Leopards are the most elusive of the world’s big cats, and you would be forgiven for doing a double take if you happen to drive past One&Only Hotel, Cape Town at the glimpse of a leopard gracing the grand entrance. The life-size cat was delivered to the One&Only on Wednesday, 1 August by Dylan Lewis Studio, and the hotel will be its home for next few weeks to promote a gala event being hosted there in support of the Cape Leopard Trust.

The 1.8m bronze sculpture, 'Elevated Leopard II', by Cape Town artist, Dylan Lewis will be auctioned on the night by Stephan Welz & Co and is the last one available from a series of eight. Inspired by the leopard, the gala evening will offer guests a fabulous three-course dinner with a range of superb wines from the Constantia and Franschhoek valley, elegant entertainment and a number of attractive leopards inspired auction lots. Proceeds from the evening will contribute to the Trust’s conservation efforts to ensure the long-term protection of the Cape’s remaining leopards in the wild. Protecting the leopard and the habitats upon which it depends will also safeguard some of the area’s most valuable natural heritage.

The future of all big cats in the wild was recognised by the IUCN on World Wildlife Day in March, and for the first time, big cats and their struggle for survival was in the spotlight. Major threats include human-wildlife conflict, habitat fragmentation and the increasing illegal wildlife trade. August also marks World Lion Day, and it is, therefore, appropriate that the event will not only support the important work being done by the Trust but also raises awareness of the plight of Africa’s big cats. The Cape Trust also celebrates its 14 th anniversary in August.

The gala event is a partnership between One & Only Cape Town, and the Hans Hoheisen Charitable Trust, which is managed by Nedbank Private Wealth.

To book tickets or a table visit: www.curatedforconservation.com.

For general information phone Helen Turnbull on 076 522 1201