As the holiday season approaches the Rotary Club of Stanford has launched its “Hampers of Love 2025” campaign, seeking community support to bring Christmas cheer to families facing dire circumstances in the area. The initiative aims to provide substantial food hampers to approximately 320 desperately poor Stanford families who find themselves particularly vulnerable during the year-end period when local soup-kitchen volunteers take their well-deserved break.
“Please help us bring some cheer to those in dire need this holiday season,” Rotary president Sybille Essmann said, highlighting the critical timing of its campaign. The initiative specifically addresses the food-security
gap that emerges when regular community-feeding programmes pause for the holidays, leaving the town’s most vulnerable residents without their usual support network.
Each hamper, valued at R300, will contain basic food items along with a few special treats. The carefully curated packages are designed to provide both nutritional essentials and a touch of holiday joy during what can be the most challenging time of year for struggling families.
The Rotary Club has established two convenient donation methods to maximize community participation.
Electronic donations can be made via direct EFT to:
Account Name: The Rotary Club of Stanford. Bank: FNB Hermanus. Branch Code: 250655.
Account Number: 623 559 796 95.
Reference: Donor surname and “Hampers”. Cash donations can be deposited at the local tourism office in clearly marked envelopes containing donor contact details.
As a registered public-benefit organisation (PBO), the Rotary Club can issue tax certificates for all donations, providing additional incentive for community members and businesses to contribute. The organisation emphasises its well-organised approach to distribution, ensuring hampers reach families with genuine need. The distribution date, 17 December, has been strategically chosen to maximise impact in the critical pre-Christmas period.
The Rotary Club of Stanford operates under the international Rotary motto “Service above Self” and meets on alternate Tuesdays
at 11:30 at The Nest on Queen Victoria Street. For more information about the campaign or donation process, community members can contact: Sybille Essmann (082 601 0180), Sandy Pillans (083 534 3020) or Lana Coates (082 216 4398).
With less than a month remaining before distribution day, the Rotary Club emphasises that every donation will make a meaningful difference.
"Your kindness and generosity will be greatly appreciated and go a long way in helping" these families experience Christmas dignity, Essmann states.
The Hampers of Love campaign represents the spirit of community solidarity that defines Stanford during the holiday season, transforming individual acts of generosity into collective impact for those who need it most.
The Rotary Club of Stanford invites the community to support its “Hampers of Love 2025” campaign.
Cape Agulhas tackles drugabuse issues
The devastating impact of substance abuse on families and communities took centre stage during recent Mental Health Awareness events in the Cape Agulhas area, where residents shared deeply personal stories about watching loved ones struggle with drug-induced mental-health challenges.
“It’s so sad to watch a family member or your children acting crazy and using tik, but you know they weren’t born that way, it’s the tik and other drugs they are using,” said Grace Melani, who attended the events hosted by the Otto Du Plessis sub-district mental health team during Mental Health Month in October.
Her heartfelt words captured the emotional toll that substance abuse takes on families across the region, highlighting why local health officials organised these crucial awareness sessions.
The mental health team held events at Napier Clinic on 17 October and Struisbaai Clinic on 24 October, specifically targeting areas where clinics have seen an increase in substance-related mental health presentations. Nkateko Nghomani, a registered counsellor in the sub-district, explained the rationale behind the initiative: “Substance abuse affects more than just the individual, it impacts mental and physical health, relationships and livelihoods. Through these sessions we aim to educate and connect people to the services available, both locally and beyond.” Nghomani noted that the chosen locations were strategic, as several mental health clients in these areas suffer from “induced psychosis, hallucinations, depression and anxiety, which is the result of abusing substances.”
The events brought key stakeholders committed to addressing the crisis together, including the South African Police Service, Department of Social Development, Elpida Foundation and Cape Agulhas Child Welfare. The partners shared information about available services and provided guidance to individuals and families seeking help. The community-focused approach extended beyond the clinic-based events.
The success of these events demonstrates the power of community collaboration in addressing complex social challenges, with health officials, law enforcement, social services and community organisations working together to support vulnerable residents and their families.
