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KOUGA

20 000 COPIES WEEKLY Thursday January 8, 2026 |  042 293 2973 | E-mail kougaexpress@novusmedia.co.za

Touchies draws record crowds The USN Jeffreys Bay Touchies Tournament 2025 drew record crowds to Main Beach on Boxing Day, with organisers celebrating a sold-out event. The tournament featured 38 teams competing across men’s and women’s divisions. ’When we sold out in 11 hours with 16 teams on standby, we knew this was going to be something special,’ said event organiser Christo Botha. Teams travelled from Gqeberha, Hankey, Patensie, Thornhill, Humansdorp, Joubertina, Pretoria, and Brakpan to compete in the two-day tournament. For more information and results, turn to page 8. PHOTO: SUPPLIED

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NEWS | NUUS

8 January 2026

ST FRANCIS BAY:

New Shipwreck Museum showcases centuries of coastal history and artifacts THE Eastern Cape’s coastline gained a new cultural landmark on Monday 15 December, with the official opening of the St Francis Shipwreck Museum, transforming a humble community initiative into a world-class heritage attraction. Located at 2 Diana Crescent, the museum celebrates the rich maritime history of the region between Plettenberg Bay and Bird Island, where treacherous waters have claimed countless vessels over the centuries. The Eastern Cape coastline is the graveyard of many wrecks, amongst which are the Grosvenor, the Sacramento and the Doddington. This is one of only two shipwreck museums in South Africa, with the other situated in Bredasdorp. The project’s origins trace back to October 2023 and were sparked by local amateur historian Dave Bowmer, who previously operated a small shipwreck museum alongside his ice cream shop. He was soon joined by renowned maritime historian Malcolm Turner. Turner, author of the authoritative Shipwrecks & Salvage (1988), brought decades of expertise to authenticate and curate the museum's growing collection. Matt Gennrich, chairperson of Friends of the St Francis Nature Areas (FOSTER), partnered with Turner and Bowmer to design the museum’s layout and displays. The Humansdorp Museum Association also partnered to bring the shipwreck museum to life. The project accelerated during the ‘Wildflower and Shipwreck Experience’ at the September 2024 Calamari Festival, where municipal officials Anene Jonck and Heidi Halgryn from the Finance and Economic Development section recognised the tourism potential and championed the establishment of a permanent facility. As word spread, local residents began donating or loaning maritime artefacts. The museum maintains strict authentication standards, accepting only verified items from specific wrecks along this coastal stretch. The museum’s exterior features two commanding cannons from the 1647

wreck Atalaia, on loan from local businessman Phil Gutsche, as well as an anchor from the 1859 Lady Head. During the opening of the shipwreck museum, homage was also paid to the commercial divers who salvaged wrecks to ensure that this part of history and the stories of these shipwrecks are recorded. Kouga Executive Mayor Hattingh Bornman praised the development, saying that the establishment of the St Francis Shipwreck Museum is a remarkable achievement for the Kouga region. “It not only preserves our maritime heritage but also strengthens Kouga’s position as a cultural and tourism hub.” g The museum joins Kouga’s expanding cultural portfolio, which now includes five museums: Bruce’s Museum, the Humansdorp Museum, the Shell Museum, and the Surf Museum, alongside the new shipwreck facility. g The St Francis Shipwreck Museum operates Monday to Saturday, 10:00– 15:00. Admission costs R20 for adults and R5 for children.

Some of the artifacts showcased at the Shipwreck Museum. The museum maintains strict authentication standards, accepting only verified items from specific wrecks along this coastal stretch.

The museum’s exterior features two commanding cannons from the 1647 wreck Atalaia, on loan from local businessman Phil Gutsche.

PHOTOS: NICOLETTE THOMAS

Adopt a Village set to transform Jeffreys Bay RAZAAN PLAATJIES ADOPT a Village South Africa will be hosting their community transformation programme at the Pellsrus Caravan Park in Jeffreys Bay on 19 and 20 February 2026. According to Jeffreys Bay host, Pastor Sakhekile Mbili, the Adopt a Village organisation is a movement that seeks to see true Christian Kingdom Transformation take place in communities through a comprehensive training programme. The programme, which consists of four training modules, one every quarter, focuses on three transformation pillars: discipleship, community development, and orphan and vulnerable children care.

