Is Betty’s Bay at a crossroads, or perhaps a tipping point? As we reflect on the challenges and opportunities ahead, it’s also the season for members to renew their annual fees. Full details and payment information are included in this edition of the newsletter.

The June edition includes an update on the Stony Point penguin colony, light pollution, our resident bokkies and the effects of speeding on the R44 (some sensitive pictures), environmental grief, and an update on the Environmental Alliance of the Greater Overstrand.

May brings fresh challenges and insights for Betty’s Bay! This update covers storm recovery, owl conservation follow-ups, community surveys at Stony Point, and reflections on how our daily choices affect the biosphere. You’ll also find quirky local observations, conservation news, and progress on the R44 speeding petition. A mix of practical updates and thought‑provoking reads, don’t miss it.

Storms, owls, shells, and sea hares — April in Betty’s Bay has it all! This edition covers the wild winter storm damage, Mike the Owl Box Man and his owl-saving mission, Pete Oxford’s beach walk for the City Nature Challenge, and fascinating insights into nautilus shells and sea hares. You’ll also find updates on the Stony Point survey, a witty field guide to dog-walking habits, reflections on biosphere living, and the urgent R44 speeding petition.

Discover what’s happening in Betty’s Bay! From the upcoming City Nature Challenge and owl box talk, to updates on Stony Point penguins, oystercatcher breeding stats, and the inspiring Overstrand Eco Indaba, this edition is packed with conservation news, community action, and even a heartfelt reminder to see our town through the eyes of travellers. Plus, meet local conservation champion Pete Oxford and learn quirky facts about the kelp limpet.

This newsletter focuses on some aspects of the Kogelberg Biosphere e.g. how can we live here as custodians of this unique place and what in Betty’s Bay do we want to pass on to future generations?

It also features the much debated and varied spectrum of opinions on the speed limit on Clarence Drive though Betty’s Bay. It has been interesting to hear people express their views. One person went as far as openly belittling fellow residents who choose to drive slower than 80km/h through our village in the Biosphere.

It also contains other interesting articles.

Part of our first newsletter of 2026 looks back at some of the situations that happened with wildlife on our beaches and roads over the busy holiday season.

Thanks to the Oystercatcher monitors for keeping a watch on the breeding pairs and chicks on the beaches, the Rehab Centre for all the patients they looked after and the BBBAG and monitors for watching the troop during an influx of people and cars.

We urgently need to address the speeding on the R44, beyond the recent short 60 km zone in Betty’s Bay.

Read the newsletter to understand why this is so important.