Dedicated to palliative care in the Overstrand
“At Overstrand Hospice our mission has always been simple yet profound,” John Ross-Smith, chair of Overstrand Hospice, said. “Since our inception 19 years ago we have been committed to providing compassionate, professional palliative end of life care to patients and their families.”
The Hospice is a unique medical facility, he added. “Our services are totally free of charge to all who need them, regardless of background or financial situation. Our care is not only for the patients, but also their families who often need emotional support and bereavement counselling.” But the service depends on continuous goodwill and local support.
Ross-Smith said Hospice has never received any government support and is self-sustaining. “Our Hospice Shop is... a vital source of income, the proceeds of which contribute more than half our annual budget.” Many families could testify to the love and care of the nursing team through sad and emotional times. Said Ross-Smith: “It is support through donations, sales items for our shop and volunteering that keeps us going!”
Lukhanyo Primary scholarpatrol learners honoured
Ayatolah September
Young heroes stepped into the spotlight this week as a group of dedicated primary school pupils received recognition for their outstanding commitment to keeping their community safe.
On Wednesday 5 November learners from Lukhanyo Primary School in Zwelihle, Hermanus were celebrated for their commitment to keeping their school community safe. The learners, who serve as members of the scholar patrol, were awarded certificates of appreciation and gift packs in recognition of their dedication, discipline, and teamwork throughout the year.
The scholar patrol plays a vital role in ensuring the safety of learners crossing busy roads near the school, helping to promote responsible road behaviour
among both pedestrians and motorists. Their dedication not only enhances safety but also instils leadership and accountability in young people from an early age. Noluthando Kedama, Overstrand municipal traffic officer, commended the learners for their outstanding efforts. “You are setting an example for your peers and showing that road safety starts with everyone of us.”
The celebration was filled with smiles and pride as the learners received their certificates and packs. Teachers also expressed appreciation for the continued partnership between the school and Mobility Department in promoting road safety education. This initiative forms part of the department’s ongoing commitment to road safety awareness, ensuring that the message of safety is carried forward by the next generation.
Share the Season reik uit – met pap
Mitzi Buys
Share the Season het in September 2023 as ’n klein gemeenskapgebaseerde projek ontstaan wat deur middel van skenkings pap aan verskeie kerke en welsynorganisasies voorsien met die doel om te help om honger en kwesbare mense en kinders in die Caledon omgewing te voed.
Van die doelwitte van die projek is die volgehoue verbetering van die betrokkenheid van kerke en organisasies vir gemeenskapsontwikkeling en goeie werkverhoudinge, asook die volhoubaarheid van die projek wat op goeie waardes en ’n reputasie van vertroue gebou word. Nie net word in mense se fisieke behoeftes voorsien nie, maar deur die verkondiging van die Woord word hulle geestelik gevoed en versterk en word hoop aan hulle gegee.
Die projek is op 21 Desember 2023
Koekverkoping vir dansers gehou
Mitzi Buys
Aangesien ’n koekverkoping altyd ’n goeie idee is vir geldinsameling het die mammas van ses jong Made2Move-dansers wat van 5-8 November aan die Dance Star-kompetisie deelgeneem het, ’n koekverkoping met ’n verskil aangebied.
Dié besondere koekverkoping, wat in Die Dam, ’n nuwe venue van die Caledon Grace-gastehuis, gehou is, was werklik iets uit die boonste rakke. Caledon se beste
bakkers het uitgehaal en gewys hoe ’n koekverkoping moet lyk. Gebak om van te kies en te keur was beskikbaar – van die allermooiste kolwyntjies versier met rose, heerlike groot koeke tot sjokoladebruintjies versier met eetbare goud. Gaste kon ’n boksie koop en afhangende van die prys dit met gebak van hul keuse vul. Pragtige bosse proteas was te koop en buite was verskeie stalletjies, waarvan drie van die dansers self was, asook ’n koffie-stalletjie, en die kinders kon heerlik op ’n
springkasteel baljaar.
Schunette Beukes sê: “Al die koeke was geborg. Ons het ma’s, vriendinne en familie gevra om koeke te bak. Hierdie was 100% ’n gemeenskapsprojek.”
