Hermanus Times-E-edition-22 April 2026

Ministers pledge harbour support

Senior government ministers have thrown their weight behind ambitious plans to revitalise Hermanus New Harbour, with national and provincial leaders committing significant funding and a new collaborative approach to overcome years of infrastructure delays.

A high-level engagement session on Friday brought together National Minister of Public Works and Infrastructure Dean Macpherson, Western Cape Minister of Infrastructure Tertuis Simmers and local-government leaders.

The meeting addressed growing frustration from local authorities and business owners over prolonged delays in harbour infrastructure management and maintenance, which remains primarily under national government control despite being recognised as a complex, multi-sphere responsibility.

Simmers outlined substantial financial backing for the initiative, emphasising a coordinated government approach supported by a R9,85 billion infrastructure budget and a R152 billion long-term infrastructure pipeline. “Certainty, disciplined planning and intergovernmental alignment are critical to driving growth,” he said, “with Hermanus Harbour identified as a strategic asset to stimulate tourism, investment and local

De

Lille

open

Die vuurtoring-aanleg in L’Agulhas is ná vier jaar teen ’n koste van R81 miljoen voltooi en op 14 April amptelik geopen toe die minister van toerisme, Patricia de Lille, die lint saam met die minister van bosbou, visserye en omgewingsake, Willie Aucamp, geknip het.

Daarna het die twee saam in ’n reusemarkiestent geskoffel, waar gaste op flinke danspassies van Struisbaai

Primêre Skool en die volkslied – treffend uitgevoer deur Zoetendal Akademie –vermaak is. ’n Aantal sprekers het die gehoor ingelig omtrent die betekenis van hierdie mylpaal.

Aucamp het in sy rede gesê: “Kom soek jou ware noord hier” – ’n verwysing na die kompas-verskynsel wat volgens oorlewering by die berugte naalde van Kaap Agulhas ondervind word. Vir die tussentydse voorsitter van die raad van Suid-Afrikaanse Nasionale Parke, Beryl Ferguson, gaan dit hoofsaaklik oor inklusiewe kuratorskap. Die aanleg is ’n

economic development.”

Macpherson stressed the urgency of implementation, confirming support for a collaborative “Right to Repair” approach that would enable municipalities to take a leading role in maintaining and upgrading key harbour infrastructure while national government remains custodian.

The Mayor, Archie Klaas, welcomed the strengthened intergovernmental alignment, noting that the municipality is prepared to support immediate interventions.

The session included representatives

from the Hermanus Business Chamber, ratepayers’ organisations and the local fishing community. Overberg District Municipality Mayor Sakkie Franken also attended the strategic planning session, highlighting the regional significance of the harbour revitalisation project. A joint technical task team will be established between the three spheres to fast-track a lease audit and identify urgent infrastructure interventions. The initiative aims to position Hermanus Harbour as a potential model for decentralised, delivery-focused harbour management.

vuurtoring by L’Agulhas

gesamentlike projek van die departement van toerisme en SANParke. Dit omvat ’n vertolkingsentrum, geskenkwinkel vir plaaslike hand- en kunswerk en ’n restaurant met die gepaste naam Needles.

Vir De Lille is Afrika nie slegs die wieg van die mensdom nie, maar die wieg van kultuur. Sy het die volgende beklemtoon: “Hierdie aanleg moet die spil van die hele streek wees en die voordele wat dit gaan skep, moet deur die hele distrik versprei word. Hierdie gaan oor julle – die mense. Ons as owerhede gee dit nou terug aan die gemeenskap.”

Volgens haar moet toerisme-aandenkings van so ver soos Buffeljags hier te koop aangebied word. Sy het ook verder beklemtoon dat 13 toeriste een direkte werksgeleentheid skep en twee indirektes. “Plaas Kaap Agulhas vandag op jou emmerskoplys.”

- Pierre Massyn - Lees die volledige berig by www.NovaNews.co.za

Local builders hot under the collar

Local builders who have been in the industry in the Overberg for a long time are now fed up. The group of builders representing approximately 200 builders from the Overberg say they are currently sitting at home and unable to find work because the company and contractor are using illegal immigrants.

Who is there to protect us? they ask.

A group of local builders and construction workers visited the Hermanus Times offices to voice their growing frustration over the widespread use of undocumented foreign nationals in the town’s construction industry, announcing plans for protest action. The delegation, representing various construction trades and small building companies in the Overberg area, expressed concerns that mirror a nationwide crisis affecting the South African construction sector.

“We’re not anti-immigrant, but we are pro-fairness and pro-safety,” said one of the builders who requested anonymity. “What we’re seeing is a system that exploits vulnerable people while simultaneously destroying opportunities for local workers and compromising building standards.”

LABOUR ORGANISATIONS ABOUT TO ERUPT

The group cited industry estimates suggesting that undocumented workers make up as much as 90% of the workforce on certain construction sites, a statistic that has alarmed both labour organisations and industry bodies across South Africa.

The builders highlighted several key issues driving their planned protest:

• Wage undercutting: undocumented workers often accept significantly lower wages and work without benefits such as Unemployment Insurance Fund (UIF) contributions or pension schemes, making them attractive to cost-conscious employers over South African workers.

• Safety standards: The group expressed

EMPLOYERS TAKE ADVANTAGE OF UNDOCUMENTED FOREIGNERS’ VULNERABLE LEGAL STATUS TO AVOID PAYING FAIR WAGES.

serious concerns about construction safety, pointing to the recent fatal building collapse in George, where many workers were suspected to be undocumented. Investigations into that tragedy revealed poor safety practices and regulatory failures.

The builders noted employers often exploited undocumented foreigners by demanding longer hours under harsher conditions, taking advantage of their vulnerable legal status to avoid paying fair wages and providing proper working protections.

In a statement they explained: “With South Africa’s unemployment rate among the world’s highest the preference for undocumented workers has intensified competition and reduced opportunities for local builders and labourers and that is why we are planning a a peaceful demonstration to highlight these issues and call for stricter enforcement of labour regulations in the construction industry. We want to see proper documentation checks, fair wage standards and, most importantly, adherence to safety regulations that protect all workers.”

The builders emphasised their concerns extended beyond economic competition to include the welfare of exploited workers and public safety.

The group planned to engage with local authorities and industry stakeholders before proceeding with their protest action. They have called on the Overstrand Municipality and relevant government departments to increase oversight of construction projects and labour practices.

“This is about creating a level playing field where everyone can work safely

Responsibilities in a sectional title scheme . . .

Sectional title developments are a common feature of South Africa’s residential landscape, but they often give rise to confusion about maintenance responsibilities. This article considers the distinction between sections and common property under the Sectional Titles Schemes Management Act 8 of 2011 (“STSM Act”) to clarify who is responsible for what.

