Eyes on the Bay

The Plett Shark Spotters program has played a key role in ocean safety, public education, and marine monitoring since its launch, bridging the gap between conservation and coastal recreation. Insights from the 2024 operational data, including water user trends, shark and cetacean sightings, and safety interventions will be presented. These findings highlight how real-time monitoring and public engagement can reduce risk while fostering ocean stewardship.

Building on this foundation,  preliminary findings from research on the spatial and temporal dynamics of elasmobranch communities in Plettenberg Bay will be explored. Using a combination of BRUV data, Robberg observations, and opportunistic records, this study assesses species composition, diversity, and relative abundance across habitats and seasons.

These two streams of work provide a holistic picture of shark and ray activity in the bay—helping to inform science-based conservation and future marine management efforts.

Each session consists of 20-minute presentations, followed by a joint Q&A session of 15 minutes.

ABOUT MELISSA NEL

Melissa Nel is a marine biologist with a deep love for the ocean and all its finned, flippered, and fascinating creatures. Since moving to Plettenberg Bay in 2019, she’s been keeping a close eye on local shark activity as a research assistant at the time. In 2024, Melissa took the helm as programme manager of the Plett Shark Spotters, where she combines her passion for marine science with on-the-ground action—balancing shark research, public engagement, and ocean stewardship. She’s currently wrapping up her Master’s in Marine Science (2025), where her research dives deep into the world of elasmobranchs—her true scientific passion. When she's not wrangling data or managing shark safety patrols, you’ll likely find her free diving, surfing, or chasing sunsets along the coast.

With salty hair and sandy toes, Melissa blends science with soul, and is always ready to share her knowledge to inspire ocean connection and conservation.

ABOUT NICKY NAMNTU

Nicky Namntu is the dedicated field manager of the Plett Shark Spotters program in Plettenberg Bay. Raised in Keurbooms with a deep love for the ocean, she overcame a childhood fear of water to become a passionate marine conservationist. 

Nicky began her career with Shark Spotters as a shark spotter and was later promoted to the position of field manager for the Plett Shark Spotters program. In this role, she oversees operations aimed at reducing shark-human conflicts, ensuring beach safety, and promoting marine conservation. Her responsibilities also include community education and collaboration with research institutions like the Orca Foundation.