DistrictMail & Helderberg Gazette – E-Edition – 18 February 2026

As February transforms the Helderberg into a canvas of connection and affection, this is what Valentine’s Day (Saturday 14 February) looked like for siblings Rayhano Philander and Naeelah Malgas, sharing tight hugs and infectious smiles. Their playful embrace captures something beautifully universal about love itself. February reminds us that love refuses to be confined to neat categories. Whether it’s the butterflies of a teenage crush, the steady warmth of a decades-old marriage or the gloriously awkward entertainment siblings provide their parents, this month welcomes every heartbeat, every connection, every “I love you” whispered or shouted. The magic isn’t in expensive gifts – it’s in those three simple words that make hearts race across languages. “Ek is lief vir jou” still makes knees weak in Afrikaans. “Ndiyakuthanda” carries the same power to make hearts flutter. Love speaks every tongue and recognises no boundaries. February’s true significance lies not in commercial romance, but in celebrating the beautiful, awkward and heartwarming spectrum of human connection. In a world that often feels divided, the month of love reminds us what truly unites us all.

Photo: Barend Williams

Street literary gem

Jamey Gordon

Driven by a deep love for people and prose, Strand couple Leslie and Sanette Thiart dreamed of sharing the magic of reading with fellow book lovers along the stunning promenade.

With Leslie’s engineering expertise transforming concepts into captivating reality, the passionate pair spotted an opportunity to rescue a neglected, decay-damaged post box in Melkbaai Street and breathed new life into it.

“My motto has always been to ‘make a difference’,” Sanette said. “The post box invited us to repurpose it into something special, and it went from rust to riches.”

This Strand landmark has now become an innovative way of boosting and expanding the culture of reading in the Helderberg. The couple has turned it into a street library, a facility for people to deposit books they have read, and take others they have not – an ongoing, revolving source of literary appreciation in the area.

Relaying this passion project with an enthusiasm that was infectious, this spirited 62-year-old said the idea for it had burst forth on Mandela Day (18 July) last year. It was a spark ignited by Lisa Starr, the dynamic driver behind the Helderberg Ocean Awareness Movement (Hoam), who wrote of possibilities for this unused post box on social media.

This inspired the Thiarts to take it further, reaching out to the media to propel the precious project into action and into well-deserved prominence. Distinguished local journalist Julian Jansen started the ball rolling by seeing the well-known landmark as a fitting refuge for several titles from his own collection.

The old letterbox is now suitably repurposed and serves as a fully-functional street library. Of this nascent literary treasure Sanette said: “We live in Melkbaai Street and walked past the post box every day on our way to the beach. It was a good beacon to direct visitors to our home, yet it was in a sad state of repair, no longer red and quite an eyesore. We decided to do something about it. We started by disinfecting it, scraping and treating it for rust and then it was repainted red. Then we came up with the idea to repurpose it by turning it into a street library accessible to all. In this way we could make a difference in our immediate environment. As we had recently relocated to Strand, it was also an opportunity to integrate into the local community quickly and easily.”

What’s more, she said, the post box’s location on the corner of Melkbaai Street and Beach Road, with its constant stream of curious passersby was unique; many naturally pause to peek on their promenade perambles. It’s just minutes from the Thiarts’ doorstep, so they easily monitor, maintain and replenish the book collection at will or when necessary.

‘TAKE ONE, DONATE ONE’ Sanette drew from her own diverse collection and relied on generous donations from neighbours and friends. The library operates on a simple "take one, donate one" principle, a self-regulating system powered by community spirit. Beachgoers and holidaymakers without any space in their bags for packing that fat novel along with their sunscreen and beach paraphernalis can rely on generously-stocked shelves. Each donated item receives protective treatment: a “Street Library Strand, Not for resale” stamp prevents bookshops from converting community treasures into profit, while

every volume gets a charming handmade bookmark, ensuring readers depart with both a story and a special keepsake.

While harbouring hopeful hearts, the couple remained realistic about their community initiative, with their greatest wish being that neighbours would welcome the literary gift without misusing or vandalising the treasure.

Though occasional “clean-outs” initially disheartened them, the overwhelming response has brought boundless joy.

“One morning I saw a young homeless guy sitting on a bench reading a novel and decided to have a chat with him,” Sanette said. “He had just relocated to Strand and decided to sit and read when he saw the library. He said to me, ‘Baie dankie, tannie. Ek sal die boek terugbring as ek hom klaar gelees het.’”

Bookworms can look out for a QR-code on the inside of the street library door that can be scanned should they be interested in becoming a Friend of the Street Library.

Bins a boon for baboons

Yaseen Gaffar

The coastal stretch of Clarence Drive (R44) is currently at the centre of a heated dispute as the Rooiels Conservancy (REC) is calling for the immediate removal of all public bins along the route, citing a total failure in waste management that is endangering the region’s biodiversity and local baboon troops.

However, the Western Cape Government’s Department of Infrastructure (DOI) has pushed back, arguing that removing the bins could actually make the litter problem worse.

According to the Rooiels Conservancy, the bins along the scenic route between Gordon’s Bay and Rooiels have been only intermittently serviced since July last year. The results, they say, are catastrophic for an area located in the heart of the Cape Floral Kingdom, a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

“The bins regularly overflow, many are missing lids and ‘baboon-proof’ mechanisms, and they are regularly

raided by baboons,” says Ralph Pina, chairperson of the REC.

The environmental impact isn’t limited to plastic pollution. The REC claims that the lure of uncurbed waste has drawn the Gordon’s Bay and Rooiels baboon troops onto the road more frequently.

Infant baboons are particularly at risk as they are unaccustomed to speeding cars; and at least one member of the troop has reportedly learned how to bypass the “baboon-proof” locking mechanisms.

“There is simply no excuse,” says Pina. “The bins should be removed as speedily as possible for the benefit of biodiversity and wildlife.”

The DOI, which manages the road (officially TR27/1), points to a “constrained fiscal environment”.

Jandré Bakker, director of operational support for the DOI, explained that the department is still reeling from the financial impact of severe storm damage sustained two years ago. “Disaster support funding covered less than one-third of the actual repair costs,” Bakker stated.

“Significant resources had to be reprioritised to repair the damage.”

The REC has pointed to Kirstenbosch National Botanical Garden and the City of Cape Town’s approach at Miller’s Point as successful examples of a “nobin” policy, where visitors are encouraged to take their waste home.

The DOI, however, remains unconvinced, stating that removing bins does not eliminate littering and may exacerbate waste accumulation.

Bakker stated that a new Routine Road Maintenance contractor has been appointed and the DOI is currently awaiting final approval from the Department of Labour to begin full operations.

“Once the new contractor is fully

operational, the department will assess whether additional or alternative bin infrastructure, is required,” Bakker added.

In response, Pina argued that at present defective bins (and inadequate servicing) mean that more plastic waste is entering the reserves and the sea than with no bins because motorists are depositing their waste in the expectation that the bins are secure and serviced.

Wind, baboons and vagrants scatter the contents before they can be serviced.

“Servicing bins without lids, with defective ‘baboon-proof’ mechanisms, is an exercise in futility,” he said, and questioned why bin-free policies work elsewhere such as Kirstenbosch Gardens and the peninsula.

“They could trial a no-bins policy, with appropriate signage,” said Pina.

Funding for clean-ups

Helderberg-based organisations Making a Change and Oasis Reach for Your Dreams have secured funding from the City of Cape Town to tackle the basin’s chronically-polluted Soet River and broader Sir Lowry’s Pass catchment.

They are among 22 community organisations awarded grants to the tune of R3,5 million through the City’s Water and Sanitation Directorate’s expanded partnership programme. This supports community-led environmental action across the city, fostering local solutions for its most challenging waterways.

The Soet River has long struggled with pollution challenges. Making a Change will focus specifically on the Sir Lowry’s Pass catchment, while Oasis Reach for Your Dreams will engage homeless and marginalised youth in comprehensive clean-up efforts across the Helderberg, including the Soet River in Strand.

(jamey.thomas@novusmedia.co.za)

Said Zahid Badroodien, Mayoral Committee member for Water and Sanitation: “By supporting community-led projects we are investing in innovative, locally-driven solutions that encourage active citizenry and deliver measurable improvements to river health.”

The funding represents the second round of the City’s community-partnership programme, more than double the number of supported organisations since 2024-’25. It evaluated 39 applications submitted in December and selected projects based on their ability to address water pollution in priority hotspots, involving local residents and clear implementation plans for the February-June 2026 period.

The Soet River initiatives join a diverse portfolio of community-led projects spanning from Durbanville to Hout Bay, each targeting specific local challenges:

• River rehabilitation in the Mosselbank River (Fisantekraal/Greenville)

• Community education in Kuils River, Mfuleni, and Khayelitsha

• Waste interception through The Litterboom Project’s city-wide efforts

• Youth training programmes across 50 schools through Save a Fishie

• Flood resilience mapping in vulnerable Khayelitsha communities.

The programme’s holistic approach addresses both immediate clean-up needs and long-term behavioural change, training community members as river wardens, water monitors, and conservation advocates.

“The City’s backing gives organisations the confidence to grow,” said Zoë Prinsloo from Save a Fishie. “It allows us to plan long term, invest in better equipment and educational materials, and reach more communities. Most importantly, the City's support turns responsibility into real partnership.”

New play area for baby sanctuary

Jamey Gordon

Overwhelming community support has enabled Heartlands Baby Sanctuary to proudly unveil its new play area – a testament to what's possible when people unite for vulnerable children.

