IN memory of the late Pinetown SAPS station commander, Brigadier Leon Matthysen, the Creative Canvas team joined hands with the station’s officials and carried out his vision to repaint the trauma room to make it more “warm”, comfortable and child-friendly.

Whilst busying with painting the room on Saturday, October 4, Creative Canvas art teacher Maritza Diedericks said they decided to volunteer with her two students, Tyla Bester and Michelle Bezuidenhout, to revamp the room so it can give hope to vulnerable children.

“I’m just passionate about the safety of children and protecting them, so this safe room is for them to know that someone is there to take care of them when they are vulnerable, and give them hope,” said Diedericks.

Chief administrative clerk at the station, Lou-Ann Fayers, said the late Matthysen had the vision of redecorating the room, so putting that into action was done in his memory.

“He had seen my artwork whenever I would post it on Facebook, then he approached me about the renovations,” explained Fayers, who said a mural in the late brigadier’s memory will be completed.

Fayers thanked the sponsors who made the redecoration possible, including  Bev Tucker from the local community policing forum (CPF) who donated curtains, toys and flowers to spruce up the room.

Pinetown SAPS communications officer Jennifer Naidu said the trauma room has long served as a critical space for victims of domestic violence and vulnerable children.

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“While the room has always provided essential facilities, the station team is now taking steps to brighten, enhance, and transform it into an even more welcoming and comforting space for those who need it most. During Station Crime Combating Forum meetings, the team, including myself, regularly reviewed evaluations and suggestions from the station’s suggestion box, highlighting ways to better support victims. Every day we hear about women being harmed and vulnerable children in crisis. Often, they have nowhere to turn. We wanted our station to be a place of security and hope,” said Naidu.

Naidu tipped a hat to Fayers for contributing to the revamp.

“Without Lou-Ann taking part in the art class and sharing her expertise during our SCCF meetings, this outcome would not have been possible. Her involvement helped shape the room into what it is today, and she continues to contribute, working on enhancing the ceilings and adding more features to the space,” said Naidu.

The vibrant artwork on walls and doors, depicting police officers, children, and uplifting imagery, have completely revamped the room, creating a space that feels safe, welcoming, and comforting, added Naidu.

Naidu said Tucker also provides support for the trauma room by volunteering every Friday to maintain the room and ensure that the station remains a welcoming space.

“Our goal is for the station to be more than a place where criminals are locked up. We want it to be a space where vulnerable members of the community feel supported and know help is available. By the end of this project, visitors will have contact numbers and guidance for the steps they can take when facing difficult situations. This initiative also stands as a tribute to Brigadier LJ Matthysen. What he started and envisioned for this station is not left unfinished. The transformation of the trauma room and the focus on supporting vulnerable members of our community is a living memory of his dedication. I’m sure he is looking down at us, proud to see his vision coming to life,” said Naidu.

Naidu also urged the community to continue submitting evaluations and suggestions.

@caxtonlocalmedia A room of hope, rebuilt in memory of Brigadier Leon Matthysen 💛 The Creative Canvas team and Pinetown SAPS joined hands to transform the trauma room — making it brighter, warmer, and more comforting for vulnerable children. 🫶 This is more than paint on walls — it’s love, care, and a promise of safety. 🎨💙 #Highwaymail #PinetownSAPS #CreativeCanvas #CommunityHope #ActsOfKindness ♬ original sound – caxtonlocalmedia

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