THE smell of varnish and paint top coats diffused through the area around the Amanzimtoti Bird Sanctuary as members of the community, including eThekwini Municipality workers, joined Love Toti on its year-long restoration project on August 23.

Also read: Love Toti to renovate and restore beloved bird sanctuary [Pics]

The project commenced in June when the NPO chose the sanctuary to positively impact local tourism.

Project co-ordinator, Marion Opperman, said that the end goal is to restore the sanctuary to its former glory as the destination of choice for birders, families and tourists.

While the focus is currently on outward appearance, with Love Toti starting small on the outside parking and garden areas, the signage and brick walls, the Municipality’s natural resources division got to work in the park removing alien plants.

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“It’s always inspiring to see how generous Toti people are. Before Love Toti even picked up a brush, we had so many businesses helping us, from advising us on the best products to use for the signage and face brick walls to ensure they last for several years, to sponsoring the paints and sealants. We have an unbelievably caring community,” said Opperman.

Through collaborative efforts, the signage and bathrooms have been repainted, new doors have been fitted, walls at the entrance have been cleaned and sealed, and flowers have been planted.

Once the tables have all been repaired and the umbrellas and chairs are replaced, Opperman said that the first phase will be complete.

“We have future plans of rebuilding the braai stands in the picnic area and attending to environmental issues in the sanctuary, but it’s going to take time. We know that Amanzimtoti will continue to step up and make a difference, because it’s who we are,” concluded Opperman.

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