Since 2012, several organisations have been monitoring the Tradouw redfin Pseudobarbus burchelli population and the overall health of the Huis and Tradouw river systems. From 2018 onwards, the Grootvadersbosch Conservancy (GVB) has played a leading role through various freshwater conservation initiatives—most notably the Grootvadersbosch Aquatic Species Protection Project (GASPP), implemented in partnership with CapeNature and funded by the Table Mountain Fund. Although GASPP concluded in 2022, one of its key achievements was the development of local knowledge and capacity for long-term monitoring. GVBC has since continued annual monitoring in April/May and October/November across 59 sites between Riversdale and Swellendam.

GVBC recently hosted a workshop focused on developing a species action plan—funded by the IUCN Species Survival Commission—which will inform the drafting of a Biodiversity Management Plan (BMP) for the Barrydale redfin. Once this BMP is approved, the Minister of Environment will appoint a lead agency and publish the plan in the Government Gazette. The BMP then becomes binding, providing additional legal protection for the species. Furthermore, the publication of a BMP and the signing of a Biodiversity Management Agreement between qualifying taxpayers and the Minister may unlock a tax incentive. This incentive allows for the deduction of qualifying conservation and maintenance expenses from taxable income—effectively reducing tax liability and encouraging conservation efforts.

During our first workshop in March, Dr Martine Jordaan from Cape Nature commented on a noticeable decline in redfin numbers in the Tradouw Pass and emphasised the need for more intensive sampling to confirm these trends. In response, a comprehensive fish monitoring survey was conducted by GVBC over a 7 km stretch of the Tradouw Pass, in collaboration with the Gouritz Cluster Biosphere Reserve. This took place in April 2025—our usual monitoring period—but involved a more extensive effort, using eight nets across five sites (as opposed to the usual one or two nets at one site). The results were concerning- not a single redfin was recorded across all the sites. This represents a significant decline when compared with past surveys and points to increasing pressure on this river system.

Historically, eels have also been found in the system, but none were detected in the recent survey, despite. Surprisingly, very few invasive fish were found either—just two juvenile tilapia at one site. These findings raise critical questions about the river’s current ecological state. What could be occurring downstream that is preventing eel migration? And what’s driving the decline in redfin populations in the Tradouw Pass? Could it be linked to a recent flood event or sudden changes in water temperature? These are pressing questions that require further investigation and ongoing monitoring. ​These results are consistent with Dr Jordaan’s observations over the past decade: a steady decline in the redfin population, particularly in the Tradouw system. This highlights the increasing importance of the Huis River system for the species' survival and underscores the need for a robust management plan to ensure the survival of the species.
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On a more positive note, the species has officially been named as Pseudobarbus burchelli (common name Tradouw redfin) and the details are updated in the new Field Guide to the Freshwater Fishes of Southern Africa (Skelton, 2024). This formal recognition strengthens the case for its conservation and brings renewed attention to the urgent need for action.

In the biodiverse landscapes of the Western Cape, a quiet but critical battle is underway. Invasive alien plants are spreading rapidly, crowding out native fynbos, stealing water from already-stressed ecosystems, and increasing the risk of destructive wildfires. Invaders like Port Jackson willow (Acacia saligna), hakea (Hakea sericea), black wattle (Acacia mearnsii) and lantana (Lantana camara) are not only difficult to control—they are deeply harmful to South Africa’s ecosystems. They displace native species, reduce biodiversity, and degrade both soil and water resources.
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To win this battle, we need every tool at our disposal. At the Grootvadersbosch Conservancy (GVBC), we’re working with partners to combine mechanical and chemical control methods with innovative, nature-based solutions—specifically, biological control.

​GVBC is collaborating with leading researchers from institutions such as the Agricultural Research Council (ARC), the Centre for Biological Control at Rhodes University, and the University of Cape Town to promote and distribute biological control agents—specialist insects and mites that target invasive plants without harming native species. These tiny organisms are highly specific to their host plants, making them powerful allies in long-term ecological restoration. By harnessing their natural behaviours, biocontrol transforms scientific research into tangible on-the-ground results.