“This project represents the heart of our community. Every donation, every helping hand, every person who believed in these children has made this dream a reality,” said Samantha Topley, fundraising, marketing and events coordinator.

The Somerset West facility, which provides temporary residential care for up to 25 children, officially launched the new addition to its Old Paardevlei Road premises on Friday 13 February.

“We witness miracles here daily: shy children conquering climbing frames, babies experiencing grass beneath their feet for the first time, and little ones discovering the simple joy of movement. A recent visitor from Germany declared our facility ‘world-class’ – and this playground represents the pinnacle of that standard,” said Monica Buitendag, Heartlands Baby Sanctuary CEO at the event.

“On behalf of our staff, board members, and most importantly, all the precious children who will create countless memories here, I now have the absolute honour of officially declaring this play area open!”

The play area represents the culmination of a two-year journey that began with a sod-turning ceremony two years ago (“Sod turned at Heartlands,” DistrictMail & Helderberg Gazette, 31 January 2024).

The completed development generously supported by the Olivia Sieff Foundation among others includes a new activity centre housing occupational, play, and physiotherapists, alongside the upgraded playground facilities.

A crucial component addressed the playground’s long-overdue renovation. The original space had never been upgraded and lacked basic facilities like sandpits, with insufficient room for safe play. The expanded area now features jungle gyms, swings, sandpits, tunnels, mini roadways, shaded spots and sporting spaces.

SAFE, STIMULATING AND FUN

“We really just wanted a space where our children can be children. A place that is safe, stimulating and above all fun,” the team explained. “So many children come to us from difficult situations, and we felt they deserved a safe, happy place to play, explore and just enjoy being little.”

Designed primarily for toddlers and preschoolers up to six years old, with dedicated areas for babies, the facility recognises play as fundamental to healing and development.

“For us, play is such an important part of early childhood. It helps with physical development, social skills and emotional healing,” they emphasised. “For our children especially, it gives them a safe outlet for energy and a space where they can build confidence and feel secure.”

Safety was paramount in the design process, with comprehensive protocols ensuring age-appropriate equipment, constant supervision, and regular maintenance. The collaborative planning involved Buitendag, the facility’s stimulation coordinator, and full-time volunteer Gert Buitendag, who served as project manager and “turned the drawings into reality”.

PEOPLE REALLY SHOWED UP

The project’s success hinged on community generosity. “As an NPO, we rely on fundraising for projects like this. Without that support, it simply wouldn't have happened,” Topley acknowledged. Support extended beyond monetary donations. “People really showed up. Some shared our campaign and some donated items to make the play area extra special, like road signs, bikes, and soft furnishings. It was encouraging to see how many people care about these children.”

Local businesses provided crucial support through sponsorships and discounted services, helping stretch funding further.

The space represents more than recreation – it’s a comprehensive developmental tool integrated into daily programming.

“It gives us a dedicated space to include more structured play and developmental activities in our daily routine. It also just makes playtime more meaning-

ful, engaging and fun,” Topley shared.

Staff anticipate “improvements in coordination, balance, social interaction and emotional regulation. Having consistent access to good play equipment makes a real difference at this age”.

The facility powerfully reinforces Heartlands' core mission that every child has a birthright to belong.

“Belonging means feeling safe and valued. Creating a beautiful play space sends a message to our children that they matter, and that people care deeply about their happiness and growth,” Topley explained.

Beyond recreation, the space will serve therapeutic and educational purposes through sensory play, early learning activities, and indoor therapy sessions.

“For us, it’s more than just a play area, it is a sanctuary of laughter and a vital tool for development.”

Community members can continue supporting through volunteering with activities, maintenance assistance, or sponsoring specific needs, while future plans focus on strengthening care programmes and expanding sustainability projects.

 Simply reach out to Heartlands Baby Sanctuary by calling 021 852 3527.

Saak sloer al 2 jaar

Barend Williams

“Sterf met herinneringe, nie drome nie.”

Dit was die woorde waarmee wyle Chad de Villiers sy lewe geleef het. Nou, twee jaar nadat hy op 19 Desember 2023 grusaam vermoor is, is sy herinneringe met ink op sy ma, Morichia Jansen, se vel verewig terwyl sy steeds geregtigheid soek.

Luidens ’n verslag van die Strand-polisie het beamptes omstreeks 13:05 op ’n skietvoorval op die hoek van Petuniastraat en Fernlaan in Broadlandspark reageer waar hulle die 17-jarige met skietwonde aangetref het.

Dit was nadat hy glo deur lede van die SOS-bende gekonfronteer is. Twee van hulle het vuurwapens gehad en die tiener in die bors en kop geskiet. De Villiers is na ’n nabye hospitaal gejaag, waar hy dood verklaar is (“Bendegeweld in die Strand eis nog ’n lewe”, DistrikPos & Helderberg Gazette, 21 Desember 2023).

Vyf verdagtes tussen 19 en 37 jaar oud is oor die volgende paar dae in hegtenis geneem en van moord aangekla.

Vir Jansen het daardie oggend met ’n moederlike instink begin.

“Chad, Chad!” – dit was ’n ma se histeriese gille – sy het geweet dis haar seun.

Omstreeks vier ure voor die tragedie was dit ’n gewone skoolvakansiedag. Jansen het wakker geword en De Villiers in sy Kersfees-klere aangetref.

Sy het met haar seun gespot dat hy nie weer nuwe klere sal kry nie. “Hy het gesê: ‘Dis my oupa se verjaarsdag en ek weet nie of ek dit ná Kersfees gaan maak nie’,” vertel Jansen.

“Dis hoekom 19 Desember nooit weer dieselfde sal wees nie.”

De Villiers sou daardie dag saam met sy dansgroep, The Royals, gekuier het.

Jansen het die skote gehoor.

Sy het na die hoek gehardloop, waar sy haar seun aangetref het –omring deur toeskouers – terwyl hy in ’n plas bloed op die grond gelê het. “Ek het in my moederhart geweet my kind gaan dit nie maak nie,” sê sy.

Jansen hou vol haar seun was nie ’n bendelid nie, maar erken hy is gedurende die laaste maande deur negatiewe elemente aangetrek, hoewel hy ook daarvandaan wegbeweeg het.

Dis waarom die bedroefde ma voel die polisie-teenwoordigheid by sy begrafnis was onregverdig.

“Die aantal polisielede en Casspirs daar het dit laat lyk asof dit ’n 28-bendelid was wat vermoor is,” sê sy.

“By sy roudiens het dit gelyk asof hy 71 was met al die mense wat daar was. Dit wys hoeveel lewens Chad geraak het.”

Uit daardie pyn is ’n vasteberade besluit gebore: “Ek het my seun belowe ek sal veg vir geregtigheid tot die dag wat ek my oë toemaak.”

Twee jaar later draai die wiele van geregtigheid steeds stadig.

Volgens Eric Ntabazalila, ’n woordvoerder vir die Nasionale Vervolgingsgesag in die WesKaap, het vier verdagtes op 21 Desember 2023 in die Strand-landdroshof verskyn – een minder as die vyf wat die polisie aanvanklik in hegtenis geneem het.

Hulle is van moord aangekla sowel as die onwettige besit van ’n vuurwapen.

Die saak is op 31 Julie 2024 na die Strand-streekhof oorgedra.

Die verhoor het op 14 Augustus verlede jaar begin, maar die aanklagte teen twee verdagtes is teruggetrek omdat die polisie geen bewyse gehad het wat hulle met die misdaad verbind nie.

Ntabazalila het die rede vir die vertragings verduidelik:

is, maar sy geliefdes veg dat hy ’n herinnering bly.

“Die enkele ooggetuie is onder kruisondervraging. Vertragings is te wyte aan die emosionele toestand van die getuie.”

Die frustrasie word gedeel deur diegene wat De Villiers geken het.

Abduraghmaan Hartzenberg, die stigter van The Royals, sê hoe langer die saak voortsleep, hoe minder waarskynlik word ’n skuldigbevinding.

“[Chad se] dood het gemaak dat ek na sosiale geregtigheid kyk,” vertel Hartzenberg.

Om geregtigheid te verseker, het hy ’n aanlyn-petisie opgestel.

“Ons soek mense wat saam met ons vir Chad gaan staan.”

Terwyl De Villiers se eweknieë mobiliseer, bly die werklikheid vir die gesin onverbiddelik: Geen hofuitspraak sal hom terugbring nie.

Soms troos sy Chad se broertjies en suster; anders steun hulle haar. “Ek moet na ’n graf toe gaan om my kind te besoek,” sê sy ma. “Hy sou verlede jaar 18 geword het en toe moet ek ballonne opblaas vir ’n spook!”

Dis waarom sy steeds veg – sy wil nie hê mense moet vergeet wie Chad was nie, want dan sal hy nie meer ’n herinnering wees nie, maar meer soos ’n droom.  Die verhoor van die twee oorblywende beskuldiges is steeds aan die gang.

Heat over Strand pool’s lack of it

Yaseen Gaffar

A “chilling” reality is setting in at the Strand Municipal Swimming Pool, where local residents and regular swimmers are expressing growing disillusionment with what they describe as poor management, erratic operating hours and a heating system that remained a “no-go” despite a yearlong closure for upgrades.

For the community’s pensioners – the facility’s most dedicated users – the latest shift in operating hours has been the final straw.

The pool recently adjusted its Monday and Friday opening times to 11:00 to allow for cleaning. However, residents argue this schedule is fundamentally flawed.

Resident Denise Letts expressed the collective frustration of the “early bird” swimming community. “I have given up,” she said. “It’s ridiculous, as the busiest time is when we pensioners are there first thing. By 11:00 in the week it is still empty as the kids are back at school and people are working.”

