Community steps up to care for park
As a volunteer organisation the Lawn Rangers are comprised of roughly 70 community members wanting to make a difference.
To keep their neighbourhood neat and looking good, Hurlyvale residents have taken it upon themselves to maintain the Hurlyvale Park.
The group known as the Hurlyvale Lawn Rangers was founded in February 2019 by two neighbours, Noel Brownlee and Steve Hasselbach.
Noel said after discussions, he and Steve started cutting strips of lawn in the park near their homes.
As time went on the pair expanded the work they were doing until it covered most of the park, which is roughly 40 000 square metres.
Besides maintaining the park, one of the objectives was to make the area look better.
“Driving home shouldn’t be seen as a chore but rather a journey and we want community members to feel happy and proud when they drive through the park to their homes.”
As a volunteer organisation the Lawn Rangers are comprised of roughly 70 community members wanting to make a difference.
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The group makes use of ride-on lawnmowers, weed eaters, chainsaws and a push mower for the edges of the park.
Noel said that although the rangers fully support Hurlyvale East and Buurendal Residents Association (HEBRA) they are not part of the association.
“When the hard lockdown started we couldn’t cut the grass but when we were allowed for those three hours in the morning we jumped at the opportunity to maintain the park.
“The Saturday after we had mowed the park, there were probably over 100 community members enjoying themselves in the park.
“Noel highlighted that the three pillars that the group is founded on include:
- Being a volunteer organisation funded by donations.
- Supporting HEBRA fully despite not being a HEBRA structure.
- Working in partnership with the City of Ekurhuleni and councillors.
“We often get asked by community members why we are cutting the grass when we pay rates and taxes and it’s the municipality’s responsibility.
“My thinking behind it is instead of complaining about the situation why not come up with a solution and do something to make a difference.
“Instead of complaining, help us find a solution, get involved and give us an hour of your time and help us make a difference.”
Noel highlighted by working with members of the community the group was able to tap into the expertise of the community.
He said some community members know how to service the ride-on mowers, which assists the group greatly.
“Our community is so resourceful, we always find a way.
“The group members have been able to get to know their neighbours and fellow community members, there is a lot of camaraderie.”
As the group is growing it is hoping to purchase a third ride-on mower which will cost R50 000.
To get involved in the group or make a donation, email noelbb@mweb.co.za
