Dana Bay Conservancy awareness drive in March

The Dana Bay Conservancy Committee is planning an awareness drive again on Saturday, 23 March.

This year will be similar to last year, but it is planning to advertise sooner and have more institutions and local businesses present. "We want to go bigger, and we will again make use of the Dana Bay Community Hall for this purpose. The municipality has already approved the use of the hall on this day," says Erika van der Westhuizen.

Access for the public and exhibitors is free, but donations to the Dana Bay Conservancy are welcome. Various exhibitors are involved in the day, such as the neighbourhood watch, SPCA, Seabird and Penguin Rehabilitation Centre (SAPREC), Stranded Marine Animal Rescue Team (S.M.A.R.T.), Gourikwa Reserve, and several others.

The event starts at 09:00 and ends at 14:00. Set-up time for participants is between 08:00 and 09:00. The mayor will open the event. Thereafter a short talk will be delivered by the ranger at Gourikwa Reserve on conservation.

There are many benefits for the public.

Platform

For the residents, they will have a one-stop platform to address some institutions with their questions and concerns. Residents can join institutions involved in the event and become members.

Information gained about things, events, interests that they want to explore further. The public will be able to buy some goods as some businesses will sell limited goods and other service providers in the community to add value to the outing. If the event is a success, more businesses will be invited the next time, so that all local businesses will benefit.

Benefits for institutions and businesses are an awareness opportunity and sharing of information with residents.

There is the opportunity for future bookings, if applicable, and to gain donations.

Organisations can also benefit from one another's members attending and have a larger footprint.

Institutions are welcome to set up a gazebo outside if the weather permits. Otherwise, there will be tables inside the hall. "You are most welcome to set up banners and promotional items or just bring yourself," says Van der Westhuizen.

For more information, contact Van der Westhuizen (083 708 9235).