Stranded Marine Animal Rescue Team

20/07/2025

Yesterday, 19 July, we took part in an organised beach clean-up at Diaz Beach - and what an incredible day it was!🏖

Not only did we contribute to keeping our beautiful coastline clean and safe for both people and marine life, but we also walked away with 3rd place overall!🥉

A huge thank you to everyone who joined in and made a difference. Every bit of effort counts towards a healthier planet.💙

20/07/2025

SMART has been awarded a certificate of appreciation by the Garden Route SPCA in recognition of our 41 days of monitoring Columbo, and for our ongoing dedication to the welfare of marine animals.🏆

We are truly grateful for this acknowledgement. It’s a privilege to work alongside such passionate organisations in protecting and preserving our marine wildlife.💙

Thank you to the Garden Route SPCA for your support and shared commitment to animal welfare.🙏🏻

18/07/2025

Today, on Mandela Day, we were honoured to spend some time at Acvv Huis Loural - a truly special way to dedicate our 67 minutes of service! ♥️

It was a heartwarming morning filled with meaningful conversations, laughter, and connection. Thank you to the wonderful residents and staff who welcomed us so warmly. 🙏🏻

17/07/2025

LAST DAY TO VOTE! 🦭🐢🐋🐬

We’re incredibly honoured to be nominated for Best Community Organisation in the Professional Services category of Best of Mossel Bay! 💙

Today is your last chance to help S.M.A.R.T. take home this incredible recognition. If you believe in our mission to protect and educate about Mossel Bay’s precious coastal wildlife, please take a moment to vote for us. 🌊

Every single vote makes a difference - and today it really counts!

🗳️ Vote here:
🔗 https://www.bestofsouthafrica.co.za/mossel-bay/bom-voting-category-services/

Thank you for standing with us, for believing in what we do, and for helping us get this far. Let’s finish strong! 💪

VOTE Professional Services CATEGORYVote for your favourite businesses in this category.IMPORTANT: You can only vote in this main category ONCE and won't be able to come back to this page after clicking on Submit, so make sure to select your favourites in all of the sub categories before submitting y...

15/07/2025

S.M.A.R.T wants to acknowledge the support and assistance from Vic Bay resident Andre Boshoff, who walked many extra miles to help us keep Columbo the elephant seal safe. Andre became our early morning scout; before 7:00 he would receive a two word communication from us: ‘Nog daar?’ (‘Still there?’). For 41 days he sent a one-word reply: ‘Yes’. We then knew we’d have to organise a roster for our Smarties to work in shifts. But there’s more: at sundown he would remove the cones and carry them home to keep safe. By dawn he repositioned them to show where Columbo had moved to during the night. Andre, we salute your dedication to keeping this precious animal safe, even though you’re not an ‘official’ volunteer. You always had a smile, made us laugh at your ‘Seal rides’ poster and above all, we knew we could rely on you. A true conservation warrior!

14/07/2025

Columbo left Vic Bay
Beach!

Our 41 day learning curve while monitoring an elephant seal. Columbo hauled out on the 3rd June and settled down for a very long autumn/winter rest at Victoria Bay, a surfers’ paradise, tourist hot-spot, local and up-country visitors ‘must visit’ beach! Columbo was completely camouflaged between the rocks and it was imperative that he be monitored for his, and the publics’, safety.

SMART volunteers watched over him for 41 days, with help on 2 days from Oceans Research. During this time Columbo slept, yawned, scratched, roared, play-fought and bit rocks and tree trunks, and slept a lot more!

Concerned about the play-fighting behaviour Dr Greg Hofmeyr brought large traffic cones, and they became his new favourite toy.

Smarties monitored in sun, wind and rain, and spoke to hundreds of people about ellie seals in general and Columbo in particular.

A lot can, and does, happen in 41 days. A bakkie with passengers experienced brake-failure and sped down the hill, narrowly missing the restaurant deck, but completely demolishing the outdoor shower rotunda that surfers use. Columbo was very agitated by the noise of trucks and machines clearing the rubble. Inebriated people became verbally abusive about their right to walk where they want and go as close as they want, to a large wild animal.

A number of scientists, vets and seal specialists visited Columbo to assess his condition and behaviour. Emails were sent all over the world explaining his almost-obsessive attitude to inanimate objects and asking for advice. Almost unanimously the replies were against relocation to a quieter beach, definitely vehemently opposed to euthanasia, and encourament to let him rest at his own pace and time.

That turned out to be FORTY ONE days!!!! We have learnt the meaning of patience, perseverance and persistence. Columbo’s goofy smile and huge eyes have enchanted so many people; he has touched many hearts, has been photographed countless times and left a lasting impression on all who saw him. Head south, big lad, swim strongly and enjoy some good seafood!

12/07/2025

It’s now been 40 days since Columbo, the elephant seal, chose Victoria Bay as his resting spot. While his presence has brought much joy and fascination, we sadly need to address a serious concern. 🦭

There have been incidents of harassment by certain members of the public. We wish to remind everyone that Columbo is a wild animal who requires space, peace, and rest. Disturbing him is not only unethical - it’s also a criminal offence under marine wildlife protection laws. ‼️

We are working closely with law enforcement and conservation authorities to ensure Columbo’s safety. Anyone found interfering with or harassing him will be reported and may face legal action. 👮

🙏🏻 Please:
• Keep your distance (at least 20–30 metres)
• Keep dogs on leads
• Do not shout, touch, or attempt to feed him
• Respect any signage or barriers in place

Thank you to everyone who continues to share in the wonder of Columbo respectfully. Together, we can ensure he remains safe during his stay. 💙