DistrictMail & Helderberg Gazette - E-Edition - 27 August 2025

GRATIS FREE

TAXI TURMOIL

Tensions escalate in Helderberg

Violence erupted in the Helderberg yesterday morning (Tuesday 26 August), claiming two lives and injuring three others just one day after the City of Cape Town appealed for calm amid escalating taxi tensions.

Two shootings in different corners of the basin followed fatal incidents in Philippi East and Khayelitsha on Monday (25 August).

According to Macassar police, officers responded to a shooting incident at the Macassar Heights taxi pick-up point on the corner of Oliver Tambo Avenue and Mandela Drive around 06:15 on Tuesday.

Two armed men allegedly opened fire at the location where numerous taxis were parked, fatally wounding a 55-year-old local resident and 54-year-old taxi driver from the greater Lwandle area in what appears to be a targeted attack. Two additional victims, including a middle-aged female bystander, were hospitalised with gunshot wounds after reportedly being caught in the crossfire.

Police recovered numerous cartridges from the scene and have registered two counts of murder and two of attempted murder, with the motive believed to be taxi-conflict related.

The suspects fled the scene in an unknown get-away vehicle and remain at large.

In a separate incident in Strand, a 34-year-old scholar transport driver was wounded in a shooting while driving along Onverwacht Road around 08:10. The female driver was taken to hospital for medical treatment.

Lwandle police are investigating a case of attempted murder.

VIOLENCE ‘DISAPPOINTING’

On Monday, the City expressed concern over escalating violence between taxi associations Cata and Codeta in Somerset West, Lwandle and the wider Helderberg area, condemning the attacks as a breach of commitments made during a Peace Summit earlier this month.

Rob Quintas, Mayoral Committee member for Urban Mobility, described the violence as “profoundly disappointing” and highlighted that a crucial scheduled meeting between Cata and Codeta leadership failed to take place due to safety fears and absent leadership.

“With no indication of when parties will next meet to resolve their disputes, tensions in the Somerset West area remain dangerously high. Dialogue, not violence,

must be the way forward,” Quintas stated.

The City views the return to violent tactics as “a serious breach of trust and goodwill” and “an affront to thousands of commuters who depend daily on safe, reliable public transport”.

In response, the City is working closely with the Western Cape Government and police to stabilise the situation, with visible law enforcement already deployed at key points.

RENEWED CALLS FOR CALM

Considering the most recent incidents, the Western Cape Mobility minister Isaac Sileku and Police Oversight and Community Safety minister Anroux Marais also condemned the attacks, issuing renewed calls for calm and extending condolences to

the affected families.

Marais described the incidents as “brutal acts of terror” that have no place in communities, while Sileku warned that the provincial government “will not tolerate the collapse of peace efforts”.

He said: “The current escalation shows that some in the industry are acting in bad faith and undermining commitments made to government and the people of the Western Cape.”

Sileku is exploring additional regulatory steps to strengthen stability and ensure accountability.

Both ministers emphasised that those choosing conflict over peace would face the full force of the law.

All relevant authorities remain on high alert across affected areas, with the public and taxi industry urged to report any threats, intimidation or criminal activity directly to law-enforcement agencies.

Somerset West police confirmed the Somerset West Public Transport Interchange has been closed as escalating tensions remain unresolved.

Police and traffic officers have been deployed to monitor the area, which has been cordoned off.

The authorities urged anyone with information that may lead to the arrest of the suspects of the Macassar shooting to contact Detective-Captain Lukhunyo Magadla on 082 411 3245, Crime Stop on 08600 10111 or MySAPS mobile anonymously.

SLP-school build restarts

Jamey Gordon

The multi-million rand high school construction project in Sir Lowry’s Pass has resumed after being stalled as a result of a labour dispute for over two years.

Last Tuesday (19 August), Ward 84 councillor Norman McFarlane expressed the community’s shared elation, announcing the joyous development after the construction project’s two-and-a-half-year hiatus.

“At long last, the difficulties with finding high school placements for learners from Sir Lowry’s Pass Village, and the attendant transport problems that plagued learners and parents will soon be a thing of the past.”

With the process now complete the site has been handed over to the new contractor.”

the contractor, government departments and local community, facilitating communication, problem solving, and helping residents access job and business opportunities created by the infrastructure project.

COMMUNITY INVOLVEMENT

Bakker emphasised the establishment of the PLC to ensure transparent and structured engagement with the community as well as strengthened project management and contract monitoring mechanisms to keep the project on track.

Open communication and community involvement will be ensured in collaboration with local residents. The department used formal community meetings to announce the project’s resumption.

He reported that the site was formally handed over to the contractor with completion scheduled for November 2026, in time for the 2027 academic year.

He said Rapid Builders was awarded the contract to complete the school construction project following the provincial governement’s stringent tender process.

Jandré Bakker, spokesperson for the provincial Department of Infrastructure, confirmed that the site was handed over to the new contractor on Monday 18 August.

This, he said, came after the contract with the original contractor was terminated, which resulted in a dispute and subsequent legal challenges. Bakker explained the dispute had to reach a level of resolution before progress could be made in terms of going to market with a new open tender to complete the works.

PROCUREMENT PROCESS

Bakker added that no modifications to the original approved building plans for the facility had been undertaken. It will be a large school that is expected to accommodate 1 110 learners.

The school building will include an administrative block, 30 classrooms, one physical science or chemistry laboratory, one biology or life-sciences laboratory, one computer room, one multipurpose classroom, one multimedia centre, a hall, ablution facilities and a sports field with two exercise slabs.

“A formal pre-site handover meeting took place on 29 July to communicate the restart of the project and introduce the newly-appointed contractor to the community,” Bakker said. “Concerns raised during these engagements were formally addressed, and the communities’ support for the project was confirmed at the site handover meeting on 18 August.”

He said the primary goal is to provide a safe, modern and well-equipped learning environment that will not only alleviate the current shortage of schools, but also grant easier access to quality education closer to home, reduce travel burdens and foster a stronger sense of local community.

More educational resources, ones that were easily accessed, has long been advocated for many in the Helderberg.

“The urgency of completing the school has always been a priority for the Western Cape Government. To resume construction a new contractor had to be appointed. An open tender procurement process was followed for the Sir Lowry’s Pass High School completion project to select this contractor.

Bakker said volunteers from the broader community are engaged by the Project Liaison Committee (PLC) and their details accepted in consultation with appointed social facilitator and Expanded Public Works Programme (EPWP) representatives. The PLC was established on Monday, in line with the EPWP policies and procedures.

The committee acts as a bridge between

“It is intended to be a hub for community activities and a symbol of investment in the future. By accommodating 1 100 learners we aim to reduce the pressure on existing schools significantly and ensure more children in the Helderberg have access to excellent education.”

‘Mr Chenin’ wins top honour

Ken Forrester, affectionately known as “Mr Chenin”, was named the 2025 Wine Personality of the Year at the Institute of Cape Wine Masters’ (ICWM) annual black-tie dinner at Beyerskloof in Stellenbosch on Saturday (23 August).

The recognition honours Forrester’s extraordinary contribution to the South African wine industry and his unwavering dedication to championing chenin blanc. As chairperson and founding member of the Chenin Blanc Association since its inception in 2000, he has been instrumental in transforming perceptions of the cultivar from a workhorse grape to one of South Africa’s most celebrated varietals.

Forrester’s vision has driven pioneering research, preservation of old vineyards and a shift from volume production to quality, while his infectious energy and global advocacy have elevated South African chenin blanc’s reputation worldwide.

