DistrictMail & Helderberg Gazette - E-Edition - 4 February 2026

Fa

Af West a3 day spokesperson con around ery was Wi reportedly mov wh turning collision veh from rea Emer Co

ussen Macassar Heights en die N2-snelwegstrek,met ’n

kominMaart

wina Sinkfonn’nongeluk -snelweg t.

Diefeitdat Sinkfontein nie dieeersteslagoffer op daardie deel van dieN2isnie,maak ditvir haar familienog moeiliker

“Hoekomkon die mense wat in beheerdaarvanis, nie ná dieeerstedooddringende maatreëls instelnie?” vra Poggenpoel deur trane

“Hoeveel lewensmoetnog verloor wordvoordatdit ’n prioriteit word?”

Diefamiliesefrustrasie worddeurpolitiekeleiers gedeel. FeliciaSolomons, ‘n raadslidvan dieNational Coloured Congressvir subraad 8, hetMaandag 19 Januariehierdie sentiment in ’n mediaverklaringuitgespreek, waarinsygesêhet dat inwonersvan Macassar Heights belowe is dat ’n beskermende muur tussendie N2 en diewoongebied gebou sou word, maar dithet nooitgebeur nie

“Vandag is dietragiese gevolgevan daardiebesluit duidelik –’ngesin treur en drie kinders is sonderhul ma gelaat,” hetdie verklaring gelui

DieraadslidCarlPophaim, dieburgemeesterskomiteelidvir menslike nedersettings, hetbevestigdat ’n grensheining tussen Macassar Heightsendie N2 in ooreenstemmingmet die gemeenskap se versoek aangebring is.“Sedertdie installasie is dele van dieheining as gevolg van herhaaldevoorvalle van diefstal en vandalismebeskadigengesteel,” het Pophaimverduidelik

Hy hetook beklemtoon dat dieN2’n nasionale pad onder die jurisdiksie van dieSuid-Afrikaanse Nasionale Padagentskap (Sanral) is Diestad hetnie binnesygoedgekeurde projekbegrotings voorsiening virdie voortdurendevervanging van infrastruktuur wat deur misdadigeaktiwiteite vernietig is nie Pophaimhet verduidelik dat die Macassar-projek ’n stadsprojekisendat die grensheining as deel van daardie projek deur diestad opgerig is.Problemewat metdie grensheining verbandhou,is egter Sanral se verantwoordelikheid. Peter Helfrich, dieraadslidvir wyk109, hetsymeegevoelmet Sinkfontein se familiegedeel, maar ookdie stadse standpunt weerspieël.

Lwando Mahlasela, ’n Sanral-woordvoerder, erken dat diepadowerheidvan Sinkfontein se doodbewus is,maarhet gesê dieprobleem strek verderterugas hierdievoorval.

Volgens homishierdiegedeelte van dieN2as’ngevaarlike plekvir voetgangersgeïdentifiseer en nie-amptelike statistieke duidaarop dat daar’ntoename in dieaantal voetgangerongelukke op hierdie gedeelte van die N2 is –veral sedert 2024. “Die omheining van die padreserwe is ’n gesamentlike verantwoordelikheid tussen die grondeienaar en Sanral,” het Mahlasela verduidelik Voor diekonstruksievan die huise het diebehuisingsontwikkelingseiendom die goedkeuringvan Sanral gekry–in2013. As deel van hierdiegoedkeuring is dit bepaal dat diegrondeienaar verantwoordelik is virdie oprigting en instandhouding van diegrensheining.

“Die veiligheidsheining is opgerig, maar is latergesteel”,sêMahlasela.

Diepadowerheid hettalleintervensies ingestel,maarnadat die heinings weer opgerig is,isdit weer gevandaliseer of gesteel. Sanral is tansweereensbesig met’n tender vir die verskaffing en oprigting van heinings en mure in dieomgewing van dieN2nabyMacassar, metdie doel om diewerkteendie middelvan Maart te begin

Pool shifts gears with newleague

Yaseen Gaffar

For decades,the sounds of pool being played have been astaple of life in Macassar, but the setting for the sport hasoften been far from ideal.

Traditionally played in backyard shebeensand informal corners, the game has inadvertently exposed youngplayers to various negative socialelements.

To reclaimthe sportand provide a safe haven for local talent, the Helderberg Pool Union (HPU) and the South African Council for Cue Sports (SACCS) development arm, Pool4Change, are launching agroundbreaking school league to move thesport into astructured, disciplinedenvironment.

The project, which aims to shield young peoplefrom the scourges ofalcohol, drugs, and gangsterism, is officially recognised by the DepartmentofBasic Education as an extra-mural sports code.

