With support from the Friends of the Biosphere programme, the Still Bay Conservation Trust Hacking Group carried out an invasive plant removal project in Still Bay, Hessequa to tackle Australian myrtle.
Australian myrtle is a fast-spreading invasive shrub that threatens the town’s indigenous vegetation by out-competing native plants and changing local habitats. If left unchecked, it can quickly take hold and reduce biodiversity across sensitive sites.
On 1 September 2025 a mulching machine was commissioned to destroy the Australian Myrtle trees. Care was taken to prevent the mulch from contaminating surrounding land by erecting a canvas wall in front of the machine. The footprint of the bushes left two clearances of approximately 15×15 meters and 7×7 meters.
Moving forward, the team will inspect the area regularly and remove any new seedlings by hand to prevent re-establishment.
We are immensely proud to have supported the Still Bay Conservation Trust Hacking Group as they carried out this hands-on work to protect Still Bay’s indigenous vegetation and help conserve the area for future generations.
Organiser: Still Bay Conservation Trust Hacking Group
Project Category: Environmental Rehabilitation
Project Period: August – September 2025
Municipality: Hessequa
Small Grant Awarded: R5000
