Skip to main content

DistrictMail & Helderberg Gazette – E-Edition – 9 September 2026

Page 1

9 September 2026 - 15 September 2026 | Tel 021 841 4260 | www.districtmailhelderberg.co.za

Hartklop van die Helderberg

www.marksautocare.co.za

strand@marksautocare.co.za 021 110 0301 STRAND BRANCH 076 628 7110

GRA T FREEIS

NM10072450-DP090926

Greening Macassar

Sowing the seeds of change at Zandvliet High: GrowMacassar founder Johan Schoeman (below, right), community leader Felicity Solomons (above, fourth from left), school principal Lester Hendricks (beside her, right), businesswoman Fazlin Railoun (fourth from right), learners and partners plant eight indigenous trees.

Jamey Gordon

A

dream of giving back to the community has taken root in Macassar, with eight indigenous trees planted at Zandvliet High School on Monday (7 September), coinciding with National Arbor Month and Week.

The initiative is the work of GrowMacassar, a community greening project founded by Johan Schoeman, who is part of the DA’s Young Leaders Programme. He said wherever it has a greening or planting project those directly involved must ensure it is sustainable and that the benefit to the community continues beyond the initial exercise. “I get very upset by unfairness and it’s one thing to complain that the world is unfair and not to do anything. So I decided to get out there and make a difference.” The project’s ultimate goal is to raise enough funds to build a tree nursery at the school, equipping learners with tree-rear-

GrowMacassar sees trees as source of hope ing skills they can take into the workplace after matric. “If you create a nursery you can grow 1 000 trees at a time, and then mass planting becomes a lot easier. The ultimate goal is to plant the whole of Macassar full of trees.” The species planted is Ficus natalensis, an indigenous tree chosen for its drought tolerance and resilience to Macassar’s notorious South-Easter wind, with gusts of about 50 km/h in summer, according to Schoeman, causing soil erosion as the area’s sandy top soil is blown away. “Children deserve to grow up playing in the shade. No-one should be outside burnt by the sun.” GrowMacassar garnered the support of community leader Felicity Solomons and businesswoman Fazlin Railoun, and has also concluded an agreement with Prime Trees, which committed itself to buying back a certain number of trees once the

nursery was up and running, bringing in funds for both the project and the school. “That’s how you enter the green economy,” Schoeman said. “It doesn’t mean building a dam or building a wind turbine. In every town’s small way, they can be a part of the growth in that green economy and create employment opportunities for locals.” He said the project means far more to him “than just going to some random place”. Schoeman, who lives in Macassar Road, hopes to one day bring his children to see what is possible “if you actually care about your town”. He also recounted visiting the school about eight months ago and getting a sense of hope among learners about the future of Macassar. “I told them, ‘I’m going to come back and we’re going to plant trees. If you ever lose hope, walk on the school fields and look at the trees planted, and know

Zandvliet High School’s principal Lester Hendricks digs deep for Arbor Month, getting to the root of the matter along with GrowMacassar. Photos: Jamey Gordon

that if our community stands together we’re going to create a better future for all’.” Monday’s planting was just the beginning, as Schoeman hopes to involve more schools as the project grows. “I want to prove to the world what is possible when South Africans stand shoulder to shoulder. There’s a lot wrong, but we're going to change it together.”


2

Distrikspos

9 September 2026

NUUS NEWS

Countrysanger nog kritiek Jamey Gordon

se toestand is kritiek maar bestendig. Ons Die Helderberg-gemeengebede is met sy familie, skap is geskok nadat die vriende en kollegas en country-musikant Tommy met die ander passasiers. Dell, ’n geliefde plaaslike Ons bid dat God sy hand inwoner, ernstig beseer en van genesing oor Oom in die hospitaal opgeneem Tommy sal hou en dat hy is ná ’n botsing in Nelvolkome sal herstel. spruit Saterdagaand (5 “Oom Tommy het September). vroeër die week sy Die voorval het twee country-program vir mense se lewe geëis. Nog vandag opgeneem omdat ander is beseer. hy gisteraand in Nelspruit Volgens Moeti Mmuopgetree het. si, ’n woordvoerder “Die program sal voortDie countrysanger, Tommy Dell. Foto: van die Mpumalangagaan soos beplan, soos dit Solidariteit Helpende Hand Mpumalanga Oom Tommy se wens sou departement van geLaeveld- en KZN Noord-streek/Facebook wees. meenskapsveiligheid, sekuriteit en skakeling, “Ons sal meer inligting het die ongeluk omstreeks 22:00 gebeur. verskaf namate ons dit van sy familie ontDie botsing het na berig word ’n sevang. Bid asseblief saam met ons vir Oom dan-motor en ’n klein bakkie ingesluit. Tommy.” Mmusi het gesê die motor was besig om Solidariteit Helpende Hand Mpumalanga van die Mbombela-kant af in HermansLaeveld- en KZN Noord-streek het later burgweg in te draai terwyl die bakkie daardie aand die volgende geplaas: “Dit reguit van Barberton in die rigting van voel nog onwerklik om te dink dat Tommy Mbombela gery het toe die twee voertuie in Dell, Mara en Samantha so onlangs nog die botsing betrokke was. saam met ons by ons geselligheid was. Twee vroulike insittendes van die motor Vandag is ons harte swaar ná die tragiese – geïdentifiseer as Mara van der Bergh en nuus van hul ongeluk. Samantha Fuller – is in die botsing op die “Ons dink met groot hartseer aan Mara toneel dood. van den Bergh en Samantha Fuller en hul Twee ander insittendes is ernstig beseer families en aan die ongelooflike leemte en nog twee het ligte beserings opgedoen. wat Mara in die musiekbedryf en in soveel Dell was een van die voertuig se insitmense se lewe laat. Rus sag. tendes wat ernstig beseer en in die hospi“Ons gedagtes en gebede is ook by Tomtaal opgeneem is. my Dell, wat nog kritiek in die hospitaal Bok Radio het die nuus Sondagoggend lê. Ons respekteer die familie se versoek (6September) op sy Facebook-blad gedeel: om privaatheid en vra dat almal hulle “Dit is met groot hartseer dat Bok Radio gedurende hierdie uiters moeilike tyd die die nuus moet deel dat een van ons omnodige ruimte gee. roepers en countrymusiek-bekende Tommy “Ons dink ook aan Tommy se dogters Dell gisteraand in Nelspruit in ’n ernstige en familie terwyl hulle hierdie beproewing motorongeluk betrokke was. Oom Tommy deurstaan.”

