Author: Lindsay Hanekom, Project Manager, Peace Parks
A Note of Appreciation for the Bateleur Team and RAG (RHINO ACTION GROUP)
In early December 2024, members of the Peace Parks Foundation, the Department of Fisheries, Forestry and the Environment, and the Rhino Action Group were treated to an unforgettable experience with the Bateleur pilots of the Garden Route/Western Cape. We arrived at the small airfield at Mossel Bay, where we had the privilege of meeting Niel, Mark, and Edmund—three remarkable volunteers of the Bateleur team.
From the moment we arrived, we were impressed by their professionalism and generosity. They guided us through the operation of the light aircraft, ensuring all safety procedures were explained and indemnities signed before we took off. Their attention to detail and commitment to safety made us feel at ease throughout the experience.
Time to fly us over to the stunning 62,000-hectare Sanbona Reserve, nestled at the foot of the Warmwaterberg in the Little Karoo.
Unseen Guardians: The Vital Role of Bateleur Pilots in Combatting Wildlife Crime
During the flights, (3 little planes in the air together carrying various members of our delegation of which we were all in communications with our headphones along the way) we were shown key poaching hotspots, learning about the critical role the Bateleur pilots play in monitoring these areas. We were briefed on how they identify and report poaching activity, with a focus on how the planes' presence serves as a deterrent to criminals. It became clear just how vital their "eyes in the skies" are in the ongoing battle against wildlife crime.
It was truly an honour to be flown by these three dedicated men, who volunteer their planes and time to combat wildlife crime and protect South Africa’s precious natural resources. We also extend our gratitude to all the other role players working tirelessly to safeguard our land and wildlife.
While at Sanbona, we witnessed a truly inspiring example of collaborative efforts in action………….
PILOT REPORT:
Author: Mark Rule, Bateleurs Pilot
Monday 2 December 2024 dawned clear and ready for my flight to Mossel Bay for our mission to take Peace Parks Foundation (PPF) and Department of Forestry, Fisheries and the Environment (DFFE) personnel for an educational flight to Sanbona Game Reserve. The schedule was tight given the weather report and the day’s requirements.
After take-off in a Piper Dakota from Morningstar, I contacted Cape Town Approach for my flight plan clearance, which was a direct routing to Mossel Bay at flight level 110. The flight was smooth at that level, followed by descending, joining and landing at the neat and tidy Mossel Bay airport. After refuelling, I met fellow Bateleurs pilots Edmund (Vans RV 7) and Neil Clarke (Savannah). We had a preflight briefing then met the two ladies and a gentleman from DFFE and two ladies from PPF.
We allocated pax to aircraft and flew from Mossel Bay to Riversdale and over the Langeberg Garcia Pass in (very) loose formation, then followed gravel roads towards Sanbona, identifying points along the roads where criminal activity had been observed previously. Such activity relates to poaching and theft of succulent plants, insects and other fauna and flora which are smuggled and sold illegally offshore.
After landing at the well-maintained Sanbona landing strip, which was a wide gravel runway of about 1100m, we were collected in game drive vehicles and transported to the charming Dwyka Lodge, which has tent-like roofs, set against a background of a wide river bend featuring cliffs where Black Eagles nest. We were hosted by reserve staff who provided delicious snacks and drinks.
Paul, with Frank and Jonno, from the reserve, explained at length their very impressive strategy, to protect their flora and fauna against devastation caused by international cartels.
We then proceeded from Sanbona, following other specifically identified gravel roads, via Vanwyksdorp, back over the Langeberg, to Mossel Bay.
After farewells and a weather update (reporting a now delayed frontal approach), I departed VFR and swooped under the incoming cloud at Sir Lowry’s Pass to land safely at Morningstar, prior to the arriving frontal system making it problematic to land.
Comments