Good rains fell in certain parts of country, by elsewhere the drought continues. We hope and pray that those areas will also receive rain, as well as additional rain for those regions that require follow up rain.
Firearms amnesty
The current news focuses on the firearms amnesty announced by the Minister of Police in November 2019. We kept members informed about developments in recent weeks. Please remain cautious about the amnesty. Members wishing to hand in firearms of which the licences expired, are advised to make all the necessary preparations to conclude the process properly.
When handing in a firearm, you will be expected to sign documentation in which you agree to relinquish the firearm, giving the state the right to destroy it.
We suspect that the purpose of the amnesty is for people to hand in their firearms, and when applying for a new licence, the SAPS will refuse. Should this happen and the firearm has been forfeited, it will be destroyed without compensation.
Old green licences
Firearm owners that only have the old green licence and never applied for renewal, are safe and do not have to do anything as these licences are still valid.
Renewed licences that expired
If you have a new licence that has expired, you are technically in illegal possession of a firearm. Keep it locked away in your safe and do not use it unless it is absolutely essential. Do not drive with the firearm in your car.
Be extra cautious if you applied for renewal of your licence but never received it. Because you never received it, do not assume that it has never been issued. Some members found out that a renewal licence has been issued – even though they never received it – which has by now also expired. Do not assume that the old green licence is still valid just because you never received a new licence.
Competency
Check the validity of your competency. Apply for a renewal immediately if it expired. Without valid competency, SAPS will not issue a licence. If you are not sure if your competency is valid, enquire at your DFO and also check for which type of firearms it is valid.
The Natshoot court application on the amnesty against the Police, was settled, with the understanding that firearm owners handing in their firearms under the amnesty with a view to apply for a new licence, may apply simultaneously for a renewal or a new competency certificate.
The GOSA Interdict
The GOSA application against SAPS in July 2018, prohibiting the Police from confiscating firearms of which the licences had expired from the owners, still stands. The Police’s appeal against the judgement was late, but they have started steps for an acquittal. Should they succeed, the protection offered by the GOSA interdict will fall away.
Hunting affairs
Foot and Mouth
We received queries from concerned members about the effect of Foot and Mouth on hunting destinations and the transport of game and game carcasses in and around Limpopo. A notice in the Government Gazette of 4 December 2019, placed a national ban on stock auctions. This ban includes the trade, transport and move of all split-hoofed animals from various properties and the subsequent distribution of such animals within a 28-day period. Read more about it here. Also read frequently asked questions about foot and mouth here.
There is little impact on hunters wanting to book hunting destinations. In response to questions in this regard, Dr. Leana Janse van Rensburg (State veterinarian for disease control at the Directorate for Animal Health)) said hunters may hunt en transport game carcasses (with the necessary documentation e.g. permits) from farms and other areas that are not under quarantine, but they may not transport the head, feet, skin and entrails. Hunters may not transport the meat of hunted game from a farm that is under quarantine.
We recommend that hunters enquire at the local offices of the state veterinarian to find out which farms are under quarantine and what the restrictions are. The contact details of the offices of local state veterinarians are available here.
Read the advice from Dr Tertius Bergh, an independent meat inspection consultant here
The recent newsletter of the Department of Agriculture, Land Reform and Rural Development (DALRRD) includes a map of region that are infected with foot and mouth. Land-owners and hunters are advised to consider this information when booking hunts.
Hunting opportunity sponsored by Archers Rock Safaris
Archers Rock Safaris offered a hunting opportunity to the value of R50 000 that members can win with a lottery ticket of R50. The hunting package is available for either rifle, bow or a combination of both. It includes:
One kudu bull up to 52 inch, one blue wildebeest bull up to 29 inches, two impala rams up to 22 inches, and one warthog with up to 12 inch tusks; free accommodation in five star lodge for two hunters or one hunter and one guest for four nights and five hunting days; and a free spa treatment. All meals, transport, cool room facilities and guides are included.
The hunting destination is in the Gravelotte region and available between 1 July and 30 October 2020. Read more about this offer from Archers Rock Safaris here.
To stand a chance to win this prize:
- Transfer R50 or multiple amounts of R50 (for more chances to win) electronically to the bank account of SA Hunters at ABSA, account number 01443990077.
- Use your mobile phone number and Archers as reference.
Entries close on 15 June 2020. SA Hunter will use your mobile phone number for the lucky draw.
Direct any queries to Boetie Kirchner at boetiek@sahunt.co.za
Wild pig permits
The DALRRD extended its authorisation to SA Hunters’ members to issue transport permits for processed wild pig carcasses and meat in 2020. This approval is granted in terms of Regulation 20 in the Animal Diseases Act, No 35 of 1984.