Mbili said that the discipleship component will be challenged to form communities of faith using the Discovery Bible Study method and explore different models of evangelism and church planting. Meanwhile, the community development pillar will focus on teaching participants how to research and implement projects in their communities aimed at lifting people out of poverty and hopelessness. Mbili said that experts in the field also assist with guidance on how to register a non-profit organisation or non-profit company. Furthermore, he said that the orphan and vulnerable children component shows participants how to identify vulnerable chil-

ESTORETHA STRYDOM T: 082 896 5504

estoretha.strydom@novusmedia.co.za NM10025169-KG280825

dren in their communities and provide practical guidance on how to care for and assist them. “All three pillars work together to see holistic transformation take place,” said Mbili. “The goal is that we would all become Kingdom Catalysts and Agents of Change in our particular area.” To participate in the programme, applicants must pay a non-refundable registration fee of R100 by 30 January 2026. Mbili said that participants are required to attend all four training sessions throughout the year without missing any sessions to receive a graduation certificate. He further said that requirements include completing all assignments given during training and agreeing to one onsite coaching visit per year. The Jeffreys Bay sessions represent one of several training dates scheduled for 2026. Other locations include East London on 5 and 6 February, Mthatha on 11 and 12 February, and Gqeberha on 17 and 18 February. Mbili said that all teachers and facilitators are experienced and passionate about their particular areas, and described the training as “a wonderful opportunity to network and learn from each other.” “We cannot wait for the municipality or

government to improve the circumstances in our community; through this training, we can bring about change ourselves,” said Mbili. “We train people to transform the community from the inside out.” As the founder of a non-profit organisation, Abancedi Community Development Centre, based in Ebumnyameni, an informal settlement in Ocean View, Mbili has already begun making a change in his community through his garden project. “I want to make a change where I am staying and to provide people with employment and change the way they think,” said Mbili. Despite being an active member in his community, he said that when he established his organisation in 2024, he did not realise the needs of orphans and vulnerable children. Fortunately, after completing the training offered by Adopt a Village South Africa, Mbili began identifying vulnerable children and orphans in his community to assist them. “The training is a good help to the community because the training helps to bring change, and it changes the way you think,” said Mbili. For more information or to register for the programme, contact Pastor Sakhekile Mbili at 068 773 6895.

8 January 2026

NUUS | NEWS

KougaExpress 3

ANTI-VIOLENCE ACTIVISM:

Local teacher makes global impact

RAZAAN PLAATJIES

MELISSA Lufele, a teacher at Lungiso High School in Humansdorp, has been making significant strides in addressing sexual violence and empowering young women through her involvement in an international research project. Born and bred in KwaNomzamo, Lufele has been making a huge difference in children’s lives as an author, teacher and choir conductor. Her work extends far beyond the classroom through her participation in “Networks for Change and Well-being: Girl-Led Policy Making From the Ground Up,” a project focusing on policymaking to address sexual violence in Canada and South Africa. Lufele said that the project began as research in South African universities, namely Nelson Mandela University (NMU) and the University of KwaZulu-Natal (UKZN). “We co-created knowledge and identified solutions to improve women's safety on and around campuses, aiming to make young women’s voices accessible to those in rural areas and townships,” said Lufele. Through this initiative, Lufele and her colleagues have authored four books documenting the experiences of young women from rural areas and townships: • Fourteen Times a Woman: Indigenous Stories from the Heart (Girls Leading Change, 2016) • Hamba Thobekile: Rewriting the Narratives of Young Indigenous Women in Times of Gendered Violence (Girls Leading Change, 2018) • Dear Nosizwe: Conversations

about Gender-Inclusive Teaching in Schools (Girls Leading Change, 2019) • Mirrored Lives of Change: From Girls Leading Change to Champion Teachers (Girls Leading Change, 2024) “These books document the journey of 14 young women from different rural areas and townships, sharing stories of struggle, transition, discovery, and growth. They showcase how we used our lessons to empower young girls through gender-based violence activism,” said Lufele. As education students, Lufele and her colleagues created girls’ clubs in schools to help young women identify and address 21st-century challenges. “Our aim was to provide young girls in our communities with visual representations of themselves, showing that we’re navigating similar challenges and sharing the tools we used to forge a decent life,” said Lufele. The impact of her work has taken her beyond South African borders. She travelled to the United States, specifically to Minnesota, which is located near the Canadian border, where she was hosted by St Cloud State University and Victoria University. “Through this work, I managed to travel abroad twice. Both opportunities humbled me immensely, as I never thought a young girl raised by a single mother in KwaNomzamo could ever experience such,” said Lufele. Her international speaking engagements have reinforced her commitment to youth empowerment. “Delivering speeches in front

of esteemed guests, including recent panel discussions at Wits University, has been a driving force behind my desire to encourage the youth to dream big, even if those dreams seem far-fetched. I believe that dreams are the first step to achieving the impossible,” said Lufele. Currently an active member of Girls Leading Change and a Champion Teacher, Lufele has transitioned her activism from Patensie to Lungiso High School. “I’m looking forward to continuing my activism at the school, collaborating with existing projects like Vision for Women,” said Lufele. Looking ahead, she said, her vision is to help develop young women and men who can coexist effectively in society, with the ultimate goal of ending gender-based violence in our lifetime. “I believe mentorship is my calling, whether through teaching, community building, or music, my other passion,” said Lufele. She is currently working on creating a venture that combines arts and activism to drive change in young people. Lufele and her colleagues launched “Mirrored Lives of Change: From Girls Leading Change to Champion Teachers” in partnership with the Wits Female Academic Leaders Fellowship, though accessibility remains a challenge due to funding and endorsement requirements. “Even if one child benefits from our work, that would be a success,” said Lufele. She said she chose to become a teacher to use her “superpower”to inspire and empower children. “My hope is that every child