Rescue tragedy Yaseen Gaffar A rescue effort at Strand Beach turned tragic after emergency services recovered the body of a 39-yearold man from the surf, while police and community members continue an extensive search for a missing 22-year-old former national youth weightlifting champion. The incident unfolded last Wednesday afternoon (2 September) when a swimmer got into difficulty in choppy waters at Strand Beach. Two colleagues rushed into the sea to assist. While an unidentified surfer managed to pull the swimmer to safety, the two rescuers were caught in powerful rip currents and swept out to sea. Early on Thursday morning (3 September), emergency services were alerted to a body floating in the Helderberg Protected Marine Area near the Lourens River mouth. Rescue teams from the National Sea Rescue Institute (NSRI) Gordon’s Bay station, police divers and Western Cape Government Health EMS responded to retrieve the deceased. Authorities believe the recovered body is that of the 39-year-old from Mfuleni, pending formal identification by his family. Strand police have opened an inquest docket, while trauma counsellors and police are providing support to the grieving family. Search operations remained active over the weekend and into Monday (7 September) for the second missing rescuer, a 22-year-old Belhar resident identified as Slade van der Walt. An accomplished athlete, Van der Walt was crowned South African Youth

A Western Cape EMS paramedic attends to the rescued swimmer, wrapped in a blanket on the dunes, as companions look on. Another swimmer died and search efforts continue for one other swimmer reported missing in the surf at Strand Beach since last week. Photo: Yaseen Gaffar

Weightlifting Champion in 2019, won three gold and three silver medals at the 2019 African Youth and Junior Championships, and was named Best Youth Male at the 2021 Western Province Championships. With the Water Policing and Diving Service continuing surf zone operations, Van der Walt’s family and friends have mobilised volunteer search parties to comb the coastline, extending from Strand, Macassar and Gordon’s Bay to Strandfontein and Hout Bay. Close friend Wayne Steenberg issued an urgent call for additional volunteers. “We had a call-out over the weekend at various beaches, including Hout Bay, Gordon’s Bay and Strandfontein,” he said. “It’s been extremely difficult for his family. We are still searching today and hopefully we’ll find more people to help us search. It’s been really difficult for the family, who are now seeking closure.”

ARBOUR WEEK CELEBRATIONS!

F 0 000 G FREE 1 R E FREE E LAVENDER S L ANTSET!IES WANO FERTILIZER S P TOECHAS E E R T R MORE BUY 1 OVER 50 VARI & MORE BUY 2 O ND GET GET 1 TREES A ALL FREE FREE F F % 0 3 O S S LE % 50

PINK JASMINE

PURPLE VYGIE

BUY 1 GET 1

FREE

BUY 2 GET 2

4KG

PETUNIA

BUY 1 GET 1

FREE

BUY 1 GET 1

FREE

ROSEMARY

HERBS ASSORTED

BUY 1 GET 1

FREE

Bellville 021 919 1106 | Milnerton 021 528 4000 | Kenilworth 021 671 9050 | Bergvliet 021 794 2221 | Somerset West 021 852 7400

BUY 1 GET 1

FREE

www.stodels.com

PLANT SAVINGS FELICIA BLUE DURANTA GOLD PETUNIA PERENNIAL ROSEMARY HERBS ASSORTED PINK JASMINE PURPLE VYGIE LAVENDER STOECHAS TEA TREE

BUY 1 GET 1 FREE BUY 1 GET 1 FREE BUY 1 GET 1 FREE BUY 1 GET 1 FREE BUY 1 GET 1 FREE BUY 1 GET 1 FREE BUY 1 GET 1 FREE BUY 1 GET 1 FREE BUY 1 GET 2 FREE

Offer valid till 13 September 2026. While stocks last. NM10072390-AL090926


NUUS NEWS

9 September 2026

Distrikspos

3

‘Pass’for Alf Duncan auctions Yaseen Gaffar

Long-standing local business Alf Duncan Auctioneers of Gants Centre in Strand has abruptly closed its doors and entered voluntary liquidation, leaving local consignors owed hundreds of thousands of rands, unpaid debts and allegations of financial misconduct in its wake.

Golf carts go up in flames Altogether 68 golf carts were destroyed when a fire ripped through a storage structure at Strand Golf Club last Wednesday afternoon (2 September). Jermaine Carelse, spokesperson for the City of Cape Town’s Fire and Rescue Service, said they received a call reporting a fire on the property of the Strand golf course off Beach Road at 15:30. Fire crews from Somerset West, Strand and Sir Lowry’s Pass fire stations were dispatched to the scene, supported by the Incident Management Team (IMT) Type 5. Firefighters extinguished the blaze by 17:40. According to Carelse, initial reports indicate the fire destroyed around 68 golf carts housed in a vibacrete structure on the property. No injuries were reported, and the cause of the fire is currently unknown, Carelse confirmed. Despite efforts, DistrictMail & Helderberg Gazette was unable to obtain comment from the management of the golf club at the time of going to print. Photos: Facebook

The company was officially placed into voluntary liquidation by special resolution registered on Wednesday 5 August, ending months of speculation among creditors struggling to recover proceeds for goods auctioned off as far back as late last year. Among those severely impacted is Managed Moves SA, a local business operating since 2021, that partnered with the auction house to clear and sell client assets, including household furniture and paintings. According to business partners Jacqui Solomon and Roxanne Murray, Alf Duncan Auctioneers owes their firm nearly R200000, representing claims of 10 clients. Despite holding over 50 pages of official remittance advice notes confirming that items were successfully auctioned off in December and January, no funds were transferred into their bank account. “Payments used to take up to three months, but over time, the process got slower,” said Murray. “Given that they held formal acknowledgments of sales and collected funds without remitting them, we believe they knowingly withheld funds while continuing to operate.” Managed Moves SA confirmed they are initiating formal legal action and considering a criminal case. They said there are other complainants that have identical issues. In prior direct discussions, founder Alf Duncan reportedly admitted to the business owners that the company had been

All signage has been removed from the building which once housed Alf Duncan Auctioneers in Mynhardt Street in Gants Centre. The building owner is now looking for new tenants. Photo: Yaseen Gaffar

failing for years before advising them to lodge claim forms. “We haven’t even received those forms,” Murray stated. The fallout from the closure extends to the auction house’s commercial landlord, who asked not to be named. He said that he leased the building to Alf Duncan Auctioneers for six years with 18 months remaining on the lease agreement, and confirmed that the firm did not honour contractual agreements. “They took everything and left rubble behind in the building,” the property owner said. “It took four workers three days and three truckloads of broken glass and planks just to clean the place.” Despite recent claims by Alf Duncan that he was no longer involved with the business, Duncan personally signed the lease agreements and personal sureties.

Braaimaxx Premium Tool Set 4PC

The landlord is currently seeking legal advice to enforce the personal sureties and recover outstanding costs. Joint provisional liquidator Christiaan Bester, appointed by the Master of the High Court, confirmed that the company’s voluntary liquidation was formally registered early August. Bester is scheduled to meet with former director Alf Duncan next week to take charge of the company’s books, affairs and physical assets. Until an assessment of the insolvent estate is conducted, the liquidator cannot confirm the total monetary value of claims filed, the number of affected creditors or projected payout ratios for unsecured consignors. DistrictMail & Helderberg Gazette’s attempts to reach Duncan for comment were unsuccessful.

3 Burner Stealth Gas Braai

Born Free Pro Charcoal Braai Offer

Was R6519

·Free Braai Tong ·Free Braai Cover

Heritage day Promotion

Now R5999

Was R2999

Now R2699 Braaimaxx Paella Pan 28cm With Lid

BraaiMaxx Paella Pan 36cm

CYN0909-DP090926

Get the best in blinds and shutters!

