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WESTLAKE RIVER AND ITS TRIBUTARY STREAMS GET A MAKEOVER The Zandvlei Catchment Management Forum (CMF), one of four CMFs that received grant funding from the City’s Water and Sanitation Directorate, has completed a range of restoration work along the Westlake River and its tributary streams in Orchard Village, Lakeside. In the image, some members of the Zandvlei CMF undertook extensive clearing of invasive alien vegetation along the Westlake River to improve water flow and restore the river environment. Read more on page 6. PHOTO: SUPPLIED
LIFTING THE COMMUNITY ONE COFFEE AT A TIME
O Cafe abuzz for Oasis KEANAN HARMSE
a legacy of empowerment and economic opportunities for the disadvantaged.
KEANAN.HARMSE@NOVUSMEDIA.CO.ZA
F
rom being homeless on the streets to joining a team of talented chefs in a gleaming kitchen, Yaseen Damon and Marwan Zimri from Grassy Park and Lotus River are hoping to leave behind
The pair are set to embark on their journey at a new community cafe, The O Cafe, set to launch later this month (October). The establishment is the brainchild of co-founder and manager Anthea Martinus and she hopes it would champion transformation and resilience. The new coffee spot aims to become a vibrant
social enterprise that sustains its parent organisation, Oasis Reach For Your Dreams, while directly empowering individuals on their journeys to recovery from addiction. Oasis is a Schaapkraal-based non-profit organisation (NPO) founded in 2000 that uses sports, specifically football and netball, to empower youth and marginalised communities. TO PAGE 3
A social enterprise designed to pour resources back Anthea Martinus
2 NEWS
PEOPLE’SPOST | GrassyPark|Retreat Tuesday, 6 October 2026
Equipped for fire season
T
he City of Cape Town’s Fire and Rescue Service has unveiled its summer-firefighting readiness plan, with over R25 million being spent on vehicles, equipment and station upgrades.
People’s Post is published by WP Media, a subsidiary of Novus Media.
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The display at Goodwood Fire Station on Wednesday 30 September showcased the existing fleet of specialised vehicles, including a flatbed heavy-duty cargo vehicle with a 32-ton crane capacity. It also included two 4x4 water tankers with a 5 000-litre capacity, three 6x6 tankers with a 10 500-litre capacity, four 4x4 heavy-duty pumper firefighting vehicles, four 4x4 wildland firefighting vehicles and three off-road vehicles to support incident management teams. Eleven newly acquired medium wildland firefighting 4x4 vehicles with a 1 500-litre capacity have been added to the fleet. The vehicles can respond swiftly and reach difficult sandy and mountainous terrain to fight fires. Two further 4x4 medium wildland firefighting vehicles and a heavy-duty 44-metre hydraulic platform have been procured for delivery in December. All vehicles are well maintained, serviced and tested, ensuring operational readiness at any given time. MORE BOOTS ON THE GROUND
( 021 910 6504
Each year the Fire and Rescue
Service employs a group of wildland firefighters on a contract to bolster resources over the warmer months when the risk of veld fires is higher. In July this year, 35 new junior firefighters joined the ranks after successfully completing the Fire Cadet training programme. In the most recent financial year, 2025-’26, the service attended to 30 513 incidents. R25 MILLION IN INVESTMENTS
This financial year the Fire and Rescue Service will spend more than R25 million on resource investments. This includes: R12 million in building improvements to Brooklyn and Constantia fire stations R5,75 million on additional specialised vehicles R5 million on minor building and fencing upgrades R3 million on the initial works at a new fire station in Langa R1,6 million on replacing firefighting equipment JP Smith, Mayco member for safety and security, said reducing the risk of fires is everyone’s responsibility. “Our firemen and women are highly trained and have built on the reputation of being well prepared with a rapid response time in difficult situations. They have proven to be the best in South Africa, and we are extremely proud to be able to support them with high-end
. . . . .
City of Cape Town firefighters are ready for the summer fire season. PHOTO: SUPPLIED
CITY FIRE AND RESCUE PERSONNEL “THE BEST IN SOUTH AFRICA” technology and equipment. “As we head towards what will be a long summer with high winds and temperatures, let us support our fire service when they get called out to fight a fire.” In case of a fire emergency, the public is reminded to phone the City’s Public Emergency Communication Centre on 021 480 7700 from a cellphone.
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The City’s Fire and Rescue is preparing to fight fires with new vehicles, equipment and station upgrades.
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Assault, torture most complaints against police
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The Independent Police Investigative Directorate (IPID) registered 5 259 cases of police misconduct during the 2025/26 financial year, including 332 cases linked to gender-based violence and femicide (GBVF). Acting police minister Firoz Cachalia said effective policing depends on the public trusting the police and believing that they operate legitimately. Cachalia made the remarks while tabling IPID’s 2025/26 Annual Report in the National Assembly on Wednesday 30 September. Assault and torture remained the biggest drivers of complaints, accounting for 3 468 cases. This was followed by 669 cases involving the discharge of an official firearm and 464 deaths as a result of police action. Lizzy Suping, IPID spokesperson, said the Western Cape recorded the highest number of cases with 905, followed by Gauteng with 898, KwaZulu-Natal (KZN) with 722 and the Eastern Cape with 717. The recorded GBVF cases included 122
referrals, mainly relating to domestic violence, 116 cases of rape allegedly committed by police officers, 58 cases of assault and torture, 24 murders and 10 cases involving the discharge of an official firearm. According to Suping, KwaZulu Natal recorded the highest number of GBVF cases at 60, followed by Gauteng with 58, the Free State with 52 and the Eastern and Northern Cape with 27 cases each. Kimberley in the Northern Cape and Marianhill in KZN recorded the highest number of GBVF cases among individual police stations, with seven each. Madadeni, which is in KZN, recorded six, while Phoenix, also in KwaZulu-Natal, Humewood in the Eastern Cape and Welkom in the Free State each recorded five. IPID also recorded an increase in cases of rape allegedly committed by police officers, rising from 95 in 2024/25 to 116 in 2025/26. Of the 116 cases, 44 involved off-duty police officers, while 72 involved officers who were on
duty. Suping said IPID secured 84 criminal convictions during the year under review, almost double the 43 convictions recorded in the previous year. A total of 26 of the convictions were related to GBVF cases, while sentences ranged from several months in prison to life imprisonment. She said IPID investigators also made 281 arrests for various offences during the year. By 31 March this year, 994 cases had been enrolled in various courts following IPID recommendations to the National Prosecuting Authority (NPA) to institute criminal proceedings against police officers. A total of 277 disciplinary recommendations had also been concluded by the police, with sanctions ranging from written warnings to dismissal from the police service. Suping said IPID investigations are guided by the principles of independence, thoroughness, accountability, and the quality and integrity of its work.