The weekend’s celebrations began on Friday (22 August) with the naming of four new Cape Wine Masters (CWM) at a prestigious luncheon at Lanzerac Hotel and Spa, hosted by the Pinotage Association, Lanzerac and the ICWM. Pinotage’s 100th anniversary and the first bottled pinotage under the Lanzerac label were also marked.

Making history was Jacques Lombard, who became the first-ever blind graduate of the CWM programme. Having lost his sight at age 26 in 1996, Lombard entered the wine industry through a tasting group for visually impaired wine enthusiasts, founded by Hermann Kirschbaum. In 2016 he founded Winebrands Pty and pursued formal studies with distinction at the Cape Wine Academy. Lombard’s dissertation examined biogenic amines in wine, dispelling common myths about sulphates.

Fellow graduate Bradley Wood, a Johannesburg urologist, scored a hat-trick by receiving trophies for sparkling wine,

viticulture and research paper excellence. His dissertation explored whether South Africa’s Cape South Coast offers optimal terroir for quality Syrah production.

Riaan van der Spuy, currently cellarmaster at Swartland Winery, reviewed highaltitude viticulture internationally and in South Africa, while Janine van Zyl, a sommelier and FirstPour account manager, investigated how South African wineries can harness digital marketing and social media collaborations.

During the black-tie event Dr Winifred “Winnie” Bowman received the sixth Dave Hughes Trophy, instituted in 2020 to honour the late co-founder of the Cape Wine Academy. She was recognised for her dedication as an international and local judge, wine writer and mentor in the ICWM educational sphere.

The ICWM’s Vision 2030 programme continues advancing with three candidates who joined in 2024: Narissa Pieters (junior winemaker at Rustenberg), Kelsey Shungking (assistant winemaker at Mullineux & Leeu Family Wines) and Lerato Molekeki (Beck Family Estates Gauteng territory manager). International funding and industry partnerships ensure sustainable candidate development.

During the past year nine new candidates entered the CWM programme, bringing total enrolment to 29 students in the five-year self-study programme, the highest figure ever. Including the latest four graduates, 120 people have obtained this elite qualification in the Cape Wine Academy’s 46-year history.

The weekend’s festivities included a special Grand Pinotage tasting led by Beyers Truter, concluding with Lanzerac Commemorative Pinotage 2021, a tribute to the world’s first bottled pinotage from 1959.

Deveney-saak nou na hooggeregshof

Die saak van die 18-jarige man wat Deveney Nel na bewering op 7 Augustus 2024 by die Hoërskool Overberg vermoor het, is verlede Woensdag (20 Augustus) in die Caledon-landdroshof na die Wes-Kaapse hooggeregshof vir die amptelike verhoor oorgeplaas. Die saak het verder wye belangstelling gelok nadat die ma van die beskuldigde ’n beskermingsbevel teen twee aktiviste, die media en die skrywer van ’n boek verkry het. Die twee aktiviste is van mening dat niks hulle sal keer om die ma van Deveney te ondersteun en toe te sien dat reg sal geskied nie. “Hierdie vyf protection orders wat sy teen ons gekry het, gaan nie die aandag van die saak van haar seun wegvat nie,” het een van die aktiviste op Facebook gskryf. Die beskuldigde verskyn Vrydag 12 September in die Wes-Kaapse hooggeregshof op aanklagte van verkragting en moord. Foto: Mitzi Buys

Crime

A 32-year-old man was fatally wounded in a shooting incident in Macassar on Sunday 24 August. According to a police report the incident occurred outside the L Flats in Rubens Way at 20:50. The victim was identified as Charlton de Bruin, apparently among many attending a party. He was reportedly called aside and shot multiple

times, sustaining gunshot wounds to the face and chest. After being shot he ran to L2 number 4, where he collapsed and died. Macassar police were investigating a case of murder. No arrests had been made and the suspects remained unknown. The motive is believed to be gangrelated. Evidence recovered from the scene includes one spent 9 mm cartridge and one live 9 mm round. Anyone with information that can aid the police investigation is urged to call the Macassar Police Station on 021 857 7100.

Macassar police are also investigating a case of armed robbery after a man was robbed at gunpoint on Saturday 23 August. According to a police report the incident occurred at 18:50 on a gravel road off Kramat Road near Boys and Girls Town in Macassar.

The victim was allegedly hitchhiking home along Kramat Road toward Macassar when a Toyota Quantum minibus taxi with three unknown male occupants stopped to offer him a lift.

When the victim asked to be dropped off at his destination the driver instead turned onto a gravel road

where the two passengers grabbed him, held a knife to his head, and threatened him with a firearm while stealing his belongings.

The robbers made off with chronic medications, a black Huawei cellphone with charger, R35 in cash and a Capitec bank card before abandoning the victim in the bushes and fleeing in an unknown direction. The victim sustained no physical injuries during the incident. No arrests have been made and investigators are working to trace the vehicle with a CF registration number.

‘Gemeenskap in Blou’-opleiding by Rusthof Primêr

Die Strand- en die Somerset-Wes-polisie het Sondag 17 Augustus ’n gesamentlike “Gemeenskap in Blou”-opleidingsessie by Rusthof Primêre Skool aangebied. Altesaam 63 kursusgangers uit die Strand- en Somerset-Wes-gebied het die opleiding bygewoon. Almal kom uit verskillende gemeenskappe soos Chris Nissen-park, Lourencia-park, Garden Village en Pinkster-park. Die sessie was daarop gemik om deelnemers toe te rus met vaardighede vir hul patrolliewerk. Die ervare instrukteurs was kapt. Charles Ruffel (stasiebevelvoerder van die Somerset-Wes/Sir Lowry’s Pass-satellietstasie), AO Leonard Cloete, AO Francois Visser en sers. Rico van Deventer, wat gesamentlik meer as 127 jaar diens in die polisie het.

Hoë eer vir Alloys

Barend Williams

Brendyn Alloys het sy kindertrauma in ’n reddingsboei vir Strand se kwesbaarste seuns omgeskep en word vandag (Woensdag 27 Augustus) met die Ron Herring Mission of Service-toekenning vir 15 jaar se voorkomingswerk vereer.

“Hierdie toekenning is ’n bewys dat gewone mense deur hul optrede en diens met diep meegevoel vir die mees kwesbare in die samelewing inderdaad die katalisator vir maatskaplike verandering in ons gemeenskappe kan wees,” sê Alloys.

Die Ron Herring Mission of Service-toekenning word jaarliks sedert 1998 deur die ManKind Project toegeken en vereer mans wat hul persoonlike missies in uitstaande gemeenskapsdiens omskakel.

Die ManKind Project vier vanjaar sy 40ste bestaansjaar en is al langer as 20 jaar in Suid-Afrika aktief.

“Brendyn is die afgelope 10 jaar by die projek betrokke en help mans om hul doel te vind,” sê Nick Holleman, nasionale sentrumdirekteur vir die ManKind Project Suid-Afrika.

Holleman verduidelik dat die prys erkenning gee aan Alloys se werk in Strand, waar hy die afgelope 40 jaar woon – veral sy werk met die jeug.

“Ek is deur my grootouers grootgemaak en het sonder my pa grootgeword, soos die meeste kinders uit lae-inkomstegemeenskappe in enkelouer-huishoudings,” sê Alloys.

Sy kinderjare sonder ’n vaderfiguur het ’n diepgaande uitwerking op sy emosionele ontwikkeling gehad. “Die gebrek aan ’n positiewe manlike rolmodel kan jou lewe regtig ontwrig – veral as jy ’n seun is,” verduidelik die 42-jarige. As tiener in die vroeë 2000’s het hy by Hearts of Men, ’n organisasie wat programme vir mans en seuns gefasiliteer het, aangesluit.

