by SFT | Jun 22, 2026 | St Francis
The KwaZulu-Natal sardine run officially got underway this year when the first sardines were netted at Port Edward on 13 June.
Although the arrival is slightly later than in 2025, when the first shoals were netted at the end of May, mid-June is traditionally when sardines make their first appearance along the KZN coastline. As many locals will appreciate, the timing coincided almost perfectly with the annual Comrades Marathon weekend.
Early Success Along The South Coast
Following the initial small net of sardines at Port Edward on 13 June, netters enjoyed further success along the Lower South Coast. Sardines were landed at several locations, including Southbroom, Ramsgate and Umzumbe.
These early catches generated considerable excitement among coastal communities, anglers, divers and ocean enthusiasts. Every winter, many eagerly await the arrival of one of the world’s most spectacular marine migrations.
Sea Temperatures Influence The Run
Sea temperature plays a critical role in determining the movement and distribution of sardines along the coast.
On 13 June, sea surface temperatures at Port Edward were a favourable 19.5°C. These conditions created a suitable environment for sardines to move northward.
However, conditions changed rapidly over the following days. By 16 June, water temperatures on the Upper South Coast had risen to approximately 23.5°C. At the same time, warm water continued to persist around the Durban region.
Sardines generally favour cooler water temperatures. Therefore, the intrusion of warmer water onto the KZN coast can slow or temporarily halt their northward progression.
Encouraging Signs Remain
Since 18 June, sardine activity has become noticeably quieter, most likely because of these warmer conditions. While this may appear concerning, it is not unusual and does not necessarily indicate the end of the run.
In fact, several encouraging signs suggest the season may still have plenty to offer.
Large concentrations of baitfish remain present along the South Coast, including substantial mixed shoals of red-eyes, mackerel and sardines. Perhaps most promising are recent reports of large shoals of sardines along the Wild Coast.
These observations suggest that significant numbers of fish remain to the south of KwaZulu-Natal and could still move north if environmental conditions become favourable.
Waiting For The Next Cold-Water Pulse
Current expectations are that if cooler water once again pushes onto the KZN coast, sardines are likely to reappear in greater numbers.
As always, the sardine run is heavily influenced by changing oceanographic conditions. Consequently, the coming weeks will determine just how far the migration progresses this year.
For now, all eyes remain on the ocean as we wait to see what the next cold-water pulse will bring.
Article written by ORI Senior Scientist, Dr Ryan Daly – SAAMBR
by SFT | Jun 22, 2026 | St Francis, Surf Editorial
Masencamp, Baum, Winter And Venter Celebrate Finals-Day Success
VICTORIA BAY, George, South Africa – Herold’s Bay delivered the perfect backup venue for Finals Day as four champions emerged from the Rip Curl Vic Bay Surf Pro QS 2,000 and inaugural Rip Curl Vic Bay Surf Pro Junior yesterday (June 21).
With small surf forcing organisers to move from Victoria Bay, clean two-to-four-foot waves provided an ideal canvas for the final day performances from some of the most talented and dedicated surfers in the country.
Adin Masencamp and Sarah Baum claimed the men’s and women’s Rip Curl Vic Bay Surf Pro QS 2,000 titles, while Simon Winter and Anastasia Venter won the inaugural Rip Curl Vic Bay Surf Pro Junior divisions.
Rip Curl Vic Bay Surf Pro 2026 winners Anastasia Venter, Sarah Baum, Adin Masencamp and Simon Winter Photo: WSL / Kody McGregor
The Rip Curl Vic Bay Surf Pro QS 2,000 marked the opening event of the WSL Africa 2026/2027 Qualifying Series season, while the newly introduced Rip Curl Vic Bay Surf Pro Junior served as the second stop of the regional Junior Qualifying Series.
“I’m so stoked,” said Masencamp. “This is one I really wanted to tick off the box.”
The women’s QS title went to Baum after a strong performance against France’s Sarah Leiceaga in a high-quality final.