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The year taught me life can change in an instant
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If there is one thing this year has taught me, it’s how things can change in an instant. One moment you’re at the beginning of a new year, filled with hopes, dreams and plans for what lies ahead, and the next, you’re seven months into the year wondering where the time went and how you ended up exactly where you are. Life has a strange way of reminding us that, despite how carefully we plan, very little is actually within our control. At the beginning of the year, many of us probably had a picture in our minds of what this year would look like. Perhaps it included financial stability, travel, per-
sonal growth or simply becoming a better version of ourselves. We make plans because plans give us something to look forward to. They make the future feel predictable. But life does not always follow the script we write for it. Sometimes, an opportunity comes along that changes everything. Sometimes, a door closes when we were convinced it would remain open. And sometimes, circumstances change so quickly that we barely have time to process what has happened before we are expected to keep moving. That unpredictability can be frightening. There are moments when you can feel as though you are falling behind because your life does not look the way you imagined it would by this point. We compare our reality with the plans we made at the beginning of the year and wonder
what went wrong. But perhaps nothing went wrong. Perhaps life simply changed direction. I have come to realise that not every unexpected change is a setback. Some changes force us to grow in ways we would never have chosen for ourselves. They introduce us to people we would never have met; push us towards opportunities we never considered and teach us lessons we may not have learned if everything had gone according to plan. That does not mean we have to pretend that change is always easy. It isn’t. There are changes that hurt. There are disappointments that take time to accept. There are moments when all you can do is acknowledge that something did not work out the way you hoped it would. And that is okay. Perhaps the lesson is not to stop
making plans, but to hold them a little more loosely. To dream but leave room for life to surprise us. To work towards our goals while understanding that the road to getting there may look completely different from what we imagined. Seven months can feel like a lifetime when you look back at everything that has happened. Yet there are still months ahead. And if this year has taught me anything, it is that life can change in an instant. So instead of worrying too much about whether everything is going according to plan, perhaps we should learn to appreciate where we are, trust God through the uncertainty and remain open to what comes next. Because sometimes, the life we end up living is far different from the one we planned. And sometimes, that is where the real story begins.
NEWS 3
PEOPLE’SPOST | GrassyPark|Retreat Tuesday, 6 October 2026
FROM PAGE 1
They provide life skills training, violence prevention programmes, and community upliftment to at-risk youth. Oasis recently gave a group of local young men hailing from Lotus River, Grassy Park, Ottery and Phumlani Village an opportunity to qualify to compete and represent the national team on foreign soil for next year’s Homeless World Cup (“From the streets to Mexico City”, People’s Post, 15 September). Oasis relies heavily on external funding, and therefore the team actively sought innovative ways to become self-sustainable, Martinus said. “This inspired the birth of the O Cafe—a social enterprise designed to pour resources back into the organisation so our essential community work can continue. Beyond sustainability, the cafe serves as a vital training ground, providing our facility’s residents with valuable hands-on skills and developmental opportunities in the food and hospitality industry,” she said. As a self-sustaining enterprise, all monies generated at the venue pour directly back into Oasis. This secures the critical funding required to keep primary rehabilitation and support programmes running. The cafe’s furniture, tables and chairs were refurbished by some of the Oasis members, she added. “We’ve done lots of renovations with the help of our Oasis residents. This is their own handiwork and there was lots of woodwork that was done. There are tables that they’ve made themselves and a coffee station that they’ve built and some of the residents are part of the kitchen staff and learning about the food industry and how to bake bread,” she said. Today, the cafe serves as a live training ground for residents in the rehabilitation programme. By working directly on the floor as front-ofhouse staff or behind the scenes as kitchen hands, residents gain invaluable, real-world hospitality experience. Damon says he spent 25 years in the woodwork industry. However, working on the renovations at the O Cafe was a completely new experience for him. “I had never done anything quite like this before—crafting tables from scratch, brainstorming ideas for the coffee station and counter, and watching them transform into a beautiful finished product. We worked entirely with second-hand wood, taking old materials and breathing new life into them. It reminds me of our own journeys when we first arrived at Oasis. We came in feeling broken, but step by step, we are becoming who we were always meant to be,” he said. Zimri is currently training as a kitchen hand at the O Cafe. “This has been an incredible opportunity for me. When I was younger, I always dreamed of working in the food industry, but over time, it became a forgotten dream. Having this opportunity now feels like a true blessing. It is exciting to learn how to work with food, taking simple ingredients and transforming them into something everyone can enjoy,” he said. Robin Brophy is tackling the role of Head Chef at the O Cafe after successfully completing her drug rehabilitation programme and remaining deeply committed to my recovery. She transitioned from a client to a staff member. “While I bring 22 years of experience in the food industry—often navigating extremely high-pressure kitchens—the O Cafe offers a far more grounded environment. This calmer space allows me to support my ongoing recovery by practising patience, mindfulness, and dedicating my time to a meaningful purpose. I have finally found my true calling: giving back to my community through my passion for food,” she said. Moving forward, her goal is to reach out to their community to train, mentor, and equip individuals with the skills they need to become job-ready for the hospitality industry. The cafe is set to launch on Saturday 10 October.
