A Collection of Poems
Over a number of years, Ray had written a number of poems, many of which were about rhinos and other endangered species and in 2018 he was encouraged to publish the poems. This resulted in the publication of ‘The Book of Poems – For the Rhino.’
In the book, Ray explores every aspect of the complex rhino poaching conundrum with poems about game rangers, about veterinary surgeons, about the big five, about poachers and their superstitious beliefs as well as strong conservation characters like Major General Jooste and Dr Jane Goodall DBE. His highly acclaimed tribute to Killer the hero anti- poaching dog features strongly as does the gut-wrenching, “My Son”
Major General Johan Jooste, head of anti-poaching for South African National Parks kindly wrote the foreword for the collection of the poems, saying, ‘’Ray’s passion for the African bush in all its facets and splendour combined with his dedication to the cause of the rhino, has made him a sort of “rhino whisperer” as he relates the realities of the rhino poaching scourge in a very authentic and genuinely emotional way. He has also unwittingly assumed the role of “rhino ambassador” who has committed personal time and resources to the overall rhino campaign. This will never be taken for granted.
Using his rare talent of writing up his experience of and exposure to the brutal so called “rhino war”, he has a unique appeal to us Africans and specifically those of us in the front line of combating those who plunder our natural resources and slaughter our rhino in a barbaric way.
These unique creatures of pre-historic origin which could be saved from near extinction in South Africa in the previous century are relying on us and we rely on the genuine and demonstrated support of friends like Ray. I salute him with gratitude on behalf of all those who would forever get a lump in the throat when we read the valued poems.’
If you would like to buy a copy of The Book of Poems “For the Rhino”, please send an email to Ray. The cost is $15,00 including delivery
Two world-class vets, Dr Chris Brown and Dr Pete Morkel
