In celebration of their 40th anniversary as Alphen Park residents, Joyce and Derek Dingwall gifted their neighbours with an exclusive 2024 calendar containing exquisite sunrises captured from their back garden.
Armed with their camera, the couple sat on their patio overlooking Homestead Dam, looking to the east to bear witness to the beginning of another day filled with endless possibilities.
With the help of fellow Alphen Park resident, Linda Williams, 12 of the most breath-taking images pictured by the Dingwall’s were selected to form part of the gift.
Laughing, Joyce said that when a flamboyance of flamingo swooped into the waters during the cold winter months, she snuck behind a nearby weeping willow to snap a photograph.
“They were so skittish, I had to do my upmost best to blend in amongst the hanging branches to take a photo that would truly encapsulate their beauty,” said Joyce.
“It was quite an adventure.”
Using George’s Bakery in Mercury Street as a central distribution point for Alphen Park residents to get their hands on their copy, Derek was met by appreciative neighbours, who not only collected their gifts but opted to make a donation to the Homestead Conservancy as a token of gratitude.
“I was astonished that R7 000 worth of donations were deposited into the conservancy’s account,” said Derek.
“I am a member of the committee, who has worked tirelessly to rid the dam of hyacinth and all monies are used to ensure that the fast growing invasive plants are eradicated thus ensuring the biodiversity of our splendid dam, which for four decades have given us great joy.”
Prompted by members of the community, Derek has now printed 100 copies of the calendar which are available for purchase.
At a cost of R100, all of which will go towards the conservancy, Benonians now have the opportunity to view the splendour of Homestead Dam as seen from the Dingwall’s property.
For more information or to secure your copy contact Derek on 083 601 0654.
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