Adiel Rhoda, PRO of the HPU, emphasises that the initiative is aboutcreating a“safe space” where the youth of Macassar and Firgrove can develop their skills

der-14 andunder-18 agecategories.

Forthe most talentedplayers,the roadleads directly to the national stage.

“The programme is designed to prepare teams forthe National School Pool Championships in Durban during the September andOctober holidays, as well as the South African NationalChampionshipsinPotchefstroominJune,” said Rhoda.

“Participants will represent the Helderberg PoolUnion, providing them with the opportunity to earn prestigious provincialhonours fortheir achievements.”

Thepotential for success in Macassar is already provenbylocal legends like Ashley “The Machine”Daniels. A lifelongresident who began his journey at age eight, Daniels hassince become aworld-ranked player, reaching number10juniorinthe world in 2014 and representing South Africa at the world championships in England as recentlyas 2024. Similarly, rising starTashrique Pietersenhas demonstratedthe sport’s power,winning the under-15 Blackball

Finding our grassroots heroes

YaseenGaffar

As the 50th anniversary of the1976 student uprising approaches, anew community-driven initiative is set to turn thespotlight on the region's "grassroots heroes".

The Helderberg Residents Concern Group, in collaboration with theHelderberg Youth Academy, hasannounced a comprehensive research project aimed at documenting the history of local sports clubs andthe pivotal roles played by administrators andathletes during the apartheid era

Theproject is spearheaded by atrio of seasoned professionals:

•Shakoor Vallie, acommunity worker andtrainer who previously taught at several schools andaTVETCollege;

•JulianJansen, ajournalist and author of several books whose career includes work for Media 24 and Rapport, as well as atenure as ateacher at GordonHigh

In abid to makethis history permanent, thegroup has partnered withthe DistrictMail &Helderberg Gazette to compile these findings into acommemorativebook.The publication will serve as avital reference for future generations and willbedistributed free to local schoolsand libraries.

The organisers havemade it clear that this project is alabour of lovefor the community, withnointention of monetary gain or sale. The project willculminate in aprestigious awards ceremony on Tuesday 16 June, coinciding withYouthDay.The event will feature guest speakers from the communityand serve as an appreciation ceremony for all participants.

The organisers are currently reaching out to businesses to join theHelderberg's favouritecommunitynewspaper in supporting this venture.

 Contactriaan.arnolds@novusmedia.co.za.

School taxi driver DUI

Ascholartransport driver was arrested fordrunk driving whilst transporting 12 learners in Somerset Weston Tuesday27January.

City of Cape Towntraffic officers arrested the 48-yearold driver in Oak Street, near alocal primary school, after detecting alcohol on hisbreath during aroutine check following publiccomplaints about scholar transport services

Kevin Jacobs,spokesperson for the City’s Traffic Services, confirmed that abreathalyser test revealed the driver was over the legal limit. “Publictransportoperators such as scholar transport drivers have astricter alcohol limitof0,02g/100ml compared to 0,05g/100ml forother drivers,” Jacobs explained.

All12children were safely removed from the 15-seater minibus taxiduring the arrest, with alaw enforcement officer stepping in to complete the school drop-off route. Authorities confirmed that none of the learnerswere injuredortraumatised during the incident.

The driver, whoisanemployeerather than owner of the transport business, wastaken to holding cells at Somerset West Police Station. The vehicle owner was immediatelynotified

and the minibus was impounded for not being roadworthyand its licensewas suspended Police spokespersonWarrant Officer SuzanJantjiesconfirmed that the driver hasbeen charged with drunk driving andreleased on bail. He is scheduled to appear in Somerset West Magistrates’Court on Tuesday7April

Theincident underscores the heightenedresponsibility placed on thosetransportingvulnerable passengers andfollows intensified scholar transport enforcement acrossthe Western Cape after the tragicVanderbijlpark crash highlightedsafety concerns.

Between 14 and23January, provincial traffic officers conducted 45 operations, stopping over 1600 vehicles andissuing 1250 fines totaling R580 000. They impounded 46 vehicles and discontinued23unroadworthy vehicles,manytransporting learners.Toboot, three drivers were arrested for driving under the influence, with onerecording 0,68 mg/l–significantlyover the limit. Officials identified key risks includingillegaltransport vehicles,drunk driving,dangerous overloading andunroadworthy vehicles.

“Our foremostconcern is the safety of every learner who dependsontransporttoget to

•

Areminder to

•

‘Robbers’ hit Somerset West again

Aspate of house robberies occurred in Somerset West, with police investigating four incidents overone week, three occurring within 24 hours.