Brendyn Alloys (42) ontvang vandag (27 Augustus) die Ron Herring Mission of Service-toekenning by die Novalis Ubuntu-instituut in Wynberg vir sy 15 jaar van voorkomingswerk met jong mans in Strand.

“Dié program het tot my persoonlike transformasie gelei. Ek is blootgestel aan positiewe manlike rolmodelle en mans wat sosiale vaderfigure geword en my gementor het,” sê hy.

Hierdie ervaring het die grondslag van sy huidige filosofie gelê.

“Die passie vir gemeenskapswerk is diep gewortel in my liefde vir die mensdom. Liefde is die teengif vir alle menslike lyding en ongeregtigheid. Liefde genees alles,” sê Alloys. “Dit gaan daaroor om jou trauma en pyn as katalisator vir maatskaplike verandering te gebruik.”

Voordat hy ander kon help, moes hy eers self heel word. In 2012 het hy ’n New Warrior Training Weekend voltooi, wat beduidend tot sy genesing bygedra het.

“Ek het nou die heilige voorreg om met jong mans te werk wat uit vaderlose huise kom om hul emosionele groei en welstand te ondersteun,” sê hy.

Alloys lei tans die Kaapse Wynlande se Head, Heart and Soul Rites of Passageprogram vir jong mans, met ’n fokus op jeug van Strand.

Alloys ontvang Woensdag die toekenning by die ManKind Project se tuiskomseremonie by die Novalis Ubuntu-instituut in Wynberg.

Fluit-fluit gee sy moed

Jamey Gordon

Benita Januarie van Strand is ’n vrou van vele talente, maar haar God-gegewe passie vir fluit is een wat sy openlik koester.

En of sy nou besoekers by die plaaslike hospitaal waar sy as verpleegster werk, met haar hartroerende fluitspel verras en kalmte deur die sale laat weergalm en pasiënte gerusstel, óf in haar spaartyd by geleenthede die verhoog aandurf om gehore te bekoor – haar vaardighede spreek vanself.

“Wanneer ek fluit, voel ek goed; vol selfvertroue,” deel Benita.

Met haar vriendelike geaardheid dien dié 58-jarige as bewys dat mense wat fluit, wel gelukkiger lyk. Gekoppel met haar natuurlike medemenslikheid en deernis bied sy voortdurend sorg en troos aan pasiënte.

Dié inwoner van Broadlandspark en wat op die Vergelegen-plaas grootgeword het, het haar verpleegloopbaan in 2000 begin. Sy het sewe jaar aan die Helderberg Society for the Aged se Silver Oaks Lodge-aftreeoord gewy voordat sy vir twee jaar tuisverpleging gedoen het. Benita het ’n dekade lank by Mediclinic Stellenbosch gewerk voordat sy ses jaar gelede by die Somerset-Wes-tak aangesluit het.

Vir besoekers of pasiënte wat in haar fluitpassie belangstel, deel sy graag haar liefde vir musiek, wat sy sedert die Covid-19-pandemie

met meer selfvertroue uitleef.

“Ek het nooit voorheen my fluit so gebruik soos nou nie. Ek het net saggies vir myself gefluit. Iemand het my gehoor en gesê ek moet iets gaan doen met die fluitery,” deel sy. “Ek het dit opgeneem en daarna geluister, en toe ek hoor dit klink goed, het ek besluit om verder te gaan.”

Benita se eerste liedjie wat sy met haar fluitvernuf baasgeraak het, was Frank Sinatra se “My Way”. Vandag kan sy amper enige lied in verskeie genres bemeester. “Ek doen gospel, opera, die volkslied en Kersliedjies. Ek is ook ’n Christen, dus doen ek niks sonder Hom nie. Ek vra selfs vir God watter lied ek moet fluit as ek moet gaan optree. Gepaard met die fluit doen ek ook inspirerende

toesprake. Sommige mense maak gebruik van my dienste – slegs hulle wat my erken. Dan is daar mense wat my uitlag en spot.”

Aan ander wat dalk nie haar behoefte begryp om haar fluitpassie met ander te deel nie, verduidelik sy: “Iets is vir almal in die lewe uitgesit. Jy moet dit net ontdek. Gun ook iemand anders dit wat hy van Bo gekry het. Elkeen se dag sal kom en volgens die Woord steek ’n mens nie jou talent onder die maatemmer weg nie. Jy sit dit op die staander waar almal dit kan sien.”

Volgens Benita fluit sy nie net uit pure genot nie, maar help dié passie haar ook baie om van haar probleme te vergeet – veral wanneer sy aanbiddingsliedere fluit. “My fluit help om mense gesond te hou en ek het al baie mense goed laat voel. Party mense het al gesê ek het hul dag gemaak. Ek het al by drie mense gekom wat nie meer lus gehad het vir die lewe nie. Toe hulle my gefluit hoor, het hulle weer lus gekry om voort te leef. My fluitery doen dus gewis iets vir mense.”

Benita vermaak almal met agtergrondmusiek met haar fluitspel – van volwassenes tot kinders. Sy het reeds haar talent op Heart FM, Cape Talk, Radio Helderberg en Radio Disa ten toon gestel. Hoewel sy gereeld na internasionale geleenthede en talentkompetisies uitgenooi word, verhinder ’n gebrek aan geld haar om te gaan.

Haar groot droom bly egter om ’n musiekalbum te vervaardig.

Deepfreeze kook nog

Barend Williams

Sewe maande ná die Deepfreeze-brand beweer inwoners die Stad Kaapstad en die raadslid Peter Helfrich het gefaal om huisvestingsverbintenisse na te kom.

Inwoners sê hulle het onvoldoende boumateriaal ontvang en beweer amptenare het hulle na oorstromingsgeteisterde grond in Kwilistraat, Macassar, verskuif – ’n plek wat glo ook met rotte besmet is.

Hulle beweer hulle is 25 gegolfde sinkplate, twee vensters en ’n deurkosyn belowe, maar hulle het net 16 plate, een venster en geen deurkosyn ontvang nie.

“Volgens hul beloftes het hulle niks gedoen nie. Ons het nie toilette nie, ons het nie water nie en ons het nie krag nie,” sê Mzoxolo Mbizo.

Mbizo was een van 50 mense wat haweloos gelaat is toe ’n brand op Donderdag 9 Januarie 20 strukture in Deepfreeze vernietig het. Ná voorspraak deur die Wyk-109-ontwikkelingsforum het die Stad bevestig 400 gedienste erwe sou aan die brandslagoffers voorsien word (“Plots for Deepfreeze displaced”, DistriksPos & Helderberg Gazette, 5 Februarie).

Inwoners beweer ook elektrisiteit moes geïnstalleer word en Helfrich het glo ook nie die Deepfreeze-gemeenskap ná die brand besoek nie.

Weens onvoldoende materiaal moes hulle vir nog bouvoorraad

Deepfreeze-brandslagoffers beweer die Stad het huisvestingsbeloftes gebreek. Agter (van links) staan Meagan Solomons, Mzoxolo Mbizo, Levina Tembo en Ewardo Abraham. Voor is Bemdisia Engelbrecht, Eunice Andries en Bulelani Kedama.

betaal.

Nog ’n inwoner, Bemdisia

Engelbrecht, sê sy moet by familie woon omdat die gebied nie geskik is vir haar sewe maande oue kind nie.

Net een mobiele toilet is vir alle inwoners in Kwilistraat beskikbaar en as gevolg van die gebrek aan water gaan haal hulle water by die woning van Meagan Solomons, ’n gemeenskapsleier.

“Behandel hierdie mense soos mense, nie soos diere nie,” het Solomons namens die ontheemde inwoners gesê.