Unlike full-title properties, sectional title schemes are group-owned developments where local authorities are not responsible for maintaining shared infrastructure. Instead, legislation divides the property into sections (privately owned) and common property (collectively owned).

The STSM Act provides that owners are responsible for maintaining their sections, defined simply as “a section shown as such on a sectional plan.” This narrow definition limits the extent of an owner’s obligations. In contrast, common property is broadly defined as the land included in the scheme and all parts of buildings not forming part

of a section. This means the body corporate bears responsibility for maintaining shared areas, as well as structural components not forming part of individual sections.

Determining the boundary between a section and common property is critical in avoiding disputes. The STSM Act offers limited guidance, but section 5(4) of the Sectional Titles Act 95 of 1986 provides clarity by stating that the common boundary is the median line of the dividing floor, wall, or ceiling. In practical terms, everything inside the unit is the owner’s responsibility, while the exterior, including foundations and underlying soil, falls under the body corporate.

The STSM Act also recognises exclusive use areas - parts of the common property reserved for the use of specific owners. While these areas remain common property, maintenance responsibilities may vary depending on the scheme’s rules. For more on this topic, visit our website: www.vorsteyn.co.za or reach out to us at 0283130033 or vorsteyn@hermanus.co.za.

and earn a fair wage.”

Last year Hermanus Times (“Thirty foreigners arrested in Hermanus”, Hermanus Times, 26 August 2025) reported on the employment of undocumented or illegal immigrants that came under the spotlight after 29 construction workers, who are classified as undocumented foreign nationals, and a sub-contractor were arrested at the site of an upscale development project in this coastal town.

Officials of the Department of Home Affairs, Hermanus police and Overstrand Law Enforcement descended on the busy construction site in Marine Drive, where a luxurious residential complex offering expansive seaviews is being constructed.

UNDOCUMENTED FOREIGN WORKERS ARRESTED

Thulani Mavuso, spokesperson for the Department of Home Affairs, confirmed the department had acted on information it had received regarding the alleged employment of undocumented foreign nationals. “We arrested 29 undocumented foreign nationals who were labourers and one South African employer, bringing the total of arrests to 30.” He said some of these illegal immigrants, who hail from Zimbabwe, Mozambique and Malawi, had been in South Africa for approximately three years. He added none of the men had indicated in interviews they were married. The men appeared in Hermanus Magistrates’ Court on charges relating to the contravention of the Im-

migration Act and now face deportation to their respective home countries. According to the police law enforcement agencies, in collaboration with the Department of Employment and Labour and the Department of Home Affairs, were intensifying efforts to catch illegal contractors and workers in South Africa through coordinated raids, inspections and special task teams. “Police are working with labour inspectors to conduct mass inspections on construction sites to check for compliance with labour laws and immigration regulations,” they said in a joint statement.

They also emphasised that in South Africa employing undocumented foreign nationals or those in violation of the Immigration Act is a criminal offence, with recent crackdowns resulting in fines often around R10 000 to R15 000 per worker or up to R100 000 in severe cases. Employers face immediate fines or imprisonment for up to a year, with repeat offenders jailed for up to two years.

“If you are aware of a construction company that is making use of illegal workers, don’t hesitate to contact us. You can anonymously report criminal activity to the police via the Crime Stop hotline (08600 10111), the MySAPS App, or by dialing *134*10111#. These services are 24/7, ensure anonymity, and are managed by trained professionals who accept tips without tracing your phone number.”

Die Bereaville-gemeenskapsforum het ’n baie suksesvolle TB-dag saam met die biblioteek aangebied.

Bereaville hou goeie TB-dag

’n Ingeligte gemeenskap beteken groei, samesyn en vooruitgang.

Dit is hoe die Bereaville-gemeenskapsforum (BGF) en die Bereaville-biblioteek voel nadat dié twee organisasies saam met die biblioteek se Yebeyound ’n TBdag aangebied het.

Die geleentheid, wat by die plaaslike kliniek gehou is, het die belangrikheid van gesondheid en veiligheid beklemtoon. Suster Apploon, ’n suster by die kliniek, het die geleentheid gebruik om die gemeenskap te herinner aan die belangrikheid van selfversorging en gesondheidsbewustheid. “As jy nie na jouself kyk nie, sal niemand anders nie,” het sy gesê.

Volgens die besoekers en organiseerders het die geleentheid ’n groot bydrae tot die bewusmaking van tuberkulose (TB) en die belangrikheid van gesondheid in die gemeenskap gelewer. Meer as 60 mense, insluitend jeug en leerders van

‘AS JY NIE NA JOUSELF KYK NIE, SAL NIEMAND ANDERS NIE’

die plaaslike skool, het dit bygewoon om oor gesondheidsake te gesels.

Die BGF en YearBeyond het die gemeenskap vir hul ondersteuning en die personeel van die kliniek vir hul harde werk bedank.

“Ons bedank ook die YearBeyond-span van die Solution Bass Voorstekraal vir hul bydrae tot die icebreaker en die bedien van die gemeenskap,” sê Henno James Sauls, gemeenskapsprojek-koördineerder. “Ons is dankbaar vir die geleentheid om met die gemeenskap saam te werk.”

• Kontak Sauls by 073 022 2166 of bgforum23@gmail.com of saulshenno864@gmail.com vir meer inligting.

Lede gaan steek kers op

Mitzi Buys

Altesaam 28 lede van die Protea-dienssentrum in Caledon het verlede Dinsdag (14 April) ’n heerlike en opvoedkundige uitstappie na Kapula Candles in Bredasdorp onderneem om te sien hoe dié pragtige kerse gemaak en versier word. Hulle het net buite Napier eers heerlik piekniek gehou voordat die Kapula-fabriek besigtig is. Elke lid het ’n kers ontvang wat volgens hul smaak versier is. Marlene Rousseau, die bestuurder van die Protea-dienssentrum, sê: “Om te dink hierdie onderneming het in ’n gewone kombuis ontstaan en is nou ’n kersfabriek.” Die dag is afgesluit met roomys wat sommer krag gegee het vir die pad terug. Protea-dienssentrum bedank Anke van Kapula en elke werker vir die vrien-

Lede van die Protea-dienssentrum buite die Kapulakersfabriek tydens hul onlangse uitstappie.

delike ontvangs, die verduideliking van die kersmaak-proses asook die hulp van die versiering van hul kerse.

Emoji-beweging help orals

Mitzi Buys

Emoji Movement, ’n organisasie sonder winsbejag, is drie jaar gelede gestig om gemeenskapsbetrokkenheid, sosiale bewusmakingsveldtogte, jeugbemagtiging, opvoedkundige ondersteuning en vaardigheidsontwikkeling in die omliggende Overberg-gemeenskappe te bevorder. Aangesien hulle in Myddleton is, vind baie van hul aktiwiteite in Myddleton en Caledon plaas.

