Here’s how to help support our flood repair plan
Chairman’s Report – FatTracks AGM 2025
Recent storms have left the Baakens Valley severely battered. Trails that we’ve spent years building, maintaining, and perfecting have been washed out, eroded, and in many places left unrideable. It’s a significant blow, but it’s definitely not the end of the road.
The storms caused widespread damage across the valley trail network. Erosion, collapsed sections, washed-out paths, and damaged infrastructure have affected a large portion of our 20+km of trails. Some areas are in better shape than others, but the scale of the rebuild ahead is considerable.
If you’re planning to ride: please use all trails with extreme caution. Many sections are still unsafe, and we ask that you respect the process as we work to get things back in order.
We’re already on the ground
Our incredible FatTracks trails team didn’t waste any time. Within days of the storms, Brenton van Waltsleben and our trails crew were already out assessing damage and making urgent repairs. Volunteers from WESSA and TidyBaakens have also pitched in, tackling alien vegetation while our security partners at Tacnet continue to patrol the trails.
We’ve been doing reconnaissance, sourcing materials, and we are coordinating with the Nelson Mandela Bay Metro to pool resources and avoid duplicating efforts.
A TLB has been hired for the heavier work, and planning for a phased rebuild is already underway.
Please join this community effort
The scale of the repairs is bigger than any one team. We’re calling on our members, the wider valley community, and anyone with a stake in keeping this incredible green space alive and accessible.
There are several ways you can help:
- Volunteer your time – even a few hours a day makes a difference. No trail building experience necessary. Contact Marius or Brenton to get involved.
- Donate materials – we have a list of urgent material needs below. If you can source or donate any of these items, please reach out.
- Spread the word – share this post, talk to your network, and help us build momentum for the rebuild.
- Financial support – we’re also exploring a BackaBuddy campaign to raise funds. Watch this space.
If you have your own initiative or plan to assist with repairs in any part of the valley, please reach out to the committee first so we can coordinate efforts and make sure nothing gets duplicated.
The bigger picture
The Baakens Valley doesn’t just belong to mountain bikers. It’s a shared green lung for our city – used by walkers, trail runners, birders, and families. Keeping it accessible and well-maintained benefits everyone. That’s always been what FatTracks is about.
To get involved, contact:
Thank you for your support. Let’s get the valley back on track!
What we need right now
If you can source, donate, or help fund any of the following, please get in touch with Marius or Brenton directly.
Phase 1 — Immediate Needs:
- Soil to fill eroded areas and dongas
- G5 (compactible) soil
- Gravel / crush
- Pallets / wooden planks
- Wooden poles (various thickness and lengths)
- Wire
- Mesh
- Long nails
- Rope
- Spades and wheelbarrows
- Stampers / petrol compactors
- Chainsaw
Phase 2 — Rebuilding:
- Stones / rocks (for rebuilding of gabions)
- Mesh
- Chains
- Bridge materials
Offers of heavy equipment – even at cost – will also be greatly appreciated. We are currently hiring a TLB but any additional support in this area makes a real difference.
