Hermanus Times-E-edition-18 March 2026

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Crime drops by 10,5%

4,5%.”

Improvements shown across categories

Overall crime in Hermanus has decreased by 10,5% in the current financial year, with significant drops in serious violent crimes including a 20% reduction in murders and a 40,5% decline in attempted murders, according to latest police statistics.

Station commander Col Gustaf Tamboer released the crime figures covering the period from 1 April 2025 to 12 March 2026, compared to the previous financial year, showing improvements across most major

crime categories.

Contact crimes, which include violent offences against persons, dropped by 7,7% overall. According to Tamboer the most significant improvements were recorded in attempted murder cases, down 40,5%, and murders, which decreased by 20%.

“Sexual offences also showed positive trends, with rape cases down 4,5% and sexual assault incidents decreasing by 20%,” he stated. “However, assault with intent to cause grievous bodily harm increased by 9,1%, while common assault decreased by

PROPERTY CRIME PLUMMETS

The most dramatic improvements according to Tamboer were seen in property-related crimes, which fell by 28,7% overall. “Residential burglaries decreased by 24,8%, while business burglaries dropped by 44,4%.”

Vehicle-related crimes showed particularly strong improvements, with motor-vehicle and motorcycle theft down by 52%, and theft from vehicles decreasing by 27,1%. Stock theft was eliminated entirely, showing a 100% reduction.

ROBBERY INCIDENTS DOWN SIGNIFICANTLY

Robbery with aggravating circumstances fell by 31,2%, while common robbery decreased by 14,7%. House robberies, a major community concern, dropped by 38,4%, and business robberies decreased by 33,3%. The overall subcategory of aggravated robbery showed a 36,6% decline.

“While most crime categories improved, crimes heavily dependent on police action increased by 26,3%, driven primarily by drug-related offences, which rose by 2,4%, and driving under the influence of alcohol or drugs, up 46,5%,” he said. What is striking is the fact that the illegal possession of firearms and ammunition, however, decreased by 38%.

To page 2.

Villiersdorp faces severe water crisis

Villiersdorp is grappling with a severe water crisis that threatens to leave taps running dry, prompting urgent community fundraising efforts to purchase essential infrastructure the municipality has failed to provide.

The emergency has reached a critical juncture, with the Villiersdorp Chamber of Commerce and Ratepayers Association (VSBBV) launching a public donation drive to fund a borehole pump after municipal procurement delays have stalled the project indefinitely.

Ralph Sheffield-Webb, Chair of the VSBBV, revealed that the crisis began six months ago when both of the town's boreholes became non-operational and vandals damaged the Kommissiekraal River extraction infrastructure.

"At the time, the town was already exceeding its water quota from the Elandskloof Irrigation System, which triggered threats from the Irrigation Board to cut off excess supply," Sheffield-Webb said.

The situation has since deteriorated, with farmers experiencing a 30% reduction in their water quotas and the town facing the prospect of losing municipal water access entirely. While the Theewaterskloof Municipality responded by drilling a new borehole and reinstating the Kommissiekraal infrastructure, Sheffield-Webb said they "failed to procure a pump or plan for its connection to the purification plant."

The ratepayers association has already invested over R30 000 in removing and attempting to repair the second borehole's pump, only to discover it was beyond salvation." Recent discussions with the Director of Infrastructure suggest that delays in municipal procurement could be lengthy - potentially worsening the crisis," Sheffield-Webb warned.

The association is now considering purchasing the pump independently but faces

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LETTERS/BRIEWE Lettersmaybeedited forclarityandstyle. We cannotsupply reasons fornon-publication. Shorter lettersarepreferred. Briewe kan geredifeeren verkort word Redes word nie verskafhoekom’n bepaaldebriefnie geplaas word nie. Korterbriewekry voorkeur.

financial constraints after their substantial initial investment. In a show of solidarity, Villiersdorp Tourism Association has pledged to match community donations up to R5 000, despite their own financial limitations. Jon-Jon Keegan, Chair of Marketing & Web for the tourism association, said the gesture would "exhaust our available funds for the year for donations to causes within the Villiersdorp community, but we strongly believe it's a vital requirement."

The tourism body plans to support the campaign through email alerts to subscribers, website promotion, and social media outreach, while coordinating with the VSBBV to amplify the message through community networks.

Community members can contribute to the cause through an online donation platform, with organisers emphasising that any amount would help secure the town's water supply. The crisis highlights broader infrastructure challenges facing Villiersdorp, with both organisations working behind the scenes to address issues including deteriorating roads and waste management problems. Sheffield-Webb urged residents to join the VSBBV for R100 annually to strengthen collective advocacy efforts for the town's development needs. The water emergency serves as a stark reminder of the critical infrastructure gaps facing rural Western Cape communities and the increasing reliance on local organisations to fill municipal service delivery shortfalls. Donations can be made through the VSBBV's online platform, with contributors redirected to PayFast for secure payment processing.

From page 1.

OTHER NOTABLE CHANGES

Contact-related crimes fell by 8%, with arson down 28,5% and malicious damage to property decreasing by 7,4%.

Other serious crimes dropped by 4,3%, with theft down 10,4% and shoplifting decreasing by 1,6%.

Fraud showed a marginal increase of 0,4%.

Despite the positive overall trends, Tamboer highlighted persistent challenges that require continued attention, including taxi violence, extortion, corruption and commercial and organised crime.

“The answer to many concerns and problems, we believe, is an integration approach between stakeholders and organisations as well as around-the-table discussions.”

The station commander thanked community members and stakeholders who contributed to the improved crime picture but emphasised that significant work remained. Associated crimes showed mixed results, with possession of dangerous weapons down 1,5%, while selling liquor without a licence increased by 34,7%.

LOOKING AHEAD

According to Tamboer the complete financial year comparison for 2025-’26 versus 2024-’25 will be presented in April, providing a full annual picture of crime trends in the coastal town.

“The statistics suggest that collaborative efforts between police and community stakeholders are yielding positive results, though authorities stress the need for continued vigilance and cooperation to address remaining criminal challenges.”

’n Groot seder het geval

Hy was geliefd in Mount Pleasant, ’n ware heer en ’n “meester” wat menige inwoner van Hermanus deur die skoolbanke gesit het.

Leslie Valentine is op 15 Maart in die ouderdom van 86 jaar oorlede.

“Prostaatkanker is 23 jaar gelede by hom gediagnoseer, maar hy het nooit gekla nie. Nou onlangs het die dokters ook lewerkanker by hom gediagnoseer en hy is kort ná die diagnose oorlede,” vertel sy dogters.

Oom Leslie, of “Meester”, soos hy alombekend gestaan het, was ’n mensemens en al het hy die meeste van sy onderwysloopbaan in Mount Pleasant deurgebring, het hy ook by skole in die Kaap en selfs plaasskole skoolgehou. Maar dit was in Hermanus waar sy liefde gelê het – die kusdorp waar hy sy passie kon uitleef.

“My pa was ’n legend en sy familie en sy skoolgemeenskap was vir hom alles. Hy sou in die middel van die nag opstaan om ons te ondersteun. ’n Mens kon altyd op sy knoppie druk,” vertel sy dogters hartseer.

Hy was ook bekend vir sy liefde vir kuns en geskiedenis en ná sy aftrede het hy bouplanne vir baie mense van Hermanus opgestel.

Oom Leslie sal altyd by Mount Pleasant Primêr, of die “Blouhuis”, onthou word, want dié onderwyser het die skoolembleem, “Kennis Verlig”, ontwerp.

“Sy lewe was nog altyd een van omgee; om ’n verskil in iemand se lewe te maak.”

help waar hy kon. Sy jongste broer was maar tien jaar oud, maar Pa het hulle skool toe gevat en later gesorg dat hulle selfs universiteit toe kan gaan. Al vier sy susters het onderwysers geword.”