According to police spokesperson Warrant Officer SuzanJantjies, the first robbery took placeinSir Lowry’sPass at 22:15 on Monday 26 January. Four armedmen carrying apanga, golf club andknife allegedly entered aKnorhoek Road residence, tied the victims up and stole five cellphones, jewellery and atravel bag.

Fourdays later on Friday 30 January, at 11:00, asecond robbery occurred in Helderrand. Two suspects reportedly jumped over

awall, assaultedand tieda couple up before stealing items from their home

Less than three hours later, at 15:45, three men entered aHeldervue home where afemale resident was working. They demanded money andjewellery, ransacked her handbagand cupboards, then tied the victim and her son up before fleeing.

The latest incident occurred around 02:30onSaturday 31 January, when four masked and gloved suspects entered aHelena Heights residence. They stoletelevision sets, cellphones, laptops and the victim’s white Mazda CX-5 after tying her up.

In each case victims managed to free themselves and contact police after thesuspectsfled. No arrestshad been made and all investigations continue. Anyone withinformation can contact Somerset West Detective Branch on 021 850 1302.

Meanwhile, Somerset West police have opened twoinquest docketsfollowing thediscovery of an elderly couple who died at their Rome Glen home.

According to Jantjies thecouple –a 79-year-old man and 73-yearold woman –were found dead on Sunday 25 January. No foul play is suspected and the investigation remains ongoing.

Go po

Gordon’s “given st ty al Januar to while Fo tion the edge but me and maine al the lighting ily homes

THE CITY OF CAPE TOWN’S APPROVAL OF THE 2025/26 ADJUSTMENTS BUDGET

Notice is hereby given in terms of regulation 26 of theMunicipalBudget and Reporting Regulations, 2008,readwith theLocal Government: MunicipalSystems Act, Act32of2000,and the LocalGovernment:MunicipalFinance Management Act, Act56of2003,thatthe documentsrelating to theCity’s2025/26 Adjustments Budget, approved at Council on 29 January 2026, areavailable for perusal on the City of Cape Town’swebsiteatwww capetown.gov.za/budget.

Wear flip-flops,step forward in solidarity

Localsare invited to step-up for aworthy cause when FlipFlop Dayreturns on Friday20 February.

The national campaign, led by CHOC Childhood Cancer Foundation, encourages individuals, schools and workplaces to buy aR10 stickerand wearflip flops in solidarity with families affected by childhood cancer.

“This fun campaign carries a serious message, that no family should walk the childhood cancer journey alone,” said Hedley Lewis, CEO of CHOC.

“A small action, such as purchasing aR10 sticker, enables CHOC to provide practical, emotional andeducational support when familiesneed it most."

Thefunds raised deliver vital services, includingsafe accommodation near treatment centres, transportassistance, psychosocial supportand educational programmes to help children continue learningduring treatment.

The campaign demonstrates how collective participation translates into practical support:

• 20 stickers can cover achild’s monthlytransport costs to treatment.

• 30 stickers fund aCHOC Carebag with essential items and parent handbook for newly diagnosed families

• 60 stickers provideone night’s accommodation at aCHOC House for achild and caregiver

Participation is simple:buy a

CHOC Childhood CancerFoundation implores locals to supportFlipFlopDay on Friday20February, by purchasing aR10 sticker and wearing flipflopsto raisefunds forvital services including accommodation,transport,and support forchildrenand familiesaffected by childhood cancer.

R10 Flip Flop Day sticker from CHOC or TekkieTown nationwide,wearyour stickers and flip flops on 20 February, and encourage otherstojoin.

Share photos using #FlipFlopDay26 to spread awareness.

Thecampaign is supported by key partners including Tekkie Town (retail partner), The CourierGuy (logistics),Ipanema (product partner), and OUTsurance,ensuringnationwide reach and maximum impact.

 Formoreinformation Flip-Flop Dayorthe CHOCChildhood Cancer Foundation visit www.choc.org.za.

