DistrictMail & Helderberg Gazette – E-Edition – 11 March 2026

Welkom,kleinCleo!

JameyGordon

Die spreekwoordelike ooievaar het Maandagoggend (9 Maart) as ’n brandweerspan opgedaag om ’n swanger ma met die geboorte van haar dogtertjie te help.

Emmanuel Ramjoovan die Strand-brandweerstasieensymede-pelotonlede het hul vaardighede metsukses ingespan om die jong ma in kraamdeur die noodgevalte help.

Ramjoo onthou hy en sy span hetpas vir die werksdag aangemeld.Hywas in die kontrolekamer besig met mediese voorraad toedie pa van ’n mede-brandweerman die ma, Zoë Marias, wat saam met familielede was,ingebring het

“Dit was net ná 09:00toe meneerCloete haastig met die pasiënt by die brandweerstasie ingestorm het,” onthou hy. “Nadat hulle aangekomhet, het sy op onsnavraag gesê sy is swanger. Hoewel sy feitliknege maande swangerwas, het sy gesê die baba se geboortedatum is vir Aprilgeskat.Ek het haar familielid gevra of hy enige vloeistof gesien het wat uitgevloei het. Hy het dit bevestig.Gevolglik hetons vermoedhaar waterhet gebreek. Methaartoestemming

Gemeenskap se heldeinuniform

het ek gekykengevind dat diebaba se koppie besig was om te kroon.

“Ditwas haar eerste kind,sosyhet taamlik gesukkel.Terwyl diebaba se koppie deur die baarmoederhals gedruk het, het ek opgemerkdat dienaelstring styf om die baba se nekkiegedraai was.”

Ramjoo het verder verduidelik hoehulle op hul medieseopleiding gesteun het om die lewensgevaarlike situasie te hanteer

“Ons het dienaelstring versigtig van die baba se nekafgetrek, maar sy was effens blou. Onswas bekommerdoor haar suurstoftoevoer.Ons moes diegeboorteversnel en die baba onmiddellikheeltemal uithelp. Toedie baba gebore is,het ons haar gestimuleer en haar kleur het gou verbeter. Teen die tyddat hulle vertrek het, het sy gesondgehuil en selfs al aan diemasebors begin suig.”

ALTYD’NVREUGDE

As ’n brandweerman wat dieafgelope 15 jaarboenbehalwe sy normale pligte ook as ’n gemeenskapswerker en pa opgetreehet,sêRamjoo dat sy eerstereaksie

altyd is om sy opleiding, vaardighede en kennis aan te wend om in noodsituasies te help. Die res kom daarna. “Dit was ’n onbeheerde omgewing, maar ons het daaringeslaagomdie ma se waardigheid deurgaans te beskerm –wat van kardinalebelang is. Om te help met diegeboorte van ’n gesonde baba is altyd ’n vreugde,” sê Ramjoo, watnie eens meer kan onthou hoeveel keer hy al as dokter

EmmanuelRamjoo(derdevanlinks)ensykollegasRafelWozniak,JohanSchutte,PatrickSopaqa,AphiweNonwanaenMarshallNefdt. Foto’s: JameyGordon

“TEEN DIETYD DATHULLE VERTREK HET, HETSY GESOND GEHUIL.”

moes optree nie vir ma’sinkraam wat na die brandweerstasie gekom het in hul uur van nood, en veilig gehelp het dat die baba sy verskyning kon maak. Marias is ná die geboorte in die Macassar-gemeenskapdagsorgsentrum opgeneem, waar sy en die baba deur mediese personeel ondersoek en versorg is voordat hulle huis toe kon gaan. Marias onthou sy het die heeltyd vir haar ma gesê: “Ek voel nie reg nie,” maar haar ma en ’n tante het haar oortuig dat die baba waarskynlik net draai.

“Ek was nie oortuig nie, want ek weet hoe dit voel wanneer die baba draai. My rug was seer. My ma het al die warmsakke wat sy kon kry, gebring om die pyn te verlig, maar niks het gehelp nie. Ek sê toe weer:‘Mammie, ek sukkel al die hele nag; ietsvoel nie reg nie.’ Toe hulle besef ek wil druk, toe besef hulle ek gaan kraam. Ek het net ná 09:00 erge pyne gekry. Hulle het die oom langsaan geroep en hy het ons te hulp gekom. Hy wou ons nog na die Helderberg-hospitaal neem, maar toe sê ek:‘Ek kan nie meer nie.’ Onshet toe besluitom by die brandweerstasie te stop vir hulp.” Volgens Marias was almal baie behulpsaam en bedagsaam, en sy spreek weer eens haar opregte dank uit aan elkeen wat gehelp het.

Dawid Cloete onthou dat die bure hom om hulp gevra het en hy het sonder huiwering gehelp. “Ek het onmiddellik opgetree. Ek is bly ek kon hulle bystaan.” Marias deel verder dat haar dogtertjie 2,99 kg geweeg het en Cleo genoem is.

Slagoffers wagnog ná Kersdag

BarendWilliams

Die slagoffers van die Kersdagbrand in Sir Lowry’s Pass hethul eise uitgebrei na tydelike erwe terwyl die verskeie regeringsvlakke oor verantwoordelikhede verskil.