Melissa Lufele. who steps into my classroom will experience the possibility that everything can be achieved with the right attitude and belief,”

PHOTO: SUPPLIED

said Lufele. For more info or to purchase one or more of the books, email Melissalufele@outlook.com.

Agonis ﬂexuosa: A growing invasive threat in the Eastern Cape A TREE planted for its beauty and resilience is emerging as an unexpected ecological concern in the Eastern Cape. Agonis flexuosa, commonly known as the peppermint tree, has long been admired for its weeping branches and distinctive minty scent. Environmental specialists are raising the alarm as this popular ornamental species shows increasing signs of becoming invasive. Native to Western Australia, the peppermint tree was introduced to South Africa largely for landscaping in coastal towns. Its ability to withstand strong winds, sandy soils and harsh coastal conditions made it a favourite among gardeners and municipalities. However, recent reports suggest the species is spreading beyond planted areas and establishing itself in natural habitats. Which factors contribute to the invasiveness of Agonis flexuosa in South Africa? Recent observations and ecological assessments indicate that Agonis flexuosa can outcompete indigenous vegetation under favourable conditions. The concern arises as A. flexuosa produces large numbers of tiny, lightweight seeds that disperse easily by wind and water. These seeds germinate rapidly, especially in disturbed environments such as road verges, riverbanks and vacant plots. Once established, the trees create dense shade that suppresses indigenous plant growth, altering the structure of local ecosystems.

From left to right, Agonis flexuosa close up of leaves, flowers and whole plant. There are also concerns about the species’ potential impact on already strained water systems. As the Eastern Cape experiences increasingly warm and dry conditions, hardy non-native species like the peppermint tree may gain a competitive advantage over native vegetation. Although the species is not yet classified among South Africa’s major invasive trees, experts caution that this early stage is the critical

window for action. “The warning signs are here,” conservationists say. “If we intervene now, we can prevent another large-scale invasion like what we’ve seen with other Australian species.” The case of Agonis flexuosa in the Eastern Cape is a reminder that even well-intentioned ornamental plantings can have long-term ecological consequences. By acting early, communities can protect our

PHOTOS: SUPPLIED

natural biodiversity and prevent another large-scale invasion like those caused by other Australian introductions in the past. Residents and landowners are encouraged to report peppermint tree sightings in natural areas and authorities are also monitoring sites where the tree currently appears to be naturalising. Should you see any Agonis flexuosa plants, simply report on one of

the following platforms: Download either the iNaturalist (A Community for Naturalists · iNaturalist), upload digital photos, date and locality of your observation. Alternatively, contact Menzi M. Nxumalo in the East London regional office, 043 726 7492 or WhatsApp any information on 078 188 7844. Email: m.nxumalo@ sanbi.org.za or invasivespecies@sanbi.org.za. - ISSUED BY SANBI EASTERN CAPE

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8 January 2026

Veteran educator named principal of Patensie Primary RAZAAN PLAATJIES GLOWILL Felix, a longtime educator with nearly three decades of experience, has been appointed as the new principal of Patensie Primary School, where he has served as a teacher since 1996.

Glowill Felix.

PHOTOS: SUPPLIED

Felix began his teaching career in 1995 at Chigwell Primary School in Patensie in a temporary position before joining Patensie Primary in January 1996 as a permanent post-level 1 educator. He said that when he first began working as an educator, teachers were required to teach every subject. Felix described his teaching experience as deeply rewarding. "It was and is very fulfilling, exciting and sometimes challenging at the same time, but I really enjoy teaching," said Felix. Education appears to run in Felix's family, with multiple family members pursuing education as a career choice. "All of my aunts and my mother, Gloria, were teachers, so you can basically say it's in my genes. My late grandmother, Eva Bosman, was the one who enrolled me at Dower College in Gqeberha," said Felix. He credits his professional development to mentorship and a willingness to learn. "I like to observe and learn new things. The previous principal of Patensie Primary and surely my biggest mentor, Johannes du Plooy, exposed my administrative side and guided me through the initial phases, which he continues to do today," said Felix. Reflecting on his appointment, he expressed both excitement and gratitude. Felix said that he was excited, but mostly grateful since he has such a huge support base, which includes his wife, Elario, his children, friends and coworkers. Among his most memorable career moments, he highlights both his new appointment and an interesting full-circle experience. "There are a few memorable moments in