Janine Botha van Emoji sê: “Ons is in die gemeenskap betrokke om die jeug met loopbaankeuses te help asook met kollege- en universiteitsaansoeke en beursaansoeke. Verlede jaar het ons sewe studente van Berea en Genadendal met aansoeke gehelp. Al sewe is aanvaar, maar twee wou eers hul antwoordstelle laat hernasien en het nie gegaan nie.”

In die drie jaar van hul bestaan het Emoji Movement al baie vermag. Hulle neem gereeld deel aan bewusma-

kingsprogramme en aktiwiteite wat by die Caledon-biblioteek en die museum aangebied word. Hulle het ook ’n tuintjie by die ingang na Myddleton aangelê. Botha sê hulle het voorheen gereeld opvoedkundige uitstappies onderneem, maar met die verhoogde brandstofkoste is dit deesdae nie moontlik nie. Pretdae, waaraan die jeug en hul ouers deelneem, word ook gereeld gehou en vind altyd groot byval by almal. Emoji het verlde maand ’n Paaspretdag by die Myddleton-sportveld gehou. Botha sê: “Dit was ’n aksiebelaaide dag. Speletjies is met die kinders asook die ouers gespeel. Ná elke speletjie het die kinders ’n paaseier gekry. Lede van die Caledon-brandweer was ook teenwoordig en het aan die speletjies deelgeneem. Die hoogtepunt was natuurlik weer die skuim-glybaan – iets waarvan die kinders eenvoudig nie genoeg kry nie.” Botha het die Caledon-brandweer en almal wat paaseiers geborg het, bedank.

Ons Huis kry ruim skenking

Ons Huis in Bredasdorp het onlangs ’n meevaller van Moov Energy ontvang. Die ACVV-Suideroord-aftreeoord in Bredasdorp, waarvan Ons Huis ’n anneks is, het al diep spore in die gemeenskap getrap en baie mense se lewens aangeraak. Ons Huis is ongeveer 3 km van die hoofgebou af geleë en bied huisvesting aan 29 sub-ekonomiese bejaardes met maatskaplik-ekonomiese uitdagings. Die Suideroord-veerpleegbestuurder besoek die inwoners van Ons Huis minstens een keer per week om na hul welstand om te sien. Voorgeskrewe voedseldienste onder die beheer en bestuur van die voedseldiens-bestuurder word ook gelewer, met die hoofmaaltyd wat daagliks deur Suideroord aan hulle gebied word. ’n Volledige wassery- en skoonmaakdiens sowel as ’n versorgingsdiens word verskaf, asook instandhouding en tuindienste. Alle kamers is volledig gemeubileer en DStv is in ’n gemeenskaplike sitkamer beskikbaar.

“Ons is verskriklik dankbaar vir Moov Energy in Bredasdorp, wat ná hul gholfdag R40 000 aan ons geskenk het,” het Cobia Moelich gesê.

Volgens haar wil sy graag almal bedank wat deel van die gholfdag was en tot die skenking bygedra het.

“Baie dankie aan almal, ons waardeer

elke skenking om dit vir die bejaardes makliker te maak.”

○ Suideroord hou op 29 Mei weer sy jaarlikse basaar. Iets van alles gaan weer beskikbaar wees – van vars groente en vrugte tot vleis en heerlike eetgoed. Inwoners en sakeondernemings word genooi om deel van die basaar te wees en skenkings te gee. Die bankbesonderhede is soos volg: Suideroord-tehuis vir bejaardes, Nedbank 100 1343 727, takkode 198765, verwysing: Basaar en jou naam.

Tourism showcased at WTM Africa

The Overberg District Municipality made a significant impact at World Travel Market (WTM) Africa 2026, the continent’s premier travel trade event, which was held from 13 to 15 April at the Cape Town International Convention Centre.

The annual gathering brought tourism stakeholders from across Africa together, ahead of the much-anticipated Africa’s Travel Indaba. “WTM Africa provided us with an invaluable platform to showcase the Overberg’s diverse natural and cultural experiences to international buyers, media and travel planners,” said Frieda Lloyd, Manager of Local Economic Development, Tourism and Resorts for the Overberg District Municipality. “The strong emphasis this year on adventure tourism and sustainable travel aligned perfectly with what our region has to offer.”

The event served as more than just a showcase opportunity. According to Lloyd “engagement at the show aimed at strengthening partnerships, creating new business opportunities and supporting the collective promotion of the Overberg as an authentic, sustainable, year-round destination.”

The International Luxury Travel Market (ILTM) Africa, which preceded WTM Africa, provided additional exposure for the region. She said high-end buyers and media were encouraged to explore the Western Cape beyond Cape Town through curated itineraries, allowing operators to experience destinations such as the Overberg first-hand.

“This direct experience approach supports more informed destination packaging and promotion,” Lloyd noted. “When tour operators and travel planners can

experience our region personally they become authentic ambassadors for what we offer.”

The Overberg’s presence at WTM Africa was particularly timely, coinciding with the official opening of the Cape Agulhas Precinct development by Minister of Tourism Patricia de Lille.

This project, delivered through a partnership between the Department of Tourism and Department of the Environment, Forestry and Fisheries, transforms Africa’s southernmost tip into a major destination.

“The Cape Agulhas Precinct development goes beyond the iconic lighthouse," Lloyd explained. “It now offers meaning-

ful cultural, heritage and environmental engagement opportunities, which perfectly demonstrates our commitment to sustainable tourism development.”

WTM Africa also provided crucial learning opportunities through discussions on shifting luxury travel trends, the implementation of artificial intelligence in tourism, and sustainable destination management practices.

“Understanding how AI can enhance visitor experiences while maintaining our commitment to sustainable practices helps us stay competitive”.

The Overberg delegation at WTM Africa included representatives from local government, accommodation establish-

ments, adventure and activity providers, transport services, tour operators, media and various tourism products, demonstrating the region’s comprehensive tourism ecosystem. “Our strength lies in this collaborative approach,” Lloyd concluded. “When we work together as a region, showcasing everything from adventure activities to luxury accommodations, we present a compelling and complete destination experience to potential visitors.”

The participation in WTM Africa 2026 reinforces the Overberg’s commitment to positioning itself as a leading sustainable tourism destination, building on its natural beauty, cultural richness and innovative tourism developments.

Skink op 1 Mei ’n glasie sauvignon

“Ons glo mense sal in die toekoms minder drink, maar beter drink. Sauvignon blanc – gemaak met spontane fermentasie, houtveroudering en alternatiewe style – dit is uitstekend geposisioneer.”

Dit is die woorde van Neil Ellis van Neil Ellis Wines in Helshoogte.

