DistrictMail & Helderberg Gazette - E-Edition - 1 July 2026

Barend Williams

Population growth and crime statistics support claims of a policing crisis at Lwandle Police Station made during last month’s oversight visit by Benedicta van Minnen, chairperson of the provincial parliament’s Standing Committee on Police Oversight.

On Tuesday 2 June, Van Minnen, who is also the DA’s spokesperson for Police Oversight and Community Safety, conducted an unannounced visit to Lwandle Police Station. She claims to have found just 17 detectives carrying an average of 141 cases each, with one officer for every 926 residents in a precinct grappling with murder, robbery, drugs and gender-based violence (“Lwandle’s policing shortfalls exposed”, DistrictMail & Helderberg Gazette, 10 June).

“The visit to Lwandle was informed by the fact that it is a very rapidly growing area and the [statistics] cited by the police themselves are probably already out of date.”

DistrictMail & Helderberg Gazette assessed Statistics South Africa census data and the latest police crime statistics to examine the extent of the said “crisis”.

The 2022 census indicated Lwandle is the biggest policing precinct in the basin, serving 125 925 people, with its largest age demographic being between 30 and 34.

Population in the areas serviced by the police station had also monumentally increased. Ward 86 (Lwandle and the central and eastern residential grids of Nomzamo), which had 31 523 people in 2011, saw its number rise to 48 570 in 2022, and Ward 85 (Greenways, Asanda Village, Asla Park, Rusthof, Onverwacht and the north-eastern section of Strand

above Broadway Boulevard), for which the police station shares policing duty with its Strand counterpart, more than doubled from 45 929 to 93 829.

This is an increase of 54% for Ward 86, while Ward 85 saw a 104% increase.

Van Minnen also claimed Lwandle had the highest contact-crime figures in the basin. The fourth quarter of the 2025’26 policing statistics, covering January to March, showed 20 murders ranked the precinct 16th provincially; 17 cases of attempted murder ranked it 22nd in the Western Cape; two attempted sexual offences ranked it 12th; 15 cases of rape ranked it 18th; and five sexual assaults ranked it 26th in the province.

Van Minnen believes crime is a direct result of the resources available to the precinct. She called on the police and national government to upgrade Lwandle to a Colonel station and allocate additional personnel and vehicles. A “Colonel sta-

tion” (Category C1) requires a minimum of 181 personnel and a maximum of 360, according to the police’s Theoretical Human Resource Requirements framework.

“The police station itself is not fit for purpose, being a repurposed RDP house surrounded by prefab structures,” Van Minnen pointed out. “It has no proper [holding] cells and staff are operating out of leaking sheds.”

She explained that in terms of policing best practice there should be at least double the detectives with a caseload of no more than 80 cases each. “Hence you can see that the resources need investment.”

Van Minnen has formally submitted a report to the provincial Department of Police Oversight and Community Safety, and the Western Cape provincial parliament has passed her motion on the resourcing crisis, including the need for a proper police station building.  Continues on page 2.

Heritage house now eyesore

Yaseen Gaffar

More than two years after a controversial proposal by the City of Cape Town to demolish two historic derelict buildings at New Street Park was fiercely blocked by heritage authorities, the site has degenerated into a severe community-security crisis.

In February 2024 the City’s Department of Recreation and Parks attempted to obtain a permit from Heritage Western Cape (HWC) to flatten the structures, which are more than 60 years old, citing escalating maintenance costs and safety risks (“Proposed demolition plan slammed,” DistrictMail & Helderberg Gazette, 14 February 2024).

However, following strong pushback from the community and local heritage bodies, who demanded the structures be saved and repurposed, the HWC committee ruled against demolition, ordering the City to seek alternative uses for the local assets.

Today those very buildings stand completely abandoned, rapidly deteriorating and stripped of the very security that is meant to protect them.

When DistrictMail and Helderberg Gazette visited and inspected 24 New Street, the property revealed a shocking scene of neglect. An individual openly climbed through a broken window to enter the dilapidated heritage site.

The person, who identified himself as Jason Keanu, painted a bleak picture of the building’s current function as an illicit, unmanaged overnight shelter.

“It’s cold and raining, and we have nowhere else to go,” he said. “There are up to five or six homeless people sleeping inside the building every night for the past week. The guards do not trouble us or chase us away.”

NO SECURITY

Desperate neighbours say the reason “the guards” are not troubling them, is that they do not exist. Despite recent official confirmations that 24 New Street is a registered Recreation and Parks asset requiring a dedicated, 24-hour on-site security presence, residents reported that security personnel have been absent for over a week.

The total breakdown in perimeter control has forced local homeowners to personally police the property to prevent it from being permanently occupied.

According to a formal complaint submitted by an outraged Helderberg resident, the situation reached breaking point last Monday morning (22 June).

Around 07:00, residents discovered two vagrants on the front stoep of the building. Another three persons had to be chased out of the actual security guard’s room where they had spent the night sleeping.

No municipal security guards were on site during the incident.

Locals report that individuals are routinely entering the property to consume alcohol, while ride-share drivers have turned the exterior of the historic building into an open area for public urination.

SQUATTERS WILL HAVE RIGHTS

“The community is deeply concerned that, if a permanent security presence is not immediately restored, occupying the property will be untenable,” the resident warned, pointing out that legal evictions are notoriously lengthy and difficult once squatters establish a foothold.

The Helderberg Renaissance Foundation (HRF), which spear-

headed the initial 2024 campaign to save the buildings, has expressed absolute dismay at the City’s inaction.

Rob Young-Pugh, a HRF committee member, confirmed that more than two years had passed since it had successfully blocked the subcouncil’s demolition plans. At the time fellow HRF member Annemie Vermeulen had proactively compiled and submitted a comprehensive list of alternative community-driven uses to restore and preserve the space, ranging from commercial leases to local workshops.