From left are Mike Aweries (Circuit Manager for Kouga inland schools) and Glowill Felix (principal at Patensie Primary School). my career, with my promotion to principal standing out. “Seeing some of the children I taught now join me in the education industry as colleagues has also been a highlight," said Felix. Looking ahead, he has a clear vision for the school's future with a focus on growing the school in all areas. "The former principal has done an excel-

lent job in setting a very good foundation. I plan to expand on it through excellence in sport, education and discipline," said Felix. He further praised the school community's dedication. "Commitment and the work ethic of both parents and educators are rare nowadays, and fortunately for me, Patensie still has it," said Felix.

Kouga concludes another outstanding festive season KOUGA Local Municipality Executive Mayor Hattingh Bornman has expressed his heartfelt appreciation to residents and visitors who chose the municipality’s towns as their destination during the festive season. “We extend our deepest gratitude to our residents and tourists from all over the country for choosing our towns as your destination this festive season,” said Mayor Bornman. “We wish everyone a joyful and wonderful new year ahead.” Reflecting on the municipality's journey, Mayor Bornman acknowledged both the progress made and the challenges that lie ahead. “We have come a long way over the last nine years in Kouga, but we also recognise that there is still a lot of work to be done to ensure our residents receive the best services possible.” The Executive Mayor concluded by thanking the community for their continued partnership in developing the area. “Thank you to all our residents who take hands with us in making Kouga a great place to live.”

Brothers Cole (17) and Troy Swanepoel (14) enjoy the last of the school holidays with a game of basketball in Jeffreys Bay.

PHOTO: DENVER SWANEPOEL

Kouga’sIntegratedCommandCentrestrengthenedsafetyforfestiveseason KOUGA Local Municipality’s Integrated Command Centre (ICC) in Humansdorp continues to prove its value as one of the region’s most effective safety and monitoring tools. With 191 live surveillance cameras now feeding directly into the ICC, along with an additional 22 advanced License Plate Recognition (LPR) cameras, the system offers extensive real-time monitoring across key routes, public spaces, and high-risk areas. The recent installation of additional cameras forms part of the municipality’s proactive safety measures to ensure improved

visibility, quicker response times, and enhanced coordination with law enforcement partners. Additionally, the municipality will be adding 30 more cameras to the ICC network soon. Proactive response in action A recent incident once again highlighted the ICC’s efficiency and the commitment of its operators. In the early hours of Friday morning, 5 December at 00:48, ICC officers detected suspicious behaviour on one of the live

camera feeds. They immediately alerted the Safer JBay operational group. Within just eight minutes, by 00:56, Exec Ops reaction officers arrived on the scene and found several weapons in the possession of the individuals involved. The suspects were swiftly and safely escorted away, preventing possible criminal activity. The municipality extended sincere appreciation to the vigilant ICC employees on duty and said that their alertness, quick thinking, and professionalism helped avert

a potentially serious situation and ensured the continued safety of the community. Following this success, the Kouga Local Municipality said that it remains committed to maintaining a safe and secure environment for both residents and holidaymakers. “The Integrated Command Centre will continue to serve as the central nerve centre for surveillance, coordination, and rapid response, ensuring that Kouga stays a safe place to live, work, and enjoy during holiday periods and beyond,” the municipality stated.

8 January 2026

NUUS | NEWS

KougaExpress 5

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NEWS | NUUS

8 January 2026

KOUGA KOLLIG:

Oud-Langklower se Fênsie Muis verower kinderharte landswyd ELLEN HANCKE ’n MUIS uit die Langkloof wat soms op Jeffreysbaai gekuier het, het onlangs ook ’n draai op nasionale televisie gemaak. Die skeppende moeder van “Fênsie Muis” is ’n oud-Langklower wat ook vele spore in Jeffreysbaai se strandsand getrap het. Vir Nita Gerber-Heyns, was haar jeugjare op Braamrivier in die Langkloof, kosbare jare. Sy is op Joubertina gebore en het in die Kougaberge grootgeword. Dit is ook hier waar sy met haar ses broers en ouers, baie na aan die natuur geleef het. “Ek was kleintyd veral gek daaroor om met voëltjies en veldmuise te speel.” Omdat sy die enigste dogter was, het sy dikwels tyd in grootmense se geselskap deurgebring en baie wyshede te hore gekom. Na skool wou sy eers verpleging as beroep kies, maar toe wen onderwys en gaan studeer sy aan die Onderwyskollege op Oudsthoorn. Haar eerste onderwyspos was op Calitzdorp. Nadat sy met Dirk Heyns getroud is, het hulle ’n saamgestelde gesin van vier kinders ryker geword. Tydens haar rusperiode uit die onderwys, het Nita ontpop as ’n bobaas koekiebakster en appelkooslikeurstoker. Hierna word sy ’n raakvatmaker van interessante juweliersware wat sy vir 16 jaar lank by markte verkoop het. Hierna volg sy ’n kursus in onder-