Helfrich betwis egter die inwoners se bewerings dat beloftes gebreek is. “Daar was nog nooit enige ooreenkoms vir die Stad om boumateriaal te voorsien nie.

Die ooreenkoms was altyd vir die Stad om slegs gedienste erwe te voorsien,” sê Helfrich.

Hy weerspreek ook inwoners se bewerings dat hy nie sedert die

brand daar was nie en sê hy besoek die Deepfreeze-gemeenskap weekliks. Helfrich sê ook hy sal dreineringskwessies ondersoek.

“Ek wil die inwoners opreg bedank vir hul geduld en volharding oor die baie jare wat dit geneem het om hierdie belangrike mylpaal te bereik,” sê Helfrich.

Luthando Tyhalibongo, ’n woordvoerder vir die Stad, sê inwoners is van materiaal voorsien, maar bystand was beperk tot ’n oorgangsmateriaalstuk wat volgens die subsidie toegeken is.

Tyhalibongo sê die Stad is tans besig om met Eskom te onderhan del oor elektrisiteitsverbindings en met inwoners self om oplossings vir watertoegang en sanitasiegeriewe te vind.

“Die inwoners is verskeie opsies aangebied en het ingestem om sonder elektrisiteit te trek waar dit van toepassing was,” sê Tyhalibongo.

Briewe

van ons lesers | Letters from our readers

‘Do not repay evil with evil’

In response to the letter “Are we living in a bubble of fake safety?” by Emmy Holiday (DistrictMail & Helderberg Gazette, 30 July).

I was so annoyed at what you had gone through because of two young men spewing rubbish, just because they can and get away with it.

My first thought was that I wished you possessed ninja pow-

ers (Bruce Lee-style) and kicked their windpipes so they would never dare to say those hurtful words to anyone ever again.

After my anger subsided, I thought of my daily devotion, Lighten Up, by Vivienne Heath. Romans 12 verses 17 and 21 says:

“Do not repay evil with evil. Do not be overcome by evil, but overcome evil with good.” I realised I was in need of more

prayer time...

I wondered, how must God have felt about the situation you were in and my zero to 30 seconds angered response. He would not have been pleased.

I pray that God removes negativity from the past and the present, and helps people to be kinder to one another in the future.

Lorac Sparks,

STRAND

‘My heartfelt thanks to kind passersby in Somerset West’

My sincere gratitude goes to the residents of Somerset West who came to my assistance when my car stalled in Main Road during the busy morning traffic.

As an elderly lady aged 79, I found myself in a challenging situation. However, an elderly gentleman and several younger men on the sidewalk im -

mediately stepped forward to help in my time of need. The older gentleman took charge of the situation and ensured my vehicle was safely moved to a side street.

Before I could properly thank everyone involved, they had rushed off to begin their workday.

Their kindness and community spirit touched my heart deeply.

To each person who stopped to help me in this crisis, I wish to extend a heartfelt “thank you” from the bottom of my heart.

Penny Fourie, MALMESBURY

Enough talk now! Our women and children are dying

Daily I am deeply saddened by the ongoing violence against women and children in South Africa, where authorities’ promises continue to ring hollow.

While politicians boast about new legislation and specialised police units the carnage continues unabated. In just three months last year close to 1000 women were murdered and more than

10 000 rapes reported. Many women have experienced violence in their lifetime, yet we hear the same tired rhetoric about “prioritising” women’s safety. Lip service, not leadership.

Our government excels at press conferences and policy documents, but fails spectacularly at implementation. Why do women still fear walking alone? Why are

children still unsafe? We demand action, not announcements. Also, real funding for shelters, swift prosecution of perpetrators, community protection and accountability for defaulting officials. Enough talk. Our women and children are dying while politicians make speeches.

Frustrated, EMAIL

NovaNews on WhatsApp

NovaNews this week launches a WhatsApp news channel dedicated to bringing readers the most compelling local community stories from across South Africa, alongside essential national and international news updates.

The innovative news platform, which spans 21 unique community titles – including DistrictMail & Helderberg Gazette – across the country, will deliver a distinctive blend of hyperlocal journalism and broader news coverage directly to your mobile device. From community achievements in the Free State and Eastern Cape to municipal developments in the Western Cape, readers will receive authentic stories that matter at grassroots level.

Whether you’re a community leader, local business owner, or simply someone who values staying connected to your neighbourhood and the wider world, the NovaNews WhatsApp updates will keep you informed about the stories that shape our communities and country.

“We’re thrilled to bring SA’s most authentic community voices directly to our readers

via WhatsApp. Our unique approach combines the power of local storytelling with essential national coverage –it’s journalism that reflects the diversity and richness of our nation,” says NovaNews digital news editor, Lise Beyers. The channel will feature breaking news from the 21 community platforms, highlighting everything from local government decisions and community initiatives to business developments and human interest stories that showcase the spirit of South African communities.

 To sign up, simply scan the QR code to join thousands of South Africans already staying connected to their communities and more.

Farewell to a ‘true gentleman’

Jamey Gordon

Family, friends and community members gathered at Church Street Methodist church in Somerset West on Saturday (23 August) to celebrate the life of well-known resident David “Boetie” Gordon.

The beloved local and devoted family man died peacefully at home on Saturday 16 August after a long battle with dementia and Alzheimer’s disease. He would have turned 85 on 2 September.

“It has obviously been heartbreaking, but at the age of 84 he had had a good innings,” shared Marcelle, the eldest of Gordon’s three daughters. “The journey with dementia had been a difficult one the last few years and we are relieved he is finally at peace.”

She described her father as vibrant, loving and compassionate, embodying the values he strongly held, such as seeing equality and dignity as basic human rights.

“He encouraged all of us to follow our passions because he believed they were key to happiness. He taught us all people deserve to be treated with respect no matter their ‘station in life’. As father of three daughters he encouraged us to lead and be independent. He encouraged us to read and have a healthy interest in the arts, sports and politics.

“We’ve received so many messages from across the world following the news of his passing and so many from across

the Helderberg and Cape Town have visited the family home to sympathise with my mother, and they’ve all described my dad as a true gentleman who always treated everybody with respect.”

Gordon was born and bred in Somerset West. He was born on 2 September 1940 to Kathleen and Wintelbach Gordon, the fourth of five children. He grew up on the family farm located on what would later be named Gordon Road, named after his family.

ENTREPRENEURIAL SPIRIT

Gordon’s early education took place at the Wesleyan Methodist school, now Somerset West Methodist Primary School. He later attended what was then called “Gordon Hall” for high school, an institution that would eventually become Gordon High School. However, the family’s deep roots in the area were disrupted when the apartheid Group Areas Act forced them to sell their beloved family farm. Despite this setback, Gordon’s connection to the area remained unbroken. After completing his education Gordon became a civil engineer, initially working for Clifford Harris before moving to Peninsula Asphalt. His entrepreneurial spirit eventually led him to establish his own business, Gordon Siteworks, which he successfully ran with the help of his teacher wife, Rae. The couple married in 1971 and rented a home on his family’s ancestral street, Gordon Road, where they raised their family. At age 50, as

South Africa’s democratic transition began, Gordon was finally able to purchase the property he had rented. This achievement held special significance for him, representing both personal success and a reconnection to his family’s historical ties to the area.

“My father was truly a people’s person, and those in the construction industry knew him as a man who treated workers with decency and respect,” Marcelle noted.

