Bloem Express E-edition 22 October 2025

Quarrymarkedbydeath

TEBOHO SETENA

The drowning of Benjamin van Wyk (20) in the Witherow quarry in Heidedal extends the list of victims who tragically perish while attempting to swim in the still and deep blue waters. He drowned on Thursday, 16 October

The man-made hole has been dubbed the Quarry of Death due to the drowning of multiple people, of all ages

The Bloemfontein police called off an intensive search after divers were unable to retrieve the victim’s body This search spanned over two days

Police divers from the Welkom Diving unit were unable to retrieve the body, despite employing various search measures Sgt Mahlomola Kareli, provincial spokesperson for the Free State police, said divers had worked throughout the period to the point where it was determined that Benjamin’s body may have been carried by currents or moved to a deeper section of the quarry The deeper section is es-

timated to extend to approximately 50m

Kareli said that the police had been monitoring developments at the quarry The frantic search was initially delayed on the first day due to poor light conditions

An inquest docket was opened for an investigation into the young man ’ s drowning Kareli said according to information received, Benjamin and two companions went to the quarry to swim He was quickly overwhelmed after he jumped into the water and tragically drowned

While the exact number is unconfirmed, community activists estimate that nearly 50 people, mostly young ones, have drowned in the quarry over the years

In fact, a memorial service was held in June 2024 for the “49 unconfirmed deaths by drowning” victims dating back to 2000 The event had been organised by Heidedal community activists as part of Youth Day commemoration on 16 June

The growing list include Dustin Kukari and Reginald Manie Ruiters

Some of the victims drowned during fishing activity Other bodies discovered are believed to have

been disposed of in the blue waters, having been murdered elsewhere

The quarry has been a long-standing danger for the residents of Heidedal

Despite community calls and petitions over the years, the quarry remains unfenced and unrehabilitated, with illegal dumping and criminal activities also occurring in the area

The quarry, located approximately 500m from the nearest residential area, has been in existence since the 1970s It has emerged that it began as a venture for making tiles and bricks by Tongaat Hullets during that period The man-made hole is located on privately-owned land of 112ha

It seems no concerted measures have been implemented to prevent further tragedies The absence of a functional local swimming pool, combined with Bloemfontein’s sweltering summers, drives children to the quarry ’ s deadly waters, while its unsecured state has also fostered criminal activity

This Quarry of Death is a hub for crime, including rape, robberies, murders and drug dealings

Elders show compassion

The Phelang Disability Home in Phelindaba, Bloemfontein, has received a worthy donation in the form of clothes, as well as snacks, in aid of the children in its care. This gesture of goodwill is part of the Bloemfontein Golden Masters’ (BGM) community programme

The goods were donated to this non-profit daycare centre on 8 October Members of the donating organisation are mainly elderly people, women and men They are actively involved in welfare and wellness activities in the Bloemfontein township

Neo Moleyane, spokesperson for the BGM, said the facility had been chosen as beneficiary because of the important service it provides in caring for disabled children

“Members contributed clothes, which is something very important for the dignity of these children housed at this centre,” said Moleyane

“The aim of our gesture is basically to support them, and also give moral support to people caring for these children, the most vulnerable in society Caring for disabled children is a difficult task, requiring patience and love as illustrated by those who work at this centre”

Phelindaba during the handover of the donation Photo: Supplied

Having been founded in 2017 by Motlalepula Motlolometsi, the Phelang Disability Home looks after 26 children aged from four to 25 She said the centre mainly depended on state grants for rendering services and private donors for

food and other essentials

The centre has nine full-time personnel: a chef, seven caregivers and an administrative officer In addition, there are three volunteers, mainly youth, helping to provide essential care

Criminal process pending against students

Despite an agreement having been reached on the phasing out of provisional registration over two years, criminal processes are pending against the 23 students arrested in connection with sporadic violent incidents on the main campus of the University of the Free State (UFS) in Bloemfontein

On Wednesday, 15 October, the UFS executive committee (exco) signed a memorandum of agreement with student bodies: the Institutional Representative Council (ISRC) and the Campus Student Representative Councils (CSRCs) The aim of this was to end violent protests against the exco ’ s decision to discontinue provisional registration for the 2026 academic year

The arrestees, aged between 18 and 22, were apprehended on separate occasions on and off the premises of the university’s main campus Their acts formed part of a demonstration demanding review of the decision

The arrestees appeared in the Bloemfontein Magistrates’ Court on separate charges and

dates: 10, 13 and 16 October Members of the Bloemfontein police and private security on campus effected the arrests