Registration of farms
Any member of SA Hunters that is a land-owner and wishes to issue permits, can register his farm. These applications for registration are done electronically on the members personal profile on A Hunters online member administration system. Complete the application on the website, print it out and sign it. Scan the document and send by e-mail to SA Hunters for approval. A copy will be sent to the Directorate Animal Health for its records. Applicants will receive confirmation that they may start issuing pig permits. The applicant and SA Hunters each, retains a copy of the application.
Research
SA Hunters undertook to assist the Faculty of Veterinary Science at the University of Pretoria with research on the possible spread of Africa Swine Fever. Each person applying to register his/her farm to issue transport permits, can indicate if they are willing to take and send blood samples of hunted pigs to SA Hunters. Their assistance can help to determine if Africa Swine Fever has spread outside the known area. This arrangement will continue in 2020.
Buffalo hunt
Following the popularity of the buffalo hunting in 2019, SA Hunters acquired a few new opportunities for a buffalo hunt (cows). Because of the popularity last year, the Board agreed interested parties can have their names listed on a waiting list at R500 per person. Transfer R500 to the bank account of SA Hunters at ABSA, account number 01443990077. Use Buffelkoei as reference.
More information is available from Boetie Kirchner by boetiek@sahunt.co.za
Hunting of problem animals
SA Hunters discussed the hunting of problem animals with the provinces (Limpopo and Mpumalanga) in areas where these animals escape reserves and might cause problems in surrounding communities. These hunting opportunities are only available at very short notice of about two days, and these animals must be destroyed as soon as possible.
Members that are interested in hunting problem animals, can add their names to a waiting list at R500 per person. Transfer R500 to the bank account of SA Hunters at ABSA, account number 01443990077. Use our mobile phone number and Probleemdier as reference..
More information is available from Boetie Kirchner at boetiek@sahunt.co.za
Shooting affairs
Shooting Summit 2020: SA Hunters held a shooting summit at Inyathi Park, Pretoria on 31 January and 1 February 2020. Basie Bergh (Deputy President) was the chairman. The regional coordinators and one delegate per branch were invited to attend. These delegates were active shottists to ensure that they made a meaningful contribution to the discussions.
A variety of important matters were discussed, and work sessions were held. Decisions were taken by voting. We received positive feedback and we are confident that the shooting summit was a success. Feedback on this meeting will be added to the website soon.
Invitation to Australia
The Sport Shooters Association of Australia sent an open invitation to SA Hunters’ members to participate in the biennial Big Game Rifle Shoot in Darwin on 12 en 13 September 2020.
This invitation and the rules are available here. Shottists do not have to take their own rifles to Australia because they can hire rifles there. Anyone interested in this event, can contact Nic Roets at nic@sahunt.co.za The Shooting Committee will coordinate the entries. Shottists are encouraged to participate and support this event, which can contribute in strengthening our ties with the SSAA.
Conservation
Rare and shy species
Members can add to a database on the distribution of rare and shy species by completing information on SA Hunters’ website.
Click on Animal Sightings to the left of the member profile on the website. Add information about rare and shy species that you have come across. This information can assist in a better understanding of the distribution and conservation of these species.
In the first phase of this project, the focus is to gather information about the distribution of species that are not constrained by game fences on game farms and of which little information is known. This may include the rare black-footed cat and pangolins.
Some problem animal species are also listed because of allegations that their distribution areas are increasing. Other listed species include owls. Such information can assist in collecting data for other projects that SA Hunters is involved with.
This is also the first step in the introduction of a mobile phone application to collect species data, which will be expanded over time to include general wildlife. Members are called upon to cooperate in the development of the first national distribution data system for ordinary and huntable game.
The system is currently being tested on our website but should be available on mobile phones later this year. Members are requested to make recommendations to the manager conservation, Lizanne Nel, on the use of this system during the testing phase.
Memorial publication
The publication of our Memorial book has been delayed due to design and production difficulties, but it should be available by the end of March. We apologise for the inconvenience. The final proof looks fantastic!
The book is in A4 format and available in two versions: one with an ordinary cover at R300 per copy, and a luxury version bound in buffalo leather at R1000 a copy of which only 100 copies will be available.
To order your copy:
- Transfer the correct amount (R300 for the ordinary version or R1 000 for leather bound version) in SA Hunters’ bank account at Absa, account number 01443990077.
- Use your member number and Book as reference. Check that you enter your member number correctly to ensure that we can process your order.
