Drop all charges against Gerrie Heyns

Comments

#201

It's bullshit that an animal loving man and educator gets charged with shit claimes

Straussv Misha (Springbok, 2023-04-30)

#202

The petition clearly articulates why Gerrie should not be charged. Gerrie does invaluable work in the community by removing venomous snakes from residential properties and setting such snakes free in appropriate spots in the wild. The charges against him are of a malicious nature and should not be entertained.

Hennie Kok (Montagu, 2023-04-30)

#203

I am signing this Petition because Gerrie does amazing work in the Langeberg region and never asks for money this is Truly very unfair.

Mike Hammargren (Montagu , 2023-04-30)

#206

Gerrie is always doing an amazing job with catching and safely remove snakes from people's homes and then safely release them. He also teaches children and communities about the safety of snakes. Most of the time he doesn't get any compensation for this, he is doing it for the love and passion he has for the snakes. He is absolutely brilliant in what he does.

Poppy Theron (Durban, 2023-04-30)

#207

Gerrie is vital in our community with regards to relocating snakes thus keeping people, pets and even the snakes safe. Drop all charges

Cornel Steyn (Montagu , 2023-04-30)

#209

I'm signing this petition because I know Gerrie's passion for snakes and I personally know he always does the right thing. So many lives has been safed due to his talks at school ect. Without the talks people won't know anything about snakes. In South Africa there is a huge shortage of antivenom with Gerrie doing talks people learn to leave snakes alone. Without snakes rats and mice would become a huge problem.. I personally think Cape Nature is busy messing around and not doing there job. Cape Nature is currently doing more damage than anything else. If Gerrie is not able to do rescues I personally think Cape Nature could be to blame for a death if someone gets bitten in the area.

Lize-mari Stassen (George , 2023-04-30)

#210

I believe in Gerrie Heyns and I know that he is a good person that is trying to keep kids safe, and educate people about snakes and what to do during a snake encounter.

Charline Stone (Cape Town , 2023-04-30)

#211

These charges are ridiculous.

Amy Catchpole (Barrydale, 2023-04-30)

#212

I've been following Gerrie's journey for years and know that snakes and snake conservation is his passion and that he will never put anyone's live on danger when handling snakes.

Madeleine Mills (Pretoria, 2023-04-30)

#213

Gerrie is the best snake handler/catcher that I know of. He assisted me when I was in trouble and had a pofadder on my property. Gerrie educated me,and helped me to overcome the fear I had. Telling me do's and don'ts when having a snake on the property. He never left me fearing for my life,as the previous "snake handler" that told me,he cant help me because his date is waiting at wimpy. Gerrie drove from Montagu to Mcgregor to come and help me,without asking me a cent to do this. He is proffesional,serious in the task at hand,and definitley more than capable. All charges should be dropped.

Mariesia Freislich (Robertson, 2023-04-30)

#214

I don't agree with the heavy handed approach after someone clearly trying to educate and protect such animals is targeted for the wrong reasons.

Joshua Hattingh (Montagu, 2023-04-30)

#215

I'm signing because Gerrie is such a great custodian for the environment and the Conservation of it and he needs to be appreciated. We are privileged to have him doing awesome work for very little for our communities and surrounding area.

Patti Van Dyk (Montagu , 2023-04-30)

#216

I feel like Gerrie didn't break an law so he must be free

Francis Kennedy (Pretoria, 2023-04-30)

#218

Gerrie are doing a phenomenal job protecting snakes and other animals.He also are trying to teach people what to do when confronted with these potentially deadly reptiles

Lohan Strauss (Luderitz , 2023-04-30)

#220

I know Gerrie and his wife, they would never put people's lives at risk. Gerrie knows what he is doing and he is very professional. I have never heard of any snakebite incidents when Gerrie goes to remove and relocate the snakes. He is doing so much good in the community with his outreaches to educate ppl.

Cornelia Vd merwe (Montagu , 2023-04-30)

#222

Because Gerrie Heyns works tirelessly & selflessly to educate our communities saving the lives of humans & snakes alike. He deserves support not a charge!

Ronel De Jongh (Ashton, Western Cape, 2023-04-30)

#223

Gerrie is a clear minded citizen that means a lot to us and is of great value to the community, lives snakes and will never intent any wrong doing. I will witness on that!

Andre Joubert (Montagu, 2023-04-30)

#224

Gerrie deserves better. Snakes life matters too.

Hannele Burger (Johannesburg , 2023-04-30)

#225

Gerrie is a great asset to the community and the snakes in our area. He comes whenever you call him no matter the time of day or night. Without him there would be a whole lot less snakes in our area as people used to kill them, but with continued education, by Gerrie, all people do now is call Gerrie who then safely removes the snake and releases it in the mountains.

