The Thicket Festival: Orchestra of Preservation and Acoustic Creativity

The Thicket Festival, held at the Summerhill Guest Farm in the Eastern Cape town of Bathurst recently featured an impressive fusion of acoustic innovation and conservation. An unexpectedly large group of about 150 enthusiasts joined in, demonstrating their strong attachment to the thickets and biodiversity in their local forests.

“We unexpectedly have so many people, all the chairs are filled and groups standing all over, even outside the open doors, it makes me quite nervous,” exclaimed Nicholaus Huchzermeyer, chairperson of Friends of Waters Meeting when he opened the meeting.

The program featured a diverse lineup of speakers and presentations, each contributing to the overarching theme of conservation and environmental awareness. Highlights included talks on the role of acoustic environments in wildlife preservation and innovative approaches to habitat restoration.

“The Song of the Thicket” by Franco Schoeman delved into the intricate sounds of the thicket, drawing parallels to the majestic calls of elephants, and emphasising the importance of acoustic environments in conservation. Duncan Haynes presented “How is nature used in urban places?” emphasising the usage and importance of nature for urban dwelling amaXhosa. Div de Villiers shared his experiences and insights in “Conservation Career in Thicket,” offering valuable advice for those interested in pursuing a career in environmental conservation. Vathiswa Zikishe concluded the festival with a talk on “Special Plants of the Thicket,” which highlighted the unique and diverse plant species found in thicket ecosystems, underscoring their ecological importance and the need for their protection.

Picture by GRACE COETZEE: Speakers at the festival included, from left, Div de Villiers, Franco Schoeman, Vathiswa Zikishe, and Duncan Haynes, with Nicholaus Huchzermeyer, chairperson of Friends of Waters Meeting, event organisers.

Franco Schoeman, also known as The Maestro of Elephant Music, enthralled the audience with sounds and ideas, illustrating fully why he is a distinguished figure in the field of conservation and acoustic environments. He showed and played recordings of how he has been exploring the depths of infrasound for over a decade. His journey began with an MMus thesis, which has since evolved into a unique sonic adventure. Schoeman’s work delves into the world of extremely low bass frequencies, creating a distinctive music experience that also opens new audio frontiers in communicating with elephants.

Elephants are known to communicate using low-frequency rumbles that can travel long distances. These sounds are crucial for their complex social systems, allowing them to maintain contact with family members and coordinate movements. Schoeman’s research focuses on these acoustic signals, exploring how they will be harnessed for artistic expression, conservation, and education. His work not only highlights the beauty of these sounds but also emphasises their importance in the natural world.

Schoeman has developed an innovative approach to conservation efforts. His team is currently working on an ambitious project known as the “Elephant Gate.” This initiative aims to create new opportunities for artistic expression, range expansion, and carbon sequestration. By integrating infrasound into conservation strategies, Schoeman and his team hope to enhance the effectiveness of wildlife management and promote a deeper understanding of elephant behaviour.

Franco Schoeman’s work serves as a testament to the power of sound in bridging the gap between art and science, and his contributions to the field are sure to inspire future generations of conservationists. Added to that, he is the bass player for the band, ISO.

Read more about the speakers and their presentations at the Thicket Festival in a series of blogs about the Thicket Festival to follow later.

This article was first published in the popular local newspaper Talk of the Town in Port Alfred, Eastern Cape.

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About Bathurst:

Bathurst is a charming and historic town located about 12 kilometers inland from Port Alfred, on the R67 road, in the Eastern Cape province of South Africa1. Here are some highlights about Bathurst:

Historical Significance

• Established in 1820: Bathurst was initially set up as an administrative center for the 1820 British Settlers. It was named after Henry Bathurst, the 3rd Earl Bathurst1.

• Colonial Heritage: The town retains much of its early 19th-century English village charm, with many original settler houses and buildings still preserved1.

Key Attractions

• The Big Pineapple: This iconic structure stands 16.7 meters tall and celebrates the region’s pineapple industry. Visitors can explore a pineapple museum inside and enjoy panoramic views from the top2.

• The Pig & Whistle Inn: Reputedly the oldest continuously licensed pub in South Africa, established in 1831. It has a rich history and remains a central meeting point for locals and visitors2.

• Historical Landmarks: Bathurst is home to several historical sites, including the Powder Magazine, St. John’s Church, the Bradshaw Mill, and the Bathurst Agricultural Museum2.

Community and Lifestyle

• Art and Culture: The town has an increasing population of artists, academics, and retirees, contributing to a vibrant cultural scene1.

• Annual Festivals: Bathurst hosts various festivals throughout the year, adding to its lively community atmosphere2.

Bathurst offers a unique blend of history, culture, and scenic beauty, making it a fascinating destination to explore. Have you visited Bathurst before, or are you planning a trip there soon?

Learn more

1en.wikipedia.org2newplacestogo.com3bing.com4southafrica.co.za5wikiwand.com

Bathurst, in the Eastern Cape, offers a variety of charming accommodation options. Here are some recommendations:

1. The Historic Pig & Whistle Hotel: Known as the oldest continuously licensed pub in South Africa, this hotel offers a unique historical experience with comfortable rooms and a cozy atmosphere1.

2. Kingston Farm: A beautiful guest house set on a working farm, offering elegant rooms and a peaceful countryside experience1.

3. Morley House: This guest house provides a tranquil stay with lovely gardens and a pool. It’s perfect for a relaxing getaway1.

4. Langholm Lodge: A family-friendly option with spacious rooms and a welcoming atmosphere. It’s great for those traveling with children1.

5. Three Valleys Game Farm: For a more adventurous stay, this game farm offers a chance to experience wildlife and nature up close1.

6. Airbnb Options: There are also several highly-rated vacation rentals available on Airbnb, ranging from cozy cottages to larger homes, providing a variety of options to suit different needs and preferences2.

These options provide a range of experiences, from historical charm to countryside tranquility. Have you stayed at any of these places before, or are you planning a visit soon?

Did you have a chance to explore any specific spots or participate in local events while you were there? I’d love to hear about your experience! Click on the Chat icon on the right at the bottom of this page.