Looking for a ghoulishly delightful family outing this Halloween (October 31)? Look no further than Trick or Treat on Russel Street in the beautifully historic suburb of Western Extension.The Halloween event is a must for history buffs and anyone else eager to mooch around streets filled with interesting pasts.

The suburb was established in 1911 and withstood intense urban warfare during the 1922 Rand Rebellion, known as the Red Revolt.

In March of that year, an armed uprising of white gold miners erupted across the Witwatersrand, resulting in armed striker commandos seizing control of major East Rand towns, including Benoni, effectively trapping state forces.

Due to proximity to the Dunswart Iron and Steel Works and the railway line, it became a strategic battleground, as strikers anticipated that the Union Government would send military reinforcements from Johannesburg via the railway line to relieve the besieged Benoni Police Barracks.

Armed revolutionary forces heavily fortified Western Extension resulting in bloody battle.

With its heritage buildings, surrounded by towering Jacaranda and Oak trees, calm was soon restored and the suburb became home to generations of families and small business.

“As the city continued expanding, many families moved on to more modern suburbs with business soon following suit, but Western Extension has not lost its lure nor its days of yore appeal,” said Ivonne Taylor, one of the organising members behind this year’s “spook-tacular” Halloween walk.

“The aim of the walk is not only to host an event that promises to thrill little ones, teens and adults, in an area that perfectly lends itself to lore of haunted house and eerie encounters. We want to showcase our beloved suburb, its beauty and rich history.”

As a resident of the area for more than four decades, the former owner of Lemon Grass Restaurant said it is heartening to witness a resurgence throughout Western Extension, with homes being renovated to their former glory and business again rooting themselves in the history.

“Despite its 115 year history, the area has a sense of elegance with a hint of mystery which we will draw on as we welcome participants to creep through our streets participating in an exciting event,” she said.

Entry to the walk is free, but donations towards the Benoni SPCA as well as The Murphy Cat Project (TMCP) are welcome.

The scare-fest will take place from 14:00 to 17:00 culminating in a best dressed competition, hosted at Big G’s Quarter Deck.

Trick or Treat stalls hosted by residents as well as business include The Place, Pam Golding, Hammond Pole Attorneys and Rizi’s Creations is guaranteed to be brimming with wickedly sweet treats.

Flap over to the veld in Elston Avenue to register, then head over and gnash your teeth at The Place on Victoria Avenue for the start of the zombie stroll.

For more information, contact Ivonne Taylor on 083 284 4777.

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