SPORTS CHAMPION

Gordon was very involved in rugby administration through his

family’s beloved club, Hotspurs, and was recently honoured for his contribution through the sport. He was one of many rugby legends honoured, as former players, management and coaches at a rugby-heritage event at the Dr GJ Joubert Primary hall, Strand earlier this year (“Rugbylegendes vereer”, DistrictMail & Helderberg Gazette, 12 February). Acknowledging Gordon’s lasting impact on local rugby, Isadore Damons, who served with him on the Somerset Rugby Board, mentioned his service as vice-president before transitioning to coach, making

bold strategic decisions elevating the team’s performance.

His repositioning of players Irvin October and Gabriel Noble led to their South African Rugby Union team selection, while his fair coaching and genuine faith in players created a winning culture.

Gordon became the first Somerset Rugby Board coach to lead the team to a SA Cup competition semi-final. With strong attention to detail and a tendency towards calculated risks, his impact on the sport is lasting.

Historian Ebrahim Rhoda, in tribute, related how Gordon had introduced him to the Cape Slave Heritage Project, and he became a researcher at the Western Cape Archives.

Gordon is survived by wife Rae, daughter Marcelle and partner Liam, daughters Cathryn and Davina and son-in-law Donovan, and three granddaughters Mila, Sophia and Scarlett. He also leaves two surviving sisters, Sadie Fredericks and Jackie Wentzel.

Junior raadslid begin inisiatief om tienermeisies op te hef

Die junior raadslid Tatum Hector van Macassar het Saterdag 16 Augustus haar Worthy Girls Teaminisiatief van stapel gestuur om 21 tienermeisies van Wyk 109 te bemagtig. Die span het hul eerste geleentheid met die tema “Blossom Later, Bloom Greater” by die Joy Vineyard Christian Fellowship Eersterivier in Kleinvlei gehou. Die geleentheid was daarop gemik om die 13- tot 18-jarige meisies op te hef, op te voed en te bemagtig om groot te droom. Die gasspreker, pastoor Natasha Fick, het haar persoonlike storie met die meisies gedeel en met hulle gepraat oor hoe om aan hulself toegewy te bly. Sy het hulle gevra om bo enige omstandighede wat hulle in hul gemeenskappe in die gesig staar, uit te styg. Die dag was gevul met lag, liefde en vroulike kameraadskap, asook gebed. As ’n wegneemgeskenk het die meisies ’n noodpakkie ontvang wat sanitêre doekies en ander toiletware ingesluit het.

Come make a queen move

Helderberg Chess Club invites mothers and their daughters to its Raise a Strong Girl – Make the Most Powerful Opening Move chess day at Gordon’s Bay Primary School on Sunday 31 August from noon until 15:00. The event is not just about chess; it’s about confidence, connection, and community, as well as celebrating queens – on and off the board.

There will be inspiring talks by Dorothy Potgieter, titled “Moms Make Masters: Why Your Support Is the Real Opening Advantage”, and Women International

Master (WIM) Khadidja Latreche, titled “Inside the Mind of a WIM: Lessons for Life and Chess”. There will also be team chess games and children’s activities for queens of all kinds. The cost is R50 for Helderberg Chess Club members and R60 for visitors; the first 25 child bookings will receive a free ChessKid Gold Membership sponsored by Her Move Africa.  Limited tickets are available; book your place via Google Forms at https://forms.gle/HbWrf5ion1Wca2q86.

Getting an early start on awareness day

The National Council of and for Persons with Disabilities (NCPD), in conjunction with Reach Out to Others (Roto) from Macassar and Pick n Pay Waterstone, held an early Sticker Day on Tuesday 19 August. The event took place at Waterstone Village shopping mall in Somerset West to raise funds for those with special needs and create awareness for people with disabilities. Smiles were shared, creativity flowed, and hope was elevated. The event was a joyful step toward building lasting support and brighter futures for children with disabilities. Sticker Day is usually celebrated as part of Casual Day, which is held annually on the first Friday in September. This year, Casual Day will be held next Friday (5 September). Pictured (from left) is the team that made the event possible: Michelle Turner (Roto chairperson), Gerritt Rigter (PnP Waterstone manager), Ryan Machelm (Oklahoma Street Primary School), Liesle Riffle (Marvin Park Primary School), Carmen February (PnP), Jacqueline May (Roto), Anthea Robain (Roto), Lorraine Geland (Roto committee team), Anderson Mniki (health assistant at Strand Clinic), Theresa Etson (Roto), Christopher Hendricks (Roto Disabled Club), Nicolas Etson (Roto), Fundi Nondumo (health assistant at Strand, Nomzamo and Khayelitsha clinics) and Abidah Hersie (NCPD).

Winter warmers from Sunrise Rotary for Hospice

Helderberg Hospice recently received a generous gift of 30 soft, warm blankets from the Helderberg Sunrise Rotary Club. Rotary president Gail Sykes presented the blankets to Sister Thandi Sililo, head of nursing services at Helderberg Hospice, along with the dedicated home care nursing team. These blankets will be delivered directly to patients in the community who are in need of warmth and comfort during the cold, wet winter months. For many, living with the symptoms of serious illness is already a daily challenge – one that is made even harder by difficult living conditions. The thoughtful donation will help ease their discomfort and bring a measure of relief and dignity. Helderberg Hospice extends its grateful thanks to the

Sunrise

Club for their ongoing support of hospice and palliative care in the community.

(from left) are Sr Alice Belchem, Cheryl Rundle (donor liaison), Sr Gabriella Weicheld, Sr Julia Stuurman, Sr Angelique Botha, Sr Thandi Sililo, Gail Sykes and Sr Amenda Lawrence.

Soul train heads to the Cape

One of the greatest voices of our generation, eight-time nominee and two-time Grammy Award-winning jazz vocalist Gregory Porter will return to South Africa later this year to thrill local fans with a three-city arena concert tour.

Presented by Showtime Management and Griza Enterprises, the Love is King SA 2025 Tour begins at GrandWest on Saturday 12 November followed by shows in Johannesburg and Durban.

Porter has a longstanding connection with South African audiences, having previously performed at the Joy of Jazz Festival in 2014 and 2015. He captivated local audiences with his first solo and sold-out six engagement concert tour in January.

Hailing from New York, Porter is easily recognised by his signature cap and “deep booming baritone” voice. His smooth, soulful sound blends jazz, gospel, soul and blues is often likened to legends like Nat King Cole, Donny Hathaway and

Bill Withers.

The highly-talented musician, actor and recording artist is seen as a major figure in contemporary jazz music, coasting both critical acclaim and commercial success globally, especially in the UK and Europe with an extensive following across Africa. He is a distinguished modern jazz icon whose soulful voice and moving storytelling have earned him Grammys, a devoted global fanbase and a reputation as a soulful bridge between classic and contemporary music.

Comedy, dance at Playhouse

Theatre enthusiasts can enjoy two enthralling productions at The Playhouse Theatre in Somerset West over the next two months.

Dracula: A Comedy of Terrors runs from late September through early October, followed by FanTAPstic Tap Dancing Studio’s The Grinchmas Story – A Dancing SpecTAPular in mid-to-late October.

Dracula: A Comedy of Terrors reimagines Bram Stoker’s classic vampire story as a 90-minute, fast-paced parody in the style of Mel Brooks and Monty Python. The plot follows Lucy Westfeldt and Jonathan Harker as they team up with vampire hunter Dr Jean van Helsing to track down Count Dracula.

Six versatile actors bring this genderbending comedy to life with quick costume changes and clever wordplay.

Matinees are scheduled for Saturday 27 September and 4 October at 15:00, with

evening shows at 19:30 on Friday 26 and Saturday 27 September and Wednesday 1 and Saturday 4 October, including special themed evenings on Friday 26 September and Thursday 2 October.

