Article and photos by Gabriel Francke
SWELLENDAM – Distinguished Professor at the Evolutionary Studies Institute at the University of Witwatersrand, Bruce Rubidge, shared his passion and knowledge of the ancient Karoo fossils, which is the Cradle of Mammals, at Wildebraam Berry Farm on August 28.
This event titled “Rediscovering the Ancient Karoo – the internationally acclaimed Karoo fossil record and its relevance to us today” acknowledged many great fossil collectors like James Kitching, who is known for collecting the most fossils in the world.
Rubidge’s grandfather collected fossils way before the Heritage restriction started in 1940, stating that any fossils found belongs to the state, therefore his grandfather could keep the fossils he collected. Bruce not only comes from of great fossil collectors, but also trained two guides who take people on fossil hunting expeditions.
During his presentation, Rubidge went on to express his love and passion for fossil collections and history of South Africa’s fossil heritage which includes the ancestors of dinosaurs, tortoises and mammals.
Hence his research revealed that the earliest mammals originated in the Karoo Basin, making the area a globally significant site for palaeontological study.
“South Africa has an amazing fossil history, in fact you can mention fossils without mentioning South Africa”, he added.
Rubidge’s goal now is to explore exciting new possibilities for paleontological tourism, and he also opened an Exhibition-; Palaeontology Research- and Educational Outreach Centre where tourists can look at/for fossils and learn in the process.
He believes that if something is not found yet, that does not mean someone would not find it, therefore driving his passion to learn and explore.
“One of the things I’ve learned is to never, say never”, he explained.
The Sessional Lecturer of Witwatersrand University, Viv Crone, and manager of this wonderful ‘Friends and Neighbours August 2025 Event’ expressed his gratitude by thanking Prof Bruce Rubidge for the amends of knowledge and wisdom, with snacks and wine for the people afterwards.
The questions left for our readers is which history or ancestor to you arrive from; is it Mammals? Or is it from evolution?