Four caught red handed, arrested L
aw enforcement officers apprehended four suspects during two separate early-morning incidents in Pelican Park and Ottery on Friday 2 October.
At approximately 00:15, a member of the public alerted patrolling officers in Pelican Park to five suspects breaking into a car. Officers quickly intercepted the suspects’ white getaway vehicle in Oystercatcher Road. Although the five men attempted to flee on foot in different directions, officers caught and detained three of them. Authorities transported the trio to Grassy Park Police Station, charging them with theft out of a motor vehicle after recovering a stolen car radio, tape, and car battery. Later, at around 04:00 that morning, patrolling officers caught another suspect digging a trench under the Ottery Road bridge. The man attempted to flee but officers quickly arrested him for stealing electricity cables. Law enforcement officers also confiscated a spade used to dig the trench at the scene.
The car radio and tape and a car battery that was recovered. PHOTO: SUPPLIED
[POLICE] CONFISCATED A SPADE USED TO DIG THE TRENCH TO STEAL ELECTRICIY CABLES
180 in Chess@Libraries tournament Approximately 180 young players from about 40 libraries across Cape Town faced off in a thrilling finale at Kenilworth Racecourse on Thursday 1 October for the City’s annual Chess@Libraries Tournament. The longstanding initiative has evolved from a recreational programme into a major community development pathway linking chess to STEM learning. Following months of local eliminations, finalists competed in two sections. Experienced Section
(Chess SA rated): first Lutho Mfazwe, Delft Library; second Tezihano Mnyasta, Parow Library; third Prince Ngombo, Parow Library; Best Female Player Imikhitha Joya, Crossroads Library. Developmental Section: first Banele Mbatha, Cape Town Central Library; second Tom Lunga, Masiphumelele Library. Mayco member for community services and health, Francine Higham praised chess for building problem-solving, critical thinking and memory.
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R1799 The O Cafe hopes to empower the members at the Schaapkraal-based non-profit organisation Oasis Reach For Your Dreams, and the local community. PHOTO: SUPPLIED
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4 NEWS
PEOPLE’SPOST | GrassyPark|Retreat Tuesday, 6 October 2026
27 181 pets surrendered to SPCA KEANAN HARMSE et surrenders across greater Cape Town have skyrocketed by 43,7%, prompting the Cape of Good Hope SPCA in Grassy Park to launch an aggressive, proactive campaign targeting 10 000 animal sterilisations by the end of this year.
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The alarming spike in surrenders forms part of a broader crisis detailed in the organisation’s 2025-’26 Impact Report, according to SPCA spokesperson, Belinda Abraham. The SPCA is an independent, non-profit organisation (NPO) based in Grassy Park serving greater Cape Town. It operates the Cape Metropole’s only round the clock animal welfare Inspectorate, an animal hospital providing affordable veterinary care, mobile community clinics, and adoption and pound services. Over the past financial year, the total number of stray, surrendered, and confiscated animals entering the SPCA’s care surged by 12,3% to 27 181 animals. Compounding this strain, the SPCA Animal Hospital experienced a staggering 51,9% increase in patient volume, treating 53 686 owner-brought pets compared to 35 332 the previous year, as local households buckled under severe economic pressure. “When 27 181 animals arrive at our doors, becoming better at taking animals in cannot be the answer,” stated SPCA chief executive officer (CEO) Mqabuko Moyo Ndukwana. “We have to employ an upstream strategy to change the conditions that will determine how many need us tomorrow.” In response, and ahead of World Animal Day marked on Sunday 4 October, the SPCA officially commissioned a brand-new, customised animal transport vehicle during a mass outreach event in Elsies River.
The specialised vehicle features a 20-animal capacity and is purpose-built to break down transport and distance barriers by safely moving pets from vulnerable areas to the SPCA Animal Hospital for free surgeries, vaccinations, and microchipping before returning them home. People’s Post spoke to Abraham who unpacked their challenges when it comes to the demand of animals they care for and advocated for sterilisations as a means to reducing the risk of diseases being spread to pets and families. “Sterilisations and vaccinations can help families and their pets by preventing life threatening illnesses such as parvovirus,” she explained. Parvovirus is a family of small, highly contagious viruses that infect animals and humans, most commonly known as a severe, life-threatening intestinal illness in dogs. The strategy—dubbed Beyond Rescue—aims to eliminate what researchers call “veterinary care deserts”, where cost and geographic isolation prevent animals from receiving basic medical care. The South African Veterinary Council notes that the vast majority of South Africans cannot afford private veterinary fees, leaving non-profit organisations (NPOs)to fill the gap. The campaign in Elsies River immediately validated the strategy. Nearly 100 residents lined up with their pets, resulting in 65 animals receiving parasite control and rabies vaccinations, while 21 animals were booked and transported for immediate sterilisation. The SPCA has already performed nearly 6 500 sterilisations this year—up from 7 053 across the entire previous financial year—leaving the team on track to hit its 10 000-operation milestone with three months remaining in the calendar year. To ensure long-term efficacy, the SPCA has partnered with United Kingdom (UK) based
The Cape of Good Hope SPCA specialised vehicle features a 20-animal capacity and is purpose-built to break down transport and distance barriers by safely moving pets from vulnerable areas to the SPCA Animal Hospital for free surgeries, vaccinations, and microchipping before returning them home. PHOTOS: SUPPLIED
animal welfare charity Battersea to fund South Africa’s first-of-its-kind behavioural research programme. The study will investigate why animal care breaks down in specific communities and identify exactly which interventions promote lasting human behavioural changes. Reflecting on the international theme for World Animal Day 2026, “See the World
Through Their Eyes,” Ndukwana emphasised that long-term animal welfare relies entirely on systemic infrastructure changes. “We cannot simply remove animals and expect the conditions that produced them to disappear,” Ndukwana concluded. "We have to make responsible choices possible, make veterinary care reachable, and reduce unwanted breeding at its source.”
