She was mauled by a bull during a research campaign in the Shanga River in the Shingwedzi Camp area led by her husband, Dr Freek Venter (71). Freek worked in the KNP for 39 years before he retired and is a celebrated researcher and geologist. Rinza’s life was saved when a ranger that accompanied the group, George Maluleke, shot the hippo at short distance, forcing it to let go of her. A medical officer rushed to the scene to treat her.

Also read: Hippo kills KNP employee

She was airlifted by a Sanparks helicopter to Tzaneen Mediclinic where she is receiving treatment. In a WhatsApp message to friends and family of the Venter family, their eldest daughter, Fransie, reported that Rinza is doing well and went to theatre again this week to clean her wounds. “She is also receiving physiotherapy and has taken her first walk with assistance. She said Freek is at home and is also doing well despite the ordeal they went through.

Spokesperson for Sanparks, Isaac Phaahla, confirmed the incident to the Herald.“The incident is a subject of investigation which limits us in the kind of information we can share without compromising the process. “We are in touch with the family, and Rinza is responding very well to treatment, fortunately she did not suffer any fractures and her injuries are not life threatening. It is going to be a long recovery journey, but we wish her all the best,” he said.