Innovation

I am Thomas Swana, a long time resident in Upper Trovato, and I'm delighted to share a brief history of our pioneering community security initiatives.

Our journey began in the year 2000, shortly after my family and I purchased our home at 27 Stuartfield Avenue. It was outside this very address that I first met Robin Carlisle, the then-chairman of our residents' association. He inquired if we would participate in the newly introduced "Bicycle Patrol Scheme" managed by ADT. This innovative scheme featured a guard making regular rounds on a bicycle to enhance safety and security within our neighbourhood. Curious and eager to contribute, I agreed, marking our family's first step into community involvement.

This scheme was notably the first of its kind in the country. It included a modest wooden Wendy House at the entrance of Upper Trovato, serving as the guard's base for monitoring the comings and goings in the area. This setup not only pioneered residential neighbourhood security but also cemented Upper Trovato's reputation as one of the safest neighborhoods in Cape Town.

As we advanced, our community continued to innovate. About ten years after the initial security scheme, following a spike in burglaries, the residents collectively decided to upgrade to a 24-hour CCTV surveillance system. This system incorporated advanced License Plate Recognition technology, once again setting a precedent for residential security systems nationwide.

Today, our community remains committed to leveraging the latest technological advancements to ensure the safety of our residents. We envision a future where drones provide 24-hour aerial surveillance, further enhancing our capabilities to monitor and respond to neighbourhood activities. Our efforts have always been driven by a spirit of good neighbourliness and voluntary contributions, ensuring that Upper Trovato not only remains a secure place to live but also a leading example of community-driven innovation.

We look forward to continuing to serve and protect our community together.