south coast tourism and investment enterprise

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New investment enterprise to boost kzn south coast tourism.

A new venture called South Coast Tourism and Investment Enterprise (SCTIE) is set to give the KZN South Coast a much needed tourism boost.

KZN South Coast a ‘region of unlimited potential and opportunities’

The launch of the South Coast Tourism and Investment Enterprise (SCTIE) took place recently, and the initiative aims to do a lot for the KZN South Coast area.

The SCTIE is a partnership undertaken by Ugu South Coast Tourism (USCT) and Ugu South Coast Development Agency (USCDA) to optimise service delivery, enhance efficiencies and cut costs. Some of the main functions of SCTIE include tourism growth and investment attraction. The venture will also operate as the local tourism authority representing tourism businesses in the South Coast region.

The Tourism and Investment Enterprise also aims to showcase the KZN South Coast as an accessible, year-round, leisure destination of choice in South Africa, with a wide range of nature and outdoor experiences, both land and water-based.

The region will be highlighted as a premier beach destination with the added bonus of rich culture and heritage, value-for-money and family-friendly offerings.

According to IOL , South Coast Tourism and Investment Enterprise chairperson, Dr Sipho Nzimande, said that the region has unlimited potential and opportunities. The formulation, then, of the South Coast Tourism and Investment Enterprise as the official economic development arm will allow them to identify and unlock the full tourism and investment potential of this region.

Agri-CULTURE farm tours

In another bid to boost tourism in the area, Ugu South Coast Tourism (USCT) also launched the KZN South Coast Agri-CULTURE farm tours venture back in March this year. Read more about it here .

ALSO READ: KZN North Coast: Beautiful beaches you HAVE to visit

Sundeeka Mungroo

Sundeeka Mungroo is a content writer, foodie and all-round adventure-seeker. She's a graduate of the University of South Africa with a Bachelor of Arts degree in English Literature, and has worked as a copywriter and editor in the digital marketing industry. Sundeeka currently writes for I Love South Africa and The South African. She lives in the beautiful Mother City and loves exploring all that South Africa has to offer.

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LADY LEADERS DRIVE SOUTH COAST INVESTMENT

“The formation of South Coast Tourism and Investment Enterprise (SCTIE) is an exciting new chapter for the region’s development, as it combines the expertise and resources of two entities for a more unified and effective vision. We are working to market the region’s tourism and investment offerings while eradicating barriers to these along the way,” said the newly formed organisation’s CEO Phelisa Mangcu.

She is one of two women at the helm of an organisation that was officially launched a month ago, bringing together the former Ugu South Coast Tourism (USCT) and the Ugu South Coast Development Agency (USCDA).

Working alongside Investment and Development Manager, Nkululeko Hlongwane, and a dynamic team, Phelisa said she was steering SCIE, which is now the official economic development arm of the region, towards optimising service delivery, enhancing efficiencies and driving the economy of the KZN South Coast.

A single mother-of-four, Phelisa has brought a wealth of global tourism experience to the KZN South Coast, having worked in the tourism sector in Washington DC in the United States in the early 1990s. In 1999, she returned to South Africa where she took on a position in the tourism unit at IDC (Industrial Development Corporation), before relocating to JHB Tourism.

In 2018, Phelisa made the bold decision to relocate with her four daughters to the KZN South Coast where she relished the opportunity to grow the local tourism and investment offerings. She was appointed the CEO position of (the then) USCT, which allowed her to continue improving the lives of South African citizens and showcasing the beauty of the country to the world.

“This was my first time working in a more rural, coastal setting as I’d only worked in big cities prior to this. I was so warmly welcomed into the community at Shelly Beach and have been astounded at the amazing tourism opportunities that await visitors here. I’m honoured to be in a position to work closely with the local businesses, provincial and national stakeholders to achieve our goals of placing the KZN South Coast on the global map,” said Phelisa.

Working with her team, Phelisa has enjoyed the task of growing tourism in the region by unlocking the potential of the unique tourism offerings – Blue Flag beaches, two world-renowned dive sites, 11 quality golf courses, two iconic gorges, the world’s smallest desert, the Sardine Run and endless nature reserves.

Despite the challenges of Covid-19, floods and riots in KZN, Phelisa’s leadership has resulted in massive rural tourism development, adding to the diversity of experiences found along the KZN South Coast. The Agri-GULTURE Tours, KwaNzimakwe Multi-Trails, Umzumbe River Trail, and the KwaXolo Caves are just some of the unique experiences that drive the local economy in rural areas. 