Al die gebak is verkoop. Die ses jong dansers van Caledon – Lika de Villiers, Ninke du Toit, Migha van Tonder, Machnus Beukes, Miané Meyer en Leah Groenewald – gaan van 12 tot 17 Mei 2026 aan die Dance Star World Dance Masters in Kroasië deelneem.
amptelik begin met die uitdeel van 3 000 pakkies kits-mieliepap (“Pap wat nie gekook word, help só”, Hermanus Times 31 Januarie 2024).
Sedert die begin van die projek is by nog ses geleenthede mieliemeel aan die onderskeie organisasies oorhandig:
• Op 28 Februarie 2024: 90x500g en 500x25g kitspap is aan 15 organisasies oorhandig en 2 300 mense is hierdeur gevoed.
• Op 9 September 2024 is 350kg mieliemeel aan vyf organisasies oorhandig; 2 100 mense is hierdeur gevoed.
• Op 5 Desember 2024 is 666,5kg mieliemeel oorhandig, wat 266 000 porsies voorsien het.
• Op 20 Februarie 2025 is ’n skenking van 500kg mieliemeel ontvang en uitgedeel.
• Op 5 Junie is 510kg mieliemeel aan 13 begunstigde organisasies uitgedeel.
• Op 14 Oktober 2025 is 250kg mieliemeel aan 12 organisasies oorhandig. Sedert die ontstaan van die projek het ongeveer 15 000 mense hulp ontvang.
Lede van verskeie organisasies wat onlangs mieliemeel ontvang het saam met van die organiseerders van die Share the Season-projek.
Lorrain de Villiers, Anine du Toit, Eleza van Tonder, Lanique Beukes, Michelle Meyer en Anneen Groenewald by van die gebak en proteas wat by die geldinsamelingsgeleentheid ten bate van die Made2Move-dansers te koop was. Foto: Mitzi Buys
Learners from Lukhanyo Primary School in Zwelihle, Hermanus were celebrated for their commitment to keeping their school community safe.
Artists and art lovers can once again look forward to a weekend of fabulous art at the ninth Greyton Art Walk (GAW), which will be held from 28 to 30 November.
The popular GAW has grown from year to year with an average of 50 artists exhibiting their work, which will also be for sale. For art lovers this is the perfect opportunity to catch up with their favourite artists and discover the works of other interesting artists as well as buy a few treasures.
The main exhibition and information centre will be in the Dutch Reformed church hall, with many smaller exhibitions in the numerous art galleries, restaurants and artists’ homes. All venues displaying art during the weekend will be clearly marked with yellow flags displaying the GAW’s footprint logo.
The Anglican church hall will showcase a wonderful array of children’s art from young artists of the valley from Bereaville, Genadendal, Heuwelkroon and
Dagboek/Diary
Stuur alle dagboekinskrywings na/Send all diary listings to bianca.duplessis@ novusmedia.co.za
DEADLINE/SPERTYD: Thursday/Donderdag 12:00
View a more extensive list of events at www.hermanustimes.co.za
THURSDAY 20 NOVEMBER
The Ephemeral Nature of ThingsTalk by Laurette de Jager. Starts at 17:30 at The Greenhouse, Vermont.
Read with Friends - Silent Book Club. From 18:00 to 20:00 in Pringle Bay. For more information contact Julia Griss on 082 904 8224.
FRIDAY 21 NOVEMBER
Wil jy dans, Carina? ’n Musiekstorie by die NG kerksaal, Kleinmond. Begin om 16:00. Navrae: Thinus 083 456 5716.
Luna Paige - ’n Knapsak vol Songs vind van 17:30-21:00 by Perron 25 in Kleinmond plaas. Kaartjies by Quicket.
Musical Book Launch: How to Build a House In The Mountains. Oulap Hall in Stanford. For more information: 067 1889 439.
SATURDAY 22 NOVEMBER
Coastal Foraging Adventure at Edible Shores in Pringle Bay. More information and bookings: Carmen Burls 083 308 7619, bookings@edibleshores.co.za.
Fitness & Wellness Festival from 08:00-12:00 at the Thusong Centre in Hawston. For more information and bookings contact Tameshia: 079 600 0875.