Strale vansagtheid

Terwyl kinders met kanker deur harde tyegaan, bring die Strand Patrol-buurtwag sagtheid in die vorm vanteddiebeertjies. KC Gericke,die voorsittervan die buurtwag, sê die inspirasie agterdie skenking is die vyfjarigeMia-Miri Wessels(foto), by wie leukemie verlede jaar gediagnoseer is. Ná ’n gesprek metMia-Miri se ma, Amarynka, het Gerickeuitgevind datdie meisietjie wougraag speelgoed vir ander kinders in die hospitaal gee. Dit hetdie buurtwaggeïnspireer om teddiebeertjies te begin versamel Gerickeverduidelik die rede vir beertjies is tweevoudig –eerstensgee die kosbare gesiggies kinders ’n gevoel vangemak en ’n vriend om meesaam te wees en tweedens wysdie sagtheid vandie teddiebeertjie datdaar nog sagtheid in die wêreld is. Gericke sê die lewe vanvolwassenes is moeilik en hy wouhêdie kinders moet vasklouaan [die beertjies se]sagtheid sodathulle kansien daar is nog mensewat omgee.Die insameling waseenvoudig, dog doeltreffend. Die buurtwaghet net aangekondig dathulle teddiebeertjiesversamelendie gemeenskap het ingespring.Een inwoner het selfs’n koerier gekryom’nboksvol beertjies af te haal. Gericke vertel dat hulle uiteindelik sowat120 teddiebeertjies ingesamelhet.Die buurtwaghet die teddiebeertjies op Saterdag 10 Januarie persoonlik by die Wessels-gesinafgelewer,saam metsjokolade virmamma en droëwors vir pappaStephan– ’n gebaar watwys dathierdie inisiatief oor meer as netspeelgoed gaan.

Aweh, young artists!

Are youabold, creative talent ready to elevate your art to the next level? The City of Cape Town has openedapplications for its annualEmerging Artists programme,anexciting opportunity designed to support, showcase, and nurture emergingcreative voices. Meanwhile, the popular Arts Aweh! after-school arts programme is already wellunderway for 2026.

Now in its sixth year, the Emerging Arts programme creates valuable opportunities for young visual artists,providing mentorship, skillsdevelopment and exhibition platformsfor approximately 200 emerging artists annually, the vast majority of whom are young people.

Through the City’s partnership with the Investec Cape Town Art Fair four emerging artists are showcased eachyear. In recent editions, these featured artists have achieved sell-out success, demonstrating that when pathways are created, young people will seize them.

The call forparticipation this year is currently open and will close on Friday 13 February. The programmetargets early-career artists seeking practical skills, mentorship, and exhibition experience. Only 25 places are available.

An exhibitionshowcasing participants’ artwork willbeheld in May,providing an opportunity for artists to apply their newly acquired skills and to sell their work

Application details:

•Information: https://www. capetown.gov.za/Explore%20

and%20enjoy/Arts-and-culture/ artists-programme/emerging-artist-programme

• Applications: emerging@capetown.gov.za

The Arts Aweh! programme offers afree creative after-school experience forlearners agedfive to 17. Activities include drawing, painting, photography, hip-hop, dance, performance, poetry, clay work and beading.

The programme’s popularity is evident in itsimpressive engagementfigures: 64 819 interactions were recorded between November 2024 andJune 2025. In this period, 3173 learners participated across 13 facilities, whilethe programme created 36employment opportunities through theExpanded Public WorksProgramme

This year’s programme commenced on Thursday 8January at various venues inMfuleni, Pelican Park, Hanover Park and Athlone,already reaching more than2 000young people. Addi-

Dagboek|Diary

WEDNESDAY 4FEBRUARY

 Somerset West: Insteadofhis usualsaxophone performance, renowned musicianand composerAndrew Young will share the inspiring storybehind his extraordinarymusical journey at the UNIVERSITY OF THE THIRDAGE (U3A) HELDERBERG’S monthlymeeting. From ayoung boytorn between soccer and music in Liverpool to performing before royalty and presidents worldwide,Young’stalereveals howachildhood dream became realitybeyond expectations. Discoverthe “inside story” of theacclaimed artist’spathfrom armyband member to international soloist,including his formativeyears in Germany andSouth Africa, wherehefirst tasted solo success. The gathering takesplace at the HelderbergDutch Reformed church in FirmountRoadat10:00.U3A members arewelcome free of charge; visitorswill payR20 at the door.Members cancollect their badges from 09:15. Forenquiries, phone Denise Fourie on 072211 1173

THURSDAY 5FEBRUARY

Somerset West: Art enthusiasts and collectors areinvited to an exclusiveCheeseand Wine evening featuring aremarkableauction at THE ARTGALLERY @ROOT44.The highlight of the evening will be the auction of an extraordinary painting by acclaimed localartist“Bousie”, a monumental 2,6-m hyper-realisticoil painting entitled Supper with Madiba.This significant political-historical artwork, which took the artist threeyears to complete, features NelsonMandela alongside severalANC stalwarts and has never been offered to the market before.The pieceis expected to fetchupwards of R800 000,which wouldrepresent aremarkableachievementfor aliving South African artist and underscore the growing recognition of localcontemporary talent In additiontoBousie's masterpiece, the auction willfeaturewhat is believedtobethe largest privately-owned collection of Frans Claerhout oil paintings. This exceptional collection carries areserve of R900 000,though industryexperts suggest it couldachieve as muchasR3million with theright biddersattending.The evening will also showcasevarious worksby other celebrated

TheCityofCape Town is nowaccepting applicationsfor itsannual Emerging Artistsprogramme (deadline Friday13 February)alongside itsongoing Arts Aweh! after-school arts programme for youngcreatives.

tionalvenues will be added in the coming months, with the programme concluding on Tuesday26May.