Thermowood shutters will not chip, crack or warp

Moisture and fire resistant and easy to clean

Shutters for excellent control of light, noise and temperature

The perfect finishing touch to decor

SOMERSET WEST

PAARL

FRANSCHHOEK

Safe and secure with trendy decorative Shutterguard

Custom-built in our factory with the highest structural intergrity Stellenbosch Blindsand Shutters enhances your decor, safety and lifestyle with quality blinds and shutters. Our exciting range includes: wooden and aluminium Venetians; natural bamboo or wooden roll-up blinds; vertical blinds, meterial roller blinds; Thermowood shutters; Hurricane shutters and Shutterguard. All our shutters can be installed indoors or outdoors. Get the best value for your money. Phone us for a free quote at your premises

OVERBERG COAST

Irna van Wyk Cell: 082 5722 740 (Irna) 082 452 5072 (Paul) Email: info@stellenboschblinds.co.za www.stellenboschblinds.co.za NM10072456-DP090926


4

Distrikspos

9 September 2026

NUUS NEWS

Alarm Installations Alarm Monitoring CCTV Installations Advanced CCTV Monitoring Access Control Systems

Specialising in: Armed Response Strike Management Guarding K9 Unit LPR: License Plate Recognition

Armed Escorts VIP Protection Sasseta Accredited Training Academy Intelligent Perimeter Protection NM10072459-DP090926

Man (33) in court for wife’s murder Jamey Gordon A 33-year-old man from Nyanga appeared in the Somerset West Magistrates’ Court on a murder charge following the death of his wife, whose body was found in Macassar more than three months ago. The accused was arrested on Friday 28 August and made his first court appearance last Monday (31 August). The matter was postponed for a formal bail application to Tuesday (8 September). However, the outcome was not yet available at the time of going to print. The body of the deceased was discovered along Macassar Road on the evening of Friday 29 May. According to a Macassar police spokesperson, the woman was found with multiple gunshot wounds, including to the face and neck, near the sand mines around 20:00. A projectile was recovered. At the time of discovery the 34-yearold could not be immediately identified. She was wearing a green jacket, blue jeans and black shoes. Police later

found a bank card in one of her pockets, which gave rise to her positive identification. According to police the deceased had left her marital home in Nyanga the week before and was living in Mfuleni at the time. She and the accused had wed in December last year. The accused reportedly told relatives he had last seen his wife when she left their home. However, community members allegedly reported seeing a blue Toyota Rumion at the scene earlier that evening. Police established a vehicle matching that description belonged to the accused, who reportedly owned three such vehicles. Police further followed-up on information that the accused picked the deceased from her workplace in Epping around 14:30 on the same day. This information, according to police, was corroborated by security-camera footage and two colleagues who apparently needed a lift. Vehicle-tracker data reportedly placed the accused’s vehicle at the scene on the same day. The accused remains in custody pending the bail application.

Polisie bring veiligheid na Sir Lowry’s Pass Primêr Leerders van Sir Lowry’s Pass Primêre Skool het verlede Dinsdag (1 September) ’n praktiese les in veiligheid gekry toe die Somerset-Wes-polisie en die Stad Kaapstad se Metro-polisie die skool besoek het. Die owerhede het hul sekuriteitskennis gekombineer om die leerders oor veiligheid op te voed. Die besoek was deel van die polisie en die Metro-polisie se mandaat om sekuriteit in die gebied te verseker en ook deel van die voortdurende poging om veiligheid na die skoolgemeenskap van Sir Lowry’s Pass te bring. Bo: Somerset-Wes-polisie- en Metro-polisiebeamptes daag op by Sir Lowry’s Pass Primêre Skool om waardevolle kennis oor skoolveiligheid aan die leerders oor te dra.

Die span van die Somerset-Wes-polisie en Metro-polisiebeamptes, wat leerders by Sir Lowry’s Pass Primêr met kritieke veiligheidvaardighede toegerus het.

NM10071464-DP020926

PROUDLY SPONSORED BY

WHERE SOME OF SA’S TOP CATS WILL BE COMPETING FOR OVE�LL

SA INDIE CAT!

DATE:

12 SEPTEMBER 2026

OPEN TO PUBLIC

9h00 to 13h00

TICKETS: R30.00 Adults R20.00 Pensioners & children under 12

TICKETS CAN BE PRE PURCHASED ON QUICKET OR AT THE DOOR CARD MACHINE AVAILABLE

VENUE: UNITED CHURCH 28 BRIGHT STREET SOMERSET WEST

NM10072604-DP090926


NUUS NEWS

9 September 2026

90 object to plan Yaseen Gaffar The City of Cape Town’s Development Management Department has received approximately 90 objections regarding a land-use application to consolidate and rezone two vacant properties on the corner of Morgenster and Meerlust streets in Onverwacht, Strand. The application, submitted by NuPlan Africa on behalf of property owner A Nigrini, seeks to consolidate erven 9511 and 9473 and rezone the combined site from Single Residential 1 (SR1) to General Residential 2 (GR2). The development proposal outlines 12 residential units across three double-storey blocks, 18 parking bays and several building line relaxations. Public objections submitted during the participation process raised strong concerns regarding the scale and density of the proposed development. Surrounding residents expressed apprehension over potential traffic congestion – particularly due to the site’s proximity to Altena Primary School – as well as pedestrian safety, building scale, and the cumulative impact on local municipal infrastructure. Addressing the public feedback, Eddie Andrews, deputy mayor and Mayoral Committee member for Spatial Planning and Environment, confirmed that the City is processing all submissions gathered during the advertising period. “The application as received was advertised to affected parties and, as part of the advertising process, the application was circulated to the relevant technical commenting departments within the City for their review and comments," he explained. “The objections received during the advertising period were forwarded to the applicant to afford them an opportunity to respond.” Responding to community concerns about infrastructure capacity, building heights and road safety, Andrews stated that all impacts are being rigorously reviewed. “The City acknowledges the concerns raised regarding infrastructure capacity, building scale, traffic congestion and pedes-

More than 90 objections were lodged against a land-use application to consolidate and rezone two vacant properties on the corner of Morgenster and Meerlust streets in Onverwacht, Strand. Photo: Yaseen Gaffar

trian safety,” Andrews said. “These matters form part of the assessment process and will be carefully evaluated in terms of the Municipal Planning Bylaw, applicable planning policies and comments received from relevant technical departments. “As with all land-use applications, the City will assess the proposal’s potential impact on the surrounding area, including compatibility with the existing neighbourhood, traffic and pedestrian movement, and the availability of municipal services and infrastructure before a decision is made. This will all be addressed in the report submitted to the Municipal Planning Tribunal (MPT).” The next phase of the process involves the compilation of a comprehensive assessment report by municipal planning officials. This report will combine the original development application, the over 90 objections received, technical inputs from municipal service departments, and the applicant’s formal responses. The final report will include a technical recommendation for consideration by the MPT, which holds the decision-making authority for the land-use application. Once the MPT renders its decision, the outcome will be formally communicated to the applicant and all registered objectors. All affected parties will also be informed of their right to appeal. Should an appeal be lodged against the MPT’s decision, the matter will be referred to the City’s Appeal Authority for a final determination.

Major revamp for link road in Gordon’s Bay

A R373,75 million upgrade is underway along the MR108 (Sir Lowry’s Pass Road) in Gordon’s Bay by the Western Cape government. The project will entail the reconstruction of the vital link connecting the N2 and Gordon’s Bay to Faure Marine Drive, widening the corridor and adding dedicated non-motorised transport facilities to improve safety and ease traffic congestion. Completion is scheduled for the end of the year. Photo: Jamey Gordon.