Lt Col Thabo Covane, spokesperson for the Free State police, said charges ranged from contravention of the Road Traffic Act to contravention of the Criminal Matters Amendment Act and public violence as well as charges relating to malicious damage to property

Those charged with contravention of the Criminal Matters Amendment Act and public violence are a group of nine students, consisting of two females and seven males This is the first group arrested on the university’s main campus, set to reappear in the Bloemfontein Magistrates’ Court on 4 November

Covane said they were released on warning, with strict conditions, prohibiting them from entering, or residing on, the institution’s campus until their case is finalised Their first court appearance was on 10 October, a day after their arrest

The second group, six male students, appeared in court on 13 October, following their

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Man in court after UFS loses R1,5 m

TEBOHO SETENA

The Hawks in the Free State have arrested a man from Phuthaditjhaba in the Eastern Free State for allegedly defrauding the University of the Free State (UFS) of more than R1,5 million through bogus student accommodation

The accused, Motlatsi Nelson Khalane (31), made his first appearance in the Phuthaditjhaba Magistrates’ Court on 14 October, a day after his arrest

Members of the Bethlehem-based Hawks’ Serious Commercial Crime Investigation team pounced on Khalane

WO Fikiswa Matoti, provincial spokesperson for the Hawks, said the suspect had been granted bail of R5 000, with conditions One of the conditions is that he must reappear at all scheduled court hearings The case against Khalane is set to continue in the Bethlehem Commercial Crimes Court on 11 December

Matoti said the elite crime-fighting wing had launched an investigation after the university discovered that Khalane’s student accommodation was non-existent

arrest regarding a petrol bomb attack on 11 October, at about 01:15

Covane said these students were charged with malicious damage to property on the university’s main campus They allegedly threw a homemade petrol bomb at the guard room of the university situated at gate 2, at Badenhorst Street

The third group, eight male students, was arrested on Wednesday, 15 October, about 07:20, for blockading D F Malherbe Avenue, adjacent to gate 5 The disgruntled group used stones to block the road, resulting in traffic congestion

According to Covane, the group is charged with contravention of the Road Traffic Act and public disruption

Following the escalation of violent acts, the UFS closed all three campuses: the main campus and south campus in Bloemfontein, as well as the Qwaqwa campus Incidents of violence accompanied by vandalism were reported at the Qwaqwa campus, but no arrests were made ■ Academic activities have since resumed read about this on p 3

“It is alleged that Khalane, through his company, submitted an application to the UFS’s Qwaqwa campus to be considered for the provision of student accommodation In his application, he claimed to have 215 rooms available to accommodate students The application was approved, and funds were subsequently paid into his company ’ s business account between January 2023 and December 2024,” said Matoti

However, during the verification process of the said accommodation, the institution’s management made a shocking discovery

“The university discovered that the two stands provided in the application stood empty, with no rooms built As a result, the UFS suffered a financial loss of more than R1,5 million,” Matoti explained

She said that an investigation was ongoing in the fraud case against Khalane

Men walk streets with ‘explosive’ bag

A tip-off has led to the recovery of stolen military equipment and the arrest of two men in Universitas, Bloemfontein

According to a report, a Bloemsec Rapid Response unit officer detained the two suspects upon finding the weapons in their possession

An arrest took place in the morning of Friday, 17 October

The private security officer acted on information received from vigilant community members in the area

The suspects, carrying a bag, were spotted on foot in Paul Kruger Avenue, and aroused suspicion

The military weapons discovered include mortar cartridges and firing pins components of a weapon system that fires explosive rounds

The bomb squad was reportedly called to verify and clear the cartridges the security officer had recovered

The destructive weapons were subsequently verified by the military police and the Bloemfontein Flying Squad, who were called to the scene

It emerged these dangerous equipment were apparently stolen from De Brug Military Base, which is located outside Bloemfontein

The suspects’ ages and origins are unknown

Deal ends chaotic student-led protest

TEBOHO SETENA

Academic activities across all three campuses of the University of the Free State (UFS) recommenced on Monday, 20 October, after being abruptly halted due to student-led protests prompted by the UFS executive committee’s (exco)decision to discontinue provisional registration for the 2026 academic year.