Participants may attend Monday to Friday from 14:00 to 17:00. The programme is free, with all materials and art supplies provided. On completion, artwork will be exhibited at variousCity facilities.

“Arts programmes such as these provide young people with safe spaces to learn, express themselves, andbuild confidence throughcreativity,”said Francine Higham, Mayoral Committee memberfor Community Services and Health. “We have seen tremendous enthusiasm for these programmes in the past, and Iexpect this year will be no different. Iencourage learners andaspiring young artists to makethe most of these platforms, andIlook forward to seeing their creations at the exhibitionstage.”

FormoreinformationontheArts Aweh!programme,sendanemailto Aleeyah.Baker@capetown.gov.za. FormoredetailsontheEmerging Artistsprogrammesendanemailto emerging@capetown.gov.za.

South Africanmaster artists, offering collectorsa rare opportunitytoacquiresignificant piecesfrom the country's artistic heritage. Forenquiries, send anemailtosa-artproject@hotmail.com.

SATURDAY 7FEBRUARY

Somerset West:Jointhe SOMERSETWEST UNITARIAN FELLOWSHIP at themeeting room of VonkeHouse in LourensfordRoadat10:00,for an extraordinaryspiritual journeytoThaba-Bosiu, the sacred mountain fortress of Lesotho. Ubuntu-rooted educators and communitydevelopmentpractitioners Theo and Thandi Mayekiso will share fascinating insightsfromtheir recent fact-finding missiontothe site. Thaba-Bosiu, meaning “mountain of the night”, holds profound spiritual,historical and culturalimportancefor the Basotho people. Thepresentation explores the heritageand enduring significanceofthe remarkablemountain that has shapedanation’s identity. Whether you’re interestedinAfricanspirituality,cultural heritageorsimplylove discovering newperspectives,the gathering promises to enlighten and inspire. Allwelcome.CallRev Roux Malanon084 6795466orvisit https://swunitarians.carrd.co

Gordon’sBay: NDIZAGALLERY at Krystal Beach Hotel presents thedebutsoloexhibitionof self-taught artist Andy Louw.First Brush showcasesfearless, uninhibited worksthat celebrate creativityand imagination throughboldcolour andinnovativeshapes. Thelaunch celebrates art without boundaries, proof thatcreativitythrives outsideformal instruction, from 11:00to14:00 Theexhibition catalogueisavailableonrequest. Refreshments willbeserved. RSVP to Michele Sinclair on 076228 5046 or michele@ndizagallery.com

Strand: The NURUL-ISLAM MASJID in Faure Street reaches aremarkablemilestone this year as it celebrates its centenary, 100years of serving the localMuslim community. To commemorate this momentous occasion, themosque willhost aspecial pre-Ramadan Expo at theStrand Town Hall. Theevent promises to bring thecommunity together in celebrationofthis significant anniversary whilst preparing forthe holymonth ahead Formoreinformation about this historiccelebration or to getinvolved, phone Mawlana Hasan Labuschagne on 061 4724211 or Shudley Adams on 084 4343457.

Woordfees soek

Die StellenboschWoordfees het inskrywingsvir sy gewilde kortverhaalkompetisie, met’n hoofprysvan R30 000 virdie wenverhaal, geopen. Die kompetisie, wat nouinsy 11de jaar is,het volgensSaartjie Botha, diedirekteur van die StellenboschWoordfees,’n literêre instelling geword.

“Dit dien as ’n soort jaarboek waarmee Afrikaanseskrywers iets van diespesifieketydsgees metelke oeskortverhale weerspieël,”sêsy.

Die bundelpronk met’nindrukwekkende rekord. Altesaam 2829 verhale is dieafgelope dekade beoordeel, waarvan239 die bundel gehaalhet.Vorige wenners sluitdie bekroonde LynthiaJulius in,terwyl skrywers soos MichèleMeyer, Clari Niemand en HendieGrobbelaar se wenverhale tot Silwerskermfees-kortflieks verwerk is.Tarina Jordaan hetdie 2025-kompetisie gewen.

“Aangesienons 10de bundel in Oktobergepubliseer is,begin onsas’tware’nnuwesiklus,” verduidelikSuzette Myburgh, die sameroepervan die keurpaneel. “Ons hetdie bundelmet inskrywings van hoogstaande gehalte van krag tot krag sien gaan. Onswil alleskrywers opnuutaanmoedigomjul verhale met onstedeel.”