Astrid Astrid Bridger (Montagu , 2023-04-30)

#227

Gerrie Heyns is a reliable and ethical snake handler.

He treats all animals with the utmost care based on his deep understanding and knowledge about especially snakes and their habitat. His interest in handling snakes is out of a sincere respect he has for these animals.

Gerrie has not to my knowledge participated in the illegal or illicit handling of any animals especially snakes and reptiles.

I request that all malicious charges against him are dropped and that the relevant authorities be ordered to issue him with the appropriate documents in order that he may continue with his important work of snake conservation and education around snakes in South Africa.

Regards
Bonamy Parkin

Bonamy Parkin (Bergvliet, 2023-04-30)

#228

Gerrie applied for the certificate.
Cape Nature even asked him to assist, while he did not have any documentation.

Educating others on snakes is helping the world a lot. It's helping Cape Nature as well. He did not abuse animals or cause any injuries.

James Joubert (Riebeek-Kasteel, 2023-04-30)

#229

It's not right

Simone Falck (George, 2023-04-30)

#231

Gerrie needs to be supported and assisted by CN, not punished!! He follows the rules and is a responsible man who has the welfare of reptiles and humans as a priority. Please drop the charges and the fines. He provides an incredible service in our community, relying on donations to fund his petrol and vehicle maintenance!
Why does CN take so long to assist him in completing paperwork for Permits? Must humans and reptiles suffer the repercussions while officials take their time over attending to documents? They seem to hinder, not help!

June Welsh (Montagu, 2023-04-30)

#232

I support Gerrie with the good work he is doing in educating our children in the event on “meeting” a snake. This really help saving lives. Also in the damn good work he is doing in the removal of snakes and letting them back into nature. I hope al these charges is dropped against him which must have been made by some or another uneducated person. Keep up the good work Gerrie!

Willem Visser (Vredendal, 2023-04-30)

#233

I support Gerrie and all that he does for the community.He never hesitates to drive hundreds of kilometers to save snakes and peoples lives.He is always education the community and ppl on social media on snakes etc.Gerrie is doing a sterling job and shouldnt face any charges.This is one person that goes above and beyond for snakes and people.

Ramlucken Renell (Durban , 2023-04-30)

#235

Gerrie Heynes is actively involved in the conservation of snakes in his area. Everyone knows the good work he does in educating people about snakes and snake safety and these charges are ludicrous.

Jen Hayes (Caledon, 2023-04-30)

#236

This man does an excellent service to the community and is obviously ethical in what he does. He saves snakes as well as removes dangerous snakes from homes. Cape Nature needs to be charged for failure of their mandate

Peter Sinovich (Montagu, 2023-04-30)

#237

Gerrie is only doing what is best for his community. He does what others dont want to. He is a great guy doing great things!

Annari Smit (Koekenaap, 2023-04-30)

#238

Cape Nature is not knowing what they're doing. Gerrie Heyns is a hero in the community, protecting and saving THOUSANDS of snake lives.

Handré Basson (Stellenbosch, 2023-04-30)

#239

I support Gerries efforts in educating people about snakes

Lennard Van Rensburg (Montagu, 2023-04-30)

#240

I'm a great friend of Gerrie's

Richard Evans (Cape Town, 2023-04-30)

#241

Mr Heyns is a knowledgeable and proficient snake expert. We need him in Montagu as there are many venomous snakes especially Cape cobras and puffadders here. He always comes out and helps to remove snakes and relocate them safely. To stop him from doing this will negatively impact our community.

Deryl Barlow (Montagu , 2023-04-30)

#244

As an educator and snake rescuer I fully support Gerrie Heyns and am grateful there are people like him saving our snakes, serving our communities and educating people. Many people kill snakes in SA and more education is essential. Less restrictions and more support for educators doing this work is required.

Caz Gray (Cape Town, 2023-04-30)

#245

There are many people who cannot do without him including cape nature it seems? Education and undoubtedly life saving and now fined ???????

John Dunleavy (Montagu , 2023-04-30)

#246

I believe in him.

Danielle van Graan (Krugersdorp, 2023-04-30)

#247

Gerrie is rescuing snakes by removing them in houses, etc. and safely release them in their habitat again.
He also give education on snakes in the community, schools, etc.
Most of the cost involved is out of his own pocket.
I suggest that he rather get asistance in obtaining his permit and needed license.
Theuns Meyer

Theuns Meyer (Alberton, 2023-04-30)

#248

The people bringing the charges are stuuupid. Gerrie does great work in creating awareness around snakes and potentially saves hundreds of people from getting bitten.