Vonke spat nadat kabel sak ’n Gemeenskapsaktivis van Macassar het ’n beweerde veiligheidsrisiko uitgewys nadat kabels in Smartie Town op die grond gelê is. Christiaan Stewart het verlede Sondag (30Augustus), na DistriksPos & Helderberg Gazette uitgereik nadat hy die voorval by die Stad Kaapstad aangemeld het. Stewart beweer ’n elektriese kabel het in Japonica-singel, Smartie Town neergesak en vonke op die grond veroorsaak, wat ’n veiligheidsrisiko vir veral die gemeenskap se kinders inhou. Hy het gesê die gemeenskap het hom op Donderdag 27Augustus, van die voorval in kennis gestel en hy het dit dieselfde dag deur die Stad se portaal vir diensver-

soeke aangemeld. Alhoewel Stewart die voorval aan die Stad aangemeld het, val Macassar binne Eskom se gelisensieerde elektrisiteitsvoorsieningsgebied. Eskom is die gelisensieerde verspreider vir dié gebied en is dus verantwoordelik vir die instandhouding van infrastruktuur en die hantering van foute. Eskom lys dié verantwoordelikhede self in sy voorlegging as verspreidingslisensiehouer aan die SA Nasionale Energiereguleerder. Die koerant het na die kragverskaffer uitgereik, maar geen kommentaar oor die kabels gekry nie – net dat die krag op Maandag 31Augustus herstel is. “Dit is nog ’n voorbeeld van Eskom se swak diens aan Macassar,” sê Stewart.

Distrikspos

5


6

Distrikspos

9 September 2026

NUUS NEWS

Gebevu has the right spark SPECIALS AVAILABLE AT ALL STORES 10KG CHICKEN LEG ¼

R44000

each

VIS FABRIEK 2PLY TOILET PAPER 18'S

4X1KG CHICKEN NECKS

R4999

R7400 each

3KG CHIPS

R45

Barend Williams

His journey began on construction sites where his father For Monde Gebevu watching worked as a bricklayer. “Growhis father lay bricks sparked ing up working as his assistant, a lifelong passion, albeit I learnt the value of hands-on in another direction, to be craftsmanship.” thorough and exact in one’s By the time he matriculated work. from Nomzamo High School, Gebevu knew he wanted to speIt’s an outlook that has seen cialise in electrical work. the 25-year-old electrician While many of his peers Monde Gebevu (25) recognised as one of the best pursued university degrees he was named one of artisans in South Africa. chose to attend a Technical and South Africa’s best The Nomzamo resident was Vocational Education and Trainranked 30th out of 34 finalists at artisans at the 2026 ing (TVET) college. He enrolled the 2026 South African National South African National at Boland College in Strand, Artisan Awards on Artisan Awards ceremony at completing his N1 through N5 Saturday 5 September. qualifications along with a practhe Radisson Hotel & Convention Centre in Johannesburg on tical apprenticeship. Saturday 5 September. Since 2024, Gebevu has been employed at Finalists were selected through a rigorAux Electrical in Somerset West, covering ous adjudication process involving indusnew electrical installations, routine maintetry experts and sector stakeholders. nance, construction wiring and renewable “It was a deeply humbling moment,” energy set-ups, including solar panel and Gebevu pointed out. “Representing the inverter installations. It was this work that electrical trade as a national finalist and earned him a place among the competiambassador is a huge milestone for my tion’s finalists. career and personal growth.” Gebevu expressed gratitude to Boland Show your support for Strand’s China Eve Fisher, a Teen Universe RSA Pre-Teen finalist, as she takes the national stage at Nelson’s Creek Wine Estate in Paarl on Sunday 13 September.

00

each

2KG PRE-PACKED FISH FINGERS

R12999 each

1.4KG CALAMARI STEAKS

R16950 each

1KG SUPREME STRIPS

021 841 4260

R6299 each

240G SHRIMPS

5M LIGHT DUTY FOIL

R2799 each

(jamey.thomas@novusmedia.co.za)

College for grounding him in the trade and for its guidance during his competition presentation preparation. He also thanked Aux Electrical for teaching him safe industry practices, mentoring and sharing the knowledge needed to succeed as a qualified artisan. “It proves hard work pays off. Being named an ambassador gives me a strong platform to build on.” Gebevu is not waiting to act on this, already leading independent projects, including the building of a church structure last year. He also recently registered his own company with the aim of becoming an established electrical contractor and fullscale employer within 10 years. “My goal is to mentor and employ the next generation of artisans while taking on major commercial and industrial projects across South Africa.” For those looking to follow in his footsteps Gebevu has a clear message: “If you start something, see it all the way through to the end.” He pointed out that the journey to becoming a qualified artisan took persistence, but the skills gained enable those who achieve them to build a real future.

Local lass takes to catwalk China Eve Fisher (15) from Strand has been named a finalist in the Pre-Teen category of Teen Universe RSA. The national finals take place at the picturesque Nelson’s Creek Wine Estate in Paarl on Sunday 13 September. A learner at Rhenish Girls’ High School in Stellenbosch, China Eve is no stranger to the spotlight running in the family. Her mother, Rechaux Browne, appeared on season 2 of the KykNET reality TV series Die Brug and placed in the top 30 at Mrs South Africa 2025. She has been nominated as a finalist for Voelgoed magazine’s Woman of Inspiration 2026. For Browne, watching her daughter step onto this stage is a full-circle moment, a legacy of women uplifting women, passed from mother to daughter.

“When I found out I had made it as a finalist I felt as if I was floating, like a crown had been placed on my heart before it ever touched my head,” China Eve declared. “This means so much more to me than a title; it’s proof that if one believes in oneself and keeps showing up, one’s dreams really can come true. I want every girl watching to know they don’t have to be perfect to be chosen; they just have to be brave enough to try.” Browne shared her own message of support: “To every woman watching, your crown isn’t given, it’s grown. Keep rising, keep shining and lift the next woman as you climb. China, I am so proud to watch you carry that light forward.” Voting closes on Friday 11 September. For more, send an email to rechauxbrowne@gmail.com.

.

Sussies van Strand in top-10 ’n Tweeling van Strand het ling en natuur en ooptheid hul pad na die top-10 in die loop in haar vertolking van landwye laerskoolafdeling Francois van Coke se “Dagvan die Skilder met Woordedrome in Suburbia”. kompetisie oopgeverf. Die tweeling se skilderye Die graad 1-susters Dociahet onder honderde uitgeRose en Elia-Ann Botha van staan. Nadat die kompetisie die Laerskool Hendrik Louw Die tweelingsusters Dociain Julie gesluit het, is dit Rose en Elia-Ann Botha, wat het met hul vertolking van deur Jooste en die bekende “Sonvanger” en “Dagdrome in twee ikoniese Afrikaanse Afrikaanse sanger Jan Suburbia” geskilder het. liedjies die top-10 behaal. Blohm op grond van uitbeelDie Skilder met Woordeding, emosie, komposisie en kompetisie, wat deur Afrikaans.com en die tegniek beoordeel. plaaslike kunstenaar Elsie Jooste aangeDie susters was vroeër in Augustus eers bied is, het laer- en hoërskoolleerders uitonder top-20, gevolg deur die top-10 op Vrygedaag om Afrikaanse liedjies in skilderye dag 28Augustus. uit te beeld. Vanjaar is deelnemers genooi Hoewel die wenners die afgelope Vrydag om een van 15 ikoniese Afrikaanse liedjies (4September) aangekondig is en die tweelte skilder. ing nie die podium gehaal het nie, bly hul Docia-Rose het Valiant Swart se “Sonprestasie as gr.1-leerders onder die top-10 vanger” (2002) uitgebeeld as ’n meisietjie jong kunstenaars in die land merkwaardig. wat letterlik uitreik om die son te vang, Die Strand-susters het bewys hulle kan terwyl Elia-Ann ’n meisie geverf het wat op teen die beste laerskoolleerders in die land ’n kruispad tussen nywerheid en besoedemeeding.

