The cache is located close to the derelict water filtration ponds downstream from the wall of Shongweni Dam.
The derelict filtration ponds
I remember as a youngster (don't ask) going for picnics with the family at this dam while my dad got on with his fishing. Fishing was particularly good when the dam was just overflowing.
In those days we kids had a ball playing in the tunnel through the dam wall, exploring the bypass tunnel, and watching how murky water became clear water when it reached the end of the filtration beds.
These days the dam has silted up, and Durban's water supply now comes from the four dams in the Mgeni catchment area. (Midmar, Albert Falls, Nagle and Inanda). Consequently the water works here have been abandoned.
At the turn of the century, the dam wall was slightly raised through the provision of 'fusegates'. These are the angled structures that can be seen at the top of the dam wall. They are constructed of steel and are designed to tumble down the downstream face of the dam wall in case of severe flooding. To date this has not happened. In the unlikely event of this happening, once the flood has abated, the fusegates will be lifted back into position.
Shongweni Dam spillway and fusegates
A nominal admission fee is levied to enter the reserve. Picnicking is allowed and braai facilities are provided. Plains game is present in the reserve and can often be sighted. A valid WildCard gets you free entry.