Well done, selfless souls, on preserving Toti’s heritage

EDITOR – It’s quite amazing what a group of committed, selfless souls can achieve in a relatively short period of time.

Given the progress made by our Army Saints in their Toti River restoration project, it seems nothing is impossible.

Thanks are also due to a number of sponsors, both private and business, for their ongoing support. And, at the risk of sounding chauvinistic, I have to pay tribute to our womenfolk. There they are toe-to-toe, gumboot-to-gumboot in the murky water, working like Trojans, gals fully the equal of the guys. Quite an inspiration. Gentlemen, drink a toast.

The river adjacent the sportsfields is now largely clear, with tons of hyacinth removed, not to mention all sorts of junk and garbage. How pleasing it is to see large stretches of water again and a variety of waterbirds, large and small, reappearing, virtually overnight. Next Sunday brings an interesting challenge – the removal of a large, dead tree now blocking the river from bank to bank. A kind sponsor is loaning chainsaws. Braai wood, anyone?

Thanks are also due to many passers-by for their words of encouragement. To those with more quizzical looks, no, we don’t think we’re mad, but if so, who would have thought insanity could be such fun.

I think the message is best described in the words of our very own sage, Gerry van Rooyen. I quote, with his permission: “What can we do on weekends? Life is so boring. It costs such a lot to go out. Well the Army Saints have the answer and it is free. You will enjoy the company of the most wonderful people from Amanzimtoti and surrounds. You will get the best exercise available. You will join in all the fun. You will enjoy the beauty of the scenery and mostly the satisfaction of participating in this exemplary effort to regain our heritage. You will also have the satisfaction of knowing that the children of today will have you to remember and thank for reclaiming and preserving their heritage.”