Defying Fear: Stabbed Hiking Couple Reclaims Cape Trails in the Fight for Safety

Three years after a life-threatening attack on one of Cape Town's most iconic hiking trails, Don and Yvonne Cormack bravely returned to the paths of Table Mountain. The couple from Harlow, Essex, who were victims of a brutal stabbing near Silvermine in 2018, stood alongside local hikers this Sunday to send a clear message: It's time to reclaim the safety of Cape Town’s beloved trails.

The recent rally, attended by the Cormacks, now aged 77 and 73, shed light on the alarming rise in criminal activities that have shaken the tight-knit hiking community. Table Mountain National Parks (TMNP) has witnessed over 20 distressing incidents in just a few months, ranging from muggings to more severe and traumatic events, as reported by the Cape Argus. In one chilling episode that underscores the seriousness of the situation, TMNP rangers apprehended a 23-year-old male suspect after an attempted rape and robbery at Lion’s Head.

The suspect, now facing severe legal charges, demonstrates the relentless efforts of authorities to fight back against the wave of crime. Police spokesperson FC Van Wyk conveyed the police's commitment to this battle, asserting their stance against the suspect's bail application.

Echoing the authorities' determination, Andy Davies, chairperson of Friends of Table Mountain, highlighted that muggings and a list of 16 identified hotspots are the preeminent safety issues plaguing the picturesque TMNP. In response, multi-agency joint operations have been activated, combining the force of SANParks rangers, the City of Cape Town’s metro police, and law enforcement officers to establish a stronger front against criminal activities within the park's expansive 27,000 hectares.

Aside from the increased security measures, the rallying of community organizations like Take Back Our Mountain and the Hikers Network plays a crucial role in bolstering awareness and promoting strategies for safe hiking. The Cormacks participated in a hike organized by these groups, traversing routes from Grootkop through Red Hill to Kleinplaas Dam. This hike not only served to spotlight the pressing need for heightened safety but also aimed to educate participants on how to protect themselves.

This gathering was more than an act of protest; it was a therapeutic moment for the Cormacks, signifying their unwavering resolve to continue the hobby they love despite their traumatic experience. Indeed, as Don Cormack expressed, succumbing to fear would have meant letting their attackers triumph. His defiant stance, supported by the boundless encouragement from the community, underscores the defiance of hikers who refuse to be intimidated by criminal elements.

Yvonne Cormack's shared tenacity mirrors her husband's sentiments, underlining a joint commitment to enjoy the country's stunning landscapes without yielding to threats.

At the heart of the rally's message, according to Anwaaz Bent, a former Wilderness Search and Rescue member and current president of The Hikers Network, is the aim to strengthen the community's knowledge on safe hiking practices and to foster an environment where outdoor enthusiasts can freely explore without fear.

The Cormacks' story is a testimony of resilience, and their active participation in the rally represents a broader call for greater safety that resonates with many who cherish Cape Town’s natural heritage. As organizations continue to address these challenges, the hope is to restore the dignity of Table Mountain and ensure it remains a haven for both locals and visitors alike.