KEEP Hillcrest Beautiful Association (KHBA) is a non-profit organisation (NPO) striving to maintain the natural beauty and tidiness of the Hillcrest area.
According to Marge Mitchell, a current committee member, the organisation was constituted in 2006, after she wrote a letter to the Highway Mail appealing to residents who shared her passion for retaining Hillcrest’s beauty.
Five people responded to her email and they formed the core committee. Four of those members are still on the committee, said Mitchell.
Committee member Dawn Brown said one of the simplest projects that people can get involved with is the Recycling Depot project, which encourages residents to recycle various items such as paper, plastic, polystyrene, cardboard, Tetrapak, cans and glass. Recycled items can be dropped of at Delamore Road.
The KHBA is also highly involved in the removal of illegal signs and posters.
“It is a controversial subject, but we have a contract with eThekweni to remove illegal signs and posters. It plays a huge role in keeping the community neat,” said Brown.
Another project that KHBA has been involved with, in conjunction with Hillcrest Conservancy and Camelot Conservancy, is the Monthly Rail Reserve Walk at the Station Masters Arms, in Hillcrest.
Residents are invited to walk the trail on the first Sunday of every month at 9am. On the walk they will be treated to beautiful views of the Springside nature reserve, while plant expert Wilbur Mahlamvu provides education and information on the plants encountered on the walk.
“The walk provides residents with companionship and safety while walking their dogs, cycling their bikes, jogging or simply taking a leisurely stroll,” said Jooste.
The organisation is earnestly looking for new committee members. Volunteers and donations are also welcomed and appreciated.
Contact Marge Mitchell on 083 419 3807, Jean Jooste on 082 895 0540 or Dawn Brown on 084 307 7404.