Volgens wynkenners is Suid-Afrikaanse sauvignon blanc een van die land se mees karaktervolle kultivars, bekend vir sy veelsydigheid en die manier waarop dit plek, styl en die wynmaker se hand weerspieël – van vars, kusgedrewe style tot komplekse wyne met uitstekende verouderingspotensiaal.

Op internasionale Sauvignon Blancdag, wat op 1 Mei gevier word, word die karaktereienskappe van die wyn ten volle geniet en vanjaar val dit saam met Werkersdag.

Daar is ook verskillende aktiwiteite oor die Wes-Kaap heen wat die wonderlike kultivar vier en met vanjaar se tema, “Tuis”, kan jy met ’n koue glas sauvignon blanc na verskillende aktiwiteite uitsien – van deel wees van die geskiedenis van sauvignon blanc by die Nasdak-venue tot verskillende proegeleenthede.

Vir diegene wat dieper wil delf, is daar

The Story of South African Sauvignon Blanc, ’n koffietafelboek oor die mense, plekke en filosofieë agter die kultivar.

Die boek vertel die stories van 60 produsente volgens streekoorsigte, wat dit terselfdertyd ’n versamelstuk en ’n praktiese gids maak. Dit is beskikbaar by www.sauvignonblanc.com en verkose wynplase.

“Ons sauvignon blanc-aromawiel sluit 72 geurprofiele in – een dag is eenvoudig te kort om die volle veelsydigheid daarvan te ervaar,” sê Elunda Basson, voorsitter van Sauvignon Blanc SA en keldermeester by Steenberg Vineyards.

Sy moedig ook wynliefhebbers aan om die dag saam met hulle te vier.

“Skink ’n glas, laai die gratis aromawiel van ons webwerf af en ontdek waar jou gunstelingwyne hul plek binne die 72 geure vind. Maak #SauvBlancDay jou eie – van saamkuier op die stoep tot besoeke aan jou gunsteling wynplase – en ontdek die ongelooflike verskeidenheid wat ons produsente bied. Volg ons op sosiale media om meer uit te vind oor geleenthede, proeë en lekker kompetisies in Mei, en deel jou #SauvBlancDay-oomblikke.”

Besoek www.sauvignonblanc.com vir nog inligting.

Die Overberg spog met van die beste gehalte sauvignon blanc-wyne landswyd.

Een so ’n wyn is Bouchard Finlayson se 2025 Sauvignon Blanc.

Die wyn is een van die wynkelders se gunsteling-wyne en mense van oor die land heen geniet ’n glasie van die wyn. Volgens ’n woordvoerder van Bouchard Finlayson speel die ligging van die plaas ’n groot rol in die sukses en smaak van die wyn.

“Ons geografiese ligging, geleë binne vyf kilometer van die koel Atlantiese oseaan, bied die mees ideale temperatuur vir sauvignon blanc. Hierby dra die kleigrond wat eie is aan die Hemel-en-Aardevallei en die tropiese klimaat ook tot die unieke smaak van ons wyn by.”

Nog ’n wynplaas in die Hemel-enAarde-vallei wie se sauvignon blanc ’n gunsteling is, is dié van Creation Wines. Dié wyn spog met verskillende aromas, soos grenadella, pynappel en pomelo. Die wyn het ook al vier sterre in die Platter’s Guide behaal. In die Elgin-vallei, met sy koeler klimaat, het dr. Paul Clüver sy appelboorde ingeruil vir wingerde en so ook een van die land se beste sauvignon blanc-wyne geproduseer. Sauvignon blanc is geskik om saam met hoender en vis te geniet, maar ná ’n lang dag se werk is dit ook die ideale wyn wat jou van al jou sorge laat vergeet.

Creation Wines earns One Star at the Eat Out Awards

Mitzi Buys

Creation Wines, which in 2025 was ranked seventh in the World’s Best Vineyards, has received another prestigious accolade.

The Creations Wine Tasting Room on the Hemel-en-Aarde Ridge between Caledon and Hermanus was once again awarded One Star at the Eat Out Woolworths Restaurants Awards recently.

A One Star rating reflects a mark of distinction that sets a restaurant apart in culinary excellence and service.

Co-owner and creative director of Creation Wines Carolyn Martin says: “We are honoured to see our team’s work acknowledged.

For us this accolade is first and foremost a celebration of our people. This experience validates our commitment to experiences that evolve with the seasons while holding fast to harmony between food, wine and environment. What originates in the vineyard should resonate in the glass and at the table.”

Jean-Claude Martin, co-owner and cellarmaster, sees the award as a long-term vision.

“Balance, elegance, distinction and finesse start in healthy, carefully planted vineyards,” he said. “The Eat Out star tells

us that what we’ve nurtured in the soils is being felt by our guests in every glass and on every plate.

“Our One Star award inspires us to keep

pushing local culinary innovation while staying grounded in wellness and nature,” said executive chef Eleanor Coetzee. “Every dish is conceived with wine in mind, so that

food and wine lift each other and our guests leave feeling nourished, not overwhelmed.”

Together, this team creates a culinary experience in which the Hemel-en-Aarde Ridge is expressed, not only in the glass but in every detail of the visit.

Creation Wine’s latest seasonal pairing menu “In Harmony with Nature” – a sensory journey through the most extraordinary moment in the viticultural year – namely the harvest, was launched on 12 March.

“This is the season when nature reveals what it has been nurturing all year, when terroir is not an abstract concept, but visible, tangible, alive,” said Martin.

“The vines are at their most abundant, some still heavy with fruit. The air carries the scent of fermenting juice, pelargonium and fynbos. At Creation nature leads and innovation follows.

“Every pairing, every sensory element, every story you hear at the table connects you to this season, this land and the generations of winemaking wisdom that shape our wines.”

“Because wine is the constant at Creation the menu follows a wine-first approach. Every dish has been crafted in response to what the wine is saying, and to honour it. Each ingredient on the plate exists because of something happening in the glass.”

Velocity Velocity

Drive carefully on wet roads

As wintry weather brings treacherous driving conditions across the Overberg the Automobile Association (AA) urges motorists to exercise extreme caution on wet roads.

The apparent early onset of winter has delivered a sobering reminder of nature’s power, with heavy rains and adverse weather conditions over the past weekend creating hazardous driving situations throughout South Africa. The AA is sounding the alarm; wet roads can reduce tyre grip by up to 50%, making even routine journeys potentially dangerous.

ADAPT YOUR DRIVING STYLE

“Motorists need to understand that wet conditions fundamentally change how their vehicles behave,” emphasises the AA.

“The same driving techniques that work on dry roads can lead to disaster when surfaces are slick with rain.”

The organisation stresses three critical adjustments all drivers must make:

○Brake earlier to account for increased stopping distances.

○Reduce speed when entering corners and curves.

○ Maintain constant focus on road conditions ahead.

