SANParks Appoint New Senior Manager for Table Mountain National Park

The appointment of a new Senior Manager: Visitor Safety & Protection Services for Table Mountain National Park (TMNP) has been announced by South African National Parks (SANParks). The announcement of Mr. Heinrych Aylward was made today via a press release dated 15 December 2025. According to the release, this appointment follows extensive stakeholder engagements which highlighted the need for a dedicated specialist to lead efforts in strengthening visitor safety and protection systems.

The role will also oversee the coordination of volunteers and partnerships supporting safety and security across TMNP.

Mr. Aylward brings a wealth of experience spanning policing, forensic investigations, and security management. He began his career in the South African Police Service (SAPS) from 1988 to 2002, serving in several specialised units including Cape Town International Airport, Public Order Policing, Flying Squad, Cape Town Tourist Protection Unit, and the Commercial Crimes Unit. His work exposed him to tactical policing, community engagement, public relations, investigative work, and high-level security operations.

Notably, he was seconded to the United States as a security supervisor, where he supported the US Secret Service during the Atlanta Olympic Games. He concluded his SAPS service as a Detective Warrant Officer.
Between 2002 and 2020, Mr. Aylward served as a Forensics Manager within the FirstRand Banking Group, working across multiple business units.

His portfolio included fraud and corruption investigations, card and electronic security, fleet forensics, and serving as an expert witness in court proceedings. His academic background includes BTech studies in serious and violent crime (including ATM explosive investigations), fraud and corruption, and advanced intelligence methodologies.

He has also contributed his expertise voluntarily to the TMNP Forum’s Safety and Security Sub-Committee.
Originally from the Eastern Cape, Mr. Aylward holds a Master’s degree in Criminal Justice, a BTech in Forensic Investigations, a National Diploma in Management (Industrial Relations), and a Diploma in Criminal Justice and Forensic Audit.

He recently completed a Postgraduate Diploma in Labour Law, and is an accomplished marksman, having earned Western Province colours in Practical Pistol Shooting and National SAHGCA colours in Precision Shooting. He holds firearm competency for both private and business use, and is a certified Range Officer.

His passion for aviation led him to obtain a Private Pilot’s Licence (fixed-wing), with certifications on C172, C152, and C150 aircraft, including a night rating. He is also registered with PSIRA at Grade A level.

SANParks Cape Region – Regional General Manager, Mr. Bongani Mnisi, extends his best wishes to Mr. Aylward as he assumes this critical role, expressing confidence that his extensive experience in visitor safety management, crime intelligence, forensic investigations, and security services will significantly strengthen SANParks’ safety capabilities for the benefit of Capetonians and visitors alike.

Meanwhile, in a related development, SANParks has deployed one of its helicopters at Table Mountain National Park (TMNP) as part of heightened safety and security operations for the festive season. This deployment forms part of SANParks’ ongoing Safety and Security Strategy aimed at ensuring a safe environment for the increased number of visitors expected in the Park over this peak period.

The helicopter, part of SANParks’ national fleet, is being utilised to support surveillance and rapid response operations. Its presence acts as a visible deterrent to criminal activity while enhancing the ability of rangers to respond swiftly to incidents, emergencies, and potential threats within the Park.

Aerial support works in close coordination with ground-based ranger teams, including the specialised Sea, Air, and Mountain (SEAM) operators. This integrated approach has proven highly effective during previous high visitor periods such as Christmas, New Year, and Easter, significantly contributing to improved visitor safety, environmental crime prevention, and early detection of illegal activities, including fires.

SANParks urges all park users to enjoy Table Mountain National Park responsibly during the festive season. Visitors are reminded that the Park is open from sunrise to sunset and are encouraged to plan their activities carefully, travel in groups, carry appropriate equipment, and remain aware of changing weather conditions.