Following the vampire comedy, The Grinchmas Story – A Dancing SpecTAPular will run from Thursday 16 to Saturday 25 October, coinciding with the FanTAPstic Tap Dancing Studio’s 10th anniversary celebration.

The high-energy tap dance adaptation of Dr Seuss’s beloved Christmas classic features the Grinch, Cindy Lou Who, and all the Whos of Whoville. Matinees run at 15:00 on Friday 17, Saturday 18, Sunday 19, and Saturday 25 October, while evening shows are scheduled for 19:30 on Thursday 16 and Friday 18, Wednesday 22 and Thursday 23, and Saturday 25 October, with a 19:00 show on Friday 24 October

 Contact the theatre venue on 061 029 0096 or secretary@theplayhouse.org.za.

In 2023 Porter released his first-ever holiday album Christmas Wish. He has hosted the podcast The Hang, a conversation series featuring his famous friends, as well as his own cooking show The PorterHouse, in which he shared recipes inspired by his local community, experiences from touring the globe, and family cooking traditions.

The concert at the Grand Arena at GrandWest starts at 20:00. Tickets, ranging from R800 to R1 500, are on sale at www.showtime.co.za or www.ticketmaster.co.za.

Chaplin’s ‘Tramp’ lives again

The Tramp is an 85-minute cabaret musical exploring Charlie Chaplin’s life through the perspective of his iconic Tramp character, running at The Drama Factory in Strand on Friday 19 September at 19:30, Saturday 20 September at 15:00, and Sunday 21 September at 16:00.

Created by the award-winning team behind Vincent – His Quest To Love and Be Loved, this production features Daniel Anderson as actor and Paul Ferreira as pianist, with direction and writing by Amanda Bothma for Wêla Kapela Productions.

The musical explores Charlie Chaplin’s life.

The musical tells Chaplin’s story through his famous alter ego, examining their symbiotic relationship from the comedian’s rise to fame through his eventual exile from America due to communist sympathies.

The Tramp character serves as both

memory and creative impulse, representing the spirit who helped Chaplin blend comedy with tragedy during cinema’s golden age. The production explores how the arrival of talking pictures sidelined the silent Tramp character, forcing Chaplin into the spotlight where his political speeches and personal scandals made him vulnerable to persecution by figures like J Edgar Hoover and gossip columnist Hedda Hopper. Using innovative audio-visuals, comedy and reimagined versions of pop, rock, jazz and musical theatre songs, the show examines the complex bond between artist and creation. Critics have praised it extensively, highlighting Anderson’s stunning one-man performance that excavates the human cost behind the world’s beloved silent clown.

Diary | Dagboek

WEDNESDAY 27 AUGUST

Gordon’s Bay: A tea-cup painting workshop is offered at the GOLDFISH CAFÉ from 18:00 to 20:30. The hands-on workshop promises to be both relaxing and inspiring. The cost is R350 per person. For bookings, send a WhatsApp message on 083 625 6622.

Strand: Aletta Francina de Kock se splinternuwe verhoog-komedie-vertoning, Effens Anders, bied ’n komiese en eerlike blik op haar huidige lewe – met al die snaakse, aweregse en bloot bisarre dinge wat daarmee saamkom. Soos altyd bring sy haar skerp humorsin en natuurlike aanvoeling vir storievertelling en laatdie gehoor met haar unieke uitkyk op die wêreld skater van die lag. Kom lag saam en ontmoet die vrou met die mooiste kuite in die land – want met Aletta is niks ooit heeltemal normaal nie… alles is altyd Effens Anders! Die vertoning is om 19:30 op die planke by THE DRAMA FACTORY. Geen onder 16’s. Besoek www.dramafactory.co.za vir besprekings.

THURSDAY 28 AUGUST

Strand: Thursday is Pensioners’ Day at SUNSET BOOKS in Beach Road. It starts with a knitting club from 10:00 to 11:00, followed by the monthly “Books & Writers” gathering at 10:30, which sees authors, poets, illustrators and publishers gather. Next up is the continuation of the series on Danie Pienaar’s book, History of Strand, from 14:30 to 15:30. Guests will revisit the history, tales and memories of Strand, its architecture and people. Admission is free, but RSVPs are required for the discussion on 068 385 2563.

SATERDAG 30 AUGUSTUS

Strand: Die NG KERK LOURENSRIVIER hou sy jaarlikse Voedselfees van 09:00. Geniet potjiekos, vetkoek, pannekoek en meer! Daar is ook ’n Tombolatafel met opwindende pryse en kindervermaak vir die hele gesin. Almal is welkom om deel te wees van die gemeenskapsviering. Skakel 021 853 5991 vir enige navrae.

Somerset West: ST PAUL’S CATHOLIC CHURCH hosts its monthly book sale from 09:00 to 12:00, featuring an exciting selection of “new” Afrikaans books alongside the usual collection of high-quality literature. There will be no book sale in September, so the August event is the last opportunity until October

Strand Library invites all knitting enthusiasts to join its new knitting club, which held its inaugural gathering on Tuesday 19 August. Members like Lily Venske (pictured), who thoroughly enjoyed working on her first knitting project, can knit one, purl one, and have fun in an engaging atmosphere alongside fellow passionate knitters and crocheters. Whether you’re a beginner picking up needles for the first time or an experienced crafter, all skill levels are welcome to stitch together new friendships and share techniques in this creative community space. The next gathering is scheduled for TUESDAY 2 SEPTEMBER from 11:00 to 13:00. For more information, call 021 444 3016.

to discover literary treasures and support a worthy cause. Visitors can enjoy tea, coffee, and a selection of eats while browsing, with the convenience of a card machine for purchases. The event also features a fundraising car wash. All proceeds from the book sale directly benefit the church’s feeding programmes. To donate books, phone Carole on 084 299 9023.

Gordon’s Bay: The GORDON’S BAY PUBLIC LIBRARY hosts a book sale at the facilityi nWatt Street, from 09:00 to 12:00. With books starting from just R1, this is the perfect opportunity for avid bookworms to discover literary treasures while supporting the local library. Remember to take cash as card payments will not be accepted. For more information, call the library at 021 400 6370.

Gordon’s Bay: Join the fundraising Potjie Competition at OLD CAPE MALL from 10:00 to 16:00. All proceeds benefit charity. Die Potjie Brigade will be serving their signature dish, “Die Lambassadeur” –slow-cooked tender lamb served with potbread and jam at R20 per plate. Refreshments will be on offer and include beverages (soft drinks R20, water R10) as well as hot drinks (coffee R15, tea R10, hot chocolate R20). Locals are implored to support this worthy cause, enjoy some local hospitality, and cheer on their favourite team while sampling delicious potjiekos.

Strand: The Strand Moslem Council’s Masjiedul Ummah Daycare & Grade R hosts a fundraising PreSpring Mini Bazaar at MASJIEDUL UMMAH HALL on the corner of Gustrouw and Hassan Khan avenues from 09:00 to 21:00. There will be a variety of stalls, indulgent foods and entertainment. Entry is free. For more information, send an email to masjieddulummah@gmail.com.

Strand: Visit SUNSET BOOKS in Beach Road for a day of art, music and more. The day starts with a greeting cards with mark-making workshop by Dalene du Plessis from 11:00 to 13:00. All skill levels are welcome and the cost of R250 per person includes materials, a slice of cake and a warm drink. Reserve

your place via WhatsApp to Dalene on 082 353 3326. While the crafters get creative, live music will set the tone from 11:00 until noon, followed by local author of The Beasts of Old, Christopher Tanser, launching his debut book from 14:00 to 15:00. Admission to the music and launch is free, but reservations for the launch is necessary via WhatsApp on 068 385 2563.