Die man wat diep spore in Hermanus getrap het, is in Houtkloof naby Napier gebore.

Die Morawiese gemeenskap waar hy grootgeword het, het ’n groot rol in sy lewe gespeel en tot op sy sterfbed het hy aan sy geloof vasgehou en volgens sy dogters het hy sy geloof uitgeleef ook.

“Ons pa was baie geestelik. Hy het sy drie broers en vier susters as gelowiges grootgemaak en ons onthou hoe hy elke aand huisgodsdiens met ons gehou het. Hy het so ’n goeie nalatenskap vir almal agtergelaat.”

Sy dogters vertel dat hul pa sy hele begrafnis op sy sterfbed beplan het. “Hy het alles in detail vir ons vertel... waar hy begrawe wil word en wat gesing moet word. Ons gaan sy staaltjies, liefde en omgee mis, maar ons gaan veral die blou Golfie mis, wat net onverwags by jou opgedaag het wanneer jy dit die nodigste gehad het...”

Leslie word oorleef deur sy vrou, vier kinders, kleinkinders, agterkleinkinders en die duisende dankbare oudleerders wat deur sy hande is.

Die begrafnis vind Sondag plaas. Besigting is om 09:30 by Sonneblomstraat, Mount Pleasant. Die diens word by Mount Pleasant Primêr gehou. Skakel 082 389 1879 vir nog inligting.

Weatherforthenextfourdays

Thurs FriSatSun

Hermanus oo oo 18151617 o o o 26192325o

Caledon oo oo 17141416 o o o 29212429o

Grabouw oo oo 16131317 o o o 26202427o

Kleinmond oo oo 18161618 o o o 24192222o

Gansbaai oo oo 18171718 o o o 23192122o

Stanford oo oo 18141517 o o o 28212327o

18o 23o 17o 23o 17o 23o 18o 22o 19o 21o 18o 22o WEEK:08 12March2026

Sy dogters vertel dat hul pa op ’n jong ouderdom vir sy vier susters en drie broers “pa” moes wees. “Ons oupa is op ’n jong ouderdom oorlede en my pa moes

Assessment underway

A comprehensive road condition assessment programme is currently underway across the Overberg District, with technical teams from SMEC South Africa conducting detailed inspections of municipal roads as part of a government-funded infrastructure management initiative. The assessments form part of the Department of Rural Development and Agrarian Reform (DoRA)-funded Rural Road Asset Management System (RRAMS) programme, designed to provide municipalities with accurate data to improve road maintenance and service delivery to local communities.

Technical personnel are walking and driving along selected municipal roads to document visible defects including potholes, surface cracking, edge deterioration, surface failures, drainage issues, and gravel road wear. Residents seeking additional information may contact Julia Kearns at Julia.Kearns@smec.com or call the Overberg District Municipality offices in Bredasdorp at 028 425 1157.

N óg dorpe kla oor sportgeriewe

Kort nadat die berig oor die Caledonsportveld verlede week in Hermanus Times verskyn het (“Callies crisis deepens”, Hermanus Times, 11 Maart) is die koerant oorval met oproepe van ander dorpe wat glo ook met onvoldoende sportgeriewe sukkel.

Die Pineview-sportveld in Grabouw het wel aandag gekry en die destydse burgemeester van die Theewaterskloof-munisipaliteit, Mary Liebenberg, het die sooispit-seremonie van die sportterrein op 7 Februarie 2024 behartig. In Februarie daardie jaar het die TWK-munisipaliteit in sy nuusbrief bevestig dat die projek van R8,5 miljoen ’n mylpaal en ’n hoogtepunt van jare se beplanning en samewerking is. Liebenberg het by die geleentheid gesê dit is ’n eer om deel van die projek te wees. “Dit is wonderlik as ons ’n projek kan sien realiseer, maar vir my is die beste deel dat ons gemeenskappe werk sal hê en mense kos op die tafel sal kan sit. Dit is ook wonderlik om te hoor dat die munisipaliteit plaaslike subkontrakteurs sal aanstel en konstruksiemateriaal plaaslik –in Grabouw – sal koop. Dit beteken dit is ’n groot belegging in Grabouw, ons mense en ons sakeondernemings,” het sy gesê. Die Theewaterskloof-munisipaliteit het bevestig die projek het oor die opgradering van die veld gegaan en die Pineview-sportterrein het nie ’n pawiljoen gehad nie. “Die projek is nie die opgradering van ’n stadion nie. Daar was nog nooit ’n stadion op daai perseel nie. Die raad het fase 1 vir die opgradering van die sportvelde goedgekeur. Die munisipale infrastruktuurtoelaag (MIG) het net meer as R7,8 miljoen oor drie jaar vir die projek bewillig. Werk aan die projek het tot 2025 geduur en tans kyk die raad na alternatiewe om die projek verder te neem,” het die munisipale bestuurder Walter Hendricks, gesê. Volgens van die klubs in die dorp kan hulle wel op die Pineview-sportterrein

oefen, maar hulle kan nie wedstryde daar speel nie. Een van die voorsitters van die klubs het bevestig dat die veld nie op peil is nie. “Ons speel egter nie wedstryde op Pineview nie, want tegnies is die veld nog nie reg nie. Nog heelwat uitstaande dinge moet gedoen word.”

Nog ’n klub wat voel sy versoeke vir die opgradering van hul sportterreine het op dowe ore geval, is Riviersonderend. Niks het van die beloftes gekom om die pawiljoen op te gradeer nie. Die pawiljoen het glad nie aan die veiligheidsvereistes voldoen nie en sou glo opgegradeer word. “Inteendeel – hulle het eerder die pawiljoen verwyder. Nou moet die mense rondom die veld staan en nie net is die veld nie op peil nie, maar die toiletgeriewe kan ook nie gebruik word nie. Maar wat ons nog erger onthuts laat, is die feit dat as ons die veld wil gebruik, moet ons die volle tarief betaal,” het een van die inwoners gesê. Hendricks het gesê die munisipaliteit erken die belangrike rol wat sport in die bou van sterk en gesonde gemeenskappe speel. “Die proses is tans in sy finale stadium vir die toekenning van ’n tender ter waarde van R1 017 888,52 vir die opknapping van die pawiljoen en kleedkamers by die Caledon-sportterein. Hierdie projek sal die herstel van die pawiljoen se dak insluit en is deel van voortgesette pogings om die stadion vir spelers en toeskouers te verbeter.” Volgens hom werk die munisipaliteit tans onder ’n finansiële herstelplan wat beperkings plaas op nuwe uitgawes en bepaal watter projekte goedgekeur kan word. “In hierdie stadium bly die fokus op die instandhouding en verbetering van bestaande geriewe binne die beskikbare finansiële hulpbronne. As deel van die verbintenis en ondersteuning sal die munisipaliteit voortgaan om met alle sportsektore te skakel en die samewerking met sportforums en -liggame te versterk om toegang tot die geriewe en infrastruktuur te bied.”

Bond Switching:

Bond switching – moving your home loan from one bank to another – is becoming increasingly popular among South African homeowners. The aim is simple: to secure a better deal on your existing bond, without selling your property.

Half a bar of Abalone seized

Gordon's Bay police arrested a man for transporting about half a million rand worth of abalone on Thursday 12 March.

According to a police report, officers received information about a suspicious vehicle driving on Clarence Drive on the R44 towards Gordon's Bay around 20:00.

Officers set up a strategic roadblock on Faure Marine Drive and pulled over a Toyota Hilux when it was spotted.

A search revealed 21 bags of abalone in the back of the bakkie. The driver, a 45-year-old man from Mitchells Plain, was also found in possession of tik.

Officials from the Department of Forestry, Fisheries and the Environment were called to evaluate the haul and confirmed a total of 2 218 units of abalone worth an estimated R500 000.