VEHICLE PREPARATION IS ESSENTIAL

Before venturing out in wet weather the AA recommends a thorough vehicle-safety

check. Windscreen wipers – both front and rear – must be functioning properly to ensure clear visibility. Equally important is verifying that brake systems are in sound working order.

Tire condition deserves special attention, as worn treads can lead to aquaplaning - a dangerous phenomenon where tires lose contact with the road surface and begin skimming across standing water like a speedboat hull.

CRITICAL SAFETY GUIDELINES

The AA has compiled a comprehensive list

of wet-weather driving tips:

○ Test headlights and brake lights functionality;

○ Inspect windscreen and wiper condition;

○ Check tyre tread depth and overall condition;

○ Ensure adequate fuel for your journey

○ Switch on headlights even during daylight hours;

○ Maintain significantly increased following distances;

○ Reduce speed well below posted limits when conditions warrant

○ Ensure all occupants wear safety belts

SPECIAL HAZARDS TO AVOID

○Never attempt to cross low-lying bridges during floods;

○ Approach standing water cautiously; it may be deeper than it appears;

○Avoid known problem areas when possible;

○ Remember that speed limits are designed for optimal conditions, not wet weather.

EMERGENCY PREPAREDNESS

For longer journeys or travel to areas expecting severe weather, the AA recommends carrying emergency supplies including extra blankets, appropriate clothing, refreshments, and ensuring mobile phones are fully charged.

“Crashes in wet conditions are unfortunately common,” warns the AA. “Now is not the time to take chances with safety. Every driver has a responsibility to adapt their behavior to protect themselves, their passengers, and other road users.”

The message is clear: respect the weather, respect the road and arrive alive. As winter conditions persist, these simple precautions could mean the difference between a safe arrival and becoming a statistic.

Remember: When in doubt, delay your journey. No destination is worth risking lives over.

For more road safety information and updates on driving conditions, visit the AA website or contact their emergency services.

Velocity Velocity

The winners of

Chess Open is the best yet

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ADDRESS: 5Dyer Street , Franskraal

Property Description:

Wellmaintainedhousein verypopular coastal town. Lounge/Dining room,3bedrooms, entertainment room, extra large wendyhouse, garage Erfsize: 694m² ALIFESTYLEINVESTMENT WORTHMAKING FISHING,HIKING, SWIMMING,BIRDWATCHING Only160kmfromCape Town; 37kmfromHermanus. NORESERVEPRICE [Subject to confirmation]

Conditionsofsale: 5%depositaswellastheauctioneer ’s feeondayofAuction.Guaranteeswithin30days afterconfirmation.IDenFicadocumentsforregistration.Noregistrationfee.

Viewingand registration: From11:00onday of Auction. Formoreinfoandphotos: Dan van Zyl.082-4583867. danvanzyl49@gmail.com

Applicationsare hereby inv ited from qu alifie d pe rs onstobe ap pointedinthe undermentioned v acancies:

PRINCIPALADMINISTRATOR: INCIDENTCOMMAND CENTRE,EMERGENCY CONTROL & SUPPORT SERVICES

Directorate: MunicipalPublicSafety Department: Fire, Rescue&DisasterManangement Reference number: WC0329652

Basicsalary: •R420684

•CellPhoneallowance

•Essential Vehicleallowance

Employmenttype: Permanent

Placeof Work: Hermanus

Requirements:

•A relevantthree-yeartertiaryqualification,preferablyaNationalDiplomaorBdegree•Computerliteracy •Eight(8) yearsormore relevantexperienceofwhichtwo (2) years mustbeatSupervisorylevel. ForfurtherinformationpleasecontactMr. LesterSmithon0283135041. MunicipalNoticeNumber:82/2026

DIVISIONALCOMMANDER

Directorate: MunicipalPublicSafety

Department: Fire, Rescue&DisasterManangement

Reference number: WC0324930

Basicsalary: •R473640

•CellPhoneallowance

•Essential Vehicleallowance

Employmenttype: Permanent

Placeof Work:Hermanus

Requirements: •AdvancesfromStationCommanderandhasa relevanttertiaryqualification,preferablyaDiplomainFire Technology•Computerliteracy:MSOffice•AvalidCodeBdriver’slicence•10 years’operationalexperienceofwhichfive (5) years mustbeatsupervisorylevel(Platoon/StationCommander).

ForfurtherinformationpleasecontactMr.LesterSmithon0283135041.

MunicipalNoticeNumber:83/2026

To viewdetailedadvertisementwithall relevantinformation fortheabove vacanciespleasevisitOverstrand Municipality’s websiteat:www.overstrand.gov.za

Closingdate:06May2026

DrDGIO’Neill

MunicipalManager/MunisipaleBestuurder/UmphathiKamasipala P.O. Box/ Posbus/Ibhokisi yePosi20HERMANUS7200

ESTATENOTICE

IntheEstateoftheLate JULIAALAM,Identity Number660517016508 8 ,a widowof 13 MOOIZICHTGARDENS,SANDBAAI, HERMANUS,WESTERNCAPE,whodiedon7 August2025atHermanus.

MASTEROFTHEHIGHCOURT:CAPE TOWN ESTATENO:001837/2026.

DebtorsandCreditorsintheaboveestateare requestedtopaytheirdebtsandlodgetheirclaims withtheundersignedwithinaperiodofthirtydays reckonedas17April2026.

DATEDatHERMANUSonthis17thdayof APRIL2026.

MICHAELRANGE&ASSOCIATES, ATTORNEYSFOREXECUTOR, 101 WARRINGTONARCADE, 8HARBOURROAD, HERMANUS,7200. (REF:MR/MP/A300R)

The 2026 Hermanus Chess Club Open, one of the Western Cape’s premier rapid-chess tournaments, had a record 182 participants competing for R51 400.

The 17-year-old International Master Jan Karsten claimed the Championship section title in dramatic fashion, after winning the 2026 South African Closed Chess Championships in Sandton. The Open proved exceptionally competitive, with three players tying on six points. Karsten

NM10055584-HL220426

NOTICEOF PUBLIC PARTICIPATIONPROCESS

NOTICEOF THEPRE-APPLICATIONOFA S24G RECTIFICATIONAPPLICATION: PROPOSED DEVELOPMENTO FERFRE/793 (WATERWORKS) INGRABOUW, THEEWATERSKLOOF LOCAL MUNICIPALITY,WESTERN CAPE

Noticeishereby giveninterms ofRegulation 8ofthe Section24G FineRegulations,2017 (GNR698, Gazette40994)undertheNational EnvironmentalManagementAct (ActNo.107 of1998),thata publicparticipationprocessisbeingundertakenfor aSection24G rectificationapplicationforErf RE/793 (Waterworks)inGrabouw, TheewaterskloofLocal Municipality,WesternCape.The applicationwillbesubmitte dtotheDepartment of EnvironmentalAffairsand DevelopmentPlanning(DEA&DP).