Fellow Shelly Beach resident, Nkululeko Hlongwane, shares this vision as Investment and Development Manager.

Born and raised in the small town of Estcourt in the KZN Midlands, Nkululeko has always been passionate about her home province and sharing its many wonders with the rest of the world. The mother-of-two quickly took to the KZN South Coast when she relocated to the area in 2013.

This passion is backed by a solid educational foundation, having received a Postgraduate Diploma in Local Economic Development from University of KwaZulu-Natal (UKZN), Bachelor of Technology in Management, Diploma in Community Extension, an Advanced Certificate in Project Management. 

She arrives in her latest role with 16 years of experience across various government and economic development fields. Some of her previous roles were at the Independent Development Trust (IDT), Department of Rural Development and Land Reform (DRDLR), Johannesburg ProductivitySA, and iSimangaliso Wetland Park Authority. She’s excited to take on the role of Investment and Development Manager for SCTIE, working with local and international stakeholders in promoting the region.

“As we are recovering from various shocks which affected the economic growth and job creation, my focus will be to ensure that, as the investor destination, we keep existing businesses and jobs in our area, while promoting business expansion and attracting new investment from both domestic and international investors,” said the driven Nkululeko. “We will ensure that the enterprise thrives, effectively becoming a one-stop shop for investment promotion and facilitation for the KZN South Coast through strong public-private partnership.”

Outside of her workplace duties, Nkululeko enjoys reading, travelling with her family, hiking in the region’s beautiful reserves and embarking on some extreme adventure activities!

Both ladies believe that SCTIE will position the KZN South Coast as an accessible, year-round, leisure destination of choice in South Africa with diverse nature and outdoor experiences both on land and in water, a premier beach destination, a value-for-money family destination and the perfect destination for small, intimate meetings and conferences.

Closely aligned with this will be attracting investment to the region across all sectors through pro-active packaging of investment opportunities, linking business and government as well as businesses with various sectors and value chains.

They intend marketing the region as a one-stop-shop for business support, opportunities and information. 

Also included on the organisation’s “to do” list is linking emerging businesses with funding opportunity agencies and attracting big businesses to the region either as independent investors or through facilitating partnerships between local corporates, foreign investors and local business.

Speaking at the launch of the new body last month, Dr Sipho Nzimande, chairperson of South Coast Tourism and Investment Enterprise said: “The KZN South Coast is a region of unlimited potential and opportunities, from tourism and agriculture through to film and real estate investments – there is incredible potential to turn this interest into a success. The formulation of the South Coast Tourism and Investment Enterprise as the official economic development arm will allow us to proactively identify and unlock the full tourism and investment potential of this region.”

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Impressive women head up tourism and investment enterprise

At the south coast tourism and investment enterprise's (sctie) helm are ceo phelisa mangcu, and investment and development manager, nkululeko hlongwane..

Following the amalgamation of Ugu South Coast Tourism (USCT) and Ugu South Coast Development Agency (USCDA), the newly formed South Coast Tourism and Investment Enterprise (SCTIE) has announced two impressive women at its helm; CEO Phelisa Mangcu, and Investment and Development Manager, Nkululeko Hlongwane.

Working alongside their dynamic team, Mangcu and Hlongwane are ensuring that SCTIE, as the official economic development arm of the region, optimises service delivery, enhances efficiencies, and drives the economy of the South Coast by positioning it as a prime tourism and investment destination.

A single mother-of-four, Mangcu has brought a wealth of global tourism experience to the South Coast, having worked in the tourism sector in Washington DC in the United States in the early 1990s. In 1999, she returned to South Africa where she took on a position in the tourism unit at IDC (Industrial Development Corporation), before relocating to Johannesburg Tourism.

In 2018, Mangcu made the bold decision to relocate with her four daughters to the South Coast where she relished the opportunity to grow the local tourism and investment offerings. She was appointed as the CEO of the then USCT, which allowed her to continue improving the lives of South African citizens and showcasing the beauty of the country to the world.

“This was my first time working in a more rural, coastal setting as I’d only worked in big cities prior to this. I was so warmly welcomed into the community at Shelly Beach and have been astounded at the amazing tourism opportunities that await visitors here. I’m honoured to be in a position to work closely with the local businesses, provincial, and national stakeholders to achieve our goals of placing the South Coast on the global map,” she said.