The resumption of programmes

came just three days after the UFS exco and the student bodies at the three campuses the main campus and south campus in Bloemfontein, as well as the Qwaqwa campus reached an agreement that provisional registration would rather be phased out over a period of two years

The university’s exco, the Institutional Student Representative Council (ISRC) and the Campus Student Representative Councils (CSRCs) signed a memorandum of agreement on Wednesday, 15 October The university confirmed this significant step in a statement issued on Thursday

The protests resulted in disruptions of academic programmes and the temporary closure of the campuses

As a result, multi-disciplinary law enforcement agents, comprising private-public security and members of the police, were deployed for safety at three university campuses

The meeting that resulted in a deal being struck was held in response to the decision taken on 26 September against provisional registration

Unhappy students demanded that the

decision be reversed to immediately end provisional registration for the 2026 academic year

In terms of the agreement, the phasing out of provisional registration has been restructured This means that from 1 January 2028, all students will be on a fully registered system

“In a spirit of working towards a fairer, more equitable, and sustainable financial support system for all academically deserving students, the university management and the student

leadership agreed that provisional registration would be phased out over a period of two years This phased approach allows the university time to assess the risks students are facing with a view to assisting students,” said Lacea Loader, senior director for communication and marketing at the UFS

“In recognition of the challenges students face, the outcomes of the meeting reflect the university’s ongoing commitment, and it ensures that all students are supported within a

financially sustainable framework”

Loader said the committee remained committed to ongoing engagement with student leadership through open dialogue that reflects the university’s values

Parallel to the agreement reached on Wednesday, it was announced the academic calendar had been amended to ensure the successful completion of the 2025 academic year

“The end of the fourth quarter will be postponed, and the start of

the main end-of-year examinations will be moved to 10 November This decision applies to all students, except final-year students in the Faculty of Health Sciences They will commence their examinations on 3 November to enable them to graduate in December 2025 and begin their community service or internships in January 2026,” confirmed Loader

The memorandum was signed after parties agreed to the following terms:

■ Phase out provisional registration over a period of two years

■ Staggered concession of R70 000 in year one and R600 000 in year two

Thereafter, full implementation of a fair, equitable, and sustainable support system will take place

■ All UFS-registered students to have access to official academic records

The university explained the origin of the decision on provisional registration was rising levels of student debt

A review of the 2025 registration data found provisional registration is not an effective mechanism to support students Findings revealed each year, an average of 8% of students register provisionally In 2025, the majority of students who registered provisionally and signed payment arrangements were unable to meet commitments: 58% paid no fees, while only 14% managed to settle their fees in full

“As a result, most of these students would still face deregistration by midyear due to unresolved historic debt

Notably, students who successfully converted from provisional to full registration did so primarily through UFS-funded bursaries, rather than personal payment,” it was explained

My View Public called on to assist

The South African National Blood Service (SANBS) and Round Table Southern Africa (RTSA) are calling on all citizens to become blood donor ambassadors through the simple yet profound act of donating blood

Parallel to this call, on 24 September the parties have launched the Bleed for Change campaign a national blood drive initiative that runs until February 2026

“Every day in South Africa, someone urgently needs blood to survive be it a mother in childbirth, a child battling cancer, or a victim of a car accident,” said Sifiso Khoza, communication manager at the SANBS

“Donating blood is one of the most powerful acts of humanity Bleed for Change is about showing South Africans that you do not need to be rich or famous to save a life you just need to be willing” Khoza said the demand remains high for safe blood in the country because less than 1% of

Dr Johan Fourie

South Africans donate blood

“Blood cannot be manufactured it can only come from another human being “This makes every donor an unsung hero Bleed for Change

honours the everyday heroes who give of themselves so that others may live,” he elaborated

“As Round Table Southern Africa, our mission has always been about service, community, and

impactful change

“We want to demonstrate that young South Africans have the power to make a life-saving difference Blood donation is not just a medical act; it is a legacy of kindness and Ubuntu that strengthens our communities,” said Riaan Greyling, branding manager

“Whether you are a donor, a recipient, or someone who simply wants to make a difference, Bleed for Change is a call to action that links the spirit of Heritage Month with the act of saving lives,” said Khoza

“Let your legacy be life itself Donate blood Save lives Be the hero South Africa needs One unit of blood can save up to three lives: three families, three futures, three stories continued, all because of one simple act”

To donate blood in South Africa, you must meet the eligibility criteria, including being between 16 and 75 years old, weighing at least 50kg, being in good health with a low-risk lifestyle, and having eaten a meal within the last four hours

Teenage cancer patients embraced

LIENTJIE MENTZ

Not only does the National District Hospital in Bloemfontein have first of its kind adolescent rooms, it now boasts a dedicated playroom for teenagers Reach for a Dream’s very first adolescent Dream Rooms were introduced on 10 October Kerry Donkin, regional manager for the Reach for a Dream Foundation in KwaZulu-Natal, the Free State and the Northern Cape, opened these rooms at the hospital along with officials and Joshua Moela, managing executive of Cell C, the company that helped to fund it