R999 each

1KG SOVEREIGN STRIPS

R6299 each

700G SEAFOOD MIX

R4499 each

800G CATERING PRAWN MEAT

R10999 each

OFFER VALID FROM 9 - 13 SEPTEMBER 2026.

WHILE STOCKS LAST

T&C's Apply. Picture of the product may di�er to the one instore. SAMXXX-AL090926

NM10071836-DP020926

’n Kruispad tussen twee wêrelde is wat Elia-Ann Botha in haar vertolking van Francois van Coke se “Dagdrome in Suburbia” geskilder het.

Docia-Rose Botha het Valiant Swart se “Sonvanger” tot lewe laat kom met ’n meisietjie wat uitreik om die son te vang.


9 September 2026

ADVERTENSIE ADVERTISEMENT

Distrikspos

7


8

Distrikspos

9 September 2026

ALGEMEEN GENERAL

Skool was leeg; bank nou ook Jamey Gordon Nadat ’n verwoestende brand ’n skool se klaskamers einde Julie in puin gelê het, het Natural Learning Academy (NLA) ’n BackaBuddy-veldtog van stapel gestuur met die vriendelike versoek dat gemeenskapslede die hand diep in die sak sal steek om die skool te help herbou. Die brand het op Dinsdag 28 Julie die gebou in Kylestraat, Strand, erg beskadig (“Skool in huis erg in brand beskadig,” DistriksPos & Helderberg Gazette, 5 Augustus). Die eerste noodoproep is omstreeks 20:00 ontvang en die nooddienste was teen 20:50 op die toneel. Brandweerspanne het die vlamme teen ongeveer 23:35 geblus. Die dak is verwoes en die binnekant is ernstig beskadig. Die gebou was ’n huis wat in vyf klaskamers omgeskep is. Geen beserings is aangemeld nie en die oorsaak van die brand is onbekend. Die skool het op Vrydag 28 Augustus op sy Facebook-blad gedeel: “Ons het amptelik ’n BackaBuddy-geldinsamelingsveldtog van stapel gestuur om ons herstelpogings te ondersteun en ons te help om ’n veilige en stabiele leeromgewing vir ons leerders en personeel op te rig. Ons is ongelooflik dankbaar vir die oorweldigende goedhartigheid, ruimhartigheid en steun wat julle reeds aan ons betoon het. Elke bydrae – groot of klein – maak ’n wêreld se verskil.” NLA is ’n klein onafhanklike skool met 65 leerders met doelbewuste lae onderwyser-tot-leerder-verhoudings. Volgens die BackaBuddy-veldtogbeskrywing is die skool rondom een idee gebou – “elke kind verdien ’n klaskamer waar hulle verstaan word; nie net geakkommodeer word nie. Vir baie van ons kinders is struktuur en roetine nie ’n lekker-om-te-hê-ding nie – dit is wat leer heeltemal moontlik maak.” Die beskrywing deel voorts dat

die betrokke leerders na die skool se Millsstraat-kampus, wat nie ontwerp is om almal te huisves nie, verskuif word. Om klasse aan die gang te hou en roetines ongeskonde te laat, het die skool tydelike modulêre klaskamers en bykomende sanitêre geriewe op die Millsstraat-terrein nodig. “Om vyf klaskamers en bykomende toilette op ons Millsstraat-kampus aan die gang te hou sodat ons kinders nie ’n enkele dag meer verloor as wat hulle reeds het nie...” word die veldtog beskryf wat die geld sal doen. “Vir ons leerders veral kan ontwrigting van roetine maande se harde vordering ongedaan maak. Jou ondersteuning help ons om dit te beskerm.” Die skool het ’n versekeringseis wat reeds aan die gang is, maar erken dat die dekking nie ver genoeg sal reik nie. “Ons verwag die dekking nie ver genoeg sal strek om die werklike koste om hierdie kinders dadelik terug in ’n behoorlike klaskamer te kry, te dek nie.” Die skool staar ’n aanvangskoste van ongeveer R48 000 in die gesig, plus ’n maandelikse huur van ongeveer R24 000 terwyl die tydelike geriewe nodig is.” Die veldtog is gevestig om R100 000 in te samel. Tot dusver is R14 000 deur 13 skenkers bygedra. Skenkings gaan direk aan bevestigde begunstigdes. Daar is egter ’n beperking: NLA is ’n private skool, nie ’n geregistreerde organisasie sonder winsoogmerk nie. “Ons is nie in staat om ’n Artikel 18A-belastingsertifikaat vir jou skenking uit te reik nie,” lui die veldtog. “Maar elke rand gaan presies waar ons sê dit sal gaan – om ons kinders veilig in die skool te hou.” Die skool vra ook sakeondernemings om direk kontak te maak as hulle materiaal, vervoer of dienste kan aanbied. Die veldtog loop tot Maandag 19 Oktober. Om te skenk, besoek “Natural Learning Academy Fire Relief” by www.backabuddy.co.za.

.

Bestuur en personeellede van Van Niekerk-Benadehof tydens die viering van altesaam 80 jaar van omgee. Agter (van links) is Riël Tredoux, Hannetjie Windt, Stefan Calitz, Karin Langford, Charmaine van den Heuvel, Linette Ras en Piet du Toit. Voor: Alida Kruger en Natasha Raubenheimer. Foto: Barend Williams

Omgee gevier Barend Williams

Van Niekerk-Benadehof-aftreeoord het die afgelope Dinsdag (1 September) 80 jaar van omgee met speletjies, vermaak en gemeenskapsgees gevier. Van Niekerk bestaan nou 45 jaar, terwyl sy susterstehuis, Benadehof, 35 jaar geword het. “Van Niekerk-Benadehof se 45ste en 35ste bestaansjare vier nie net die geskiedenis van twee geboue nie, maar ook dekades van versorging, gemeenskap, diens en saamwees,” sê Natasha Raubenheimer, die aktiwiteitskoördineerder van die tehuis. Die tehuis is ’n dienstak van die Afrikaanse Christelike Vrouevereniging (ACVV), wat vanjaar sy 122ste bestaansjaar vier. Die geskiedenis van die tehuis begin toe die Van Niekerk-familie van tannie Tassie van Niekerk dit destyds moontlik gemaak het deur gedeeltelike skenkings meer as vier dekades gelede, terwyl die Benade-familie tien jaar later ’n belangrike rol in die totstandkoming van Benadehof vervul het. “Die Van Niekerk- en Benade-families se bydraes leef vandag voort deur die name wat in die geboue verewig is,” sê Raubenheimer. Vandag is die tehuis ’n tuiste vir 145

