Held on Saturday 28 March, the first working bee took place at the Elephant Walk area within Smithfield Memorial Park, located at the corner of Anderson Walk and Morialta Drive, Smithfield.

The initiative is a joint partnership between the City of Playford, Adelaide Filipino Lions Club, Lions Club of Angle Vale and Lions Club of Elizabeth Playford, with Council providing tools, materials and staff guidance to support the upkeep of the site.

Around 20 volunteers, including Lions members and local community participants, worked alongside Council staff to clear leaf litter and debris, refresh garden beds with new mulch and improve walking paths. The working bee focused on restoring the space while creating a more welcoming and accessible environment for the community.

The project was driven by a shared desire to bring local Lions Clubs together through a practical initiative that delivers meaningful benefits to the community. The Elephant Walk was identified as an ideal location due to its visibility, history and everyday use by families, dog walkers and local residents moving through the area.

The site holds a strong connection to the community and is part of one of Playford’s premier open spaces, Smithfield Memorial Park, which also hosts annual ANZAC Day commemorations.

Mayor Glenn Docherty said the initiative demonstrates the value of collaboration between Council and community groups.

“It’s fantastic to see our first Adopt a Spot site established in such a cherished area of our city,” Mayor Docherty said.

“This initiative helps ensure that this section of Smithfield Memorial Park is cared for while also creating a sense of pride, ownership and participation in maintaining our shared spaces.”

“Local parks, playgrounds and outdoor areas play an important role in supporting a healthy community. They help people connect with their neighbours, encourage active lifestyles and enhance the overall look and feel of our city.”

Jane Onuzans, from the Adelaide Filipino Lions Club, said the project highlights what can be achieved by a group of like-minded individuals committed to contributing to something the whole community can benefit from.

“The Elephant Walk is part of everyday life for so many people, whether they’re walking through, visiting the playground or heading to the shops,” Ms Onuzans said.

“By working together to improve this space, we’re helping build a sense of pride, ownership and connection across our community.”

“Projects like this show what community is all about. Volunteers bring more than just helping hands, they bring pride, care and a collective responsibility for the places we all enjoy.”

The Adopt a Spot program provides a simple and scalable model that can be expanded across the city, encouraging more community groups to take part in the care and presentation of local spaces.

Ongoing maintenance activities are planned for the site, including litter collection, weeding and future planting, ensuring the space continues to evolve and remain well cared for into the future.

Council will continue to explore opportunities to grow the program across Playford, supporting community-led initiatives that strengthen local pride and connection.