In response to these concerns, Francine Higham, Mayoral Committee member for Community Services and Health, provided clarity on the operational changes.

“The facility operates seven days a week and, due to the high influx of patrons during peak times, the staff is unable to maintain the cleanliness of the facility. The reduced hours on Mondays and Fridays allow for the deep cleaning of the swimming pool, while pensioners are free to use the facility the whole day during operational hours.”

Regarding claims that the schedule changes on an “almost daily basis”, the City of Cape Town maintains that the current schedule is stable.

“The current pool schedule with the reduced hours on Mondays and Fridays will stay in place. The public was informed prior to the date of commencement... via announcements at the facility and signage,” Higham said.

One of the most significant grievances involves the pool’s heating system. While residents like Letts claim that a previous attempt to run the system “took out the substation breaker,” the City has flatly denied these reports.

“There has been no report of a substation breaker failure, as the heating system does not get its supply from an external substation,” ” said Higham. “The facility’s current electrical system was checked and all faulty breakers, wiring, lights, plugs, and switches were

recently replaced.”

However, for those waiting for warm water the wait is not over. “The City remains committed to restoring the heating systems and other integrated systems prior to the winter season of 2026,” Higham confirmed.

“Major elements of works were concluded; heat pumps fitted and the next phase of works will be the connection of electrical phase works. Once testing and commissioning has been concluded, the HVAC system will be restored.”

While the water temperature currently sits around 24 °C, regular users expect it to plummet to 15 °C or 16 °C during the winter months. When asked for a guarantee that winter swimming would be viable for seniors, the City noted that success depends entirely on whether the system remains stable after the upcoming commissioning phase.

Residents also allege that their enquiries over the past four years have been met with “misleading statements”.

The City, however, defended its transparency. “The statement is untrue,” Higham countered. “Timelines have changed during the execution of the project and additional unforeseen repairs were uncovered as the project progressed, due to the technical nature of mechanical and electrical installations. The shifting of timelines and projections were necessary.”

The City also dismissed the need for alternative community-proposed solutions like solar panels, stating “the current heating system is sufficient to maintain the size of the swimming pool” once fully operational.

Despite the grievances, the community holds an affinity for the facility itself.

“The pool is wonderful,” Letts concluded. “I personally just think it is not managed properly.”

Die Helderberg-GPF staan saam tydens die “Super Friday”-patrollie

Kragte saamgesnoer

Solidariteit was die afgelope Vrydag (13 Februarie) in die strate van Macassar sigbaar toe die Khayelitsha-subdistrik se gemeenskapspolisiëringsforum (GPF) ’n Super Friday-patrollie gehou het om misdaadvoorkoming en prestasies te vier.

Drie Helderberg-GPF-gebiede – Macassar, Strand en Gordonsbaai – het met Macassar se buurtwaglede en private sekuriteitsmaatskappye vir die gesamentlike optrede

kragte saamgesnoer.

Die subdistrik se kommissaris, brig. Mnoneleli Magobiyane, was ook by die inisiatief teenwoordig. Hierdeur kon die span ’n veel wyer gebied bereik as wat met plaaslike hulpbronne alleen moontlik sou gewees het. Met die patrollie het die span verskeie inhegtenisnemings gedoen vir dwelmbesit by onwettige strukture wat vir dwelmrook gebruik word, asook by dobbelplekke.

‘Fout’ kelder drome

Barend Williams

Die 18-jarige Jacklynn Mahoepa sou die eerste in haar familie wees wat universiteit toe te gaan – totdat ’n vermeende “tegniese fout” haar drome in duie laat stort het.

Sy is oorspronklik vir ’n kursus aan die Kaapse Skiereiland Universiteit van Tegnologie (KSUT) aanvaar voordat die mat onder haar uitgeruk is. “Ek was baie teleurgesteld, want dit is iets wat ek wil doen – ek wil gaan studeer,” sê dié tiener van Strand.

Jacklynn het verlede jaar aan die Strand Sekondêre Skool gematrikuleer. Vir haar was dit die hoogtepunt van ’n jaar van opoffering en harde werk.

“Toe ek my uitslae kry, was ek só trots op myself, want ek het met ’n baccalaureustoelating geslaag,” verduidelik sy. “Ek het my ma so trots gemaak, want ek het alle struikelblokke oorkom,” Met haar sertifikaat as bewys van haar sukses het sy geweet haar droom om te studeer, is nou binne bereik.

Sy het tydens haar matriekjaar by twee universiteite aansoek gedoen en is by KSUT aanvaar – vir joernalistiek.

Jacklynn het die nuus omstreeks 23:00 op Donderdag 29 Januarie ontvang toe sy KSUT se aansoekerportaal besoek het, maar sy beweer sy het geen e-pos of SMS’e gekry nie.

Die aanvaardingsbrief het

getoon sy het 48 uur gehad om te registreer voordat die plek aan die volgende geskikte aansoeker gegee sou word.

Sy het nie gehuiwer nie en onmiddellik te werk gegaan om haarself te registreer

Maar toe kom die skok. “Ek het probeer registreer, maar daar was ’n WEBR-status-probleem,” sê sy. “Die stelsel het gesê ek het nie ’n WEBR-status nie.”

Die verwarrende foutboodskap het verhoed dat sy vir die program kon registreer.

Die volgende paar dae was sy paniekbevange en het die universiteit tevergeefs probeer kontak.

Toe sy uiteindelik terugvoer ontvang, het dit gelui: “Neem asseblief kennis u is nie aanvaar nie, daarom kan u nie registreer nie.”

’n Skermgreep het gewys sy kan nie meer registreer nie, omdat die program vol is.

Die nuus het Jacklynn se hart gebreek en haar droom laat verdamp.

Lauren Kansley, ’n KSUTwoordvoerder, het bevestig Jacklynn is aanvanklik aanvaar, maar haar aanvaarding is nie meer geldig nie.

Die joernalistiekprogram het meer as 1 000 aansoeke vir die akademiese jaar ontvang, maar het slegs plek vir 75 studente.

Jacklynn het 48 uur tussen Dinsdag 27 en Donderdag 29 Januarie tyd gehad om te registreer.

“Toe die aansoeker nie haar plek opgeëis het nie, is dit aan ’n ander student toegeken,” ver-

duidelik Kansley.

Die universiteit ontken enige tegniese probleme. Volgens Kansley is die 48-uur-registrasievenster standaard bedryfsprosedure vir alle KSUT-kursusse.

Sy sê geen ander aansoekers vir die joernalistiekkursus het soortgelyke probleme ervaar nie. Kansley het bygevoeg dat alle aansoekers ’n e-pos- of SMSboodskap sou ontvang het indien hulle ’n e-posadres of selfoonnommer tydens die aansoekerproses verskaf het. “Haar ervaring is ongelukkig ’n waarskuwing dat aansoekers moet bedag wees op hul aansoeke en moet hul plekke betyds aanvaar om teleurstelling te voorkom,” sê Kansley.

Die feit dat Jacklynn dit eers Donderdagaand ontdek het, beteken sy het slegs ure oor gehad om te registreer.

Val MacDonald, ’n opvoedingsaktivis, betwis dit was slegs ongelukkig.

Sy beweer dit is simptomaties van ’n groter mislukking van die universiteit, en sy het glo talle boodskappe ontvang van ander aansoekers wat oor soortgelyke probleme kla en met dieselfde probleem sit.

“Die aansoekproses moet verander om dit vir studente makliker te maak,” sê MacDonald. Vir nou is Jacklynn gedwing om ’n alternatiewe plan te maak, maar haar hart lê by haar studies. “Ek wil nie eintlik nou werk nie; ek wil studeer, want ek is nog in die leerfase van my lewe,” sê die tiener.

SW Girls’ Brigade marks 90 years

Jamey Gordon

For nine decades the Church Street Methodist church’s 1st Somerset West Girls’ Brigade Company has transformed young lives with an unwavering mission: helping girls become devoted followers of the Lord Jesus Christ.

Through the timeless values of self-control, reverence and responsibility this remarkable organisation has grown into a beacon of hope, touching countless lives.

The Girls’ Brigade movement began in Dublin, Ireland in 1893, reaching South Africa in 1925.

The 1st Somerset West Girls’ Brigade Company was established within the Church Street Methodist church in 1936, creating a lasting legacy in which many girls progressed through the ranks to become officers and young leaders.

The organisation’s journey has been marked by significant international achievements. In 1984 young leader Rowena Adonis represented Girls’ Brigade South Africa at an international conference in Melbourne, Australia. The company celebrated its golden jubilee in 1986, and the late 1990s brought further recognition when three girl members – Janine-Lee Gordon, Tracey-Lee Simpson and Meryl Adonis – represented the organisation at an International Camp in Melbourne in 1998.

A pivotal transformation occurred when officer Nazleah Simons established a group in Garden Village, initially meeting at her home. Today most of the company’s 30 members come from the Helderberg community, with weekly gatherings held in the Garden Village Community Hall for safe, accessible participation.

Two of its exceptional leaders have been national presidents of the Girls’ Brigade South Africa – in 2006 Marina Sylvester (re-elected for a second term) and last year Cassandra Gabriel. The company has been shaped by dedicated leaders, including past captains Helen Maclons, Dohl Simpson, Anne van Niekerk, Anne Gordon, Evelina Achilles, Joslyn Lyners, Rowena (Adonis) Durr and Sylvester.

“Our motto is to seek, serve and follow Christ Jesus. These founding principles remain constant, though our programmes have evolved with the times,” the organisation points out.