MAANDAG 1 SEPTEMBER



Strand: Die Helderberg-tak van SOLIDARITEIT

HELPENDE HAND nooi 60-plussers na ’n motiveringsgeleentheid by Strandsorg in Myburghstraat om 14:00. Die geliefde Katrienkie, bekend vir haar warm, Christelike boodskappe van inspirasie en hoop, is die gasspreker. Die geleentheid vorm deel van Helpende Hand se strewe na emosionele welstand in gemeenskappe en is daarop gemik om lig en hoop te bring. Toegang is gratis; ’n kontant-koffiekroeg sal beskikbaar wees.

DINSDAG 2 SEPTEMBER



Strand: Die HELDERBERG SENIOR KLUB nooi alle afgetredenes na sy maandelikse byeenkoms by die NG kerk Helderberg in Firmountweg. Die gesellige oggend begin om 09:00 met tee en verversings, gevolg deur samesang en ’n spesiale program om 09:30. Lede betaal slegs R10 vir tee, terwyl besoekers welkom is teen R20. Die hoogtepunt van die dag sal wees wanneer talentvolle musiekleerders van die Hoër Meisieskool Rhenish gaste met hul uitstaande musiekuitvoerings vermaak. Hierdie geleentheid bied die perfekte kans vir afgetredenes om nuwe vriende te maak, ou vriendskappe te hernu en deel te wees van ’n lewendige gemeenskap. Almal is welkom. Bel Apolonia Maritz by 021 853 7560 of 082 507 7091 vir enige navrae of meer inligting.

SATURDAY 6 SEPTEMBER

Strand: STRAND NEIGHBOURHOOD WATCH hosts a community market day at 3 Masonic Street

from 09:00 to 14:00. There will be an array of foods (pancakes, boerewors rolls, cold drinks), a popular white elephant table, and rugby viewing. Various stalls will offer home-baked goods, preserves, arts and crafts, knives, leather goods, and much more. Both cash and card payments accepted. Arrive early to avoid disappointment. For enquiries, phone Sanel Woodward on 082 706 8642.

Somerset West: The SOMERSET UNITARIAN FELLOWSHIP invites the community to a discussion titled “Beyond Dogma: Spinoza’s 5-Point Blueprint for a Rational and Meaningful Life” at the meeting room of Vonke House at 10:00. In this reflection on the work of Baruch Spinoza, a revolutionary 17th-century philosopher, guests will explore a path beyond dogma and discover his radical, rational, and deeply hopeful guide to building a more peaceful and powerful life. For more information, call Reverend Roux Malan on 084 679 5466 or visit https://swunitarians.carrd.co.

THURSDAY 11 SEPTEMBER

Somerset West: MASIKHULE, a local NPO focused on early childhood development, celebrates its 20th anniversary and invites the community to its annual general meeting at Urban Voice church in Schapenberg Road from 14:30 to 16:00. The gathering will share achievements, future plans and express gratitude for community support over the years. RSVP for the gathering is required by Monday 1 September via email on info@masikhule.org.

FRIDAY 12 SEPTEMBER

Stellenbosch: MEALS ON WHEELS holds its annual general meeting at Protea Hotel Stellenbosch at 10:30. The meeting will include voting on the organisation’s annual report, audited financial statements for 2024-’25, its budget for 2025-’26, the appointment of auditors, and the new board. To RSVP or for more information, call 021 851 6610 or 063 499 3110, or send an email to info@mealsonwheelswc.org.za.

SATURDAY 18 OCTOBER

Strand: The STRAND MOSLEM COUNCIL hosts a Legacy Gala Dinner at Strand Town Hall at 19:30 for 20:00, celebrating three milestone anniversaries: Masjidul Badr’s 75th, Jaamiah Masjid’s 50th, and Masjidul Ummah’s 25th. The evening features soulful performances and tributes. Tickets cost R350, with proceeds supporting the ongoing care of the local masjid. Call Hadj M Sadik Fanie on 072 394 6930.

Buco Somerset West Interschools 2025

Athletic and strategic prowess on display

The 2025 Winter Interschools between long-time rivals Somerset West Primary School and Gordon’s Bay Primary School brought the heat from Friday 19 to Monday 25 August in an action-packed week of sporting brilliance! Major sponsor BUCO Hardware and Building Materials Somerset West helped fuel the amazing sporting calendar-highlight that had spectators of both schools on the edge of their seats. BUCO branch manager Bertus Malan (seated centre) is proudly pictured with the phenomenal team captains who brought their A-game at the interschools, which was hosted by Gordon’s Bay Primary. Pictured are the participating schools’ team captains

are

Schools’ sharp-shooters

Buco Somerset West Interschools 2025

Somerset Primary and Gordons Bay Primary

Hockey teams hit the turf with tenacity

Sensei bring ‘eie’

styl na H’berg

Barend Williams

Die vernuftige kuns judo ontmoet Suid-Afrikaanse veerkragtigheid wanneer die ervare judoka Madré van Dalen haar eie styl na die Helderberg bring en ’n revolusionêre selfverdedigingsdojo begin, wat klassieke tachi-waza met moderne bemagtigingsopleiding kombineer.

Die dojo open Maandag 1 September sy deure vir nuwe studente by die Voortrekkersaal op die hoek van Lourensfordweg en Swallestraat in Somerset-Wes.

“Ek kombineer die tradisionele respek en tegniek van judo met praktiese selfverdedigingsvaardighede wat in werklike situasies werk,” verduidelik Van Dalen.

Die 41-jarige swartgordelhouer het haar provinsiale en nasionale kleure in judo verwerf en aan talle internasionale kompetisies deelgeneem.

Van Dalen het met judo begin toe sy agt jaar oud was nadat haar pa – ook

’n judoka – haar aan die sport bekendgestel het. “Ná daardie eerste bekendstellingsklas kon niemand my keer nie,” onthou sy.

“Ek het ná 20 jaar in die gevegskunste geleer dat tegniek net die helfte van die geveg is – die ander helfte is om innerlike krag op te bou,” sê sy.

Haar unieke benadering, wat WKR-selfverdediging genoem word, is genoem ter ere van haar pa, Kenneth Rinquest, wat in 2012 oorlede is. Sy het Life Fit in 2020 gestig en ’n dojo in Pretoria geopen voordat sy terug Kaap toe getrek het.

“Dit is waar ek my passie vir die veiligheid van vroue en kinders gevind het,” deel Van Dalen. “Almal verdien dit om veilig en selfversekerd te voel.”

Klasse sal Maandae en Donderdae aangebied word, met selfverdedigingsopleiding van 17:15 tot 18:00, gevolg deur judo-onderrig van 18:00 tot 19:00. Sy sal ook maandelikse kursusse vir volwassenes ouer as 18 aanbied.

 Bel Van Dalen by 082 700 9688 vir nog inligting oor die klasse.

PUBLIC PARTICIPATION NOTICE

APPLICATION FOR A PART 2 AMENDMENT TO THE AMENDED ENVIRONMENTAL AUTHORISATION FOR THE CONSTRUCTION OF THE HUNTSMAN B RESIDENTIAL DEVELOPMENT ON ERF 2158, SITARI, SOMERSET WEST, CITY OF CAPE TOWN

Notice is hereby given of a Public Participation Process (PPP) in terms of the National Environmental Management Act, 1998 (Act No 107 of 1998) (NEMA), as amended and the Environmental Impact Assessment (EIA) Regulations, 2014 (as amended).

Proposal: This application is for a Part 2 Amendment in terms of the EIA Regulations, 2014 (as amended), to the Amended Environmental Authorisation (EA) issued on 11 May 2023 (Ref: 16/3/3/5/A3/16/2046/22 (B)) for the construction of the Huntsman B residential development on Erven 1714, 1749, 1750 and 2113, Sitari. The amendment seeks to revise the approved layout and increase both the number of residential units and the associated parking provision.

