Wynberg residents turned out on Youth Day to plant 15 new trees in Maynardville Park.

A park under threat

The event, that took place on Tuesday 16 June, was a direct response to a crisis that has unfolded in the park over recent months. The Polyphagous Shot Hole Borer (PSHB) beetle—a devastating invasive species spreading through the Western Cape—has claimed twelve of the park’s historic English Oaks. As a result, staff have had to remove each one. There is no treatment. Once a tree catches the infection, it must come down.

Community steps up

The Friends of Maynardville Park (FOMP) organised the planting in partnership with the City of Cape Town’s recreation and parks department. FOMP is a community group that works to protect and improve the park. Through the City’s Adopt-a-Tree Programme, volunteers planted 15 indigenous replacement trees. Trained parks staff guided them at every step.

Founding member Natasha Franchitti said the turnout exceeded expectations.

“It was lovely to see so many families coming together, young and old, to help plant trees,” she said. “It was a really fun morning filled with laughter as we all worked together to plant for the future of our park.”

Young and old dig in together

Children worked alongside parents and grandparents. Many are long-time park users who have watched the English Oaks disappear one by one. For some of the younger volunteers, it was also their first time planting a tree.

Park management representative Luyanda Mjuleni and her team guided volunteers throughout the morning. They made sure every tree took root correctly. Meanwhile, the Wynberg Rotary Club, Four & Twenty Café and BOS Tea kept everyone going with refreshments.

Planting for the future

For Franchitti, it was fitting that the event fell on Youth Day. The trees planted on Tuesday will take decades to reach full height. However, the children who dug them in will grow up alongside them.

What comes next

Maynardville Park still has more work ahead. FOMP is currently fundraising to repair and upgrade the park’s ablution facilities, which are in poor condition. Additionally, the group is developing plans for heritage and educational information boards. It is also planning regular community clean-up days.

Furthermore, FOMP will continue working with the City to improve the park’s accessibility, safety and long-term sustainability. If Tuesday’s turnout is any indication, the group will not lack willing hands when the next project comes around.

• Residents who want to volunteer or make a donation can email friends@friendsofmaynardvillepark.org.za or follow FOMP on Instagram.