Fabric Painted Flowers Workshop at Afdak Nursery. From 09:30-12:30. For
Music line-up for ’26
Classical music enthusiasts can look forward to worldclass performances featuring international and local artists across diverse musical genres.
Greyton. This year’s theme, “Things with wings”, will feature a portrait gallery as well as other art and sculpture. The exhibition is a celebration of children’s creativity with no competition; everyone is a winner. Access to all venues will be free of charge.
Apart from the wonderful art, visitors also have a choice of many restaurants and coffee shops, interesting shops to browse in as well as exploring the vibrant Saturday morning market.
For additional information visit www.greytonartwalk.co.za
more information: Ursula, 083 544 4076.
Big Clean-Up from 10:00-11:00. Meet at the Franskraal parking area. Bring your own black bag. For more information: 082 332 9386.
Visit Danger Point Lighthouse in Gansbaai. Climb to the top 0-10 yrs free, 11-17 yrs R10 & 18+ R20. Refreshments for sale. For more information and bookings: 072 291 5564.
A Tribute to Dolly Parton & Kenny Rogers at Benguela Cove. Starts at 17:00. Tickets available via Quicket.
SUNDAY 23 NOVEMBER
Visit Danger Point Lighthouse in Gansbaai. Climb to the top 0-10 yrs free, 11-17 yrs R10 & 18+ R20. Refreshments for sale. For more information contact 072 291 5564.
Lyra - A Symphony of Celestial Music at the NG church Onrus. Starts at 15:00. For more information and bookings: 081 364 0839.
MONDAY 25 NOVEMBER
Hermanus Business Chamber 2025 Awards Gala Dinner. From 18:00 at the Hermanus Golf Club. For bookings contact 071 673 5637 or send email to info@ hermanuschamber.com.
TUESDAY 26 NOVEMBER
Understanding Neurodivergence with Tracey Fletcher. From 18:00-20:00 in Stanford. For more information call 067 188 9439.
Gian Groen Live at SkyBar. Starts at 19:00. For bookings: tickets.tixsa.co.za
WEDNESDAY 26 NOVEMBER
’n Eenvrouvertoning deur Desiré Gardner in die NG kerksaal in Kleinmond. Begin om 19:00. Vir nog inligting en besprekings kontak Thinus: 083 456 5716.
The Hermanus Music Society has announced an exciting line-up of seven concerts for 2026, promising music lovers in the Overberg a year filled with exceptional classical performances ranging from intimate chamber music to solo virtuoso showcases.
The carefully curated series will kick off on 30 January with a compelling clarinet and piano duo featuring Féroll-Jon Davids on clarinet accompanied by pianist Nina Schumann, setting the tone for what promises to be an outstanding musical year.
February will bring international recognition to the Hermanus stage with renowned pianist Ida Pellicioli taking centre stage on 27 February. The Italian-born virtuoso will showcase her acclaimed repertoire in what is expected to be a season highlight.
March continues the momentum with the innovative Novo Duo on 27 March, featuring the unique combination of Josie McClure on saxophone and Seung-Ree Lee on piano. This contemporary pairing promises
Roos on violin joined by pianist José Dias, offering audiences the timeless beauty of this beloved chamber music pairing. While the final two concerts scheduled for 30 October and 27 November remain under wraps, the Music Society has promised to announce these performances in due course, building anticipation for what are expected to be equally impressive additions to the series.
to bring fresh energy and modern interpretations to the classical music scene. The series demonstrates remarkable diversity in its instrumental offerings.
May 29 will feature the distinctive sounds of Likhona Tokola, who will perform on both tuba and euphonium, bringing these often-underrepresented brass instruments into the spotlight. The late winter concert on 28 August will present a classic violin and piano combination with Johanna
Watershed by train
One of South Africa’s most beloved acoustic rock bands is heading to the heart of the Overberg region next month when Watershed takes the stage at Elgin Railway Market on 5 December for what promises to be an intimate and memorable evening of music.
