Hi again,
Herewith, some snippets from various sources.
I appeal to you to send me items to distribute to our members for the Cleft Stick, the Game Ranger magazine and to be posted on the web site. These are your magazines and website, so ensure it gets the news that you would like to see in it.
Please let me have any changes to your physical address, phone no. or e-mail address to keep the database up to date. Remember this is the address we will send your Game Ranger Magazine to.
Thanks to all of you who have made the effort. Please will any of you who know of members who do not get this “electric” Cleft~Stick, & have access to e-mail, pass their address along to me.
Don Yunnie
7 Chalet Drive, Hilton, 3245, South Africa Local Tel & Fax (033) 343 1534
Int. Tel & Fax (+2733) 343 1534 cell 082 377 7562, E-mail dyunnie@xsinet.co.za
If you do not wish to receive this e-mail newsletter please send a blank e-mail to me at the above address with the word “Unsubscribe” as the message heading.
Please feel free to write to express your views on the content or the subject of any of the articles in this magazine – to the address above.
--- MEDIA RELEASE:Anti-poaching operation
Authorities confiscated 10 boats and a rubber duck in an anti-poaching operation in the Table Mountain National Park yesterday, the Department of Environmental Affairs said. Spokesman Carol Moses said the operation was carried out by officials from her department, the police and SANParks. The boats, hidden on the park's coastline mostly in the Hout Bay area, were believed to be used in the poaching of crayfish. The confiscation of the rubber duck comes after officials caught three perlemoen poaching suspects off Robben Island last week. – Sapa
STRAIGHT SLAUGHTER…
Wildlife traffickers are laundering hunting permits to smuggle rhinoceros horns to the Far East for use in medicinal potions.
Conservationists say the illicit trade is linked to organised criminal syndicates and has seen hundreds of horns smuggled out of South Africa in recent years. It has caused an increase in rhino-poaching incidents, leading to renewed concerns about the survival of the species.
The racket involves private game farms, mostly in Limpopo and North West, which buy rhinos on auction, usually from national or provincial parks. They get hunting permits from provincial conservation authorities, who do not check whether the hunts actually occur. Often there is no hunt and the permits are used to launder illegally obtained horn. In other instances the hunt serves as a smokescreen, used to send horn overseas that would otherwise be banned in terms of an international agreement under the Convention for International Trade in Endangered Species (Cites).
"This skullduggery is the new way to make a quick buck in the wildlife industry. It's straight bloody slaughter for rhino horn, with no ethics involved," said a veteran rhino expert who asked not to be identified. Hunters involved in "canned" lion hunting, who were feeling the heat because of a recent government clampdown, openly admitted they had turned to the rhino ruse, he said.
African rhino horn sells for about R100 000 a kilogram on the black market in countries such as China, South Korea, Taiwan and Thailand, where it is ground into powders used to treat fever, flu and convulsions. The average horn weighs about 6kg or 7kg.
Michael Knight, chairperson of the Rhino Management Group, which represents conservation agencies, private owners and provincial agencies, said illegal traders are exploiting a gap in the permit system. About 3 000 white rhino are being kept on private land in South Africa, he said. "Conservation organisations are under pressure and don't always have the ability to monitor what's happening on private farms or to prevent poaching."
The smugglers do not distinguish between white rhino, which are listed as threatened, and black rhino, listed as critically endangered, Knight said.
At a meeting of the International Union for Conservation of Nature Species Survival Commission in Tanzania in June, concerns were raised about the number of live rhino being exported from South Africa to China. About 100 white and eight black rhino were reportedly exported in the past year, supposedly for educational purposes at zoos. "It appears China will start farming rhino soon, which will serve to increase the demand for horn," Knight said.
At least 40 000 rhino were poached for their horns between 1970 and 1987 and the species hovered on the brink of extinction, leading to the international ban on trade in horn. Populations have since stabilised -- there are about 13 500 white rhino and 1 300 black rhino in South Africa now -- but they are still listed as protected species by Cites.
The Department of Environmental Affairs and Tourism was to announce a national moratorium on trade in individual rhino horns and hunting trophies last Friday because of concerns about the new illicit trade. According to the department's figures, 205 rhino hunting permits were issued in 2006, but it could not say how many of these were used. More recent figures were not available.
During his budget vote speech in June, Minister Marthinus van Schalkwyk mentioned there had been "a dramatic increase in the illegal trade of rhino horn and in the hunting of white rhinos in the past two years". "This indiscriminate illegal trade in rhino is directly linked to organised crime and the fact that approximately 27 white rhino were poached in the Kruger National Park during the past two years, as well as a definite increase in incidents in other parts of the country," Van Schalkwyk said.