Location: The site Erf 2158 (previously Erven 1714, 1749, 1750 and 2113), Sitari, lies adjacent to Macassar Road between the R102 and N2, and is traversed by the Moddergatspruit River

Applicable Listed Activities: In terms of Listing Notice 1 (GN No R.983, as amended): Activities 9, 12, 19, 24, and 28; and

Listing Notice 3 (GN No R.985, as amended): Activities 4 and 14.

Applicant: Balwin Properties Ltd. Exemptions/Deviations: None applied for

Comment Period: The Part 2 Amendment Report will be available for public comment for a period of 30 days from Friday 29 August 2025 to Monday 29 September 2025. The report can be accessed online at https://w w w dougje�.co.za or by scanning the QR code below Those unable to access the report online may contact Doug Je�ery Environmental Consultants (DJEC) for assistance during o�ice hours

Junbukan-studente kry nuwe gordels

Studente van die Junbukan Karate-dojo in Strand het onlangs hul graderingtoets suksesvol afgelê en na hul nuwe gordels gevorder. Nuwe lede is welkom om by die dojo aan te sluit. Kontak sensei Stefan via WhatsApp by 079 849 5291 vir nog inligting.

Macassar

karatekas showcase their skills

Students of the Macassar Community Shotokan Karate Club participated in the Gichin South Africa All-style Karate Tournament on Saturday 9 August. The young karatekas’ hard work and discipline paid off, as they brought home 10 medals. Pictured with some of the participants is sensei Bennie de Swartz (seated, left).

A performance management system assists the City to monitor service delivery progress. The City of Cape Town’s Organisational Performance Management (OPM) System consists of various phases that depicts the process of planning, monitoring, evaluation, reviewing, reporting, auditing and oversight in the City The City is currently in the process of reviewing the OPM system and invites communities to participate in this process which is done in accordance with the following legislation:

• Sections 34(a) and (b) of the Municipal Systems Act that requires a municipality to review and amend its integrated development plan (IDP) annually which includes various fiveyear scorecards;

• Section 41 which requires that a municipality must measure and review performance at least once a year; and

• Section 42 which requires that a municipality must involve the local community in the development, implementation and review of the municipality s performance management system and, in particular, allow the community to participate in the setting of appropriate key performance indicators and performance targets for the municipality

In terms of section 17 of the Local Government Municipal Systems Act 32 of 2000 the public and interested parties or groups are given the opportunity to submit comments, recommendations or input to the municipality by 17 October 2025.

Comment, inputs and recommendations in respect of the Annual Review of the Organisational Performance Management System can be submitted by:

• Email: Performance.Management@capetown.gov.za

• Internet: www.capetown.gov.za/haveyoursay

• Written submissions: Drop off at subcouncil offices

The City’s Public Participation Unit will assist those who cannot read or write, live with disabilities or who are from disadvantaged groups and unable to submit written comments. Contact the Public Participation office on 0800 212 176 or public.participation@capetown.gov.za.

Enquiries relating to the annual review can be directed to Mzwamadoda Coto at Mzwamadoda.Coto@capetown.gov.za.

Opportunity to Participate: Interested and a�ected parties (I&APs) are invited to register and comment on this proposal. To submit a comment, I&APs must provide their name contact details and preferred method of communication in writing to the contact person indicated below I&APs must also disclose any direct business financial, personal, or other interest they may have in the proposal I&APs are encouraged to register early in the PPP to ensure they are kept informed. Furt her communication regarding the process will be sent to registered I&APs only Any person unable to read or write or needing assistance to submit their comments on the proposal, may request assistance from a DJEC sta� member Please contact DJEC to schedule an appointment during o�ice hours COMMENTS MUST BE SUBMITTED BY MONDAY, 29 SEPTEMBER 2025. Doug �e�ery Environmental Consultants Contact person: Adél Groenewald Email: adel@dougje�.co.za P O Box 44, Klapmuts, 7625 Tel: 021 875 5272 QR Code

Avid trail runners and walkers are invited to celebrate the end of the winter months with the Change of Season Trail Run, presented by Sportsmans Warehouse, at L’Avenir Wine Estate just outside Stellenbosch this Sunday (31 August). Participants will enjoy scenic vineyard and orchard trails, with a choice of a 6 km (R165) or 11 km (R195) route. The shorter option is ideal for beginners and families, while the longer course offers a fun challenge with some flowing single-track. Registration opens at 08:15, with the long route starting at 09:00 and the 6 km event at 09:15. All finishers will receive a medal, and there will be refreshment stations, coffee from 08:00, food stalls, live timing and lucky draws. After the run, participants can relax at the dam with L’Avenir’s award-winning wines and enjoy the farm’s family-friendly atmosphere. Children under-18 pay just R65 for pre-entries. Online entries at www.dirtopia.co.za close on Friday 29 August. For enquiries, send an email to info@dirtopia.co.za or a WhatsApp message to 078 343 3572.

Crunch time for local clubs

Tasmin Cupido

Rugby clubs in the Helderberg are reaching the business end of their seasons, with some already having closed off their 2025 campaigns in the various Western Province leagues.

Seven clubs from the 10 in the basin are still in action in coming weeks. Helderberg, Macassar and Strand RFC have all signed off their respective league campaigns, and will remain in the same leagues in the 2026 season.

In Super League A, stragglers St George’s are set to travel to Claremont to face Villager in their final league encounter at Brookside. The date of the outing was not available at the time of going to print.

The Lulu Boys have had a season they would want to forget, having lost 12 of their

All Saints to fly the flag in play-offs

matches and only claiming victory in one. The team from Strand, who face certain relegation to Super League B next year, will be looking to overturn their fortunes against Villager to end their season on a positive note, but they will need to pull a rabbit out of the hat to claim the spoils against the second-placed home side .

In Super League C, 13th placed Strand United hold their fate in their hands, as they travel to Lansdowne to face fifthplaced Violets at Chukker Road Sport Grounds on Saturday (30 August). A victory for United will secure their place in the top-flight next season, while defeat will see them relegated to the Northern League. All Saints are already in the Super League C play-offs, ending their regular

season in second place to secure an automatic place in the semi-finals on Saturday 13 September. The Somerset West charges will play the winners of the quarter-final encounter between Rangers and Violets, on Saturday 6 September.

In the Promotion League, Sir Lowrians hosted Rocklands in Sir Lowry’s Pass on Saturday (23 August). The Navy Train managed to claim a vital 26-12 victory to keep their promotion hopes alive. They now occupy third place on the log with 17 points, but have played one match more than fourth-placed Morningstar (16 points).

Sir Low will not have a chance to change matters as they have a bye this weekend.

Raithby United will look to continue their dominant run in the league this

week, when they travel to the northern suburbs to lock horns with sixth placed Elsies River United. A bonus-point victory could see RU take the top spot on the log, dependent on the outcome of the current log leaders Watsonia Warriors’ outing against Morningstar.

In the Challenger Cup, Gordon’s Bay Pioneers will be in action this weekend, when they host Suburban in a Pool B match at the Naval Sport Grounds on Saturday. The home side, currently in the fourth place on the log, will be looking to glean maximum points, in the hopes of possibly securing a spot in next month’s play-offs.

GB Pioneers advancement to this stage is dependent on the outcomes of matches of the three teams above them on the log. Faure RFC is also still in action in Pool C of the Challenger Cup. They will look to claim victory when they travel to Stellenbosch to lock horns with Blakes.

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