Rockymead Heritage Park in full bloom

The Rockymead Heritage Park was donated by Anglo American properties in 1984 after a petition was signed by 12 Rutherford Road neighbours to save the 13 different species of indigenous trees that were found on the outcrop.

Jose Clara, who is involved with the upkeep of the park said, “The idea was to have the area as a natural park as well as to act as a noise buffer for the K60.”

Several Stone Age artefacts have been found in the park, and it is believed that the outcrop was used by ancient humans because of a nearby fountain which can still be seen today.

Clara said with the help of community members and City Parks the area had been cleaned up and benches, a bird bath and information panels about the indigenous trees and Stone Age tools have been installed.

He enthused, “I think that Rockymead Park is a an enhancement for Rutherford Rd and Sunninghill as it provides a natural green lung in the middle of the urban jungle, and provides a space where children can learn about indigenous flora as well as the first occupants of the land. I am extremely pleased with the trees in full bloom now, in particular the white flowers of the wild pear (dombeya rotundifolia).”