An eight-year-old boy from Cape Town has been recognised for his swift action in rescuing trapped fish from an illegal gill net in the Zandvlei Nature Reserve.
On May 9, while on a neighbourhood watch patrol with his father, Angelo Brown, young Luke Brown noticed fish struggling in the Keysers River. Upon closer inspection, they discovered a gill net illegally stretched across the river, ensnaring several fish. With the assistance of neighbour Dion Coetzee, they carefully removed the net, freeing 18 fish, including indigenous species like elf and leervis, as well as invasive species such as tilapia and catfish.
The use of gill nets is prohibited under the Citys Recreational Water Use By-law of 2018, which allows only rod-and-reel fishing with specific limitations. These regulations aim to protect the ecological integrity of areas like Zandvlei, a vital fish nursery and habitat for diverse species, including the endangered Western Leopard Toad.
In recognition of his environmental efforts, Luke received a certificate from Ward Councillor Carolynne Franklin, who praised his initiative and compassion. Lukes father noted his sons deep appreciation for nature , sharing that Luke felt proud to have contributed to the well-being of the local ecosystem.