The suspect faces charges of illegal possession and transportation of abalone and possession of drugs. Police also

confiscated the bakkie. He appeared in Strand Magistrates' Court on Monday 16 March on the charges.

Bond switching can also be used to consolidate debt or access equity in your home to fund

There are several reasons why you might consider switching. Lower interest rates can translate into substantial savings over the life of your loan, while some banks offer more flexible repayment terms or lower monthly instalments. If your credit score has improved since taking out your bond, you may now qualify for better terms.

renovations, investments or other financial goals.

The process involves two legal steps: cancelling your existing bond at the deeds office and registering a new one with your chosen lender. A conveyancer or property attorney is required to manage both stages.

It is important to note that switching is not without costs.

Bond cancellation and registration fees, conveyancing charges and possible early termination penalties may apply.

Before making the move, carefully weigh up the costs against the potential long-term savings.

Consulting a financial advisor or property law expert can help you decide if bond switching is the right step for your circumstances.

Vorster & Steyn Attorneys, proudly in alliance with Strauss Daly Attorneys. For more on this topic, please see: https://www. vorsteyn.co.za/

Attacks prompt calls for dog safety

Cape Agulhas Municipality is calling on residents to secure their dogs after three reported attacks on meter readers since February, including an incident that left a municipal worker with serious injuries.

“The escalating safety concerns have prompted the municipality to issue an urgent appeal to property owners emphasising meter readers are legally authorised to enter premises to access water

and electricity meters as part of essential service delivery,” the municipal spokesperson said. “The recent spate of dog attacks has highlighted growing risks faced by municipal workers performing routine duties. The serious injury sustained by one staff member has underscored the potential severity of such incidents and the need for immediate preventive action. Municipal authorities are emphasising that meter reading is a critical function that ensures accurate

billing and service delivery to residents across the Cape Agulhas area.

“The municipality is asking residents to implement simple safety measures including properly restraining dogs before allowing staff access, ensuring clear pathways to water meters and taking steps to prevent potential attacks on municipal employees. Our meter readers are authorised to enter properties to read water and electricity meters.

“We ask all residents to please ensure

Wat kos jou troeteldier jou werklik?

Thys Louw

Wat kos dit regtig om ’n hond of kat aan te hou en te versorg?

Om ’n hond of kat in jou huis te verwelkom, bring vreugde, geselskap en onvoorwaardelike liefde. Maar saam met daardie vreugde kom verantwoordelikheid en koste. In laer-inkomste-gemeenskappe neem mense dikwels diere aan sonder om vooraf te besef wat dit regtig kos om hulle behoorlik te versorg. Die gevolg is finansiële druk en soms onnodige swaarkry vir die dier. Die eerste koste is gewoonlik die aannemingsfooi of aankoopprys.

Organisasies soos die DBV sluit inentings, ontwurming en sterilisasie in, wat in die lang termyn minder kos as om dit apart te betaal. ’n Goedkoop of gratis dier sonder basiese sorg word later duur.

Kos is ’n konstante uitgawe. ’n Medium grootte hond eet tussen 10 en 20 kg kos per maand, afhangend van die grootte en soort kos. Katte eet

minder, maar gehaltekos bly belangrik. Goedkoop kos kan later gesondheidsprobleme veroorsaak, wat veeartsrekeninge kan laat opstapel. ’n Gebalanseerde, bekostigbare handelsmerk is die slimste keuse.

Inentings en jaarlikse gesondheidsondersoeke is noodsaaklik. Hondsdolheid-inentings is in Suid-Afrika wetlik verpligtend en kombinasie-inentings beskerm teen algemene siektes. Jaarlikse ondersoeke vang probleme vroeg op, wat goedkoper is as noodbehandeling.

Sterilisasie is een van die belangrikste besluite. Dit voorkom ongewenste werpsels en verminder gesondheids- en gedragsprobleme. Sonder dit kan ’n wyfiekat of hond binne jare tot honderde nakomelinge lei, wat meer kos en hulpbronne verg. Parasietbeheer is ook noodsaaklik. Vlooie, bosluise en wurms kan ernstige siektes veroorsaak. Gereelde ontwurming en bekostigbare vlooibeheerprodukte moet deel van die begroting

wees. Tekens soos krap, gewigsverlies of lusteloosheid kan dui op ’n probleem wat vroeg behandel moet word. Onverwagte noodsituasies kan duisende rande kos. ’n Hond wat deur ’n motor raakgery word, of ’n kat wat ’n infeksie opgedoen het, benodig soms intensiewe behandeling. ’n Klein noodfonds van R50-R100 per maand kan oor tyd ’n groot verskil maak.

Behuising en toerusting kos ook geld. Honde benodig ’n veilige, weerbestande slaapplek en katte ’n sandbak en skoon sand. Halsbande, leibande en identifikasieplaatjies is noodsaaklik vir veiligheid.

Tyd is ’n ander “koste”. Honde benodig daaglikse oefening en aandag; katte vereis stimulasie en interaksie. Verwaarlosing kan gedragsprobleme veroorsaak, wat ekstra koste inhou, soos skade aan eiendom of gedragsadvies.

Wanneer al hierdie kostes – kos, inentings, sterilisasie, parasietbeheer, noodbehandeling en toerusting – saamgetel word, kan die jaarlikse

that dogs are properly secured before staff enter.”

For residents who prefer not to allow property access due to the presence of dogs the municipality has established several channels for self-reporting meter readings: Phone: 028 425 5500 or 028 425 5519, email: lieketsengm@capeagulhas. gov.zan or WhatsApp: 066 283 6304.

“Your cooperation helps keep our workers safe when delivering essential services,” the municipality said.

koste van ’n hond of kat maklik in die duisende beloop. Dit beteken nie dat laer-inkomste-gesinne nie diere kan hê nie, maar dat hulle vooraf daarvoor moet beplan.

Laekoste-klinieke en eenvoudige begrotings help om verantwoordelike keuses te maak.

’n Troeteldier is ’n langtermynverbintenis van tien tot vyftien jaar of langer. Die ware koste gaan dus oor meer as geld; dit gaan oor toewyding, beplanning en liefde. Wanneer ons bereid is om dié koste te dra, kry ons ’n lojale metgesel.

Sirkel Overberg kom weer byeen

Mitzi Buys

Die VLV Sirkel Overberg het pas sy 92ste konferensie Woensdag 11 Maart in die NG kerk Onrusrivier aangebied.

Die Sirkel Overberg bestaan uit sewe VLV-takke, naamlik Hermanus, Bredasdorp, Caledon, Gansbaai, Jongensklip, Kleinmond en Villiersdorp, en ongeveer 100 lede van dié takke het die kongres, wat deur die Hermanus-tak aangebied is, bygewoon.

Die VLV se tema vir 2026 is “krag lê in spanwerk” en die projek vir die jaar is “van tuin tot tafel”.

Albei dié temas is deur verskeie sprekers aangeroer.

Voor die verrigtinge is tee, koffie en versnaperings voorgesit. Die sirkelpresident, Elbé Fourie, het die konferensie amptelik geopen en die konstituering waargeneem. Magda Marais, die voorsitter van die Hermanus-tak, het die naamlesing gedoen asook die verwelkoming.

Ds. Coenie Calitz het met skriflesing en gebed geopen.

’n Baie vol program, wat openbare sake, die finansiële verslag, sirkelverslae, terugvoer van beoordelaars en die oorhandiging van trofeë ingesluit het, is afgewissel met musiekbydraes en interessante praatjies deur verskeie sprekers.

Rita Louw het die begeleiding vir die samesang van die “Oorwinningslied”, “Lekkersing VLV-lied” en “Heer, ons dink aan Afrika” gedoen.