The comprehensive foursquare programme encompasses spiritual, physical, educational and service elements, based on Luke 2:52: “And Jesus grew in body and wisdom, gaining favour with God and men”. This biblical foundation ensures holistic development connecting physical growth, intellectual development, spiritual maturity and community relationships.

“The principles haven’t changed over nine decades because they remain relevant today, and only our methods have adapted to modern times.”

The Girls’ Brigade maintains

strong commitment to community service through dedicated outreach programmes. “During September we dedicate our time to various outreach activities, such as visiting the elderly in our church community and the community of Garden Village, providing food parcels to the needy and giving encouragement to the sick.”

Notable projects include environmental initiatives like cleanup efforts in Garden Village and Strand Beach, alongside regular visits to the elderly, orphaned, homeless and streetchildren.

The company actively participates in district and regional Girls’ Brigade events including jamborees, concerts and sports days.

Central to its success is fostering an inclusive environment where spiritual development flourishes. The organisation states: “No matter where one comes from, or who one is, we are a space where girls can come every week and be creative, knowing there are people who care about their well-being and spiritual growth.

“It develops holistical development of the girl child through the four-square programme. Over the decades we’ve shaped many women who are now leaders and caregivers in their communities.”

The company has persevered through challenging times and emerged stronger. “As the oldest living company on the

continent, our legacy is built on resilience, innovation and unwavering commitment.”

Its weekly impact remains substantial, “nurturing the growth around 30 girls predominently from Garden Village”.

The Girls’ Brigade aims “to continue creating an enabling environment for this generation and the next of (primarily) girls and women to openly explore and engage with real life and Christian faith in a fun, informative and hopeful way”.

The key is also succession planning, “future leaders to... continue the work of God among children”.

The milestone anniversary will be marked with two special events, a family 5 km fun run and celebration service.

The fun run will be held on Saturday 28 March at 09:00 from Goedeverwachting Estate on Sir Lowry’s Pass Road. Registration costs R60 for adults, R30 for children (16 and under), with R10 general entry for non-participants. Refreshments will be on sale and there will be activities for children.

The service will be held at Church Street Methodist church later this year and will honour those who played significant roles in the organisation’s history, followed by a parade and party for current members.  Register for the walk online at https://forms.gle/jQV5d381JuKDhgz56 or email Cassandra on cassandra.gabriel@gmail.com.

Millions saved during Sassa review

Lise Beyers

The South African Social Security Agency (Sassa) has saved government approximately R44 million per month through an intensified grant review process aimed at ensuring social assistance reaches only eligible beneficiaries.

The review process, introduced at the start of the 2025-’26 financial year, translates to savings of about R500 million annually as the agency tightens controls in a constrained fiscal environment.

Sassa CEO Themba Matlou said the review process strengthens the effectiveness, reliability and integrity of the social assistance system while guarding against wasteful expenditure.

“The social grant review process is an

important step not only to safeguard the integrity of the social assistance programme, but to also ensure public funds are directed to those who need them most, including reducing fraud and misuse of public funds,” Matlou said during a media briefing in Cape Town.

The agency planned to undertake 420 000 grant reviews for the current financial year. By the third quarter nearly 400 000 beneficiaries were notified to come forward (about 240 000 grants were reviewed to date).

About 70 000 grants were suspended due to beneficiaries failing to conduct reviews.

The National Treasury closely monitors the process and has set conditions to accelerate implementation, including income verification, biometric checks, inter-agency data cross-referencing and reporting. Through data matching with the South

African Revenue Service (Sars), the agency identified 495 296 ineligible clients. A further 162 574 clients were identified through income verification testing involving the National Student Financial Aid Scheme (NSFAS) and other entities, while 291 581 were flagged across government payroll systems.

Beneficiaries identified through this process are required to present themselves for review and disclosure. Failure to comply may result in grant suspension.

The agency said it had strengthened partnerships with credit bureaus, banks, Sars, NSFAS and other institutions to enhance verification. It has also rolled out compulsory biometric enrolment for all new grant applications and introduced a self-service portal that allows beneficiaries to complete e-Life Certification.

Sassa said beneficiaries not updating

2025 GENERAL VALUATION ROLL FOR THE CITY OF CAPE TOWN

Notice is hereby given in terms of section 49 of the Local Government: Municipal Property Rates Act, 6 of 2004 (as amended), hereinafter referred to as “The Act ”, that the 2025 General Valuation Roll, applicable from 1 July 2026, is open for public inspection at www.capetown. gov.za/propertyvaluations and at the public inspection and objection venues listed below

Any property owner or other person is hereby invited in terms of section 49 of the Act to inspect the roll within the periods specified below and, in accordance with legislation, lodge an objection in respect of any matter reflected in, or omitted from, the valuation roll.

Attention is specifically drawn to the fact that in terms of section 50 of the Act an objection must be in relation to a specific individual property and not against the valuation roll as such.

Objections can be submitted in any of the following ways:

From 20 February 2026 to 30 April 2026:

• Online via E-services (preferred and most efficient method of submission): www.capetown.gov.za/en/eservices

• Via email: valuationsobjection@capetown.gov.za

• From 20 February 2026 to 31 March 2026: In person, during the operational times of the public inspection and objection venues listed below

contact details results in missed review notifications. It now has a fourth payment date in the social-grants payment cycle as a signal for beneficiaries to contact Sassa if payment is not received within the first three payment days.

Matlou said Sassa will progressively make the social-grant review process available through self-service platforms to improve accessibility, efficiency and convenience for beneficiaries.

The review process is conducted in line with Regulation 30 and Section 14(5) of the Social Assistance Act, 2004. Beneficiaries are legally obliged to report any material changes in their circumstances, including financial or marital status. Grants aren’t cancelled on the basis of checks. Beneficiaries are notified they are under review and grants are suspended if the review doesn’t occur within the legislated period.

The form for

Only well-motivated objections will be considered.

NO LATE OBJECTIONS WILL BE ACCEPTED

Owners will be notified of their valuations in writing The notices will be emailed or posted to the details held on the City’s database.

You are able to receive your valuation notices and accounts via email. Simply SMS your email address and account number to 31223.

For more information: Call centre: 0860 103 089 Web: www.capetown.gov.za

Web: www.capetown.gov.za/propertyvaluations

Why is my skin colour rejected?

The most common thing we do daily is to open, swipe and peruse social media, sometimes even before that first cuppa!

This “habit” has become so natural to us, that at times we don’t even realise we are doing it.

But what do we now read and hear, like a rhythmic drum beat, over and over again?

The colour of one’s skin rejected!

From some of your own and other fellow skin types, and your government professing

to protect you under a Constitution, which is bent and wobbled to fit its purpose, of denying one to the right to live in the skin one has been born with.

Have the powers that be ever thought that if they started painting everyone with a brush to be blue, yellow or psychedelic we would all still be wearing the skin colour we were born with?

Try as they may, that is the one thing that will never change!

Emmy Holliday, SOMERSET WEST

‘Acts kindness make country great’

I would like to extend my heartfelt gratitude to the exceptional staff at the Total Garage in Ashton.

Following my early-morning bicycle accident on Tuesday 23 December 2025 their immediate help and genuine concern for me made all the difference during a difficult moment.

Acts of kindness such as these remind us our people truly make this country great.

I wish everyone involved a rewarding new year.

Thomas Tesar, FACEBOOK

OFFICIAL NOTICE

RECEIPT OF APPLICATIONS FOR A SITE LICENCE

In terms of the provisions of Section 32(2) of the Western Cape Gambling and Racing Act, 1996 (Act 4 of 1996), as amended, the Western Cape Gambling and Racing Board (“the Board”) hereby gives notice that applications for a site licence , as listed below, have been received. A site licence will authorise the licence holder to place a maximum of twenty limited pay-out machines in approved sites outside of casinos for play by the public .

DETAILS OF APPLICANTS

Name of business: Tallas’sTavern and Pub CC , t/a Talla’s Tavern Registration number : 1995/019773/23

Address: 67 Beach Road, Gordon’s Bay 7150

Erf number : Erf 329, Gordon’s Bay

Persons having a financial Henr y Charles Müller – 56%

Interest of 5% or more Louise Helena Müller – 20% the business: Joshua Müller – 24%

WRITTEN COMMENTS AND OBJECTIONS

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 objections guidelines, which is an explanator y guide through the legal framework governing the lodgement of objections and the Board’s adjudication procedures The objections 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 application is furnished full par ticulars 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, 6 March 2026

In terms of Regulation 24(2) of the National Gambling Regulations, the Board will schedule a public hearing in respect of an application only if it receives written objections relating to:

(a) the probity or suitability for licensing of any of the persons to be involved in the operation of the relevant business, or (b) the suitability of the proposed site for the conduct of gambling operations.

If a public hearing is scheduled, the date of such hearing will be advertised in this publication approximately 14 days prior to the date thereof. Objections or comments must be forwarded to the Chief Executive Officer, Western Cape Gambling and Racing Board, P.O. Box 8175, Roggebaai 8012 or handed to the Chief Executive Officer, Western Cape Gambling and Racing Board, 24

or e-mailed to Objections.Licensing@wcgrb.co.za

Vandalism is the cause

We’ve reported not having streetlights for four months in Chilwan Crescent, Helderberg Industrial Park, multiple times. How much longer must one keep fighting with the City of Cape Town? Anonymous, EMAIL

Xanthea Limberg, Mayoral Commitee member for Energy, responds: The service request reference number provided was logged on 12 January 2026 and the streetlights were repaired by 14 January.

