Wine offered as incentive for residents to roll up their sleeves for a clean Douglasdale
Saskia Kunneke's idea to get people to clean up the entrance into Douglasdale in exchange of a box of wine has worked like a charm, and she is now planning more initiatives to continue the community work.
When Saskia Kunneke offered a box of wine to anyone willing to cut the overgrown grass on Crawford Drive, she had no idea that within the hour, Ryan Harvey and Malusi Ncube would brave the scorching heat and roll up their sleeves to tidy up the area.
Kunneke said, what inspired her to offer the box of wine in exchange for cutting the grass, was the fact that we all love to have a bit of fun.
“I thought the Greenpark community would appreciate a little bartering. Not that anyone needs to be coerced to help, Greenparkers are always keen to lend a hand in and around our hood, case in point, it just seemed like a fun idea at the time, and that grass really needed a trim.”
Also read: Residents struggle with ongoing water leaks in Greenpark
She said, what motivates people to get involved in such tasks is their collective appreciation for where they live, what they have, and a concern for its upkeep.
“Maybe that, mixed with a bit of complaint fatigue. We all just realize we can sort this stuff out ourselves, most of the time, and we do. Plus, we all have lawnmowers. It also helps if there’s a resident or two who brings these things to people’s attention, and bugs them a bit to help, or bribes them with wine.”
Kunneke said that this corner, in particular, is always passed over when it comes to grass cutting. She has no idea why, since Crawford and Douglas drives serve as one of the main entrances into Douglasdale, and shabby curbs, and long grass hiding trash, make the area look dodge.
“We also clubbed together to repaint that corner wall and install a new Douglasdale sign, as well as working on the little garden there. It’s so much nicer when driving past the corner now. I think people notice.
“I think communities need to think out of the box when it comes to addressing local issues. Council isn’t always there when you need them. We can complain and lodge the stuff and wait, or mobilize and get it done. Most of these types of projects are not huge work or hassle for locals. Of course, we’re thankful for social media these days, where all the good work can be shared to help inspire others.”
Kunneke says that there are so many great plans to keep such initiatives going, and to expand and improve all along Douglas Drive, to join the Douglas and Leslie garden.
“If Douglasdale residents can commit to supporting the Douglasdale Business and Residents Forum, for instance, they would see constant upkeep around the area, and gardens aplenty, if we could assist with the funding and volunteering. I’d also recommend joining the local Facebook pages, keeping an eye on what’s happening around you, and getting involved. You’ll love it, and you’ll see the fruits of your labour, donations, and support.”
Follow us on our Facebook, X, Instagram and TikTok pages. Join our WhatsApp group for any story ideas you may have.
Related article: Open excavation a major concern for Fourways residents