“Adolescents are often forgotten in a world where there are a lot of focus on pediatrics and treatment for adults When I heard that teenagers are specifically cared for here in the National Oncology unit, we jumped at the opportunity to create a unique room, ” said Donkin

Dr Anton van Aswegen, head of Neurosurgery at the Department of Health, said the hospital realised the need for a dedicated space

for teenagers Thanks to sponsorships two rooms were furnished and are now dedicated to teenage patients and their parents or caregivers, while they receive treatment for cancer here

“This is the first hospital, across private and public hospitals, to dedicate space to adolescents,” said Van Aswegen

“Being a teenager is already a difficult period

Put on top of that a cancer diagnosis; it really is tough Having a space where their needs are taken into account really makes a difference

“We tell them that there is a future They should not give up hoping They need to continue their schooling to be ready for the future”

Donkin said these Dream Rooms presented a creative opportunity for her team

“We have done several Dream Rooms, including one in the peadiatrics ward at the Universitas Academic Hospital This chance to do something for the teenagers, was a new chance to make it special We hope that future patients will enjoy this Dream Room, especially as it caters for the needs of our young adults”

At the launch of the unique Dream Rooms are from the left,front: Kerry Donkin (regional manager of Reach for a Dream); back: Dr Anton van Aswegen (head of neurosurgery),Dr Balekile Mzangwa (chief executive officer of the Universitas Academic Hospital) and Joshua Moela (managing executive of Cell C) Photo: Lientjie Mentz

Man sent to prison after wife dies due to beating

The Free State High Court has sentenced a Trompsburg man to a minimum of nine years ’ imprisonment after finding him guilty of culpable homicide and assault with the intent to cause grievous bodily harm (GBH) in connection with his wife’s death

Pule Louw (34), who has two children with the deceased, was sentenced on Thursday, 16 October, for the incident that occurred early in June last year

His wife, Dolly Louw, died following a brutal domestic violence attack

The conviction and sentencing were based on compelling evidence presented during the trial

The case was initially heard in the Trompsburg Magistrate’s Court, before being transferred to the High Court in Bloemfontein

Sgt Sinah Mpakane, spokesperson for the Free State police, confirmed that Louw had pleaded guilty to both charges

After an assault leading up to the incident of assault that claimed her life, the deceased detailed how her husband had severely assaulted her with a wooden stick

“Louw was sentenced to six years for assault GBH and nine years for culpable homicide The sentences will run concurrently, meaning he will serve nine years in prison He was also declared unfit to

Cybersecurity investment vital

DR ARADHANA MANSINGH

South Africa is emerging as a vibrant hub of innovation, with a dynamic tech ecosystem and a growing community of skilled professionals driving progress across industries Yet, as the digital landscape expands, so too does the need to strengthen cybersecurity infrastructure and retain the talent that powers it.

As South Africa marks Cyber Security Awareness Month during October, our position as an emerging digital economy is scrutinised

Recent data breaches have underscored the urgency of this challenge, but it also presents an opportunity: to invest more deeply in our local expertise and foster a culture of resilience to position South Africa as a global leader in secure digital transformation

The question is not whether we have the talent, it is rather whether we are creating the conditions for it to thrive

South Africa’s tech sector is brimming with potential, but unlocking its full potential requires strategic investment in talent development With an estimated shortage of 20 000 to 70 000 skilled professionals in fields such as cybersecurity, artificial intelligence (AI) and software development, the demand for expertise far exceeds the supply This gap presents a powerful opportunity: to reimagine how we educate, train, and retain our brightest minds

Like the rest of the world, South Africa is eager to enhance its technological infrastructure to become a global competitor in a robust digital economy

However, it faces a uniquely African challenge: our top talent being poached by European and Asian markets

If South Africa fails to address its cyber and tech talent shortage, the long-term implications for the digital economy are stark Organisations will face higher cyber risks, as fewer skilled professionals will mean slower detection and containment of breaches, driving costs into the tens of millions of rand per incident Digital transformation projects will stall due to a lack of expertise in cloud, AI, and cybersecurity, making businesses more reliant on expensive foreign vendors

Over time, this shortage erodes competitiveness, reduces local innovation capacity, and weakens the country’s position as a digital hub, ultimately undermining economic growth and investor confidence