Die skrywervan die wenverhaal wenR30000, terwyl die res vandie skrywers wieseverhale in die bundel opgeneem word, elkeen R5000 kry. Skrywers wie se verhale gekiesword, salin Juliebekendgemaakword, terwyldie wenverhaal tydens die 26ste Stellenbosch Woordfees in Oktoberaangekondigsal word.

Die kompetisieisoop viralle skrywers, maar prysgeldword

TheCapeClassicreturnstoMORGENSTER ESTATE in SomersetWest on FRIDAY13AND SATURDAY 14 FEBRUARY fortwo eveningsofchambermusic featuring internationallyacclaimed musicians Thomas Richter (traverse flute), Karlheinz Busch (violoncello),and South African pianist Erika le Roux Founded over twodecades agobyclassical music patron GabiZahn, this intimatefestivalcombines exceptionalperformances with philanthropy, as all ticket proceeds support educational initiatives for previouslydisadvantaged children in the Western Cape,having raised approximately R2,5 million to date.Set against thestunning backdrop of rolling vineyardsand mountain views, the concerts will present ClassicalEra worksbyHaydn, Mozart,and BeethovenonFridayevening,followedbyEarly Romantic pieces by Donizetti,Chopinand Mendelssohn-Bartholdy on Saturday,with tickets priced at R900 perpersonavailable viaticket-sa@cape-classic.comorbycontacting JudikaNel on 021 8521738.

MAANDAG9 FEBRUARIE

Strand: Die CHRISTELIKE AFHANKLIKHEIDSDIENS,ofChristians Against Drugs (CAD), nooi mensewat problememet middelafhanklikheid hetnahul byeenkomsom19:00 in die kerksaal vandie NG kerk Strand Moedergemeente, op die hoekvan Birkenhead- en Faganstraat.Rig alle navrae aan Gerrie by 073336 3119 of Werner by 082826 0972

slegs in randwaarde betaal en bundeleksemplare wordnet binnelands gestuur.

Skrywers kan oorenige onderwerp skryf. Diebundelsal wel diejaar se feestema as titel hê, maar dítsal eers latervanjaar bekendgemaak word.

Slegs Afrikaanse kortverhale wordaanvaar, en neteen inskrywing perskrywerword toegelaat. Verhalemoettussen 1500 en 3000 woorde lankwees en moet oorspronklikennuutgeskryfwees.

Keuringwordstrenganoniem gedoen. Dieskrywersenaam en kontakbesonderhede moet op dieaanlyn inskrywingsvorm ingevul word, maar niebydie verhaal ingesluit wordnie.Slegs dietitelmoetduidelik sigbaar boaan dieverhaal verskyn. VerhalemoetinMSWord-formaat metgenommerde bladsye aangebiedwordengeenPDF’s salaanvaarwordnie. As enige blatante verwysingnadie skrywerindie teks verskyn, saldit summier gediskwalifiseerword. Niemeernie as 25 verhale sal virdie bundelgekiesword. Kopieregberus by dieskrywers,maarkopiereg van die bundelsetel in die Stellenbosch Woordfees.

Verhalesal voorpublikasie geredigeerword, metgoedkeuring deur dieskrywer. Inskrywingssluitop1April om 17:00 en laatinskrywingssal nieaanvaarwordnie.Inskrywings wordvanaf Maandag 2 Februariemet ontvangs erken. Navrae kan pere-posaan bemarking@woordfees.co.za gerig word, maar slegs skriftelike navraesal beantwoord word. Noginligting en die aanlyn inskrywingsvormisbeskikbaarby www.woordfees.co.za.

FRIDAY 13 FEBRUARY

Somerset West: The UNIVERSITY OF THE THIRD AGE(U3A) proudlypresents the launch of “South AfricaToday”,a newmonthlyinitiative offering an openand inclusiveplatform forknowledgeablespeakers to shareinsights on current South African affairs. This innovative programme focuses on information sharing and perspective exchangewhilst avoiding contentious debates, and also provides opportunities forcommunity members to suggest topical subjectsfor future discussions. Theinauguralsessionwillfeature Anton Bredell, Minister of LocalGovernment, Environment Affairs and Development Planning, who will address “The Challenges and Frustrations of LocalGovernance”.This promisestobe an enlightening presentation offering valuable insights intothe complexities of localgovernment from someone at the heart of provincial administration. Themeeting will take placeat Somerset West United Church, on the corner of Andries Pretorius and Bright Street,from14:00to 15:30.Parking is availableatthe rear of the church building and at the Bright Street entrance, with gatesopening automaticallyupon approach. U3A members arerequested to wear theirmembership cardsand contributeR10,whilenon-members are welcome to attend forR15.