BEYOND RESCUE PLAN — TO ELIMINATE “VETERINARY CARE DESERTS”
Pet vaccinations can protect pets from dangerous, life-threatening illnesses according to the Cape of Good Hope SPCA. NM10075842-QK061026
NEWS 5
PEOPLE’SPOST | GrassyPark|Retreat Tuesday, 6 October 2026
A Grassy Park baseball teen, Hayden Garth Chamberlain, in action at a previous baseball tournament.
A Grassy Park baseball star Hayden Garth Chamberlain was beaming with pride after representing his country at this year’s World Baseball Softball Confederation (WBSC) u-15 Baseball World Cup 2026. In the image above, he posed for a group photo with his teammates. PHOTOS: SUPPLIED
Baseball talent living his dream KEANAN HARMSE Grassy Park baseball star is living his dream, having represented his country on foreign soil at this year’s World Baseball Softball Confederation (WBSC) u-15 Baseball World Cup in Mérida, Yucatán, Mexico.
A
Hayden Garth Chamberlain (15), a talented young pitcher and in-fielder from Fairmount Secondary School, Grassy Park arrived safely in Atlanta, in the United States of America (USA)
with the South African national u-15 squad last month. The team departed from Johannesburg on Thursday 17 September, embarking on a multi-leg flight via London. The 12-nation tournament took place in Mexico from Friday 25 September to Sunday 4 October and featured the South African u-15 Baseball Team, which qualified after an undefeated championship run in Kenya. The World Cup includes rosters made up of the best 13-to-15-yearold baseball players across the globe.
“WE ARE IN COMPLETE AWE,” SAID HIS AUNT, LYNNE ALBERTYN. Matches were primarily held at the Parque Kukulcán Alamo Stadium, which seats 15 000 fans and will be streamed globally on Gametime. Earlier this year, Hayden launched his own raffle fundraiser to cover the travel costs of representing South
Africa. Faced with the challenge of raising R60 000 to fund the international tour, Hayden’s family had initially been prepared to take out personal loans to support his dreams. However, an anonymous benefactor stepped forward to cover the entire cost, in full. “We are in complete awe,” said his aunt, Lynne Albertyn. Hayden’s journey began at just three years old under the mentorship of his father, later joining the Silver Tree Baseball Club in Southfield. His natural prowess and poise under
pressure caught the eye of national coach Tony Alexander during a provincial tournament in Boksburg earlier this year, where Hayden helped his team secure a second-place finish. This international tour is an important step towards Hayden’s ultimate goal of playing in Major League Baseball (MLB). Beyond the sport, coach Alexander noted that Hayden’s success sends a powerful message to the entire Grassy Park community: talent thrives locally, and big dreams are entirely achievable when a community stands together.
6 NEWS
PEOPLE’SPOST | GrassyPark|Retreat Tuesday, 6 October 2026
Zandvlei CMF restores rivers T
he Zandvlei Catchment Management Forum (CMF), one of four CMFs that received grant funding from the City’s Water and Sanitation Directorate, has completed a range of restoration work along the Westlake River and its tributary streams in Orchard Village, Lakeside.
In the 2025-’26 financial year, the City invested R622 000 in four CMFs to support practical projects that improve the health of local waterways and catchments. The Zandvlei CMF used its funding to clear invasive alien vegetation and litter along the Westlake River near the Camargue bridge and at the tributary stream confluence in Kerner Park. The work also included restoring indigenous riparian vegetation, improving habitat and supporting water quality. Other interventions included: Reshaping and widening the stream confluence area in Kerner Park in preparation for a pond/wetland feature, Removing reed roots and other invasive material to prevent regrowth on the Westlake River, Constructing a pathway linking the Camargue complex to the riverbank, and Installing fencing to protect newly planted areas. Reintroducing indigenous vegetation was a key component of the project. Approximately 25 aloes and other donated plants were initially planted, followed by a further 200 to 250 plants during community planting days on Saturday 23 May and Saturday 20 June this year. Many of these plants were propagated by Fynbos Life and were selected to suit the vegetation type naturally occurring in the area. “Healthy rivers and catchments are an import-
. . . . .
THE WORK ALSO INCLUDED RESTORING INDIGENOUS RIPARIAN VEGETATION, IMPROVING HABITAT AND SUPPORTING WATER QUALITY ant part of protecting our water resources. The work undertaken by the Zandvlei Catchment Management Forum shows how local organisations and communities can take practical action to restore degraded areas, protect biodiversity and improve the condition of our waterways. This is the kind of local stewardship we need to see more of across our catchments,” said the City’s mayco member for water and sanitation, Zahid Badroodien. “This project has been an opportunity to bring together the City and stakeholders within the catchment to do work that positively impacts ecosystem rehabilitation, improves water quality and increases biodiversity in the catchment,” said Jennifer Louw, chair of the Zandvlei CMF. Residents are encouraged to join the efforts of the Zandvlei CMF by emailing: catchmentforum@ zandvlei.org.
