also planned to promote fire safety and environmental responsibility.

A map showing the area where the candles were found. The Outeniqua Pass is a public road that cuts through the Outeniqua World Heritage Site and Nature Reserve, giving access to the area of concern. Photo: Supplied

What should the public do?

CapeNature urges anyone encountering unattended burning candles or other potential fire hazards to extinguish them immediately, provided it is safe, and report the incident.

Incidents can be reported during office hours (07:30 to 16:00) on 087 087 4151, or after hours on 081 835 8032 or 082 899 6862.

Prompt reporting could prevent wildfires and protect nearby communities and sensitive natural environments.

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