Beware the quad squad

THE threat that quad bikers pose to the Wild Coast is growing at an alarming rate, say local tour operators. They claim the southern Wild Coast has seen the birth of several illegal quad bike tracks and quads are racing through rural villages, gardens, eco-tourism destinations and beaches, leaving behind destruction. “The Gates” in Qolora, a popular bio-sphere area is said to be one of the most affected areas. According to Michael Denison, of African Heartland Adventures, communities become alienated from and aggressive towards these outsiders. There is also a blatant disrespect for the coastline and beaches, he says, and a total disregard for the rich and diverse fauna and flora of the area. Jeanette Briedenhann (jeanetteb@nowmedia.co.za)