Dit is nadat die brandslagoffers op Woensdag18Februarievroeg die oggend in dié gemeenskap bande in protes aan die brand gesteek het om die verkeer te blokkeer, maar owerhede het die betoging later stopgesit.

Die 30 inwoners is steeds haweloos nadat die brand vyf strukture vernietig het. Die slagoffers het hul frustrasies uitgespreek en beweerdie StadKaapstadhet twee maandegeledeboumateriaalaan hulle belowe. Nou eis die groep toestemmingom tydelikestrukture op een vandie vele onbesette erwe in die gebiedop te rig terwyl hullevir die materiaal wag.

Petrolene “Sister Lee” Alberts, ’n gemeenskapsleier in SirLowry’s Pass, voel dis’ngeleentheid vir die Stad om die inwonerssteeds te help. “Dis hoe hulle kan help sonder om in die nasionale departement se saketekrap,” verduidelik sy. EvolinoIsaacs van die National Coloured Congresshet ’n vergaderingaangevra, wat op Dinsdag 24 Februarie deurdie slagoffers en amptenare vandie Stad se informele nedersettings-bestuurbygewoon is.

Tydens die samekoms het die slag-

Cityservices in Helderzicht

The City of Cape Town’s Mobile Office wheels into SomersetWest tomorrow (Thursday 12 March), bringing municipal servicesdirectly to residents’ doorsteps. The office will be stationed at Helderzicht Sports Complex in De Beers Avenue from 09:30 to 13:30.

offers hul versoek vir erwe amptelik gerig

Die Stad-amptenare het egter die versoek afgeskiet en verduidelik die departement het nie die mandaat om toestemming te verleen nie.

Hulle het blykbaar bygevoeg dat enigeoprigting van strukture as onwettige besettingbeskou sou word.

In plaasdaarvan is die slagoffers ingelig hulle is net geregtig op sekere boumateriaal, onderhewig aan goedkeuring.

Volgens die Stad se burgemeesterskomiteelid vanmenslike nedersettings, Carl Pophaim, is die nasionale departement vanmenslike nedersettings verantwoordelik om boumateriaal aanbrandslagoffers te verskaf.

Hy beweer die Stad het reeds op Maandag 29Desemberaldie nodige inligting formeel by die nasionale departement ingedien.

“Die Stad doen ’n beroep op die nasionale departement om spoedig te werk om die gesinne wat deur die brand geraak is, by te staan,” het Pophaim gesê.

Tsekiso Machike, ’n woordvoerder vir die nasionale departement vir menslike nedersetting, het gesê hulle het nie genoeg inligtingvan die Stadontvang nie, wat die ingryping van nasionale amptenare bemoeilik.

Hyhet egterbygevoeg ’n plaaslike span sal nog ’n verifikasieproses onderneem om die proses sodoende te versnel.

The City’s Customer Relations Department teamwill assist residents with electronically logging queries andservice requests, includinghelp with rates, water, electricity and refuse accounts. Theservice focuses on resolving non-emergency municipalenquiriesinresidents’ own neighbourhoods. Residents are advisedtotake alongeither their identity documents or municipal account statements.

BlazeatStables

JameyGordon

Vergelegen and allits facilities remain fully operational, welcoming both locals andvisitors.

This according to CEO Wayne Coetzer following adevastating firethat brokeout at the Somerset West wine estate’s popular restaurant last Tuesday (3 March).

FrankForbay, spokesperson for theCity of Cape Town’s Fire andRescue Service, confirmed it hadreceived an emergency call at 15:46. “Six fire engines, twowater tankers and35firefighters were dispatched, along with an Incident Management Team,”hesaid.

“Onarrival crews found thethatchedroof kitchen engulfed in flames.”

All patrons andstaff were safely evacuated by 15:23, with no injuries reported. The incident was declared closed at 01:42 on Wednesdaymorning (4 March).

Coetzer praised the swift response. “Our safety officer alerted emergency services who responded immediately.”

The estate also deployedits ownresources. “We have afire team and immediately

deployed our state-of-the-art fire truck.”

Safety protocols included “sprinklers, fire truck deployed immediately, fire hoses, safety officers and calls to outside providers,”while guestswere protected as “the area was cordoned offimmediately”. While therestaurant was saved, the kitchen was completely destroyed, and the floors and ceilings having sustained water damage throughout.

“The fire [suspectedly] started between thekitchen slab and thatch; theinitial scene was asmallamount of smoke coming from under thethatch. Despiteroof sprinklers activating immediately and our fire truck on scene within minutes, thefire

Le Roux likes likeness

JameyGordon

It was asignature moment for local artist Dennis Woest when theHelderberg’s beloved SpringbokWillie le Rouxsigned his portrait at Old Bridge Tavern in Somerset West last Thursday morning (5 March).

The intimate gathering at the traditional English-style restaurant and bar, located on the corner of Main and Gordon roads, was arrangedbyownerDanie vander Berg. Both he and Woest were thrilled to welcome the region’s rugby golden boy for the signing, thefirst glimpse ofhis own portrait.