Meet some of the heros

• Seed-devouring weevils: These insects can destroy up to 90% of hakea seeds, greatly limiting the plant’s ability to spread.
• Leaf-munching moths: Their caterpillars feed on Port Jackson willow leaves, weakening the plant and reducing its ability to photosynthesize.
• Gall-forming mites (Aceria lantana): Introduced to control Lantana camara, these microscopic mites induce gall formation in plant tissues, which stunts growth and suppresses flowering

Each of these agents plays a targeted role in weakening invasive plant populations and helping restore the balance of native ecosystems.

Learn More About Other Biocontrol Agents
GVBC recently hosted a training workshop with Dr Fiona Impson, where she introduced the key biological control agents used in the Western Cape and demonstrated how to help capture and distribute them.

​You can watch the training on our YouTube channel.

Lantana camara is emerging as a significant threat in our area. This thorny, fast-growing shrub forms dense thickets that shade out indigenous plants and block wildlife movement. It’s toxic to some livestock and wildlife, and its colourful berries allow it to spread rapidly via birds and mammals.
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Manual removal is extremely labour-intensive, and chemical treatment is both costly and unsustainable. While lantana was historically more common in the eastern parts of the country, it is now spreading rapidly in the Western Cape—possibly due to shifting climate and weather patterns. With the help of Dr Fiona Impson and Dr Alan Wood, GVBC recently released a biological control agent to combat this tough invader.
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Aceria lantana: A Microscopic Marvel
Aceria lantana is a species of gall-forming mite, carefully selected and tested by biocontrol scientists to specifically target Lantana camara. These mites are host-specific, meaning they pose no threat to other plants, animals, or people. Once introduced into the environment, they settle on the leaves and stems of lantana plants and begin feeding.
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What makes them especially effective is their ability to disrupt plant growth. As they feed, the mites induce the formation of tiny galls—swollen, abnormal tissues—that interfere with nutrient flow, inhibit flowering, and reduce the plant’s ability to reproduce and spread. Over time, repeated mite activity leads to a noticeable decline in lantana’s density and vigour. GVBC recently released Aceria lantana in a test area and will monitor its effectiveness before expanding its use more broadly.

How You Can Help
Biocontrol is a powerful conservation tool—but it’s even more effective with community support. Here’s how you can get involved:

• Report invaders: If you spot Port Jackson, wattle, hakea, or lantana, snap a photo and post it on iNaturalist.
• Volunteer: Join a planting day or help out during a biocontrol release event.
• Share the story: Spread the word about these microscopic defenders and the important role they play in restoring ecosystems.
• Join the discussion: Participate in future discussions as part of the Silver Mountain music festival on 16th June. Get your tickets now to attend in person or register now to join the discussion on Zoom. 

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​GVBC’s work is driven by partnerships and community action. Learn more about biocontrol, support ongoing research, or get involved by visiting the GVBC website. Together with ARC, Rhodes University, and a network of passionate conservationists, we’re showing that sometimes the smallest heroes can make the biggest impact.

In February 2025, the Grootvadersbosch Conservancy hosted a Restoration Practitioners Networking Session. Over two days, 26 practitioners from 19 organisations from the Western Cape came together to share practical knowledge, successes, and challenges in the field of ecological restoration.

Unlike traditional academic conferences, this session focused on peer-to-peer learning and hands-on experience. Topics were selected by participants during an online session in December 2024, ensuring discussions were relevant to real-world restoration efforts. The networking started with a classic bring and braai, followed by a fun ice breaker where practitioners stationed themselves outside on a built landscape replica of the Western Cape to express their climate, working conditions and surroundings. Brainstorming exercises and practical field sessions encouraged collaboration, and knowledge was shared in actionable ways. 

​Beyond the valuable exchange of insights, the event fostered strong professional relationships and a sense of camaraderie among practitioners. One of the most significant outcomes was the collective decision to initiate a process for formalising national restoration approaches. Developed by experienced practitioners, these approaches will serve as a guiding framework for funders, landowners, and training programs, ensuring more effective and consistent restoration efforts across South Africa.

The success of this inaugural networking session highlights the power of collaboration in advancing restoration work. As efforts to establish collective approaches move forward, this gathering marks the beginning of a more unified restoration community in the Western Cape and beyond.

