Crocworld’s bids farewell to Centre Manager, James Wittstock

Taking on the role of Crocworld Conservation Centre during one of tourism’s most challenging times, James Wittstock (29) navigated through the storm, ensuring the continued success of this popular Scottburgh-based centre. In January 2025, Wittstock will be handing over the reins to incoming Centre Manager, Susan Badat, as he continues his journey onto Mozambique.

It was in August 2019 that Wittstock started at Crocworld in the role of Reptile Curator. Just over a year later, he assumed the role of Centre Manager, seeing five years of positive change during his tenure. Commenting on some of the developments, he noted:

“Everything from the way we look after the animals to the animals we have at the centre has evolved, with many exciting projects undertaken during this time. We have a number of new species on site, including two new crocodilian species, with refurbishments and revamps to enhance the centre for animals and visitors alike.”

One of the biggest revamps has been to the on-site Fish Eagle Café, a well-positioned restaurant with a wraparound deck boasting endless views of the Indian Ocean. From this location, hungry patrons can enjoy a variety of freshly made meals, superb cocktails, and desserts while catching glimpses of passing whales and frolicking dolphins.

Wittstock says that, while the pandemic was one of the biggest blows to the tourism sector, it was also one of the best times for bringing people together with the animals top of mind: “We had to close the centre for 145 days consecutively but during this time, all the staff stayed on and we were able to come into work every day to care for the animals. We have built an incredible culture at the centre – there’s a really great group of people here, without whom, things simply wouldn’t get done.”

Another addition to Crocworld has been expanding the centre to include tenants, among them WildED, a conservation-focused educational organisation that arranges tours, hikes, holiday programmes and more to engage with the natural world. The latest offering is Jikaleza Outdoor Adventures, one of the only aerial zipline adventures of its kind in the region, where visitors of all ages can enjoy a treetop obstacle course that’s not only fun – but a great workout too.

Commenting on what sets Crocworld apart, Wittstock said, alongside the incredible people and animals, was the centre’s impressive setting and international husbandry standards: “Our attention to detail is critical, and we have an incredible record with regards to our animal care and rehabilitation. This is also one of the most scenic working environments, with ocean views, natural coastal forests, and incredible birdlife.”

Wittstock said, while he’s going to miss the people and the park, he knows he’s leaving the centre in the capable hands of Susan Badat: “I would like to thank everyone, from the centre staff and visitors, to our partners at KZN Wildlife, FreeMe, local vets, and conservationists that work with us to keep this incredible centre running.”

Although he’s leaving Crocworld, Wittstock will remain with the Crookes Brothers Ltd, taking on the position of Quality Process Manager at Murrimo Macadamias in Gurue, Mozambique.

Don’t miss out on all the exciting changes Susan Badat and her team have in store for Crocworld! For more information about Crocworld Conservation Centre, call 039 976 1103, visit www.crocworld.co.za or Crocworld Conservation Centre on Facebook and Instagram. Visit Jikaleza Outdoor Adventures Facebook page for more information or call 068 255 7200 to book.