The ongoing brain drain strips South Africa of its most experienced cyber and ICT professionals, directly reducing the country’s ability to innovate and build intellectual property Without senior talent to mentor teams or lead projects, innovation cycles slow, while the ability to adopt and secure emerging technologies like AI and advanced cybersecurity tools becomes limited This skills gap makes South Africa less competitive on the global stage and signals risk to potential investors, as talent depth is a key driver of foreign direct investment In effect, the brain drain is not only a talent issue, but a strategic economic threat that impacts growth and global positioning

possess a firearm, ” Mpakane said

The investigation revealed that Dolly had been severely beaten, with her face swollen and bleeding Emergency medical personnel declared her dead upon arrival at the family’s Key Street home on 1 June last year

The court heard harrowing testimony about the brutal assault, including evidence from a statement Dolly had made on 7 April 2024 when she opened an assault GBH case at the Trompsburg police station

“The deceased detailed how her husband had severely assaulted her with a wooden stick and broken her leg in the process, ”

Mpakane explained

During the fatal attack, the court heard, Louw had continuously kicked and slapped his wife

Afterwards, Dolly went to sleep on a mattress on the floor with her children

Her death was discovered the following morning when the couple’s ten-year-old son tried to wake her

When she did not respond, the child informed his father, who told the children to go and play outside

The boy later saw an ambulance and police arriving at the family home

■ The court reduced the charge from the initial murder charge to culpable homicide, following Dolly’s death

It has been widely reported that Gen Z workers (born between 1997 and 2012) are not as solely motivated by salaries as Boomers, Gen X and Millennials To them, competitiveness needs to be displayed beyond their salary Capitalising on this may prove to be an innovative way to address the current brain drain and create a sustainable pool of talent

Companies need to look beyond pay scales and instead build meaningful career pathways and supportive work environments to retain local tech talent This includes offering transparent promotion frameworks, structured mentorship, and opportunities for continuous professional learning, such as industry certifications and funded training

Embedding flexible work arrangements, prioritising employee wellbeing, and designing roles around impactful, mission-critical projects can also increase job satisfaction Recognition, equity participation, and opportunities for short-term global rotations further solidify professionals commitment to local roles, making them feel valued and invested

Equally important is retention Competitive compensation, career development pathways, and a culture of continuous learning can transform local companies into magnets for top-tier talent When SA professionals see a future of growth and impact at home, they stay, and they lead

The path forward is clear: prioritise cybersecurity investment, champion local expertise, and create a future where SA technologists choose to stay and build their careers at home rather than seeking opportunities abroad

■ Mansingh is a former human resources executive, gender research specialist and empowerment coach

Matric’s win triumph for Eunice

LIENTJIE MENTZ

The deputy head girl of the Eunice High School, Kiara Subramanian, was announced as the Matriculant of the Year at a gala event on Tuesday, 14 October.

At the 44th event of the University of the Free State (UFS) and Netwerk24-Volksblad, the 14 semifinalists from all corners of South Africa gathered in Bloemfontein for the final judging

Kiara, who wants to study medicine at the UFS in 2026, said she felt grateful for the honour that was bestowed upon her

“Not just for the recognition, but for the reminder that when you walk in purpose, God will open the right doors at the right time

“I’m so proud to be planting this achievement into Eunice soil during our 150th birthday celebration

This isn’t the finish line, it’s the starting point for an exciting journey ahead

I’m just a small girl who had a big dream and an even bigger God, and I truly believe His hand of favour never fails”

The three ,finalist from Bloemfontein are from the left Kiara Subramanian (winner),Christiaan Kotze (Hoërskool Fichardtpark) and Amoné Verwey (Hoërskool Jim Fouché) PHOTO’S: Lientjie Mentz

Kiara says winning this competition has given her confidence to step boldly into her future at Kovsies

She follows in the footsteps of 43 other matriculants who started their journey in life after winning the Matriculant of the Year award

In 2024, Jayden Leech had the honour

The 14 finalists have an academic average of 87% They are:

■ Laura Andrade de Ponte of the High School for Girls in Potchefstroom;

■ Emile Dawson of the William Pescod High School in Kimberley;

■ Jané de Villiers of Hoërskool Witteberg in Bethlehem;

■ Liam-Loyd Doman of the Hoërskool Voortrekker in Bethlehem;

■ Vindry Horne of the Hoërskool Uitenhage in Uitenhage;

■ Michelle Jacobs of the Hoërskool Labori in Paarl;

■ Megan Johnson of the Hoërskool Menlopark in Pretoria;

