Rhino plight taken to new heights

IF ALL goes well, at least two rhinos will summit Island Peak in Nepal in aid of rhino conservation – in costume form.

Rhyan Rudman and his wife Susanwill leave South Africa at the end of March, hoping to conquer the peak, which is 6 189m above sea level, wearing rhino costumes.

They aim to raise funds for the Thula Thula Rhino Orphanage in KwaZuluNatal through the initiative. The orphanage was attacked by poachers last month. Two baby rhinos were killed, caregivers were beaten and a woman was raped.

The couple hope to raise R50 000. Accompanying the Rudmans are a group of nine intrepid trekkers and climbers, hiking for the same cause, but conducting different tasks. Some will be there to photograph and film the event.

They will trek to Everest Base Camp and then climb the peak. “The trek combines most of the spectacular vantage points in the Everest region. After we reach Namche Bazaar, we will move on to Tengboche, Dingboche, Lobuche and Gorakshep,” Rhyan Rudman said.

Some of the group will attempt the technical climb of Island Peak, hoping to stand on the summit in their rhino gear.

“We want to send a message to show how dire the situation is and to what extent these poachers will go to harm our wildlife. Our government is hell-bent on legalising the trade (in rhino horn).

“South Africa’s heritage should not be used for human consumption. We will print the slogan ‘Stop trade in rhino horn’ on a South African flag.”

Visit www.doit4charity.co.za/Climb4Rhino.2017 for more information.