Frans van den Heever of the Friends of New Street Park had similarly championed a proposal

to turn the buildings into a workshop for a local NPO’s cycling academy.

Since submitting those proposals, the HRF reports a wall of bureaucratic silence.

“The HRF has heard nothing more. The building remains unoccupied and has now deteriorated further,” Young-Pugh said.

“The City is the custodian of the building and responsible for the identification and management of Grade 3 (local level) heritage resources, in terms of Section 8(4) of the National Heritage Resources Act. It should, therefore, advise on progress in the adaptive reuse of the building as instructed by HWC.”

Approached for comment regarding the complete absence of security, the rise in vagrancy, and the failure to implement the HWC’s directive for adaptive reuse, the City was unable to collate a full, comprehensive response in time for print.

“The City is looking into the matter and will respond once the information is collated and verified,” it said.

 Continues from page 1.

“It is something I will continue to push as the people of Lwandle deserve the same levels of service as other areas,” she said, reiterating the DA’s call for expanded police powers to be granted to municipal and provincial authorities, specifically within the City of Cape Town.

(jamey.thomas@novusmedia.co.za)

Provincial police declined to respond to a extensive enquiry, stating that information about resource deployment, staffing and crime-combating strategies is not publicly disclosed as a matter of policy and operational security. They further stated oversight visits to police stations and discussions and outcomes relating to such engagements are not intended for public debate through the media.

Colonel André Traut, provincial police spokesperson, said resources are continuously assessed. “We wish to assure the communities of the Helderberg that all available resources are optimally utilised to provide an effective policing service.”

In October last year Lwandle received additional crime-prevention support when the City introduced Neighbourhood Safety Officers (NSOs) to the Helderberg, with the basin receiving more than 30 dedicated NSOs (“New frontline against crime”, 8 October 2025). But JP Smith, Mayoral Committee member for Safety and Security, clarified that NSOs were deployed by municipal ward rather than policing-precinct boundaries, with four constables and one sergeant per ward.

He said NSOs liaise with police as needed, but operationally their work is based on complaints received by each community to the City’s Public Emergency Call Centre.

The City also has a Law Enforcement Advancement Plan (Leap), but no officers from this programme are operating in the Helderberg. “Leap officers are not deployed based on police resources, but rather on crime statistics and in consultation with police,” Smith pointed out.

While Lwandle’s resource shortfall is the current focus, other stations in the Helderberg face its own challenges.

“As for the Helderberg, I have previously visited Gordon’s Bay Police Station, and it also has requirements that need to be met, but it is not as critical as Lwandle. It has different needs and priorities,” Van Minnen pointed out.

Cherishes the roots that made him

Jamey Gordon

For South African households tuning into SABC2 every Sunday evening, Branwin Philander has become a familiar face in the telly.

For Helderberg locals, however, the celebrated contestant on The Taste Master Professionals is far more than a television personality; he is one of their own, proudly flying the flag in pursuit of the ultimate title.

The South African film-and-television award-winning reality show unites 10 of the country’s finest chefs who go head-tohead in the first professional edition of the much-loved series, each vying for a prize package worth more than R800 000, including a coveted position at the new Taste Master Kitchen and Deli in Paarl.

Under the guidance of celebrated chef Bertus Basson and an esteemed panel of guest judges the competitors are pushed to their limits in a series of demanding culinary showdowns.

For Philander the stakes extend far beyond the competition itself. The 33-year-old chef from Macassar carries a deeply personal motivation into every challenge, one rooted in survival.

Just over two years ago a serious car accident left him unable to stand or walk for weeks, also having to wear a neck brace for months. He is still in recovery. What makes his story all the more remarkable is that he never set out to enter; he was approached. “The pain was immense. I thought my career as a chef was over. I just want to prove to myself that I’m still able to pursue my dream and opening a restaurant is still possible, that my injuries will not limit me from doing what I love. Now I focus on managing my injuries and making sure I don’t overdo it.”

Walking into the competition kitchen for the first time, Philander was buzzing with anticipation.

“It was a great opportunity to showcase what I’m about as a chef, what I’ve learnt over the years,” said the passionate cook, whose ultimate ambition is to open his own eatery.

The constant presence of cameras initially tested his focus, but he adapted quickly. “It became second nature,” he recalled. “I did really well with cooking and explaining to the camera what I was preparing.”

Asked what had surprised him most, Philander was candid: he would have preferred individual challenges from the outset and believes the competition could push contestants harder, giving them greater room to showcase their technique and skill.

When pressure mounts he relies on calm and preparation, planning thoroughly, testing repeatedly and never losing sight of his objectives. “Test and test until you are happy with the results

before execution.”

Away from the heat of the kitchen, the camaraderie among contestants has been one of the competition’s unexpected highlights. “We all grew close very quickly and found out we have a lot in common. Our upbringings have a lot of similarities,” Philander said.

He was proudly raised in an “Ou Skiem” household where food was central to family life from an early age. His mother cooked a variety of dishes with whatever she had at her disposal, but it was her pasta and curries that left a lasting impression.

With his fisherman father, fish was a staple on the family table with flavours of home shaping his culinary identity for years to come.

By the age of seven Philander knew he wanted to be a chef, and it was in his mother’s kitchen that the dream took root. “Helping her cook made my passion for food grow and flourish from a very early age. I live and breathe food every day, constantly thinking of how to be more innovative, creative and different.”

Across a career spanning just over 13 years food has been more than a profession, it has been a lifeline. “It has been my saviour, lifting me out of depths of despair and sadness. When I cook, I forget everything and just do what I love.”

At home his children remain his most loyal audience, with pasta and warm, hearty dishes the firm family favourites, a quiet echo of the flavours their grand-

mother once placed on the table.

