Dear SMART Members and Friends,
This week brought recognition, rescue, environmental action, and exciting anniversary news!
SMART Honored at Glenwood College
On Thursday, August 21st, SMART was honored to be chosen by Grade 8 learner Bailey Goodger as her community organization for Glenwood College’s Ductus Excellentiam Challenge. Bailey presented a superb display highlighting SMART’s activities, with our beloved mascot Sammy the Turtle making a special appearance. Val entertained the learners throughout the morning while Carly stayed close by to ensure Sammy didn’t stumble over her own feet. Well done, Bailey – your presentation was absolutely top-class!
Dramatic Rescue: Meet “Joker”
Friday, August 22nd brought a heartbreaking but ultimately hopeful rescue at Dana Bay. A severely entangled yearling seal was reported, emaciated and very weak from fishline that had become a “crows nest” around her body. Mario successfully rescued her while Elzan also responded to the call.
At Hartenbos Animal Hospital, Dr. de Graaff carefully removed the extensive fishing line that had cut so deeply into the seal’s neck it had become ingrown. The line had also cut into both sides of her mouth, earning her the name “Joker” (movie fans will appreciate the reference!).
Saturday morning brought exceptional care as Dr. Frans, his wife, and daughter Sr. Stefanie personally transported Joker to Tsitsikamma, where Dr. Greg Hofmeyr took over her rehabilitation at Bayworld. This level of personal attention – like receiving a home visit from your GP – demonstrates the special medical care given to our special patients.
Environmental Action
Saturday, August 23rd saw Tersia and Meehika representing SMART at a Pest Police organized beach clean-up at the Point. Their efforts were rewarded with two prizes – thank you for representing SMART so well! Beach clean-ups are an essential part of our mission to keep marine environments clean and safe for all wildlife.
🎉 10th Anniversary Gala Evening! 🎉
Save the date: Saturday, October 11th for our 10th Anniversary Gala Evening! Tickets are now on sale – visit our Facebook page (link below) for full details. It’s going to be a truly grand celebration of a decade of marine wildlife protection and rescue!
https://www.facebook.com/share/167qs9z3aV
Support S.M.A.R.T. through the Woolworths App
Woolworths no longer issues physical cards or forms – everything is now done conveniently on your phone. Please follow these easy steps to support Stranded Marine Animals Rescue Team:
- Download the Woolworths App
- Register if you don’t have a card, or log in if you already do
- At the bottom of the screen, select “Loyalty”
- Then choose “Join myDifference” (this is the new name for the Causes programme)
- Tap “Get Started” and follow the prompts (you’ll enter your ID, personal details, accept the T&Cs, and finish setup)
- Then select “Explore Loyalty Hub” – you should now see your card number and barcode (this is what you scan at Woolworths)
- Go to Causes, then select “Choose my own”
- Under Environment, scroll until you find Stranded Marine Animals Rescue Team, then tap Add
Your support makes a difference every time you shop at Woolies! Thank you for helping us save our precious marine wildlife.
Until next week, The SMART Team
IMPORTANT REMINDER: Never approach, touch, or attempt to return stranded marine animals to the water. Always call SMART responders and keep a safe distance while waiting for trained personnel to arrive.