VERSKEIE PROJEKTE

Hoewel die uitvoerende burgemeester van die Overstrand-munisipaliteit, Archie Klaas, ’n besige dag gehad het, het hy tyd gemaak om die konferensiegangers toe te spreek. Hy het genoem dat die OM met verskeie projekte besig is wat onder meer die opgradering van die R43 en die herlewing van Hermanus se sakekern insluit. Klaas het die Sirkel Overberg bedank dat hulle die konferensie in Hermanus aangebied het en die Hermanus-tak vir hul bydrae wat hulle in die gemeenskap lewer. Hy het ook genoem dat hy ’n sterk emosionele verbintenis met Onrus het aangesien sy ouma daar gebore is.

Die finansiële konsultant Corniël Calitz het verskeie sangitems gelewer en het die lede met sy welluidende basbariton-stem omtrent in vervoering gehad. Armand Briers van Itheta Labs, ’n organisasie wat op digitale ledegenerering en Kunsmatige Intelligensie-gedrewe oplossings fokus, het ’n interessante praatjie oor KI en die mensdom gelewer – ’n nuttige hulpmiddel of ’n versteekte risiko. Phillip Marais van Riposo-restaurant het oor spanwerk gepraat en onder meer genoem dat oop kommunikasie van uiterste belang vir goeie spanwerk is.

Die lewensafrigter en motiveringspreker Sue Leppan het gevra: Hoe praat ons met onsself? Hoe kyk ons na onsself en

hoe lyk ons binnetuin?

Carolyn Martin van Creation Wines, een van die top-tien-wynplase ter wêreld, het oor hul vernuwende leierskapmetodes gepraat en dit met ’n interessante video toegelig. Drie gelukkige gaste het geskenkbewyse vir ’n kos-en-wynparing by Creation gewen.

Die onkoloog dr. John Duminy van Hermanus het inligting verskaf oor die omvattende dienste wat hulle aan kankerpasiënte verskaf en genoem sedert hulle ’n bestralingseenheid het, hoef pasiënte – en hy – nie meer “oor die berg” te ry vir bestraling nie. Hulle het ook ’n pasiëntehuis, The Flower Box, waar pasiënte van verder omliggende dorpe teen ’n baie billike tarief kan tuisgaan terwyl hulle bestraling ontvang.

’n Eretoekenning word jaarliks aan iemand wat ’n bydrae in die Overberggemeenskap lewer, toegeken. Dr. Duminy het dit vanjaar ontvang vir die bystand wat hy aan kankerpasiënte lewer.

Die gasspreker Hetta van DeventerTerblanche het geen bekendstelling nodig nie, want almal ken haar as een van die Kokkedoor-beoordelaars. Sy word ook gereeld op radio gehoor, was ’n restauranteienaar, navorser en is ’n kenner van Suid-Afrikaanse kos en het ’n kookboek geskryf oor waar ons resepte vandaan kom. In haar insiggewende praatjie het Van Deventer-Terblanche vertel van die navor-

sing wat sy gedoen het oor die Westpalm-reseptemanuskrip van 1719 tot 1888 (die mees omvattende en volledig historiese resepteversameling in Suid-Afrikaanse geskiedenis), die “Recept Book van Mrs the Widow van Blommestein”, op 23 September 1937 deur ene “Mr V Desvages” aan die South African Public Library oorhandig.

ALLES IN NEDERLANDS

Op een manuskrip was alle resepte in Nederlands geskryf en enkele resepte met Franse of Engelse opskrifte, of anderstalige woorde tussenin.

Met die transkripsie het Van Deventer-Terblanche begin deur dit in drie handskrifpatrone in te deel, want baie letters het anders gelyk. Die letter “p” het soos “x” gelyk en die letter “h” soos “g”, om ’n paar voorbeelde te noem.

Sy het ook gepraat oor die verskillende tegnieke, bestanddele en kruie en speserye wat kokke gebruik het.

Verder het sy ook navorsing gedoen oor die betrokke families. Dit was in-

derdaad ’n projek wat baie jare geduur en oneindige geduld geverg het. Ná ’n heerlike middagete het die beoordelaars hul terugvoer gegee en is die trofeë oorhandig. Hermanus was die algehele wenner met agt trofeë, gevolg deur Caledon (vier), Gansbaai en Bredasdorp (drie elk) en Kleinmond en Villiersdorp met een trofee elk. Villiersdorp se voorsitter, Johlene Viljoen, het die takprestasietrofee in ontvangs geneem vir haar jare lange VLVbetrokkenheid. Viljoen is al 55 jaar ’n lid en het verlede jaar haar erkenningsbalkie hiervoor gekry.

Die sirkelpresident, Elbé Fourie, sê: “Vir my as sirkelpresident was dit ’n voorreg om die deelname te sien en te ervaar. Daar was ’n goeie aantal inskrywings in die Leefstyl en Kunste & Handvlyt-kompetisies. Dit was die tweede jaar wat dit ’n uiters warm dag was, maar dit het nie die gees van die lede gedemp nie. Hermanus kan tevrede wees met ’n geslaagde dag.”

Trust staff prepare to save whales

After 25 years of saving entangled whales Marine Dynamics and Dyer Island Conservation Trust strengthened their rescue capabilities last week with a specialised intensive two-day whale-disentanglement training course.

The Marine Dynamics and Dyer Island Conservation Trust has spent the last quarter-century fighting a heartbreaking battle against human-made hazards threatening these ocean giants.

Last week, the Marine Dynamics –Dyer Island Conservation Trust team completed this training, reinforcing their commitment to marine rescue operations that began 25 years ago when CEO Wilfred Chivell and his son, skipper Dickie Chivell, first witnessed the devastating impact of fishing gear on migrating whales.

The training, led by Mike Meyer from the South African Whale Disentanglement Network (SAWDN), comes in response to alarming statistics that paint a sobering picture of whale entanglements along South Africa’s coastline. Worldwide, an estimated 386 000 whales, dolphins and porpoises die annually due to entanglement in fishing gear. It is a crisis that has intensified along South African shores as recovering whale populations increasingly interact with coastal fisheries.

Research focusing on the Western Cape recorded 82 entanglement incidents involving southern right whales between 1999 and 2019, with studies showing 68% of whale entanglements are linked to the West Coast rock lobster fishery. Humpback whales account for 64% of entanglement cases, followed by southern right whales at 25%.

Wilfred Chivell, founder of Marine Dynamics and the Dyer Island Conservation Trust, speaks from hard-earned experience about the traumatic reality of whale entanglements. “I have been

involved in several of these terrible incidents over the years between Pearly Beach and Hermanus. It is truly devastating to see what we as humans do to these animals.”

BEST-PRACTICE RESCUE

TECHNIQUES

“Watching a whale struggling with ropes cutting into its body is something you never forget.”

The consequences for entangled whales are often drawn-out and agonising. Rather than dying immediately, these marine mammals may drag heavy fishing gear for months, suffer deep rope wounds, lose their ability to feed, or drown if they cannot reach the

surface to breathe. Many eventually succumb to infection, starvation, or exhaustion.

The recent training equipped seven team members – Dr Loraine Shuttleworth, Dickie Chivell, Hendrik Odendaal, Kira Matiwane, Francois Swart, Benz Nomandela and Wiehann Myburg – with internationally recognised best-practice techniques for marine animal rescue. The rigorous course emphasised the delicate balance required when assisting stressed and entangled whales while ensuring rescuer safety.

“I wanted to make sure that both new and long-standing team members re-

Off-leash dogs threaten oyster catchers

Uncontrolled dogs are disrupting critical feeding and breeding areas for endangered shorebirds at Silversands Beach in Betty’s Bay, raising concerns about wildlife protection and leash law enforcement in the popular coastal area.

A recent incident witnessed by residents highlights growing tensions between recreational activities and conservation needs, as off-leash dogs were observed chasing African Oystercatchers and various sandpiper species along the sensitive river inlet ecosystem.