It forms partofWoest’s ambitioustribute to South Africa’s rugby heritage throughlargescaleoil paintings of rugby legends, including Rugby World Cup-winning captains Francois Pienaar, John Smit andSiya Kolisi (“Somerset West artist’s ode to local rugby greats,” DistrictMail &Helderberg Gazette, 16 July 2025).

Each portrait is personally signed by its rugby star on both sides for authentication.

Woest began the collection following the 2023Rugby World Cup and it has already

achievedcommercial success. Rand Merchant Bank purchased the SiyaKolisiportrait for its London office, whileVan der Berg acquired both the Francois Pienaar piece –strategically released to mark the 30th anniversaryofthe Springboks’ historic 1995 World Cuptriumph –and portraits of Rassie Erasmus, JohnSmit and Os du Randt.

METICULOUSLYDETAILED

“They areall from the area, or live in the area andfrequent the OldBridgeTavern,” explained Woest,highlighting the local connection that makes these artistictributes particularlymeaningful.

Each oil paintingrequires meticulous attention to detail, with Woestspending an average of one to two weeks per portrait. Next on his easelwill be local rugbyheroSteven Kitshoff,the next additionto hisgrowing collection

The response fromOld Bridge Tavern patronsseeing these rugby legendsimmortalised on the walls has been“quite phenomenal,”shared Woest.

Van derBergrecalled meeting the artistbychance and beingstruckbyhis talent. After purchasing aninitial piece he commissionedmore works to ex-

Springbok star WillieleRouxbringshis portraittolifewithhis signature.

pand the restaurant’s collection. Explaining the inspiration, Van der Berg noted the restaurant andpub celebrated sport, particularly rugby. “We’ve welcomed many rugby legends through ourdoors and, given my close friendshipwith Willie’sfather, this portrait was an obvious additiontoour collection.”

Le Roux said he thoroughly enjoyed being back on home soil forthe signing event and wascaptivated by the beautiful portrait. His proudparents have expressed interest in commissioning their own artwork from the artist.

ForWoest this project represents more than just commercial success; it’s deeplyperson-

al. “I love rugby,havingplayed myself. Rugby hasbeenthe greatest nation-building event ever.

“Havingwon the Rugby World Cup notoncebut fourtimes,it continues to bring ournation together consistently.”

PORTRAITUREWILLCONTINUE

This passion drivesWoest’s ambitious plans to expand his collection significantly. He aims to paint all playersand coaches fromSouth Africa’s fourRugby WorldCup-winningteams, a totalof53portraits he hopes to completebefore the 2027 tournament.

“I wanttodoall the players andcoaches of ourwinning

Springboks from the lastfour RWCs.”

Woest, optimistically, plans to include the “Winning Class of 2027” andwomen’s rugby playersinhis tribute.

Achieving this monumental goal, however, requires financial backing. Woestacknowledges needing asponsor or investor to dedicate himself full-time to “recordingour historyina positive manner”

Whilerugby dominates his currentfocus hisartisticpassion extendsbeyond sport. “Besidesrugby Ialsopaint musicians, anotherofmypassions.”

Theartist alsocontinues taking commissions for custom portraits

ShowsupportforLogan

JameyGordon

The parents of local teenager Logan Versteegh are turning to the community for help after their son was diagnosed with akidneycondition that could causepermanentdamagewithout urgent surgery.

The13-year-old Gordon’s Bay Primary School learnerhas been diagnosed with Ureteropelvic Junction (UPJ) obstruction, where ablockage prevents urine from properly drainingfrom the kidney to thebladder.The resulting buildup can cause permanent kidneydamage if left untreated.

For his parents, Lizl and Eugene, seeking public assistance was challenging but necessary.

The family’s medical journey began late last year, when Logan was rushed to hospital with severe back pain and fever. Initially treated forasuspected urinary tract infection, symptoms returned more intensely in January. “Logan camehomefrom school with severe back pain and fever. This time the pain wasso intense that he was curled up in pain,” his mother recalled.

AGP’s scan showed Logan’s enlarged kidney, leading to specialist referrals. Although follow-up scans initially appeared normal, his condition worsened last month. Comprehensive tests confirmed the blockage,leading to his diagnosis. “After returning home from Tygerberg Hospital, Iremember sitting down with my husband and sayingthat as

Lizl and Eugene Versteegh with theirson, Logan.

parents we have to do absolutely everything to give ourson the best care possible,” Lizl recalled.

The family, who typically help others rather than seek assistance, foundthemselves in unfamiliarterritory. “Starting a crowdfunding campaign was not an easy decision. We have always tried tohelp others where we can.”

But witnessing their son’scondition forced them to reconsider.

“Seeing Logango through this madeusrealise that sometimes you have to put yourpride aside when it comes to your child’s health.”

Logan’s case is unusual as UPJobstruction typically affects adultsover 30.Since diagnosis, the normally active teenager has endured increasedpain,fevers anddifficult hospital visits.