Chilwan is an industrial area which, unfortunately, experiences significant vandalism, with recurring streetlight outages.

City electricity teams actively work in various areas across the metro as part of a year-round public-lighting programme. They maintain a network of more than 245 000 streetlights through significant investment, including a R75,5 million streetlight capital budget for 2025-’26.

Their hard work has driven a recovery rate in our streetlight burn, now 86,48%, poised to exceed the City’s 90% target.

Nevertheless, vandalism and theft of critical infrastructure remain a challenge. The City has spent about R62 million on infrastructure maintenance and replacement this past financial year.

But as soon as infrastructure is replaced it is vandalised again. The City has deployed security, replaced copper with lower street-value alternatives and is piloting infrastructure-protection tech solutions.

It has launched a unique Protect Your Power campaign, highlighting vandalism’s massive impact, theft and illegal connections leaving communities, neighbourhoods and roadways in the dark. The City calls on residents to help “Protect Your Power” and build safer, brighter communities by reporting suspicious activity anonymously to the City’s Public Emergency Communication Centre (PECC). Report suspicious behaviour to the City’s PECC om 021 480 7700. Alternatively, contact your local police station.

Red tape halts storm repairs

I am a single mother living with my 16-year-old daughter at Voortrekkerpark Holiday Resort in Strand. While my mother owns our house, it sits on municipal grounds.

Recently, our porch shade sails were damaged during strong winds, leaving our entire porch completely exposed.

As someone who suffers from chronic bronchitis, the constant wind exposure seriously affects my health. For both safety and health reasons, I was fortunate to receive a donation to replace the damaged sails with proper glass doors.

However, when the installation team arrived to begin work, they were stopped by the resort’s committee chairperson, who claimed they couldn’t proceed without his permission.

I was never informed that such permission was required for what I consider essential home protection.

I struggle to understand why I need anyone’s permission to protect my family’s health and safety – surely this is a basic human right?

My chronic bronchitis is significantly worsened by wind exposure, yet I’m being prevented from installing proper protection.

Meanwhile, our furniture is deteriorating under con-

stant sun exposure, and we’re essentially trapped indoors, unable to use our porch. Why should a single mother be denied the right to protect her home and health?

I am writing this email with a heavy heart and in the hope that someone can assist me with regard to my human right to feel safe in my own house.

Lario le Roux, EMAIL

The City of Cape Town’s Economic Growth Directorate responds: Voortrekker Park is a resort developed on land zoned as Open Space Zone II.

The area in question comprises approximately 105 residential units, mainly lean-to or wooden structures, which are managed by the City’s Property Transactions Department.

Although temporary and informal measures, such as canvas panels on open stoeps, were previously used and did not require approved plans, the installation of permanent glass doors and windows has resulted in the creation of additional habitable space and an increase in floor area. This constitutes an intensification of use and requires approved building plans. In this instance, no such plans were submitted or approvals sought.

rail users.

Freight transport is an enabler of the region’s economy, facilitating the movement

and local livelihoods and needs.

The updated FMS builds on the 2016 strategy which identified key issues such as infrastructure strain, safety concerns, and insufficient enforcement within the freight sector, and aligning with national, regional, and local goals. There is an urgent need for more freight to shift from road to rail, and for greater use of the after-hours services offered by the port. The FMS also incorporates new priorities like land use planning, addressing the micro-freight industry the growth in informal truck parking and focusing on compliance to support the overall vision.

In terms of section 17 of the Local Government: Municipal Systems Act 32 of 2000, the public and interested parties or groups are given the opportunity to submit comments, recommendations or input on this Strategy to the municipality from Tuesday 24 February to Tuesday 31 March 2026.

Comments, recommendations or inputs can be submitted by:

• Email: UrbanMobility.CT@capetown.gov.za (quote reference 110252609

• Online: Scan the QR code to submit your comments digitally

• Visit www.capetown.gov.za/haveyoursay or www.capetown.gov.za/collaborate

• Written submissions: Forms for written submissions can be obtained from your nearest Subcouncil office or City library

A summary of the draft strategy (in all three official languages) and the full draft freight management strategy, will be available for viewing at:

• The City’s website: www.capetown.gov.za/haveyoursay and www.capetown.gov.za/collaborate

• All Subcouncil offices and City libraries.

The City’s Public Participation Unit will assist those who cannot read or write, live with disabilities or who are from disadvantaged groups and unable to submit written comments. Contact Zandile Mahlasela on 021 400 5501or Zandile.Mahlasela@capetown.gov.za.

For more information related to the draft strategy, email UrbanMobility.CT@capetown.gov.za or contact the project manager on 021 400 9339

LUNGELO MBANDAZAYO

CTA30/2026

Busamed Paardevlei Orthopaedic Symposium Highlights Surgical Excellence and Innovation

Bus am ed Pa ar de vle i Ho sp it al ho st ed a hi gh ly su cc es sf ul

Or th op ae di c Sy mp os iu m on 7 February bringing together healthcare professionals to celebrate excellence, in no va ti on , and ad va nc em en t in orthopaedic care. The event served as a platform to showcase the hospital's exceptional orthopaedic surgeons and the cutting-edge surgical techniques th at co nt in ue to el ev at e pa ti en t outcomes.

Th e sy mp osi um hi gh li gh te d the la te st developments in orthopaedic surger y, with a st ro ng fo cu s on ad va nc ed su rgi ca l techniques, improved recovery times, and patient-centred care Attendees gained va lu ab le in sig ht in to how in nova ti on , technology, and clinical expertise intersect to deliver world-class orthopaedic services at Busamed Paardevlei Private Hospital

Am on g the di st in gu is he d su rg eo ns fe atur ed we re Dr Ko os Jo rda an, Dr Ma rk Ma ri tz , Dr He nt as va n Zyl,

Prof Ntambue Jimmy Kauta, Dr Robert

Da ch s, an d Dr Th om as Hi lt on , ea ch presenting on their respective areas of ex pe rt is e and de mo ns trat in g a st ro ng co mm itm en t to pr ec isio n su rg er y, continuous professional development, and the adoption of modern techniques that enhance both safety and clinical outcomes.

The programme covered a wide range of co nt em po ra ry ort ho pa ed ic to pi cs , including hip and knee surgery updates, mi ni ma ll y in va si ve fo ot and an kl e pr oced ur es , sh ou lde r and rot at or cu ff pathologies, tendon and ner ve injuries, or th op ae di c on co lo gy , ar th ro pl as tyre la te d in fe ct io ns , an d app rop ri at e mus cu lo sk el eta l im ag in g and re fe rr al pathways for general practitioners

The presentations reflected the depth of experience within the orthopaedic team and und er scor ed Bu sa me d Pa ar devl ei Private Hospital's dedication to remaining at the forefront of surgical advancement. From minimally invasive procedures to complex orthopaedic inter ventions, the

A special thank you to our sponsors Lancet and Pathcare as well as our exhibitors Solventum, Str yker and Orthospec.

symposium showcased how innovation is actively improving patient care and longterm recovery

The Orthopaedic Symposium reinforced Bu sa me d Paa rd ev le i Pr ivat e Ho sp it al 's reputation as a centre of excellence, driven by highly skilled specialists, state-of-the-art technology, and a shared commitment to quality healthcare. Events such as these no t on ly en co ur ag e pr of es sio nal collaboration but also ensure that patients continue to benefit from the very best in modern orthopaedic treatment.

Website: www.busamed.co.za

Proefonnie nou skoolhoof

Barend Williams

“Ek het in 2000 hier as proefonderwyser ingestap wat niks geweet het nie; 26 jaar later sit ek in die stoel as hoof.”

Dís hoe François Fouché (48), die Hoërskool Hottentots-Holland in Somerset-Wes se splinternuwe skoolhoof die volsirkel-oomblik beskryf. Hy is op Donderdag 1 Januarie amptelik by die tradisiebelaaide skool aangestel – opgewonde om nuwe hoofstukke by die ikoniese

Helderberg-instelling te skryf voor hulle honderdste verjaarsdag in 2030.

“Ons tema vir die jaar is om groot drome te droom,” verduidelik Fouché.

Maar voordat hy die leerders van HHH kon help om te droom, het hy self begin met ’n saadjie van hoop.

Die reis het in Paarl begin, waar Fouché as ’n Boland-seun gebore en getoë is. Ná hoërskool by Paul Roos Gimnasium in Stellenbosch is hy na die Universiteit Stellenbosch, waar hy sy graad in sportwetenskap behaal het, gevolg deur sy onderwysdiploma.

“Ek dink dis in my gene – my ma was ’n onderwyseres voordat ek gebore is, maar sy was steeds ’n juffrou by die huis,” verduidelik Fouché oor sy vroeë inspirasie vir onderwys.

Ironies genoeg het sy eerste praktiese onderrig by dieselfde skool plaasgevind waar hy vandag as hoof dien. “Ek dink nie ek was baie ’n goeie student nie,” sê hy met ’n giggel, maar daardie ervaring het die fondament gelê vir wat later ’n merkwaardige loopbaan sou word.

Ná sy praktyk het Fouché ’n onkonvensionele roete gevolg – eers internasionaal om klas te gee in Engeland en Taiwan, toe terug na verskeie Kaapse skole. Sy loopbaan is selfs onderbreek deur ’n tydperk waarin hy gestudeer het om ’n sjef te wees.

“Maar ek het eers in my laat twintigs besef ek wou regtig in die onderwys wees en toe begin ek die onderwysleër klim,” verduidelik hy. Dit was ná ’n gesprek met sy mentor wat hom aangeraai het om platteland toe te gaan om sy leierskapsvaardighede te ontwikkel.