■ Marné Koen of the Hoërskool Die Brandwag in Uitgenhage;

■ Christiaan Kotzé of the Hoërskool Fichardtpark;

■ Jenni Muller of the Hoërskool Wilgerivier in Frankfort;

■ Samantha Mynhardt of the Hoërskool Trio in Kroonstad;

■ Burgert van Heerden of the Hoër Landbouskool Marlow in Cradock; and

■Amoné Verwey of the Hoërskool Jim Fouché

Marinda Schutte (Derksen), the Matrieknooi of 1985, was the guest speaker

Esmé Aucamp gave the message

FS audit outcomes impress

MARTI WILL

Free State Premier Maqueen Letsoha-Mathae has welcomed the audit outcomes report for the 2024-’25 financial year, presented in Bloemfontein by Auditor-General Tsakani Maluleke on Wednesday, 15 October

The audit shows steady improvement, with three clean audits attained

The presentation formed part of the Auditor-General of South Africa’s (Agsa) provincial roadshows, designed to provide insights into the financial results of various provinces following the tabling of audit outcomes in parliament

The premier and executive council expressed satisfaction with the general improvement in audit outcomes across the province, compared to the previous financial year, noting a significant reduction in audit paragraphs that reflects enhanced financial management practices and stronger accountability culture within departments

Clean audits and service delivery linked

In her remarks, Maluleke emphasised that clean audits and service delivery were inseparable, stating it cannot be an “either-or” situation and that provincial government must achieve both objectives

She stressed that clean audits provided the foundation for good governance culture

Both the premier and auditor-general affirmed that impunity and good governance could not coexist,

QUICK CASH LOANS

Auditor-General Tsakani Maluleke (left) shaking hands with Premier Maqueen Letsoha-Mathae at the Auditor-General of South Africa’s (Agsa) roadshow in Bloemfontein on Wednesday Photo: Supplied

highlighting the province’s need to embrace consequence management

A critical area for improvement identified was the need to enhance Free State Government project management capacity, particularly strengthening infrastructure oversight, spending, and performance information whilst urgently addressing the province-wide phenomenon of contractors abandoning paid infrastructure project sites

Notable improvements recorded

Clean audits increased from two to

three, and 75% of departments and entities achieved unqualified opinions overall

Clean audits were earned by the Provincial Treasury and the Department of Economic, Small Business Development, Tourism and Environmental Affairs both under MEC Ketso Makume

The Free State Legislature is the third entity that received a clean audit

The central medical trading entity and fleet management were similarly praised for remarkable improvement

Challenges remain in key sectors

The auditor-general expressed satisfaction with the province’s trajectory whilst cautioning that departments such as Health and Education need to tighten their standard operating procedures (SOPs)

Letshoha-Mathae commended the province for achieving 100% on-time submission of financial statements, decreasing qualified audits with findings from six (38%) to four (25%), with no adverse findings, disclaimers, outstanding audits, or regressions

Commitment to continued improvement

“We will ensure that issues of performance reporting and compliance are prioritised to foster a culture of clean governance, achieve credible reporting, and efficient use of public funds,” said Letsoha-Mathae

from the vice-rector of the UFS, Prof Hester Klopper, who could not attend the event “The future does not happen to us, it is something we create together”

The semifinalists were drawn out of 65 entries from accross the

country

Kiara says the highlight of her school career was being chosen as deputy head girl at Eunice “It was more than just a badge; it was confirmation that my school trusted me to lead”

Sounds set to enthral

The sound of the violin and pipe organ has fascinated audiences for centuries, and with good reason

The organ, often described as a symphony orchestra in itself, offers a vast range of tonal colours and textures through its various registrations capable of mimicking orchestral instruments or supporting the violin with rich, sustained harmonies

This pairing enables expressive freedom and sonorities that surpass what is possible with piano accompaniment

Renowned South African violinist Zanta Hofmeyr and celebrated organist Cameron Upchurch will collaborate in a concert that showcases their unique partnership

The programme, Reflections, on Saturday, 25 October, will feature a thoughtfully curated selection of well-loved classics and exciting contemporary works

Audiences can look forward to Satie’s evocative Gymnopédie, Vivaldi’s sparkling Concerto in D major, and the Adagio from Brahms’ Violin Concerto Alongside these classics will be fresh discoveries such as the lyrical Romance for violin and organ by Swedish composer Otto Olsson and the atmospheric Gothic Hymn by young American composer Daniel Ficarri

Hofmeyr graduated from the Juilliard School of Music (New York), where she studied under Dorothy Delay and Hyo Kang

