Conservation is more than a calling for Tessa Duane, it is born from decades of family history on the North Coast.

Succeeding Di Jones as Dolphin Coast Conservancy chairperson, Tessa has big shoes to fill.

But with a BSc Honours degree in ecology, extensive international conservation experience and a rock-solid connection to the community spanning about 40 years, she is well equipped for the role.

Tessa’s family has owned a Salt Rock beach cottage since the 1980s, while her husband Graham’s great-grandfather, Samuel Knox, was among the first people to buy beachfront property in Chaka’s Rock. Back then, the coastline was still largely untouched. There was no electricity and the property received its water from a natural spring.

The family’s conservation connection also runs deep, with Graham’s father, Keith, serving as the first chairperson of the Dolphin Coast Conservancy (DCC).

From protecting biodiversity and monitoring property developments to investigating environmental incidents such as the recent mass fish kill in the Umhlali River, the DCC acts as a voice for the environment.

Building on the work done by her predecessors, Tessa wants to strengthen the DCC’s public profile, including through a greater social media presence.

A firm believer in collaboration, she also wants to build stronger relationships with neighbouring conservancies and ratepayers’ associations.

Another initiative close to her heart is encouraging the planting of indigenous food plants for monkeys, with the aim of reducing conflict between people and wildlife. Tessa believes volunteering can empower communities and encourages residents to get involved in causes they care about rather than simply complain.

“I love giving back to the area I love and fighting to keep it great for ourselves and future generations,” she said.

Tessa has previously volunteered with Scripture Union in KwaDukuza, helped establish vegetable gardens at local crèches, co-ran entry-level short courses in the construction industry and rescued countless dogs in distress. At home, Tessa and Graham share their Esenembe Road farmhouse with their three children, four dogs, four cats, 30 chickens and a pet pig named Hamish.