A high school learner is proving that small, thoughtful actions can make a big difference. By working with the people of Lidgetton village and creating a litter boom from discarded materials, Matthew Rees is tackling litter and helping protect the Lions River.
Midlands, South Africa (08 July 2026) – While Lidgetton village, located along the Lions River, is often associated with the affluent and picturesque “Midlands Meander” tourism route, the local permanent community faces severe socio-economic challenges that stand in stark contrast.
Among these challenges is a lack of reliable municipal refuse collection, which has led to illegal dumping and litter directly affecting the area’s streams and surroundings.
Moved by this issue, Michaelhouse learner Matthew Rees of the Baines residence recently started an inspiring service project in Lidgetton village to help clean the Lions River.
Matthew took it upon himself to engage with community members and fellow Baines boys, while also partnering with local councillors, the Duzi-uMngeni Conservation Trust (DUCT) and Love Howick.
He designed an inventive project using a “No-Value” litter boom, constructed from discarded plastic bottles and created to be effective but worthless, thereby deterring theft and helping ensure it remains in the river.
The litter boom works as a floating barrier, designed to intercept and trap floating plastic, debris and macro-pollutants before they can flow further downstream.
“By focusing on the basics like litter, water health and education, we can ensure the Lions River remains a clean, safe and healthy resource for generations to come,” Matthew shared.
Several school staff members supported Matthew in his endeavours, including the Development Team, which helped Matt set up a crowdfunding campaign as an ongoing fund to help pay for the project’s resources.
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Cape Town Kayakers Rescue Starving African Penguin Far Out to SeaThe educator in charge of Service, Peta Roberts, explained that this was Matthew’s service honours project and commended him for taking the initiative to support an underserved community with such a passionate and purpose-driven approach.
“He is to be congratulated on an excellent project, and we throw our full support behind it. I’m so proud of Matt, and thank you so much too, Mr Le Cordeur, for supporting Matthew throughout. This really is an incredible project!”
A huge well done to this young man for stepping up to solve an environmental issue and address the problems experienced by the people of Lidgetton. This is how our communities, and the world at large, change for the better.
Sources: Michaelhouse
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