Following her acclaimed New York debut at the Carnegie Recital Hall, she returned to South Africa

She is a regular soloist with major orchestras and has received numer-

ous accolades, including the Woman of the Year award (1999) and several Fiësta prizes, and has served as an adjudicator at international and local competitions Currently based in Johannesburg, she teaches violin privately and at the University of the Witwatersrand (Wits) Upchurch holds BMus and MMus degrees from the former University of Natal and the University of Durban-Westville, where he studied with Errol Slatter and Kobus du Plooy His academic focus on the music reforms of the Second Vatican Council reflects a lifelong dedication to liturgical music He has served as organist at the Emmanuel Cathedral and Holy Trinity, Musgrave Road, and is the head of Chapel Music at St John’s College, Johannesburg, as well as the director of music at the Holy Trinity Catholic Church, Braamfontein

Tickets for Reflections, to start at 19:00 in the Odeion on the main campus of the University of the Free State (UFS), cost R100, or R50 for pensioners, students and learners These are sold at the door (card only) or on quicket co za

STOLEN COPPER CABLES LAND SIX MEN BEHIND BARS

The Kroonstad Magistrate’s Court has sentenced six members of a copper syndicate five Mozambicans and one South African to five years’ direct imprisonment each The offenders are the South African Louis Lobisi (29) and Mozambicans Oracio Bila (29), Juloss Bila (35), Gift Arnold Mundlovu (40), Daniel Ernest Cossa (39) and Anthony Tamela (37) The court sentenced the men on 20 September Their conviction and sentencing were a result of the investigation by the Hawks in the Free State

WO Fikiswa Matoti, provincial spokesperson for the Hawks, said the Mozambican nationals were additionally sentenced to a fine of R1 000 each

The monetary fine is for contravening South African immigration laws: entering and remaining in the country without legal documents

Matoti said the accused had been arrested in Steynsrus on 16 January 2022 after the police found copper cables valued at R84 970 in their possession Investigation revealed the copper cables had been stolen from the Kromspruit substation

“The court found the accused guilty of tampering with essential infrastructure and theft of copper cables The court sentenced all six accused to five years’ direct imprisonment for theft of non-ferrous metals Bila, Bila and Cossa were sentenced to an additional four years for fraud and three years for forgery Each were sentenced to a fine of R1 000 or three months’ imprisonment for contravention of the South African Immigration Act,” said Matoti The court ordered that all sentences run concurrently

IN THE ESTATE OF THE

NUMBER: 831107 0637

The Department of Social Development, Bellville Local Office, is requesting Gwendolene Willemse last seen in Bloemfontein to contact the social worker, Ms. W. Witbooi at 021 940 7100 or at 107

V o o r t r

r R o a d , Bellville, during office hours (07H30-16H00) Mon-Fri. She is allegedly a close relative of a male child born during 2012.

B.J MOTHABENG NOTICE TO CREDITORS IN DECEASED ESTATES

All persons having claims against the under-mentioned estate must lodge it with the Executor concerned within 30 days (or as indicated) from date of publication hereof Late estate BENJAMIN JOHNNIE MOTHABENG, ID-no. 360107 5373 08 6, date of birth 07 JANUARY 1936, date of death 26 OCTOBER 2024 and s u r v i v i n g s p

T23169/1999 LOST OR DESTROYED DEED

Notice is hereby given in terms of regulation 68 of the Deeds Registries Act, 1937, of the intention to apply for the issue of a certified copy of Deed of Transfer T23169/1999 passed by THE EXECUTOR IN THE ESTATE OF THE LATE SIDWELL IKANENG Number 1222/1984 and surviving spouse

M A R Y I N N O C E N T I A IKANENG Identity Number 340716 0312 082

Unmarried in favour of LAYTON VUYANI PLATA Identity Number 671125 5908 08 5 Unmarried in respect of ERF 57 SELOSESHA UNIT 1, DISTRICT THABA 'NCHU, PROVINCE FREE STATE

M E A S U R I N G 7 3 5 , 8 (SEVEN HUNDRED AND THIRTY FIVE comma

E I G H T ) ) S Q U A R E METRES HELD BY DEED OF TRANSFER T23169/1999 which has been lost or destroyed.