“I’m so stoked I got to go left all day,” said Baum. “Sarah was ripping, so it was an awesome final.”
New Pro Junior Event Produces New Winners
The inaugural Rip Curl Vic Bay Surf Pro Junior proved a successful addition to the event, with two new champions crowned in the junior divisions.
Kommetjie’s Simon Winter secured the biggest result of his young career, claiming his first Junior Qualifying Series victory with a winning total of 13.50 in the final against top seed Levi Epenetos.
“I went out there, got two waves, and got it done,” said Winter.
In the girls’ division, Anastasia Venter capitalised on a dramatic final to secure victory and move to the top of the regional rankings.
“I feel so amazing,” said Venter. “I’m just so happy to be here and to take out the win. I’m glad to be back up on the podium!”
Anastasia Venter finding form, en route to victory © Kody McGregor
Standout Performances Earn Special Awards
While four titles were decided in the water, several competitors were also recognised for exceptional performances throughout the weekend.
The Royal St Andrews Hotel awarded a four-night stay during the upcoming 2027 Port Alfred Easter Festival, which includes the Royal St Andrews Hotel Rip Curl Cup QS 4,000 event to Brad Scott. The prize recognised Scott’s outstanding performances throughout the event, including one of the highest heat totals of the competition on his run to the final.
Neil Schalkwyk congratulates Brad Scott on the Royal St Andrews Hotel prize © Kody McGregor
Bilt Surfboards International presented custom De’zin Creations trophies and custom surfboard prizes to Simon Winter and Emily Jenkinson for their breakout performances in the Pro Junior event.
VICTORIA BAY, GEORGE, SOUTH AFRICA – JUNE 19: Bilt Specialty prize winner Simon Winter of South Africa and Neil Schalkwyk of Bilt at the prizegiving of the Rip Curl Vic Bay Surf Pro Junior on June 21, 2026 at Victoria Bay, George, South Africa. (Photo by Kody McGregor/World Surf League)
As part of the award, Winter and Jenkinson will each receive a surfboard of their choice from the Bilt International stable, including Channel Islands Surfboards, …Lost by Mayhem, Bilt and Chilli Surfboards.
All The Results
Rip Curl Vic Bay Surf Pro Men’s Final Results
1- Adin Masencamp (RSA) 14.50
2- Brad Scott (RSA) 9.50
Rip Curl Vic Bay Surf Pro Women’s Final Results
1- Sarah Baum (RSA) 12.83
2- Sarah Leiceaga (FRA) 11.84
Rip Curl Vic Bay Surf Pro Junior Men’s Final Results
1- Simon Winter (RSA) 13.50
2- Levi Epenetos (RSA) 11.53
3- Luc Lepront (RSA) 9.44
4- Ryan Coelho (BRA) 8.67
Rip Curl Vic Bay Surf Pro Junior Women’s Final Results
1- Anastasia Venter (RSA) 10.67
2- Louise Lepront (RSA) 9.44
3- Camilla Heuer (RSA) 9.33
4- Emily Jenkinson (RSA) 8.00
The Rip Curl Vic Bay Surf Pro QS 2,000 and Rip Curl Vic Bay Surf Pro Junior were supported by George Municipality, George Tourism, The Pottery, Sir Fruit, Bliz Eyewear, Bilt International, Betify, Yeti, Red Bull, The Royal St Andrews Hotel and Harcourts South Africa.
See also – RIP CURL VIC BAY SURF PRO – Regional Qualifying Series Season Opens at Victoria Bay
Read more – Rip Curl Vic Bay Surf Pro Celebrates International Surfing Day as Top Contenders Emerge
One more – Pumping Surf At Victoria Bay For Opening Day Of The Rip Curl Vic Bay Surf Pro
by SFT | Jun 22, 2026 | St Francis
Kouga Local Municipality has issued a public warning about a scam targeting residents in the region.
