Silverton neighbourhood watch marks 10 years through community clean-up
The community group celebrated a decade of safety and unity by organising a large-scale clean-up in Silverton Ext 5, to keep the area clean and safe.
Eyewatch Voeltjiedorp, a neighbourhood watch in Silverton Ext 5 marked its 10th anniversary with a community clean-up.
The initiative was launched after members noticed that overgrown grass had begun obstructing visibility at street-corners, raising safety concerns for motorists and pedestrians.
The community cut the long grass, unblocked stormwater drains and beautified the area.
Founding member of Eyewatch Voeltjiedorp and Deputy chair of the Silverton Sector 3 Community Policing Sub-Forum (CPSF), Juan Lee Olivier, said a call for assistance was sent out to the community, and the response exceeded expectations.
She said between 35–40 residents turned up to lend a hand, working together to clear the area and restore visibility.
A local church supported the initiative by providing equipment and lunch, while FADT Security joined the effort.
“It was incredible to see so many people come together for a common purpose. This clean-up reflects exactly what community safety is about: people taking ownership of their environment and working together to prevent crime before it happens,” she explained.
Olivier said the clean-up not only improved the area’s appearance but also highlighted how far the neighbourhood watch has come over the past decade.
Founded a decade ago with just four members, Eyewatch Voeltjiedorp has grown into a strong network of 731 community members.
“Through consistent patrols, open communication and collaboration, neighbours have built trust and transformed the area into a close-knit community where residents actively look out for one another,” Olivier added.
She said over the years, the group has faced numerous challenges.
“Crime, while never extreme, has included incidents ranging from theft to emergencies, such as gas leaks in homes with children inside.”
She said members responded swiftly in these moments, prioritising safety and protecting lives. The group also worked collectively to address serious issues in the area, including the successful removal of two brothels.
According to Olivier, crime remains a challenge, particularly cable theft, but residents say the overall crime rate in the area remains relatively low compared to many surrounding communities.
She said over the past two years, two dedicated patrollers, Micheal Hoffmann and Johan de Bruin, passed away, leaving a significant gap in the team.
“The loss of Micheal and Johan was devastating for the entire community,” Olivier said.
“Their dedication and commitment will never be forgotten. What makes this community special is that even in moments of grief, people stepped up to ensure their legacy of service continues.”
According to Olivier, two new patrollers have taken on the responsibility, ensuring the work of the neighbourhood watch carries on.
Olivier said looking back, the greatest achievement of the past decade is not only overcoming challenges, but building a strong sense of unity and pride.
“This clean-up is a reminder of what we can achieve together. Eyewatch Voeltjiedorp has become more than a neighbourhood watch; it is a family that proves community spirit is the strongest tool we have to keep our areas safe.”
She said as Eyewatch Voeltjiedorp enters its next decade, residents say they remain committed to protecting their neighbourhood and strengthening the bonds that have defined the community for the past 10 years.
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