All interested persons having objection to the issue of such copy are hereby required to lodge the same in writing with the Registrar of Deeds: F r e e S t a t e a t Bloemfontein within two weeks from the date of the publication of this notice. Dated at BLOEMFONTEIN on 20 OCTOBER 2025 APPLICANT: M A D R I E V A N HUYSSTEEN Webbers Attorneys Inc 96 Charles Street Westdene, Bloemfontein 9300 Tel: 0514301340 Email: lj@webberslaw.com

080 Date of death: 12

DECEMBER 2013

ADRESS: 10313

SIMUNDA STREET R O C K L A N D S

BLOEMFONTEIN 9323

ESTATE NUMBER: 302/2014, Notice is hereby given that the First and Final Liquidation and Distribution account will lie for inspection at the Master of the Free S t a t e H i g h C o u r t

Bloemfontein for a period of twenty-one (21) days from THURSDAY the 23rd of OCTOBER 2025. W E R N E R V E R M A A K

ATTONEYS No 1 PRESIDENT STEYN STREET WESTDENE BLOEMFONTEIN PO BOX

2 6 8 1 7 L A N G E N H O V E N P A R K 9330, TEL: 051 492 1150 EMAIL: werver@mweb.co.za

IN THE HIGH COURT OF SOUTH AFRICA ( F R E E S T A T E

BLOEMFONTEIN)

Case No: 4464/2025

Before the Honourable Judge S NAIDOO On the 02Nd day of OCTOBER 2025 In the matter between: HOLLARD INSURANCE

C O M P A N

E D APPLICANT (REG NO: 1952/003004/06) and LIDINO TRADING 563 CC RESPONDENT (REG NO: 2009/092781/23)

Having considered the documents files of record and having heard the legal practitioner for the

Gallants exuberant about long-awaited victory

Life-savinggoal atthedeath

TEBOHO SETENA

The celebration in the Marumo Gallants camp after their narrow 2 1 win over Chippa United FC in a Premier Soccer League (PSL) fixture on Sunday, 19 October, told a story of immense relief. The hosts secured this win at the Dr R P Molemela Stadium

The win brought double joy relieving the club of the immense pressure that followed a four-match winless run, as well as offering the club’s chairman, Dr Abram Sello, a gift on his birthday

The Gallants grabbed the vital winning goal at the death of the encounter when it seemed impossible considering the visible disappointment aces of the players and al team after Chippa ualised in the 87th minmake the score 1 1 isiting team from the ern Cape levelled tters after a defensive nder failed to thwart the er

However, the Gallants’ newly signed player Agnikoi Eroine brought the team back to life, scoring the all-important goal in the 95th minute to make it 2 1 and dashing any hopes Chippa had lising again connected with a taken corner, beating goalkeeper at the far st The Ivory Coastn defender inspired d celebration among eam and fans, sprint0m across the pitch to te with fans in the south after scoring with this eader at the death of the

e resembled a contendace for Olympic gold, p nting everyone, including his teammate Washington Arubi, who tried to catch him

in the process The “sprinter” was duly rewarded for his exploits on the pitch with the PSL man of the match trophy

It was the third win of the season, and the second on home turf, for the Gallants, ending the winless run The team captain conceded that the crucial moment in turning the tide was nerve-wracking

“It was indeed a bit painful, especially after they equalised, but sometimes you must go through it After all, it was about the belief today that we must win this game; we really wanted to win this game I’m happy with the team effort, especially for rising to the occasion when it seemed we were going to draw again I’m really thankful to the fans for pushing us to rise and fight to get the winning goal,” said Arubi

His sentiment about the fans inspiring the team to fight was a reference to a fan in the pavilion who was heard shouting instructions to the Gallants players, saying, “Come on guys, apply sense of agency!”

The visitors capitalised on the Gallants’ lapses in concentration to equalise, courtesy of Bienvenu Eva Nga Distress was visible among the Gallants, contemplating the prospect of the win slipping away

However, Eroine changed the course of the prevailing scenario

The Bahlabane Ba Ntwa scored first in the second half, via Christopher Sithole, who beat Chippa’s international goalkeeper Stanley Nwabali with a low strike

Did you know that if you’re already receiving an OldAge Grant, Disability Grant, or War Veterans Grant, and you cannot look after yourself because of a physical or mental condition, you may qualify for Grant-In-Aid

This is an per month, paid together with your social additional R560 grant, to help you pay someone who takes care of you full-time.

To qualify, , and you will you must not be in a state institution need your ID and a doctor’s referral letter when applying.

Remember to always update your personal details with SASSA after life changes to remain compliant

For more information, call SASSAToll-free at 0800 60 10 11 or email us at or visit our website at GrantEnquiries@sassa gov.za www.sassa.gov.za

SASSA, Paying the right social grant, to the right person, at the right time and place NJALO!