The African Oystercatcher, classified as near threatened by conservation authorities, relies on undisturbed coastal areas for feeding and breeding. These

distinctive birds use beaches and rocky shores for foraging, with their breeding success heavily dependent on access to quiet, undisturbed nesting sites. Sandpipers and other small shorebirds face similar pressures, requiring uninterrupted access to tidal zones where they probe for invertebrates and small marine organisms essential for survival and successful reproduction.

Current municipal bylaws require dogs to be kept on leashes in public areas, including beaches to protect wildlife and public safety. Enforcement appears inconsistent, with many dog owners disregarding regulations designed to preserve sensitive coastal ecosystems.

“The Silversands area where the river meets the sea, represents particularly important habitat for various bird species, providing nutrient-rich feeding grounds and potential nesting sites that are increasingly rare along developed coastlines,” a conservationist stated. According to him the timing of disturbances is particularly concerning as many shorebird species are entering their breeding season, when they are most vulnerable to disruption. “Repeated disturbance can force birds to abandon feeding areas or nesting attempts, potentially impacting local population recovery.”

ceive proper training, or refresher training, so that we can continue assisting these whales in need,” Chivell stated. The Marine Dynamics – Dyer Island Conservation Trust team will continue working alongside partners including the National Sea Rescue Institute (NSRI) and the South African Whale Disentanglement Network to respond to emergency situations.

ENSURING WHALES’ SAFE PASSAGE

Peak entanglement periods correspond with whale migration patterns – humpback whales are most vulnerable during feeding aggregations from January to March, while southern right whale incidents spike between July and November during calving season. Vertical ropes from traps to surface buoys pose particular dangers, as whales swimming through these areas can become wrapped around their fins, tails or mouths.

As the organisation looks towards the future their quarter-century commitment to whale rescue represents more than emergency response; it embodies a broader mission to safeguard the magnificent marine life that calls South Africa’s coastline home. Through continued collaboration, preparedness and shared expertise, the team hopes to build on their 25-year legacy of marine conservation, ensuring that future generations of whales can navigate South African waters safely on their ancient migratory journeys. The training represents both an end and a beginning, honouring decades of rescue experience while preparing for the challenges ahead in protecting these ocean giants from the unintended consequences of human activity.

Marine Dynamics and the Dyer Island Conservation Trust operate from Gansbaai, focusing on marine research, conservation and education alongside their whale rescue operations.

One reader said that local authorities may need to increase enforcement efforts and public education.

To report incidents like this call 028 313 8996 Law Enforcement preferably with a photo and registration number of the vehicle. To report incidents where the law is not obeyed contact 028 313 8996 Law Enforcement preferably with a photo and registration number of the vehicle.

Four chickens are food critics

Herman Lategan

In Pringle Bay Jozlyn Kitching prepares beautifully plated meals not for people but for her four silkie chickens, who arrive running whenever the gourmet plates appear.

When Kitching, my Facebook friend, began posting photographs of carefully styled food for her chickens I assumed I was hallucinating.

The plates looked less like poultry feed and more like something that may appear in the pages of Bon Appétit Magazine: berries arranged just so, miniature pancakes stacked with care, retro jelly salads gleaming in layers. Only the diners were not people but chickens.

Kitching works in education, but should she ever want to change careers, she could easily pass for a professional food stylist. Her audience consists of four silkies, the ornamental chicken breed famous for its fluffy plumage and slightly bewildered expression.

“I have four silkies,” she said. “Three hens and one rooster.” They are called Russell (Crowe), Klaradyn, Fiela and Clifford, although Clifford, she said, is actually a hen.

The household also includes a cat named Pumpkin. “She’s almost 14 years old and not very active,” said Kitching, “due to her age, but mostly because she’s morbidly obese. She follows the silkies around and will happily share a bed or couch with them.”

Kitching’s affection for birds predates the chickens. “I adore birds, especially pigeons and chickens. They are incredibly intelligent, funny and sweet.” Silkies, unlike many breeds, do not require large roaming areas. Kitching’s birds free-range during the day and return indoors at night.

“They follow a very strict routine regarding bedtime,” she said. “Russell starts crowing at 04:30 sharp.”

The elaborate plating began as a small experiment. “I started by making them charcuterie boards to see which foods they would eat first. It was so entertaining watching them that it naturally progressed to gourmet-style plating for hoendertjies.”

Their diet is refined. “They get a good-quality chick starter mash from Drakensberg Feeds,” Kitching pointed out. “They also get fresh fruit, vegetables, seeds and nuts, eggs and red meat. Lots of berries.” Twice a week she adds multivitamins, probiotics and vitamin E oil. The instinct for presentation, it turns out, is not new. “I used to plate my kids’ meals like that when they were younger. It made me so happy to see the expres-

Local preschool loses premises, faces closure

Hermanus Country Kids, a local preschool, is fighting for survival after losing its premises, highlighting a growing shortage of early-childhood development (ECD) facilities that threaten the educational foundation.

The school’s plight comes as rapid population growth and semigration place unprecedented pressure on Hermanus’ already strained educational infrastructure, with parents and educators warning that the lack of accessible early learning spaces could have long-term consequences for child development in the area.

The principal and owner, Melinda Stoddart, said her school had been “navigating an increasingly difficult situation” following the sale of their current premises, despite months of engagement with the Overstrand Municipality and Provincial Government structures.

“We are facing significant challenges in securing suitable alternative premises,” Stoddart said. “This comes at a time when rapid semigration and population growth have already placed immense pressure on local preschool and primary school capacity.”

sions on their faces.”

The chickens themselves are not without personality. “Russell adores me and loves to be cuddled and carried around,” Kitching said. “He gets extremely excited in the morning and does a little dance when it’s time to get up.” He is also territorial. “He can’t stand anyone else and will draw blood if anyone else goes near him.”

Klaradyn, she said, is “dumb as a doornail but very friendly and affectionate”, while Fiela, half the size of the others, is “a real diva” who “sounds like a cicada when she gets excited.”

Silkies are delicate animals. “They’re a high-maintenance breed,” Kitching says. “Their hair constantly needs trimming, otherwise they can’t see a thing.”

When the gourmet plates appear decorum disappears. “They come running and jump up and down to get to the plate,” she said. “They can be quite loud when food is involved.”

Russell, predictably, takes charge. “He becomes a real bully around food and will grab the nearest hen’s tail feathers to display dominance.”

The time investment depends on the menu. “The mini pancakes take about 10 minutes,” she said. “The retro jelly salads take ages because each layer has to set before I can pour on the next.”

For most people the idea of gourmet food styling for chickens may seem eccentric. But in Pringle Bay it has become a small domestic theatre: a rooster named after Russell Crowe, a diva hen that sounds like a cicada and plates of food worthy of a lifestyle magazine, all served with care to four fluffy diners.

And why not? The world is heavy with grief right now; it’s the tiny things in life that are known to keep people sane and happy. Cheers to Kitching and her entourage, which make many people’s day each time they see your happy animals.

• Herman Lategan is a Cape

Early-childhood development experts emphasise that the first five years of a child’s life are crucial for brain development, with quality early education programmes shown to improve academic outcomes, social skills and long-term economic prospects.

The shortage of ECD facilities in Hermanus threatens to deprive local children of these critical developmental opportunities.

The situation at Hermanus Country Kids reflects broader infrastructure challenges facing the coastal town, where growing demand for educational services appears to be outpacing available facilities and municipal planning responses. Stoddart and concerned parents have raised questions about what they describe as “the perceived absence of meaningful municipal involvement in assisting with viable solutions.”

The school’s predicament has sparked “strong community interest,” particularly around accessibility to early childhood education and the municipality’s role in ensuring adequate educational infrastructure keeps pace with population growth.

Rather than pursuing confrontation, Hermanus Country Kids is calling for collaborative approaches to address what Stoddart characterises as challenges that “affect far more than just one school.