Provincial authorities have undertaken to implement the moratorium until a policy or revised regulations are in place to stem the scam.
Today is the last time I will be writing to you from our lovely tented camp in the Maputo Elephant Reserve. Our belongings are packed, awaiting collection tomorrow. There’s a mixture of sadness and excitement as we leave an area we have grown to love, to move on to new and exciting pastures.
The good news is that Derek has been appointed Project Manager of the Limpopo National Park in Mozambique, the flagship Transfrontier Conservation Park which adjoins Kruger National Park. Peace Parks Foundation is the implementing agent and has transferred Derek there on promotion to implement the development and management of the park for the next three and a half years. It is a massive 1 million hectares in size, which linked to Kruger’s 2.2 million hectares makes it a huge ecological unit. Staff number about 150.
Fortunately the Limpopo National Park receives massive funding from the German Development Bank (KfW) and the French Development Bank (AfD) as well as the World Bank so having all these funds at his disposal will allow him to produce the results required and to see tangible strides forward. The park lies adjacent to the northern half of Kruger, Letaba area to Pafuri in the north. The headquarters and where we will live is at Massingir about 5 km north of the little village and very large dam (17,000ha) by the same name. This about 4 and a bit hour’s drive north of Maputo, so we will live in an even more remote spot. Phalaborwa is our nearest RSA town and is 4 hours away across our park and Kruger. Durban is about twelve hours drive away so needless to say this will now become a trip only every second or third month.
For those of you who didn’t “rough it” with us in our tented camp, I have good news for you. The newly constructed headquarters provides Derek with a shiny new office and us with a lovely, fully furnished home, with a guest room! Better still we have cell phone communication in the house so will keep in touch again without the major hassles we’ve had to date. We will also have internet access, so will be able to bend your eyes and ears again. There is even a micro aircraft called a Bamtam that Derek will learn to fly to have a bird’s eye view of the park. It has large wings, seats two and is powered by what looks like a big lawn mower engine and makes the same feeble noise! I won’t be sitting in the co pilot’s seat!
Derek will head north to Limpopo to take up his new position on 7th September.
The staff and locals are sad to see “Mr. Derriky” go. Now that they have overcome their initial fear of him, he has won over their hearts and they love and trust him. Not only has he been their Technical Advisor but also Mr. Fixit, the mobile ATM (for often non repaid loans) the psychologist, the peacemaker, disciplinarian, taxi service, towing - you name it, he has fulfilled the role.
Our stay here has not been without its challenges and frustrations but there have been lots of laughs and a whole lot of fun. Derek has now “graded “the way for the new incumbent whoever that might be. Poor guy won’t know what’s hit him but it will be a real test of his character.
I read this somewhere and loved it.
“Life is like a wild tiger, you can either lie down or let it lay its paw on your head, or sit on its back and ride it.”
Needless to say I am sitting astride the tiger ---ready to head north to Limpopo Park and see what else life’s journey has to offer us.
Take care, see you soon. Thanks for the lovely emails. Apologies for not always replying, communications have been a real problem. We love hearing your news . Please forward this letter to anyone who may be interested in knowing I’m alive and kicking!
Love Moira
This year sees theKruger National Park celebrate its 110th birthday!
Celebrate this event by investing in one of the last sets of “The Kruger National Park – A History” (1st Edition) by Dr Salomon Joubert (Head of Kruger National Park 1987 – 1994).
“A life's work by Dr Salomon Joubert culminates in arguably the most complete and insightful book ever written on the history of the Kruger Park. It will fascinate and enthrall readers, from academics through conservation professionals to Kruger-lovers of all ages. This full- colour, three volume set of books incorporates hundreds of maps, tables, photographs and previously unpublished wildlife art by well-known artist, Penny Noall. Books that will stimulate your mind, capture your heart, and reinforce your love of the Grande Dame of all national parks, the Kruger.”
The books were compiled with the full support of SANParks, and Dr David Mabunda (Chief Executive of SANParks), in particular, who penned the foreword. It took Dr Joubert over 22 years to amass an incredibly detailed archive of all the activities in Kruger that required management decision-taking processes. It is an exceptionally accurate compilation of data relating to every aspect of Kruger life from the ants and the aardvarks, through lions and leopards, Marula and Monkey-orange, parasitic disease and culling; from roads and rest camps to dams, waterholes, solar energy and diesel pumps, through fish ladders, fences, enclosures and bomas, reintroductions and migrations. The books are divided into 6 eras covering the Pre-history and Formative years of the park, through the various management eras, ending in 1994, which was the end of Dr Joubert’s era. Each era covers: Administration & Organisation, Land & Boundaries, Archaeology & History, Meteorology, Water Resources& Rivers, Geology & Soils, Flora, Fauna, Ecological Philosophy & Zoning, Tourism and Infrastructure & Services. The books are designed in this way so that they can be read either in chronological order, or by subject through the eras.
