Zoo Lake User Committee rallies the community to restore Zoo Lake in massive cleanup effort

In a powerful display of community spirit, Zoo Lake came alive on the weekend of October 19 and 20, as volunteers gathered for one of the largest cleanups the park has ever seen. Organised by the Zoo Lake User Committee, this marked the ninth cleanup in just 14 months – a testament to the ongoing effort to restore and maintain one of Johannesburg’s most beloved green spaces.

Read more: Zoo Lake clean-up campaign rescheduled for October 19-20

Stuart Norman, a dedicated Parkview resident and director of the Zoo Lake User Committee, has been at the forefront of these initiatives. “Zoo Lake is a top-class park and requires top-class support from the city,” he said, highlighting the city’s struggle to keep up with the park’s maintenance. With roughly 3 000 visitors every week, especially on weekends, the importance of preserving this park cannot be overstated.

What made this cleanup exceptional was the sheer scale of participation. Over 85 volunteers, including residents, organisations, and businesses, came together to collect a staggering 12 cubic metres of rubbish, filling 236 large bags and creating 31 day jobs. Waste management partners, including [dot]GOOD and Fibre Circle, played a crucial role, in ensuring the event’s success.

The cleanup was originally scheduled for World Clean Up Day in September but was postponed due to bad weather. Despite the delay, the outcome was nothing short of spectacular. R24 000 was raised, ensuring that two more major cleanups can be planned for the future.

Ward 87 councillor Kyle Jacobs also rolled up his sleeves to participate. “Zoo Lake is one of our amazing green spaces in the middle of the concrete jungle we call Johannesburg,” Jacobs said. “It’s a place for family, friends, and colleagues to gather and enjoy nature. The work done by the Zoo Lake User Committee and Parkview Residents Association is essential in preserving its beauty.”

Also read: Joburg zoo hosts thrilling finale of Rangers Coding Competition

Jacobs stressed the environmental challenges Zoo Lake faces, from littering to pollution in the lake. He emphasised that partnerships between residents, businesses, and local organisations are key to maintaining such public spaces. These collaborations, he noted, “are vital to ensuring the success of projects like this.”

For those who couldn’t participate in the cleanup, Jacobs had a clear message: “It’s never too late to get involved.” He encouraged residents to contribute through donations or volunteering their time, underlining the role of well-maintained public spaces in uplifting the surrounding community.

The success of the Zoo Lake cleanup is a shining example of what can be achieved when a community rallies together. With more events on the horizon and continued support from local businesses like The Perfect Cup, Tyrone Fruiterers and Spar, and CAP Green Team, Zoo Lake is on track to remain a cherished green haven for all.

The work doesn’t end here. As Jacobs put it, “Every movement starts with a small group of committed people who want to make a difference.” The hope is that this collective effort will inspire other communities to take charge of their public spaces, ensuring that Johannesburg’s parks remain clean, safe, and accessible for generations to come.

Follow us on our Facebook, X, Instagram and TikTok pages. Join our WhatsApp group for any story ideas you may have.

Related article: Call to join Friends of Zoo Lake and Fibre Circle in Zoo Lake cleanup campaign