Noordhoek residents lead a 'peace walk' in defiance of recent beach attacks

Noordhoek residents begin their Peace Walk to reclaim the space

Noordhoek residents lead a ‘peace walk’ in defiance of recent beach attacks

What great spirit these guys have!

Noordhoek residents lead a 'peace walk' in defiance of recent beach attacks

Noordhoek residents begin their Peace Walk to reclaim the space

A Neighbourhood Watch group of about 60 people braved the long walk up Noordhoek beach this weekend to show solidarity in the face of terror, as reported by SA People.

On Thursday 30th November, Austrian couple Klaus and Johanna Michl were nearing the end of what seemed to be a dream vacation across the Cape. They’d visited the Mother City, travelled the Garden Route, and got some much needed R and R in Hermanus.

However, that dream became a nightmare when the pair – both in their sixties – were attacked by a knife-wielding assailant. A man appeared from behind the dunes and attacked them. A second, less violent attack occurred soon after.

Beach attack in Noordhoek

Klaus was stabbed five times – thrice in the abdomen, once in his side and once in his chest. Johanna was stabbed in the neck. The attacker left with their backpack containing travel documents and other valuables, including a camera.

Thankfully, a woman walking her dog was able to help the couple and get emergency medial help. Both have survived their ordeal, but it is still such a tragic state of affairs. The beach, and the town, have been on high alert ever since. But the Neighbourhood Watch are fighting back.

South Africans reclaim their space

Group member Penny van Zyl was part of the coastal walk, organised so Noordhoek residents could reclaim their space. They strolled from one side of the beach to the other, to prove that the criminals can not break their spirit. Van Zyl described the event as an out and out success:

“I got messages from about 60 people saying they could not cope with the wind, so they were with us in spirit… and spirits were high amongst the group who walked. We sprinkled lots of love, peace and harmony as we walked along what must be one of the most beautiful beaches in the world.

“We sent love and light to the Michls and the other families who have been mugged on the beach over the past few months. “We even had a group of tourists joining our walk yesterday – loved their positive vibe; and the hectic South Easter did not phase them at all!”

The serendipity is truly brilliant. In times like these, communities must stick together and fight against the evils that threaten innocent people. We salute Noordhoek, and hope that the gorgeous beach can resume normal service soon.