wysbestuur en lok dit haar terug na die onderwys. Sy en haar man het ook vele oorsese reise na ondermeer Europa, Griekeland (en Santorini en Mykonos), Vietnam, Thailand en Kambodja, en daarna na haar aftrede in 2018, het hulle Noord-Indië en Singapoer besoek en in 2023 is hulle na Suid-Indië en Dubai. Nita vertel dat Fênsie Muis seker al toentertyd in die Kougaberge in haar verbeeldingswêreld nesgeskrop het. Nita het ondermeer met haar Bootjie-storieprojek leerders gehelp om ’n bootjie te vou, hul kwaai woorde daarin te sit en dit dan te laat wegvaar. Sy het ook ’n rooi posbus gehad waarin kinders hul briefies met hul probleme kon pos. Nita se kollegas het altyd groot bewondering vir haar oorspronklike onderrigmetodes gehad. Haar muisstories het egter op ’n dag by die Rooihuiskraal Laerskool begin. Die kinders was duidelik nie lus vir Wiskunde doen nie. En ’n dogtertjie vra toe of juffrou nie liewer vir hulle ’n storie wil vertel nie. “Ek het sommer so uit die vuis uit, ’n muisstorie opgemaak, maar mettertyd besluit om lewenslesse in my stories te verweef.” En so is Fênsie Muis gebore. Sy moes natuurlik later ook ’n familie kry en so het Boetiemuis, Mammamuis en Pappamuis ook begin figureer. “Om aktuele en sosiale probleme via verbeeldingrykheid aan te spreek, is nie altyd maklik nie. “En omdat daar so baie gebroke gesinne is, het ek besluit om ook

die baie vrae rondom egskeidings aan te raak. En hiervoor het ek die Kat-karakter dan ook as ’n belangrike rolspeler sy plek laat inneem,” vertel sy. “Ek het egter nooit werklik genoeg tyd gehad om my droom om ’n skrywer te word, te laat realiseer nie.” “Na my aftrede kon ek in 2020 aan die werk spring om vir Fênsie Muis se avonture op papier te neem.” Nita vertel dat sy geen erg het aan dreigemente en straf nie. Sy glo dat leerkragte en ouers veel meer tydens probleemoplossings met ’n sagte benadering kan bereik. Fênsie Muis se drukkersgeboorte het einde 2024 finaliteit begin aanneem. Nadat sy vroeër vanjaar op die joernaalprogram Kwêla was, het die gewildheid van Fênsie Muis toegeneem! “Ek was baie verras, maar ook baie dankbaar om op hierdie manier uit te vind dat ons kinders nog Afrikaans wil lees.” En ja, daar is sommer baie druk op Nita om skouer aan die wiel te sit met verdere avonture van haar muisbaba. Nadat sy en haar man onlangs op ’n uitgebreide toer na Marokko was, is dit geensins onwaarskynlik dat Nita in die nuwe jaar ’n kop vol muisneste gaan hê nie! Jeffreysbaai bly egter die gesin se gunsteling vakansiebestemming. En wie weet, dalk gaan Fênsie Muis nog in ’n tas inkruip, om heerlike internasionale- en Kouga-avonture te beleef.

Oud-Langklower Nita Gerber-Heyns, sit hier met ’n paar boeke van haar debuut as skrywer van die karaktertjie Fênsie Muis. FOTO: VERSKAF

Tropika JBay competition sees largest participation yet MARCIA BOYENS THE Jeffreys Bay beachfront hosted the Tropika Mr & Miss JBay Summer Fun competition this past New Year’s Eve, marking the end of the holiday season. The event brought together families and visitors at the town’s main beach area.

Clover Tropika served as the title sponsor for the competition, providing product samples and merchandise to attendees. Organised by Ace Models Kouga, the 2025 event recorded its largest participation to date, with over 100 entries across various age categories. “We were pleased with the com-

munity response this year,” said Charne Scorgie, event organiser. “The increase in entries, particularly from local families, shows there’s genuine interest in this type of community event during the holiday period.” The competition was open to participants from age four onwards, with 14 winners selected

Local organisation spreads joy to patients

across seven age categories — seven male and seven female representatives for Jeffreys Bay. The event was supported through partnerships with Jeffreys Bay Tourism, Kouga Municipality, and LC Events, whilst Ace Models Kouga handled operational management. Clover Tropika’s sponsorship covered the main

competition elements and prizes. Event photographs have been posted on social media platforms, with complete casting and finale albums by Red Creative Collaboration available on Facebook. The organisers acknowledged all participants and thanked Tropika for their sponsorship of the annual summer competition.