Andy Lawler (Centurion, 2023-04-30)

#249

Gerrie is doing a great job. We have so many snakes that come into our houses and gardens in Montagu and Gerrie will always go out of his way to remove them safely. It is important to have Gerrie and his family to continue with this service in our area.

Lauren Burst (Montagu , 2023-04-30)

#250

I believe he is innocent and are being harassed by ignorant oficials.

Johannes van Wyk (Bellville, 2023-04-30)

#252

I fully support the excellent work Gerrie Heyns is doing in catching in safe ways snakes and release them where it is safe for humans and the snakes. I also fully support the training about snakes he supplies to farms, farmworkers, schools and wherever it is required. AND ALL THIS WITHOUT REQUIRING PAYMENT ‼️ Please allow him to continue with his outstanding work he is doing! PLEASE ‼️‼️‼️‼️

Johan Pistor (Bellville , 2023-04-30)

#253

Gerrie does not deserve this hassle. He is a kindhearted hero in terms of nature and wildlife for Montagu and a large virtual community. These charges are ridiculous and unnecessary.

Danielle Keller (Montagu, 2023-04-30)

#255

Leave the man alone his has done his level 3 training with one of the best venomous herpotologist in the country johan marias from African snakebite Institute the man serves his community but educational talks to youngster even the saps are asking for his help in the community to remover and release venomous snake that are dangerous around human ect puff adder or the cape cobra

Marcel Kairuz (Plettenburg bay , 2023-04-30)

#256

Gerry helped me and a lot local people to be aware of the importance of snakes. He is always helping everyone with his knowledge of snakes

Han Gunst (Montagu, 2023-04-30)

#257

Gerrie saved so many lives. He also protect our environment and the lives of snakes and other wild life. Never have I heard that he endangered any person's life. He even spread awareness of those who do not have training in the snake catching business.
Gerrie needs the support of Cape Nature, the community and law enforcement to help in any way to conduct his goodwill. There is many people out there who is destroying our precious environment and do illegal things.
I believe that more people are educated by Gerrie and Gerrie have the full support of Cape Nature, the community and law enforcement, he will continue with saving lives of people and the lives of snakes and other wildlife.
Please assist Gerrie, there is so much evil in today's world,why prosecute a good person doing something positive?
I FULLY SUPPORT GERRIE AND HIS CONTRIBUTION TO SOCIETY AND TO NATURE. He deserves better and I am sure had enough negative inputs to make him think twice to continue. What will happen if Gerrie stops his work? Personally I don't want to think of the consequences.

Terence De Jager (Robertson , 2023-04-30)

#258

Gerrie has been a driving force in the protection and safe removal of snakes from residences in Montagu for years.

Debbie Dudgeon (Montagu , 2023-04-30)

#259

Gerrie Heyns does all he can to protect people, animals and snakes. These charges are RIDICULOUS and clearly an attempt to undermine him and the good he does for the wider Western Cape community. I will ALWAYS stand with him!

Marilie Van der Walt (Cape Town, 2023-04-30)

#260

Gerrie Heyns is a valued member of our community and offers a valued and appreciated service to our community

Janet Bourhill (Montagu, 2023-04-30)

#264

Gerrie is devoting his life to saving the lives of snakes, to educate the community and do awareness programs. He removed snakes from my property twice in the past with no charge at all. He does not only save snakes, but care for them until they are healthy enough to be set free. We need more such devoted souls in nature conservation.

Elsa Van Heerden (Montagu, 2023-04-30)

#266

Gerrie does not deserve this, he has only ever tried and done his best

Amy Moses (Cape Town, 2023-04-30)

#267

Gerrie Heyns is a force for good. I cannot overstate the importance of his work as an educator and snake catcher. Punishing him for providing education and for transporting a ball python (especially since he didn't actually transport a ball python!) is unjust and counter-productive. This man spends his own money to protect snakes and people. Please do the right thing and drop the charges so that Gerrie can continue helping without the additional financial burden of unjust fines.

Kayla Echols (Provo, 2023-04-30)

#269

Gerrie does an excellent job for the conservation of wild animals, especially snakes which is actually the job of Cape Nature. Drop the charges, issue the permit so that he can carry on doimg the great job that he already does.

SONETTE Hayes (Somerset West, 2023-04-30)

#270

Gerrie is a responsible law abiding citizen, only doing good and helping people and snakes stay alive and safe. From his side he did follow all the rules and it is not his fault if he did not get assistance. Gerrie have a lot of expenses doing good to save snakes and prevent bites.