Working with her team, Mangcu has enjoyed the task of growing tourism in the region by unlocking the potential of the unique tourism offerings – Blue Flag beaches, two world-renowned dive sites, 11 quality golf courses, two iconic gorges, the world’s smallest desert, the Sardine Run and endless nature reserves.

Despite the challenges of Covid-19, floods, and riots in the province, Mangcu’s leadership has resulted in massive rural tourism development, adding to the diversity of experiences found along the South Coast. The ‘Agri-GULTURE’ Tours, KwaNzimakwe Multi-Trails, Umzumbe River Trail, and the KwaXolo Caves are just some of the unique experiences that drive the local economy in rural areas.

“The formation of SCTIE is an exciting new chapter for the region’s development, as it combines the expertise and resources of two entities for a more unified and effective vision. We are working to market the region’s tourism and investment offerings while eradicating barriers to these along the way,” said Mangcu.

Joining Mangcu on the SCTIE team is an enthusiastic manager and fellow Shelly Beach resident, Nkululeko Hlongwane.

Born and raised in the small town of Estcourt in the KZN Midlands, Hlongwane has always been passionate about her home province and sharing its many wonders with the rest of the world. The mother-of-two quickly took to the South Coast when she relocated to the area in 2013.

This passion is backed by a solid educational foundation, having received a Postgraduate Diploma in Local Economic Development from University of KwaZulu-Natal (UKZN), a Bachelor of Technology in Management, a Diploma in Community Extension, and an Advanced Certificate in Project Management.

She arrives in her latest role with 16 years of experience across various government and economic development fields. Some of her previous roles were at the Independent Development Trust (IDT), Department of Rural Development and Land Reform (DRDLR), Johannesburg ProductivitySA, and iSimangaliso Wetland Park Authority.

She is excited to take on the role of Investment and Development Manager for SCTIE, working with local and international stakeholders in promoting the region.

“As we are recovering from various shocks which affected the economic growth and job creation, my focus will be to ensure that, as the investor destination, we keep existing businesses and jobs in our area, while promoting business expansion and attracting new investment from both domestic and international investors. We will ensure that the enterprise thrives, effectively becoming a one-stop shop for investment promotion and facilitation for the KZN South Coast through a strong public-private partnership,” said Hlongwane.

Outside of her workplace duties, Hlongwane enjoys reading, travelling with her family, hiking in the region’s beautiful reserves, and embarking on some extreme adventure activities.

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Invest KZN South Coast

SCTIE continues to grow tourism investment potential on KZN South Coast

PRESS RELEASE For Immediate Attention 06 March 2024

Boasting the highest number of Blue Flag beaches in the province, as well as two world-class dive sites, adventure and extreme tourism offerings, Ugu District remains a top tourism destination. South Coast Tourism & Investment Enterprise (SCTIE) continues to develop these tourism products, expanding the tourism economy which brings with it significant investment opportunities.

“Our tourism assets have always been a major drawcard for visitors, but we’re now uncovering the significant investment potential they offer as well,” commented Deborah Ludick, Acting CEO of South Coast Tourism & Investment Enterprise (SCTIE). “Alongside our quality beaches and dive sites, the KZN South Coast offers visitors front-row seats to the annual Sardine Run, considered the planet’s greatest biomass migration. Beyond these, we’re developing our rural tourism assets which meet the growing tourism trend of unique experiences in nature that embrace local heritage.”

Rural investment options

One such example is the KwaXolo Caves Adventures, a guided heritage tour that uses a via Ferrata system to take visitors into a series of caves adorned with San artwork dating back centuries, set against a backdrop of gorge and waterfall views. Its success has seen an expansion, with the final stages of Phase 3 including an extended 1.06km zipline and landing deck. Investment potential exists in the establishment of an on-site lodge for overnight stays, extended ziplining opportunities, transportation, and recreational activities such as quad biking and paintball.

The recently launched 71km Umzumbe River Trails in the hinterland meet the massive demand for such guided hiking trails among iconic scenery. Guests are also exposed to authentic Zulu experiences in homestays along the way. Further investment potential exists in the establishment of a lodge alongside the dam – which has been supported by a feasibility report issued by Umzumbe Town Planning – and the development of recreational activities around the dam for overnight guests, day visitors, corporate team building, and school excursions.