NBPAM hosts Christmas celebration for seniors <UNICODE-WIN> <vsn:19.3> <pstyle:*BOX_STYLE*>

Members from the Humansdorp-based non-profit organisation, Ikhaya Labakhaya, recently visited the local PZ Meyer TB Hospital, where they generously handed out gifts to the patients who spent the December holiday period in hospital. From left are Xolani Woni (Ikhaya Labakhaya), Rachel Blaauw, Jacqueline Williams, Jason Fillis and Sindiswa Witbooi (Ikhaya Labakhaya). PHOTO: SUPPLIED

The Nation Builders Prophetic Apostolic Movement (NBPAM), a service centre for senior citizens in Humansdorp, hosted a wonderful Christmas celebration for their members and their families. Kouga Executive Mayor, Hattingh Bornman, was the guest speaker at the event. The late Prophet Nicolette Goliath, who was one of the pioneers and founders of NBPAM, was also remembered and celebrated. Local décor company, Rustic Creations Decor and Events, generously decorated the venue and donated money towards the success of the event. From left are Imelda Felix (chairperson of NBPAM), Piet Goeda, Heinronicha Ketteldas and Ashwell Goliath (executive director, funder and project manager of NBPAM). PHOTO: SUPPLIED

8 January 2026

GEKLASSIFISEERD | CLASSIFIEDS BOEDELS: LIKWIDASIE EN DISTRIBUSIE

BOEDELKENNISGEWINGS BOEDELS: KREDITEURE EN DEBITEURE

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KREDITEURE IN BESTORWE BOEDEL Boedel wyle Jozef Louis Botma, Identiteitsnommer: 420927 5049 08 1, gebore 27 September 1942, Oorlede op 29 Oktober 2025, wie getroud was Binne Gemeenskap van Goed met Anitha Maria Botma, Identiteitsnommer: 460318 0023 08 4 woonagtig 76 Lifestyle Estates, Jeffreysbaai, Provinsie Oos-Kaap, Meesterskantoor Port Elizabeth. Boedelnr.: 6623/2025. Alle persone met eise teen die bogemelde boedel moet dit binne 30 dae vanaf datum van publikasie hiervan by die betrokke Eksekuteur indien. SLABBERT PROKUREURS Scheldestraat 21 Jeffreysbaai 6330 E p o s : c a r i k e @slabbertattorneys.co.za Tel. 042 293 4271

CREDITORS IN DECEASED ESTATE Estate Late Petrus Sandy Cele, Identity Number: 690514 5752 08 9, born on 14 May 1969, deceased on 22 May 2025, who was married In Community of Property to Ngwanaphodi Ivy Cele, Identity Number: 760824 0507 08 0, of 43 Rolihlahla Mandela Street, Pellsrus, Jeffreys Bay, Eastern Cape Province. Master's Office: Port Elizabeth. Estate Number: 6766/2025. All persons having claims a g a i n s t t h e above-mentioned estate are required to lodge such claims with the appointed Executor within 30 days from the date of publication hereof.

KREDITEURE IN BESTORWE BOEDEL Boedel wyle Susanna Saayman, Identiteitsnommer: 380426 0042 08 2, gebore 26 April 1938, Oorlede op 3 November 2025, wie getroud was Binne Gemeenskap van Goed met Johannes Eusebius Saayman, identiteitsnommer: 390215 5005 08 9 van Amala Versorgingsoord, Oribistraat, Jeffreysbaai, Provinsie Oos-Kaap, Meesterskantoor Port Elizabeth. Boedelnr.: 6611/2025. Alle persone met eise teen die bogemelde boedel moet dit binne 30 dae vanaf datum van publikasie hiervan by die betrokke Eksekuteur indien.

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LIKWIDASIE- EN DISTRIBUSIEREKENING IN BESTORWE BOEDEL WAT TER INSAE Lê Boedel wyle MARIA BRIGITTE FERREIRA AMARAL GOVE, Identiteitsnommer: 451013 0143 08 8, gebore 13 Oktober 1945 en oorlede 16 Junie 2025 , 'n Weduwee van 10 Oribistraat, Jeffreysbaai, Oos-Kaap. Boedelnr. 3510/2025.