ProjectDescription:

TheTheewaterskloofLocalMunicipalityintends tosubmit aSection24GRectification Applicationfor ErfRE/793(Waterworks),located inGrabouw,WesternCape.Theproperty, measuringapproximately7.2hectares,fallswithinWard 11ofthemunicipalityand is currentlyfullyoccupiedbyinformalsettlements. BetweenJuly2 021and February 2022, temporaryservices,including electricity,informalwatersupply,an dsanitationconnections, were installedonthesitetosupportresidents,inlinewiththe munic ipality’smandateto providebasicservices.Erf RE/793 alsoformspartoftheGreaterGrabouw HousingProject, whichentailstheplanningand developmentofapproximately7,000housingopportunities withinthebroader Grabouwarea. Withinthisinitiative,thesite is designatedunder the UpgradingofInformalSettlements Programme(UISP). However, astemporaryservices were installedpriortoobtainingenvironmentalauthorisation, aSection24GRectification Processisrequiredtoaddressth eunauthorisedactivitiesand facilitatetheformalisationof theinformalsettlement.

Applicant:

Projectname:

Theewaterskloof Municipality Proposed DevelopmentofErf RE/793 (Waterworks)inGrabouw, Thee waterskloof LocalMunicipality,WesternCape

ListedActivities: Thetriggered “listedactivities”intermsoftheNEMA EIARegulations,2014 (asamended in April2017):

LN 1(GNRNo.R327)Activity9 &27

LN 3(GNRNo.R324)Activity4 &12

OpportunitytoParticipate:

Engineering Advice &Services( EAS) has beenappointedasanindependentenvironmental assessment practitionertocoordinate, manage,and compilethe relevantenvironmental impactandmanagementreports,aswellastofacilitatethe relevant publicparticipation processrelatedtotheproposedprojectintermsofNEMA. Interestedandaffectedparties (I&AP) areinvitedtocomp letean dsubmittheI&AP form on requestvia e-mailortheEAS website(detailsbelow). More informationcan be furnishedonrequest. Registration of Interested &AffectedParties (I&APs: Intermsofthe Section24G Regulations, a20-daypreliminary public participationperiodis beingundertakentonotifyI&APs andinviteregistration. TheBackgroundInformation Document(BID)and Notificationletter will providemoreinformation regardingthe project, aswellas SiteNoticesaroundthedevelopmentarea. Please re gisterbetween 24 April 2026 – 15 May2026 (20days) to receiveongoingcommunicatio nthroughoutthe Section 24GRectification Applicationpro cess.Youwillbenotifiedonce reportsbecomeavailable forpublicreview.

ContactDetails: Mr Kurt Wicht(EAP)

Engineering Ad viceandServices Tel: 0415812421 Fax: 0866839899 E-Mail: enviro@easpe.co.za Website: http://www.easemp.co.za PLEASE

edging former Hermanus Open champions Charlton Mnyasta (2023) and Matfey Rogov (2025) out using the Buchholz Cut-1 tie-break system, which ranks on opponents’ overall performance.

The tournament enjoys generous sponsor support. Long-standing gold sponsor STBB has backed the event since 2023. Two new gold sponsors are Suzuki Hermanus and Proferizon IT. “Their support has been crucial in helping us stage another successful tournament...,” organisers noted. It featured six sections catering for all skill levels: Championship, Advanced, Intermediate, u-14, u-12, and u-10, ensuring broad participation across age groups and rating levels.

Results: IM Jan Daniel Karsten; NM Charlton Mnyasta; FM Matfey Rogov; Timofey Rogov and CM Reegan Palmer. Special awards went to WRM Jacqui Grobbelaar (Best Female) and Robert Chitongo (Best Senior). The Friday evening blitz tournament on 17 April saw CM Kenneth Willenberg claim victory, followed by CM Reegan Palmer and Sphamandla Thalente Siwela.

Kaylee Budram earned Best Female honors, while Charel Barnard and Ewan Kromhout took Best Junior and Best Senior respectively. Since its inception in 2023, the Hermanus Chess Club Open has rapidly established itself as a highlight on the local chess calendar, successfully combining elite competition with grassroots participation. For more info contact Hermanus Chess Club chairman Martin Brink on 076 593 0010.

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.

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.

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

OVERBERG PEST CONTROL cc Fumigation Specialists Including *Beetle COC's and Timber treatments *Domestic/ Commercial/Agricultural/ Pest Control

MY NAME IS Bridget Beard from Malawi, looking for a job Tuesday, Wednesday & Friday as a domestic or laundry worker. 4 years' experience. For more information, please contact me on 069 881 6803

GREETINGS. My name is Crispin Ponto. I am a Malawian guy looking for a job as a cleaner, housekeeping, domestic work and as a gardener. I am hardworking, honest and have good communication skills. I have contactable references and experience in the above-mentioned fields. I would be thrilled for the opportunity to come in for an interview. Thank you for your time and consideration. My contact 075 384 1341.

MY NAME IS Tryphine Nyoni, looking for a job as a house cleaner or as a babysitter. Available to work full/part-time. I am 28 years old and a very hard worker. I lvoe pets and I am friendly. Please WhatsApp me on 061 146 8327.

I AM Jesca a Malawian lady age 40 looking for a job as a house cleaner or babysitter. I am a hard worker, honest and a fast learner. I have 7 years working experience with references. please call or WhatsApp me on 060 108 4197 or for reference call 083 395 9134.

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.

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.

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

I AM Chikondi Tembo a Malawian man age 25 looking for work as a painter, gardener, housekeeper and willing to learn any kind of job..You can call or WhatsApp me on 073 204 6558. Reference available.

I AM Lloyd a Malawian man with 5 years' working experience & I am available to do your gardening, cleaning your swimming pool, housekeeping, window cleaning, waterproofing, painting or ironing. I am available Tuesday, Friday and Saturday. Can start immediately. Please call or WhatsApp me today on 063 334 3388.

I AM Mary a Malawian lady with 3 years working experience looking for a job as a domestic worker or cleaner. I am hardworking, honest and I am available every day. Reference available. Please call or WhatsApp me on 068 321 2098.

MY NAME IS Ruth Munoti. I am looking for a job a ss domestic worker. I am available full time, Monday to Friday. I love pets and I am very friendly and ready to start anytime. 5 years experience and hardworking. please call me on 081 771 1410.

I AM Virginia Notheni Ndiwa and I am available as a housekeeper. I am looking forward to making your home super clean. References are available. Call 084 948 8649.