Stay tuned for updates as this initiative progresses, and join us in celebrating the work being done to restore and protect our natural landscapes. If you are a restoration practitioner interested in becoming part of this initiative please reach out to Corne at [email protected] , the more the merrier!

Click here for a video of the event

​On February 6, 2025, we had the privilege of hosting a Landowner Open Day, bringing together landowners and conservation organisations for a day of learning, sharing, and collaboration. The event was a fantastic opportunity to facilitate connections and exchange knowledge on alien clearing and restoration efforts on private land.

Leading the day was Mike Fabricius, Chairperson of Conservation@Work, whose extensive experience in private land conservation provided invaluable insights. His guidance emphasized the importance of proactive conservation efforts and the role that private landowners play in preserving our landscapes.
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Our alien clearing manager, Ricardo Januarie, took centre stage to showcase a decade of dedicated work. Through demonstrations and discussions, he highlighted the importance of removing alien invasive species, the long-term benefits of these efforts, and the crucial role that private landowners play in protecting natural ecosystems. 

Throughout the day, attendees engaged in insightful conversations covering topics such as alien clearing, restoration, and camera trapping. We also acknowledged the immense challenges that landowners face—balancing production demands with environmental responsibilities. Despite these pressures, the event created a valuable space for sharing experiences and solutions, reinforcing the idea that conservation is a collective effort.

We appreciate everyone who attended and contributed to making this day a success. Together, we can restore and protect our landscapes for future generations!

​A huge thank you to IKI Small Grants and @tablemountainfund for making this important gathering possible!

Click here for a video link of the day

​On March 20th, the Grootvadersbosch Conservancy hosted a workshop focused on the conservation of the Tradouw redfin (also called the Barrydale Redfin) (Pseudobarbus burchelli) a freshwater fish species endemic to the Barrydale region. The species faces significant threats from habitat degradation, water abstraction, and alien invasive species. It was listed as Critically Endangered during the most recent IUCN Red List Assessment for all freshwater fishes done of South Africa. The workshop is part of a process to develop a Biodiversity Management Plan for the Species (BMP-S) and strategies to ensure the species survival while also addressing the broader issue of water security for the Barrydale community. The process is funded by the IUCN Species Survival Commission and also aligns with a new WWF Nedbank Green Trust on water security in the Huis Tradouw Catchment and the IUCN Save Our Species Conservation Action Grant. The workshop brought together key decision makers in the catchment, including the Swellendam Municipality, CapeNature, the Western Cape Government, the Department of Agriculture, and the Breede-Olifants Catchment Management Agency.

Key discussions centred on the ecological status of the Tradouw redfin, the main threats to its survival, and the critical role of the Huis-Tradouw River system in sustaining both the species and the surrounding community. Issues such as invasive species, water abstraction, and pollution were examined, emphasising the need for sustainable water use practices and river health restoration. Participants also reviewed previous conservation and restoration projects within the system and the ongoing development of the BMP-S, identifying areas for improvement and refining strategies for greater impact.
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Practical solutions were explored, including habitat restoration, controlling invasive species, water use monitoring and utilising tax incentives for conservation actions. The workshop concluded with a collaborative session where stakeholders worked together to refine an action plan, ensuring that conservation strategies align with the ecological needs of the species and the water security requirements of the local community.

​Our Restoration Manager, Corné Brink, provided a guided tour of the nursery where plants are propagated and later planted back into the Barrydale area. Most of these species are water-wise plants, meaning they have characteristics that help filter and retain water beneath the surface. This ensures more water availability during droughts and reduces the risk of extreme flooding along the river. 

​We also visited several sites to better understand the system and assess potential methods and tools for monitoring water flow. This will help inform how the system can be monitored more accurately to determine water allocation and ensure adequate environmental flow. 

It is important to note that the BMP-S is still in its early phase, and further workshops are planned to engage more stakeholders in the development and refinement of the plan, including assigning roles and responsibilities. This plan will ensure that moving forward, stakeholders remain committed to implementing effective conservation measures and bringing together key partners to carry out agreed-upon interventions. This will not only help enhance the survival of this threatened species but also ensure ongoing water security for the Barrydale community.
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This project would not have been possible without the support of the IUCN Species Survival Commission, IUCN Save Our Species Conservation Action Grant, WWF Nedbank Green Trust, our implementing partners Gouritz Cluster Biosphere Reserve, and participating organisations, including the Freshwater Research Centre, CapeNature, Swellendam Municipality, the Western Cape Government, the Department of Agriculture, and the Breede-Olifants Catchment Management Agency.

