PLETTENBERG BAY NEWS - Plett's Shark Spotters programme has been given a R1,127m lifeline by the Bitou Municipality and will be on duty at vantage points during the coming holiday period.
The additional grant was agreed on at a special council meeting held on Friday 21 November. The funds will be included in the adjustment budget in February.
Shark Spotters Plett manager Melissa Nel thanked the municipality for supporting Plett Shark Spotters and ensuring the safety of beachgoers in Plett over the festive season. "We will be fully operational across five beaches in Plett for the season from 07:00 to 19:00."
Nel said recently there have been a number of sightings of bronze whaler sharks in the bay.
Bitou Mayor Jessica Kamkam, who seconded the item in Council, said the additional funding has been allocated to Shark Spotters. In terms of a memorandum of agreement running to July next year, the Shark Spotters receive an R800 000 grant from the municipality.
Safety
"This decision strengthens Plettenberg Bay's position as a leading coastal tourism destination while ensuring that the people who call this municipality home have a safe holiday season. While we are proud to attract thousands of visitors each summer, it is essential to remember that Plett is not only a holiday destination but also a community. This festive season, many local families will also have the chance to enjoy our beaches, and they deserve to do so safely," said Kamkam.
"Our Constitution protects the right to life, the right to dignity, and the right to freedom and security of every person. It further requires the State to respect, protect, promote and fulfil these rights. As a municipality, we therefore have a constitutional responsibility to take reasonable steps that ensure public safety and protect lives on our coastline."
Commitment
Kamkam said the deployment of trained lifeguards, together with the enhanced presence of Shark Spotters, provides an essential layer of security for thousands of beachgoers expected this season.
"This initiative reinforces our commitment to safeguarding both residents and visitors, while preserving Plett's hard-earned reputation for world-class Blue Flag beaches. We remain committed to ensuring that everyone can enjoy our coastline responsibly, safely and with peace of mind."
Fundraiser
This year's Surfers Ball will be raising funds for Plett Shark Spotters again, alongside Adopt a Surfer! "The Surfers Ball is a 'party with a purpose', where locals get to dance barefoot on Bikini Beach, thanks to the amazing support from Plett Rage," said Nel. "It all happens on Friday 5 December, with exciting bands, DJs, great food, and fun for the whole family."
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