Sculpture to commemorate Knysna fires erected

In commemoration of the June 2017 Knysna fires, new mayor Mark Willemse unveiled a sculpture in front of the municipal finance building in Queen Street on June 7, Knysna Plett Herald reports.

The ceremony was aimed at honouring and paying tribute to all those who offered their assistance during and after the fire that raged through Greater Knysna a year ago.

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During his address, Willemse said:, “It is with a heavy heart that I join you on this very solemn occasion. Today the entire Greater Knysna and the Garden Route grieves with every family of those who lost their lives through the horrific fires of 7 June.

“Though we can never erase their pain, or bring back those they lost, we can honour them by pledging our resolve to do whatever we must to keep our people safe from the scourge of bushfires,” the mayor said.

“Today we are here to unveil a commemoration statue. A statue that will remain to remind us all of what we endured and what we overcame. Memorials help to heal wounds inflicted upon people. And also to induce individuals to reflect on what they are capable in times of need,” Willemse said.

Municipal office bearers, including Knsyna mayor Mark Willemse, surrounded by Working on Fire crew members and a municipal fire team at the unveiling ceremony. Photos: Supplied

The mayor, assisted by councillors, a Working on Fire team, Knysna municipal fire, law enforcement and traffic department unveiled the sculpture.

The locally designed piece that depicts last year’s fires and the rebuilding of the town, was supplied through a collaboration of Rodney Nel Management Services, Mosaic Village & Outdoor Market and Glass Roots. A unique statue depicting the Knysna Fires 2017 and the rebuilding of Knysna.

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