– Chris Geldenhuys, Convenor

For the third time in a row the Pringle Bay Hack Group gathered in the Point area, again for the Rooikrantz and Australian Myrtle which were still a serious threat in that area. On 30 October 2016 we hacked the verges of Hangklip Road, Point Road, Albatross Road and Gull Road. Most of the Rooikrantz in the Point area has now been removed and the residents were requested to keep a hand on the matter.

The following hackers performed the hack on 30 October: John Whitehead, Edward Silberbauer, Karen and Louw Toerien, Ilse and Mike Meyer, Tom Dreyer, Andy James, Niel and Penny Berens, Japie Krige, Frik Potgieter, Charles Hector, Mike Begley, Ulli Niemand, Marita Grobbelaar, together with Chris Geldenhuys. The hack group welcomed Robert and Sandy Middleton and Nic Louw as new members to the group. They climb in with a lot of enthusiasm and energy, we hope to see them quite regularly!

A special word of thanks for the contribution and support provided by the members of the Betty’s Bay Hack to the Pringle Bay Hack. Their efforts and encouragement are, as always, greatly appreciated.

Connie provided the ever necessary mid-morning refreshments in the absence of Dave and Lena, who are on holiday! Thanks Connie and Karen for all the arrangements! Again a special word of thanks go to Peter and Joyce of the Mini Mark for the generous donation towards the tea and sandwiches for the Hack Group, it was as always greatly appreciated by all.

The next monthly hack will be on Sunday 27 November 2016. As usual we will meet on the pavement opposite Drosters Centre, in Central Avenue, Pringle Bay, at 08:30 whereafter we will proceed to the hack site. The hack ends at 11:30. Everyone who would like to help rid Pringle Bay of alien vegetation is welcome. Hacking tools are provided. Contact Chris at (028) 273 8588, or just turn up at the meeting point.

A special note!

On 5 October, at a glitzy Annual Night of Achievers Awards ceremony, the Overstrand Executive Mayor, Rudolph Smith, honoured achievers in the Overstrand who make a difference in their communities. The event recognises the work of individuals who have performed outstanding service. Awards include the Mayoral Trophy for Environmental Conservation, the Woman/Women of the Year Award and the Awards for Achievers of Excellence.

CHRIS GELDENHUYS, convenor of the Pringle Bay Hack Group, was the overall winner and walked away with the coveted floating trophy. Chris was nominated for his exceptional voluntary work and commendable contribution towards dune reformation and environmental conservation in Pringle Bay. When given the opportunity to say a few words, he dedicated the award to his whole team. Congratulations Chris!