Bendigo Conservancy calls for collective action to protect local environment
Community members are encouraged to join a WorkParty Wednesday, where participants receive free training identifying and managing problem plants.
Environmental health, cleanliness and community involvement are increasingly being recognised as vital to the wellbeing of South Africa’s towns – and this growing awareness is being echoed locally through the work of the Bendigo Conservancy.
Following the recent release of a video highlighting the Top 10 cleanest small towns in South Africa, Bendigo Conservancy chairperson Joan Gallagher said the recognition of environmental stewardship as a cornerstone of neat, healthy communities was encouraging and timely.
“At Bendigo, our work is motivated not only by preservation and conservation, but by the desire to maintain a well-managed site of excellence that showcases the beauty and potential of our unique area,” she said.
Significant progress has been made through the efforts of a hands-on committee, the dedication of Mbekezele Ngcobo, and the support of students during invasive alien plant (IAP) clearing days. The conservancy has also embraced the rebranding of AIP to IAP – highlighting that it is the invasive nature of these plants, rather than their non-indigenous status alone, that poses the greatest threat to local ecosystems.
Community members are encouraged to get involved by attending even one WorkParty Wednesday, where participants receive free training from Mbeke on identifying and managing problem plants – skills that can also be applied at home.
“The more people who participate, the greater the impact for the whole area. A collective effort really does make a difference,” Gallagher said.
Another way to support the conservancy is by becoming a member. The membership year runs from January, with fees intentionally kept low to ensure accessibility. The organisation has also officially changed its name to Bendigo Conservancy, in line with its constitution and formal NGO registration. Updated bank account details are now in place, and the conservancy is in the process of registering as a Public Benefit Organisation, which will enable the issuing of Section 18 tax certificates for larger and corporate donations.
Residents are also invited to join the Bendigo Conservancy Supporters WhatsApp group, which shares information on conservancy activities, nature-related concerns and community interests. Contact Joan on 083 2667953.
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