The Cape south coast ichnology project has led to the identification of 326 Pleistocene vertebrate ichnosites along 350 kilometres of coastline. In synthesizing this data, four questions are addressed: what is the global relevance of the Cape south coast ichnosites, how can these studies complement the vertebrate body fossil record, how can they contribute to the understanding of Pleistocene palaeoenvironments and palaeocology, and how can they contribute to palaeoanthropology? Systematic site descriptions are accompanied by three databases: ichnosites, photographs, and photogrammetry.”
He commented: “I am grateful to my wonderful supervising committee (Jan De Vynck, Hayley Cawthra, Martin Lockley and Jan Venter) for their advice and encouragement, and to Richard Cowling and Curtis Marean for planting the seed of the idea of tackling a PhD as a 'mature student' when well into my 60s. I appreciate the support of my Head of Department at NMU, Anton De Wit, and of my wife Linda and kids Daniel and Carina. Retiring from my medical practice a few years early in order to devote myself to palaeontology and pursue a PhD has turned out to be one of the best decisions I ever made.”
Dr Helm, Many congratulations on your success. You have inspired all of us not only to dream but also to work hard to achieve them. You left no “fossil” unturned and we are extremely proud! Congratulations on earning your PhD!