The performance, scheduled from 18:00, forms part of the band’s special 25th anniversary tour, celebrating more than two decades of platinum and gold albums that have made them household names across South Africa. The choice of Elgin Railway Market as a venue couldn't be more fitting for a band celebrating their musical heritage. The unique market, housed in a beautifully renovated 1940s apple warehouse in Grabouw, combines Steampunk and Art Deco aesthetics with local food vendors, craft stalls and wine offerings .
The December performance comes during a particularly
significant period for the band, with their 25th anniversary tour highlighting career-spanning hits alongside material from their latest studio album, Elephant In The Room (2021).
The tour will continue with performances at premium venues across the country. Watershed’s enduring appeal lies in their ability to craft emotionally resonant songs that speak to South African experiences while maintaining broad musical accessibility.
From their early hits to recent singles like “Magical Energy”, the band has consistently delivered music that connects with audiences across generational lines. Hence, the evening promises to showcase why Watershed remains one of South Africa's most enduring and beloved musical acts, delivering the acoustic rock excellence that has defined their quarter-century career.
Tickets are available from
The Hermanus Music Society has long served as a cultural cornerstone in the Overberg region, consistently attracting both seasoned classical music enthusiasts and newcomers to the genre. The 2026 series continues this tradition while expanding the musical horizons with its blend of traditional and contemporary programming. The society’s commitment to featuring both international artists and accomplished local performers reflects its dedication to bringing worldclass music to the Western Cape while supporting the development of South African musical talent. With five concerts already confirmed featuring a remarkable range of instruments and musical styles, the 2026 series promises to offer something for every musical taste.
Quicket. For the concert only: R280 per person (available on Quicket).
Optional Train Experience: R1099 per person (this ticket option is available on ceresrail.co.za and INCLUDES the concert ticket). A vintage train that will leave CPT at 14:00 and travel to Elgin Railway Market for the concert and leave for Cape Town after the show.
The Hermanus Music Society’s carefully curated series will kick off on 30 January with a compelling clarinet and piano duo featuring Féroll-Jon Davids on clarinet accompanied by pianist Nina Schumann.
Watershed will be at the Elgin Railway Market on 5 December.
Artists and art lovers can once again look forward to the 9th Greyton Art Walk, which will be held from 28-30 November. Work by various artists will be for sale.
THE HOSPICE SHOP HERMANUS will be very grateful for any untwanted clothing, linen, bric-a-brac, furniture, sporting goods or books. Please phone to arrange collections: 028 313 1884/Shop Manager 076 509 3915.
A REMOVAL OF dangerous trees, tree trimming, plot clearance, garden maintenance, garden refuse, refuse removal, firewood. Free quotations & free delivery of firewood. Call Wilson 074 824 2195.
HEMANUS HIRING We hire out tables, chairs, glasses, crockery, cutlery and linen for functions. Please contact Vivienne 066 590 9246 /Ken 082 420 0060. Email: vandkvanschoor @hermanus.co.za.
CARER Qualified and experienced. Speaks English fluently. Possesses a valid driver's license. Looking for a night-time caring position in Hermanus. Immediately available. Contact Sebia 073 6023 362 or Jeanne 084 2077 843
OVERBERG PEST CONTROL cc Fumigation Specialists Including *Beetle COC's and Timber treatments *Domestic/ Commercial/Agricultural/ Pest Control
CASH FOR MODERN ADULT & CHILDREN'S clothes, shoes, linen & kitchenware. I also buy in Somerset West, Durbanville & Cape Town once a month. Contact Carol 082 890 5749.
Registered with Dep Agriculture and SAPCA Phone: 082 563 9514/ 028 316 3100
Email:opc@mweb.co.za Overberg Pest Control Webpage: info@over bergpestcontrol.co.za
BUY ALL CARS FOR CASH! Call: 084 844 0000
HENNIES ELECTRICAL Repairs on all home appliances! Washing machines, dryers, ovens, fridges, dishwashers. All models, Defy, Bosch, Speed Queen, Samsung, Whirlpool, Smeg and many more! Call us on 084 780 4342
A BEAUTIFUL GARDEN Lawn mowing, tree felling, plot clearing and refuse removal. Gutter clearing, shaping of palm trees, hedge trimming and small removals. Contact Morné from Garden king 083 225 3712.