Tourism investment potential uncovered

Leonard Gomo, the General Manager of Margate Sands – which enjoyed a 6.5% increase from last year’s occupancy of 89.18% – said the Blue Flag beaches, Marine Protected Areas, and hinterland activities make this region an attractive investment option. He added that new initiatives such as the Wellness Way route and Mission Tourism Route are enhancing the offerings.

“Further to this are the community initiatives, such as Tidy Towns, that create a conducive tourism environment,” said Gomo. “When communities buy into your business vision it guarantees the longevity of your business lifespan, and the KZN South Coast is on the rise. Investing now enables the investors to grow with the destination while enjoying the benefits of a low-cost investment now.”

Corné Alberts, the Group Marketing Manager for ANEW Head Office which includes ANEW Resort Ingeli Forest near Harding, said the KZN South Coast presents various investment opportunities in the tourism sectors.

“Infrastructure development, hospitality services, eco-tourism initiatives, and technology-driven enhancements are areas with considerable potential. Exploring partnerships and collaborations to enhance these sectors can be beneficial for investors seeking opportunities in the region,” noted Alberts.

“Investing in the KZN South Coast offers numerous benefits, including the region’s natural beauty, a growing tourism sector, and a supportive local community. The potential for sustainable and responsible tourism practices further adds to the appeal. Additionally, the region’s strategic location and diverse offerings make it a promising investment destination with long-term growth prospects.”

She added that there has been a noticeable uptick in interest in the KZN South Coast as an investment destination: “The region’s positive tourism trajectory, coupled with its unique attractions, has captured the attention of potential investors.”

To find out more about these and more investment opportunities, get in touch with SCTIE, the KZN South Coast’s  One-Stop Shop  for investment. Contact SCTIE on 039 682 7944, email [email protected] or visit  www.investkznsouthcoast.co.za .

Keep updated on  Facebook ; South Coast Tourism and Investment Enterprise on  YouTube ; @infosouthcoast on  Twitter  or  Instagram ; and South Coast Tourism and Investment Enterprise on  LinkedIn . Follow the hashtags #uncover #uncoverkznsouthcoast #uncoverpotential #kznsouthcoast! And click  here  to check out previous SCTIE press releases.

To purchase goods sold or secure services from these and other Buy Local businesses visit the  online directory  on the SCTIE  website . To make orders from Buy Local members or to join the campaign, visit the Buy Local tag at  www.investkznsouthcoast.co.za  or click  here  for a membership form.

All images are complimentary for media use, provided the correct image credit is included and the images are published in conjunction with the content supplied.

High resolution images are available upon request. (Images: Supplied by SCTIE)

Margate Sands.

Umzumbe River Trails.

ANEW Resort Ingeli Forest.

KwaXolo Caves Adventures.

About South Coast Tourism & Investment Enterprise (SCTIE)

SCTIE was established as the official economic development arm of the KZN South Coast which extends from Scottburgh to Port Edward, and inland to Harding. It is a legal entity of the Ugu District Municipality with executive powers, serving the Ugu District and its family of municipalities. The entity is committed to identifying and unlocking the full tourism and investment potential of this region. SCTIE achieves its mandate of promoting investment through dedicated marketing initiatives, product development, business support and training, dedicated networking events, and breaking down barriers to local investment. From the coast to the hinterland, the KZN South Coast has a wealth of untapped investment potential for those who are looking to branch out into the district and uncover opportunities. The attractive location, subtropical climate, natural assets and accessibility make the KZN South Coast a prime investment destination. By engaging with local and international role players, SCTIE seeks to assist investors looking to uncover hidden gems across various economic sectors, including tourism, agriculture, manufacturing, real estate, logistics and transport, and the ocean economy, among others. For more information, visit  www.investkznsouthcoast.co.za .

Issued on behalf of: South Coast Tourism and Investment Enterprise (SCTIE)

Disseminated by: Olivia Jones Communications

For more information please contact: Olivia Jones Communications Cell: 083 653 1720 Email: [email protected]

Launch of South Coast Tourism and Investment Enterprise boosts tourism and local economy

The formulation of the South Coast Tourism and Investment Enterprise as the official economic development arm will allow them to proactively identify and unlock the full tourism and investment potential of this region.

It was an historic occasion for the KZN South Coast recently with the launch of the newly-formed South Coast Tourism and Investment Enterprise (SCTIE), which is set to attract investment and position the region as a prime tourism destination.

