A good number of locals filled the Shelly Methodist Church hall recently, around beautifully decorated tables, for Stonecroft’s monthly meeting, where the talk was on Tidy Towns. From the moment Stephen Herbst took to the mic, you could feel the pride he had in the achievement locals are accomplishing.
Borne from a mere idea and an attitude to try, a group of locals gathered to brainstorm and set what has turned out to be so much more than they could ever imagine into motion.
“To those brave and hard working souls, we owe our gratitude,” said Vanessa Howard-Tripp.
Stephen shared how Andrew Gumede was one of the many unofficial car guards working the beach carparks and peddling drugs.
His invitation to assist Tidy Towns was initially met with contempt. He wasn’t going to pick up after others.
By the grace of God, one man never gave up on him, despite his rude behavior some days.
His persistent nagging at Andrew drew him into a life he can only describe as a game-changer. From drunk, to car guard, to tour guide.
In his words, ‘Tidy Towns doesn’t only change our beaches and environment, it changes lives’.
“We at Stonecroft believe that sums it up,” said Vanessa.
Now, Andrew says, his son is happy to call him Dad and his wife wants to stay. Thank you Tidy Towns.
Without the support of the community and business, none of the amazing process and achievements could have been the success they are.
Tidy Town fever is sweeping across the coast and country, driven by tourists noticing and holidaymakers seeing the difference in a cleaner and tidier South Coast.
Jo-Ellen Hannaway spoke of how her trust in God had lead her to approach the community on behalf of Tidy Towns, which had resulted in support that was beyond expectations.
”God said, through Him, all things are possible,” she said.
She has held onto that promise. “We, living in this piece of paradise and have certainly seen the change and upliftment on our coast.”
“Understanding that tourism is the heart of our economy on the coast and that we all can engage with Tidy Towns to transform this place called home, will save our community and make it attractive for others to holiday and invest in.”
This was a wonderful message for all those who attended a bumper Stonecroft morning tea.
On a sad note, Loretta Joffee has resigned from the committee after 10 years of service. “She served us so well and we will miss her input,” said Vanessa.
The next morning tea will be on Friday, November 17 at 09:30. To book, contact Vanessa on 082 8181449.
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