MY NAME IS Agness. I am a domestic worker, looking for a job. Available Monday to Sunday. I am a trustworthy and reliable person. Also a carer. I have contactable references. Please call or WhatsApp me on 073 834 5325.
MY NAME IS Bridget Beard from Malawi, looking for a job Monday to Friday as a domestic worker or laundry. 4 years' experience. Stay in or out. For more information, please contact me on 069 881 6803
I AM Chisomo (Grace ) a dedicated and compassionate individual from Malawi seeking a permanent or part-time position as a caregiver, I have a first aid certificate. Also willing to work as a housekeeper or childcare, providing a gentle touch and caring heart I excel in supporting the elderly, children and maintaining a tidy and organized home. Available on Monday, Wednesday, Thursday, Friday and Saturday. For reference call Francois Morkel on ?082 500 7593 or? Doret Snyman on ?072 904 1766 or ?Antoinette on ?081 295 3855. Please contact me on 084 653 6052.
I AM Eluby from Malawi. I am looking for a full-time job as a domestic worker or baby carer. I am ready to start working immediately. Please call/WhatsApp me on 070 361 8811 or 075 001 4020.
GOOD DAY. I am Esnart a 32-year-old Malawian lady looking for a job as a housekeeper, domestic worker or babysitter /nanny from Monday to Friday. I am hardworking, faithful and ready to start working immediately. Please call or WhatsApp me on 081 732 0931. For reference call Elaine Bayer on 082 954 6113.
I AM EUNICE a lady looking for work as a domestic for Wednesday (every fortnight) and Thursday (full-time). Reference and valid work permit available. Please call me on 073 456 7561 or call & WhatsApp on 081 750 5821.
I AM A Malawian man looking for a job as a gardener or housekeeper. I have 5 years' experience. Good references available on request. Please give me a call or WhatsApp me on 075 203 1521/ 070 361 8811. I am available every day of the week.
I AM Jessica from Malawi. I am looking for part-time work for 3 days a week as a housekeeper, cleaning laundry, ironing or looking after children.I love pets and I am very friendly. Ready to start working immediately. 4 years experience. Reference available on request. Please call or WhatsApp me 067 230 6191 or call my husband on 081 593 1860.
JOB SEEKER –HERMANUS Experienced Vineyard Foreman General Supervisor Wildlife & Security Operator Gardener. Skilled in vineyard operations, pruning, harvesting, team leadership, anti-poaching & wildlife protection, safety procedures, lawnmowing, basic weedeater use, and painting. Hard-working, honest, disciplined, and willing to learn housekeeping. Available immediately. Stanley 075 450 9784 Email: phiristanley116 @gmail.com
I AM A Malawian lady age 32 looking for a job as a house cleaner or babysitter. I am a hard worker, honest and a fast learner. I have 7 years experience with references. Please call me on 069 834 8008.
MALAWIAN LADY looking for part-time job for 3 days per week as a housekeeper, cleaning, laundry, ironing or looking after children. I love pets and I am very friendly. Ready to start working immediately. 5 years' experience. Reference available on request. Please call me on 064 373 4625
MY NAME IS Natasha Zridzai a 21-year-old lady looking for a job as a housekeeper or babysitting. I am a hardworking lady who needs minimal supervision. I am eager to explore new horizons without hesitation. I am always punctual, well behaved and flexible for working hours. Willing to go the extra mile. I am self-motivated and speak fluent English. Please call or WhatsApp 078 748 1009/061 608 9857.
I AM Rabeca Malawian lady looking for a job as ahouse keeper I can do ironing bad tyiding and all house shores I'm available 4 days if interested WhatsApp or call me on 075 213 9904 or 060 158 6058 references available.
I AM A Zimbabwean lady age 37 lookin gfor a job as a domestic worker or houskeeper. I have 3 years working experience. Ready to start working immediately. Reference available on request. Please call or WhatsApp me on 075 448 7795.
IntheEstateoftheLate THEUNISLODEWYK HAVENGA,Identitynumber:4612125046084 of 1MountainDrive,HermanuswhodiedatHermanus on24August2025,marriedincommunityofproperty to ElizabethHelenaHavengaIdentitynumber: 5103130036087.