Surgery urgency depends on upcomingMAG3 scan results showingkidney function levels. If compromised function is detected,

surgery must proceed immediately to prevent further damage. Doctors warn delayed treatment risks permanent kidney damage, but assure the family this surgery has excellent success rates with afour to six-week recovery period.

“Our biggest hope is that Logan cansimply return to being a normal teenager. He lovessport, especially rugby and hockey. We want him to getbackonthe field, spend time with friends and enjoy being young without pain or limitations,”Lizl shared.

The surgery andrelated medicalcare costs overR200 000. Withoutmedicalaid, the family relied on monthly savingsbut didn’t anticipate such expenses.

They explored public healthcare but found it overwhelming, opting for private care. Having spent overR30 000 on diagnosis andtesting,with R15 000 in upcoming costs, they are aboutR180 000 short.

Logan is a“gentle giant” with a kind heart. He dreams of becoming arugby coachand enjoys watching Formula 1with his father.

His life hasdramatically changed, as he carries pain medication to school and hasmissed rugby practices, trials andtournaments as well as school days.

Beyond financial support, the family values prayers andpositive thoughts.

TosupportLogan’sjourney,visit https://www.backabuddy.co.za/ campaign/help-logan-get-life-changing-kidney-surgery;orsendanemailto lizl@drainmen.co.za.

Used bookscan addvalue

Do you havegently used books gathering dust on your shelves?

Transformtheminto treasures thatbring joy, comfort andadventurefor the residents of Sencit Resthavenin Strand.

As part of theCSV ConstructionLegacy Day,which will be heldatthe home for the aged on Saturday 28 March, the DistrictMail & Helderberg Gazette team will build alibrary to enrich the daily livesofthe home’s 32

elderlyresidents. Donations of fiction, non-fiction, large-print books,magazines and any well-lovedreads in good shapeare welcome. Every donated book becomes agiftofconnection-–helping these elderlyneighbours stay mentally activewhilegiving your belovedbooks ameaningful new home. To arrangefor collection,call Annes vanGeems on 078070 1816 or drop off your donations at the newspaper's office at 37 Mynhardt Street,Gants Centre,Strand.

Donated aids to improvemobility

Sencit ResthavenHome forthe Aged in Strand, under the banner “Older Lives Matter,” received agenerous donation of much-needed mobilityaids at the endof February,reinforcing the community’s commitment to caring forits elderlyresidents.The donation wasmadebyLeslie Lane from OmkhuluOffice Solutions, also amember of the Gordon’sBay Business Association (GBBA) who handedover essential equipment to support residents’ dailymobilityand comfort.The items donatedinclude three walkers, an aluminiumwheeled walker,aluminium stand, araised toilet seat,crutchesand walking sticks. Thesepractical items will greatlyassist residents who require additional support with movement andindependence. Sencit Resthaven provides care and services to some of the most vulnerablemembers of society –thefrail, aged, physically disabledand destituteindividualsoverthe ageof60. Theorganisation continues to rely on communitypartnershipsand donations. At the handover(from left) areLeslie Lane with Sister Suraya Gafieldien.

Probe after decomposedbodyfound

Somerset West policehaveopened an inquest docket after abody was found among densevegetationina wetland near the golf courseand bird sanctuaryonthe border of Somerset West and Strand on Tuesday3March. According to policespokesperson Warrant OfficerSuzan Jantjies, officers were following up on information received in connection with amissing person report when theymade the discovery.The body wasfound in the densely vegetatedwetland area off Broadway Boulevard,nearthe intersection withVictoria Road. When DistrictMail &HelderbergGazette accessed the scenevia apathway into theroadside area,the discovery wasmade in what appearedtobeanovergrown ditch. Although it is suspected thatthe deceasedmay be awoman who reportedly went missing last month,Jantjies said:“Thebody is in adecomposedstate anda post-mortem willdetermine the causeofdeath and genderofthe deceased.” Anyone with information is urgedtocontact the Somerset West DetectiveBranch on 021 850 1302. Pictured arepoliceofficers atthe scene. Photo: JameyGordon

City managerentraps

ACity of Cape Town contractor was arrested at Waterstone Village shopping centre in Somerset West in apolice sting operation last Tuesday (3 March).

City manager Lungelo Mbandazayo acted as an undercover agent, receivingR1,4 million in cash allegedly offered as a bribe to retain the contractor’s municipal contracts and halt internal investigations. Commercial Crime Investigation Unit officers immediately intervened, seizing the cash,amobile device and aToyota bakkie.

The 51-year-old suspect appeared in the Cape Town Magistrates’ Court last Thursday (5 March). The case was postponed until Thursday 12 March for bail information. The arrest follows aprevious operation at

TableBay Mall,where the same company directoroffered R4 million in gratification

Thejoint investigationbegan in March last year after a whistleblowerreported alleged collusion between municipal employeesand service providers in tenderfraud.

Mayor Geordin Hill-Lewis commended the City manager’s bravery, emphasising the municipality’s“zero-tolerance approach” to corruption. Police confirmed morearrests are expected

Theoperationrepresents anothersuccess inanti-corruption efforts underMbandazayo’s leadership since2018, during which National Treasury has blacklisted more thana dozen front companies

Vispol head is ready

Barend Williams

“Itismypassion.”

