The controversial process of fracking (short for hydraulic fracturing) for shale gas, has recently come under intense scrutiny, and been a hotly contested subject amongst the local and international press.
Seen as a means to release untapped energy sources, fracking pumps water, sand and chemicals deep underground at high pressure to free gas from rock. The burning question asked, is whether we should preserve the tranquil Karoo, or mine the shale gas buried 5000m below its surface.
The jury is out, but the public has come out vociferously in support of saving the Karoo and its water resources. Titans of industry like GT Ferreira have lent their voices in support of protecting the Karoo, and calls for mass action to raise funds to fight this battle in the courtroom and not just in the media, shows the public’s resolve.
In support of raising funds for the legal battle, Graff’s Delaire, a renowned wine estate in Stellenbosch, has offered its venue for an exclusive dinner for 80 people at a cost of R1500 a head on 24 September.
With acclaimed environmental campaigner Lewis Pugh, who has pioneered more swims around famous landmarks than any other swimmer, and entertainment by David Kramer, guests will dine over fine Karoo lamb while being informed on what fracking truly entails.
Additional funds will be raised through an auction by leading auctioneer, Ariella Kuper of Auction Alliance. Included in the auction, are art works by some of South Africa’s leading artists and sculptors, wines and luxury weekend experiences.
The art which will be offered includes works by Angus Taylor, Shany van den Berg, Gail Caitlin, Walter Meyer, Keith Joubert, Strijdom van der Merwe and Dylan Lewis who recently held a sell out exhibition at Christies in the UK for the second time.