El-Maree Kotze (Swakopmund, 2023-04-30)

#271

Gerrie ist doing a great job and I am thankful to have someone I can contact if I need help with a snake. He is a honest person and thanks to his education I am now much more relaxed when meeting a snake.

Nadine Raeber (Montagu, 2023-04-30)

#272

I support Gerrit Heyns. He performs a vital task in his community, free of charge. Cape Nature are not playing ball here.

Bronwyn Eagle (Mbombela , 2023-05-01)

#273

I have learned so much from just Gerrie posts he shares.

He he is doing the right thing by educating people!

Riana Roux (Sandton, 2023-05-01)

#274

The allegations are not justified.

Karen Mossmer (Montagu, 2023-05-01)

#275

I disagree with the charges.

Marek Lipowski (Bonnievale, 2023-05-01)

#276

I disagree with the charges

Celeste Lipowski (Bonnievale, 2023-05-01)

#277

Unjust accusations.

David Olivier (Montagu , 2023-05-01)

#278

He provides a very valuable community service.

Sandy Milln (Montagu , 2023-05-01)

#279

Gerrie Heyns does an amazing job & is more skilled than 99% of Cape Nature staff in our area.

Sean Brian Petty (Swellendam, 2023-05-01)

#280

Gerrie came out on a Sunday afternoon to remove a Cape Cobra from my property

Grant Muir (M9ntagu, 2023-05-01)

#281

Gerrie Heynes does incredible work with educating children and adults, saving pets and snakes themselves. He only has snakes, animals and people's lives in priority.

Vanessa Thurlwell (Montagu, 2023-05-01)

#282

Gerrie is a fighter for the protection of snakes and the eco system.

Naomi Lubbe (Cullinan, 2023-05-01)

#283

I support and appreciate Gerrie Heyns' efforts to help and educate about snake matters

Carin van Nieuwenhuizen (Montagu , 2023-05-01)

#284

Gerrie is helping alot of people. He has helped us remove to snakes where my kids was plying. He was on the farm within 10min after I called. He is a crucial part of our community.

Gizela Uys (Montagu , 2023-05-01)

#285

Gerrie is the one person who bends over backwards to try and educate about snakes, and he will spend his last cent, to rehome them. He deserves a medal, not a criminal charge.

Michelle Steenkamp (De Deur/Walkerville, 2023-05-01)

#286

Hyt niks verkeerd gedoen nie. Hy doen net goeie werk in ons gemeenskap. Die mense wat so agteraf is is net jaloers.

Chrislene Visser (Montagu, 2023-05-01)

#287

He is helping community and nature.

Corne Kershoff (Montagu, 2023-05-01)

#288

Gerrie Heyns is an upstanding member of this community and his talents should be nurtured for thr good that he is doing.

Brian Brownlie (Montagu, 2023-05-01)

#289

Gerrie saves people by sharing his knowledge and because he's started with youngsters in school, they will pass it on to the next generation.

Conita Visagie (Montagu , 2023-05-01)

#290

Gerrie Heyns is an honest, law-abiding citizen who regularly assists our community in the safe removal and relocation of venomous snakes at his own cost. He is an animal-loving person and always willing to help any animal in an emergency situation. He freely gives of his time to help and educate the people of his area.
A person of his charitable nature is rarely found today!

Natalie Wikstrom (Montagu, 2023-05-01)

#291

We need more people like Gerrie to educate people about snakes and less political red tape preventing people with a passion like him from doing what he does.

Martin Lourens (Cape Town, 2023-05-01)

#292

Gerrie Heyns serves our community in an absolutely fantastic way.

Jojo Ellensohn (Montagu, 2023-05-01)

#293

Gerrie provides a valuable service. He acts in the welfare of both the snake and person. He is professional in the manner in which he handles snakes. He knows his subject matter well and is humane to the snakes he catches. Our government and municipalities are ineffecient and corrupt in documents issued. They acted in a manner showing no laws had previously been broken. One wonders if this is not a vendetta against him for direct and true comments made against those he criticised and was direct with. The authorities are to blame and acted correctly and seem to target people like gerrie rather get on with more important matters

Richard Ilett (Montagu, 2023-05-01)

#295

Cape Nature being pathetic again, they are also very slow to act when issuing Permits. This isn't the first time they have made unneccessary trouble for good samaritans helping animals out.
Go after the real criminals #CapeNature

Leigh Ann De Gouveia (Cape Town, 2023-05-01)

#296

Gerrie Heyns is a caring, community and nature focussed snake handler. His attitude, effort and intention is something to be applauded not condemned. He is working tirelessly to protect and educate (mostly at his own cost) within a regulatory system that discourages true progress with regards to his profession and the education and safety of the public. HE IS NOT THE PROBLEM. HE IS THE SOLUTION. He should be treated as such.