Kennis geskied hiermee, kragtens Artikel 35(5) van die Wet op die Administrasie van Boedels, nr.66 van 1965, dat afskrifte van die Eerste en Finale Likwidasie- en SLABBERT ATTORNEYS SLABBERT PROKUREURS Distribusierekening in die 21 Schelde Street Scheldestraat 21 bogemelde boedel vir alle Jeffreys Bay Jeffreysbaai belanghebbendes ter insae 6330 6330 sal lê vir 'n tydperk van 21 E m a i l : c a r i k e E p o s : c a r i k e dae vanaf datum van @slabbertattorneys.co.za @slabbertattorneys.co.za publikasie hiervan in die Tel: 042 293 4271 Tel. 042 293 4271 kantoor van die Meester van die Hooggeregshof, Port Elizabeth en Landdros, EP Media en Novus Media kan nie Humansdorp.

bevestig of enige van die geadverteerde dienste of produkte veilig is vir gebruik of die verlangde uitwerking of resultaat sal hê nie. Lesers word gewaarsku om die adverteerder se getuigskrifte deeglik te oorweeg en na te gaan. EP Media en Novus Media aanvaar hoegenaamd geen aanspreeklikheid ten opsigte van enige van die geadverteerde dienste of goedere nie.

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Indien geen beswaar daarteen gedurende die spesifieke tydperk by die betrokke Meester ingedien word nie, gaan die eksekuteur voort met betalings ooreenkomstig die rekeninge. SLABBERT PROKUREURS Scheldestraat 21 JEFFREYSBAAI 6330 E p o s : c a r i k e @slabbertattorneys.co.za Tel.: 042 293 4271

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8 KougaExpress

NEWS | NUUS

8 January 2026

Record crowds ﬂock to sold-out touch rugby tournament THE USN Jeffreys Bay Touchies Tournament 2025 drew record crowds to the coastal town’s main beach on Boxing Day, with organisers celebrating a sold-out event that attracted teams from across South Africa. The tournament, which saw entries sell out within 11 hours of opening on 1 December, featured 38 teams competing across men’s and women’s divisions, with 16 teams remaining on standby. “The response was absolutely phenomenal,” said event organiser Christo Botha. “When we sold out in 11 hours with 16 teams on standby, we knew this was going to be something special.” Teams travelled from Gqeberha, Hankey, Patensie, Thornhill, Humansdorp, Joubertina, Pretoria, and Brakpan to compete in the two-

day tournament that began with setup at 05:00 on a cloudy Boxing Day morning. The day commenced with national anthems echoing across the ocean at 07:50, followed by a minute’s silence for Beryl Speelman, chairperson of the Humansdorp Protea Angels Rugby Team, who passed away during the week. “Having 304 players singing the national anthem by the ocean was a very special moment,” Botha reflected. “You could see the excitement was clearly visible as we prepared for what turned out to be super-fast touchies on our two fields.” Local support and celebrity appearances Sixteen local teams received fully sublimated vests at registration thanks to support from MetroFibre and Kouga Municipality. The tournament drew several notable attendees, including Springbok legend Morné Steyn, who came to support his two sons competing in the event, and Ethan Adams. The crowd favourite proved to be Junior Chiefs, an U13 team from Pellsrus whose dynamic play earned them a full kit sponsorship worth R4,000 from 2BrothersPrinting for the 2026 event. “The Junior Chiefs had the crowd on their feet with hot steppers all over the field,” said Botha. “Their energy and skill really captured everyone’s attention.” Thrilling ﬁnals and results The women’s final saw Tagfive dominate the Humansdorp Protea Angels 2-0, with Raquel Isaacs scoring the final try. The social league final proved a nail-biter, with Abiezer Construction Junior Fijians edging out The Falcons 4-3. However, the highlight was the men’s final, which required a golden try in extra time before Abiezer Construction Flying Fijians defeated Chiefs 4-3 to claim the title. A legends match between Kouga Municipality Legends and JBay Rugby Club Legends, ref-

Voortrekkers hou Geloftekamp VOORTREKKERS uit Gauteng en die Noord-, Wes- en Oos-Kaap het hulle plek ingeneem op 'n pad wat veel meer as net kilometers en dorpe omvat het tydens die Geloftekamp in Desember. Dit was 'n reis deur die geskiedenis van geloof, opoffering en volharding — 'n herbesoek aan die spore van die trekleiers van die Groot Trek, die lyding en moed tydens die Anglo-Boereoorloë, die beproewings van die Eerste en Tweede Wêreldoorloë, en die blywende nalatenskap van die 1820-Setlaars. Die toer het op 11 Desember in Gqeberha begin en verder geneem deur Kariega, Jansenville, Graaff-Reinet, Bedford, Adelaide, KwaMaqoma, Makhanda, Bathurst, Alexandria en Boknes. By elke museum en monument is daar doelbewus stilgestaan. Elke aand is afgesluit met die voorlees van die Gelofte van 1838. Hierdie oomblikke is verder verdiep deur 'n aangrypende reis deur F.A. Venter se Geknelde Land. Die simboliese stap oor die spore by die Katrivier en Groot Visrivier, soos die Dreyer-gesin dit in die verhaal beleef, het die gebeure van jare gelede tasbaar en lewendig gemaak. Die kamp is op 16 Desember afgesluit by die Karel Landman Monument, waar die groep aangesluit het by die Oos-Kaap Voortrekkers vir die Geloftedagvieringe.