“The KZN South Coast is a region of unlimited potential and opportunities, from tourism and agriculture through to film and real estate investments- there is incredible potential to turn this interest into a success,” explained Dr Sipho Nzimande, chairperson of South Coast Tourism and Investment Enterprise.

Attended by representatives from Ugu district Municipality, government and private sector stakeholders, the launch included the unveiling of the newly created SCTIE logo, with development plans for the region outlined.

ALSO READ: 12 reasons Margate is a tourism hot spot on the KZN South Coast

The SCTIE is an amalgamation of Ugu South Coast Tourism (USCT) and Ugu South Coast Development Agency (USCDA).

The two entities have been merged in order to optimise service delivery, enhance efficiencies and cut costs.

As the official economic development arm, this new entity is mandated to drive the economy of the region through positioning it as a tourism and investment destination. The core functions of SCTIE include tourism growth and investment attraction.

The entity will also operate as the local tourism authority representing tourism businesses in the region.

SCTIE will position the KZN South Coast as:

• An accessible, year-round, leisure destination of choice in South Africa, with diverse nature and outdoor experiences both on land and in water.
• A premier beach destination and one with rich cultural and heritage offerings. A value-for-money, family destination.
• A destination for small, intimate meetings and conferences.

The SCTIE will also attract investment to the region across all sectors through:

• Pro-active packaging of investment opportunities.
• Linking business and government, as well as businesses with various sectors and value chains.
• Marketing business offerings of the district.
• Positioning the region as a one-stop-shop for business support, opportunities and information.
• Linking emerging businesses with funding opportunity agencies.
• Attraction of big business and forging of partnerships between big business, foreign and local business.

To find out more the KZN South Coast, download the free ‘Explore KZN South Coast’ app from Google Play and Apple stores or visit www.visitkznsouthcoast.co.za

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Explore a new township experience from KZN tourism. Photo: visitkznsouthcoast website

New township experience launched on KZN South Coast

South Coast Tourism & Investment Enterprise (SCTIE) recently announced the launch of a brand new township experience on the KZN South Coast.

KZN South Coast’s new tourism offering

Visitors to the KwaZulu-Natal South Coast can now look forward to the Gamalakhe Township Experience from South Coast Tourism & Investment Enterprise (SCTIE), a new tourism offering highlighting the history, culture and outdoor adventure of the Gamalakhe township on the KZN South Coast.

ALSO READ: Five fun, family-friendly things to do in coastal Ramsgate, KwaZulu-Natal

The initiative was launched on Friday, 20 October by Phelisa Mangcu, CEO of South Coast Tourism & Investment Enterprise.

“Gamalakhe is a township with a rich history that includes the sad reality of forced removals, but it also tells the story of the people’s tenacity and the wonderful local traditions that have emerged here,” Mangcu said in a statement.

“It’s important for us to retain this history while expanding our incredible township tourism offerings to benefit our local communities and visitors.” Mangcu added.

ALSO READ: South Africa tops the list of wealthiest countries in Africa

About Gamalakhe

Gamalakhe Township, which is located around 10km from Margate and Shelly Beach along the KZN South Coast, is believed to have come about in the 1880s when Norwegian settlers drove local communities from their land. 

Then in the 1950s, during the apartheid government’s forced removals, the township grew larger when black residents were driven from the coast inland. Now the township is home to a hospital, police station, schools, a shopping centre and much more.

ALSO READ: All Durban beaches have been reopened – except one

What’s part of the township experience?

According to Visit KZN South Coast , the Township Experience will include a visit to Tin Town, the oldest part of the township.

Visitors will also get to enjoy a ‘Kasified Experience’, an authentic township experience within Gamalakhe. This will include visiting local taverns, car spinning shows, an outdoor cinema, quad biking, paintball and more.

They will also get to experience delicious shisanyama and other local cuisine.

For more information about the tours, check here .

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KZN South Coast a top events destination as SCTIE welcomes the 2023 Ocean Festival

PRESS RELEASE For Immediate Attention 06 June 2023

The year-round great weather and unmatched natural resources make the KZN South Coast an ideal events destination. This year, South Coast Tourism & Investment Enterprise (SCTIE) is excited to welcome the first-ever Ocean Festival to the Scottburgh area, starting on World Oceans Day (8 June) and concluding on 11 June with a surfski and surfing contest.

“The KZN South Coast has a long history as a leading MICE [meetings, incentives, conferences, and events] destination and we’re excited that new events are being added to the local calendar, particularly those that support the conservation of our natural spaces,” commented Phelisa Mangcu, CEO SCTIE.

