Kromme Enviro-Trust: Update from The Chairmans Report
Hi everyone,
With the year well underway, we wanted to share a snapshot of what’s been happening across the Kromme Enviro-Trust. It’s been a busy and productive period, with a wide range of initiatives continuing to grow along with a few important challenges that remain front of mind.
Protecting the Oyster Bay Dune Field
Work continues to secure long-term protection for the Oyster Bay Dune Field, one of the largest and most significant mobile headland dune systems in the world. While development pressures (including the proposed Thyspunt nuclear site) remain, encouraging progress has been made, including ongoing engagement with key stakeholders. This remains one of our most important long-term projects.
The Save Our Dunes Pentathlon was a real highlight of the year — a fun, energetic day that also helped raise awareness of the importance of protecting this unique landscape. We’re already looking forward to the next one on 2 May 2026!
Wildlife Sanctuary & Environmental Awareness
It’s been a particularly demanding year for the Sanctuary, with a high volume of seabird rescues, ongoing impacts from avian influenza, and the continued effects of environmental pressures on marine life.
Alongside this, a major focus has been on public education especially around fledglings and the unintended harm caused by well-meaning intervention. Clear guidance is helping, but ongoing awareness remains critical to improving outcomes for these vulnerable birds.
A Wake-Up Call for Wildlife Protection
The loss of owls due to secondary poisoning was a stark reminder of how everyday choices impact the environment. In response, a strong awareness campaign has been launched around the dangers of rodenticides and other household poisons.
The good news is that safer alternatives do exist and small changes at home can make a meaningful difference.
Growing the Next Generation – Eco-Kids
Eco-Kids continues to thrive, with young environmentalists taking part in educational mornings and clean-ups throughout the year.
With even more events planned for 2026, this programme remains a cornerstone of building environmental awareness for the future (and a lot of fun along the way!).
Community Spaces and Partnerships
Bruce’s Ocean Museum Café has become a vibrant hub for community activities, education, and making connections – this is a real asset to the area.
We’ve also continued our involvement in community initiatives such as the Amazing Race and the St Francis Soccer Club, which highlights the strong collaboration between local organisations and the wider community.
Conservation Partnerships and Protected Areas
Our work with the Greater Kromme Stewardship continues to deliver meaningful conservation outcomes, with over 2,000 hectares already secured for protection and several additional sites progressing through the declaration process.
We are also actively involved in the Greater Kabeljous Partnership, supporting efforts to protect critically endangered Renosterveld and important bird habitats. Together, these initiatives play a vital role in safeguarding the region’s unique biodiversity for the future.
Responding to Development Pressures
A key part of the Trust’s work is reviewing and responding to development proposals that may impact our environment. During the past year, this has included engagement on proposals ranging from local infrastructure developments to offshore oil and gas exploration, as well as renewed plans for nuclear development at Thyspunt. We continue to participate in Environmental Impact Assessment processes, ensuring that environmental considerations are properly represented and that informed, balanced input is provided on behalf of the community.
Clean-Ups, Trails and Community Projects
Our coastal clean-ups continue to grow, supported by an incredible group of volunteers.
The Two Harbours Trail has required significant repair and upgrade work following erosion and heavy seasonal use, while the Community Garden remains a well-loved and peaceful space thanks to ongoing volunteer care.
Responding to Challenges
This year’s devastating fires were a reminder of how quickly our environment can be impacted. The Trust contributed to firefighting efforts, and we extend our sincere thanks to all those who worked tirelessly to protect our area.
Small Actions, Big Impact
Initiatives like the Fishing Line Bins continue to quietly make a difference reducing harm to wildlife and showing how simple interventions can have a real impact.
Growing Our Reach
Our website and social media platforms have seen strong growth, helping us reach a wider audience and increase awareness of the Trust’s work and initiatives.
Thank You
None of this would be possible without our members, volunteers, partners and wider community. Your support, time and energy are what make all of this possible.
This is just a snapshot of a very full year.
You can read the full Chairman’s Report on our website, https://stfranciskrommetrust.co.za/news/