The public is invited to a beach clean-up, drum-up and fire-up, event on the beach by Strand Surf Lifesaving Club, at Strand Beach on Friday January 31, at 6pm. The evening is in aid of a local snake catcher.

To be a snake catcher is a risky, often life-threatening undertaking and most certainly not cut out for the faint-hearted but for certified snake catcher, Blackie Swart, the risks associated with this daring task is significantly outweighed by his passion for the well-being of wildlife.

The removal of snakes from the homes and properties of panic-stricken people in the Helderberg area he says, is more of a calling than a job. A calling this Somerset West resident (operating under Blackie Swart Snake Relocations 24/7) has been committed to for the past 12 years.

All in a day’s work! Being called out to capture and release snakes is what Blackie Swart, a former policeman, has been doing for the past 12 years.

But snake catching is not without its financial demands and for Blackie, who does these callouts without charging a fixed fee (instead solely relying on donations) the costs can become burdensome.

Equipment he requires include snake handling gloves, tongs, tubs, sanitising equipment, antibacterial medication as well as fuel costs to cover the callouts. The gloves, he says is the most pressing need. “Not all snake catchers use gloves, but I prefer to use it as it adds an extra layer of safety.”

Furthermore, he needs to make provision for any possible medical expenses incurred in future. “Donations will make a huge difference,” he says.

The Helderberg Ocean Awareness Movement (HOAM) will host the event in collaboration with local fire dancers performing to the beats of drummers from Drumba Rhythm for Life. Adding to the line-up is a special guest performance by Saarah the Lyrical Activist.

Those joining the clean-up will be entertained by local artist Saarah The Lyrical Activist making an appearance to perform.

Lisa Starr, founder of HOAM expressed her excitement leading up this dual-purposed initiative. “We are so excited for the first #cleanupdrumfireup for 2025. This unique gathering brings the community together for change. It’s paramount that we look after our environment, keep it clean and more hands make lighter work.

“At every gathering we collect items or donations for a local charity too. The attendees are then treated to a rhythmic and visual display from local artists who give their time for nature,” she said. Adding that this time around the goal is to collect donations for Blackie so he can get new protective gloves.

Blackie will also do an educational talk at the event. “I want to share my knowledge and teach the public about the nature and purpose of snakes with the hope that in educating people I will help them overcome their fear of snakes.”

Lisa extended the invite to all. “Pop down and join the vibe, if you have an instrument, bring it too.”

“What makes my work so rewarding is when I show up and find people trembling with fear and to then to see them breathe a sigh of relief when I capture the snake and release it back into a natural habitat. It’s not about the money, but about keeping people safe, seeing the gratitude on their faces and knowing that with my help people can sleep peacefully,” said Blackie.

Clean-up volunteers will get to jam to the beat of the drum as drummers will add some musical ambience to the event.