18-07-2025
Umgeni Park koi keeper ready to share passion
GERARD Loumeau hopes to bring more awareness and share his knowledge about keeping koi at the Absolute Asphalt KZN Koi Show at the Shongweni Club this weekend.
Loumeau, who has more than 50 colour variants of the fish in two large ponds at his home, has been keeping koi for more than 25 years.
Koi is a name for the coloured variants of carp, also referred to as nishikigoi in Japan, which is translated as 'swimming jewel'.
The Umgeni Park resident said the annual koi show offers the opportunity for aspiring and novice koi keepers, as well as the general public, to gain knowledge about the hobby.
Also read: Steam tugs, sea tales and shipwrecks: Explore Durban's nautical heritage
'Through my journey I've learnt about providing the best environment for the koi to grow. What we have seen in years gone by is that there are more people keeping koi nowadays, which is always great. Our collective hope, of course, is also for them to join our society. That was one of the ways I've gained knowledge on these beautiful fish and how to look after them,' he said.
Loumeau, the chairman of the KZN Koi Keepers Society, a chapter of the SA Koi Keepers Society, also spoke on why the show is important.
'One of the best things about being involved in this annual event is sharing our know-how and rubbing shoulders with other people who have a similar passion. Some of the top koi aficionados will be attending the premier event – showcasing their best show koi. The event is really about offering the general public an opportunity to speak to and learn from koi dealers, experts and keepers from across the province, who will be able to offer advice and assistance to anyone interested in this fascinating hobby. We really hope Durbanites come out and support us in their numbers. Come and experience the magic of koi,' he said.
The event takes place at the Shongweni Club on Saturday, July 19 (08:00 to 17:00), and Sunday, July 20 (09:00 to 15:00). The entrance fee is R30. Children U12 pay R10 and entry is free for U6.
For more from Northglen News, follow us on Facebook , X or Instagram. You can also check out our videos on our YouTube channel or follow us on TikTok.
Click to subscribe to our newsletter – here