Die raad het gewerk. Fouché het by die Laërskool De Villiers Graaff in Villiersdorp as skoolhoof gedien, waar hy met sy naby 30 jaar ervaring waardevolle lesse

geleer het oor hoe om leerders beter te help. Vandag kyk Fouché anders na onderwys. “Onderwys het verander; ons berei leerders voor vir werksgeleenthede wat nog nie bestaan nie,” verduidelik hy.

In ’n steeds ontwikkelende wêreld waar onderwysers opgeroep word om meer as net lesse aan te bied, glo hy opvoeders moet anders dink.

Fouché se ambisies vir HHH is drievoudig. Eerstens wil hy die skool se infrastruktuur, wat bykans ’n eeu oud is, moderniseer. Tweedens wil hy hê die skool moet op die wêreldverhoog in sport deelneem.

“Altesaam 1 462 leerders is in die skool, en dit moet goeie rugby-, krieket-, netbalspelers en atlete insluit,” sê hy terwyl hy ook die uitstekende kultuurprogramme wil uitbou.

Sy derde droom is akademie, hoewel hy nie uitsluitlik op syfers fokus nie. “Hoe fantasties sal dit nie wees as die skool in sy 100 jaar van bestaan ’n 100%-slaagsyfer behaal nie?” vra hy met ’n glimlag.

Sy ambisies strek verder as die skoolhekke. “Leerders hoef nie gedwonge op ’n bus te klim en Stellenbosch toe ry omdat daar beter geleenthede vir hulle by ander skole is nie. Hulle moet dieselfde geleenthede hier in die Helderberg kry,” verduidelik hy.

Hierdie gemeenskapsgevoel is nie toevallig nie – hy sien die kringloop oral om hom, want baie oudleerders is nou onderwysers by die skool.

Fouché sal sy eerste jaar meet aan die nuwe sirkel wat hy begin het. “Die vraag is: het ons in 2026 iets nuuts en anders gedoen as wat in die laaste 96 jaar gedoen is – iets wat vir die volgende 96 jaar ’n tradisie vir die skool sal wees?” vra hy.

Top award for life sciences

Emily Landman of Montgomery and Miller Academy in Somerset West was among the province’s top Grade 12 learners in the 2025 National Senior Certificate (NSC) examinations. During the annual NSC Awards, which was hosted by Western Cape premier Alan Winde and the provincial education department at Leeuwenhof on Thursday 29 January, Emily received an award for achieving 100% for life sciences.

Waaroor droom jou dorp?

Ruling against bullying

Rulers became tools for change when Gordon’s Bay police’s Spiritual Crime Prevention Group used them to spread anti-bullying messages at two primary schools on Tuesday 11 February. The group, alongside Khayelitsha Sub-district Community Policing Forum chairperson Marlon Solomons and deputy Donovan Brown, distributed the stationery to launch their annual anti-bullying campaign at Temperance Town and Gordon’s Bay primary schools. Nearly 900 learners received rulers carrying messages of hope and the group’s commitment to fighting bullying at school. Young faces lit up as the importance of tolerance was shared through this simple yet meaningful gesture. Pictured are vice-chairperson Rejeanne Louw and member Belinda Weiss from Gordon’s Bay Spiritual Crime Prevention Group distribute rulers with a difference to excited Temperance Town Primary School learners.

Endler-konserte begin dié week

Die 2026-Endler-konsertreeks open hierdie week met ’n reeks konserte wat internasionale sterre sowel as van Suid-Afrika se mees talentvolle musikante na die verhoog bring.

Die reeks, aangebied in die Endler- en Fismer-sale by die Universiteit Stellenbosch se Konservatorium, bied ’n ryk verskeidenheid musiekuitvoerings.

Aanstaande maand (Maart) word die Stellenbosch- internasionale klaviersimposium ook hier aangebied.

Die reeks begin Vrydag (20 Februarie) met ’n tjello-en-klavieruitvoering deur die talentvole Cheng² Duo. Die sibbe Bryan (tjello) en Silvie Cheng (klavier) is internasionaal bekend vir hul energieke spel en besondere musikale sinergie. Hul program neem die gehoor op ’n reis van Spaanse kleur en Engelse volkswysies tot Duitse romantiek en Franse elegansie, met werke deur Joaquín Nin, Vaughan Williams, Schumann, Nadia Boulanger en Poulenc.

Die Chengs het oor die jare heen ’n internasionale profiel opgebou met optredes in Noord-Amerika, Europa, Asië en Suid-Afrika. Bryan is ook die enigste pryswenner van beide die Koningin Elizabeth- en Geneefse internasionale musiekkompetisies die afgelope 40 jaar. Jazz is Dinsdag 24 Februarie in die kollig wanneer die Kaapse pianis Ramon Alexander saam met sy trio terugkeer vir ’n samewerking met die Duitse baskitaarspeler Martin Zenker. Die program is progressief, maar bly geanker in sielvolle Suid-Afrikaanse jazz.

Op Vrydag 27 Februarie is die Wits-trio – Malcolm Nay (klavier), Zanta Hofmeyr (viool) en Susan Mouton (tjello) – in War and Peace, wat twee ikoniese werke uitvoer, op die verhoog. Beethoven se “Archduke” word dikwels verbind aan ideale van vryheid en hoop. Shostakovich se Klaviertrio Nr. 2 is ’n skroeiende reaksie op die verwoesting van die Tweede Wêreldoorlog.

Van Saterdag 28 Februarie tot Woensdag 4 Maart word Stellenbosch ’n nasionale spilpunt vir fluitspel en -onderrig wanneer die eerste Suid-Afrikaanse fluitfees (SAFF) aangebied word.

Twee feeshoogtepunte sluit in die fluitkoorkonsert, One Voice, Many Colours (Dinsdag 3 Maart), asook die fees se galakonsert, Beyond Breath, op 4 Maart.

Op Vrydag 6 Maart bied die bariton William Berger saam met die Juliet String Quartet The Broad and Burning Moon aan.

Die “nagmusiek”-konsert beweeg van Respighi se “Il Tramonto” na Barber se “Dover Beach”, en sluit nuwe verwerkings van liedere deur Clara Schumann in, saam met William Alwyn se 3 Winter Poems for String Quartet en Borodin se geliefde strykkwartet No. 2.

Op Vrydag 13 Maart val die kollig op Lutesong Consort se Cupid’s Arrow –

Love Songs from the 17th Century en op Vrydag 20 Maart tree USSO onder leiding van die internasionale dirigent Arjan Tien op met mezzo-sopraan Minette du Toit-Pearce as solis.

 Kaartjies vir al die konserte is aanlyn deur Webtickets te koop.

seisoen van die 2026-Endler-konsertreeks.

Andrej Grilc

WINTER READINESS ASSISTANCE TO ORGANISATIONS

The City of Cape Town recognises the challenges faced by people sleeping rough on the streets and supports non-profit and public benefit organisations by supplementing their existing resources through its winter readiness programme.

This programme supports all qualifying organisations by supplementing resources to increase bed capacity during the harsh winter months while also providing operational support, such as bedding, blankets, hygiene items, food supplies and cleaning materials, to organisations that are not applying solely for a bed increase.

This will be done from 4 May to 30 October 2026 Partner organisations will not be expected to create any permanent accommodation.

Please complete the application form, available at www.capetown.gov.za/readyforwinter, and submit it to Chantal.Krull@capetown.gov.za by 31 March 2026.

Criteria

The participant organisation must:

• Be registered as an NPO or PBO

• Have existing facilities to accommodate clients and address their needs through developmental programmes

• Be compliant with requirements of the Population Certificate (when applying for increase in bed capacity)

• Comply with all health and safety regulations, and agree to site inspections that the City’s Fire and Safety Department Environmental Health Department and Community Arts and Culture Development Department will conduct before approval is granted

• Have an approved building plan

• Submit a draft lay-out/floor plan for the additional bed spaces applied for

• Have a Certificate of Acceptability for Food Premises

‘Jakobregop’ the lead at Suidoosterfees

The 23rd Suidoosterfees will transform Cape Town into a theatrical wonderland from Wednesday 29 April to Sunday 3 May, embracing the theme “Home” (Tuiste) – a celebration of both the festival’s two-decade legacy in the Mother City and the sense of belonging it creates for audiences and artists alike.

This year’s festival promises unprecedented theatrical innovation, headlined by the world premiere of Jakobregop, Hennie Aucamp’s deliciously scandalous satire play that has remained unperformed since its 1988 publication.

Directed by Fred Abrahamse and featuring Dean Balie, Marcel Meyer and Anzio September, this adults-only comedy boldly explores human desire and power dynamics with characteristic wit and sensuality.

The festival’s beloved Short and Sweet programme returns as a creative incubator, offering audiences bite-sized theatrical gems in compelling 30-minute performances. A standout addition is Adam Small 90, where young writers from the Proscenium Drama Competition reimagine the legendary poet’s work through fresh perspectives on belonging, dreams and identity in contemporary South Africa.

Musical theatre takes centre stage with Stadskoor, -Choir, -iKwayara sing diva-pop, featuring iconic pop hits performed with rich choral harmonies alongside drag sensation Manila von Teez, who brings her legendary glamour to the production.

Dance productions push boundaries with Sbo Ndaba’s Bolero, fusing contemporary movement with African rhythms, and Unmute, choreographed by Andile Vellem, which uses South African Sign Language as its primary movement vocabulary, celebrating communication and inclusivity.

