The life and achievements of local Red Cross members who have contributed significantly to the community will be commemorated with a living memorial at Knottingley Park and Arboretum.
Over the past decade the Waimate Red Cross has received permission to plant three trees, which are now well established in the Maple Area of the park. One of the trees celebrates the 100th anniversary of the Red Cross in the district and the other two trees celebrate the contributions of Joan Tindall and Pat Arbuckle.
At an Ordinary Council Meeting on 21 April, Council agreed to formalise the area as The Waimate Red Cross Memorial Area to allow for further trees to be planted to celebrate the lives of key members.
The number and species of the trees will be agreed in collaboration with the Parks and Reserves Manager, to ensure the trees are planted far enough apart. The public will continue to have full access to the area, and the Red Cross will ensure the area is kept free of gorse, broom and noxious weeds.
Elected members felt that this would enhance this area of the park and contribute to the development of the arboretum.
