CELEBRATING HERITAGE THROUGH ENGINEERING

Part 2 of a two-part series.

Adds Roth, “Placing the SAICE plaque proved difficult as the dock is exposed to heavy impact loads from moving ships and is also a tourist attraction of the Victoria & Alfred Waterfront. A flat vertical area for the aluminium plaque to be mounted was selected on the stone walling, just outside of the dock gate, and the plaque is now visible to the many tourists visiting the Waterfront, drawing attention to the accomplishments of civil engineering over the years.”

Roth is a prominent figure in the civil engineering community, with a background that includes extensive experience in engineering practice and education. His expertise contributes to the panel’s mission of preserving and promoting the heritage of civil engineering in the country.

His leadership role at SAICE involves overseeing initiatives that recognise and celebrate significant civil engineering achievements in South Africa, particularly those that have historical importance. Under Roth’s guidance, the SAICE History and Heritage Panel evaluates projects that have made substantial contributions to community welfare and economic development, fostering a greater appreciation for the role of civil engineers in shaping South Africa’s infrastructure.

Since its inception in 2006, the SAICE History and Heritage Panel has recognised several significant projects. The first award was given to the Van Stadens Weir and Dam outside Gqeberha (Port Elizabeth), a major water supply project completed in the late 19th century. This recognition was part of a broader effort to document and celebrate the engineering feats that have shaped South Africa’s infrastructure and landscape.

The aim of this recognition is to promote civil engineering achievements, and to encourage preservation of these historic projects. In addition to recognising landmarks, the panel invites SAICE members to nominate other historic engineering works for consideration. This ongoing initiative fosters a culture of appreciation for the historical contributions of civil engineering to society and encourages the preservation of such historic projects for future generations.