“Just last year we were proud to be chosen as the host destination for the impactful 2022 Conservation Symposium which welcomed 215 to the Scottburgh region. The Ocean Festival continues this conservation trend by celebrating World Oceans Day while showcasing our incredible natural attributes through a series of family-friendly events and activities. This time of the year is also when we welcome the annual Sardine Run and Humpback whale migration, so there are many reasons to head to the KZN South Coast shores this winter.”

Barry Lewin, Event Organiser of Ocean Festival, said the first event was right on track, attracting major sports stars, conservationists, and committed individuals to the region: “We are excited to be organising a number of positive events in celebration of World Oceans Day as a way to encourage as many people as possible to acknowledge and understand the importance of the oceans. We have an extensive programme lined up that will cater to all tastes, hinged on the World Oceans Day theme  Planet Ocean: Tides are Changing .”

Ocean Festival 2023 Programme

Visitors to this year’s Ocean Festival can look forward to some great ocean-based action, including:

• A Beach Clean-up in partnership with SAAMBR, ORI, and Sea World
• World Oceans Day River Clean-up in partnership with Legends Kayaks
• Conservation Speaker Session in partnership with SAAMBR, ORI, and Sea World featuring Maryke Musson sharing turtle research and Dr Ryan Daly on the Shark Tagging Project
• Ocean Festival Coastal MTB Social Ride in partnership with Renishaw Hills.
• Ocean Festival Movie Night
• Yoga session by The Yoga Studio
• Keep Scottburgh Beautiful Beach Walk / Clean in partnership with Keep Scottburgh Beautiful and Halfway Toyota
• Made for More Surf Contest
• Ocean Festival Event & Live Music featuring Qadasi & Maqhinga

Top surfers will also be descending on Cutty Sark Beach for the  Cutty Sark Pro presented by SMTH Shapes  surfing contest sponsored by SMTH Shapes, Premier Resort Cutty Sark, Halfway Toyota, and Instinct. The event, which is running from 10 to 11 June will have R10 000 in prizes up for grabs, and is the entry point for the re-launch of Shaun Tomson’s epic Instinct surfwear brand! Contact Gill at [email protected] or 083 965 4344.

Sunday, 11 June the ocean action continues with the  Leatherback Rum Surfski Challenge  at Cutty Sark Beach and Aliwal Shoal. World champion surfski competitors will be in attendance, competing for R50 000 worth of prizes. More information is available at  @aliwalshoalsurfski  on Instagram and  Leatherback Rum Aliwal Shoal Surfski Challenge  on Facebook.

Visitors can also catch local artist, Giffy Duminy, in action as he paints a mural on the bridge to Premier Resort Cutty Sark in Scottburgh, with sponsorship from Apex Environmental. In celebration of World Oceans Day and the Ocean Festival, Giffy is creating an ocean-themed mural that acknowledges the incredible marine life found at the nearby Marine Protected Area, Aliwal Shoal.

Check @theoceanfestival on Instagram and Facebook, and  www.oceanfestival.co.za  website for the most updated Ocean Festival programme details.

KZN South Coast Activities

With top-quality accommodation, conference venues, and some of the best nature-based activities for teambuilding and fundraising, the KZN South Coast continues to dominate as a MICE destination. The area is also considered The Golf Coast owing to the 11 quality golf courses found here – the ideal location for closing the deal on the greens!

The slight drop in temperatures also brings the #greatestshoalonearth to the KZN South Coast – the annual Sardine Run! Visitors can enjoy an ocean safari, going out to view the marine action on a charter boat, snorkelling, or even diving at the Marine Protected Areas and world-renowned dive sites, Aliwal Shoal and Protea Banks.

The Sardine Run action can also be enjoyed from the KZN South Coast’s Blue Flag beaches, with the region home to the highest number in the province! The KZN South Coast also sets the bar for most tidal pools, providing protected bathing for visitors year-round.

Hiking, biking, and 4×4 adventures are best enjoyed in the hinterland, where the KZN South Coast’s gorges, valleys, waterfalls, and nature and game reserves are just waiting to be explored. There’s a variety of established tours, including the Mission Tourism Route, 8km Weza Hiking Trail, 71km Umzumbe River Trail, KwaNzimakwe Experience, and Wild 5 Adventures. The newly launched Nyandezulu Experience, just 9km from Shelly Beach, consists of a guided hike to Ntantana Mountain overlooking the 90m Nyandezulu Waterfall.