Andries Olivier (Montagu , 2023-05-01)

#297

Cape Nature asked Gerrie to assist with a snake education talk at a local school in the Langeberg Municipal area. They did not ask for any proof or certificate of any kind. He then assumes that if Cape Nature asked him to do a snake education talk without asking for any documentation. Now they are charging him which I believe is enticement.

Henry van Nieuwenhuizen (Montagu, 2023-05-01)

#299

Gerrie Heyns does exceptional work on educating people about snakes and how to be safe around them

Deidré Petersen (Cape Town , 2023-05-01)

#300

He is a great guy caring for all snakes and helping everyone that phones him for help.

Yvonne Eichhorn (Montagu , 2023-05-01)

#301

The gentleman is teaching the general public about and is promoting education about snakes and the the safety of the reptiles and what to do in the case of an emergency

Eddy Rube (Durbanville, 2023-05-01)

#303

I strongly believe that South African school children need to be educated in the safety of both people and snakes. Gerrie Heyns is highly trained, experienced and competent to carry out his demonstrations to the children. He should be thanked, not punished.

Trish Heywood (Franschhoek, 2023-05-01)

#305

He is doing an excellent job in eduacting all people on snake's and to remove snakes from homes and premises.All for free.He does not deserve to be treated this way

Santie Joubert (Montagu, 2023-05-01)

#308

Gerrie lives for snakes and has helped rescue so many.
Snakes are his love and his life.
This is NOT fair.

Darlene Deacon (Montagu, 2023-05-01)

#309

I believe Gerrie is doing an amazing job educating people on snakes and the preservation thereof.

Andrew Valentine (Ashton, 2023-05-01)

#310

I stand behind what Gerrie is trying to do for the community. I understand that you have to abide by the law, but drop the charges and help him get what is needed to continue his wonderful work.

Lindi Preece (Bredasdorp cs, 2023-05-01)

#311

Gerrie does good work and always free of charge. If it were not for people like Gerrie there would have been a lot of snake bites and even fatalities in the town. In my opinion Gerrie is a hero.

Liaan Visser (Montagu, 2023-05-01)

#312

Gerrie does amazing work with educating the public and saving animals

Shemane Taylor (Margate , 2023-05-01)

#313

Apart from the fact that Gerrie has removed a puff adder from my garden I also know him to be the most dedicated prrson to educating the masses on snakes and snake behaviors. I've invited him to talk to groups as part of our Eco Group in Montagu and witnessed his extreme diligence in presenting at these highly popular and effective events.
His contributions in this field are to be celebrated and honoured. I'm certain that children's and adults' awareness from his practical workshops will and probably already have saved lives.
The reaction I saw on this one occasion is PROOF that his teaching is urgently needed in our communities.

Cate O'Rorke (Montagu , 2023-05-01)

#315

I learned a lot about snake's from, Gerrie. He helps people out of his own pocket to remove snake's. Drop the charges against him

Bernice Lensley (Pretoria, 2023-05-01)

#317

Gerrie is ways willing to help when we have dangerous snakes on our farm, free of charge. He is providing a valuable service to our broader community and snake education in schools and in rural settings is much needed.

Jessica Preyser (Barrydale, 2023-05-01)

#318

Gerrie has been great with helping and educating my and many other kids. He has been extremely careful and enthusiastic about snake awareness and their safety as well as the humans.

Marlies McCarthy (Montagu, 2023-05-01)

#320

GERRIE DOES GREAT WORK

Janine neethling (Barrydale, 2023-05-01)

#321

I believe that Gerrie Heyns is invaluable to our society. He knows snakes. He educates people. He is always available to help people with any snake related problem. If he were not part of my community I would feel unsafe.

Juanita Child (Montagu, 2023-05-01)

#323

I am convinced of his innocence.

Daniel Roux (Stellenbosch , 2023-05-01)

#324

I have found Gerrie to be totally committed to his cause and has never, that I have seen, been negligent in his handling and treatment of the snakes.
He has been of immense help to our residents many times in Barrydale.
So basically, we need to have Gerrie continuing his good works.
Thanking you in anticipation.
Eve McDonald

Eve Mcdonald (Barrydale, 2023-05-01)

#325

Gerrie does brilliant, life-saving work free of charge. These charges are absurd and a waste of everyone's time. It's like penalising Gift of the Givers for their interventions - just wrong.

