Tribute to Port Alfred’s barefoot guardian
Remembering ROBERT SUTTON (1952-2022)
For those who knew him, Robert Sutton was quixotic, volatile and sometimes quarrelsome. He was a man of keen intelligence, well read, a poet who lived outside the norms of society, preferring bare feet to shoes, lodging in outbuildings and eking out a living as a gardener. He was passionate about the environment. He had a vast knowledge of ecosystems, of the relevant plants, insects and birds. He was also passionate about local history.
Port Alfred owes Robert and his right hand man Michael “Jackson” Shooter Jawu Ka a huge debt, for the clearing of the invading alien Port Jackson Willow and Rooikrans that was smothering the natural dune bush between Kelly’s and West Beaches. His novel approach to Port Alfred City Council was to request the provision of the necessary tools for the task and for status-giving uniforms for his labourers. Wages were to be paid through the sale of the felled wood. I’m not sure how long this took but the rich dune bush that you now see along the sea is the result. To my knowledge this achievement has never been properly publicly acknowledged.
He and Michael worked for months to clear the ubiquitous Queen of the Night cactus from my own garden in Pirie Lane which he took care of for many years.
Another of Robert’s completed projects was the clearing of the silted up tunnel connecting Kiddies Beach with the Lagoon. The resulting increased tidal flow greatly improved the water quality. Birds, fish and the entire ecosystem benefitted hugely turning the Lagoon into an asset instead of a dubious swamp.
Waging his own war on plastics Robert could often be seen picking up rubbish along the roadside.
Robert’s passion for the history of the Kowie was evidenced in his involvement in the Museum and his collaboration with Bev Young of Port Alfred Tourism in researching and assembling heritage information. He had begun a list categorising the various historic buildings, structures and sites in the area. This would have enabled their correct listing as required by the National Monuments Act that regrettably to date Port Alfred has not done - an important task that sadly Robert left unfinished.
Robert will be remembered as an unusual and truly remarkable man whose single minded sense of purpose made lasting contributions to Port Alfred.
May his soul rest in peace