Mayco member for water and sanitation, Zahid Badroodien, on site with the Zandvlei Catchment Management Forum following the completion of restoration work along the Westlake River and tributary streams in Orchard Village, Lakeside.
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Some of the restoration work completed by the Zandvlei Catchment Management Forum along the Westlake River.
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The restoration work also includes: reshaping and widening the stream confluence area in Kerner Park in preparation for a pond/wetland feature.
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NEWS
PEOPLE’SPOST | GrassyPark|Retreat Tuesday, 6 October 2026
7
UCT academic a Fellow A
NAMHLA MONAKALI
UCT academic has joined the Royal Academy of Engineering as an International Fellow, recognised for three decades of bioprocess engineering research. Prof Sue Harrison, who spent three decades at the University of Cape Town (UCT), has joined the Royal Academy of Engineering (RAEng) as an International Fellow for her work in bioprocess engineering research and innovation. Harrison is one of 75 engineers elected to the academy this year, including a record 24 women. Her election coincides with the academy’s 50th anniversary. She founded the Centre for Bioprocess Engineering Research at UCT in 2001 and directed it for more than two decades. She also held the South African Research Chairs Initiative (SARChI) Research Chair in Bioprocess Engineering, and founded the Future Water research institute at UCT. Her work brought together chemical engineering, biotechnology and microbiology to address challenges in sustainable mineral processing, water treatment and resource recovery. Harrison served as UCT’s Deputy Vice-Chancellor for Research and Internationalisation from 2019 to 2024. During her career she supervised more than 155 postgraduate students to completion, 38 doctoral and 117 master’s students and mentored about 40 postdoctoral researchers.
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FOUNDED THE CENTRE FOR BIOPROCESS ENGINEERING RESEARCH AT UCT IN 2001 AND DIRECTED IT FOR MORE THAN TWO DECADES “I am truly delighted to be elected as an International Fellow of the Royal Academy of Engineering,” she said. “UCT has been the centre of most of my contributions, which has resulted in this election to such a prestigious academy. “My career at UCT has focused on the value of building strong research communities at the interface of new knowledge creation and impact – in industry, society and for the environment and creating opportunities for the next generation of engineers and scientists,” she said. “This fellowship is a recognition not only of an individual career, but of the many colleagues, students and collaborators who have contributed to that journey.” She is now Deputy Vice-Chancellor for Research and Innovation at the University of Queensland in Australia. The academy will formally admit the new fellows at a ceremony in London on Monday 19 October this year. This year’s group reflects the RAEng’s Fellowship Fit for the Future initiative, launched in 2020 to broaden the range of backgrounds in its fellowship. More than half of the
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A practical water conservation initiative at Salt River High School is showcasing how schools can build climate resilience through rainwater harvesting and environmental action. Implemented by the Unnati Training Academy between February and June this year, the project was funded by the City’s Water and Sanitation grant programme as part of a broader environmental awareness campaign in the Lower Salt River catchment. The initiative successfully integrated previously unused JoJo storage tanks into a functional rainwater harvesting system. This infrastructure now irrigates the school’s nursery and climate-smart food garden, significantly reducing its reliance on municipal water. Beyond infrastructure, the project connected sustainable water use with education and community action. In June, a community clean-up removed over 400 bags of waste from the local Black River, while students engaged in discussions on long-term river restoration, proving that water conservation extends far beyond the home.
miss it.” For Kealán Smart, a Milnerton High School learner, this phase of life feels like a “rollercoaster”. “I am both nervous and excited at the same time. It’s twelve years of school all coming down to a few weeks of papers, so the pressure is definitely on. But mostly, I’m just excited to cross the finish line.” When asked what she will miss most about school, she said “the safety net of the school environment”. “I’m going to miss those favourite teachers who always went the extra mile to support us, and the energy of school sports days. And of course I’ll miss my friends. “Next year we’ll be scattered across universities, some working. “I am going to miss just hanging out at break laughing over nothing and seeing the same familiar faces every day. It’s the end of an era, and stepping out into the real world feels exciting, but definitely bittersweet.” Late last month Western Cape Education Minister Jaco Londt outlined the plans to support learners and ensure the province is ready for the examination period. He said the province will have 485 examination centres in operation, comprising 477 high schools, seven primary schools and one correctional services facility serving as a designated
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DVC for Research and Internationalisation: Prof Sue Harrison. PHOTO:SUPPLIED
fellows elected during the initiative came from underrepresented groups.
