SA Falconry Clubs
Background & History
SA Falconry Club History
Natal Falconry Club
The story of falconry in Natal begins in 1962 with the founding of the Natal Falconry Club (NFC) by Doug and Brenda Woods, and Aubrey Neale, a man inspired by the resurgence of the sport in the UK. Before this, the skies of Natal were untouched by organized falconry. Early days were filled with adventure, as members like Robbie Robinson Jr. discovered the club through unexpected means, initially seeking to uncover illegal raptor exports. The NFC’s journey included building a strong relationship with the Natal Parks Board (NPB) through conservation efforts, using wild-caught Lanner falcons, and navigating the challenges of early hunting practices. Though the club faced a critical moment in the late 1980s, the dedication of key figures like Aubrey Neale, Alan Cobden, and Tom Davidson brought about a revival. The influx of experienced falconers from Rhodesia, led by Tom Davidson, and the creation of a cadet branch at Hilton College, have shaped the NFC into the thriving club it is today.”
SA Falconry Clubs
Transvaal Falconry
The journey of organized falconry in South Africa took its first step with the establishment of the Transvaal Falconry Association (TFA) in 1970. Though pioneering, the TFA’s path was fraught with challenges, including administrative burdens and internal conflicts, resulting in its closure after just six years. The early 1980s saw continued struggles with permit inconsistencies and bureaucratic hurdles. A defining moment occurred on September 7, 1983, when falconers, with strong representation from Paul Venter and Chris Olwagen, made a passionate case for the sport. Despite their efforts, permits were suspended in 1984, leading many to abandon falconry, while others persisted outside legal channels. In 1985, a renewed sense of purpose sparked the formation of the Transvaal Falconry Club (TFC). On September 28, 1985, a group of 15 members, gathered to establish the TFC. They quickly moved to engage with the Division of Nature Conservation, outlining their aims and addressing previous concerns, securing a vital meeting on November 10, 1985.”
SA Falconry Clubs
Background & History
The story of falconry in Natal begins in 1962 with the founding of the Natal Falconry Club (NFC) by Doug and Brenda Woods, and Aubrey Neale, a man inspired by the resurgence of the sport in the UK. Before this, the skies of Natal were untouched by organized falconry. Early days were filled with adventure, as members like Robbie Robinson Jr. discovered the club through unexpected means, initially seeking to uncover illegal raptor exports. The NFC’s journey included building a strong relationship with the Natal Parks Board (NPB) through conservation efforts, using wild-caught Lanner falcons, and navigating the challenges of early hunting practices. Though the club faced a critical moment in the late 1980s, the dedication of key figures like Aubrey Neale, Alan Cobden, and Tom Davidson brought about a revival. The influx of experienced falconers from Rhodesia, led by Tom Davidson, and the creation of a cadet branch at Hilton College, have shaped the NFC into the thriving club it is today.”
SA Falconry Clubs
Transvaal Falconry
The journey of organized falconry in South Africa took its first step with the establishment of the Transvaal Falconry Association (TFA) in 1970. Though pioneering, the TFA’s path was fraught with challenges, including administrative burdens and internal conflicts, resulting in its closure after just six years. The early 1980s saw continued struggles with permit inconsistencies and bureaucratic hurdles. A defining moment occurred on September 7, 1983, when falconers, with strong representation from Paul Venter and Chris Olwagen, made a passionate case for the sport. Despite their efforts, permits were suspended in 1984, leading many to abandon falconry, while others persisted outside legal channels. In 1985, a renewed sense of purpose sparked the formation of the Transvaal Falconry Club (TFC). On September 28, 1985, a group of 15 members, gathered to establish the TFC. They quickly moved to engage with the Division of Nature Conservation, outlining their aims and addressing previous concerns, securing a vital meeting on November 10, 1985.”
SA Falconry Clubs
Free State Falconry Club
The legalization of falconry in the area owes much to Alex Louw and Nikus Horn, who, in 1988, discovered a legal means of obtaining birds from Bophuthatswana. Their passion for the sport led to the introduction of Francois Breedt, who later took the reins of the club upon their move to Transvaal. While membership numbers remain modest, the club’s strength lies in its active breeding programs. The wide-open spaces and abundant game of the Free State create ideal conditions for falconry.
SA Falconry
In South Africa, falconry started organisationally, becoming structured in the 1990s. Discover more by seeing SA Falconry in motion.
© Avibus. All Rights Reserved.