Comedy and social commentary blend seamlessly in productions like Baggage, where Jurgen McEwan and Aviwe

Bianca Flanders will grace the Suidoosterfees stage in ‘Karamonkie’ later this year.

Ngabom use sharp sketch comedy to illuminate South African realities, and Pick a Struggle, featuring Zach Esau and Roland du Preez examining minority experiences through incisive humour. Breaking new ground, this year’s festival expands beyond its traditional Artscape hub, incorporating multiple new venues across the city.  The comprehensive programme can be found online at suidoosterfees.com, with tickets available through Webtickets.

Diary | Dagboek

SATURDAY 21 FEBRUARY

. Somerset West: Artist Estelle Kenyon invites painters of all levels to explore mixed media techniques at the conference centre of the HELDERBERG NATURE RESERVE from 09:30 to 15:30. The workshop welcomes beginner to professional artists, offering guidance in acrylics, stencils, spray paint and collage work with optional oils in the reserve’s natural setting. The R750 fee includes all materials, demos, guidance and light refreshments, though participants are advised to take their own lunch. Feel free to book online at www.estellekenyon.com, send a WhatsApp message to 082 928 3797 or email estellekenyon017@gmail.com.

MAANDAG 23 FEBRUARIE

. Strand: Die CHRISTELIKE AFHANKLIKHEIDSDIENS, of Christians Against Drugs (CAD), nooi mense wat probleme met middelafhanklikheid het na hul byeenkoms om 19:00 in die kerksaal van die NG kerk Strand Moedergemeente, op die hoek van Birkenhead- en Faganstraat. Rig alle navrae aan Gerrie by 073 336 3119 of Werner by 082 826 0972.

DONDERDAG 26 FEBRUARIE

. Somerset West: Sluit aan by Karen Ellis in gesprek met die skrywer Etienne Lombard vir die bekendstelling van Die Oeroue, ’n Afrikaanse kosmiese gruwelverhaal wat teen die agtergrond van die Karoo se verlede afspeel. Die geleentheid vind om 17:30 vir 18:00 by die SOMERSET-WESBIBLIOTEEK plaas. Hierdie spesiale boekbekendstelling sal Lombard se jongste werk verken, wat die misteries en donker geskiedenis van die Karoo-streek deur die lens van kosmiese gruwelfiksie ondersoek. Die gesprek beloof om insigte te bied in beide die skrywer se kreatiewe proses en die ryk verhaalvertellingstradisies wat in Suid-Afrikaanse landskappe gewortel is. Bywoning is gratis, maar besprekings is noodsaaklik weens beperkte sitplek. RSVP by 021 400 2877 of karen.ellis@capetown.gov.za. Die boek word deur

Naledi uitgegee, wat gekontak kan word by 078 648 8616, info@naledi.co.za of besoek www.naledi.co.za vir meer inligting.

SATURDAY 28 FEBRUARY

. Somerset West: ST PAUL’S CATHOLIC CHURCH in Andries Pretorius Street is hosting a community book sale from 09:00 to 12:00. With the year in full swing, now’s the perfect time to stock up on good reads from a vast selection of quality books that will be on offer. There will also be delicious eats and freshly brewed tea and coffee and a car wash service while you browse. Card payment facilities will be available for marketgoers’ convenience. Best of all? Every rand raised goes directly to the church’s feeding programme, making a real difference in the community. For book donations or enquiries, call Carole on 084 2999 023.

DINSDAG 3 MAART

. Somerset-Wes: Die HELDERBERG-SENIORKLUB nooi alle afgetredenes hartlik uit na hul volgende byeenkoms by die NG kerk Helderberg in Firmountweg. Die dag begin om 09:00 met tee en verversings, gevolg deur samesang en die hoofprogram om 09:30. Die klub verwelkom Robert Post as gasspeker, wat kom gesels oor “Die Heuningby” – ’n fassinerende onderwerp oor hierdie belangrike skepsels in ons natuur. Die teegeld is slegs R10 vir lede en R20 vir besoekers. Lede word aangemoedig om vriende saam te bring vir hierdie gesellige oggend vol interessante gesprekke en gemeenskap. Alle afgetredenes is welkom om deel te wees van hierdie vriendelike groep wat gereeld byeenkom vir vermaak en kameraderie. Vir enige navrae kan belangstellendes Apolonia Maritz kontak by 021 853 7560 of 082 507 7091.

. Submit all community events, gatherings and meetings for the weekly DistrictMail & Helderberg Gazette diary by sending an email with all the details to jamey.thomas@novusmedia.co.za.

Six amputees saddle up for Epic ride

A Somerset West resident is one of six riders preparing to take on the gruelling 2026 Absa Cape Epic for worthy causes.

Rentia Retief, an artist and amputee athlete, is saddling and teaming up with Travis Warwick-Oliver from Durban for the 692-km race from Sunday 15 to Sunday 22 March. The duo are part of Össur South Africa’s “What's Your Epic?” campaign, which features six amputee riders teaming up for the eight-day mountain-biking challenge.

Since launching late last year, the “What's Your Epic?” campaign has gained strong traction, with the six amputee athletes now deep into training for the stage race. As preparations intensify, the campaign continues to rally South Africans around a powerful belief: that

access to mobility is fundamental to dignity, independence and opportunity.

The three amputee teams will lineup at one of the world’s most demanding mountain biking events, not only to test their physical limits, but to raise awareness and funds for three South African NPOs restoring mobility and independence to people living with limb loss or disability.

Over the past few weeks, the riders have been balancing rigourous training schedules with advocacy, fundraising and community engagement, using the build-up to the Cape Epic to shine a spotlight on the everyday barriers faced by thousands of South Africans who lack access to basic mobility solutions.

“Since launching ‘What’s Your Epic?’, the response has been incredibly encouraging,”

says Blignaut Knoetze, managing director of Össur South Africa.

“What’s been most powerful is seeing how this campaign has resonated. It’s sparked conversations about access, inclusion and what mobility truly means in people’s lives.”

For the six riders, the road to the Epic is as much mental as it is physical. Long training rides, strength work and recovery sessions are all undertaken with a deeper purpose in mind.

“Training for the Cape Epic is intense, but every ride reminds me why this matters,” says Retief, who rebuilt her independence after a cycling accident.

“With the right prosthetic and support, I’ve been able to reclaim the life I knew before losing my leg. Through this campaign, we’re trying to help make that same freedom possible for others.”

Mhlengi Gwala, international para-triathlete and African champion, adds: “This race is about more than endurance. It’s about representation and showing what’s possible when people are given the tools and support to move forward.”

Representing the third team, Brian Style, a passionate cyclist who rebuilt his life through mountain biking, says: “Preparing for the Cape Epic is both challenging and incredibly rewarding. Being part of this campaign gives real meaning to the training, knowing that every kilometre ridden helps create opportunities for others to regain their independence and confidence.”

The funds raised through the

Supporting little fighters

As the global childhood cancer community marked International Childhood Cancer Day (ICCD) 2026 under the theme “Demonstrating Impact: From Challenge to Change”, the Childhood Cancer Foundation South Africa (CHOC) highlighted the life-changing impact of its programmes supporting children, teenagers and their families across South Africa. International Childhood Cancer Day is led globally by Childhood Cancer International (CCI), a worldwide network of childhood cancer organisations advocating for improved care, equity and outcomes for children with cancer, on 15 February.

Through its alignment with CCI and global childhood cancer priorities, CHOC contributes local insight and on-theground impact to a broader international movement focused on access to care, psychosocial support and quality of life. ICCD places a strong emphasis on demonstrating impact, moving from challenge to change and goes beyond awareness to show how, when we stand

together, access to care and psychosocial services create meaningful outcomes for children and teenagers facing cancer and life-threatening blood disorders.

In South Africa, where many families must travel long distances to access specialised treatment, the journey can be overwhelming. CHOC plays a critical role by providing accommodation close to treatment centres, transport assistance, psychosocial and emotional support, as well as educational programmes that help children and adolescents continue learning during treatment.

“Being part of a global movement led by organisations like CCI reminds us that impact is not just a local responsibility, it’s a shared one,” says CHOC CEO Hedley Lewis. “Our role is to ensure that global priorities translate into real, practical support for families here at home.”

Through its national network of CHOC regional offices, the organisation supports families at every stage of the childhood cancer journey, from diagnosis and treatment to survivorship and bereavement care.

CHOC helps to reduce the emotional and financial strain on families, allowing them to focus on what matters most: their child’s wellbeing.

As International Childhood Cancer Day 2026 was marked, CHOC is calling on South Africans to turn awareness into action. One of the simplest ways to get involved is by participating in Flip Flop Day this Friday (20 February).

By wearing flip flops and purchasing a R10 Flip Flop Day sticker, individuals, schools and workplaces can help ensure that children and teenagers with cancer, and their families, do not walk this journey alone. . For more information about CHOC’s programmes, visit www.choc.org.za.

campaign will support Jumping Kids, which provides prosthetic limbs, education access and sport opportunities to children with limb loss; Rejuvenate SA, which supplies mobility aids to adults who cannot afford them, restoring dignity and independence; and Zimele, which supports adults with physical disabilities to regain independence, reintegrate into society, and build economic self-sufficiency.

Together, these organisations are changing lives every day, from helping a child take their first steps to enabling adults to return to work and participate fully in their communities.

“The riders may be the face of the campaign, but the real heroes are the organisations

working on the ground,” says Knoetze. “Our role is to amplify their impact and encourage South Africans to get involved in any way they can.”

As race day draws closer, Össur South Africa is calling on individuals, corporates and communities to support the campaign through donations, fundraising initiatives, partnerships or simply by sharing the message.