These four words explain whyLieutenant-Colonel Noxolo Patience Rulwahas brought 21 years of policing experience to leadStrand’s visible policing unit.

“I’mhere to fight crime, so I look forward to working with the community to do this,”the precinct’snew Vispolcommander says.

Rulwastarted her new role at the stationonSaturday 14 February andhas since not only talked the talk but walked the walk by maintaining high police visibility.

The51-year-old hasparticipated in the station’s Victim Empowerment Programme,joined the Khayelitsha Sub-district Community Policing Forum Super Friday patrols, andattended the Strand Community Policing Forum’s (CPF) first meeting of the year–all within her first two weeks in the position.

While for somethis would be seen as an achievement, forher it represents the fulfilment of alifelong dream that began in ruralEastern Cape.

Rulwawas born andraised in Tsomo in the Eastern Cape, an area she describes as small but beautiful, explaining that she hadnever seen abig town in her formative years. Growing up, she told her parents she would becomea police official

in Knysna –abolddeclaration fromsomeonewho hadnever left the countryside anddidn’t even know whereKnysna was After matriculating in 1994, she movedtoCapeTown to further hereducation.When finances derailed herhigher education dreams, sheworked as aserver at arestaurantwhile obtainingher driving licence –arequirementfor joiningthe police service.

This ledher backtothe Eastern Cape whereshe enrolled at the Bisho South African Police Service Academy for basic training.She was partofthe last groupofofficerswho completed training before the country’s transition to democracy,earning the cohortthe nickname “the old law”.

“When Ifirst started,I was excited to help andserve the community because IknewI hadthe ability to do so,” Rulwa recalls.

WhileservingatMitchells Plain PoliceStation,she completed herDiploma in PolicingatTshwaneUniversity of Technology beforebeing promotedtosergeant. Herfirst taste of Vispol command came at Strandfontein, followedby successful stints at Heidelberg andHararepolicestations. “I wanttoserve the community on the frontline,”she explains With Rulwa’s appointment, the top structure of Strand PoliceStation is complete after ColonelJacqui Johnsonjoined as station commander lastNovember (“Polisie-hoof pak misdaadmet hart”, DistrictMail & Helderberg Gazette,14January)

“Having aVispol commander is criticaltoachieving our goals,and Ican already seethe difference Lieutenent-Colonel Rulwa is making,” said Johnson.

For Rulwa,Strandpresents nothing shehasn’tencountered at previouspostings. Sheis prepared to tackle challenges with provenmethods,including school outreaches whichshe employedinHeidelberg.

Herstrategy focuses on maximising operational deployment across the precinct and strengtheningpartnerships with the CPF andexternal stakeholderstocombat crime.“To the Strandcommunity: Ipromise to keepworking with you,and my doorisalways open. Iamhere to fight crime, so we need to work together.”

Bridgewater is ‘gatvol’

Yaseen Gaffar

Residents livingalongthe banksofthe Lourens River, particularlybetween Main Road and AndriesPretorius Street in Bridgewater, have reached breaking point.

Whatwas once ascenic waterway has reportedly transformed into ahub for criminal activity, illegal dumping andaggressive homelessness,leaving locals feelinglike prisoners in their own homes.

The situation is particularly dire for aneighbouring residential complex, where the average age of occupants is 72. Residents report constant harassment and noise as individualsmove through the area at all times.

“They start begging andharassing people in our complex as soon as theysee someone,” one resident shared, highlighting the use of “trolley-bath” contraptions – old bathtubs mounted on shopping trolley frames – used to transport and sort stolen plastic bags.

The remains of thebags are allegedly often discarded along the river banks, leaving residents to manage the clean-up

The persistentthreatofbreakins has forcedhomeowners to take drastic measures. One complex recently replaced 110m of traditional mesh fencing with high-security fencing after several break-ins.

Frequent entreaties to Law Enforcement have not been met with great response, hampered perhaps by budget and man-

power constraints. “By the time they gethere, the damageis done,” alocal alleged

TheCity of Cape Town has providedseveral updates regardingthe management of this stretch of the Lourens River

Zahid Badroodien, Mayoral Committee member forWater and Sanitation, confirmedactive measuresare underway, includinglitter removal last month.

“A dedicated team is currently working alongthe Lourens River to address ongoinglittering andillegal dumping concerns.

Aplanned maintenance project to clear invasive and overgrown vegetationisscheduled to commence on 16 March.Inaddition toplanned stormwaterworks, reactive maintenance interventions willcontinue to be implemented as and whenrequired to addressemergingissues.”

WayneDyason,spokesperson forCity Law Enforcement, acknowledgedthe challenges.

“Officershave responded to various calls overthe past six months and enforcedvarious municipal bylaws at the location. The matter is receiving attention and the Law EnforcementDepartment hasinitiated meetingswith other City departments to findasustainable solution.”

Addressingcalls forimproved lighting inthe area, the City said: “TheCity’sstreet lighting policy allows onlyfor streetlights to be installed alonga public road or whereawalkway is attachedtoapublicroad alongthe walkway.”

