Zandvlei’s recreational potential was recognized in the late 19th century but active steps to realize it were long in coming. It hosted a few rowing regattas in the 1880s, became a popular boating venue in the early 1900s and later the home of Imperial Yacht Club, was partly dredged and landscaped by the City Council in the late 1950s, and then underwent massive changes with the Marina da Gama scheme backed by Anglo American in the 1970s. In addition to waterside housing the plan included a Gary Player-designed golf course and an ocean marina (neither were built.)

Gerald Rosenthal is a professional civil engineer who was from the outset a member of the professional team that designed Marina da Gama and has intimate knowledge of both Zandvlei’s history and the marina scheme, and its unbuilt components.

His talk will include back-stories to many of the physical features of the scheme – the banks and artificial rock features, water level control, reducing the effect of the wind, dredging and the planned, but not built, ocean harbour.

Visitors are more than welcome – R20 at the door which includes tea/coffee and biscuits afterwards

DATE: Monday 29 July at 8pm         
VENUE: St. James Retirement Hotel
SPEAKER: Dr Gerald Rosenthal

Hosted by the Kalk Bay Historical Association