Memories not things
Some time ago, following a couple of stressful house moves, my family and I declared that we were done with the collecting of “stuff”, fuelled by a combination of moving boxes that remained unpacked with the contents unmissed for over 4 years, along with a greater understanding of and respect for sustainability.
We decided that, as keen world travellers, from now on experiences and the making of memories were far more important to us and that these would become our gifts to each other going forward.
Fast forward to my birthday in June and along with my husband and a couple of very close friends I travelled to one of my favourite places in the world, in the shadows of the Waterberg Mountains in South Africa and took part in a Rhino Intervention and Relocation Experience.
The plan was the immobilisation, identification, microchipping, DNA profiling and then relocation of three female rhino, to a new reserve where the breeding programs of these magnificent but hugely endangered animals can be improved.
Due to the issue of poaching, everything is kept under wraps until the very last minute especially when rhino are moving locations. So, as we set out last Wednesday morning the tension was absolutely palpable as the location came over the radio and we made our way straight there. What followed was one of the most adrenaline fuelled and emotionally charged moments of my entire life.
As the dust of the winter bushveld swirled, disturbed by the blades of the low flying helicopter, the outlines of the other vehicles blurred into focus, as the team of conservation guides, veterinary students and wildlife movement specialists jumped out and immediately got to work.
Initially this looked like utter chaos as the two rhino that were first being immobilised separated at speed. As we were called on to help and took up our places to help push a sedated circa 1.5 tonne rhino UPHILL, we witnessed what I can only describe as the most incredible bit of teamwork I have ever experienced. The skill, knowledge and sheer passion of everyone involved was exceptional, especially Andy the head vet, who took multi-tasking to astronomical levels, overseeing the two animals at once, managing a large team in dangerous conditions and with very limited time, whilst calmly and informatively talking us through everything he did and encouraging us to be hands on.
Once the animals were loaded into the transport and on their way to their new home, we travelled behind in near silence as we took in everything that had happened, feeling pretty emotional.
Not only will I cherish this memory forever, privileged to have played a small part in it but I will remain in absolute awe of Andy and what can be accomplished with passion and an amazing team.
