Stink causes break with tradition
Shongweni landfill stench results in Thomas More College having to change route of annual walk, writes Zimasa Matiwane
TRADITION was altered yesterday as Thomas More College had to change the route for its 54th annual Long Walk because of the fumes coming from the Shongweni landfill.
Normally walkers of the 80km trek start at the school’s grounds in Kloof and go through Hillcrest and Botha’s Hill before finishing at Summerveld. But the end point has been plagued by a stench for months.
Earlier this week the Department of Environmental Affairs said Enviroserv’s Shongweni landfill site was the source of the stink.
The school’s principal, Shane Cuthbertson, said the walk had never been threatened before. “We came very close to saying hang on, we may need to not do this.
“About three weeks ago, we started getting calls from parents about the smell and its impact on pupils’ health. We decided to change routes, which proved to be a logistical nightmare for those involved in planning.
“The walk usually takes us five months of meticulous planning but this year we had to do it in three weeks. It was challenging, with 700 marshals who had to suddenly change spots but I am proud of the organising committee and everyone involved for making it happen,” he said.
Cuthbertson, who has been the principal there for 16 years, said the walk was an important tradition at the school. “It’s tremendous character-building for pupils. When you face a difficulty having achieved this walk makes it look easy,” said Cuthbertson.
Rene Daubinet, who was part of the organising committee for 15 years but was now a marshal, said it was a pity the school had to change the route.
“The last time the route was changed was as a result of developments in the area. It’s been very set, well organised.
“Having to change it at the last minute has probably given the team that put the walk together this year huge challenges. Also the condition... it’s not what it was any more and it’s very sad that this has been a result of indiscretion from wasting,” said Daubinet.
A mother of three pupils, Karen Ireland, said parents received notifications about the change “for safety reasons”.
“I’ve often woken up in the middle of the night to find the smell horrific. It was a good idea to change the route,” said Ireland.
The pupils were oblivious to all the logistical challenges but said they were relieved that the walk would go on despite the stench. First-time walkers said they were not going to let anything detract from their experience, while the rest said it was one of the most exciting days of their school year and they wouldn’t miss it for the world.
Cathlin Millichip, 11, was one of the 1 600 walkers who braved the cold and rain. “I’m very excited, it’s nice because I get together with friends. I set myself a goal and challenge myself to achieve it.”
Kearsney College pupil Qiniso Xulu, 15, was doing the walk for the second time.
Tara Zalanckas,14, said: “It’s a way for us to connect with fellow students while immersing ourselves in the unique culture of our school. ”