“This speaks to broader infrastructure and planning challenges facing Hermanus.

“Our intention is not to create conflict, but rather to raise awareness and encourage collaborative solutions that serve the best interests of local children and families.”

The school has expressed willingness to work with stakeholders to find constructive solutions, and said that the issue extends beyond individual institutional concerns to fundamental questions about educational planning and child welfare in the rapidly growing coastal community.

Hermanus Country Kids continues its search for alternative premises, the broader question remains whether local government and educational authorities can develop sustainable solutions to address the growing gap between ECD demand and supply in the region.

The outcome of this situation could set important precedents for how Hermanus manages educational infrastructure challenges as the town continues to attract new residents seeking coastal lifestyle benefits. With 70 children enrolled – including 20 Grade R pupils – the school urgently needs suitable premises in Hermanus, Sandbaai or Onrus.

During an internal municipal meeting, the request to rent the old school in Onrus for a period of one year was opposed.

For more information or to help the school, contact Stoddart on 083 641 1781.

OVERSTRAND

MUNICIPALITY/MUNISIPALITEIT/UMASIPALA

NOTICE:SUPPLYCHAINMANAGEMENT

INVITATION TO ALLPROSPECTIVEPROVIDERSOFGOODSANDSERVICES TOREGISTERASSUPPLIERSONTHE ACCREDITEDSUPPLIERS’ DATABASEOF OVERSTRANDMUNICIPALITY

IncompliancewiththeOverstrandMunicipalitySupplyChainManagement Policy, allprospectiveprovidersof goodsandservices toOverstrandMunicipality mustbe registeredontheaccreditedsuppliers’database. Formoreinformationonthelegislative requirementsandOverstrandMunicipality’sSupplyChainManagement Policyvisitour website:www.overstrand.gov.za

Registration forms,inEnglishareobtainablefromtheSupplyChainManagementunitatNo.1MagnoliaStreet,Hermanus,as well asfromGansbaai,StanfordandKleinmondAdministrationOffices.Alternatively,the application formcanbedownloadedfromour websiteat:www.overstrand.gov.za

Service/productproviders mustsubmittheir applicationsontheprescribed formandbeaccompanied by the followingdocumentation where applicable:

•Proofofcompany/closecorporation registration(CIPC)

•Thecompanyandthe owner/director(s)/member(s)/shareholder(s)/partnersproofof municipalaccount(s)notolderthan 3months

•CertifiedIDcopy(ies)ofthe owner/director(s)/member(s)/shareholder(s)/partnersofthecompany

•Avalid TaxComplianceStatus(TCS)Pin

•The owner/company’sbankconfirmationletter/iftheCreditOrderInstructiononthe formisnotstamped by thebank

•Proofof VAT registration

•CertificateofAcceptability for FoodPremises

•Proofof registrationattheConstructionIndustryDevelopmentBoard(CIDB)

•AccreditationcertificateifsellingITequipment

•AnoriginallycertifiedcopyofavalidB-BBEEstatuslevel verificationcertificate.ExemptedMicroEnterprises(EME’s)and QualifyingSmallEnterprises(QSE’s)maysubmitanoriginallycertifiedSwornAffidavitaspertheirsectorcodes

Allcurrentaccreditedsuppliersare requiredtoensurethattheyupdatetheirdetailsandsubmitavalid TaxCompliance(TCS)Pin onexpiryofthecurrentlyhoused TaxCompliance(TCS)Pininordertomaintaintheir verifiedstatusonOverstrandMunicipality’s supplierdatabase,therebyensuringtheireligibilitytoconductbusinesswiththisMunicipality.Pleasenotethatasanaccredited supplier,itis your responsibilitytoinformOverstrandMunicipality’sSupplyChainManagementunitofanychange(s)that relatesto thecompanyinformationincluding yourcompany’sbankingdetails,contactdetails,declarationofinterest,etc.

Any enquiries regarding registrationonOverstrandMunicipality’saccreditedsupplierdatabasecanbedirectedto Ms.S.Njuze, snjuze@overstrand.gov.za/0283138976

DrDGIO’Neill

MunicipalManager / MunisipaleBestuurder/UmphathiKamasipala P.O. Box/ Posbus/Ibhokisi yePosi20HERMANUS7200 NoticeNo/Kennisgewingnr/Inombolo yesaziso:51/2026

Duo stel nuwe liedjie bekend

Sy het die stadsliggies verruil vir ’n rustiger lewe in die Overstrand ...

Nianell, een van Suid-Afrika se gewildste sangers, wat die hartsnare geroer het met “Who painted the moon black” en “Shine”, woon nou in Franskraal. Verlede jaar het sy op Facebook aangekondig dat sy en Kevin halsoorkop op Franskraal verlief geraak het en glo hulle gaan hul “forever home” hier vind.

Haar woorde was skaars koud toe hulle sak en pak na Franskraal verhuis het. Nianell het al verskeie optredes in die Overstrand gehad, maar dit is haar en André Huysamen se nuwe liedjie, wat Vrydag op alle

stromingsdienste beskikbaar is, wat die verbeelding van haar aanhangers aangryp. Dié twee Suid-Afrikaanse topsangers het saam ’n roerende nuwe weergawe van “Run” deur Snow Patrol die lig laat sien.

Luister ’n mens na die liedjie, is dit die mengsel van pop- en klassiek wat jou weer en weer na “Run” sal wil laat luister. Soos een kunstenaar tereg opmerk: “Hul interpretasie vermeng klassieke met hedendaagse pop en die resultaat is ’n kragtige en diep roerende luistergenot...”

Nianell som dit so op: “André is ’n seldsame siel. Van ons eerste ontmoeting tot ons onlangse duet het sy sensitiwiteit en toewyding my verstom. Dit is ’n vreugde om

saam met iemand te werk wat my toewyding – om die wêreld te inspireer – deel. André is ingestel op mense en bring nie net ’n positiewe energie na enige projek toe nie, maar sal ’n mens ook motiveer as jy dit nodig het – hy is nie net ’n kollega nie, maar ’n ware lig rondom ons,” het Nianell oor André gesê.

Volgens André was hierdie opname en om saam met Nianell op te tree ’n droom wat waar geword het. “Ek was nog altyd ’n groot aanhanger en bewonderaar van haar. Haar stem het die vermoë om jou op ’n geestelike reis te neem. Haar liefde, kalmte en vriendelikheid maak dit ’n vreugde om saam met haar te werk... sy doen alles so moeite-

Dagboek/Diary

Stuur alle dagboekinskrywings na/ Send all diary listings to mariette. strydom@novusmedia.co.za DEADLINE/SPERTYD: Thursday/Donderdag 12:00. View a more extensive list of events at www.hermanustimes.co.za

FRIDAY 20 MARCH

SKETCH AND SIP ART AFTERNOON in support of Big Cats. 14:00 - 17:00. Pearly Beach Resort, Albatross Hall. For more information: 082 806 0743.

KOS- EN KUIERMARK, 16:00. NG kerk Kleinmond.

BOEKBEKENDSTELLING BY Hermanus-biblioteek. Einde en Begin deur Michèle Meyer. Begin 18:00. Vir nog inligting: hermanuslibrary@overstrand.

loos. Ek is so dankbaar ek kon hierdie projek saam met haar aanpak en hoop dat hierdie

André Huysamen en Nianell se liedie “Run” is nou op alle stromingsdienste beskikbaar.

liedjie ook iets vir die luisteraars beteken soos wat dit vir my beteken het,” het André gesê.

gov.za of kontak 028 313 8077.

WORSHIP NIGHT. Gansbaai Golf Club Hall, begin at 18:00. For more information 082 691 5148.

De Kelders Neighbourhood Watch ASTROLOGICAL TALK. Start at 19:00 at the Overberg-bootklub. For more information: 060 924 0484.

