Local volunteers and businesses have joined forces with The Power of 8000 (TPO8000) to restore four neglected entrance signs across White River.

According to Lisa Gordon-Davis of TPO8000, the signs had become weathered, with rusty frames and overgrown surroundings making them look neglected.

When the organisation called for skilled volunteers, Chris Botha, Jaco Jansen van Vuuren, Adolf Crowley, and Andre Vianello stepped forward.

Team tackles four key entrances

The restoration covered four entrance points: the R40 from Nelspruit near Ronnie Bester Park, Nahemi Road near Metropolitan School, the R536 from the Karula Hotel, and Danie Joubert Street near the rugby club.

The work involved stripping the metal frames, treating rust, repainting, and replacing damaged sections. Jansen van Vuuren of A&Z Branding Solutions produced new signboards.The project also uncovered an interesting piece of local history. Behind the old boards, volunteers discovered even older signs bearing the faded words ‘WITRIVIER’ under ‘WHITE RIVER’.

“It offered an unexpected glimpse into how the town once welcomed travellers,” Gordon-Davis said.

Businesses add finishing touches

Breezy Butterfly Mobile Car Wash assisted by pressure-washing the stone plinths at three locations, while TPO8000 applied a stone sealer.

At the rugby club entrance, abandoned concrete culvert pipes were transformed into raised planters. White River Garden Pavilion donated white Iceberg roses and star jasmine, which were planted in the concrete rings. Although plans for additional gardens at two other sites could not proceed due to limited water, the team successfully improved the rugby club entrance.

TPO8000 thanked everyone involved, saying: “Each contribution helped renew these familiar landmarks and create a more welcoming entrance to town.”

Residents and visitors are encouraged to appreciate the restored signs and the community spirit behind the initiative.