The municipality recently became aware of individuals falsely claiming to be municipal employees. According to reports, these scammers are approaching members of the public and requesting payments of approximately R1 500 for alleged medical examinations or employment opportunities at the municipality.
Municipal officials have confirmed that these claims are false.
Municipality Does Not Charge Job Applicants
Importantly, Kouga Local Municipality does not charge applicants for jobs, interviews, medical examinations, or any recruitment-related process.
As a result, residents should immediately be suspicious of anyone requesting payment in exchange for employment opportunities. The municipality says any person making such demands is acting fraudulently and does not represent the municipality in any way.
Furthermore, residents should be cautious of unsolicited phone calls, messages, emails, or face-to-face approaches that promise employment in return for money.
How Residents Can Protect Themselves
The municipality has urged residents to take several simple precautions.
Firstly, do not make payments to anyone claiming they can secure a municipal job.
Secondly, do not share personal information, banking details, identity numbers, passwords, or copies of important documents with unknown individuals.
In addition, residents should verify any suspicious communication directly with the municipality before taking any action.
These simple steps can help prevent financial loss and identity theft.
Report Suspicious Activity Immediately
Anyone who has been approached by individuals making these claims should report the matter without delay.
Residents can contact the Kouga Municipality Call Centre on 042 200 2200. Alternatively, they can report the incident to their nearest South African Police Service station.
Prompt reporting may help authorities identify those responsible and prevent other residents from becoming victims.
Stay Vigilant
Employment scams often target people who are actively looking for work. For that reason, residents are encouraged to remain alert and question any offer that requires payment up front.
Kouga Local Municipality says it remains committed to protecting residents from fraud. The municipality also encourages the public to stay vigilant, verify information carefully, and report suspicious activity whenever it occurs.
Some more – Kromme River Mouth Conditions Affect Canal Water Levels
Read more: The Milky Way Near Hankey – Photo Of The Day By Clive Wright Photography
Read more: Major Rescue Operation Ends With Missing Surfer Found Safe
and one more: How To Escape A St Francis Winter Without Crossing Half The Planet
by SFT | Jun 22, 2026 | St Francis
The South African Police Service has confirmed the murder of ANC Ward 27 councillor Sicelo Mleve, who was shot dead during a community meeting in Zwide on Saturday evening.
According to police, the incident took place at approximately 18:50 at the councillor’s office. Around 10 people were attending a community meeting when two armed men reportedly entered the premises.
Police say the suspects held those present at gunpoint and demanded their cell phones. During the robbery, one of the attackers allegedly opened fire on Mleve.
The 45-year-old councillor sustained multiple gunshot wounds and died at the scene.
Police Launch Manhunt
Following the shooting, police launched a manhunt for the two suspects.
Investigators are appealing to members of the public who may have information about the incident to come forward. Anyone with information that could assist the investigation can contact their nearest police station or the Crime Stop hotline on 08600 10111.
At this stage, no arrests have been reported.
Second Political Figure Killed On Registration Weekend
The killing occurred just hours after another fatal shooting involving a political figure in the Western Cape.
Democratic Alliance Ward 104 by-election candidate and community activist Sinovuyo Dyokwe was shot dead in Dunoon, Cape Town, after taking part in the IEC’s national voter registration weekend activities.
Both incidents have attracted national attention because they occurred during the same weekend.
Concerns Over Political Violence
The two shootings have renewed concerns about violence directed at political representatives, candidates and activists.
South Africa has experienced several high-profile attacks on councillors and political figures over the years. As election periods approach, tensions often increase within communities and political structures.
However, authorities have not indicated whether either of the weekend killings was politically motivated. Investigations into both cases remain ongoing.
Meanwhile, political parties have expressed shock at the deaths and called for those responsible to be brought to justice.
Police continue to investigate the circumstances surrounding the shooting of Sicelo Mleve and are urging anyone with information to assist investigators.
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