A good sandwich or a gourmet burger and chips are Philander’s go-to meals, but when it comes to sweet versus savoury, his answer is more layered.

“My passion started with baking and desserts in my mom’s kitchen, before growing into savoury cooking once I entered professional kitchens,” he said.

Philander holds diplomas in both Culinary Arts and Patisserie at Level 2, the latter earned during his internship at The Lord Charles Hotel in Somerset West.

Salt and herbs are non-negotiable in his kitchen. Frozen ingredients, however, are another matter entirely. “Fresh is best.”

And boy, does he mean it. The chef, it seems, never really clocks out. A family gathering or quiet evening at home inevitably ends with Philander at the stove, spoiling his daughters and road-testing new ideas on his most honest critics.

As for seeing dad on television, the family could not be prouder. “Win or lose, they are proud of me. I have worked hard all my life and deserve this opportunity.”

His mother, whose kitchen first lit the flame, is proudest of all.

Before the kitchen claimed him, rugby was his first love. “I was really good at it, but once I stepped into the kitchen I never played again. The passion for food took over.”

Had cooking not called, he may have become a vet or joined the navy.

One dream above all drives him: his own restaurant. “I will strive to open one before I take my last breath!”

For Philander, it is about legacy as much as ambition. “When one works for

someone, the praise goes to the owners. I want to be known for what I put in.” His advice is hard-earned. “You are not limited to your environment. Trust yourself, surround yourself with the right people and don’t be scared to take risks. Put in the work now and pick the fruits later.”

He closes with gratitude for family, friends, strangers and the Macassar community. “My mom has been my inspiration, my dad an excellent role-model and to my aunties who helped raise me, I was a handful,” he said with much warmth.

Tiener afgemaai

Die Strand-polisie ondersoek ’n saak van moord nadat ’n tienerseun in ’n skietvoorval om die lewe gebring is.

Dié 16-jarige is die afgelope Saterdagaand (27 Junie) in Rusthof dood aangetref nadat die polisie teen ongeveer 19:15 ’n klagte oor ’n skietery in Titusstraat ontvang het. Die polisie het met hul aankoms die jongman op die teerpad aangetref met ’n enkele skootwond aan sy linkerslaap. Hy is later deur sy ouma uitgeken.

Geen getuies het tot dusver na vore gekom nie, geen verdagtes is geïdentifiseer nie en geen koeëldoppies is op die toneel gevind nie.

Die motief is tans onbekend en niemand is in hegtenis geneem nie.

Die gemeenskapsleier Brent Louis, wat ’n video-boodskap van die toneel af gedeel het, het sy meegevoel aan

die familie betuig en ’n beroep op die gemeenskap gedoen om saam te staan.

“Dit is hartverskeurend om te sien hoe jongmense teen mekaar draai. Ons moet mekaar opbou – nie lewens verloor aan geweld nie,” het sy Facebook-inskrywing by die video gelui.

“Dit is genoeg. Ons moet saamstaan teen geweld en saamwerk om ’n veiliger omgewing vir ons kinders en gesinne te skep.”

Louis het enigiemand wat belangstel om ’n gemeenskapsforum-, buurtwag- of Gemeenskap-in-Blou-inisiatief te help vestig of daarby aan te sluit, aangemoedig om hom te kontak. “Saam kan ons ’n positiewe verskil maak en ons gemeenskap beskerm.”

. Enigiemand met inligting oor die voorval word versoek om die Strand-polisie by 021 854 9100 of Misdaadstop by 08600 10111 te skakel.

Men in blue recognised for two decades of service

Four Somerset West police officers were recognised for two decades of service during a parade at Bishop Lavis Police College last Thursday (25 June). Sergeants Luncedo Gqokoma, Jeremy Fourie, Elton Isaacs and Juan Fourie received their 20-year service medals at the ceremony, presided over by outgoing provincial police commissioner Lieutenant-General Thembisile Patekile. Officers who have served 20, 30 and 40 years were awarded medals, while others were promoted and presented with their new ranks.

Abalone shipment intercepted along Clarence Drive

Law enforcement officers intercepted a vehicle transporting illegally harvested abalone along the scenic Clarence Drive in Gordon’s Bay, resulting in the arrest of two suspects and the seizure of 743 units of abalone. The City of Cape Town’s Marine and Environmental Unit acted on a tip-off last Wednesday (24 June), joining forces with Gordon’s Bay police and Gordon’s Bay Security (GBSec) armed response to intercept the suspicious vehicle. During the search, officers discovered the abalone, believed to have been possessed and transported in contravention of marine resource legislation. Two suspects, a man and a woman, were arrested and charged in terms of the Marine Living Resources Act. The recovered abalone was seized as evidence and the suspects detained for further investigation.

Assault and vandalism at Stone Street shop

Four suspects aged 19, 28, 33 and 33 are expected to appear in the Somerset West Magistrates’ Court on charges of assault with intent to cause grievous bodily harm and malicious damage to property following an incident at a shop in Stone Street, Lourensia Park, on Saturday (27 June). It is alleged that four men entered the shop around 11:00. Three people were present in the shop at the time. The circumstances surrounding the incident and the motive are still being established as part of the ongoing investigation. When police arrived on the scene, three individuals were found with open wounds and transported to hospital for medical attention. Cases of assault with intent to cause grievous bodily harm and malicious damage to property have been registered. Police are actively monitoring the Somerset West area to prevent similar incidents from occurring.

Somerset West left in the dark

Yaseen Gaffar

What was supposed to be a routine, 12-hour planned electricity interruption for critical infrastructure upgrades turned into a gruelling, freezing weekend ordeal for Somerset West residents, after the restoration timeline blew past its deadline by nearly eight hours.

The outage was initially scheduled to run from 18:00 on Saturday 27 June until 06:00 on Sunday 28 June but was only restored late Sunday afternoon.