Forregistration and enquiries, contact Danie Schoeman at dschoeman2745@gmail.comorvia WhatsApp on 082783 9582.

SATURDAY 21 FEBRUARY

Somerset West: Artist EstelleKenyoninvites painters of alllevelstoexploremixed mediatechniques at the conferencecentre of the HELDERBERGNATURE RESERVE from 09:30 to 15:30

Theworkshop welcomesbeginner to professional artists, offering guidanceinacrylics, stencils, spray paint and collagework with optional oils in the reserve’snatural setting. TheR750 feeincludes allmaterials, demos, guidanceand light refreshments, though participants areadvised to take their ownlunch. Feel free to book online at www.estellekenyon.com, send aWhatsApp messageto082 9283797oremailestellekenyon017@gmail.com.

Submit communityevents,gatheringsand meetings forthe diarybysendinganemail to jamey.thomas@novusmedia.co.za.

TheRivertones,Cape Town’sbelovedreggaeensemble, bringsthe unifying powerofreggae to TheDrama FactoryonSunday8 February, celebrating icons like Bob Marleyand UB40

Gear up for groovy beats,barrels of fun

The Drama Factory in Strand is set to dazzle audiences this February with an exceptional line-upofentertainment spanning reggae rhythms, Broadway tributes and award-winning comedy.

Founder Sue Diepeveen says the programme is “jampacked withtop-class entertainment” designed to offer something special for every taste. The month kicks off with family-friendly theatre as Grommels takes the stage on Saturday 7and 14 February, featuring Angelique Filter and RobertHindley in an award-winning productionaimed at reconnecting children with the natural world.

Music lovers are in for a

MonstersofRock spectacular (Friday 13 February), featuringclassics fromLed Zeppelin, Queen and DireStraits.

Classical music enthusiasts can enjoy Classy Classics –Faces Of Love on Sunday 15 February,while Broadway fans shouldn’t miss Lisa Bobbert’sbrillianttribute Ethel on Friday20 and Saturday 21 February,celebrating the legendaryEthel Merman. Comedytakes centre stage with Aaron McIlroy’s award-winning ADHD and the musical comedy Bump andGrind,both featuring McIlroy alongside Bobbert. The month concludeswith Wicusvan der Merwe’s Afrikaanscomedy and music evening on Friday 27 Feb-

‘Calendar Girls’ return

The HelderbergAcademy of Theatreisset to warmhearts this monthwiththe return of their acclaimedproduction of Calendar Girls,opening at the PlayhouseTheatre in Somerset West on Valentine’s Day (Saturday 14 February).

The beloved British comedy, based on the true story of 11 Women’s Institute members who famously posed nude for acharity calendar to raise funds for leukaemia research, promises an evening of laughter, friendship and inspiration.

The play follows the extraordinary womenofasmall Yorkshire village who defy societal expectations while demonstrating remarkable courage andcommunity spirit.

At the heart of the story lies the friendship between Annie and Chris, who resolve to raise money for anew sittee in the waiting room of alocal hospitalfollowingthe death of Annie’shusband, John. Their unconventionalfundraising approach–persuading four fellow Women’s Institute members to pose nude for an “alternative” calendar –captures the imagination of the press andcatapultstheir small village into the national spotlight.

But their newfound fame tests the bonds of friendship andcommunity.

Originally based on the Miramax film of the same name, Calendar

Theaward-winning production Calendar Girls is settoreturn to the PlayhouseTheatre stageinFebruary.

Girls premiered at theChichester Festival Theatre in 2009 before becoming the fastest-selling play in British theatre history. Following its successful West End-transfer in 2010, the production continues to tour nationally.

TheSomerset West production marksatriumphant return forthe play, which previouslyenjoyed great success at thePlayhouse in 2014. The production is helmed by directors Darryl Spijkers, known for his work on Scrooge, Curl Up and Dye and Fiddler on the Roof, alongside Jon-Paul Ruschenbaum, whose creditsinclude Paradise Road and Happy Days Are Here Again.Zanodean Cassiem returns as set designer. The stellar cast features Catherine Leah as Annie, thewoman

whose personal loss sparksthe charitable venture, withSimon Jones portraying her latehusband John. Playhouse director GillJones, recognised for her performances in Dracula and TheCrucible,takes on therole of devoted Chris.

Completing theWomen’sInstitute ensemble are Playhouse regulars Gretel le Roux as thespirited Cora, alongside Margot Wood, Jasmine Hazi, Roche Buckle, Siobahn McCallister and CathGoldie. Supporting performances from Zane Habig, William le Roux, Alistair Jones and Mark McCallister promise to drive thenarrative forward withcharacteristic theatrical flair. BookyourseatthroughWebtickets forwhatpromisestobeamemorable celebrationofcommunityspiritandthe powerofordinarypeople.