Don’t miss out on the latest SCTIE tourism adventure being launched later this month – the 38km Beach-to-Beach Hike. From here, visitors can enjoy sightings of the Sardine Run and migrating whales while enjoying the beautiful coastline.

Keep updated on KZN South Coast happenings

SCTIE launched the  Meeting Planner Guide  to assist corporates and conference organisers in accessing information for business conferences, meetings, teambuilding events, and accommodation requirements. To access the KZN South Coast Meeting Planner Guide, visit www.visitkznsouthcoast.co.za.

Keep updated on all the Sardine Run action by visiting South Coast Tourism on  Facebook ; South Coast Tourism and Investment Enterprise on  YouTube ; @infosouthcoast on  Twitter  or  Instagram ; and South Coast Tourism & Investment Enterprise on  LinkedIn . Follow the hashtags #greatestshoalonearth #sardinerun #sardinerun2023 #kznsouthcoast #extendyourstay #seakznsouthcoast

SCTIE has also put together a  3-day Sardine Run Tour Package  that includes diving, fishing, surfing, ocean safaris, helicopter or microlight flips, as well as hinterland experiences. To find out more about this, get in touch with local tourism operators, or discover more about KZN South Coast sites and events, visit the  website , check out the  Events Calendar , the KZN South Coast Meeting Planner Guide and more! And click  here  to check out previous SCTIE press releases.

All images are complimentary for media use, provided the correct image credit is included and the images are published in conjunction with the content supplied.

High resolution images are available upon request. (Images: Supplied by Ocean Festival)

The first-ever Ocean Festival will be taking place in the Scottburgh area, starting on World Oceans Day (8 June) running until 11 June.

(Image credit: Hennie Potgieter)

South African freediving champion, Beth ‘The Mermaid’ Neale, partner Miles Cloutier and daughter Neve (all from Scottburgh) are ambassadors for the Ocean Festival.

The Leatherback Rum Surfski Challenge will be taking place on Sunday, 11 Juneat Cutty Sark Beach and Aliwal Shoal.

Top surfers will also be descending on Cutty Sark Beach on 10 & 11 June for the Cutty Sark Pro surfing contest sponsored by SMTH Shapes, Premier Resort Cutty Sark, Halfway Toyota, and Instinct.

About KZN South Coast

Known as the ‘Paradise of the Zulu Kingdom, the KZN South Coast stretches 120 kilometres from Scottburgh to Port Edward and inland to Harding. Here, the spirit of adventure can be discovered among the many cultural experiences, as well as the 35 nature trails and 58 beaches, ideal for activities like river rafting, abseiling, suspension bridges, paintball, surfing, SUP, canoeing, beach horse rides, shark cage diving and free diving. Nicknamed ‘The Golf Coast’, there are 11 golf courses on the KZN South Coast ranging in difficulty, with endless hiking, mountain biking and 4×4 trails for more rugged excursions. Promoting sustainability, the KZN South Coast has a growing Agri-tourism sector that offers world-class produce and hosts tours and excursions. The region boasts several permanently managed Blue Flag beaches and is home to some of the world’s top diving sites, Aliwal Shoal and Protea Banks. The originality continues with the annual Sardine Run, coined the #GreatestShoalonEarth, which is the largest biomass migration on earth and a marvel to witness. The region’s many nature reserves are inhabited by indigenous bird and wildlife, and it holds the title of ‘smallest desert on earth’, The Red Desert in Port Edward. The KZN South Coast is a fast-emerging MICE destination which also plays host to several high-profile events including The Bike Fest, Uvukile Gospel Festival, Ugu Jazz, Ugu Film Festival and the South Coast Fever MTB & Trail Run Series.

Issued on behalf of:

South Coast Tourism and Investment Enterprise (SCTIE)

Disseminated by: Olivia Jones Communications

For more information please contact: Olivia Jones Communications Cell: 083 653 1720 Email: [email protected]

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WA government says the South Coast Marine Park will rival the Great Barrier Reef. But will it bring tourists?

The last rays of honey-coloured sunlight disappear behind East Mount Barren as Sue Leighton strides along a boardwalk.

"Hello darling," she grins, stopping beside a spindly veil of branches to greet a Banksia baueri, a pineapple-sized flower native to the region.