GENERAL

CONTACT US/KONTAKONS 028312 3717

Uitgewer/Publisher

Justin Cupido (justin.cupido@novusmedia.co.za)

Redakteur/Editor

Mariëtte Strydom (mariette.strydom@novusmedia.co.za)

Advertensiebestuurder

Ilse Fourie (ilse.fourie@novusmedia.co.za)

Advertensies/Advertisements

Gail Cupido-Lukas (gail.cupido@novusmedia.co.za)

OliviaDickson (olivia.dickson@novusmedia.co.za)

Geklassifiseerd/Classifieds

YolandePistilli (yolande.pistilli@novusmedia.co.za)

Caledon-korrespondent/correspondent

MitziBuys 0765430261

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.

IntheEstateoftheLate MICHAELCHARLES COMBER,Identitynumber:3701215038084 of HermanuswhodiedatLonehillon 11 February2026,widower.

MASTER’SREFERENCE:005577/2026

DebtorsandCreditorsintheaboveEstateare requestedtopaytheirdebtsandlodgetheirclaims withtheundersignedwithinaperiodof30(THIRTY) daysreckonedasfrom FRIDAY, 24APRIL2026

GUTHRIE&THERON ATTORNEYS, WJADU TOIT,FOREXECUTOR 77MAINROAD,HERMANUS REF:JVR/jr/VC0435

Council approvedtheAdjustmentBudget 2025/26on17 April2026.

Furtherdetailsare availableonour website at: www.twk.gov.zaorcontacttheChiefFinancialOfficer (CFO)at0282143300during officehours

MunicipalManager Theewaterskloof Municipality 06PleinStreet Caledon 7230 156513

IntheEstateoftheLate LESLIENEVILLE ROBSON,Identitynumber:3810065034083 of320PietRetiefCrescent,Sandbaai,Hermanus whodiedatHermanuson 11 August2025, widower.

MASTER'SREFERENCE:006266/2026

DebtorsandCreditorsintheaboveEstateare requestedtopaytheirdebtsandlodgetheirclaims withtheundersignedwithinaperiodof30 (THIRTY)daysreckonedasfrom FRIDAY, 24APRIL2026.

GUTHRIE&THERON ATTORNEYS, WJADU TOIT,FOREXECUTOR 77MAINROAD,HERMANUS REF:JVR/jr/VR0284

IntheEstateoftheLate LYNETTEPHOEBE ROBSON,Identitynumber:4606050036086 of 320PietRetiefCrescent,Sandbaaiwhodiedat Sandbaaion16October2023,widow.

MASTER'SREFERENCE:006289/2026

DebtorsandCreditorsintheaboveEstateare requestedtopaytheirdebtsandlodgetheirclaims withtheundersignedwithinaperiodof30(THIRTY) daysreckonedasfromFRIDAY, 24APRIL2026.

GUTHRIE&THERON ATTORNEYS, WJADU TOIT,FOREXECUTOR 77MAINROAD,HERMANUS REF:JVR/jr/VR0283 NM10055463-HL220426

NM10055299-HL220426

THE OVERBERGCOMMUNITYTRUST

TheOverbergCommunity Trust(IT208/98),basedinCaledon,in partnershipwith TsogoSunCaledonCasinoHotel&Spa,invites nominationsfortheappointmentof Trusteestofillvacanciesintermsof Clause8ofthe TrustDeed.

Applicantsmustresideinthemagisterialdistrictsof Villiersdorpor Riviersonderend.

MinimumRequirements: •SouthAfricancitizenwithvalidID/Passport •Residentwithinthespecifieddistrict •SAPSPoliceClearance

PreferredSkills: Fi nanc e& budgeting,projectma nagem ent , gov ernanc e,risk management,ITskills,strongcommunication,andapassionfor communitydevelopment.

Thesuccessfulcandidatewillcontributetothestrategicdirection, governance,andoverallperformanceofthe Trust.

ClosingDate:18May2026at15h00

Applicationformsareavailablefromthe TrustOfficeorOfficialOverberg Tr us t website.Submitcomplete d form s with a CVto info@overbergcommunitytrust.co.za orhanddeliverto35Human StreetCaledon.Onlyshortlistedcandidateswillbecontacted.

NM10055665-HL220426

NoticeofSupplementary Liquidationand DistributionAccountlying forinspection

Pursuanttotheprovisionsofsection35(5)of Act66of1965,noticeisherebygiventhatthe SupplementaryLiquidationandDistribution AccountintheEstateofthe LATEGERNA SPANGENBERGIdentityno6904240080 082 unmarriedandwhodiedat Hermanus on 8/7/2023,Master'sreferencenumber 012997/2023islyingforinspectionatthe officesoftheMasteroftheHighCourt,Cape TownandtheMagistrate'sOffice,Hermanus, foraperiodof21daysasfrom 24April2026

Town Feature

Dusty street to football field

In the heart of Zwelihle, Hermanus, where the morning sun casts long shadows across unpaved roads and children’s laughter mingles with the sounds of everyday life, a dream was born. It wasn’t born in a boardroom or a fancy stadium but on a patch of uneven ground where a group of passionate community members saw potential where others saw problems.

The Bombers Football Club started in 2010 with nothing more than a worn leather ball, a handful of dedicated volunteers and an unwavering belief that football could change lives. What began as informal kickabouts among neighbourhood kids quickly evolved into something much more meaningful.

The founders – local residents who had witnessed too many young people fall victim to the streets – knew they had to act.

“We didn’t have goals, we used old tyres and stones,” recalled one of the founding members. “We didn't have a proper field, just that dusty patch behind the community center. But we had something more valuable – hope.”

At its core the club serves as a beacon of hope for children who might otherwise find themselves drawn to the dangerous allure of street life, gangs, and drugs. Every afternoon, as the school day ends, young faces light up as they head to the makeshift training ground, trading potential trouble for the joy of the beautiful game.

“We believe that a healthy body houses a healthy mind,” declares the club’s motto,

painted in bold letters on the community center wall. This philosophy drives everything the club does, from teaching basic football skills to instilling values of teamwork, discipline and respect.

One of the players remembers when he first joined the Bombers three years ago. “I was hanging around with the wrong crowd, you know? But when I started playing here, I found my family. Coach showed me that I could be something more than what the streets offered.”

The club provides more than just football training; it offers structure and routine in young lives that often lack stability, positive role-models through dedicated coaches and volunteers, life-skills education alongside football training and a safe space where children can just be children.

While the spirit of the Bombers burns bright the reality of limited resources casts a shadow over their ambitions. The club desperately needs sponsors and community support to provide proper equipment for their growing number of young players. Current needs include: football kits (many children play in torn clothes and bare feet, soccer boots), proper footwear to prevent injuries and improve performance, shin guards (essential protective equipment for safe play), training cones and bibs for proper coaching and skill development, quality footballs (the current ball is held together with tape and prayers), goal posts (currently, makeshift markers) and training equipment – cones, markers and basic fitness gear.

The Bombers are looking for sponsors; local businesses, organisations or individuals who share their vision of using sport as a tool for positive change. Every contribution, however small, directly impacts a child’s life and helps build a stronger, safer community.