Windeindabaintown

JameyGordon

Strand Town Hall waspacked withresidents last Thursday (5 December) as Western Cape premierAlan Winde,accompanied by provincial cabinet and City of Cape TownMayoral Committee members, brought government services directlyto the local community.

Thevisit formed part of the Winde’s First Thursday initiative, designed to give residents direct access to seniorgovernment officials right on their doorstep.

During the two-and-a-half-hour session, residents could address their concerns, queries andsuggestions directly to decision-makers throughfive-minute, one-ononeconsultations on afirst-come, first-served basis.

Each resident completed a quick on-siteregistrationto access the sessions, with amaximum of two people allowedper consultation.

Thevenue, located on the corner of Main Road andFagan Street, featured multiple inquiry desks staffed by various departments, including the Western Cape Department of Education (WCED), South African Social Security Agency (SASSA) andthe Police Ombudsman.

When asked aboutthe initiative, Winde’s spokespersonRegan Thaw explained thatFirst Thursdays was introduced several years ago when the premier was still a provincial minister.

“The idea was to bring the Western Capegovernment closer to residents, which is why we take it ‘on theroad’asoften as possible,” said Thaw.“That’s why the March2026 edition of First Thursdays was held in Strand.

In the past we have held sessions in Mitchells Plain, Langa and Grassy Park –toname but afew locations.”

The initiativeoffers residents direct engagement opportunities with senior officials. “Residents can raisewhatever issues, challenges and ideas they have with the provincial government’s Cabinet and Mayoral Committee members,” Thaw noted

“This could be anything, from service delivery concerns to suggestions on improving services, dealing withcrime or starting a business –the range of matters is diverse.”

While Thaw could not provide specific details about attendance numbers, outcomes or thenature of complaintsraised at thetime

of enquiry, he confirmed that “the number of people who take advantage of First Thursdays varies, but [last week’s] was well attended”.

He further explained that all issues raised are addressed to thebest of boththe provincial government and council’s ability. “Some matters may fall outside thepurview of theWestern Cape government,but we still do our best to resolve them,”he said

“The highlightsfor thepremier are theopportunitytomeet people, engage withresidentsand try to find solutions. He deeply values all theissues raised withhim and his government.”

Subcouncil 8chairperson ChantalCerfontein expressed pride in thesuccessful First Thursday event –the first ever held in the Helderberg region.

“We were honoured to host the premier, provincial cabinet, and Mayoral Committeemembers,” said Cerfontein, who plans to host theinitiative quarterly

HPSpicture perfect after72years

TheHelderberg Photographic Society (HPS), based in Somerset West, is proudly celebrating 72 years of bringing photographers togetherin aspirit of creativity, friendship and shared passion.

Founded in 1954, HPS hasgrowninto avibrant community of photographers fromall walks of life. While the club is amember of the PhotographicSociety of SouthAfrica, it has deliberately chosenarefreshingly informal approach to competitions and member development.

Unlikemany traditional clubs that focus on star ratings and structured advancement,HPS placesthe emphasis on artistic vision, creative growthand the joy of photography itself.

At the heart of the societyisafun and friendly atmosphere. Members

rangefrom seasoned photographers to enthusiastic beginners, creating a rich mix of styles and genres, from fine art and portraiture to landscapes and wildlife photography. Thisdiversity not onlystrengthens the club,but also ensures that there is alwayssomething newto learn and explore.

Ahighlight of the club’s calendar is itsregular club evenings, where members showcase their work in two categories: an open categoryand aset subject. These evenings encourage creativity while offering gentle guidance and constructivefeedbackinasupportive environment.

HPS hosts abi-monthlyblackand white photography evening, where members demonstrate justhow powerfuland beautiful life can be without colour.These evenings celebrate light, shadow, contrastand emotion, remind-

ing everyone thatsometimes less truly is more.

For those whoenjoy storytelling through imagery, the club also offers abi-monthly audiovisual evening which allows memberstopresent their work in acreativemultimedia format, combining photographs with music and narrative to create compelling visual journeys.

Regularday tripsand weekend outingsformanother important part of the HPS calendar, giving members a chance to practise their craft in beautiful surroundings whilealso building meaningful connections with fellow photographers.

The society’s monthlymeetings provide awelcoming space where members can share images, exchange ideas, learn fromone another and enjoy being partofasupportive creative

community. Its focus is clear: to grow acommunity of photographers and to show both experienced and new photographers that there is always room to learn, experiment and develop. Photography is not only for professionals, but also for anyone with acamera and adesire to see the world differently. Anyone with an interest in photography, whether hobbyist or aspiring professional, is invited to join and become part of thislong-standing local legacy. Monthly meetings are held at the United Church hall, on the corner of Bright and Andries Pretorius streets in Somerset West, at 19:15 on the second Tuesday of each month.

 Formoreinformation, visit the HPSFacebook page or https://helderbergphoto.com/. Alternatively, contact Carimavan den Berg on 082608 8364 or send an email to helderbergphoto@gmail.com.

sondisplay

xhibitions areondisplay at and Café 1865, in Somerset to visit both the venues, nts neededatBroadlands aon084 548 5441. Café enko (left) and Geraldine ndaysaweek and those canalsoorder ameal nu.