The Hopetoun resident adores the area's abundant and unusual plant life and is an expert in showing it off, coordinating the annual Ravensthorpe Wildflower Show, which draws tourists from all over the world.

But she thinks the region's environmental tourism credentials will soar even higher with a massive new marine park on its doorstep.

The state government claims the proposed South Coast Marine Park, spanning from Bremer Bay to the South Australian border, will rival the Great Barrier Reef or Ningaloo, creating a tourism windfall for the region.

It is a reassuring idea for many residents in Hopetoun and neighbouring Ravensthorpe, after hundreds were laid off during the closure of the region’s major nickel mine . 

"We need to move forward and not think about having mining as the main thing," Ms Leighton says.

"I think the marine park would be great for tourism."

But with public submissions about the park closing on Sunday, many have warned it will take more than lines on a map to deliver. 

'We might see less people'

The marine park proposal has split opinions across the region's coastal communities, with three protests held in Esperance since April.

Many believe the park's location is politically motivated, not scientifically justified, and will have a devastating impact on the commercial fishing sector .

On Thursday, Shadow Fisheries Minister Colin de Grussa tabled a petition in parliament, calling on government to halt the process.

But the West Australian government says it will create a raft of tourism opportunities, noting the Ningaloo Marine Park, in the state's north, brought $99.5m to the state's economy and supported 954 full-time jobs in 2018-19.

"There's reason to think the same will happen within the proposed South Coast Marine Park," a spokesperson says.

But opponents believe the region cannot cope with more visitors , given Esperance is already filled to bursting at peak times, and that restrictions to key fishing areas will damage the existing recreational industry.

Recfishwest chief executive Andrew Rowland says marine park boundaries should begin 200 metres offshore to reduce the impact on recreational fishing.

"The area particularly around Esperance is a very popular place already without the new marine park," he says.

"And it's important that when that marine park does come in that it doesn't actually impact on the current set of values.

"If it does, then we might see less people coming to this region."

But Esperance Tourism Development manager Annabelle Hender thinks its impact will be positive. 

"There's currently no evidence to show that a marine park would prevent people from wanting to come," she says.

"But it does show that it would actually attract higher value visitors moving forward."

She says a marine park will attract a key demographic — "premium nature seekers" — who spend more, stay longer and are mindful of sustainability.

"In terms of the brand positioning, it can really present ourselves as a clean, pristine environment," she says.

"And there's evidence of that working really well in other destinations around the world like Palau and Costa Rica."

She says the marine park will create opportunities through new research projects, the partnership with traditional owners and the potential for future events that celebrate the coastal environment.

Call for infrastructure investment

On a quiet June afternoon, the Southern Ocean laps at a concrete boat ramp near Hopetoun’s town centre.

But Ravensthorpe Shire president Tom Major says with the wrong wind and swell direction, the 40-year-old structure is dangerous, with a farmer killed in 2005 while attempting to winch in his boat . 

Cr Major says if the state government is genuine about promoting tourism, it needs to stump up for upgrades to coastal infrastructure such as boat ramps, mooring facilities, beach access tracks and walking trails. 

"If we don't get the coastal access right, we just won’t see the full potential of it realised," he says.

The Esperance Tjaltjraak Native Title Aboriginal Corporation, one of the native title groups that will jointly manage the park with the state government, raises similar points.

"The list of infrastructure projects that have been proposed, requested, and shelved over the years in Esperance is long," chairperson Gail Reynolds-Adamson says.

"We believe this is the once-in-a-generation chance to put Esperance’s infrastructure needs on the table — for us to make the South Coast Marine Park a world-class research and conservation precinct."

The Esperance Shire is also calling for a "community support package" to help the region make the most of opportunities the marine park presents.

With the four-month public consultation period set to end on Sunday, stakeholders are urging community members to put in a submission to make sure their thoughts on the proposal are heard. 

"There's strong views in the community, for and against," Cr Major says.

"If you've got something to say about it, now's the time to get on board."

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• Fishing and Aquaculture Industry
• Government and Politics
• Infrastructure
• Marine Parks
• Oceans and Reefs
• Ravensthorpe
• Recreational Fishing
• State and Territory Government
• Tourism and Leisure Industry
• Travel and Tourism (Lifestyle and Leisure)

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ABOUT SCTIE

The newly-formed South Coast Tourism and Investment Enterprise (SCTIE), is set to attract investment and position the KZN South Coast region as a prime tourism destination.

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