As one young player said: “When I’m on the field I forget about everything else. I just focus on the ball, my teammates and our dreams. The Bombers gave me hope when I didn't know I needed it.”

The club’s dream is to expand their youth programmes to accommodate more children; building proper training facilities; forming competitive teams for different age groups; creating pathways for talented players to advance their football careers and establish community programmes that extend beyond sport.

The Bombers Football Club proves that with passion, dedication and community support humble beginnings can lead to extraordinary outcomes. They’re not just building football players; they're building future leaders, responsible citizens and proof that sport truly can change lives. In Zwelihle, where challenges are real but hope is stronger, the Bombers continue their mission: one child, one training session, one dream at a time. They know that when you give a child a ball and a chance, you give them the world.

“We may have started with nothing, but we’re building everything that matters – hope, community, and futures filled with possibilities.”

To sponsor, call 069 299 5918.

Hermies val vas teen Hoërskool Swartland

David Rossouw

Die Hoërskool Swartland (Rockies) en die Hoërskool Hermanus het mekaar Saterdag (18 April) in ’n vriendskaplike wedstryd op die Hoërskool Swartland se sportterrein in ’n derby-sportdag die stryd aangesê.

Die eerste wedstryde het die sportdag ingelui toe die twee skole se o.14A-spanne mekaar aangedurf het en is daarna gevolg met wedstryde tussen die o.15A-, o.19B- en o.16A-spanne.

Swartland en Hermanuslaerskole se o.13-spanne het die toeskouers getrakteer met opwindende laerskoolrugby in die voorwedstryd voor die hoofwedstryd van die o.19A-spanne, wat om 14:30 afgeskop het.

Die Rockies, wat die eerste helfte teen die wind begin het, het nie die toeskouers en hul spanmaats teleurgestel nie en die eerste punte van die wedstryd met ’n drie van ’n lynstaan af met ’n rolmaalbeweging afgerond. Met die doelskop suksesvol, het hulle 7-0 voorgeloop, maar dit was van korte

duur, want Hermanus het ná ’n paar minute teruggeslaan met ’n onverdoelde drie en die gaping tot 5-7 verklein.

Terwyl die Rockies se pak voorspelers die wedstryd voorlangs oorheers het en die toeskouers met goeie voorspelerspel vermaak het, het Hermanus se vlugvoetige agterlyn ook opwindende spel agterlangs opgelewer. Toe halftyd aanbreek was die Rockies met twee punte voor – 28-26 – en opwindende rugby is in die tweede helfte voorspel. Ná rustyd het die Rockies hul meesterskap teen Hermanus in die vaste en losspel getoon en na ’n vinniger tempo oorgeslaan. Hermanus moes net verdedig. Die Rockies het in die proses nog drie verdoelde drieë behaal, terwyl Hermanus geen teenvoeter vir die Rockies se vurige spel tussen voor- en agterspelers gehad het nie.

Hermanus het hard probeer met agterlyn-aanvalle, wat hul aanvalswapen was, maar kon nie die Rockies se verdediging breek nie en is uiteindelik met 49-26 geklop.

Wys staal teen seniors

Junior en

Mitzi Buys

titel in selfde jaar

Die 17-jarige Matao le Roux van Caledon het die SuidAfrikaanse junior hoogspringkampioen geword.

Slegs drie weke later – die afgelope Vrydag 17 April – het hy die haas onmoontlike vermag toe hy by Atletiek Suid-Afrika (ASA) se senior nasionale kampioenskap in Stellenbosch die senior titel met ’n sprong van 2.05 m gewen het. Dit is gewis ’n besondere prestasie – veral as ’n mens die ongunstige weersomstandighede tydens die kampioenskapsbyeenkoms in ag neem. Oor sy uitsonderlike

prestasie sê Matao: “Ek kan nog nie glo dat ek nou ook die SA senior champ is nie. Dis my eerste jaar dat ek aan seniors deelneem en om so ’n goeie prestasie te behaal, is iets wat ek amper nie kan glo nie. Ek voel baie goed oor my hoogte van 2.05 m. Om in die reën te spring, was baie bad, maar ek het steeds my beste gegee. Ek wil ook dankie sê vir my afrigter en my ma wat altyd daar is vir my asook vir die Here wat altyd by my is om my te alle tye en in alle toestande deur te dra en ’n goeie resultaat te gee.”

Heinrich Fortuin, Matao se afrigter, sê “Matao se deelname aan die Suid-Afrikaanse senior

kampioenskap was ’n geleentheid om aan ’n kompetisie van hoogstaande gehalte deel te neem, veral omdat hoogspringers soos Breyton Poole en Taylin Smith, wat al voorheen goeie hoogtes bereik het, ook deelgeneem het.

“Selfs die feit dat dit die hele tyd gedurende die kompetisie gereën het, kon nie Matao se geesdrif keer nie. Hy was, soos gewoonlik, baie opgewonde om te spring, maar terselfdertyd ook kalm, vol selfvertroue en reg vir die oomblik.

“Ons het van die begin af geweet dat daar weens die reën nie baie goeie hoogtes gespring sou word nie en dit het neergekom op wie die weersomstandighede die beste hanteer.”

“Matao is vir eers klaar met

kompetisies vir April en ons sien uit na die onderbreking waar die fokus vir die volgende paar weke gaan wees om hard te oefen.

“Ons wag dan vir die aankondigings vir spanne waarvoor hy moontlik gekies kan word, naamlik die span wat Suid-Afrika by die o.20-wêreldkampioenskap asook die JeugOlimpiese Spele kan gaan verteenwoordig,” sê Fortuin.

Maeve Jonkers, Matao se ma, het gesê toe hulle uitvind Matao is vir die Boland- senior span gekies, was dit ’n groot voorreg en eer, want nie baie juniors word vir die senior span gekies nie. Matao se hoogtes was konstant bo 2 m met ’n persoonlike beste van 2.15m.

“Jy het mos al in die reën

gespring terwyl jy boonop nog siek was ook, so doen net jou beste, dis goed genoeg vir my,” het sy aan haar seun gesê toe hulle die weer sien terwyl hulle op pad Stellenbosch toe was. Jonkers het vertel die atlete het in die reën een vir een uitgeval totdat net Matao en Breyton Poole oor was. “Hulle het die vorige Vrydag ook teen mekaar gespring en hoewel hulle dieselfde hoogte gespring het, is Poole eerste geplaas,” sê Jonkers.

“My hart het in my keel gesit toe Matao 2.05m gespring en gewen het. Vir ’n junior om die junior en senior nasionale hoogspringtitels in dieselfde jaar te wen, is fenomenaal. Ek bars van trots. Baie dankie aan Matao se afrigter, Heinrich Fortuin.”