The Green Point Ratepayers’ and Residents’ Association (GPRRA) is leading the effort to improve the garden at the Colin Eglin Library at Sea Point.
The GPRRA, through its SafeStreet Collective gardeners, works in the library’s garden twice a week.
“We have been working on this garden for about three months now and there is still work to be done. Indigenous plants that grow in other gardens in Green Point are being planted here. Trevor Laughton has also donated equipment and a hosepipe so that the plants can be watered regularly,” said Liz Knight, the co-chair of the GPRRA.
Mr Laughton of Laughton’s Hardware said they provide the library with paint and gardening tools as needed.
“Any future challenges the library has, they know we are willing to assist and we are involved right now as we donated a hosepipe and we have offered to help with the removal of tyres and to spruce up this garden,” said Mr Laughton.
Riedoewaan Galant, the manager of SafeStreet Collective, says the gardeners enjoy working in the library because the staff are teaching them basic computer skills.
“The garden looks much better and we look forward to planting grass so that kids can play here when they visit during the day. We want to remove the tyres and hopefully we will get the grass next month so we can start the planting process,” said Mr Galant.
Catherine Moon, the library’s senior librarian, adds that they have received support from the GPRRA and Laughton’s and are pleased with how the garden makeover is proceeding.
“The gardeners have planted indigenous, water wise plants and it’s looking beautiful already. Our regular patrons have commented on how it looks so we are pleased with what they have done and with the support from the ratepayers and Trevor,” said Ms Moon.
Ward 54 councillor Nicola Jowell applauded Ms Knight and the gardeners for their contributions to the community.
“I know that Liz is the driving force behind these initiatives so thank you for doing this, I wish we had more of you. To the team working in the garden, the City is thankful for what you are doing, this garden is looking fantastic and Trevor your contribution is appreciated. You are all making a positive impact on the community whether it’s with a small effort or a big effort, it doesn’t go unnoticed,” said Ms Jowell.