Fishingisaboutmorethanthecatch

Natureworksslowly, and along the shoresof FalseBay its rhythms have shaped beaches, reefs and fish life forgenerations.

From Strand to Gordon’sBay,anglers and walkers alike have watched theseasons turn, the sand shiftand the fishmove with tides and temperature.

But in recent years, the balancebetween natureand humanactivityhas begun to tiltand the effects are becoming harder to ignore.

Inshorefish such as kob, whitesteenbrasand musselcrackerare particularlyvulnerablealong our coastline,especially in FalseBay.These species live close to shore, grow slowly and depend on specific habitats to feed and breed.

HOOK, LINE&SINKER

Kobmove alongsandy beaches followingbaitfish, whilewhitesteenbras rely on healthysurfzones and sandy flats to work prawns and worms. Musselcracker depend on intact reef systems which harbour mussels, crabsand redbait.When these habitats aredisturbed, the fishfeel it long before we do Nowhereisthis morevisiblethan along Strand beachfront.Large-scale construction,including sea walls and promenade developments, is often necessary to protect infrastructure, but it comesatacost. Hardstructures interrupt natural sand movement, changing howwaves deposit and remove sediment. Over time,beaches narrow or harden, and the soft living surf zone begins to disappear. That surf zone is notjust sand –itishome to sand prawns, bloodworms and countless smallorganisms that form thefoundationofthe food chain. When theseorganisms arelostorreduced,kob move on When thebait disappears, the fish follow What manyanglers experienceas“fish just not being thereanymore” is often the resultofsubtle habitatchanges that beganyears earlier.Thischange is clear to those who have spent their livesnextto thewater.I hear it in the shop daily: howdifficultit has become to catchfish, especially forthose starting their fishing careers Fishing sits directlywithin this changing environment.Itcan either addpressureorhelp reduceit. One of the simplestwaysanglers in FalseBay can

fish moreresponsiblyisbyusing circlehooks. Unlike traditional hooks, circlehooksare designed to hook fish in the corner of the mouth rather than deep in the throat, greatlyimproving survival when fish are released

Having abucket of waterathandisessential when releasing or tagging fish. Keep the fish wetand handle it with awet clothtoavoid removing scales andits natural slime layer, which provides aprotectivebarrier against infection.

Fishtagging offers another wayfor localanglers to activelyprotect the fishery. Throughthe Oceanographic Research Institute’stagging programme, anglers contributevaluabledataonfish growth, movement and survival. In abay like FalseBay,where fish move between sandybeaches, reefsand deeper water, this informationiscritical.

Tagging has helped scientists understandspawning movements, seasonal patterns and the importanceof certain areasasnurserygrounds.

Manyofthe regulations that applyinFalse Bay todayare shaped by this research. Kobare typically limitedtoone fish peranglerper day, with aminimum sizeofaround50cm. Whitesteenbras and musselcracker generally carryminimum sizelimits of 60 cm, also with strict baglimits.

Thesemeasures exist to protect breeding fish and prevent further decline in already pressured stocks.

True conservation, however, goes beyond regulations. Handling fish carefully with wethands, avoiding dragging them over drysand, supporting larger fish

properly, andkeeping them outofthe waterfor as littletime as possible, allmakea real difference. Taking onlywhat is needed, respecting closed areasand understanding whycertainbeaches fish differentlyafter constructionorstorms arepartoffishing stewardship thatwillbevital forfuturegenerations.

Fishing in FalseBay hasalwaysbeen aboutmore thanthe catch; it is aboutreading the water, understanding the land behind the beach andrecognising thateverything is connected. When we harden shorelines, we changecurrents. When currents change, sand moves. When sand life disappears,the fish leave.

Thefutureofkob,whitesteenbras, musselcracker, andall ourinshorespecies in FalseBay –and along the entireSouth Africancoastline –willnot be decided onlybylawsorenforcement,but by howweas recreational and commercialanglers respect and treat the oceanand its fish species.

Thebay is stillalive,but it is paying attention to whatwedo. Thequestioniswhether we arepaying the same attention in return. Ifearthat we areletting FalseBay’s abundant marine life andecosystem slip through our fingersatafar faster rate thanweall think.

Fishing Republic is aconservation-minded fishing store. We strivetoeducate and promotesustainable angling so thatour children andtheir children can enjoythe oceanand its beautiful fish species. Please visit us at 73 Beach Road, Strand,Shop6, HelderbergCentre, or follow @fishingrepublicstore on Instagramor@fishingrepublic on Facebook.