“‘What’s Your Epic?’ asks a simple but powerful question,” says Knoetze. “How can each of us help remove barriers and create access? When we support mobility, we support inclusion, opportunity, and futures.” . For more information, contact Amelda Potgieter via email on apotgieter@ossur.com.

Thanksgiving for every step taken

The Boland Islamic Council Women’s League (BICWL) hosted a thanksgiving event to show appreciation and gratitude to all the organisations, teams, volunteers, individuals and businesses who supported their very successful Pink Walk for Cancer, which was held on Sunday 8 February. The thanksgiving event was held at the Charles Morkel Stadium in Strand last Wednesday (11 February), where guests shared their experience behind the scenes and were also treated to a scrumptious lunch.

with some of the essential volunteers and sponsors.

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DEBONAIRS PIZZA STRAND DRIVERS REQUIRED:

Must be able to work days, evenings and/or weekends. Own transport essential and must be in possession of a valid driver's licence/motorbike licence. Please hand in your details at the store or contact the Manager on 021 853 0303.

No stopping them!

This year, the Totalsports Two Oceans Marathon’s (TTOM) Blue Number Club (BNC) will continue to inspire, with just over 3 100 members set to take on the ultra or half-marathon. The numbers are particularly noteworthy: 16 half-marathon BNCs in their 80s, 49 ultra BNCs in their 70s and 147 half-marathon BNCs in their 70s. A further 743 BNC runners aged 60 to 69 will also be in action on Saturday 11 and Sunday 12 April. Seen here: Lawrence Ashworth of Strand Athletics Club.

Richard Gardiner, Dennis Abrahams, Awie Maneveldt, Cedric le Roux, Martha Dyson, Cathy February, Murion Halford, Tholda Smith and Elma Roelf; (front) treasurer Priscilla Lange, chairperson David Bester, vice-chairperson John Sinden and secretary Washeema Flaendorp.

Zooming in on school sports

The electric atmosphere of a Saturday morning derby. The deafening war cries echoing across packed grandstands. The sea of supporters draped in school colours, ready to back their boys and girls to the final whistle. The traditions that run deeper than any trophy cabinet.

School sports in South Africa aren’t just about what happens on the field – it’s about the entire experience, the culture, the passion that splits towns in half and creates heroes overnight.

And from tomorrow (Thursday 19 February), NovaNews is about to revolutionise how we celebrate it all.

NovaNews is launching The School Sports Zone , a dynamic, one-stop destination dedicated entirely to school sports across South Africa. This isn’t your typical results-and-rankings coverage. This is the full package: the stories behind the scorelines; the supporters who bring the gees ; the flashes and war cries that make school sport the most emotionally charged spectacle in the country.

The School Sports Zone will be the authoritative destination celebrating emerging talent, preserving legendary rivalries and building the foundation for the future of South African sport. Because every Springbok, every

Protea, every national representative started somewhere – and that somewhere is usually a school field on a Saturday morning.

NovaNews isn’t stopping at written coverage. Accompanying the launch is The Rugby Factory , a dedicated vodand podcast that dives deeper than ever before into the heartbeat of school rugby in South Africa.

This is storytelling with substance. This is about tracking tomorrow’s Springboks from the grassroots to the big leagues, capturing the journey, the sacrifice, the rivalries and the moments that define young athletes before the professional contracts arrive.

“School sports is at the heart of so many communities in South Africa,” says Dustin Wetdewich, national sports editor of NovaNews. “With The Rugby Factory , we’re not just covering matches; we’re telling the stories of tomorrow’s Springboks.”

Wetdewich is clear – while rugby will feature prominently, The School Sports Zone’s ambition stretches across every code, every discipline, every school making noise on the sporting landscape.

“Beyond rugby, if it has anything to do with school sports, we want to be talking about it,” Wetdewich explains.

“There are great stories to tell around

Twee bemeester swartgordel

Studente van die Junbukan-dojo in Strand het onlangs hul swartgordel-gradering in karate bemeester. Bo is Zoë Steyn, die sensei Stefan Koekemoer en William West. Vir enige navrae oor die dojo, kontak Koekemoer per WhatsApp by 079 849 5291.

school sports. Supporters and school communities aren’t just engaged; they are emotionally and, in many cases, financially invested. Small towns split in half when derby weekends come around. Heroes are born and superstars are made. All this makes for amazing storytelling.”

What sets The School Sports Zone apart is its understanding that school sport is never just about the athletes. It’s about the supporters who travel hours to scream themselves hoarse. It’s about the flashes choreographed with military precision. It’s about the school chants passed down through generations. It’s about the communities that live and breathe every result.

NovaNews is changing the game by reporting beyond the scoreboard, capturing the atmosphere, the emotion and the culture that makes school sport uniquely South African.

The stage is set. The whistle is about to blow. From 19 February, The School Sports Zone becomes the home of everything that makes school sport unforgettable.

. Find The School Sports Zone online at https://novanews.co.za/.

. Follow The Rugby Factory @therugbyfactoryza on TikTok, @RugbyFactory_sa on X, @ therugbyfactory_sa on Instagram and “The Rugby Factory” on Facebook.

St George’s impress at Darling 7s

St George’s RFC delivered a strong performance at the Darling 7s tournament on Saturday 7 February, showcasing skill, teamwork and determination throughout.

Competing in Pool A, the Lulu Boys dominated the group stage with three convincing victories, defeating Darling Vipers 34-0 in their opener followed by a 24-0 shutout against Coronations. Their final pool match saw a 36-5 win over Mamre, securing their position as strong contenders heading into the knockout stages.

The Strand team’s impressive form carried into the semi-final, where they faced a tough Hamlets side. Despite a spirited effort, St George’s were narrowly defeated 19-12, ending their run. However, the Lulus can be proud of their performance, sportsmanship and growth as a team. The club continues building momentum as they prepare for the upcoming season.

SPORT

Woensdag, 18 Februarie 2026

Promotion on the horizon for Macassar CC

Yaseen Ga ar

Strand Cricket Club (SCC) hosted neighbours Macassar Cricket Club (MCC) in a highstakes First Division D derby that saw the visitors edge closer to historic promotion at Gustrouw Sports Ground on Sunday (15 February).

The home team’s winning toss was quickly scuppered by a clinical opening spell. Robin Pretorius and debutant Jayden Rabie set the tone, each claiming a wicket in their very first over to leave SCC reeling. While Strand attempted to steady the ship wickets fell at regular intervals, and only a handful of batsmen managed to find their footing against Macassar’s relentless bowling attack. Ebrahim Latief (35) and Wayne Cloete (29) were the top scorers.

SCC was eventually bundled out for 138 in the 35th over, with MCC’s dominance spearheaded by Morten Jantjies (3/21), Pretorius (3/31) and Rabie (3/41)

Chasing 139 for victory, the crowd was treated to a masterclass by opening batter David “Hussey” Sebastian, who took control of the chase and anchored the innings with a 70run innings. His composure at the crease ensured the visitors reached the target with clinical efficiency to secure the vital victory.

MCC were also in action against Bellville South CC on Saturday (14 February), where captain Rowayne Sinden’s decision to field first handsomely paid-off as they dismissed Bellville South for a only 99 runs in 22 overs. The destruction was led by vice-captain Pretorius (4/36), who was supported by Celenski van Graan

Other local teams and divisions have similar outcomes.

(3/51). Bellville South suffered a catastrophic collapse, sliding from 28/1 to a dismal 41/6 as the relentless MCC attack got to work.

In the chase Macassar openers Shafiq Johannes (20) and Michael Valentine (17) gave the necessary platform as the team eventually crossed the finish line in the 38th over to secure a gritty victory.

MCC have leapfrogged into second spot on the log and need only two more wins to secure promotion to First Division C.

In Strand’s match on Saturday, they suffered a tough defeat against Seacrest CC at a gusty Rocklands Sports Ground.

After winning the toss SCC saw Seacrest post a massive target of 257. The visitors’ attack was led by Sharwaan Naidoo (3/22) and Ricardo Naidoo (3/45), who bowled with great discipline in difficult conditions. But the chase never gained momentum. SCC lost early wickets and were eventually bundled out for 109. Lesley Taylor and Ebrahiem Latief top-scored with 17 each, but it wasn’t enough to bridge the gap in a challenging outing for the local team.

In First Division A, Hottentots Holland CC (HHCC) faced a difficult double-header, falling to Primrose CC by 48 runs and Northerns-Goodwood CC by 14 runs. Against Primrose’s 182/10, HHCC’s Yaasien Railloun (4/42) and Abdul Aziz Temoor (3/15) impressed with the leather, but only Rashaad Salie (53) offered resistance in a 134-run total.

On Sunday, Northerns-Goodwood posted 211 runs, and HHCC fought back through Na-eem Rhoda (48) and Fuad Behardien (38), but stalled at 197/10.

In First Division B, Bonteheuwel CC dominated Somerset West CC (SWCC) with a 112-run victory. Batting first, Bonteheuwel posted 222/9, despite Ghaulied van Schalkwyk’s 3/53. In reply, SWCC only managed to score 110 runs.

In First Division C, Helderberg CC (HCC) snatched a dramatic one-wicket win over Atlantis CC. Dexter Hindley (6/22) delivered a masterclass to bundle Atlantis out for just 93. HCC’s chase nearly faltered despite Tyrone Abrahams’ 46 runs, but the final pair of Bailey Kapfumo (11*) and Enver van Boom (7*) showed nerves of steel to guide the team home.

 This coming weekend only Macassar CC will be in action, travelling to lock horns with Seacrest CC.

Blend of local fortunes