NEWSLETTER – APRIL 2025
CANNON ROCKS RATEPAYERS ASSOCIATION (CRRA)
More information is available on our website – www.cannonrocks.com
Cannon Rocks, Eastern Cape, South Africa
Traps, Snares & Building Sites – Threat to Wildlife
Imagine this: A bushbuck, grysbok, duiker or hare wandering through the veld, only to be caught in a snare. Not exactly the kind of “welcome to the neighbourhood” we want for our wildlife.
With ongoing construction, there is an increased risk of illegal traps and snares being set, often unnoticed until it is too late. These pose a serious threat to the animals that call this area home. That is why we are asking all property owners to have a serious chat with their building teams – a simple conversation can go a long way in preventing unnecessary harm.
Here is how you can all help:
Talk to your builders and workers – Remind them that traps and snares are illegal and harmful.
Stay vigilant – Keep an eye out for any suspicious activity near construction sites.
Report concerns – If you see something, say something.
Not sure who to tell? Give Paul a call – he is our Environment Portfolio Holder: 082 825 6401.
Wildlife is part of what makes this area special – let us ensure they stay safe.
Fire Extinguishers – Your Home’s First Line of Defence
Fires happen fast and without warning. Whether it is a kitchen flare-up, an electrical fault, or an unexpected spark from outside, having a fire extinguisher on hand can be the difference between a close call and a catastrophe.
But just owning one is not enough. Here is how to make sure you are truly prepared:
Easily accessible – Let the family know where the fire extinguisher is kept.
Check & Maintain – Regularly service on an annual basis.
Know How to Use It – Everyone in your home should know how to use it.
Pull the pin
Aim at the base of the fire
Squeeze the handle
Sweep from side to side
Be Prepared – Every household should have at least two 2.5kg powder fire extinguishers. A smaller 1kg – 1.5kg extinguisher is also useful to keep in the kitchen.
Important – Never run a generator indoors or leave it unattended.
Remember – Fire Safety Saves Lives
A fire extinguisher is a small investment that can save lives and property. Take a few minutes today to make sure yours is ready – you will be glad you did 
Palcare – Palliative Care Support in the Area
For those in need of palliative care services, Palcare provides compassionate support to patients and families facing serious illness. Their team ensures that care and guidance are accessible when needed.
For help, contact Palcare directly for local info. Our area’s palliative care sister is Sister Stephanie Bakkes – Palcare can share her contact details upon request.
Email: practicemanager@palcare.org.za
Telephone: 046 622 9661
Address: 15 Milner Street, Grahamstown, South Africa
Find them online:
Website: palcare.org.za
Facebook: PalcareZA
Instagram: @palcare_ec
Charity Shop: @palcarecharityshop
Palcare is dedicated to offering professional and compassionate support – please do not hesitate to reach out if you or loved one need assistance.
Recycling & Waste Disposal Update
Recycling collection has been discontinued and residents are advised not to leave recyclables at the Community Hall, as there will be no collection.
Additionally, do not leave rubbish in black bags on the pavement – ideally waste should be placed in a wheelie bin for collection.
If you are leaving Cannon Rocks before the scheduled rubbish collection day or if collection does not fall on a Monday, please make alternative arrangements.
Let us work together to keep our community clean. 
Eskom Bot – A Handy Tool You Might Not Know About
Although Eskom Bot (also known as Alfred) has been around for some time, many people are not aware of how it works or just how useful it can be.
This simple tool helps Eskom customers:
Stay updated on load-shedding schedules
Report power outages
Track the status of faults
How to Access Eskom Bot (Alfred):
On the Eskom website: Click the chatbot icon in the top menu
On WhatsApp: Save 08600 37566 and send a message to start chatting
Online: Learn more here
https://www.eskom.co.za/distribution/alfred-chat-bot/
Don’t Forget Your Monthly Meter Reading
If you are a direct Eskom customer, remember to submit your meter reading between the 1st and 3rd of each month using Eskom Bot. This helps ensure accurate billing.
What Eskom Bot Can Do:
Provide real-time load-shedding schedules
Log a power outage and track updates
Issue a reference number for easy follow-up
