Visitors to Simons Town may be asking “why did the penguin cross the road?” but the town’s new penguin crossings are no joke- they’re a new initiative aimed at highlighting the seaside town’s unique quirks and arguably, its most famous residents.
Following an address by Minister of Economic Opportunities, Alan Winde, to the Simons Town Business Council in which he encouraged them to harness their tourism potential by highlighting the things that make them unique, members decided to paint penguins onto the town’s pedestrian crossings.
The Simons Town Business Association said they had been inspired by some of the examples Minister Winde had shown them from around the world, and in consultation with the City Council and the Civic Association, had set to work.
The result is a series of African penguins appearing to waddle across the town’s pedestrian crossings, which happen to perfectly match their famous tuxedos.
Minister Winde said: “When I addressed them, I told the STBA to focus on the things that make them unique. I am absolutely delighted that they took that idea and ran with it, resulting in something that is really special. Boulders Beach is a world famous penguin colony, home to the endangered African penguin and this endeavour shows the town’s love and support for these birds. This is the kind of thing that makes for great holiday photos that can then be shared on social media, raising the profile of Simons Town, around the world.
“This weekend looks to be like lovely beach weather, so it’s a perfect opportunity to go have a look at the penguin crossings, and support a local business while they’re at it. The Southern African Foundation for the Conservation of Coastal Birds (SANCCOB) will also be hosting annual Penguin Festival in Simon’s Town on Saturday, 10 November, in celebration of African penguin awareness, presenting another opportunity to visit. We do however urge those taking photos on the street to exercise caution and to only do so when it is completely safe,” Minister Winde said.
Media queries:
Bianca Capazorio
Tel: 021 483 3550
Cell: 072 372 7044
E-mail: bianca.capazorio@westerncape.gov.za
