VOLUNTEERS from the Friends of Dawncliffe Park’s section of Westville Conservancy have been working in Portman Park in the Dawncliffe area of Westville since June 2021, with the aim of transforming and rehabilitating the park. Previously, the park was mown extensively and Invasive Alien Plants were out of control, but now the natural grassland, wetland and riverine forest areas have been allowed to flourish, and the park offers a walking trail, plus a shady picnic area, and it has become a place for families, nature lovers and dog walkers to enjoy.

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Along with Sue Smith of the Conservancy, the Highway Mail went for a walk around the park which is situated between Portman Avenue, Carlton Avenue and Chiral Drive. Smith said that exciting things are happening in the park! A bridge has been built over the stream, connecting the main path with the riverine loop. The bridge was designed and built by Desmond Hayes with assistance from Lovemore Brothers and Protas Xaba.

“A few weeks ago, we received a call from Poles Galore to say they were tidying up their yard and had some poles that were suitable for fencing, but they were a bit uneven and of varying lengths, and would we like them – no charge! We said, ‘Yes, please!’ So Desmond has been keeping himself busy building a rustic fence along Chiral Drive,” Smith said.

“The ground was quite uneven and rocky in places, which made putting in the upright poles rather challenging. But this all adds to the ‘rustic’ look! We have a short section to finish along Chiral Drive, and then Carlton will be next. Desmond, assisted by Alistair Nicholl, Protas and Mandla, also built a boardwalk where the path skirts the wetland area, so walkers and their dogs will be able to complete the entire path without getting their feet, or paws wet!” she said.

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Smith said that the Conservancy is very excited to see that more and more people from the community are using the park. “We are happy to see them, and we encourage more people to visit the park and enjoy a quiet time in nature. A visit at the end of last year by the ethekwini Bird Club produced a list of 48 birds, so there is always lots to see.”

All the work done in the park is made possible by donations and volunteers from members of the community, and if you’d like to contribute towards the rehabilitation of our Westville Parks, any donations would be greatly appreciated.

Bank: Westville Conservancy

Branch: 138026, Westville Mall

Account Number: 1380 078 083

If you would like to volunteer or would like more information please email info@westvilleconservancy.co.za.

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