SATURDAY 21 MARCH

ONRUS COFFEE RUN. Starts at Plato Coffee Shop in Onrus. Starts at 05:45. For more information: 079 857 1291.

ONRUS BASAAR. NG kerk Onrus. Begin om 09:00.

HAWSTON MUSIC FESTIVAL. Starts at 19:00 at the Hawston Camping Site. Entrance is free.

BOOK LAUNCH: Lundy’s Best Walks. 10:30 at Harold Porter Book & Craft Shop in Betty’s Bay. For more

information: hpbookrsvp@gmail.com

Ouskool St. Patrick’s Party. Baardskeerdersbos. Starts at 13:00. 12 Strandveld. For more information: 082 713 9343.

FREE MUSIC CONCERT Starts at 15:00. NGK Dutch Reformed Church. Kleinmond. Stefné 08 2923 2723.

CAIMA DANCE COMPETITION REGIONALS. Marina’s Dance Education Centre. Starts at 17:00. For more information: 082 619 9776

PHILIP MOOLMAN tribute to Neil Diamond. From 18:30. Pearly Beach Hengelklub. For more information: 060 960 9817.

BONGESIWE MABANDLA live in Concert. Landskein Wine. From 20:00. Tickets: webtickets.

DAN PATLANSKY Solo Electric. 20:00 Hangklip Hotel, Pringle Bay. Tickets Quicket.

SUNDAY 22 MARCH

ONE DISTRICT, ONE CULTURE FESTIVAL. Mount Pleasant Field. From 09:00. For more information: admin@ cacnet.org.za

23 - 25 MARCH

COMMUNITY ARTS INDABA. Starts at 08:00 at the Municipal Auditorium, Hermanus. RSVP admin@cacnet. org.za

SATURDAY 28 March

BAARDSKEERDERSBOS ANNUAL ART ROUTE. For more information Sue Vingerhoets on 083 759 3094 . REGULARS

Shop for fresh organic produce, gourmet foodstuff, arts and crafts, plants and much more at the HERMANUS COUNTRY MARKET every Saturday, 09:00-14:00. It is held at the Hermanus Cricket Grounds and is child- and dog-friendly.

Buy lovely home-made goodies and enjoy a fun-filled morning at the GANSBAAI FRIDAY MORNING MARKET held every Friday from 09:00 to 12:00 in the Pretorius Hall in Main Road.

The STANFORD SATURDAY MORNING MARKET is held every Saturday from 09:00 to 12:00 on the Stanford Hotel stoep.

The ONRUS MARKIE is held on the

first Saturday of every month at the De Wet Hall in Roos Street, Onrus, from 09:00 to 12:00.

Visit the GREYTON SATURDAY MARKET every Saturday from 09:30 to 12:30 for the most delicious homemade treats, beautiful art and crafts, fresh produce and much more.

The NAPIER VILLAGE MARKET is held every Saturday, from 09:00 to 12:30, in the garden at the Napier Hotel. Treat yourself to delicious home-made food, drinks, art, plants and more.

HERMANUS DUPLICATE BRIDGE CLUB meets every Monday, Wednesday and Friday at 13:00. Enquiries: Judy Wulf on 082 775 0179.

The STIMULUS COFFEE AND CONVERSATION GROUP meets every Wednesday at 10:30 at Lizette’s restaurant. The group’s aim is to discuss serious issues with thoughtful people for fun. All are welcome. Enquiries: Trevor at base37@gmail.com or 083 441 1721.

Join the STANFORD STRIDERS every Thursday at 17:15 for 17:30 for a weekly 5km Time Trial that sets off from and ends on the corner of Shortmarket Street and Queen Victoria Street. Run or walk at your own pace and join everyone afterwards for a coffee or a drink at one of the local restaurants. Join the Stanford Striders Time Trials WhatsApp group to stay informed, https://chat.whatsapp. com/JQAlt7bPgJSHh0KJjFB7Zm HELPING YOU COPE

RIVER MOUNT HOPE CENTRE based in Fisherhaven offers 13 weekly Grief Share sessions for those struggling to come to terms with the loss of a loved one. Sessions can be done either online or in person, free of charge. Call 081 556 2700 or send an email to info@ rivermounthope.com for more information.

OVERSTRAND HOSPICE invites everyone who is dealing with bereavement to join their Bereavement Peer Support Group at 10:00 on every third Thursday of the month at the Hospice office at 10 Hope Street.

willbeheldinthe BANQUETINGHALL,CIVICCENTRE,HERMANUS on WEDNESDAY,25MARCH2026 at 10:00.

KENNISGESKIEDHIERMEE dat’n GEWONEVERGADERING vandie OVERSTRANDMUNISIPALERAAD gehousal word indie BANKETSAAL, BURGERSENTRUM,HERMANUS op WOENSDAG,25MAART2026 om 10:00. OKUKUKWAZISA ukuba INTLANGANISOYESIQHELO yeBHUNGALIKAMASIPALAWE-OVERSTRAND, izakubase eBANQUETINGHALL,KWIZIKOLOLUNTU, eHERMANUS uLWESITHATHU,Umhla we 25MATSHI2026ngeye-10:00.

MUNICIPALMANAGER/MUNISIPALEBESTUURDER/ UMPHATHIKAMASIPALA NOTICE/KENNISGEWING/ISAZISO36/2026

Biddag vir vroue in Caledon gevier

Mitzi Buys

’n Oproep tot ’n nasionale dag van gebed vir vroue in 1887 in die VSA het met verloop van tyd na ander lande versprei en dit het tot die Wêreldbiddag vir Vroue gelei.

Mevv. A. Mc Gregor en U. Cook het in 1930 Suid-Afrika se eerste Wêreldbiddag vir vroue gelei. Dié gebedsnetwerk van Christenvroue in ongeveer 160 lande vind jaarliks op die eerste Vrydag in Maart plaas. Die tema vir dié jaar se Wêreldbiddag was: “Kom, Ek sal jou rus gee.” Die skrywersland was Nigerië. Verlede Vrydag (6 Maart) het ongeveer 140 vroue en ’n paar mans van die VGK, Anglikaanse kerk, Morawiese kerk en Apostoliese kerk in die parogiesaal van die Anglikaanse kerk byeengekom om Suid-Afrika se 96ste Biddag vir vroue te vier.

Eerwaarde Patty Edwards van die Holy Trinity Anglikaanse kerk in Caledon het aan Hermanus Times genoem: “Met die tema wat vanjaar uit Nigerië kom, is genoem hoe dit daar in hul land gaan en hoe enkelvroue soms sukkel om vir hul gesin te sorg.

“Die stapelvoedsel in Nigerië is rys en daarom het ons ’n klein pakkie rys aan almal teenwoordig uitgedeel – juis om hulle daaraan te herinner dat omstandighede soms moeilik kan wees.

“Dit gaan daaroor dat ons as vroue moet weet wanneer ons deur moeilike omstandighede gaan, is die Here altyd daar om vir ons daai nodige rus te gee as ons Hom sal toelaat om dit vir ons te gee. Ons het nie nodig om alleen met iets te worstel nie – ons kan dinge na die Here bring, maar ons moet ook daar wees om mekaar te help en by te staan,” het Edwards gesê.

“Een van my uitdagings aan die groep was: Ons is nou as ’n ekumeniese groep vroue hier bymekaar – hoekom kan ons nie ’n vrouebeweging begin wat enkel-ma’s of vroue wat deur moeilike omstandighede gaan, bystaan nie – nie noodwendig finansieel nie, maar met die motivering dat wanneer ons bymekaarkom, kan ons oor die nodige dinge gesels om dié vroue emosioneel by te staan en op te help. Ons as mense moet altyd oop wees om die Here se genade te ontvang sodat wanneer ons uitgaan, ons daardie selfde genade vir iemand anders kan aanbied,” het Edwards afgesluit.