bejaardes tussen 70 en 103 jaar oud. Die oudste inwoner, Johanna “Joey” Faure, woon al van 2023 af in die bystandafdeling van Van Niekerk-Benadehof en het haar 103de verjaardag op 8 Augustus gevier. Om vir inwoners soos Faure om te gee, het die tehuis 49 personeellede wat daagliks na hul versorging en welstand omsien. Die feesviering het verskeie hoogtepunte gehad. Bejaarde inwoners het die dag geniet met vissievang, pop a balloon, whack-a-mole en boontjiesakgooi. Hannetjie Windt se besondere diens is ook vereer nadat sy ’n ACVV-veertjie ter erkenning van haar 20 jaar diens by die tehuis ontvang het. Nog ’n hoogtepunt was die amptelike opening van die nuwe Koekeloer-koffiewinkel. “Die bestuurder, Alida Kruger, het die visie gehad om ’n warm en gesellige ruimte te skep waar inwoners, familie en vriende rustig saam kan koffie drink en kuier,” verduidelik Raubenheimer. Western Province Caterers (WPC) het die koffiewinkel ondersteun en R50 000 tot die projek bygedra om dit moontlik te maak. Om die dag af te sluit, het Kruger ’n spesiale woord van dank aan Blue Crane Funerals, Kind2Hearing, Town on Tap, die predikante van die Suiderstrand-gemeente en WPC, wat tot die verjaarsdagvieringe bygedra het, gerig.

Give new, gently-used bras Die uitgebrande binnekant van ’n klaskamer by die Natural Learning Academy se Kylestraat-kampus in Strand, nadat ’n brand op Dinsdag 28 Julie deur die gebou gewoed het. Gelukkig was die gebou toe leeg. Die skool het ’n noodveldtog op BackaBuddy van stapel gestuur om tydelike klaskamers te finansier.

Verwoesting by die Natural Learning Academy se Kylestraat-kampus ná die brand.

PUBLIC PARTICIPATION PROCESS/PUBLIEKE DEELNAME PROSES AMENDMENT OF PIPELINE ROUTE FOR PORTION 360 OF FARM NO. 959, STRAND EA Ref. No: 16/3/3/1/A3/57/2017/25 Notice is hereby given of a public participation process in terms of the National Environmental Management Act, 1998 (Act No. 107 of 1998), and the Environmental Impact Assessment Regulations, 2014, as amended. English: After receiving the Environmental Authorisation as listed above, the applicant now applies for amendment of the EA. The amendment focuses on amendment of the authorised pipeline route. This advertisement serves as notication of the draft Amendment Report (dAR), and I&APs to register should they wish to receive more information. The 30-day Public Participation Process will run from 11 September 2026 until 12 October 2026. The dAR may be accessed at www.groenbergenviro.co.za. Afrikaans: Na ontvangs van die omgewingsmagtiging soos hierbo uiteengesit, word nou aansoek gedoen om 'n wysiging van die magtiging. Die wysiging het betrekking op die verandering in belyning van die goedgekeurde pyplynroete. Hierdie advertensie dien as kennisgewing van die voorgestelde wysiging, en vir B&GP's om te registreer indien hulle meer inligting wil ontvang. Die 30-dae Openbare Deelnameproses sal loop vanaf 11 September 2026 tot 12 Oktober 2026. Hierdie kennisgewing dien as kennisgewing van die beskikbaarheid van die konsepwysigingsverslag (dAR) wat verkrygbaar is by www.groenbergenviro.co.za. Date of this notice: 9 September 2026 GroenbergEnviro (Pty) Ltd: PO BOX 1058, Wellington 7654 Details of EAP/OBP: Mische Molife - Cell: 079 111 7378; E-mail: mische@groenbergenviro.co.za NM10072026-PL100926

As part of a national collection drive across all 50 Mediclinic Southern African hospitals, Mediclinic Vergelegen has already gathered around 120 bras for NPO ILoveBoobies. The campaign asks community members to donate new or gently-used bras in good condition. Each garment is inspected and individually packaged before being distributed during ILoveBoobies’ community screening drives to women who may not be able to afford their own. Hospital general manager Marquin Crotz said the response from staff and doctors’ rooms had been encouraging. “This cause speaks to the facility’s broader breast-cancer awareness goals.” Crotz emphasised that early screening and detection can lead to a better prognosis, improves survival rates and less severe treatment. “For community members we welcome any donations you may have towards this worthy cause said. Mediclinic Vergelegen will continue to have a box for bra donations until the end of October. Please continue to support the initiative.” ILoveBoobies is a South African NPO dedicated to improving early breast cancer detection by taking free breast health education, clinical screenings and access to diagnostic care directly into underserved communities. Its mobile screening programme removes many of the financial, geographic and social barriers that prevent women from accessing critical breast healthcare. Women requiring further investigation are supported through the referral process for mammograms and diagnosis, and into the state healthcare system when treatment is needed. Dr Dewald Coolen, a general surgeon, advised that women should start having

Pictured at the donation box are Natalie Robbertze (left, Mediclinic Vergelegen doctor relationship manager) and Annelize Bosman (personal assistant to specialist surgeon Dr Dewald Coolen).

mammograms at age 40, ideally every year or at least every two to three years, based on guidelines from the Cancer Association of South Africaand the Radiological Society of South Africa. The risk of breast cancer increases especially after 40, although women at high risk may develop it earlier. Some countries recommend routine mammograms until age 74, but Coolen advises doing so for as long as they are able and lengthen life expectancy. The donation box remains at Mediclinic Vergelegen until the end of October, giving Helderberg residents just under two months to contribute to the cause.

.


LEEFSTYL LIFESTYLE

9 September 2026

Marking 5 decades of grace For five decades Helderberg College church has stood as a spiritual beacon in the basin, a place where faith, friendship, music, education and service has touched generations of lives. The sanctuary of the Seventh-day Adventist church was completed and dedicated in Spring 1976. “Fifty Years of Grace” mark a remarkable journey of faith and the enduring partnership among the church, Helderberg College of Higher Education and the wider community. Over the years the church has welcomed students, families, academics, professionals, young people and senior citizens through its doors, continuing to provide a place for worship, encouragement, meaningful relationships and practical service. “Fifty Years of Grace” is a celebration of people. In celebration of the jubilee a series of special events and services will take place over the weekend of Friday 25 and

Saturday 26 September. The festivities kick off with a music concert, It’s Your Song, Lord, on Friday at 19:00. The main event on Saturday features a historical overview of the past 50 years, presented by pastor Hein von Hörsten and elder Kevin Burge at 09:30. The divine service at 11:00 will be delivered by pastor Morné Fürstenburg. At the 15:00 service Roné Fürstenburg and former pastor Brian Sterley will focus on evangelism and future outreach initiatives. Whether you have been part of Helderberg College Church for 50 years, five years or have never crossed its threshold, you are warmly invited to join the celebration. Visitors and members alike will discover a community where the story of the past points towards an exciting future. For more details, visit hbcsdachurch.org, contact the church office on weekdays from 09:00 to 13:00 or Varinia Oosthuizen on 021 855 2330.

