Purpose Members pf the Johannesburg South Region engaging with the public at the Ghandi Walk. This national project’s primary objective is to inform and educate members of the public about the importance of conservation of our natural, cultural and historical heritage. Public Education and Awareness Programme Educational displays are held at shopping malls, sporting events, trade shows, markets and schools. The objective of these displays is to educate members of the public about the importance of conservation and the protection of our natural resources. School displays are increasing in popularity and are successful in achieving the mission of the project: “Through educating visitors at our stands, the knowledge we impart is passed from generation to generation. Through awareness, we are creating the understanding and appreciation of Mother Nature and the importance of conservation.” Several successful displays were held during 2023/2024. Members of the Addo Region hosted a display at the annual Kirkwood Wildsfees from 30 June to 2 July 2023, thanks to space donated by SANParks. The exhibit focused on the impacts of snares and poaching in national parks and the Endangered Wildlife Trust’s ‘Brake for Wildlife’ project, with the assistance of the SHRs. Spekboom cuttings were handed to visitors to promote the benefits of this ‘miracle plant’. Members of the West Coast Region were active at the entrance gates to the West Coast National Park during the spring flower season (August and September). Flower identification guides were on sale to visitors and members were on hand to inform visitors about the West Coast National Park, its fauna, flora, and cultural history. Members of Bankenveld Region held more than 20 educational displays throughout the year, including at the Aardklop arts festival in Potchefstroom, the Geesfees at Lekwena Wildlife Estate and Elgro River Lodge (with the Wesvaal Bird Club). 86 SANParks Honorary Rangers 2024 INTERPRETATION NATIONAL PROJECT Members’ activities continued
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