Tree planting honours community stalwart

A tree-planting ceremony, held in Claremont’s Choo Choo Park last Thursday, paid tribute to Kevin Harwood, a prominent member of the Claremont community who died from a heart attack last month.

Mr Harwood, 66, was a member of the Belvedere East Civic Association (BECA) and the Ward 58 committee.

The BECA organised the memorial, which was attended by scores of Claremont residents, Mr Harwood’s family and ward councillor Katherine Christie.

A wild olive tree, which was organised by the City’s recreation and parks department, was planted in his honour.

His daughter, Tarryn Maclean, said the family drew comfort from the gesture.

“He kept an eye on unscrupulous developers in the area; he got spurred on to involve himself in other projects like looking out for the trees and the kids’ market day,” she said.

The BECA’s chairwoman, Kath Kenyon, said: “Trees give us life and support, and they stand tall. In many ways, this reflects Kevin. He was an important member of my committee; he did a lot for our community, and having this tree allows us to be with his spirit.”

Mr Harwood had helped to deal with problem buildings in the area and he had supported the stalls at the children’s markets, she said.

Ms Christie described Mr Harwood as “a man of peace”, saying, “He loved the environment, he was an active member of my ward committee, he attended all the meetings and he represented the needs of the community.”