Over two dozen areas were plunged into darkness, including Heldervue, Bel’Aire, Helderberg Village, Somerset Ridge, Spanish Farm and Lynn’s View. While locals were advised beforehand to switch off appliances to mitigate power surge damage, few expected to be left without heating or electricity deep into Sunday afternoon as the bitter Cape winter took its toll.

As Sunday morning progressed amid rising frustrations, communication channels were flooded.

In an official electricity notice released at 13:05 on Sunday, the City of Cape Town acknowledged experiencing exceptionally high call volumes from affected residents.

According to municipal officials, the delay was compounded by a combination of severe weather and underlying grid complications, including dangerous field conditions due to the ongoing wet and windy weather.

This drastically slowed down faultfixing times as performing high-voltage electrical work under these conditions posed severe safety hazards to technicians. The City revealed that unforeseen

damage to the infrastructure meant that “quick fixes” were simply not possible.

The Helderberg area wasn’t alone in its blackout as identical critical maintenance overruns were reported in Muizenberg and Far South areas, pushing restoration times out to 18:00 on Sunday.

While the City apologised for the inconvenience and assured residents that teams were working as fast as possible, the standard bureaucratic response did little to warm the homes or tempers of local ratepayers.

For many Somerset West locals, the weekend’s failure highlights a deeper, systemic issue regarding how infrastruc ture projects are managed in the area. One angry Heldervue resident levelled heavy criticism at the City’s planning capabilities, noting that the suburb’s power supply issues have been neglected for far too long.

“It has been known for some years that the power supply here in Heldervue needs serious maintenance and that such work has been put off. Unlike repairs due to breakages, routine maintenance and repairs to neglected services virtually always, when the system is opened up, reveal more work than was originally realised. Was there proper planning by experienced crews for undertaking this work in the middle of the Cape winter that caused a nearly 20-hour outage at my home? The communication was pathetic and a routine ‘apology for inconvenience caused’ is simply not good enough. Electricity is a significant cost on many people’s budgets these days and we are at least entitled to the truth.”

The City has reminded residents still experiencing localised outages in Eskomsupply zones to log their service requests directly with the power utility.

CITY OF CAPE TOWN’S 2026/27 APPROVED BUDGET, APPROVED REVIEW OF THE INTEGRATED DEVELOPMENT PLAN (IDP) AND APPROVED AMENDMENTS TO THE 2022-2027 IDP (2026/27 AMENDMENTS), INCLUDING CHANGES TO THE CORPORATE-, MUNICIPAL ENTITIES- AND CIRCULAR 88 (C88) SCORECARDS

Notice is hereby given in terms of the Local Government: Municipal Systems Act No 32 of 2000, the Municipal Finance Management Act No 56 of 2003 and the Municipal Property Rates Act No 6 of 2004, that the City’s approved review of the IDP, approved amendments to the 2022-2027 IDP (2026/27 amendments), including changes to the Corporate, Municipal Entities and C88 Scorecards: setting and reviewing of appropriate key performance indicators and performance targets for the municipality and approved Budget for 2026/27 inclusive of the budget related policies are available at the municipality’s head office municipal libraries and all Subcouncil offices

The documents can also be accessed through our website at www capetown.gov.za/ budget.

The following table contains venues where the approved review and amendments to the IDP and approved Budget document are available for perusal: Subcouncil Offices Click on: web1.capetown.gov.za/web1/councilhubonline/ subcouncilmanagers

All Libraries Click on www.capetown.gov.za/libraries Cape Town Concourse, Civic Centre, Hertzog Boulevard, Cape Town South Peninsula Municipal Offices, cnr Main and Victoria Roads, Plumstead

NB: Information provided is an extract from the approved Tariffs, Fees and Charges Book For the full version consult Annexure 6 of the 2026/27

1.

2. CONSUMPTIVE TARIFFS AND CHARGES

2.1 WATER AND SANITATION

After the high court ruling regarding the usage of property value bands to allocate fixed basic charges, it has been necessary to find an alternative mechanism as the basis for customers to share the infrastructure cost. The city has therefore reverted to the previous criterion of the nominal bore related to the meter size. As is the case with non-domestic properties, this will be applicable for both water as well as sanitation fixed charges. As less revenue overall will be charged for fixed basic charges, consumption charges will increase for higher consumption users compared to the March tabled budget. Five levels of tariffs are approved for the 2026/27 financial year The approved tariffs align with projected sets of consumption levels. Although the average approved increase remains at 4.5% for the level water wise (no restriction) tariffs (approved for implementation from 1 July 2026), as well as the level 1, level 2, level 3 and level emergency tariffs, the required change in the tariff structure means that individual customers will experience variable impacts to their water and sanitation accounts. Tariff increases are predominantly to ensure sustainable and resilient provision of water budgetary provision for the New Water Plan (which includes initiatives to further invest in the underground extraction of water from aquifers and re-use scheme); Upgrades and extensions to the wastewater treatment plants; Ongoing investment in upgrading and rehabilitation of assets to adhere to compliance standards; Continued investment in asset replacement programmes to ensure proper asset management, with specific focus on sewer and water network replacement as well as the upgrading of sewer pump stations; Water demand management initiatives to optimise the use of water sources, sustain and enhance the maintenance programs as well as supplying water and sanitation services at appropriate compliance, capacity, skills, service delivery and responsiveness levels. Allowance is also required to smooth the tariff increases for when the additional operating cost for major new resource projects comes on line.

Below are the approved 2026/27 level water wise (no restriction) tariffs to be implemented from 1 July 2026 for Water: 2026/27

Pa, seun vra hulp

Die Strandse pa en seun, wat albei brose bene het, het verlede maand ’n motorongeluk oorleef, maar nou staar hulle teen die koste om vir hul te sorg te betaal en vra nou die gemeenskap om in te spring en hul finansieël tehelp.