​The Boosman shrew (Myosorex longicaudatus boosmani) is a critically endangered shrew found only in a remote afro-montane forest section in the Boosmansbos Wilderness Area. It has not been seen since 1980 but in partnership with Cape Nature, the GVB Conservancy assisted in an expedition to find the shrew again.

Here is a video summary of the trip..

We took the opportunity to combine our plans with a heli-hack that was planned in the same mountain region. This would allow us to use a helicopter to transport 86 traps into the mountains with all our equipment. The only way to get to the forest is a 15km hike into the mountains through old and tall fynbos of the Boosmansbos Wilderness Area.

The last time the shrew was found, it took several nights to trap them as they are knowns to be trap-shy but with limited time we were hoping to catch them in 3 nights and 4 mornings. We set out 86 traps, 30 traps were put close to the huts and 56 traps were put on the forest edge of the Boosmanbos forest.

​The traps were baited with peanut butter and oats balls and needed to be checked daily. Our team included experienced small mammal trapping experts, and it was wonderful to watch and learn how to do this safely. We used Sherman traps that were on loan to the expedition (thank you to all who assisted). These traps are excellent for small mammal trapping and allow animals to be safely caught and released without any harm.

After 3 nights of not finding the special creatures, we decided to continue to trap and a major logistical adjustment meant that some team members returned home, while a second team returned up the mountain for a further 2 days of trapping. We then had to overcome the formidable logistics of getting everyone down (including, trap gear, and all garbage) which required a fleet of people.

Unfortunately, we did not find the special shrew and they remain elusive. We only found 2 small mammal species: Myomyscus verreauxii and Myosorex varius. This is less than what we expected but it has helped us to prepare a second expedition where we will conduct more expensive research on historical records to ensure that we have located the most ideal location and have prepared us for a much longer expedition, where we may have to use 2-3 teams of people to locate this elusive creature.

​We can’t yet draw any conclusions on its current population status. We hope that this creature is just very shy and not used to anyone being near its secretive home. We are planning new techniques to try and capture it, including camera traps and a longer expedition into deeper forest areas.

While we did not achieve our objective, we were able to bio-blitz a range of species which allowed us to better understand this unique mountain forest environment. The information also allows us to think carefully about the implications of long intervals between burns within the fynbos region. The last time this area burnt is in the late 80’s and so it’s important to assess this forest shrew population before another fire.

​We do not know what the impact will be of a large fire in the area and if the shrew is limited to the forest edge. If so, a very warm burn could impact the population. We suspect it is safely hiding in the fire safety of the deep forest, but we will be doing all we can to understand its current habit better so that we can ensure its survival in this magnificent and secretive place. 

We look forward to another trip in April 2025!

Well done to the team and everyone who trekked up and down the mountain and who helped make it possible from base camp.

Cape Nature: Marienne de Villiers, Andrew Turner, Edgar Michaels, Graham Highburg, Dominique Coetzee and Elna Vaaltyn.

GVB Conservancy: Ricardo Januarie, Philip Daries, Keith Moodie, Aileen Anderson, Jessi Venter and Ebenezer Figueroa

Cliff and Suretha Dorse (authors of the amazing book Field Guide to Fynbos Fauna) (Get a copy now)
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Logistics and base camp: Darren Blom, Michael Raimondo, Justin du Toit, Nkosekhaya Pinzi, Makoma Mpekwane

​We are excited to share the progress of our project, funded by the International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN), which focuses on protecting a critically endangered freshwater fish population in the Huis River. The project, called Creating a Safe Home in the Huis River for the Tradouw Redfin, is a collaborative effort with the local community of Barrydale to safeguard this unique species and their fragile habitat.

