The Department of Tourism launched the Stony Point Eco-Centre in the Overstrand region of the Western Cape last week. It will serve as a visitor centre with adjoining restaurant.

Tourism Minister, Derek Hanekom, said the new centre was an important asset for tourism, for nearby communities and for conservation efforts.

Large numbers of endangered African penguins breed at Stony Point, attracting over 100 000 visitors a year.

The project was funded by the National Department of Tourism through the Expanded Public Works Programme. It was developed in partnership with the Mooiuitsig Community Trust, which has the commercial rights to manage the restaurant and eco-centre.  The project included the construction of a parking area, paving and walkways, and ablution facilities.

The On the Edge restaurant is staffed by members of the nearby Mooiuitsig community, who underwent training before the restaurant opened.

Hanekom said the conversion of buildings used for the unsustainable practice of whaling in the past to an Eco-Centre would help to spread the message of sustainability and the conservation of natural resources for the future.

“Stony Point can become a node that could support a local curio industry and other small businesses providing tourism services,” said Hanekom.

The Stony Point Peninsula is adjacent to the Betty’s Bay Marine Protected Area and forms part of the Overstrand Hope Spot.