In celebration of World Penguin Day, the Dyer Island Conservation Trust proudly joined hands with Marine Coastal Conservation for a collaborative beach clean-up at Hermanus New Harbour. With the theme “Celebrating and Safeguarding South Africa’s Penguins”, the event focused on raising awareness and taking action to protect the endangered African Penguin and its marine environment.
The clean-up, which aimed to reduce the amount of litter—especially plastic—that ends up in our oceans, drew the support of numerous local organisations including CapeNature, Overberg Municipality, the Democratic Alliance, and over 80 enthusiastic volunteers. Together, this committed group managed to collect an incredible 700 kilograms of waste, most of its recyclable plastic.
During the event, Sanchia Chivell shared insights into the African Penguin & Seabird Sanctuary’s (APSS) crucial work. She explained what members of the public should do when encountering a stranded penguin or seabird and encouraged locals to get involved as volunteers. Her message emphasized the importance of collaboration between NGOs to achieve shared conservation goals and highlighted the strength that comes from working together.
In addition to cleaning the beach, community members generously donated old towels, sheets, and newspapers to the APSS—items that play an essential role in the care and rehabilitation of rescued seabirds.
This World Penguin Day celebration was more than just a clean-up—it was a reminder of the positive change we can bring about when communities unite for a common cause: protecting the precious wildlife and ecosystems that make our coastline so unique.