These books have received an overwhelmingly positive response from those who have purchased sets already, be they academics, conservationists or Kruger enthusiasts. We have fewer than 40 De Luxe Edition sets remaining out of the original 2,000 sets printed. Up until now these have been sold exclusively via the publishers and a limited number of small bookshops. They make a valuable addition to any library (personal or organisational) or as a gift to anyone interested in the Kruger National Park, especially given that the Kruger celebrates its 110th birthday this year
The cost of the De Luxe Edition is R1,280 a set, including VAT and courier delivery or postage within South Africa. I invite you to either visit our website at www.krugerhistory.co.za or www.highbranching.co.za or contact us directly for further information, or to place an order.
If you have already purchased a set (or multiple sets) of the books, we remain grateful for your support and trust that you will continue to enjoy them!
Kind Regards
Lara Klement
Marketing Manager, High Branching
Contact Details
Tel: +27 (0)11 483 1294, Fax: +27 (0)86 518 5624, E-mail: admin@krugerhistory.co.za
The second edition of A Greater Share of Honouris available. More colour photos, some maps and illustrations. Improved cover etc. Please fwd to other interested parties.
From: John Dovey
To: JDPUB@googlegroups.com
Sent: Sunday, July 20, 2008 6:10 PM
Subject: [JDPUB: 72] A Greater Share of Honour (2nd Edition) by Major Jack Greeff HC, PMM, MMM
A Greater Share of Honour (2nd Edition) by Major Jack Greeff HC, PMM, MMM has just been published by Just Done Productions - Publishing. Price: R280.00
Jack Greeff's story gives a unique glimpse into the life and times of one of the very few elite warriors that we came to know as "recces". These soldiers, correctly known as 'Special Forces Operators', were truly special. Their selection was tough (arguably the toughest in the world) with a tiny percentage of those who applied making the grade. Their training was even tougher, culminating in an actual operation against the enemy so that those who were eventually able to wear the Compass Rose and Operator's badge knew that all others who did so had been through the same gruelling selection and training.
Jack was already an accomplished soldier when he first attempted selection. He passed on his second attempt and finally joined this elite brotherhood. His story as related in this book chronicles the many operations in which he participated; from the start of his career in Operation Savannah through to the almost catastrophic battle at Eheki and the months spent as "D Squadron Rhodesian SAS". It also describes various strategic operations such as Amazone, Kerslig and Katiso. A Greater Share of Honour also depicts some of the personal moments between these men - their bravery, their angst and even sense of humour.
As a young Staff Sergeant in the Recces, Jack Greeff became one of the most decorated soldiers in the SADF. Leading two-man reconnaissance patrols deep into enemy held territories and operating under the noses of the enemy, they collected vital strategic information on enemy movements and installations. Using the information gathered, he led raiding parties to the targets to execute what were probably the biggest and most daring acts of sabotage in recent military history.
The author also tells in detail how men, both black and white, trained together and fought a common enemy to create one of the most respected Special Forces units of its time.
By the time he retired as a Major, Jack Greeff was the recipient of the Honoris Crux for valour, the Pro Meritas Medal and the Military Merit Medal.
Positions available
Marine and Coastal Management is looking for two birders to do serious fieldwork on albtrosses, penguins, etc, on Marion Island under harsh conditions
Position: Seabird fieldworkers Organisation: MCM Location: Marion Island
Closing date: 30 September 2008 Contact Persons: Ms Upfold / Ms Swart
Seabird fieldworkers, Marion Island, Contract positions (13 months) Branch Marine and Coastal Management (Department of Environmental Affairs and Tourism) is seeking two seabird fieldworkers who will be employed under contract for a period of about 14 months, commencing 1 March 2009. The appointments will be to conduct field work on seabirds at Marion Island, South African territory in the southwest Indian Ocean.
Field workers will be taken to Marion Island by one of the Department's ships, left at the island for one year and returned to Cape Town on the following take-over voyage. The officers appointed will conduct
fieldwork on seabirds. Information gathered is used to contribute to two international treaties to which South Africa is a party, as well as to assess the conservation status of seabirds at Marion Island and factors affecting that status. Overwintering teams at Marion Island comprise a small number of staff (10-20 persons) and it is necessary that applicants are able to work in a small team. The island is at a
sub-Antarctic latitude, where weather conditions can be cold. It is necessary that officers are prepared to work in a harsh environment.
