Ripple Effect gathering postponed – plan underway for even stronger event in 2026

Earlier this month, we had to make the tough call to postpone The Ripple Effect public gathering and paddle-out in Langebaan. This wasn’t an easy decision. The team had been preparing for months, and were looking forward to coming together with everyone who cares about the West Coast. But some last-minute challenges emerged that meant a safe and comfortable environment for participants could not be guaranteed.

Despite meticulous planning for several months, unforeseen last minute challenges around beach permits meant that the PTWC team could not guarantee the safety and comfort of participants at our Ripple Effect gathering on the beach in Langebaan.

We felt it was better to pause and regroup next year, which has given us opportunities to make positive changes to the format and content of the event. As our Managing Director, Mike Schlebach, says: “We know how much people were looking forward to this. It was a difficult call, but the right one. Everyone’s safety comes first, and this gives us the chance to come back even stronger next year.”

“We are working to hold a special Ripple Effect summit in early 2026 at a new West Coast venue, with more time to plan and prepare for something really special,” Schlebach says.

Thank you to everyone who has supported this event so far, especially the team at Re-Wild and David Harper in Langebaan. Your enthusiasm and commitment mean the world to us.

In the meantime, please help us keep up the momentum by signing and sharing our petition calling for a moratorium on new mining applications until a more strategic approach to managing the West Coast’s natural resources is put in place.

Sign Petition

https://mailchi.mp/protectthewestcoast/the-ripple-effect-petition

If you have not done so yet, you can also register on PTWC’s digital platform Ripl, which simplifies the Public Participation Process to enable people to easily monitor and comment on mining applications. Sign up to ensure your voice is heard.

Sign up to Ripl: www.ripl.co.za

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