In 1951 Knysna was one of South Africa’s favourite sleepy little villages. Now, seventy years later, it is home to more than 75 000 people – and their animals. While much has changed over time, the spirit of this special place has stayed the same. And so, while COVID-19 may be ravaging our town, the Knysna Animal Welfare Society continues to do the vital work of nursing, feeding, sheltering and caring for the voiceless. In this special year, we thank all the people whose love of animals has kept KAWS going through these 70 years, and who have been part of our journey.