The Friends of Sandspruit community group hosted a clean-up at the Ernest Ullmann recreation centre in the spirit of Mandela Day.
The group was started to help aid the conservation of the park and keep it clean. Alex Parkins, the chairperson for the Friends of Sandspruit, said they hosted an event-filled morning to help clean up the park and river. The group has previously been featured in Sandton Chronicle in Birdlife returns to clean park [week ending 18 January].
Parkins said, “We have been involved in protecting and maintaining the Sandspruit greenbelt for almost 10 years for the benefit of the community and for those who will come after us. “
Members of the First Morningside Scouts, several members of the regular parkrun held at the park, and members of the local community got involved. A range of activities were available for children including a jumping castle while the Scouts and some parents helped build some owl boxes to be installed in the park.
Parkins added, “For those more adventurous, O-Ventures and the Scouts put together an orienteering course around the park giving everyone an opportunity to explore the twists and turns of the river and surrounding area.”
Friends of Sandspruit also employs a small team to assist in maintaining and conserving the Sandspruit river and pathways between South Road bridge and the northern end of Ernest Ullmann Park. This includes removing alien vegetation, planting indigenous flora, and maintaining pathways to aid in safe and secure community enjoyment.
“With the community we are conserving our river and park together,” concluded Parkins.
Those who would like to sponsor an owl box or purchase one for their own garden can contact Friends of Sandspruit on info@sandspruit.org
Share your thoughts on the cleanup on the Sandton Chronicle Facebook page
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