Heidi Smulders (East London, 2023-05-01)

#326

I feel Gerrie has worked hard to educate the public about snakes.

Alex Faure (Barrydale, 2023-05-01)

#327

Heyns is innocent.

Yolandi Pienaar (George , 2023-05-01)

#328

Gerrie Heyns is doing critical work that saves lives both animals and humans.
Cape nature should take note of Gerrie's
work ethic and apply it in their own organization. I have reported poaching to CN many times and find their response underwhelming if not non existence

Glenn Bradshaw (Durbanville, 2023-05-01)

#329

I have known Gerrie Heyns for at least 10 years. He is passionate about his calling and I deem him to be an expert in his field. He performs an incredibly important function in the entire mileu of nature conservation. He is driven by the need to educate.

Freda Van der Walt (Ashton, 2023-05-01)

#330

He is more important in education about snakes than a certificate. He should be an honorary member in any event

Sara Webster (Bonnievale , 2023-05-01)

#331

I'm signing because Gerrie Heyns does a lot for education and conservation. It is clearly not his fault for not having the said lisence.

Reinette Fischer (Johannesburg, 2023-05-01)

#332

Gerrie has helped us by removing a Cape Cobra from our property and helped so many others in the Montagu area. I am of the opinion that Cape Nature have been vindictive for taking the steps that they did instead of assisting him to obtain the necessary permit.

Alf Boyley (Montagu , 2023-05-01)

#333

Gerrie does important snake safety work

Shelley-Ann van Tonder (Montagu, 2023-05-01)

#334

Gerrie does an excellent job with snake education in our area.

Corry De Wet (Montagu, 2023-05-01)

#335

He is a wonderful man and helped us with snakes.

ashlea sciocatti (oudtshoorn , 2023-05-01)

#337

As animal rescuers all across the country we are tied up with all types of legal requirements but a person may kill the animal without any repercussion.

Neville Wolmarans (Durban , 2023-05-01)

#338

I know Gerrie Heyns for many years and attended many of his educational talks regarding our snakes and the safety thereof. It is with shock to read about the case opened against him.

PLEASE GET REAL ....SO SAD THAT SOMETHING SO GOOD AND EDUCATIONAL HAS TO BE TURNED INTO A CIRCUS.

Dando Berry (South Africa , 2023-05-01)

#339

I respect Gerries work. Education via conservation.

Andrew Macleod (Cape Town, 2023-05-01)

#341

Gerrie has been a reliable and helpful person in removing snakes from domestic areas

Priscilla Bryson (Swellendam , 2023-05-01)

#342

Gerrie Heyns is an asset to our area, his work benefits our communities, and educates the people.
Help the man, don’t penalise him.

Kyle Berry (Barrydale, 2023-05-01)

#344

Gerrie Heyns should not be penalised for educating and assisting the public, which he does mostly free of charge.

Felicity Rooke (Barrydale , 2023-05-01)

#345

Gerrie Heynes is doing remarkable educational work around the proper and safe attitude to snakes in our area. He passionately promotes for the conservation of these valuable and misunderstood animals and privides a great and reliable free service in that he is always willing to come out to catch and relocate snakes when they are in or uncomfortably close to homes. In a snake rich area thus is absolutely essential.

Carolyn Metcalfe (Montagu, 2023-05-01)

#346

It's nonsense

Marie Stewart (Montagu, 2023-05-01)

#348

I know Gerrie personally, and have bee assisted by him with regards to snake education. He is a man of high integrity, and it is unbelievable that this is actually happening to him. I cannot help but think that this is a personal vendetta (from a ?rival) against him. All charges should immediately be dropped, and his name cleared.

Sonya Rademeyer (Strand, 2023-05-01)

#349

Gerrie Heyns is a dedicated snake lover and a hugely knowledgable gentleman in this field.I personally have learned to love and understand snakes, and not fear themat all.He rescues and educates people who would otherwise kill these incredibly important animals.Does lectures at schools and wherever he is need at his own costs.Uses his own vehicle and travels for kilometers on these rescues.His work/ teaching is an invaluable help and has saved many dangerous situations that could have gone horribly wrong.He should be thanked/ appreciated and assisted by Cape nature for the work he does with love.....rather than be charged.This is ridiculous.He has been waiting for ever for his documents that he applied for.
Please drop all charged against Gerrie Heyns.