Artists, performers, come showcase at Mount Pleasant

The vibrant cultural heartbeat of the Overberg is set to pulse once again as the One District, One Culture Festival 2026 makes its eagerly anticipated return to Hermanus.

This premier Western Cape initiative will transform Mount Pleasant Sports Field into a celebration of creativity, diversity, and community spirit on 22 March from 09:00 to 19:30.

The festival stands as a testament to the rich tapestry of artistic expression that thrives throughout the Overberg. With the sole aim of bringing communities together under one cultural umbrella, this event provides an invaluable platform for local artists to showcase their talents and connect with audiences from across the region.

“The festival offers the perfect opportunity to connect, collaborate, and shine,” organisers emphasise, highlighting the collaborative spirit that defines this annual celebration.

According to Municipal Manager of the Overstrand Municipality Dr Dean O’Neill artists across all disciplines are encouraged to participate in this cultural extravaganza. “The festival welcomes: Poetry, storytelling, and spoken word performances,” he explained. “This inclusive approach ensures every form of

Disa hou sportdag vir senior burgers in Grabouw

Mitzi Buys

Age-in-Action is ’n nieregeringsorganisasie (NGO) wat hom vir die welstand van senior burgers beywer. Hulle verteenwoordig meer as 2,7 miljoen ouer mense en meer as 800 NGO’s is lede van die organisasie, wat op hul beurt weer dienste aan meer as 150 000 ouer mense lewer. Age-in-Action inisieer en bevorder programme wat die status en sekuriteit van ouer mense verseker, wat ook kwesbare ouer mense insluit.

Gereelde oefening is belangrik vir senior burgers en as dit as ’n sportdag vol pret aangebied word, des te beter.

Age-in-Action het Donderdag 5 Maart ’n sportdag in Grabouw aangebied waaraan verskeie diensorganisasies vir senior burgers deelgeneem het.

Die Disa-dienssentrum van Myddleton het ook aan die sportdag deelgeneem.

Die voorsitter, Yvonne Geduld, sê: “Ons lede het aan verskeie items soos bal-oor-die-kop, kussing-tussen-die-bene, eier-en-lepel en ook die 100 m deelgeneem. In die 100 m het Jane Oliver almal kafgedraf en tweede plekke in die ander items behaal. Die lede het dit terdeë geniet, maar met die terugry huis toe was almal tjoepstil in die voertuig – hulle was te moeg om nog te praat!”

WhoIsResponsibleforPreventing UnderageGambling?

Preventingunderagegamblingisasharedresponsibility.

creative expression finds its place in the festival’s diverse programme.”

Overstrand artists are urged not to miss this opportunity to be part of something truly special. Whether you’re a solo performer, part of a choir or represent a community arts organisation registration remains open for all interested participants. “Don’t be shy! Gather your choir, performers or creative crew and register immediately to be part of this vibrant event,” festival organisers encourage.

Community support essential

While the festival provides a stage for artists, organisers emphasise that spectator support is crucial to its success. The energy and enthusiasm of the audience help performers deliver their best work and create the electric atmosphere that makes the festival truly memorable. The best news for families and culture enthusiasts? Entry is completely free for all spectators, making this world-class cultural event accessible to everyone in the community.

Artists interested in participating or community members seeking more information can send an email to admin@ cacnet.org.za or visit the Overstrand Municipality Socio-Economic Services Department or contact 028 313 5020.

Licensedgamblingoperatorsmustverifytheageoftheircustomersand preventanyoneundertheageof18yearsfromparticipatingin gamblingactivities.However,parents,educatorsandcommunitiesalso playanimportantroleinguidingyoungpeopleandhelpingthem understandtherisksassociatedwithgambling.

Talktoyoungpeopleabouttherisksofgambling.Beawareofwhatthey aredoingonlineandhelpthemmakeresponsiblechoices.Parentsand guardiansshouldalsoensurethatchildrendonothaveaccesstotheir gamblingaccounts , devicesusedfo r gamblin g or per sonal identificationnumbers(PINs)thatmayallowthemtoplacebets.

Earlyconversationscanhelpyoungpeopleunderstandwhyage restrictionsexistandwhytheymatter.

Childrenlearnfromtheadultsaroundthem.Whenadultsdemonstrate responsibleattitudestowardsgambling,moneyandrisk,itsetsa positiveexampleforyoungpeopleandhelpsthemdevelophealthy decision-makingskills.

Protectingyoungpeoplefromunderagegamblingstartswithallof us.

Thismessageisbroughttoyoubythe WesternCapeGamblingand

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Geen rugby-verrassings

Die afgelope naweek se Grootuitdaag-rugbywedstryde het geen verrassings opgelewer nie, maar almal is dit eens ná Saterdag se wedstryd hoort Atlantics in die Grootuitdaag-liga.

Die span van Hermanus het Saterdag by die Mount Pleasant-sportterrein gewys waarom hy verlede jaar onoorwonne was in die Streekuitdaag-reeks en het die Bredasdorp Rangers 41-30 geklop. Met Atlantics se giftige agterlyn en goeie balhantering is die drieë ingeryg en dié span gaan nog bekende klubs soos Safcol en Hawston die skrik op die lyf jaag.

Caledon, wat Saterdag sy eerste wedstryd gespeel het, het nie ’n wegholoorwinning oor Genadendal behaal nie, maar 21-17 gewen. Genadendal het met durf gespeel en die Canola Boys moes hard werk om

die wedstryd te wen. Caledon sal aan sy dissipline en balvaardigheid moet werk om teen die topspanne te wen. Almal het aan die begin van die seisoen gewonder wat die Grabouw-rugbyklub in die mou voer. Met ’n nuwe afrigter, Herchelle van Aswegen, en nuwe spelers het ondersteuners meer van die span verwag. Saterdag se wedstryd teen Botrivier was weer eens ’n teleurstelling vir Grabouw. Grabouw, wat nou twee naweke ná mekaar die onderspit gedelf het, moet ná sy nederlaag van 48-17 gaan selfondersoek instel en bepaal wat hy moet doen om uit die penarie te kom. Botla Fire het van die begin van die wedstryd gewys waarom hy die verdedigende Overberg-kampioen is.

Die span het nie net voorlangs heeltemal oorheers nie, maar met goeie balvaardigheid en agterlynbewegings die een drie ná die ander aangeteken. Die pas en geesdrif waarmee die span van Botrivier gespeel het, was net een te veel vir die span van Grabouw en Grabouw kon letterlik nie byhou nie. Van Aswegen sal moet hard werk aan sy manne se fiksheid en ook met nuwe planne vorendag kom as Grabouw sy merk in die liga wil maak. Dit was ook nie ’n verrassing toe Hawston se Skrik vir Niks die span van Villiersdorp oortuigend 32-15 geklop het nie. Hawston, die Overberg Challenge-wenners, is ná twee jaar se “droogte” terug en gaan sy ondersteuners nie teleurstel nie. Die

voorspelers, wat met dryfmaal-bewegings nie net telkemale oor die voordeellyn beweeg het nie, maar ook ’n goeie grondslag vir sy agterspelers gelê het, het na punte gelei. Die kaptein van Skrik vir Niks, Branden Hunter, kan trots wees op sy manne se dissipline en samespel.

Stanford Universals het Kleinmond maklik 48-21 verslaan en Safcol het die Sea Hawks van Arniston 47-22 geklop. Safcol was voorlangs te sterk vir die Sea Hawks, het elke moontlike geleentheid benut en dit in punte omgeskakel. Sea Hawks, wat nie by die tempo van Safcol kon byhou nie, sal moet hard werk om nog nederlae te vermy.

• Saterdag se wedstryde is soos volg: Atlantics teen Grabouw, Safcol teen Villiersdorp, Hawston teen Genadendal, Caledon teen Kleinmond, Stanford teen Bredasdorp en Botrivier teen Sea Hawks.