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This is your moment, Londt tells learners KAYLYNNE BANTOM With the National Senior Certificate (NSC) exams starting next week, the nerves are kicking in for thousands of Western Cape learners preparing to write their final school exams. People’s Post spoke to some matric learners about how they are feeling ahead of the big moment, what they are most nervous about and, as they prepare to close this chapter, what they will miss most about school. About 71 300 full-time matric learners in the province will sit down for the exams on Tuesday next week, 13 October, and run until Wednesday 25 November, marking the final stretch of their school careers. For Zubair Domingo, a Excelsior High School learner, the nerves are starting to set in but so too is the excitement of reaching the end of his school journey. “I’m feeling a bit nervous and stressed because it’s such an important time, but I’m also excited to finally finish this chapter of my life. I’ve worked hard to get here, so I’m just trying to stay focused and do my best.” Domingo said it is also a bittersweet moment. “I’ll definitely miss the people, the laughs and all the memories we’ve made over the years. I’ll miss seeing my friends every day and just having that familiar school environment. Even though I’m ready for the next chapter, school has been a big part of my life and I know I’ll
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centre for part-time learners. About 2 600 community invigilators and 3 857 markers will be involved in the examination process, with 123 examination papers scheduled to be written. Londt said Grade 12 teachers, tutors and officials across the province had been working hard to ensure matriculants were prepared for the final chapter of their school careers. More than 31 000 matric learners attended #BackOnTrack winter-school classes during the mid-year school holiday. Learners can also access information about funding for further studies, health and well-being support as well as free internet and related services through WCG eCentres. Londt acknowledged that the examination period could be stressful for learners and encouraged those who were struggling, or adults concerned about a learner’s mental health, to seek help. School staff can seek guidance from district support teams, while the Safe Schools Hotline on 0800 45 46 47 can connect learners with support from government departments and non-governmental organisations (NGOs). Londt encouraged learners to remain disciplined and focused, adding that “there would be time for celebrations later. For now remain disciplined and focused, your hard work will pay off.”
PUBLIC PARTICIPATION NOTICE: BASIC ASSESSMENT PROCESS FOR THE PROPOSED ENSLIN ROAD HOUSING DEVELOPMENT ON ERVEN 1291,1292,1293-RE, 1294-RE, 1295-RE, 1296-RE,1297-RE,1298-RE,1299-RE & 1300-RE , OTTERY, CAPE TOWN LUKHOZI REFERENCE NO: 1794
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Notice is hereby given of a Public Participation Process being undertaken in terms of the National Environmental Management Act, 1998 (Act No. 107 of 1998) (NEMA), as amended and the Environmental Impact Assessment (EIA) Regulations of 2014 (Government Notice (GN) No. 326), as amended. Applicant: City of Cape Town: Department of Human Settlements. DEA&DP BAR Reference Number: 16/3/3/1/A2/26/3021/26 Project description & Location: Enslin Road Housing project on behalf of the City of Cape Town: Human Settlements has been earmarked for residential development. The proposed development will consist of two, three and four-story buildings with multiple blocks constructed on Erven 1291-1300/RE , with a portion being allocated for a stormwater detention area. Adjacent access roads include Enslin Road to the north, Crescent Close to the south and Sauer Road to the east. The following listed activities are triggered by the proposed application: Activity 4 and 15 of Listing Notice 3 of the EIA Regulations, 2014 (as amended). Availability of the revised Draft Basic Assessment Report (RDBAR) Interested and Affected Parties (I & AP’s) are invited to register and comment on the Revised Draft Basic Assessment Report for the above-mentioned application. The report will be available for a 30-day comment period. The public review period will be from 7 October 2026 – 6 November 2026. The draft documentation will be made available for download on the website of Lukhozi Consulting Engineers (LCE) - www.lukhozi.co.za. Click on Documents, scroll down to Public Participation Document and select 1794 Enslin Road Project. Contact Lukhozi using the contact details below. Lukhozi Consulting Engineers (Pty) Ltd ATT: Natalie Ritsch Office 301A, 3rd Floor, Tijgerpark 3, Willie van Schoor Drive, Bellville, 7530 Tel: 021 686 2550 | Email: n.ritsch@lukhozi.co.za
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8 NEWS
PEOPLE’SPOST | GrassyPark|Retreat Tuesday, 6 October 2026
Bringing children stories to life NAMHLA MONAKALI hildren’s publisher Imagnary House opened the doors to its first bookstore at Kenilworth Station on Sunday 4 October, bringing a storybook-inspired space to the former post office at 34B Kenilworth Road.
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The bookstore opened with a ribbon-cutting ceremony, followed by a tour led by founders Brad Harris and his wife Alison. The Cape Town publisher, which has been producing children’s books for a decade, dedicated about 70% of the shelves to local titles, with international books making up the rest. Alison said the idea was to create a physical space where children could experience stories beyond the pages of a book. “We have been publishing children’s books for 10 years now and through the years we have felt strongly that the stories need a place as magical as they are,” she said. “We want to create a space where kids fall in love with stories and are not simply told to ‘shhh’.” The couple chose the former post office after searching for a suitable space for years. “When we were told the former post office at the station was available, we both simply lit up with excitement,” said Harris. A CHILDHOOD DREAM REALISED
For Harris, the bookstore was the next stage of a dream that began with his own childhood imagination. “Imagnary House began from that desire,” he said. “Book publishing was the first step in realising that dream as an adult, and now we’re trying to add a bit more theatre through a physical space and bring stories to life for children in ways that a page cannot always do.” The founders hoped the store’s location would make it accessible to families from surrounding areas, not just Kenilworth. The couple plans to host a book reading, storytelling activity or other children’s event every Saturday morning. Caregiver community sessions are also planned on Thursdays for grandparents, nannies and full-time parents. Both the Saturday events and the caregiver sessions were free to attend. The bookstore also planned to work with schools, libraries and community organisations, although these partnerships were still being
Children’s publisher Imagnary House opened the doors to its first bookstore at Kenilworth Station on Sunday 4 October.