Toufeeka Beukes se seun Junaid (20) en sy pa, Enrico Plaatjies (44), was Saterdag 13 Junie op die hoek van Elfdestraat en Broadlandspad in ’n botsing (“Pa en seun beseer”, DistriksPos & Helderberg Gazette, 17 Junie). Albei ly aan osteogenesis imperfecta

(OI), ’n genetiese afwyking wat veroorsaak dat bene maklik breek.

Toe ’n swart Mitsubishi teen hul blou Volkswagen Citi Golf bots, het Enrico sy tong amper afgebyt en sy kakebeen en bene gebreek, terwyl Junaid sy regterheup ontwrig en sy linkerarm gebreek het.

Hulle is summier na die Tygerberg-hospitaal vir noodsaaklike mediese behandeling vervoer. “Enrico het verlede week ’n operasie ondergaan en Junaid het Maandag (22 Junie) ook vir een gegaan,” verduidelik Beukes.

Sy weet dit is net die begin weens hul OI en kyk nou uit na wat volg. Die herstelproses vereis voortdurende sorg van haar, waarvoor sy gereed is. Dit is die finansiële vereiste wat haar bekommer, aangesien Beukes tans werkloos is. Dit is waarom sy ’n BackaBuddy-veldtog van stapel gestuur het en nou ’n beroep op die gemeenskap doen om te help. . Vir meer inligting oor hoe om betrokke te raak, bel Beukes by 073 442 4715 bel of besoek gerus die BackaBuddy-veldtog, “Plaatjies Campaign”, aanlyn.

Urban Waste management Tariff Policy:

• Item 7.1.2.2 - Refuse Removal: Formal Households (excluding Sectional Title Schemes) – receive a rebated waste collection service based on property value as follows:

- Item 7.1.2.2.1 – Value from R1 and up to R580 000 receive a 100% rebate –this excludes Housing properties valued at R0, which will continue to receive 100% rebate; - Item 7.1.2.2.2 - valued between R580 001 and up to R640 000 receive a 50% rebate;

- Item

7.1.2.2.3 - valued between R640 001 and up to R830 000 receive a 25% rebate.

3. MISCELLANEOUS TARIFFS, FEES AND CHARGES

3.1 A complete copy of all Miscellaneous Tariffs, Fees and Charges are available for inspection at the above-mentioned Municipal Offices (see Annexure 6 of approved Budget document).

3.2 All Miscellaneous tariffs fees and charges include VAT, except Fines, Penalties, Refundable Deposits, Home ownership transfer and tenancy management and Contracted Road-Based Public Transport which are exempt from VAT.

3.3 The costs for Emergency Services and Disaster Management requirements have been calculated in accordance with section 74 (2) (d) of the Local Government: Municipal Systems Act 32 of 2000 and the Occupational Health and Safety Act, 85 of 1993: Major Hazard Installation Regulations, 2022, and will be charged in accordance with the tariffs reflected in the 2026/27 Tariff Book to the following companies:

• Eskom Holdings SOC Ltd for the Koeberg Nuclear Power Station - with the Koeberg Nuclear Emergency Preparedness Tariff recalculated as a cost reflective tariff as required by local government legislation and in accordance with the MOU signed between the City of Cape Town and Koeberg Nuclear Power Station;

• Astron Energy (Pty) Ltd. regarding the refinery;

• Rheinmetall Denel Munition (Pty) Ltd;

• Fine Chemicals; and

• BP Cape Town Terminal

3.4 For operations at any of the other Major Hazard Installation (MHI’s) not contemplated in 3.3, an interim recovery tariff for the estimated cost for annual emergency preparedness support for the 2026/27 financial year has been set to an amount of R5 000 (excl. VAT) and is reflected in the 2026/27 Tariff Book

4. CITY IMPROVEMENT DISTRICTS (CID) ADDITIONAL RATES The

Note: Additional Rates are reflected exclusive of VAT. VAT inclusive rates can be found in the City’s Tariffs, Fees and Charges book.

* Subject to Council approving the establishment of the CID

5. CONTRACTED ROAD-BASED PUBLIC TRANSPORT SERVICES INCLUDING MyCiTi INTEGRATED RAPID TRANSIT (IRT)

Public transport fares are exempt from VAT. These tariffs are in line with the updated Fare Policy for Contracted Road-Based Public Transport Services.

As required in the policy, overall increases are in line with the projected increases in vehicle operator costs as per the relevant contracts

NB: Information provided is an extract from the Tariffs, Fees and Charges Book. For the full version consult Annexure 6 of the approved 2026/27 Budget document. 2026/27

SERVICES RENDERED AND RELATED TRANSPORT PRODUCTS

N/A 0.002997

0.000569 0.001170

0.000962 0.001590

0.001264 N/A

N/A 0.004124

N/A 0.001563

0.000856 0.002519

0.000376 0.002887 >50% =0.000576

0.000866 0.002251

N/A 0.002146

3,426,4530.000529 0.001566

Rust to reading riches

Jamey Gordon

For those who take their daily stroll along Beach Road, stop to watch the waves or simply enjoy the fresh sea air, there is now another reason to pause – a lovingly restored postbox that has traded its days of holding letters for a new life as Strand’s second street library.

Beach Road residents Geoff and Janet Burton are the husband-and-wife team behind the initiative.

The couple, who live in an apartment building towards the Greenways end of Beach Road, have long been admirers of the original Strand street library near the Brasserie, stopping to browse, leaving books and taking books over time.

It was on their walks home that they began noticing a neglected, rusted postbox with sand and stones piled up behind it. The seed of an idea was planted. “It’s taken us from July last year, when we saw the first one, until now to think –okay, we could do this,” said Geoff.