Net een span was Saterdag op die veld, en dit is die span van die Atlantics-rugbyklub in Mount Pleasant. Tydens dié halfeindstryd in Wellington het Atlantics gewys dat hy volgende jaar nie ligtelik opgeneem kan word nie. Die span het sy onoorwonne status voortgesit en maklik 69-26 teen die span van die Koue Bokkeveld – Lovedale – gewen.
Van die begin van die wedstryd het Atlantics die oorhand gekry en met dissipline die een na die ander drie ingeryg. Die spanpoging en die vasberadenheid waarmee die span vorendag gekom het, het daartoe gelei dat hulle die wedstryd in hul guns kon swaai. Hermanus Times het met die hoofafrigter, Colin Sauls, oor sy merkwaardige jaar gepraat:
Vertel ons van jul jaar tot dusver? “Atlantics-rugbyklub staan tans onoortref en onoorwonne – ’n kragtige bewys van ons spelers se harde werk, opoffering, vasberadenheid en onwrikbare fokus. Ons speel nie net vir ’n ligatitel nie; ons streef daarna om die naam Top-16-kampioen van die Boland-rugbyunie met trots te dra. Ons gee alle eer aan God, wat ons elke tree lei, beskerm en versterk. Sonder Sy genade
Deur na die eindstryd!
sou hierdie reis nie moontlik wees nie.”
Hoe voel julle om in die eindstryd te wees? “Dis ’n ongelooflike voorreg – ’n mengsel van dankbaarheid, trots en nederigheid. Die eindstryd is die vrug van maande se harde werk en bestendigheid. Die spelers besef wat hulle bereik het, maar bly gefokus, kalm en nederig.”
Wie wil julle graag bedank? “Eerstens bedank ons God vir Sy leiding. Ons eer ons gemeenskap, ons ondersteuners, seniors, afrigtingstaf, klubbestuur en veral ons families wat saam met ons opoffer. ’n Spesiale woord van dank aan al ons borge vir hul bydraes – groot of klein. En natuurlik, ons spelers, vir hul hart, dissipline, karakter en toewyding.”
Wat is jul plan vir Saterdag se eindstryd teen Koringberg? “Ons plan is eenvoudig: Doen die eenvoudige dinge reg. Speel vir mekaar. Bly gedissiplineerd. Bly kalm. Plaas God eerste. Ons benader die eindstryd soos elke ander wedstryd – met fokus op tegniek, struktuur, taktiese intelligensie en ’n hoë werktempo. Ons speel ons spel op ons manier – die manier wat ons deur die seisoen sukses gebring het.”
Wat is jul geheime resep?
“Dis geen ingewikkelde for-
mule nie – broederskap, geloof, werksetiek... ’n badge wat ons met trots dra. Ons spelers offer vir mekaar op en speel met hart – dit is ons ware krag. Die voorbereiding vir die eindronde is professioneel, doelgerig en gevul met positiewe energie en geloof. Hier speel die manne vir mekaar, vir die badge en vir die gemeenskap wat agter ons staan. Dankie aan die hele Hermanus-gemeenskap en plaaslike ondernemings vir jul voortdurende gebede, motivering en ondersteuning. Ons waardeer dit opreg by die Atlanticsrugbyklub.”
• Nog ’n span van Hermanus, die Walkerbay Babes, is ook deur na die Top-8-eindstryd. Dié span het Saterdag 67-24 teen Young Good Hope gewen en speel Saterdag in die eindstryd teen die Central Wolves. Die Walkerbay Babes is nie net die verdedigende kampioen nie, maar ook die gunsteling om met die titel weg te loop.
Marquine Lukas, ’n amptenaar van die Boland-rugbyunie en ook ’n inwoner van Hermanus, sê hy is baie trots op die twee spanne van Hermanus wat na die eindstryd deurgedring het. “Dit is ’n baie groot prestasie vir twee spanne van een dorp om in die Boland-eindstryde te speel.” het hy gesê.
Atlantics speel Saterdag in die eindstryd teen Koringberg. Darian Thys is baie dankbaar oor die oorwinning.