Dagboek | Diary

WEDNESDAY 16 SEPTEMBER Somerset West: HEARTLANDS BABY SANCTUARY holds its 10th annual meeting from 14:00 to 16:00 at 794 Old Paardevlei Road. The board invites members of the public to join as the organisation celebrates its journey from survival to growth. RSVP via email to Tarryn at reception@heartlandsbaby.org.

FRIDAY 11 SEPTEMBER Somerset West: Estian Calitz, professor emeritus in Economics and Research Fellow at Stellenbosch University, will deliver a presentation titled “Fiscal and Economic Policy Options for South Africa” at the next SOUTH AFRICA TODAY meeting at Somerset West United church from 14:00 to 15:30. Calitz served as director-general of finance of the South African government from 1993 to 1996. His talk will explore why South Africa’s competitive ranking dropped from 39th in 2002 to 64th (worst) among 64 countries in 2025, while China climbed from position 31 to 16 over the same period. Parking is available at the rear of the church and at the Bright Street entrance. Members must wear their membership cards and contribute R10. Non-members pay R20. Contact Danie Schoeman via email on dschoeman2745@gmail.com or WhatsApp on 082 783 9582.

.

THURSDAY 17 SEPTEMBER Somerset West: CHILD WELFARE SOUTH AFRICA HELDERBERG invites the community to its annual meeting at the United Church in Bright Street at 10:00. The organisation will be celebrating 70 years of service to children, families and communities, and invites everyone to come and enjoy the morning with them. For more information, call 021 852 3126. MONDAY 28 SEPTEMBER Somerset West: DE BEERS AFC holds a special general meeting at the De Beers clubhouse at 18:30. For more information on the gathering, send an email to admin@debeersafc.co.za.

Distrikspos

9

Winemakers at Vergelegen event South African winemaking legends, rising stars and industry stakeholders gathered at Vergelegen Wine Estate in Somerset West for Tim Atkin MW’s South Africa 2026 Special Report Wines of the Year showcase on Tuesday 1 September. A record 247 wines received 95 points or more, Atkin’s equivalent of a gold medal. The tastings were held in partnership with Private Clients by Old Mutual Wealth. “Looking back over the last two and a half decades, from now to my first visit in 1990, I am constantly amazed at, and delighted by, the progress the industry has made and continues to make,” said Atkin, an internationally acclaimed British wine journalist, critic and Master of Wine. “I was very impressed by the quality of what I tasted in 2026, especially from the 2025 vintage, which I would rate between nine and 10 out of 10, making it the best harvest since 2017.” Atkin said he hoped that his reviews and scores as well as medals of excellence for wines scoring over 90 points, would boost awareness of the outstanding quality of South African wines. “More than ever, we need to tell the world what’s happening in the Cape.” Vergelegen enjoyed impressive results, with nine wines scoring 91 points or higher. The 2025 Vergelegen Estate White and 2024 Vergelegen V both scored an outstanding 95 points, while the 2024

Tim Atkin MW and Vergelegen managing director Wayne Coetzer.

Sebastian Beaumont, owner of Beaumont Family Wines, Madeleine Stenwreth MW, a wine consultant from Sweden, and Duncan Savage, owner and winemaker of Savage Wines.

Vergelegen Estate Red followed closely with 94. Three wines – the 2024 Cabernet Sauvignon Reserve, 2025 Chardonnay Reserve and 2024 Merlot Reserve – each earned 93 points, with the 2024 The Mill scoring 92. The 2025 Florence Rosé and Wild Winds Sauvignon Blanc rounded out the strong showing with 91 points. Vergelegen wines are available directly from the estate, through its online shop, and local and international stockists. Order the Tim Atkin South Africa 2026 Special Report online at www.timatkin.com.

.

come visit us today

207 Mills Street • Gants Plaza • Strand • Helderberg

GL+ CVT

WAS R270 900

NOW R252 900

Save R18 000 GL MT

Save R18 000

WAS R232 900

NOW R214 900

Save R18 000 GL MT

WAS R269 900

NOW R251 900

Save R24 000

Panelvan

WAS R303 900

NOW R279 900

Save R22 000

WAS R231 900

NOW R209 900 Images of illus#ra�"e purpose only

NM10072465-DP090926


SPORT

9 September 2026

Distrikspos

11

Gryp jou tekkies; hol met ’n woord Trek jou tekkies aan en kies die hasepad in Afrikaans tydens vanjaar se “Velddraf met woorde”. Die Toyota Stellenbosch Woordfees vier op Sondag 11 Oktober die woord, die fees en die gees met hierdie gewilde pretdraf. Jy is by die “Velddraf met woorde” meer as net ’n nommer – deelnemers draf of stap met ’n unieke Afrikaanse tongtrippelterm uit die Woordeboek van die Afrikaanse Taal (WAT) as registrasienommer. Almal is welkom – van “doekvoet” tot “donderweer” en “blitsig” tot “baanbreker”. Of dalk is jy “holderstebolder”, “spoedvraat”, “agteros” of “slampamper”. Dit is ’n viering van die bekkigheid van Afrikaans, waar taal in ’n vrolike veldwedloop voete kry. Jy kan stap, draf of strompel. Waar, hoe en hoe ver? Die vraag moet eerder wees, tot hoe ver is jy in staat? Jy kan laat spaander of bedaar… Deelnemers kan kies om die Vastrap of die Japtrap aan te durf. Die Vastrap is 10 km lank en die Japtrap is 5,9 km. “Velddraf met woorde” vind plaas op die pragtige Dornier-wynlandgoed, net anderkant Jamestown buite Stellenbosch, aan die voet van die Helderberge. Verwag natuurskone uitsigte, baan jou weg deur die plaas se wingerde en geniet die vars lug.

“Velddraf met woorde” is vir jou genot en vir die taal, dus sal geen amptelike tye geneem word nie. Die topdriedrawwers in die 5 km- en 10 km-wedlope (mans en vroue) sal egter podiumpryse wen. Al maak jy teen ’n slakkepas klaar, kan jy ook dalk iets tydens die geluktrekkings wen en elke deelnemer ontvang ’n spekboompie as medalje. Laat die woorde soos klippies in jou mond rondrol en dink solank wat vir jou die mooiste en lekkerste woord in Afrikaans is. Die WAT gaan by die geleentheid wees as jy belangstel om jou gunstelingwoord te borg. Jy kan selfs die 100-meterWAT-eeuloop teen enige pas oorweeg om 100 jaar van die WAT te vier. Die 10-km-Vastrap (R200) begin om 08:00, die 5-km-Japtrap (R150) om 08:15 en die 100-m-WAT-eeuloop (R50) om 09:15. Dag-inskrywings kos R50 ekstra, maar slegs as nog kaartjies beskikbaar is en dit nie aanlyn uitverkoop is nie. “Velddraf met woorde” is beperk tot 500 inskrywings. Doen dus eerder verspring om betyds jou plek by Quicket te bespreek. Ontvlug aan die rompslomp van jou bestaan. Moenie ’n sofapokkel of inkoejawel wees nie. Kom draf, kom stap, kom vier Afrikaans saam met die Toyota Stellenbosch Woordfees se opwindende “Velddraf met woorde”.

Die jaarlikse “Velddraf met woorde” word op Sondag 11 Oktober by die Dornier-landgoed as deel van die Toyota Stellenbosch Woordfees aangebied.