Komdans saam vir Huis Marie Louw

Geniet ’n heerlike aand se dans, gesels en ’n aandete saam met die Klipwerf Orkes, ten bate van ACVV Huis Marie Louw in Somerset-Wes. Kom ondersteun hierdie spesiale geleentheid en help om ’n verskil in die plaaslike gemeenskap te maak.

Die geleentheid word hierdie Saterdag (14Maart) om 19:00 by die Strand-stadsaal, op die hoek van Faganstraat en Hoofweg, aangebied.

 Kaartjies, teen R350 per persoon, kanslegs vooraf gekoop word deur Marietjie by 082920 1265 te bel.

Lede vandie Gustrouw Stars wataan die netbaltoernooi deelgeneemhet.Van links: GhaneefahEngelbrecht,Aimee vanWyk, Kelly-Ann Botha,ZahraRhoda enTammy Wood. Foto’s:JameyGordon

Netballiefdehier

JameyGordon

Die behoefte aan ’n netbalklub in Strand, waar spelers van alle ouderdomme hul vaardighede kan ontwikkel en ’n passievir die sport kan deel, het die gemeenskapslid Ellen Klazen vyf jaar gelede gemotiveeromStrand United te stig.

“Di weerspieël die idee die

Motoristekaalborsgelok

JameyGordon

Motorbestuurders in Broadway Boulevard is Saterdagoggend (7 Maart) vermaak deur ’n ongewonespektakel –geesdriftige Hoërskool Strand-rugbyseuns wat sonder hemde en in tutu’s en anderkleurvolle uitrustings verkeer na hul karwassery probeer lokhet Volgens ’n skoolwoordvoerder hou die Hoërskool Strand jaarliks ’n karwassery as deel van hul geldinsameling vir rugbytoere wat tydens die Maart-vakansie plaasvind

Die verskillende ouderdomsgroepegaan na verskillende bestemmings –die o.14’s na Outeniqua,die o.15’s na Paarl, dieo.16’s na die Hoërskool Jeppe in Johannesburg en die o.19A- en B-spanne na die NMI Toyota Noord/Suid-toernooi by die Afrikaanse HoërSeunskool (Affies) in Pretoria.

Die koste vir hierdie toere wissel tussen R3800 en R7600 per speler, met ’n sperdatum vanMaandag 16 Maart vir betalings. Tydens die karwassery is elke ouderdomsgroepverantwoordelik vir ’n spesifieke stap in die proses, terwyl die o.15’s hul eie inisiatief geneem het om karre by die verkeerslig aan te lok.

Die skool het ook andergeldinsamelingsaktiwiteite deur die jaar vir verskeie sportsoorte, insluitend twee rondes van ’n aandreeks op Woensdag11en18Maart Dieskool is steeds op soek na borge en

Agter(vanlinks) is JP Oosthuizen,Juan-Louis Prins, Renaldo Newton, LianFouché,LucianJulius en Liam Graaff;(voor)Ashlin Engelbrecht,PJNortjé,JohagenNobleenBarendKotze. Foto:JameyGordon

bykomende bydraes van diegemeenskap om alle kinders te help om aan hierdie waardevolle toere deel te neem.

Die karwassery was volgens diewoordvoerder suksesvol.“Die spelers het baie gees onder mekaar gebou en die gemeenskap het dit baie geniet.’nPaar skenkings is ontvang, wat ons by die fonds bygevoeg het.”

Motoriste het positief gereageer met foto’s en getoet,enbaie het later teruggekom vir motorwas. Ongeveer 100 karre is gewas, maar die geld is nog nie opgetel nie.

Die volgendefondsinsamelingsaktiwiteit is die Aandreeks, waar volgens die woordvoerder “fantastiese rugby gespeel word”.

Newpartners unlockracedream

YaseenGaffar

Strand Athletics Club (SAC) officially announced ahigh-profile partnership with Balwin Properties duringakit unveiling eventatthe Strand Golf Club lastWednesday (4 March).

The relaunch isn’t just about anew logo –it’s astrategicmove to bolster athlete developmentand reclaim the club’s pre-pandemic momentum.

Securing acorporate sponsorofthis magnitudeisnosmall accomplishment.

SAC chairperson Frans Kotze said the deal placesthe club in an elite bracket

“To obtain any sponsorship is hard,” Kotze noted. “Only about five out of the 110 clubs in the Western Cape have asimilar corporatepartnership. This relaunch is a celebration of that vision.”

For the club’s members, this means more than just aname on ajersey. The resourcesprovided by Balwin Properties are set to drastically expandthe club’s reach, particularlythrough its Development Structure and Fund.

The fund is specifically designed to support previouslydisadvantaged members by covering entryfeesfor prestigious races, including ultra-marathons such as theComrades and Two Oceans, major road races such as the Cape Town, Peninsula

and Red Hill marathons, as well as other Winelandsevents.

While the club currently boasts 250 paidup members, the goal is to return to –and exceed –the heights of 2019, when the club supported over 450 runners.