He reached out to Leslie and Sanette Thiart, the champions of the original street library, who guided them through the process of obtaining the necessary approvals from the post office to restore and repurpose the box.

The postbox itself, it turned out, has stood on Beach Road for decades – a fact confirmed by a former postal worker who stopped to chat while Geoff was busy painting it.

COLLECTED POST FROM THIS BOX

“One of the most interesting discussions I had the week before last, while finishing off the painting, was with a man who walked past and said he used to be employed by the post office and collect post from this very box,” said Geoff. “He said it has been here since 1963. He used to collect from it, get on his bike and take it back to the post office. That was quite nice.”

As previously reported, the original Strand street library, also a restored postbox on Beach Road, has become a beloved fixture of the seaside neighbourhood since its launch last year (“Street literary gem”, DistrictMail & Helderberg Gazette , 18 February). Rather than

competition, Geoff sees the two as natural companions.

“I think the two libraries are sufficiently far apart that they don’t impact on each other. We are happy to share books – it doesn’t matter whether somebody takes from one and replaces it at the other,” he said. “It wasn’t so much that there was a specific gap we felt we needed to fill, but at this end of Beach Road, with all the construction going on, the promenade is going to be done within the next six months. We thought it would be a nice feature on this newly developed promenade and street area.”

The response from those living nearby has reinforced that instinct. While renovating the postbox, Geoff was regularly approached by residents from the surrounding apartment buildings and further along Beach Road. “They’re very keen and enthusiastic to see the library working and have already offered to bring books,” he said.

Within days of posting about the library on Facebook, almost 2 000 people reacted with thumbs up, applause or messages of appreciation. A handful of sceptics raised concerns about theft or vandalism, but Geoff remains unfazed. “There’s no reason to think that’s going to be the case. The other one has been around for almost a year now. We tend to look on the positive side of things.”

WHAT PEOPLE LEAVE

The content, Geoff said, will vary depending on what people leave. “English and Afrikaans,

fiction, non-fiction and children’s books are all welcome. Whatever the mix, it will largely define who the users are, though most are likely to be adults.”

Day-to-day management falls to Geoff and Janet, who keep a quiet eye on their new neighbourhood fixture. “I just go down, top up the books and tidy them up if they’re in a bit of disarray,” he said.

Geoff acknowledged that the project was a team effort. He extended a “thank you” to Leslie, who supplied and fitted the shelves, while Dolf Nell supplied and fitted the perspex door. “It couldn’t have been done without the contribution of these two guys,” he added.

For anyone inspired to start their own street library, Geoff’s advice is simple. “You really just need to find a postbox. This will pretty much define where the library is going to be. Postboxes are mostly placed in fairly high-traffic or residential areas, which is ideal.”

Both couples – Annette and Leslie behind the first library, and Geoff and Janet behind the second – are happy to assist anyone keen to get involved.

Geoff’s message to passersby is equally straightforward. “Stop on your daily walk, have a look and see if there’s a book you like. Ideally, bring a book, take a book and leave a book."

A QR code on the front of the postbox links to a WhatsApp group where readers can connect, share suggestions and stay in touch. “We’re always open to suggestions and improvements.”

For the record

The incorrect incorrect dates and holiday programme details at Strand Library were published in last week’s edition (“Special winter programme for young ones at library, DistrictMail & Helderberg Gazette, 24 June).

The information was sourced from the City of Cape Town’s website, but did not accurately reflect the library’s confirmed programme. DistrictMail & Helderberg Gazette apologies for the error.

The good news? The correct programme is even better!

The fun started on Tuesday

30 June, with a nature conservation-themed session.

On Wednesday 1 July, music lovers can look forward to Musiekpret with Musical Explorers. Stories and craft follows on Thursday 2 July, with storytelling paired with hands-on activities.

Monday 6 July brings board games and a colouring competition, while Thursday 9 July offers stories and a craft session. On Monday 13 July techies can dive into a coding unplugged session and Thursday 16 July is stories and craft morning. All the sessions start at 10:00. . For more information, contact Linda Bruwer on 021 444 3107 or linda.bruwer@capetown.gov.za.

NOTICE

IN TERMS OF THE PROVISIONS OF SECTION 32(2) OF THE WESTERN CAPE GAMBLING AND RACING ACT, 1996 (ACT 4 OF 1996) (“THE ACT”), AS AMENDED, THE WESTERN CAPE GAMBLING AND RACING BOARD HEREBY GIVES NOTICE THAT THE FOLLOWING APPLICATION FOR A BOOKMAKER PREMISES LICENCE, AS PROVIDED FOR IN SECTIONS 27(kA) AND 55(A) OF THE ACT HAS BEEN RECEIVED

Applicant for a new Somerset West Tattersalls CC bookmaker premises t/a Vegas Bets licence: - A South Afr ican registered company

Registration number : 1997/058345/23

Business address of Shop 4, Lourens Center 107 Main Road, proposed bookmaker Somerset West, 7130 premises:

Erf number : 698

Section 33 of the Western Cape Gambling and Racing Act, 1996 (hereinafter “the Act”) requires the Western Cape Gambling and Racing Board (hereinafter “the Board”) to ask the public to submit comments and / or objections to gambling licence applications that are filed with the Board. The conduct of gambling operations is regulated in terms of both the Act and the National Gambling Act, 2004. This notice ser ves to notify members of the public that they may lodge objections and/ or comments to the above application on or before the closing date at the below-mentioned address and contacts. Since licensed gambling constitutes a legitimate business operation, moral objections for or against gambling will not be considered by the Board. An objection that merely states that one is opposed to gambling without much substantiation will not be viewed with much favour You are hereby encouraged to read the Act and learn more about the Board’s powers and the matters pursuant to which objections may be lodged. These are outlined in Sections 28, 30, 31 and 35 of the Act Members of the public can obtain a copy of the objection guidelines, which are an explanator y guide through the legal framework governing the lodgement of objections and the Board’s adjudication procedures. The objection guidelines are accessible from the Board’s website at www.wcgrb.co.za and copies can also be made available on request. The Board will consider all comments and objections lodged on or before the closing date during the adjudication of the application.

