Joburg mermaids celebrated National Merday

If you meet someone who claims to have seen a real live mermaid at Bass Lake, Henly-on-Klip, they are telling the truth. Mermaids from Johannesburg gathered to commemorate National Merday 2023.

Their day began by learning to do beautiful mermaid make-up, by well renowned make-up artist, Sigi Shaw, based in Randburg. She taught the mermaids how to apply their scales and much more. They enjoyed having their photos taken by very talented underwater photographer, Albert Smuts.

Blairgowrie-based mermaid Janet Rudman, a freediving instructor offered them a guided swim to explore the breathtaking waters of Bass Lake. A nice refreshing swim to have a look at the waterfall on the other side of the lake in mermaid tails.

Mermaids transformed into their tails, designed by tail makers, Dana Cato of Two Ocean Mermaid Tails, and Kylee Nel of Moonsong Magic Mermaid Tails.

Canto explained that having their own day to celebrate being a mer is really special. “We get to recognise all our local merfolk, our community and celebrate how much our community has grown and all the amazing folk within it.”

“Being able to spend time and swim with other mermaids is always such fun, I’d liken it to having a pool party as a child. You’re all in the water, having fun, doing tricks, and enjoying everyone’s company. It’s an amazing way to relax and switch off from all the life stresses for a while and let your hair down,” she added.

Nina Roux applauded the growth of the mermaids in Joburg and encouraged people to try to join mermaids.

“We are growing exponentially I would recommend it to anyone who’s curious. It’s such a great activity, there are many amazing facets. I think everyone approaches it in their own way, which further grows the community with new ideas.”

If you too want to be a certified NAUI mermaid, contact Freediving Johannesburg on 0826812510

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