Lynda Myrdal (Cape town, 2023-05-01)

#350

Gerrie is a very devoted and instrumental person in the snake handling fraternity, one who goes out of his way to minimize human and snake adverse interactions, mostly at own cost. The least that Cape Nature be doing is be supportive of the man, as his contributing more to what should be part of their work spectrum. Screw the red tapes, Gerrie is doing a great job within ethical snake handling methods. Drop the charges and expedite get a vet in Robertson side instead hiding you incompetence through Gerrie Heyns.

Obakeng Motshumi (Cape Town, 2023-05-01)

#351

Gerrie is a passionate educator, and conservationist. Unfortunately he has been the victim of resentment, and vindictive actions.

Adrian Clark Thompson (Cape Town , 2023-05-01)

#352

People need to be educated. We need more people like him

Joey Maritz (Pretoria, 2023-05-01)

#355

I truly appreciate the catch, release, education what Gerrie offers. He saves thousands of lives!

Angelique Du PLESSIS (Durbanville, 2023-05-01)

#356

As we already know is Gerrie always willing to help to remove snakes from places which could cause a danger to people or their pets. He will even do it at night.

Petra Schmidt (MONTAGU, 2023-05-01)

#357

In the interest of public education and awareness to the preservation of nature.

Wentzel Pretorius Snr (Robertson , 2023-05-01)

#359

In Namibia it's also a struggle to get permits as well as rescue snakes to release. We all do it free of charge. This is so unnecessary schlep

Sanet Pretorius (Langstrand, 2023-05-01)

#361

Gerrie does so much for the safety of our community always prepared to drive far at his own cost to safely relocate snakes and keep people safe. Snake as well as human population would be less without him

Zayne Glover (Montagu, 2023-05-01)

#362

These charges are petty. Go find real criminals. These charges caused no one any harm.

Rob Vogel (Cape Town, 2023-05-01)

#363

He has saved my life and that of my dogs while residing in Montagu. Always willing to come at a moments notice to capture venemous snakes from my garden. Eg. Cape Cobra's and boomslangs. When you consider that the local hospital Montagu Hospital do not stock anti venom meds is a scandal in this snake infested area. He removed 13 snakes over a 2 year period. All free of charge at great risk to his personal safety. Please drop this charge. Yours sincerely,
Gail Ellis

Gail Ellis (Bsrrydale, 2023-05-01)

#364

Gerrie Heyns is a vital member of our community. He performs the service of removing dangerous snakes free of charge. He should not be charged for any offence relating to the service he provides our community. Thank you.

Suzanne Thomas (Montagu, 2023-05-01)

#365

Gerri is doing a vital job

Susan Hall (Montagu , 2023-05-01)

#367

He really cares about nature and safety of people.

Elize Reichert (Heiderand, 2023-05-01)

#368

Snake catchers provide a valuable and necessary service by educating the general public and removing snakes that are otherwise destined for death. They should not be penalised for offering a service that the state does not provide.

Denice Pontuti (Margate, 2023-05-01)

#369

So he's being punished for providing a much needed service at his own cost. Absolutely pathetic

Damian Pontuti (Margate, 2023-05-01)

#370

I believe in saving snakes and idiots to do they job. Was not the persons fault

Domenique Cremore (Kzn, 2023-05-01)

#371

I think the charges are ridiculous!!!!!!! This is a joke.

C. Pontuti (Southbroom, 2023-05-01)

#372

This is ridiculous. Gerrie is the best person one could have to educate your child about snakes and that video that caused all of this is pure sensationalism.

Tanya Retief (Cape town, 2023-05-01)

#373

I know he does good work!

Trynie Saaiman (Montagu, 2023-05-01)

#374

Government does not provide the much needed rescue and informational task, yet prevent honest people from providing the service. I am one such victim where no alternative has been offered. It's all about money and egos and not about rescues nor education. Shame on this country. Not proudly South African.

Jane Franz (Margate, 2023-05-01)

#377

All the time and effort Gerrie puts in to educate people in safety first and to protect snakes is beyond amazing! Give him what he needs so he can keep on doing what he loves!!!

Annette Du Plooy (South Africa , 2023-05-01)

#378

I know Gerrie personally through Facebook, and he is doing extremely important work, rescuing and relocating venomous snakes, and also taking time to educate people. He is a noble, generous person, and the charges against him are ridiculous and outrageous. Please drop them! Thank you.

Edward Wood (Petaluma , 2023-05-01)

#379

This bullsh*t beurocracy in this country really sucks!!! Rather spend your time on repairing the systems our beloved ANC have stuffed up than chasing the positively-inspired South Africans. You all should hang your heads in shame!!