The USN Jeffreys Bay Touchies Tournament 2025 featured 38 teams competing across men’s and women’s divisions, with 16 teams remaining on standby. PHOTOS: SUPPLIED ereed by Mayor Hattingh Bornman, ended in a 2-2 draw and was deemed the crowd’s game of the tournament, featuring a spectacular try by Dawie de Jager. Community recognition The prize-giving ceremony at Je Vista Social Café recognised outstanding performers, with Raquel Isaacs named women’s player of the tournament, Alex Carolus taking men’s player honours, and Dawie de Jager earning legends player of the game. Each received Casio G-Shock watches and Core Silicone rings sponsored by Gabriel Jewellers. Christian Ellis was recognised as referee of the tournament, whilst Stormforce donated rugby balls to Pellsrus Primary School and Jef-

freys Bay Rugby Club. “We’re committed to giving back to the local community,” explained Botha. “This tournament isn’t just about the competition - it’s about supporting rugby development in our area.” The event concluded with an after-party at Je Vista, with organisers already planning for next year’s tournament. “Thanks to all our sponsors, especially USN and Kouga Municipality, we’ve cemented this as the best touchies event in South Africa,” Botha concluded. “The support has been incredible, and we’re already looking forward to 2026.” All tournament pictures and videos are available on the 1Touch Facebook page.

SPAR Kirkwood Wildsfees to return to SSK THE SPAR Kirkwood Wildsfees has announced that the 2026 festival will once again take place at its new home, Sentraal-Suid Koöperasie (SSK), formerly known as The Co-Op. “After the success of the 2025 SPAR Kirkwood Wildsfees at our new venue, we are extremely excited to confirm that SSK will once again host the festival in 2026,” said festival director Jenni Honsbein. Located in the heart of Nqweba (formerly known as Kirkwood), the venue proved to be a perfect fit for the Wildsfees, offering ample space, accessibility and a welcoming atmosphere for festivalgoers. “We are extremely grateful to SSK, whose headquarters are based in Swellendam, for making their Kirkwood grounds available to us once again,” Honsbein added. “Festivalgoers who have already booked accommodation in town will be pleased to know that,

just like before, the venue is within walking distance — making it easy and convenient to enjoy the full Wildsfees experience.” “As a cooperative, SSK places great value on being actively involved in the communities where we operate. Our members are the foundation of our organisation, and supporting the areas in which they live and work is an essential part of who we are. We are proud to once again be part of the SPAR Kirkwood Wildsfees and look forward to the positive impact the 2026 festival will have in showcasing our vibrant agricultural region to visitors,” said Francois Swanepoel, CEO at SSK. The 23rd SPAR Kirkwood Wildsfees will take place from Friday, 26 June to Sunday, 28 June, 2026. For more information, visit www.wildsfees. co.za or follow the SPAR Kirkwood Wildsfees on social media for updates.

Van links is Stiaan Steyn, Pieter Jacobs (Gebiedsleier: Die Voortrekkers Oos-Kaap) en Joshua Maritz. FOTO’S: VERSKAF

The SPAR Kirkwood Wildsfees venue SSK.

PHOTO: YANDRE TIBSHRAENY

DIARY | DAGBOEK Stiaan Steyn en Joshua Maritz by die Magrietha Prinsloo ossewa by die Hoërskool Cillié in Gqeberha wat in 1938 gebruik is tydens die eeufees vieringe van die Groot Trek.

Milkwood Saturday Market: Drive in and browse through our local, friendly market under the milkwood trees, on 10 January from 09:00 to 13:00 (weather permitting). They are located on the GLA road next to the Fountains Mall. Homemade crafts, clothing, homemade goods, fresh vegetables, ﬂowers, honey, braai goods, biltong,farm fresh meat,good food and more are sold.Entry is free. The market will also take place on 31 January. Aston Bay Market: Don't miss the market at the Aston

Bay Community Hall on 31 January from 09:00 to 15:00. Jeffreys Bay Car Boot Sale: Join the bargain hunt in Da Gama Road, opposite the caravan park, from 08:00 to 13:00 on 31 January. The entrance is at 2 Petunia Street. Contact Corine at 082 922 2260. Send your Diary entries to kougaexpress@novusmedia.co.za. The deadline for entries is on Tuesdays at 14:00. Entries may be in English or Afrikaans.