“It’s a bookstore, and a story” Brad Harris developed at the time of opening. LOCAL STORIES, LOCAL TALENT
The focus on local books was central to the venture. Harris said Imagnary House wanted to raise awareness of South African children’s literature and give local creators more visibility. “When you walk into most bookstores, the majority of the titles are international. Yet, we have so much local talent, and we want people to see that,” she said. South African languages also formed part of the selection, with Harris saying the publisher
hoped to stock books that “celebrate and engage everyone”. Imagnary House won the Bologna Prize for Best Children’s Publishers in Africa last year. The publisher produced books by over 50 local creators in more than 16 languages, with titles distributed across more than 13 countries. The store featured a life-sized tree and reading nook, with fictional faeries, gnomes and mice forming part of the space’s story. Children were able to write letters to characters who lived in the tree and receive letters back as they explored. “It’s a bookstore, and a story,” said Harris. The founders also hoped to work with organisations on book drives to distribute affordable or free books to communities with limited disposable income. They envisaged books travelling from Kenilworth Station to communities along the train route towards Fish Hoek.
Children’s publisher Imagnary House founders Brad and Alison Harris. PHOTOS:SUPPLIED
Rosdien Desai Legacy Library opens at Heideveld Primary AVRIL FILLIES
The Rosdien Desai Legacy Library will be launched on Thursday 8 October at Heideveld Primary School. The library is named after the former principal who retired in March this year after 40 years as a teacher and principal. The launch, in conjunction with The Bookery, will be a special occasion celebrating the establishment of the library as well as honouring Desai’s legacy and his contribution to the school and the community. “Although being retired the bookery at the school is where I’ll spend my time. Learners will be able to hold hardcopies in their hands instead of being on their phones all the time. They will also be able to listen to music, rhymes and poetry in the media room to get them involved and cater for their different interests,” Desai says. In his 40 years as a teacher he says what was special about education was to see how learners were progressing and doing well in life. If you read a book it takes you to places far from where you currently are and expands your vision and can prompt you to travel and explore in the future. “Whether you are an educator on the Cape Flats or the leafy suburbs you must still have the love and passion for being a teacher and dealing with children. Children differ, and children coming from the poor socio-economic areas experience a lot of trauma, violence and gangsterism and you have to build resilience in these learners. A lot of these learners need good role models, because they don’t have any aspirations. Where they live the role models they have are not the ones you want them to have in life. “As a teacher on the Cape Flats you have to expose them to a better way of life than to what they used to on a daily basis,” Desai says.
Heideveld Primary School where the Rosdien Desai Legacy Library will be launched. PHOTO: SUPPLIED
He believes to teach on the Cape Flats you must know the learners face adversity on a daily basis, you need to transform them, inculcate values, show them there is a better way of life, that they can do better. “What they’ve done at Heideveld Primary is created leadership in the foundation phase to have prefects, mini-prefects and in the senior
phase junior prefects with the idea that they become leaders now and in the future and play meaningful roles in the communities they live in,” Desai says. “Heideveld Primary is a well resourced school and the learners are fortunate because they receive the best and are given technology in their classrooms to one day take their
rightful place in their community. “If they one day seek jobs then they can fit in and do well in their jobs.” The library will provide access to a wide range of information resources, including books, academic journals, e-books, multimedia, and digital databases, supporting both formal education and self-directed learning.
NEWS 9
PEOPLE’SPOST | GrassyPark|Retreat Tuesday, 6 October 2026
Show love and adopt a family pet
T
o shine a spotlight on thousands of pets that are abandoned or in need of new homes People’s Post has teamed up with TEARS Animal Rescue to help some of these four-legged pets get new homes. Once a month we will publish several dogs and cats up for adoption.
TEARS is a pro-life non-profit organisation (NPO) established in 1999 to rescue, treat, rehabilitate, reunite and re-home lost, abandoned, abused and neglected companion animals and to educate pet owners and the youth living in the four under-resourced communities. It remains the only facility in the Cape Peninsula's far South available seven days a week, including an after-hours mobile clinic service from 16:30 to 19:00 with limited veterinary care. TEARS treats hundreds of animals for various conditions, illnesses and injuries.
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DOGS:
Puzzle is a sweet ’n spicy Africanis-Pibble mix with a huge personality and heart! Energetic, affectionate and playful. She’s looking for an experienced owner who can provide structure, stimulation and warmth. Social with dogs outdoors but prefers being the only pet at home. Puzzle is trainable, responsive and eager to please once she trusts you. Best with older kids. Rafiki is a curious Curly Coat Retriever-Africanis cross who sees every walk as an adventure! Food-motivated and eager to learn, he’ll thrive with consistent training, routine and enrichment. Rafiki adores other dogs and loves to play but can also flourish as an only dog. He’s social, confident and ready to explore life with his new family. Best with kids 6+. Todd is an Africanis-Lurcher mix and TEARS’ longest-staying resident, after almost seven years in kennels. Wary at first, this sensitive, intelligent boy becomes deeply loyal once trust is earned. Todd adores dogs and would
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THE ONLY FACILITY IN THE CAPE PENINSULA’S FAR SOUTH AVAILABLE SEVEN DAYS PER WEEK SEVEN DAYS PER WEEK thrive with a canine companion. He needs an experienced, calm adopter who understands his need for patience, predictability and a slow build of trust. Best with young adults. Major is a high-energy, clever and playful beach boy who loves adventure! Strong, athletic and food-motivated, he thrives on walks, beach trips, balls and car rides. Major is social with dogs and would enjoy a confident canine companion. He needs an experienced, active home offering structure, training and plenty of mental and physical enrichment. Best with tweens and up.