Training
SA Hunters in collaboration with the Wildlife College offer training in the hunting of dangerous game. Only members with dedicated hunter status qualify. Each course can accommodate six persons to allow personal attention to each trainee. The course costs R4 000 per person and includes training in two species. The first two people that enrol, will determine which species are covered, e.g. Elephant and Buffalo. Training is available for Elephant, Buffalo, Lion, Leopard, Hippopotamus and Crocodile.
The Wildlife College provides the following equipment: a camp kitchen, camping chairs, cooking utensils, crockery, cutlery and a grill. Safe storage facilities for groceries are available to keep out the baboons. Other facilities include a water tank, toilet, shower and solar power lanterns. NB: trainees must bring along their own firewood, ice, fridge, food and beverages.
In some instances, accommodation is available, while trainees of other courses will have to provide their own accommodation. Course type 1: Six trainees live in three tents, each equipped with two camping beds and mattresses. Course type 2: Six trainees provide their own tents, mattresses, camping beds or mobile accommodation.
For more information, contact Liesel at (012) 808 9325 or liesel@sahunt.co.za
NB: Interested person must have dedicated hunter status.
Course dates for 2020
2 – 5 April (x 6 places open) (Thursday 12h00 to Sunday 12h00) (Type 2)
23 – 26 April (x 6 places open) (Thursday 12h00 to Sunday 12h00) (Type 2)
30 April – 3 May (x 6 places open) (Thursday 12h00 to Sunday 12h00) (Type 2)
28 – 31 May (x 6 places open) (Thursday 12h00 to Sunday 12h00) (Type 2)
4 – 7 June (x 6 places open) (Thursday 12h00 to Sunday 12h00) (Type 2)
25 – 28 June (x 6 places open) (Thursday 12h00 to Sunday 12h00) (Type 2)
2 – 5 July (x 6 places open) (Thursday 12h00 to Sunday 12h00) (Type 1)
6 – 9 July (x 6 places open) (Monday 12h00 to Thursday 12h00) (Type 1)
9 – 12 July (x 6 places open) (Thursday 12h00 to Sunday 12h00) (Type 1)
13 – 16 July (x 6 places open) (Monday 12h00 to Thursday 12h00) (Type 1)
16 – 19 July (x 6 places open) (Thursday 12h00 to Sunday 12h00) (Type 1)
20 – 23 July (x 6 places open) (Monday 12h00 to Thursday 12h00) (Type 1)
23 – 26 July (x 6 places open) (Thursday 12h00 to Sunday 12h00) (Type 1)
27 – 30 July (x 6 places open) (Monday 12h00 to Thursday 12h00) (Type 1)
30 Jul – 2 Aug (x 6 places open) (Thursday 12h00 to Sunday 12h00) (Type 1)
6 – 9 Aug (x 6 places open) (Thursday 12h00 to Sunday 12h00) (Type 2)
27 – 30 Aug (x 6 places open) (Thursday 12h00 to Sunday 12h00) (Type 2)
3 – 6 Sep (x 6 places open) (Thursday 12h00 to Sunday 12h00) (Type 2)
24 – 27 Sep (x 6 places open) (Thursday 12h00 to Sunday 12h00) (Type 2)
Supply the following information with your booking and payment of the course fee:
- Name and surname
- Member number
- Number of dedicated hunter status
- Phone number
- Preferred date for booking
See the short video that gives an idea of what to expect during this training.
Hand delivery of SA Hunter
The SA Hunter magazine can be delivered at your home. It is far more reliable than the Post Office. These deliveries are only possible in larger towns and cities.
Please check that your residential address is correct on the member administration system and send an e-mail to admin@sahunt.co.za
We are aware that there are problems with the hand delivery in some instances. Please report problems to admin@sahunt.co.za and explain the problem. We will ask Media24 to attend to it.
SA Hunter (magazine) shooting opportunities in 2020
Our magazine, SA Hunter will present two special shooting events in 2020. These include:
- A special shotgun shoot at the Wattle Springs shooting range on 22 February 2020, sponsored by Inyathi Sporting Supplies. Entries are open now.
- A gong shoot at Jan Staal du Toit’s shooting range between Ermelo and Amersfoort on 9 May 2020, sponsored by Safari Outdoor. Excellent prizes can be won.
More information about these two events are available here.
Membership
The membership of SA Hunters was 41 975 paid up members on 3 February 2020. Members that do not pay, are blocked. We trust that we will retain these members and unblock them soon.
Recruit members for commission
The Board agreed that a member or a branch that recruits ten or more members per year, can earn commission of between R100 to R150 per member. More information is available here.
