Stories from the field and research below the surface

Plett's White Sharks, the Spotters, and Other Species

Get an inside look at the Shark Spotters programme in Plettenberg Bay, told through the experiences of two frontline spotters, Shariva Brand and Everol Williams. It explores how shark monitoring systems work in practice, how safety decisions are made, and how the programme supports both conservation and communityÂ safety. The talk also highlights personal journeys, skills development, and the growing role of community-based ocean stewardship.

Combining stories from the field with findings from long-term research, Melissa Nel offers a fascinating look at the wildlife that shares our coastline and demonstrates how community-based monitoring, conservation, and science can work together to better understand and protect Plettenberg Bayâ€™s marine environment.

Dive beneath the surface and find out: Where have all the white sharks gone? Discover more about the remarkable diversity just beyond the beaches, and what partnerships and photo-identification of the Bay's Pacific humpback dolphin residents reveal about their use of the bay.

ABOUT EVEROL WILLIAMS

Everol Williams is a Senior Shark Spotter with the Plett Shark Spotters programme, based in Tsitsikamma. Since joining the programme in 2022, he has gained extensive experience in shark monitoring, beach safety operations, and public engagement. His work combines real-time risk assessment with community education, helping to promote safer coastal use and stronger humanâ€“wildlife coexistence in Plettenberg Bay.

Passionate about ocean conservation and community involvement, Everol plays an important role in supporting shark safety initiatives and raising awareness about the importance of healthy marine ecosystems. Through his dedication and hands-on experience, he continues to contribute to the success of the Plett Shark Spotters programme and the protection of both people and marine wildlife.

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 has been closely involved in monitoring local shark activity and advancing marine conservation efforts. In 2024, Melissa took the helm as Programme Manager of Plett Shark Spotters, where she combines her passion for marine science with practical action, balancing shark research, public engagement, shark safety, and ocean stewardship.

Melissa completed her Masterâ€™s degree in Marine Science in 2025, with her research focusing on elasmobranchsâ€”sharks, rays, and skatesâ€”which remain her greatest scientific passion. Her work contributes to a deeper understanding of these remarkable species and their role in healthy marine ecosystems.

When she is not managing shark safety operations, engaging with the public, or contributing to marine research, Melissa can often be found free diving, surfing, or exploring the coastline in search of the next breathtaking ocean moment.

With salty hair and sandy toes, Melissa blends science with soul and is always eager to share her knowledge, inspiring a deeper connection to the ocean and a commitment to its conservation.

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Stories from the field and research below the surface

Plett's White Sharks, the Spotters, and Other Species

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