Anton van Vliet (Barrydale, 2023-05-01)

#380

Gerry has assisted many people in town whom I consider friends, including my elderly parents - both times with large, adult, poisonous snakes. He has always been very respectful to the snakes, always take the time to talk to anyone whom he encounters about safety and respect for snakes. I have seen him stop in the middle of town, shortly after a removal, to educate young people, before moving on to release the snake safely. He has been helpful with advice for a friend of mine on how to care for a non-venemous snake that got caught in a door, so that it could heal and be released. When he is unable to assist people he will find someone who can or give instructions over the phone on how to safely keep an eye until he can get there. Though not directly related to the charges, I think this demonstrates his absolute commitment to conservation on the one hand and public safety on the other. I think the local context, his intensions, the value of the services he provides for no or very little financial gain should come heavily to hear on the way these charges are viewed. Should he be unable to continue this valuable work where snakes often appear in potentially hazardous situations, many more people would be in danger and many snakes, that are valuable to the ecosystem, will be killed.

Alexander Botha (Montagu , 2023-05-01)

#381

I'm signing this petition on behalf of myself and all the residents of Barrydale who have had the honour of Gerrie volunteering each time to come all the way from Montequ at his expense and utmost care for the protection of human safety including his authentic love and protection towards snakes. He has come out to my home on a few occasions to capture and release the snakes in my garden. Gerrievhas given me professional advice telephonically on other occasions.
I have nothing but respect for his dedication as well as he's humility and gratitude when people offer to pay towards his petrol. Please take into consideration a man, who without exception is a most important contributor to our village and all the other areas he displays his good service.
Hopeful and trusting your discretion.
Gila Band

Gila Band (Barrydale , 2023-05-01)

#382

This is outrageous

Hilary Pace (Marina Beach, 2023-05-01)

#383

He’s innocent

Reinet Potgieter (Stellenbosch, 2023-05-01)

#384

Gerrie does fantastic work

Murad Parker (Cape Town , 2023-05-02)

#385

The man is the most important person regarding snake capture and release in our homes and most of all the education

Doris Bye (Barrydale, 2023-05-02)

#386

It is absolutely outrageous that Gerrie was arrested and charged by one government department, due to the ineptitude of another government department. Cape Nature is infamous for taking unacceptable lengths of time to issue the required permits in the western cape for snake transportation and keeping. Gerrie's arrest is a sterling example of this, not to mention a waste of resources. Perhaps SAPS should investigate Cape Nature for not issuing the required permits efficiently and timeously. Gerrie is not a criminal, he is a well known and respected member of the community he serves, tirelessly, at his own expense and is fully qualified to do. Drop all charges against Gerrie, step up the pressure on Cape Nature to issue the required permits immediately and, allow Gerrie to get back to doing what he does best - safely removing, relocating and treating snakes and releasing them. His actions save both human and snakes lives.

Antoinette de Wet (Albertinia , 2023-05-02)

#387

A similar thing happened to me before.
Due to the incompetance of Cape Nature I had a similar experience.
If they were a more professional organization this would not happen.

Charles Allison (Cape Town, 2023-05-02)

#388

Cape Nature is a joke. They need to be thrown out with rubbish and new structures put in place that have Conservation at heart. Gerrit Heyns has done more for conservation in the Cape that the whole lot of useless idiots there. The authorities should give him the licenses and even subsidize his efforts to teach.

Norman Barrett (Durban, 2023-05-02)

#391

Gerrie is a good person,looking after the safety of the Community,no time of day is a problem,he is always on call and this is ridiculous, use hom and then accuse him,nonsens!

yvette kotze (montagu, 2023-05-02)

#392

CapeNature is also captured by incompetent beaurocracy with no experience in the real world with practical solutions to inevitable issues. We have experienced CapeNature shoulder shrugging incompetence.

Ulrike Breytenbach (Riebeek West, 2023-05-02)

#393

Gerrie is doing a very good service to the people and the snakes. Do not stop this!!!

Sarita Owen (Montagu, 2023-05-02)

#394

I agree with this petition

Wikus Opperman (Potchefstroom , 2023-05-02)

#395

Gerrie does a huge service for our community and I support his continuous educational talks at schools etc.

Sonya Ribeiro (Montagu, 2023-05-02)

#397

I believe the charges are not in the interest of justice being served

Emile Swanepoel (Montagu , 2023-05-02)

#398

I feel the charges are unfair. He has applied for his permit and does an amazing amount of good work.

Byron Zimmerman (Durban, 2023-05-02)

#399

Gerrie does excellent educational work that saves human as well as snakes lives

Hayley McLellan (Barrydale , 2023-05-02)

#400

I believe in what Gerrie is doing. Cape Nature should be fined.

Dylan Preece (Bredasdorp , 2023-05-02)