The Board also decided to appoint agents to recruit new members for the Association. If you are aware of anyone that is not a member of SA Hunters and that travels regularly, and that might be interested in recruiting members, ask them to send their contact details, residential address, the areas in which they travel, and the opportunities that they might have to recruit members for commission, to fredc@sahunt.co.za
Ivory project
The Doctari ivory knife project is back on track after we fell behind with orders and deliveries. This project entails the production of knives with ivory handles from the Nico van Rooyen ivory stock. Only 150 knives will be made. Place your order as soon as possible to avoid disappointment. 100 knives have already been ordered.
Transfer R5 500 in the bank account of SA Hunters at Absa, account number 01443990077; branch code 632005. Use Knife and your mobile number as reference. Please send the proof of payment to admin@sahunt.co.za
Commercial affairs
In November 2019, SA Hunters signed an agreement with Humansdorp Koöperasie for the benefit of members. In January 2020, at least four members each bought a Zastava 9,3 X 62 at very good prices. This is an excellent offer.
The agreement states that members receive 5% special discount on the purchase of a range of hunting shooting products.
The following deal is valid for February:
On any Lothar Walther buy 10%+5% = 15% discount
On any Bartlein and Broughton barrel 5%+5% = 10% discount
- Visit the following websites for more information:
- humkoop.co.za
- co.za
- co.za
- Place orders telephonically or with e-mail.
- You must be a paid-up member and provide your member number to enable Humansdorp Koöperasie to check your status.
- Place your orders with Eduan du Toit, Cheryl Coetzee or Riaan Vermaak at any of the following numbers ore –mail addresses:
- Telephone numbers
- (042) 2910431
- (042) 2951501
- Telephone numbers
- iii. (042) 2951082
- E-mail addresses
Your order will be dispatched by courier or other delivery method as soon as the money has been received.
- The following providers offer benefits and discounts to SA Hunters’ members.
- Humansdorp Koöperasie
- Toyota SA
- Westvaal Nelspruit
- Wildman Hunting and Outdoor
- Hokaai Slaghuis
- Die Wildshoekie Vleismark
- LAVA Vakuumverpakking
- Selftrack
- MAINSU Kragopwekkers
- Cens Digital Gehoorbeskerming
- Uitlaatstelle van De Graaf Autosentrum in Van der Hoffweg Pretoria
- Helle-messe
- Nitecore Flitse
- Fitch and Leedes
- Otterskloof
- Cassie Nienaber – Ladingontwikkeling en Herlaai
- Archers Rock Safaris
Click here for more information about any of the above-mentioned benefits..
HuntEx
HuntEx2020 will be held from 24 to 27 April 2020. Diarise this event and make sure you do not miss this opportunity.
Eden Lost and Regained
Footprint Press will be reprinting one of the old books on the history of the early day hunters. The book Eden Lost and Regained, by Paddy Cartwright gives a good description of South Africa before the Jan van Riebeeck period until after 1900, when the Kruger National Park was proclaimed as the Sabi and Singwitsi conservation areas. He describes the mass migration of springbuck in 1896 when an estimated 10 million springbuck moved through Beaufort West. The herd was described to be 183 miles long and 13 miles wide.
The book is available from Footprint Press at R500 per copy, including postage. SA Hunters and Footprint Press agreed that members can purchase the book at 25% discount. Place your order with david@footprintpress.co.za and give our member number as reference.
There are 20 books available at the national office. Contact Realda Goosen at realda@sahunt.co.za to order one of these books at the discounted price.
IWFF hunting opportunity
The IWWF is offering four hunting opportunities that can be won in a lucky draw. Tickets are available at R50 per ticket. This is a good chance to win a cheap hunting opportunity. More information is available here.
Photo Competition
SA Hunters’ annual photo competition will go ahead in 2020. The purpose of the competition is to compile a portfolio of the best photographs that our members have taken during the year. We will upload the photographs on our website and use it in presentations and advertisements at events such as the gala evening of our annual congress.
At the end of each month, we will choose photographs to add to our portfolio and publish them on www.sahunters.co.za Gold, silver and bronze certificates will be awarded to the best photographs.
Our sponsor donated a new camera for the winner of the best photograph. The prize will be handed over to the winner during the congress gala evening at the end of the year. We are also trying to obtain more prizes for different categories.
Our categories for the 2020 competition are:
- Our Heritage. Any landscape, plant or animal life (including birds and insects) that represents our country and neighboring countries natural heritage.
- Hunting field. Photos depicting people or animals’ hunting experiences and actions. Please remember that this category does not include photos of hunted animals. Send those photos to the magazine’s Bokspog.
- Man in Nature. Any photos where people interact with nature.
Read here how to enter.
Kind regards
Fred Camphor
SA Hunters: CEO