The Huis River, which flows through the Western Cape of South Africa, is the last known refuge for a critically endangered population of redfin, Pseudobarbus sp. ‘burchelli Tradouw’, commonly called the Tradouw or Barrydale Redfin. The population in the Tradouw Pass, which is part of the Grootvadersbosch Conservancy, appears to be in decline so urgent action is needed to protect these fish who may now be confined to isolated pools above the town of Barrydale, by ensuring their safe haven in the Huis River, we hope to enable the possibility of reestablishing the species in the Tradouw Pass.
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An essential part of this initiative involves reducing the pressure on the river's water resources. During the summer months, when water is scarce and the fish need it most, low river flows pose a significant threat to the redfin’s survival. To address this, we have been working with local community members to reduce the need for water extraction from the river by providing rainwater storage solutions.

​Through the generous support of The International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN), we have distributed rainwater tanks to community members who expressed a need for water and a commitment to help protect the river system. These tanks are designed to collect rainwater during the winter months, which can then be used to meet the community's needs in the drier summer season. By relying on stored rainwater, we reduce the demand on the Huis River, which in turn helps protect the delicate balance of the freshwater ecosystem.

This project not only benefits the redfin but also encourages water conservation and sustainable practices within the community. With growing pressure on municipal water supplies, agricultural development, and tourism, every effort to conserve water is vital. The tanks have been distributed to those who have shown a strong commitment to river conservation, and we encourage all members of the Barrydale community to do their part in saving water. Together, we can protect the Tradouw Redfin and ensure a healthy future for the Huis River.

​Have you ever wondered what tiny creatures call our rivers home? This month, junior high school students in De Waaville (Heidelberg) and Olyfkrans (Swellendam) explored this fascinating question while learning about freshwater ecosystems. Freshwater ecosystems are vital for sustaining life on Earth, providing drinking water and habitats for countless species, and rivers play a critical role in maintaining this balance. Educating young people about the health of these ecosystems fosters a sense of responsibility and empowers them to take action. 

​At both schools, we were able to do a mini-SASS using samples collected from Koringlands River in Swellendam and Duiwenhoks in Heidelberg. The samples were collected in upstream and downstream locations to illustrate how human habitation can impact our river health. 

​A SASS (South African Scoring System) is a tool used by scientists to monitor river health by identifying benthic macroinvertebrates, small aquatic animals that live in riverbeds. Each species is assigned a score, with more environmentally sensitive species having higher scores. These scores are then averaged, with higher averages signalling a better overall river health. The GVB conservancy does SASS at various river locations twice a year to understand the river ecosystem health in the region. It is important for us at the conservancy to identify ways to work with the community to keep our rivers healthy. This includes doing mini-SASS sessions with students living around many of the rivers we sample. 

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While standard SASS requires specialised training, the simplified mini-SASS makes this process accessible to citizens, especially school-aged children. Much of the methods for sample collection and score production is simplified, while also maintaining a comparable overall standard of assessment. This makes mini-SASS ideal for our environmental education days. Some students from Olyfkrans had the opportunity to watch how samples were collected. A GVB conservancy member went into the river with waders and a net. We placed the net on the bed of the river and began kicking the rocks below. Additionally, we made sure to sample on gravel riverbed and near spots of the river with vegetation. Samples are placed in a white tray containing freshwater from the river, and students are given info sheets to help identify the species within the tray.

​Although the species within the tray are visible to the naked eye, students were also given a hand lens and magnifying glass to look for distinct features to help with identification. Students from both schools were eager and excited to identify the macroinvertebrate species. Many species look similar, so students also had a poster that illustrated the different species to help draw conclusions. The posters were then donated to the schools with big thanks to Christian Fry, whose incredible book A Field Guide to Freshwater Macroinvertebrates of South Africa is an amazing resource for freshwater macroinvertebrate identification.

​We love to see our students engage in discussion about what they are seeing! After calculating the scores for river health, students were given an opportunity to brainstorm ways they could help improve river health, including limiting their own pollution. Many of them stated the importance of planting indigenous plant species in their home gardens, especially if they live near a river. Indigenous plant species near a river can help improve water quality, limit erosion, and help reduce the risk of floods. 

Students from Olyfkrans also had the opportunity to put what they learned into practice by planting indigenous trees on their school grounds. They demonstrated a great deal of care with the trees they planted. Way to go, guys! These environmental education days remind us of the power of young minds to inspire change. We can’t wait to continue fostering this enthusiasm in future projects and encourage everyone to take small steps—like planting a tree or reducing pollution—it all adds up to healthier rivers and ecosystems for all. A big thank you to Table Mountain Fund for funding this work and to the Gouritz Cluster Biosphere Reserve who are our project partners. 

