In a recent opening of the Lions’ Sensory Garden at the botanical garden on September 8, 2017, which was attended by 60 Lions club members from across the West Rand (Wilro Park, Helderkruin, Roodepoort Host, Clearwater Cyber and Krugersdorp), honoured guests from the botanical garden, and the Guide Dog Association SA.
“The opening of the Sensory Garden today was a very special occasion for the West Rand Lions Clubs. This was one of our Centennial Legacy projects done in celebration of 100 years of community service by Lions Clubs around the world.
Vision is one of our most important core projects and we are proud to leave a legacy that will be enjoyed by many visitors to the botanical garden,” said Sandy van Heerden, the Public Relations Officer for the Lions Club of Wilro Park.
The immediate past District Governor, Bernd Gerhard, was joined by Sandy King (wife of the current District Governor) and Pierre Theron (Chairman of Sight) as the ribbon was cut and the Sensory Garden Trail was declared open. There was great excitement as Pieter van Niekerk, Head of Public Relations for the South African Guide Dog Association, accompanied by his guide dog O’Reilly was joined by Johannes and Jessica Grib from the Lions Roodepoort Host Club, to walk the trail for the first time. “While on the trail, Jessica read the new Braille signs describing the sights, sounds and plants along the way,” said Sandy.
To make things easier for visually impaired visitors wishing to experience the new Sensory Garden, a Braille guide book will also be available at the garden’s entrance. This will assist them to fully enjoy the Sensory Garden.
Bernd used the opportunity to thank everyone who was in any way involved in the planning and execution of the project. He also thanked the Lions Clubs who generously donated towards the project.
Sandy concluded by saying, “As part of the Legacy Project, the Lions Club of Weltevreden Park refurbished the old Lions’ Bridge as well, and, all in all, it was the perfect way to celebrate the Lions’ 100th birthday!”
