Nico Rose recalled a time 40 years ago, when he operated his health services office from a tiny office now in the vicinity of the taxi rank.
The municipal veteran was talking at his farewell, held at the Miner’s Rest last Wednesday, and attended by some of his close colleagues and friends.
“In those days it took municipal workers two days to dig a six-foot grave. Now machinery is used. And no wonder: Thirty to 40 years ago the municipality was preparing about 12 graves a month – now the figure is around 60.”
Originally from the Cape, Nico settled in Dundee when he was placed here by the then State Health Department. Later, he joined the then Dundee Municipality, and has been a constant source of calmness and dedication ever since.
He pioneered Endumeni’s two triumphs in the KZN Greenest Town competition, and encouraged others to ensure that the municipal area ‘stays green’.
Chatting to his fellow workers at his farewell, Nico reminded them that ‘service delivery is paramount’, and wished them well.
Now a proud granddad of twin daughters, Nico plans to stay in Dundee – a town which he loves and one that he says has been good to him and his family.