Grave at waterfall considered a heritage site, vandalised

The grave site of one of the first European women to settle in the Lowveld, Maria Shires, was vandalised about three weeks ago.

This resulted in the temporary closure of the Maria Shires Waterfall, managed by the South African Forestry Company Limited (Safcol).

Safcol’s tourism manager, Chris de Beer, said they first became aware of the vandalism around September 17 when people from Pilgrim’s Rest brought it to their attention.

“At this stage the circumstances surrounding the vandalism are all speculation. The fact is, we need to protect the grave site as a South Africa heritage site.

ALSO READ: Here’s how to get your vaccine certificate

“In the meantime the waterfall will remain closed until we have found a way to properly protect it. People can still obtain permits to access the area, maybe for religious reasons and so on, but it is closed to the general public for the time being.”

The chairperson of Mpumalanga Heritage, Duncan Ballantyne, shared his concern about this instance of vandalism and said this place is not only a cultural beacon, but also an important tourist attraction.

Nature and hiking enthusiasts were also reminded that the Merry Pebbles section of the Loerie Day Trail (also a Safcol- managed site) is closed.

WATCH : Youtube #OwnYourLife playlist

This is not a new development, but a reminder, said De Beer.

“It is for people’s personal safety. Where the trail starts at Bridal Veil, one parks one’s car and pays, so we know who is there. It just gives us more control.

“People should also take care not to go walking on their own. And always tell someone where you are going.”

Do you have more information about the story?

Please send us an email to editorial@lowvelder.co.za.

For free breaking and community news, visit Lowvelder’s website: Lowvelder

For more news and interesting articles, like Lowvelder on Facebook, follow us on Twitter or Instagram