Get ready to show gratitude, make strides

Paddler in national spotlight Helderberg surfski world champion Kira Bester was nominated for the Sportswoman of the Year award at the 19th South African Sport Awards alongside cricketer Laura Wolvaardt and middle-distance runner Prudence Sekgodiso, who ultimately won the accolade. The ceremony was held at the Sun City Superbowl in the North West Province on Sunday 23 August, under the theme “Crowned by Greatness”. Bester, who defended her ICF Canoe Ocean Racing world crown in Durban last October – a victory dedicated to her late coach and mentor Pete Cole – described the experience as wonderful. “It was a wonderful experience. I wasn’t selected as the winner, but I really enjoyed being out there,” she said. Paddle Sport SA took to its Facebook page on Friday 28 August, posting: “Regardless of the result, you have raised the profile of ocean paddling for South Africa and no doubt will continue to set the benchmark for paddling excellence and inspire others to do the same. Well done, all the best and we are very proud of your success.”

Fitness enthusiasts, families and community teams across the Western Cape are invited to celebrate Heritage Day with purpose as The Gratitude Run 2026 returns to the scenic Dornier Wines near Stellenbosch on Thursday 24 September. Organised by Distance For Difference (D4D), the annual sports fundraiser combines movement, charity and local community spirit. Founded in 2005, D4D has raised more than R14 million through athletic events to directly support vulnerable children in need. This year’s edition features four entry options catering to all fitness levels: • 5km Fun Run/Walk – designed for families, casual walkers and beginners; • 10km Trail Run – a classic route winding through the local winelands terrain; • 20km Trail Run – updated for 2026 with a slight loop extension of roughly 500 m; runners completing two loops will cover approximately 21,1km, effectively serving as an unofficial trail half-marathon and testing the waters for a dedicated category in future years; and • 3×4×5 Team Relay – for corporate, school, club or friend groups of three to five participants; teams compete across men’s, women’s or mixed categories to complete as many 3 km laps as possible within a four-hour window.

The D4D Gratitude Run is strictly limited to 900 entries, with runners invited to sign up online via Quicket.

The event enters 2026 on a high after participants gave it a five-star rating last year, highlighting the venue, organisation and warm atmosphere. Early ticket sales are pacing well ahead of last year’s timeline. “All profits from the event go towards the work and beneficiaries of D4D,” said Stéphan Pieterse, founder and chairperson of D4D. “Every entry, every team, every

sponsor and every volunteer helps us continue supporting children in need. The Gratitude Run is a practical way for people to spend Heritage Day doing something active, meaningful and hopeful.” Entries are limited to 900 and are open online via Quicket. For more details, visit www.d4dsa.co.za or follow @distance4difference on social media.

.


SPORT Woensdag, 9 September 2026

Stick action on a global stage Somerset West Hockey Club’s first team star Ongeziwe Mali drives forward for the South African women’s hockey team during their FIH Hockey Women’s World Cup clash against Japan at Wagener Stadium in Amsterdam, Netherlands on Friday 21 August. The South African women’s team finished 14th overall after a tough campaign in Pool D and a narrow loss in the 13th-place playoff. Competing across joint host nations Belgium and the Netherlands, both the SA men’s and women’s sides delivered high-drama performances on the global stage. The South African men’s team wrapped up their tournament with a hard-fought 12th-place finish. The pinnacle of their high-octane campaign came in a placement match against Pakistan. Striker Mustapha Cassiem spearheaded the African champions’ attack, netting a phenomenal brace. Despite a fierce comeback, which saw the game end in a thrilling 4-4 deadlock at the final whistle, SA ultimately suffered heartbreaking defeat in the subsequent penalty shootout. Photo: Jan van Zyl

Berge advance to semis Sir Low to host RU in SLC encounter

H

elderberg Rugby Club secured their place in the Western Province Super League A Top 8 semi-finals with a hard-fought 33-25 victory over SK Walmers at Charles Morkel Stadium in Strand on Saturday 5 September.

The quarter-final produced an entertaining and closely contested encounter, with both sides refusing to give an inch, but Helderberg ultimately held their composure in the closing stages to book their place in the next round. The home team opened the scoring in the 12th minute when they were awarded a penalty, as Michael Visser making no mistake from the kicking tee. In the 24th minute, Visser added another three points to give Berge an early 6-0 advantage. SKW responded in the 27th minute when Matthew Coenraad crossed the try-line, with Moegamat Kannemeyer adding the conversion to put the visitors ahead (6-7). Helderberg hit back almost immediately, when Dian Koen crossed over for his team’s first try of the afternoon in the 31st minute. Visser converted to restore the host’s lead (13-7). SKW continued to apply pressure and were rewarded with a penalty in the 34th minute, which Kannemeyer converted. Three minutes later, Quade Solomons crossed to put the visitors back in front (13-15). Helderberg, however, had the final say before the break. Ricardo Links scored just before half-time, giving the home side an important psychological boost going into the interval with an 18-15 lead. The second half continued in the same competitive fashion. After 56 minutes, Visser crossed the line for Berge and converted his own try, extending the home side’s

advantage (25-15). SWK refused to surrender, with Solomons scoring his second try in the 59th minute. Four minutes later, Mueez Damon added another try for the visitors as the momentum swung back in their favour (25-25). With the match evenly poised, Berge produced a crucial response in the 72nd minute when Junior Fortuin scored to put the hosts back in the lead (30-25). Then, with the clock reaching the 80th minute, Helderberg were awarded a penalty, which Visser calmly slotted to seal a 33-25 victory. ALL SAINTS ADVANCE The result sees Helderberg progress to the WP Super League A Top 8 semi-finals against league winners Villager Rugby Club this coming weekend, with the venue yet to be confirmed at the time of going to print. Super League B Top 8: Macassar's campaign came to an end following a nail-biting 31-28 defeat against NTK. Meanwhile, in the Super League B Bottom 8 All Saints advanced following a no-show from Goodwood, while St George’s forfeited their fixture to exit the competition. The Olla Boys now face Bellville at Helderzicht Sports Grounds on Saturday (12 September). In the Super League C Bottom 8, Sir Lowrians outplayed Strand United 24-7, Raithby Universals edged Atlantis 36-32, and Scottsdene-Central ground out a 17-12 victory over Strand RFC. The results set up a mouth-watering local derby in the semi-finals, with Sir Lowrians hosting RU at Sir Lowry’s Pass Sports Ground this weekend. In the Northern League, the fixture between Faure and Gordon’s Bay Pioneers was cancelled.

Helderberg Rugby Club’s ever-present Quinn Visser goes low to bring the SKW hooker down.

An ecstatic Dian Koen of Helderberg RFC embraces a teammate.

Michael Visser celebrates a try for Helderberg.

Helderberg’s Mauritz Swart breaks through the SK Walmers defence to charge ahead during their WP Super League A Top 8 quarter-final at Charles Morkel Stadium on Saturday 5 September. Photos: Peter Bee

Berge’s Bokkie Carstens stands firm to block his opponent, with eighthman Dian Koen tackling in support.


Turn static files into dynamic content formats.

Create a flipbook
DistrictMail & Helderberg Gazette – E-Edition – 9 September 2026 by Novus Media - Issuu