The leadership believes the “new look” and the stability provided by Balwin will act as amagnet for both elite talent and casualjoggers in the Strand area

The club’s roots trace back to Johann Diener, aformer Helderberg Harriers member who recognised the need for a dedicated running home for the Strand community. While the sponsorship brings afresh identity, the “DNA” of theclub is unchanged.

Kotze emphasised that the club’smission and core values –honesty, integrity, respect and dedication –are non-negotiable

Even as aleadership transition looms, thetransition is expected to be seamless.

“Change in leadership will not take place immediately,” Kotze clarified. “Our constitution stipulates achairman’s term ends afterthree years, which concludesfor me this August. At the annualgeneral meeting,members are nominated and elected annually to serve the committee.”

The club planstoattract new members through word of mouth andbymaintaining avisible, positive presence in the local sports landscape.

Straatkrieketligakeerterug

Macassar Premierliga Krieket,’nsosialestraatkrieketliga watopSondae in Macassar plaasvind, hetnadie strateteruggekeer en bewysdit is ’n gewilde tydverdryf onder die plaaslikeinwoners. Tien spanne is reeds geregistreer,wat meer as 80 spelers en dosyne meer ondersteuners lok. WilliamKlaasen, die president van die liga,het gesê die liga het dosyne jongmensegehelp om ’n passie wathulle werklikgeniet,tevind. Hy meen ook diespelers het drasties verbeter en stel hul vaardighede week ná week tentoon. “Onsgaan ’n raadspan (boardteam) kies watteen ’n raadspan vanStellenboschenRaithbygaan speel. Groot dingeis besig om te gebeurendie liga groeivinnig,”sêKlaasen.Ommet die organiseerders in aanraking te komof virnavraeoor borgskappe,kontak Klaasenby079 7222409.

y( ).

Woensdag,11Maart 2026

Promotiononthecards

Macassar CC only localclubtowin

Yaseen Gaffar

The air at the Macassar Sports Ground was thick with anticipation this past Saturday (7 March), as Macassar Cricket Club (MCC) padded up for their final First Division Dfixture of the season against Khayelit sha CC.

With apotentialsecond consecutive promotion on the line, the home side delivered a clinical performance to secure avital bonus-point victory. After the visitors won the toss and opted to field, Macassar faced an early setback when openerDavid Sebastian was dismissed in the third over.

However,fellowopener Michael Valentine provided thenecessary stability, anchoring thetop order with acomposed 29 runs.

The momentum shifted dramatically when captain Rowayne Sinden and pinch hitter Peter Samuels united at the crease. The pairdismantled the Khayelitsha CC attack, scoring 41 and 39 respectively. Theiraggressive partnership propelledMCC to a formidable total of 194/10, setting the visitorsachallenging target of 195 runs Khayelitsha’s chasegot off to adisastrous start, stumbling to 15/3 by the fifth over as Macassar’s seamers found their rhythm early. While Onke Kholwana played astellar lone hand withagritty 60 runs and AneleYam added 25 runs, therest ofthe battersstruggled to find answers forMCC’sdisciplined attack.

The standout performer with the ball en Jantjies, who finished with nal figuresof2/20. Khayelitsha eventually bowledout in the39th over,handing Macassar acomprehensivewin.

LIKELYPROMOTION

With thisvictory, MCC comfortably holds second positiononthe logwith50 points. They are currently six points clear of the third-placed team, who only has one fixtureremaining. Mathematically,it impossible for the chasing pack the gap,meaning Macassar taste the sweetness of promotion for thesecond season running.

However, the club awaits the official

league confirmation to begintheir celebrations in earnest.

In FirstDivision B, Somerset West CC (SWCC) slipped to anarrow16-run defeat againstBishop Lavis CC on the road.

SWCC’s decision to fieldfirst paid earlydividendsasthey restricted Bishop Lavis to 159/10 in 40.2 overs. Armand Swartled the attack with precision to finishwithimpressive figures of 3/38.

The run chase began with purposeas Lloyd Simpson looked in sublime touch, scoring acommanding 47 runs. Contributions by WilhelmEsterhuizen(22) and Scott Innes (19) keptthe scoreboard ticking, butthe momentum shiftedas the BishopLavisattack begantostrike back.

Despite being wellwithin striking distance, SWCClosttheir finalwickets in quick succession,eventually being bowledout for 143 in the 38th over

In First DivisionC,aclinical batting display powered VikingsCCtoa54-run victory overHelderberg CC (HCC) at Helderzicht Sports Ground

Afterwinning thetossand electing to bat in theshortened match, Vikings took full advantageofthe conditions to post aformidable 212/6intheir allotted32overs. The HCC bowlersworked hard to break partnerships, with Dexter Hindley(3/14) emerging as the standout performer.

In response, HCC’s chase washeadlined by amagnificent solo effortfrom TyronAbrahams,who anchoredthe inningswith agritty 86 off 94 balls, but themounting required run-rate proved too much for thehosts.

HCC eventually finished their 32 overs on 158/6, falling54runs short of thetarget.

 This weekend SWCC willfaceUCT at Radloff Park on Saturday (14March) and Varsity CollegeonSunday(15 March).