GeoSphere

Update from Marcia van Aswegen

The meeting focused on the progress and challenges of establishing geoparks in South Africa, with a particular emphasis on UNESCO's requirements and the role of the Geological Society of South Africa (GSSA). Marcia announced a strategic shift, proposing to use Dr. Khodani Machusa's framework for geoparks in South Africa as a basis for action, rather than waiting for the formation of a National Committee for UNESCO (NATCOM). She highlighted the need to start collecting data and engaging with communities. MvA noted that GSSA intends to identify a new head for the GSSA's Geoscience and Society Division to support broader national efforts. The group discussed the importance of collaboration with various government departments, including the Department of Forestry, Fisheries, and Environment (DFFE), and the challenges posed by the Council for Geoscience's lack of participation. The conversation ended with plans to hold a follow-up meeting in May…

Update on Geodyssey and related activities:

• Data

  • LG is assisting with packaging of data for app developers

  • This includes a review of data and recommendations for data management going forward

  • Meeting was held between CP-C and LG to discuss what needs to be done.

  • LG received data on 2 February 2026. Review in progress.

As some of you already know, I joined the University of the Western Cape (UWC) Virtual Geological Field Trips (VFTs) team in early 2024 to develop a series of VFTs, primarily to document and showcase our rich geoheritage, to prepare students for field-based learning, and to support geoscience education.

These interactive tours, which showcase key geological features of the Western Cape, are hosted by the UWC and continue to be refined, with improved video sound quality and expanded content.

Our current VFTs (which, unfortunately are very data-heavy, so best viewed with strong internet connectivity), listed by date, with No. 6 being the-most recent, include:

1. Southwestern Cape – focused on the Cape Granite and Malmesbury Group exposures, including several sites of academic and geohistorical significance (e.g. Paarl Rock and the VOC "silver mines" on the slopes of Simonsberg Mountain).

2. Laingsburg – highlighting upper Cape Supergroup and lower Karoo Supergroup exposures which are both…

Article in Daily Maverick 12 March 2026 by Julienne Du Toit:

"The Karoo Origins Fossil Centre in Graaff-Reinet showcases ancient life, highlighting Professor Bruce Rubidge’s passionate journey from childhood fossil discoveries to a world-class palaeontological research hub."

https://www.dailymaverick.co.za/article/2026-03-12-the-karoo-fossil-finder-discovering-lifefe-before-the-dinosaurs-in-south-africas/