Faded lagoon markers a pity

Glory be! We were allowed to go out recreational fishing in our boats today, 13 June!

Leapt into my boat and travelled to the Heads, excited to be back on this fabulous lagoon. But the water was very cold at 14 degrees so no use trying to fish. Turned around and then nearly ran into that dangerous sandbank in the middle of the channel as the first two, and main estuary safety buoys, are missing. The first since before the Covid shutdown. I also noticed that the first main "non-baiting" marker pole no. 3 at the Heads is still unreadable, as is its explanation board. SANParks has been made aware of this with photographic evidence. Odd, as it must take years to get into this state.

I then travelled up to the Railway Bridge hoping the water would be warmer. No luck, it was 12 degrees. Coming back, you pass the large square buoy outside the SANParks offices, informing everyone going into Thesen’s or going up to the Waterfront via the Knysna Yacht Club, that there is a no-wake zone and speed restriction. You guessed it, totally white and unreadable.

Came back to Leisure Isle and saw that the main pole at the start of the Ashmead Channel and also the start of The Leisure Isle Boat Club channel is missing. This marker also advises against speed and skiing. Drove back to town and saw that the Main K5 "nonbaiting" marker in George Rex Drive has still not had its advisory board replaced.

I am well aware of SANParks' budgetary constraints. But we are talking of a few litres of paint and replacing some small notice boards.

SANParks is very active since lockdown telling everyone where not to walk and fish and take dogs. Just wish they had taken the opportunity to do some maintenance like the rest of us. (Letter shortened)