Overnight rain failed to dim the enthusiasm of a group of
dedicated Rotarians and residents to clean up a substantial build-up of Autumn
leaves that had become quite a problem on Flatbush Road in South Auckland, NZ.
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Rotarian Pat Taylor and residents cleaning up the Autumn
leaf drop on Flatbush Road
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Concerned residents raised the issue with the former Manukau
City Council, and more recently with the Otara-Papatoetoe Board, because leaves
were building up faster than they could cope with. Removal of the Pin Oak trees
had initially been sought, but a more environmentally acceptable solution of
pruning and street sweeping was put in place. Whilst it was a great
improvement, it didn't address all of the issues. Local resident Shirley emphasised, "The
leaves had become a bit of a safety issue for the elderly and children when
using the footpath."
Having worked closely for a number of years collaborating on
the Rongomai Pathway project, the Council’s Local and Sports Parks Department
approached the Rotary Club of Botany East Tamaki to work out a solution. With the Council providing the necessary
equipment, Rotarian Mike Lowe with the assistance of seven colleagues and a
number of local residents had the problem leaves cleaned up within a few
hours. The gathered leaves were then
delivered to some delighted gardeners at the Charntay Vegetable Gardens to be
used for mulch and compost. According to
Mike, it was project well worth doing and "a win-win
all round" for the residents, gardeners, the Council and Rotary.
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| Members of the Rotary Club of Botany East Tamaki and residents with a trailer load of Autumn leaves cleaned up on Flatbush Road |
Club website: www.botany.rotarysouthpacific.org