In the case of written objections to an application, the grounds on which such objections are founded must be furnished. Where comment in respect of an application is furnished, full particulars and facts to substantiate such comment must be provided. The name, address and telephone number of the person submitting the objection or offering the comment must also be provided.

Comments or objections must reach the Board by no later than 16:00 on Friday, 17 July 2026.

Postal address:The Chief Executive Officer, Western Cape Gambling and Racing Board, P O Box 8175, ROGGEBAAI 8012

Street address:The Chief Executive Officer, Western Cape Gambling and Racing Board, 24 Fairway Close, Parow 7500

Fax No: +27 (0)21 422 2602

E-mail to: Objections.Licensing@wcgrb.co.za

HB Gladiators hit a six in first over

Jamey Gordon

Not every young cricketer in the Helderberg has had an equal shot at the game. However, a new initiative is looking to change that, one talented youngster at a time.

The Helderberg Gladiators was established earlier this year by Anand Naidoo, Brandon Smith, Chantel Naidoo and Alison Smith, whose combined strengths span coaching, player development, administration, community engagement and strategic planning. The initiative was born out of a clear gap – the lack of accessible, structured development opportunities for young cricketers outside of traditional school and club systems.

“While there is an abundance of talent across the Helderberg, not every child has equal access to quality coaching, competitive exposure and the kind of support needed to grow in the game,” the team said. This is especially true for children from disadvantaged communities, where talented young cricketers often lack the pathways available to others despite having the passion and potential to succeed.

Helderberg Gladiators hosted their first official trials at Helderzicht Sports Ground in Somerset West on Saturday (27 June), with under-11, under-13 and under-16 players from schools across the basin invited to showcase their skills. “More than just numbers, our focus is on identifying players with potential, passion and a willingness to learn.”

Players were assessed on batting, bowling, fielding, attitude, coachability and overall game awareness, with selectors looking well beyond raw talent. “Temperament, discipline, enthusiasm, work ethic and the potential for long-term development are equally important. We want to

Misty skies and early alarms were no match for the determination of these young cricketers, who swapped their duvets for cricket gear at Helderzicht Sports Ground on Saturday (27 June) for Helderberg Gladiators’ inaugural under-11, under-13 and under-16 trials. Photo: Jamey Gordon

identify players who can grow within the Helderberg Gladiators environment and represent the team with pride.”

The team reported that the trials were a resounding success, with two full under-16 teams already assembled. The initiative is still recruiting approximately 34 players each for the under-13 and under-11 squads.

While the Gladiators continue to seek sponsorship, the team is pressing ahead under its own steam.

CONSIDERABLE EXPERIENCE

The team noted that parents were impressed by the professionalism of the day and the manner in which the young players were managed. The coaching staff boasts considerable experience, headlined by Abdul Aziz Temoor, a former Western Province first-class player and World Cup over-40 champion, who will coach the under-18s and assist with the under-16s, alongside Rhonwen Karsten, Hein Karsten and Brandon Smith.

Those who impressed but did not make the final squad will not be forgotten. “We want this to be the beginning of a pathway, not a once-off event,” the team said, adding

that promising players will remain on the radar for future opportunities, clinics and development initiatives.

The selected squads will represent the Helderberg Gladiators at the HPL T20 Tournament from 7 to 13 December. The main venue will be Helderzicht Sports Ground, with Elgin Country Club and Applewood Preparatory School in Grabouw confirmed as additional venues, and discussions ongoing regarding the possible use of the cricket ground in Gordon’s Bay.

“A strong performance at the HPL would be hugely significant,” said the team. “For the players, it would be a reward for their hard work and an opportunity to gain confidence and exposure. It would validate the vision and demonstrate that quality talent exists in the local community when given the right platform.”

A telling sign that the vision is already gaining traction is that Helderberg Gladiators has already been invited to participate in the Boland T20 Tournament in 2027.

The vision extends well beyond December. In years to come, the Gladiators plan to introduce an under-19 age group and strengthen their focus on girls’ and wom-

Somerset West hockey dreams of home

Yaseen Gaffar

Somerset West Hockey Club (SWHC) has spent more than half a century proving that it is far more than an organisation – it is a family-orientated, values-driven community that has connected generations of players, surviving and thriving through decades of local growth.

What began as a bold vision by a handful of hockey enthusiasts in 1974 has blossomed into one of the largest and most respected hockey clubs in Western Province, boasting an active membership of over 450.

The SWHC story began 52 years ago when Jerry Garrett, Terry McIntyre, Albert Dunford and the late Mervyn Traut – who passed away last year – shared a dream of establishing a hockey hub in the Helderberg. Starting with just 20 players, many of whom had never held a hockey

stick, they laid a foundation built on determination and a culture of belonging.

The club’s competitive edge was evident from the outset. The men’s first team entered the league in 1975 and immediately dominated, clinching the title with an astonishing record of 78 goals scored and only 13 conceded.

FIRST LADIES’ TEAM

A men’s second team was established in 1976, and by 1988 the club welcomed its first women’s team to the field.

“From a handful of dreamers with hockey sticks in 1974 to a thriving, multi-generational sporting community today, the club has always remained true to its founding spirit,” the club said in a statement.

Under the leadership of chairperson Jan de Waal and honorary president Chris Beart, SWHC currently fields an impres-

sive 27 teams across various leagues – six senior men’s teams, six senior women’s teams, five masters’ teams and 10 junior teams across different age groups.

