SICK and tired of continued littering and vandalism, Richards Bay’s self-appointed ‘Pelican Island Protector’ (PIP) has thrown in the towel.
Over the past five years, PIP and his loyal band of anonymous helpers have taken it on themselves to restore the prime recreational asset to its pristine state, thanks to donations of time, money and materials from environment lovers.
In his ‘resignation letter’, PIP said he and his colleagues had worked tirelessly and become good friends.
‘Most Zululanders were aware of what we were up against, as we cleaned up fishing lines and hooks, plastic bottles, broken glass, soiled nappies, condoms, rotten fish bait and more.
‘We planted trees that were kindly donated to us, brought compost and watered them daily to keep them alive.
‘We erected and replaced (over and over again) barricade poles and tyres to prevent people from driving through the undergrowth and destroying the trees and birds’ nesting places.
‘We placed rubbish bins and sign boards, pleading for people to use them.
‘Every single day, the horrible job of cleaning up the litter and replacing the barricade poles fell on our shoulders,’ said PIP.
‘Soon the bird life returned and the vegetation grew back to its natural state.
‘Most of the trees planted began to take root and no longer needed to be watered daily.
‘Pelican Island had become a clean, peaceful haven, where residents could spend quality time.’
Losing battle
‘Recently, however, the battle to maintain this island has become too great for me to endure.
‘Every day brings more waste to the beach, damage to the vegetation and harm to the bird life.
‘Our poles are removed and used to make fires and the vegetation is once again being damaged by vehicles.
‘People are using the area as a latrine and the municipality is unable or unwilling to offer their assistance to prevent people removing sand illegally.
‘A simple matter of making it pedestrians only would foil that activity, and also stop people from driving on the vegetation.’
PIP says he hopes some ‘younger environment-loving soldiers’ will take over the job and make their contribution to society, as ‘I am an older man and it is time for me to withdraw’.
PHOTO: DAVE SAVIDES