Remuneration will depend on experience and qualifications and will be in accordance with scales adopted by the Department. Persons interested in applying for the position should send a CV to Ms Leshia Upfold lupfold@deat.gov.za before 30 September 2008, with a copy to Ms Lieze Swart at lswart@deat.gov.za. If no acknowledgment of the application has been received within five working days of submission, please call Ms Upfold at 082 447 9302 or Ms Swart at 021 4023193 Applicants must have Matric and preference will be given to those able to demonstrate an interest in and experience with wildlife management and conservation, particularly as it relates to birds. The appointees should have a working knowledge of MS Word and MS Excel and be capable of collating and summarizing field information.
Professor Les Underhill
Director: Animal Demography Unit http://www.adu.org.za
Vice-President: International Ornithological Committee
Department of Zoology, University of Cape Town, Rondebosch, South Africa
Phone +27 21 650 3227 Cell 072 062 1140 Fax 021 650 3434
---
Dalton Private Reserve
I manage a property in the Estcourt area and we have a position going for a wildlife manager. I want to interview as many candidates as possible and thought that I might advertise the position in your regular newsletter.
Dalton Private Reserve is a 3000ha property situated on the Bushman's river between Estcourt and Mooi River in KwaZulu-Natal. Managed by a highly motivated team, this project in development encompasses construction, hospitality, wildlife, community, and land management. The Dalton Private Reserve has entered into a co-management agreement with Ezemvelo KZN Wildlife and is expected to be proclaimed a contract nature reserve under the Stewardship programme and national legislation. The following position has become available at Dalton Private Reserve.
Assistant Reserve Manager
Applications are invited for the position of Asst. Reserve Manager from individuals with experience and qualifications in land and wildlife management.
The position will involve the implementation of wildlife and veld management programmes developed in conjunction with consultants, Trustees and conservation partner EKZNW. Particular areas of involvement will be wildlife protection and security, field ranger training, alien plant control and erosion rehabilitation. Other duties will include the maintenance of infrastructure and equipment. Experience in labour management and good communication skills are essential; fluency in English and Zulu are requirements.
The position requires a self-motivated individual with a strong work ethic, capable of responding with initiative to the wide-ranging challenges of a busy conservation project. Candidates should be physically fit and suitably experienced to command the respect of and instil discipline in a complement of field rangers. The successful applicant will be able to structure the use of their own time effectively, manage a large workforce with creativity and develop and implement management strategies.
The position is live-in and includes accommodation.
Please email CV's and a covering letter for the attention of Joe Dawson to daltontrust01@telkomsa.net with the job title contained in the subject heading
Kind regards,
Joe
--- I have a vacancy available and I was wondering if you could advertise it on the Cleft stick Please
Urgent Vacancy for Field guide at an up market 3000ha Private game reserve in KZN:
Requirements: Min: FGASA level 1, PDP, and first aid certificate.
Some experience required.
Position is live-in, + 3 meals a day.
Should you be interested Please e-mail your CV with pict and refrences to : Elize at elizevh@yahoo.com
Tailpiece
THE LAWS OF ULTIMATE REALITY
Law of Mechanical Repair
After your hands become coated with grease, your nose will begin to itch and you'll have to pee.
Law of Gravity
Any tool, when dropped, will roll to the least accessible corner.
Law of Probability
The probability of being watched is directly proportional to the stupidity of your act.
Law of Random Numbers
If you dial a wrong number, you never get a busy signal and someone always answers.
Law of the Alibi>BR> If you tell the boss you were late for work because you had a flat tire, the very next morning you will have a flat tire.
Variation Law
If you change lines (or traffic lanes), the one you were in will always move faster than the one you are in now (works every time).
Law of the Bath
When the body is fully immersed in water, the telephone rings.
Law of Close Encounters
The probability of meeting someone you know increases dramatically when you are with someone you don't want to be seen with.
Law of the Result
When you try to prove to someone that a machine won't work, it will.
Law of Biomechanics
The severity of the itch is inversely proportional to the reach.
Law of the Theatre
At any event, the people whose seats are furthest from the aisle arrive last.
The Starbucks Law
As soon as you sit down to a cup of hot coffee, your boss will ask you to do something which will last until the coffee is cold.
Murphy's Law of Lockers
If there are only two people in a locker room, they will have adjacent lockers.
Law of Physical Surfaces
The chances of an open-faced jelly sandwich landing face down on a floor covering are directly correlated to the newness and cost of the carpet/rug.
Law of Logical Argument
Anything is possible if you don't know what you are talking about.
Brown's Law of Physical Appearance
If the shoe fits, it's ugly.
Wilson's Law of Commercial Marketing Strategy
As soon as you find a product that you really like, they will stop making it.
Doctors' Law
If you don't feel well, make an appointment to go to the doctor, by the time you get there you'll feel better. Don't make an appointment and you'll stay sick.