This vast structure reflects the club’s dual commitment to high-performance sport and widespread community participation.

Despite its size and regional influence, SWHC operates without a permanent home ground. The club functions as a nomadic powerhouse, relying on rented astro facilities at local schools in the area.

On any given week, players and supporters spread out across the turf at Beaumont Primary School, Parel Vallei High School, Somerset House, Rhenish and Somerset College to practise and play their fixtures.

While these partnerships with local schools keep the club moving forward, leadership is firmly looking towards an

en’s cricket – an area already bearing fruit. Three girls associated with the initiative have been selected for the Boland T20 squad – Cayleigh Smith, Leah Duncan and Robin Duncan. Cayleigh Smith has also been selected to the WP under-19 winter training squad.

Operating under the auspices of the Novus Sport & Education Foundation NPC, the initiative also aims to restore and improve cricket facilities in the area, recognising that meaningful youth development requires investment in the environment around the players. Helderberg Gladiators does not seek to replace schools or clubs, but to complement and strengthen the existing cricket pipeline.

Inclusivity sits at the heart of everything they do. Selection is based purely on potential, commitment and passion. “We believe cricket should be a space where talent can be identified and developed regardless of background, and we are intentional about contributing to transformation and access within youth cricket.”

Their message to young cricketers: “Back yourself and never be afraid to take an opportunity when it comes. Helderberg Gladiators is about more than just selecting a team – it is about creating an environment where young players can learn, compete and believe in what is possible.”

Helderberg Gladiators extended their gratitude to Helderberg Cricket Club for the use of their facility for the trials, as well as to their generous sponsors: Arlene Britz of Eternite Funerals; Steven Farmer of A1 Property Solutions; Steven Heuvels of CricketPro and Malcolm Cloete of M&G Cricket Bats. CricketPro will also be supporting the HPL through a free online programme that allows young cricketers to register, achieve milestone awards and work towards earning a full cricket gear sponsorship.

ambitious future. Central to the club’s longterm vision is the dream of securing its own permanent, dedicated astro. Though plans remain in the early stages, a true hockey hub would not only unify the club’s 27 teams under one roof, but would also strengthen player development pipelines and secure a lasting legacy for future generations of Helderberg hockey players. . For more information on Somerset West Hockey Club, visit www.somersetwesthockeyclub.co.za.

SPORT

Woensdag, 1 Julie 2026

It’s derby time in SLB

Yaseen Gaffar

The race for regional supremacy in the super leagues of Western Province Rugby Football Union reached boiling point this past weekend, laying the foundations for what promises to be an explosive round with a local derby and high-stakes clashes on Saturday 4 July.

With league tables solidifying after 12 weeks of gruelling competition, the spotlight falls firmly on Super League B, where an eagerly anticipated top-of-thetable local derby will define the season.

Log leaders Macassar RFC will host rivals All Saints RFC in a fixture that has the region buzzing.

The MC Boys currently command the summit of SLB with 39 points from 10 games, but their lead has been trimmed to just two points.

Breathing directly down their necks are the high-flying Olla Boys, who cemented their second-place position (37 points) with a gritty 21-14 victory over a resilient NTK side over the weekend.

At the opposite end of the SLB table, St George’s find themselves in desperate need of a resurgence.

Currently sitting 14th place with 16 points and caught in the relegation crosshairs, the Lulu Boys face a highstakes away fixture against 12th-placed Vineyards RFC in Paarl this weekend – a must-win clash if they hope to climb out of the danger zone.

In Super League A, Helderberg delivered the most emphatic performance of the weekend, dismantling Franschhoek in a 48-0 shutout at the Charles Morkel Stadium.

The victory kept the hosts firmly entrenched in third position on the SLA table with 38 points, applying immense pressure on Durbell and table-toppers Villager.

Berge established early control of the match, suffocating the visitors with a disciplined defensive line and clinical handling. They headed into the interval with a comfortable 12-0 lead, courtesy of well-worked first-half tries by Jayden Daniels and Michael Visser. It was the second-half onslaught, how-

ever, that left the crowd in awe.

Turning possession into a relentless flood of points, the home team crossed the whitewash an additional six times.

Tries from JJ Stover, Mauritz Swart, Hughwan Engelbrecht, Junior Fortuin, Luke Carew and Dian Koen completed the rout, with Visser and Darren Hendricks adding the conversions.

Berge will look to carry this momentum into Saturday’s fixture against stragglers Van der Stel-Evergreens.

Super League C produced a weekend of starkly contrasting fortunes for local clubs. Strand RFC secured a vital lifeline, digging deep for a crucial 20-12 victory over Scottsdene-Central. The win moves Liga to 18 points, keeping them within striking distance of mid-table safety, though a massive test awaits this weekend when they travel to face fifthplaced Pniël Villagers.

In contrast, Strand United had a catastrophic afternoon, as they were oblit-

erated 69-6 by an unforgiving Watsonia Warriors side. United remain stranded in 15th place on the table with a meagre five points and a -227 points difference, staring relegation in the face as they prepare to face Langa at Langa Stadium.

Regional contenders Sir Lowrians and Raithby Universals both suffered setbacks against top-tier opposition.

Sir Low fought valiantly but ultimately succumbed 33-24 to third-placed Kylemore, leaving them in ninth on the table with 25 points.

RU put on stern resistance on the road but fell 25-17 to Delft United. Currently sitting in 10th with 23 points, Raithby must immediately regroup as they prepare to host clinical second-placed Watsonia Warriors – a true test of character on home soil this coming weekend.



Fixtures for Saturday 4 July:

– SLA: Helderberg vs Van der Stel-Evergreens;

– SLB: Vineyards vs St George’s, Macas-

sar vs All Saints;

– SLC:

and – Northern League: Gordon’s Bay Pioneers vs Blakes.