SANParks wish list read as follows: building of game capture bomas, swimming baths, educational duties and display boards, computers, electrification of camps, recreational equipment, bird hides, research equipment, office equipment, trailers, game drive vehicles, canoes, baboon-proof dustbins, and alien invasive plant awareness (among others). In 2024, there is a dedicated wish list for counter poaching equipment, snare removal duties, K9 anti-poaching dogs and ranger support programmes. For the SHR, the increase in criminal activities and poaching in our national parks meant re-thinking and adapting its objectives and approach. It was crucial that the organisation evolve its fundraising capabilities to keep pace with the exponential need to protect South Africa’s precious wildlife, and to remain relevant to SANParks as a strategic partner. Today, our fundraising activities – ranging from bush camps, marathons, and birding weekends to fundraising golf days and musical events – all aim to raise funds for conservation initiatives in our national parks. Looking forward 60 years is an astonishing track record. It demonstrates humanity’s love of nature, wildlife, and wild places, and a growing interest in eco-volunteer opportunities that give voice to this. The remarkable growth of the SHR organisation over the past 60 years speaks of a growing commitment by ordinary citizens to protect our natural heritage for generations to come. In a world where the conservation landscape is rapidly changing and evolving, the SHR must evolve and adapt accordingly. As we look towards the future, our protected areas face daunting challenges. It will be crucial for the SHR to grow its membership and fundraising capabilities to keep pace with increasing human pressures in a world with increasingly sophisticated technology. Furthermore, as we emerge from the post-Covid years, socio-economic and sustainability considerations are emerging as an integral part of conservation. Communities hold the key to conservation in impoverished areas bordering national parks. The SHR must explore projects and initiatives that can integrate these considerations into their strategic objectives. The SHR is proud to be a strategic partner to SANParks. As we celebrate our 60-year legacy of volunteer support to conservation in South Africa, we acknowledge and appreciate our strong relationship with SANParks, and through that relationship, the opportunity to make a difference for conservation in South Africa’s magnificent national parks for generations to come. SANParks Honorary Rangers 2024 11
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