COLLABORATION

Klaserie Private Nature Reserve Annual General Meeting 2026

04/08/2026

A Weekend of Governance, Knowledge, and Community

The Klaserie Private Nature Reserve Annual General Meeting (AGM), held on 11 July 2026, was far more than a formal gathering of members. It was a celebration of the people, partnerships, and shared commitment that continue to shape one of Africa’s truly wild landscapes. Over the course of two days, members came together to engage in meaningful discussion, learn from conservation experts and researchers, participate in the governance of the reserve, and strengthen the sense of community that lies at the heart of the Klaserie.

Setting the Stage

The weekend commenced on Friday, 10 July, with an informal members’ meeting at Klaserie Headquarters. This session provided an invaluable opportunity for members to openly discuss the agenda ahead of the AGM, deliberate on important matters affecting the reserve, ask questions, and engage in constructive conversations with fellow members, the elected Executive Committee and management.

These informal discussions have become an important part of the AGM process, encouraging transparency, collaboration, and informed decision making before formal resolutions are put forward for voting.

Governance in Action

On Saturday, 11 July, members reconvened for the official Annual General Meeting.

The AGM remains one of the most important events on the Klaserie calendar, providing members with the opportunity to actively participate in the governance of the reserve. Throughout the morning, members voted on key agenda items and elected representatives to serve on the Executive Committee, ensuring that the reserve continues to benefit from strong leadership and responsible stewardship.

Chairperson Caryn Myers and General Manager Gus van Dyk presented their respective Annual Reports, reflecting on the achievements, challenges, and progress made over the past year. From conservation initiatives and security operations to infrastructure improvements and community engagement, the report highlighted the collective efforts of staff, members, researchers, and partners in protecting the Klaserie’s remarkable wilderness.

Collaborative Research Across the APNR

One of the highlights of the AGM was an exceptional programme of guest presentations, showcasing the collaborative conservation work taking place across the Greater Kruger landscape.

Members were privileged to hear from students and experts representing some of South Africa’s leading conservation organisations, each sharing valuable insights into current research and conservation priorities.

Presentations included:

Ronya from the Endangered Wildlife Trust (EWT), who provided an update on the status and conservation of African wild dogs across the Associated Private Nature Reserves (APNR).
Carina from Tshwane University of Technology (TUT), who shared her fascinating research into buffalo populations within the APNR and the important role these iconic animals play within the ecosystem.
Carrie and Kyle from the UCT FitzPatrick Institute of African Ornithology, and the APNR Ground Hornbill Project who highlighted ongoing Ground Hornbill conservation efforts and the importance of long-term monitoring and research.
John Davies from the Endangered Wildlife Trust, who discussed the conservation of Africa’s threatened vulture species and the increasing pressures they face.
Justin Henry from BirdLife South Africa, who presented on the devastating impact of lead poisoning on scavenging birds, (following an informative ballistic gel demonstration at the shooting range for members interested in understanding how different ammunition performs) and how non-lead alternatives can effectively replace lead bullets.
Francois, who shared insights into the ecology and behaviour of KPNR’s spotted hyaenas, offering members a greater appreciation for one of Africa’s most misunderstood carnivores.

Together, these presentations reinforced the importance of science, collaboration, and adaptive management in ensuring the long-term protection of the Klaserie and the broader Greater Kruger ecosystem.

Bringing the Community Together

Following the formal proceedings, members and their families gathered on the lawns of Klaserie Headquarters for a relaxed afternoon of good food, conversation, and celebration.

Guests enjoyed a delicious bush braai prepared by the Klaserie team, while the Klaserie Gin station offered tastings of the reserve’s signature spirit. An elegant sponsored wine tasting station provided the perfect complement to the afternoon, allowing members to unwind and socialise after a productive morning.

Families were warmly welcomed, with a jumping castle keeping younger visitors entertained while adults enjoyed the opportunity to reconnect, network, and spend time together in the beautiful surroundings of Klaserie Headquarters.

The afternoon reflected what makes the Klaserie community so unique. Beyond the meetings, reports, and governance, it was an opportunity to strengthen friendships, welcome new members, celebrate achievements, and create lasting memories with the dedicated staff and people who work tirelessly to protect this extraordinary landscape.

Looking Ahead

The Annual General Meeting serves as an important reminder that conservation is built on more than wildlife alone. It depends on strong governance, informed decision making, scientific collaboration, committed staff, engaged members, and a shared vision for the future.

The Klaserie Private Nature Reserve extends its sincere thanks to every member, guest speaker, staff member, volunteer, and family who contributed to making the 2026 AGM such a memorable and successful weekend.