Current Edition >> Archive Section >> Letters to the editor >> 1 - 15 March

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Miraculous development at Rosendal
Just to let you know that around the corner from you, in the small hamlet of Rosendal - a most interesting, innovative and selfless project was in progress. What am I talking about ? 20 years ago an Australian woman, Marilyn, passed through Rosendal and was so taken up by Mautse, that she made a pact to herself to return and to impart her skills and experience to people who would be interested. She was on a mission - in the interim she managed to excite other artists and professionals to join her - there was Marion from Wales, Marty and Bridget and their two delightful sons from Australia. They arrived in Rosendal with their tools materials and skills which they imparted to the community. There was a sense of pride and enthusiasm in all that the little group got involved in. Huts were decorated, signs were made for the existing shops and a path in the form of a snake meandering from hut to hut was laid out, while the bricks surrounding the path were painted by local schoolchildren. Meanwhile in the workshops a group of women were learning to sew and bead - the results were absolutely fabulous. They created handbags and pieces of jewellery for their own rondavel shops. The miracle is that all this was achieved in five weeks with no funding from government or any organisation. The women only hope that the townsfolk and local authorities will support and sustain them in what they have already achieved. These women are keen to continue and any support is welcome. Any mention in your newspaper can only do the Mautse women the world of good. Pop in and see for yourself. If you need any futher information, please contact us.
Marilyn has returned to Australia on 19 February together with Bridget and Marty. Marion has also returned to Wales. However, their admirable legacy remains for anybody considering it worthwhile to support further. Regards Robyn Higgins Tel. (011) 646 3495 Cell. 083 311 4768