I AM a newcomer to Paarl having moved here from Somerset West about a month ago.
One of the many considerations which influenced my wife and myself to settle in Paarl is the rich and varied history of the town and more importantly the existence of the beautiful Arboretum stretching along the eastern bank of the Berg River.
I looked forward with such eager anticipation to explore the trees of the world as represented in the Arboretum and to enjoy the seasons from winter to spring, then summer and lastly the glorious spectacle of the trees in their autumn dress.
The Arboretum I found out was started in 1957 by foresighted people who created the beauty that we can enjoy today and what a treasure house they have created through their unselfish toil over the years.
Imagine my disappointment when I was told that the Arboretum is a “no go” area and that anyone who ventures there does so at his peril. The attacks, robberies, assaults and rapes speak for themselves.
But must it be so? Surely there are sufficient people in Paarl who love and enjoy the Arboretum and who can stand together and enjoy and appreciate the facility which has been created for all the people of Paarl.
Why must we be held to ransom by a few evil people who deny us what is ours and what we all want to enjoy.
Surely we can ensure the safety of people enjoying the Arboretum by starting with security personnel patrolling the area if only over a week-end and on say Wednesday afternoon.
I for one will be prepared to contribute a modest monthly payment to bring this about. There must be hundreds of other Paarl citizens who would be willing to do the same. Should we not strive to form a “Friends of the Arboretum” association and do our best to change things around or must we bow our heads in defeat and say “It is sufficient that good men do nothing for evil to prevail.”Ray de Villiers
