Soon visitors entering Monte Vista will be welcomed by a fully grown forest.
Fever Trees, which can grow up to five meters, are currently growing at the entrance to the leafy suburb and forms part of the Memorial Forest on Monte Vista Boulevard. The idea is to have people see the trees as they enter the area, says Monte Vista Plattekloof Glen Ratepayers’ Residents Association members Kelvin Irvine and Tyrel Painczyk who spearheaded the initiative.
The Memorial Forest was established more than four years ago. Since then, more than 50 fever trees have been planted by residents, organisations, and private companies.
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Along with the trees that were planted on the open piece of land on the corners of Monte Vista Boulevard and Wingfield Place, a fence had also been erected, and tables and chairs installed. Plans are also in place to install a Wall of Remembrance.
Speaking to TygerBurger on Friday at the site, Kelvin and Tyrel said the Memorial Forest project had been well supported and that people continue to plant trees. Those who wish to plant a tree are requested to contact the ratepayers’ and residents association.
Kelvin said each tree is geo-tagged. The reason for this, is because there are pipes and cables beneath the ground, which they have to be mindful of.
Several of the trees also feature rocks with a personal message on it.
First tree
The first fever tree was planted on 7 September 2019.
“There are over 50 trees planted with space for many more. We only use fever trees as they are gentle on the grass as they let light through. Thorns protect bird nests from cats. They are hardy trees that grow anywhere and are indigenous to South Africa. They grow fast so people will see results in their lifetime. The tree can grow half a meter a year, and trees get very tall. They will have a unique green bark as opposed to usual brown,” explained Kelvin.
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He said each tree is owned and looked after by the family that bought it and planted it, this includes watering it. The owner of the Engen service station across the road, Chris Faure, also sponsors water to assist those who cannot travel with water.
“Each tree has its geo-coordinates recorded and the name of the family. They plant the tree in remembrance of a loved one.
“Since inception we have also had the forest framed with ranch fencing through the ward allocation via Ward councillor Cheryl Visser, as well as provided the bins and picnic tables.
“The City of Cape Town’s recreation and parks department do a fantastic job to ensure the grass is maintained, which helps give the Memorial Forest extra dignity,” Kelvin said.
Some of the people who have trees planted in their honour are Pat Rategan, former chair of the ratepayers’ and residents’ association, and Vic Barrow, former chair of the Monte Vista Plattekloof Glen Neighbourhood Watch.
- Anyone who wishes to plant a tree for a loved one can e-mail secretary@mvratepayers.co.za