This year’s AGM was a special occasion as we celebrated 10 years of active project implementation, alongside highlighting the impactful work of the Grootvadersbosch Conservancy across a range of environmental projects. What started with the employment of our first 3 full-time staff members has grown into a thriving organization, now employing 10 full-time, while creating contract work for over 120 people annually.
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A Decade of Alien Clearing
One of our most significant achievements over the past decade has been our alien clearing program. Since 2014, we’ve successfully cleared 18,823 hectares, with follow-ups on 15,870 hectares, creating over 100,747 days of employment. On average, this translates to 43 full-time jobs each year. This program not only provides job opportunities but also ensures the preservation and health of our local ecosystems, protecting them from alien invasive species and providing the natural vegetation to grow back.

​Expanding into Restoration
Thanks to funding from the IKI small grant and IUCN, our restoration projects have expanded over the past year. The restoration work supports sustainable agricultural practices, healthier river systems, job opportunities, and capacity building. These efforts are crucial for climate stability and river security, as well as for maintaining biodiversity. We've trained over 20 people in restoration work where half of the time is spent working within a nursery, how to propagate local indigenous species, how to do cuttings and splitting, and the correct planting methods.
Our work in active restoration spans 3 different sites, including private landowners and public areas, showcasing diversity, in both species and partnerships, which is key to building environmental resilience.

​Keynote Address: River Restoration and Agriculture
Our keynote speaker, Dana Grobler, shared his invaluable insights on river restoration, using his experience with various river systems as an example. Dana’s talk focused on the impact of agriculture on the environment, particularly on river systems, and how sustainable practices can mitigate these effects. He emphasized the importance of understanding river geomorphology and the natural flood zones to implement effective restoration strategies. His close collaboration with landowners has resulted in improvements to their local environment and enhanced the health of their rivers.
Through the removal of invasive species and better management of sediment transport, Dana's efforts have shown how landowners can contribute to restoring riparian zones, creating a balance that benefits both the environment and the agricultural landscape.

​A Journey Through Time with Thys Swart
Another highlight of the day was a nostalgic trip down memory lane, presented by one of our members, Thys Swart. Thys captivated the audience with stories about the rich history of theGrootvadersbosch Valley, dating back to the 1700s. He shared fascinating tales about the first settlers, the old farms, and how the conservancy has evolved over the centuries. This historical perspective added depth to the celebration and left everyone feeling more connected to the land we are working to protect.

New Projects and Looking Ahead
We’re excited to announce our upcoming three-year project, funded by the Nedbank Green Trust, which will focus on water resource protection in the Tradouw and Huis river systems. This project is a continuation of our partnership with the Gouritz Cluster Biosphere Reserve and aims to further our conservation and restoration efforts in the region.
Additionally, we’ve recently assisted to restoration the Barrydale Caravan Park, which now features a medicinal and useful plant garden, indigenous tree rehabilitation, and a picnic area. This area serves both as a conservation effort and a recreational space for the community to enjoy.
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The Future is Bright
As we look forward, we remain committed to furthering our restoration and conservation work. We are proud of what we have achieved over the past decade and are excited about the future projects we have planned. Thank you to everyone who has supported us on this journey. Together, we are building a more sustainable and resilient environment for the Grootvadersbosch area and beyond.

And as always, we had a wonderful wine tasting the evening of the fabulous Olifantsberg Wines and a fantastic meal from the Grootvadersbosch Farm that Michelle Moodie prepared

Thank you to everyone who attended! 

​Ever wondered what it's like to dangle 100 metres in the air, with just a rope keeping you from gravity’s grip? Well, welcome to high-angle rope work—where everyday tasks like washing windows or alien clearing take place in the sky!
Picture this: You're strapped in, harness tight, helmet snug. Below, the world looks small as you pull yourself up, one line at a time. The sunshine on your face and the only sounds are the creak of your gear and your own heartbeat. It’s not just work—it’s a vertical adventure!
From skyscrapers to cliffs, high-angle work gives you views that no desk job ever could. And yes, the adrenaline? That’s just a bonus.
Ready to hang out?

