FROM the rubble-strewn and forgotten yard it once was, the Merewent Cheshire Home recently unveiled its newly built Victor Daitz Recreational Area and Garden, a wheelchair-friendly, green oasis created to offer peace and enjoyment to the home’s residents, workers and visitors.

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The transformation was the brainchild of the manager of the home, Winnie Mkhize, who envisioned making something special out of the under-utilised area.

“The back yard was a barrow covered with weeds and rubbish, and most of our residents had never bothered to set foot in it. It also was not wheelchair accessible and didn’t actually have any benefit,” said Mkhize.

Set on making a change, Mkhize dreamed of an active space where people could interact with nature, unwind with family and friends and just be out in the fresh air. She added that the front yard was concrete from end to end, with no vegetation, stimulation, or comfort for the residents. “I came up with the idea of converting the back yard into a garden that will be a sanctuary for the residents, staff, families and visitors,” said Mkhize.

Through the generous support of the Victor Daitz Foundation, the dream is now a reality. The renovated back yard features a wheelchair trail, new fencing, braai area, shaded tables and benches, a Jojo tank, a food garden and colourful flowerbeds. The highlight of the space is the garden’s idyllic arch tunnel covered in brightly coloured plant fixtures.

“We have a young couple that is planning to get married in the home and they love the garden, especially the arch tunnel which can now serve as a beautiful backdrop for the wedding,” said Mkhize.

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Apart from being beautiful, the garden also yields useful therapy. “⁠It allows them to get in touch with nature, can now spend quality time with their loved ones, and have their braais and relaxation time in a conducive environment,” she said.

Mkhize added that they hope to hire out the space for small functions to bring in extra income for the home.

The garden was conceptualised and made possible by Ecolife Landscape. Mkhize extended a special thanks to Craig Thurston for his amazing job in bringing the project into being with diligence and perfection.

David Simpson, managing trustee of the Victor Daitz Foundation, said he was proud to be part of the project. “We are honoured to have played a role in bringing this space to life — a space that will offer comfort, connection, and joy to the residents and the broader community. Victor Daitz believed in uplifting lives and restoring dignity, and this project reflects that spirit beautifully,” said Simpson.

What was once a neglected, inaccessible back yard is now a vibrant space that can be enjoyed by all.

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