These are the words from our quality controller - Philip Daries - who recently acquired his High-Angle Training. With this training and knowledge he can ensure our high altitude teams are save and implementing the correct procedures.  

What Exactly Is High-Angle Rope Work?
Ever looked up at a building or cliff and spotted someone hanging from a rope, casually working away as if gravity isn't a thing? Yep, that’s high-angle rope work—a job that mixes equal parts adrenaline, skill, and a love for heights. Let’s dive in (safely, with a harness on!) to what makes this job both thrilling and practical.
Imagine trying to remove alien plants on a cliff in the mountain range —only it’s hundreds of metres above ground, and no piece of equipment or ledge is safe enough. That’s where rope work comes in. Using specialised equipment like harnesses, ropes, ascenders, and carabiners, professionals safely access hard-to-reach spots by dangling like adventurous human spiders. This isn't your everyday desk job—think of it as extreme multitasking at great heights!
We had the privilege to receive first-hand training from a matured technician in his field with decades of experience, Mr. Dion Tromp from High-angle Rescue and Access. With decades of experience, he shared his experiences and knowledge with us as we embarked on a new journey. Emphasising that safety comes first and that ropework is not time-based but rather safety-based. “Take your time as long as you are safe while dangling”, as he would exclaim. In partnership with the GCBR, the conservancy recently made their training space available to train 15 number of people in rope access. We also used the opportunity to offer a refresher training to our active rope access teams and train a new supervisor to oversee the work. The GVBCT has been implementing rope access work in the Korente-Vette River gorge for the past 3 years.

The Gear: It’s More Than Just a Fancy Rope
Sure, the rope is important (really important!), but there’s a whole array of gear designed to keep workers secure and comfortable while they dangle mid-air. Here’s a quick rundown of the essentials:

• Harness: Think of it as your security blanket, but way cooler. This hugs your body tight, keeping you snug and attached to the ropes while keeping all your equipment on you secure.

​Screw-gate Carabiners: These little metal clips are your lifeline—literally! They secure the ropes to your harness, and their job is to make sure everything stays attached and connected.

• Ascenders & Descenders: Fancy tools that help you go up and down like a superhero. Ascenders lock in place when you pull yourself up, while descenders let you glide down smoothly (or as gracefully as you can manage).

​The first image is an I’D used for descending and counts as 1 point. The next piece of equipment is a Jumar followed by the Croll, used for ascending. These two are used together and count as 1 point accumulatively.

​What Does a Day Look Like for a High-Angle Rope Worker?
Spoiler alert: It’s not all death-defying stunts and dramatic scaling of mountains. Though, to be honest, some days might be exactly like that! A typical day might involve checking equipment, setting up anchor points, and making sure everything is secure before even stepping off the ground.
With this training experience, we can now ensure that every worker knows exactly how to operate when it comes to high-angle work. Every movement is calculated because at 100 meters up, there’s no room for error. Workers must trust their gear, their skills, and their teammates. When doing site inspections (with this knowledge) that’s exactly what we’ll be looking at. Ensuring the safety of the team is the FIRST priority.

​Why Choose Rope Access Over Traditional Methods?
Good question! Rope work is expensive work because the training and equipment are very costly but, in the long run, it is really important and can be safer than trying to do the work without ropes. Imagine preparing to remove a tree on a ledge but you must walk and cling on for dear life when doing it—now imagine just clipping into a rope and rappelling down in half the time. It’s also less intrusive, allowing workers to keep operating without bulky equipment blocking the way. The work is essential to reach the hard to get to places in the mountains and is much safer. This allows us to do our job more efficiently and more accurately, instead of clearing an area while leaving 2 or 3 trees.
 
Final Thoughts: Rope Work—For the Brave at Heart
If you’ve ever wanted a job that’s anything but ordinary, high-angle rope work might just be for you. It’s the perfect blend of technical skill, physical fitness, and, well, hanging out in the sky! Whether it’s fixing things in high places, keeping mountains clear of invasives, or inspecting hard-to-reach areas, these sky-walking professionals keep everything running smoothly—all while having the best view in the house.
Now, who’s ready to go for a (safe) climb?