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Rafiki
Todd
Major
Mango Tango and Glimmer
Gracie
Mac
Jones
CATS:
Mango Tango and Glimmer Star: Two brothers, one beautiful story These adorable brothers were adopted together as tiny kittens, only to find themselves back at the cattery months later through circumstances beyond their control. They were confused and heartbroken, but slowly found their sparkle again. Today, they’re playful, joyful and inseparable. Mango Tango has his tango back, and Glimmer Star has found his shine. Now they’re looking for a true forever home – together. Could you be their happy ending? Gracie: From Gentle Mama to Mischief Maker! Once a devoted, gentle mama, Gracie has discovered her playful side now that her kittens have grown up! This cheeky ginger girl is full of energy, turning everything into a game and keeping her humans on their toes with playful
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Puzzle
ambushes and love bites. If you’re looking for a fun-loving, spirited companion who’ll keep life interesting, Gracie is your girl! Meet Mac, a little girl with the biggest heart. Young, gentle and incredibly affectionate, Mac spends her days waiting for someone to see beyond her FIV diagnosis and choose her. She dreams of a warm bed, a loving human and a safe home. FIV affects only cats and cannot be passed to people or dogs. Mac needs an indoor-only
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home or secure catio/garden. Please help Mac find the loving forever home she deserves. Jones, our sweet “Daisy Jones”! A striking tabby with a feral background, Jones has spent almost three years at the cattery. While human touch still takes some getting used to, she now greets us with the sweetest little meows, especially when treats are involved! Jones needs a calm, patient home willing to move at her pace and celebrate her progress. Behind her cautious nature is a beautiful personality waiting to bloom.
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10 ENTERTAINMENT
PEOPLE’SPOST | GrassyPark|Retreat Tuesday, 6 October 2026
Come to Deep South’s celebration of art, creativity
The talented residents of The Avenue Retirement Hotel are hoping to attract many visitors for their twoday art and craft exhibition. PHOTO: SUPPLIED
Fish Hoek’s two days’ arts, crafts T
KEANAN HARMSE
he talented residents of The Avenue Retirement Hotel, Fish Hoek are opening their doors to the community for a spectacular two-day art-andcraft exhibition this October. The public showcase celebrates the work of the hotel’s Creative Group, which originally launched in October 2024.
Gathering every Monday for two hours of laughter and storytelling, the group brings together enthusiastic residents aged between 60 and 95 years. Operating under their inspiring collective theme “I DO!” these creative seniors embrace a proud policy of never saying “I cannot.” Visitors can expect a highly diverse display of outstanding talent spanning fine art, stone painting, needle embroidery, pencil drawing, and shell crafting. The exhibition will feature beautiful handmade jerseys, mittens, beanies and booties knitted specially for newborn babies. Those attending can also view unique cat blankets
HIGHLY DIVERSE PRODUCTS OF OUTSTANDING TALENT ON DISPLAY. crocheted regularly for a local Fish Hoek cattery, alongside an intricate, deeply personal autobiography compiled by the group’s resident scrapbooking expert. After months of admiring the beautiful weekly artwork produced during their sessions, the members decided to organise a public event to share their masterpieces. The exhibition highlights how local seniors use different mediums and brilliant ideas to turn everyday materials into something entirely new and useful. The public exhibition will take place at The Avenue, located at 9 First Avenue, Fish Hoek. The doors will open on Saturday 17 and Sunday 18 October between 10:00 and 16:00 daily. Admission is free, and everyone is welcome to attend, admire the local talent, and support the village’s vibrant creative spirit.
Stage-musical version of ‘The Bodyguard’ movie in March Showtime Management will bring The Bodyguard to South Africa for the first time in March next year. Based on the iconic film starring Whitney Houston and Kevin Costner, the musical follows superstar Rachel Marron and her bodyguard, Frank Farmer, as they navigate danger, fame and an unexpected romance. The production features some of Houston’s biggest hits, including “I Will Always Love You”, “I wanna dance with somebody”, “Queen of the night”, “I have nothing”, “Run to you” and “So emotional”. The Bodyguard opens at Artscape on Friday 12 March, before moving to the Teatro at Montecasino in Johannesburg on Friday 23 April next year. The all-South African cast will be announced later this month. The production follows the recent staging of Pretty Woman: The Musical and the current return season of Mamma Mia!, continuing its
focus on major musicals featuring South African casts, crews and musicians. The original 1992 film was a major box-office success, while its Houston soundtrack became the best-selling soundtrack album in history, selling over 45 million copies worldwide. It also won the Grammy Award for Album of the Year, while “I Have Nothing” and “Run to You” received Oscar nominations. Showtime Management’s Hazel Feldman said the company was excited to bring another major movie-based musical to South Africa and introduce local audiences to the stage adaptation. Early-bird specials offering 20% off are available for selected shows. The production is rated PG 12+ due to adult themes, language and content. Tickets available through Ticketmaster.
PREVIEW WITH A PURPOSE
Art lovers and collectors can get an early look at the studios during a ticketed preview event on Friday. Proceeds from the preview will support Project Flamingo, which provides timeous, compassionate and holistic care to breast-cancer patients within the public health-care system. Tickets cost R150 per person and are available via Quicket. The opening function will take place at the iconic AP Jones department store on Fish Hoek Main Road (M4) at 09:30 on Friday, where guests will be treated to a bespoke installation and live performance. Guests will also receive a complimentary coffee voucher from Peak Café, a glass of Lubanzi Wines served at the artists’ studios and a wearable badge from Project Flamingo. Once the preview is over, the studios will open free of charge to the public on Saturday and Sunday from 10:00 to 16:00. GET CREATIVE
The weekend will offer more than just an opportunity to view and buy art; visitors are invited to take part in a range of interactive activities. At Peak Café visitors can create their own mini-artwork on a Post-it note and add it to a live, growing exhibition of art for all and by all. Post-it notes and drawing materials are supplied by The Write Shoppe. Artists will also go head-to-head in the Lubanzi Eco Wine Bucket Challenge, creating their own eco-friendly wine containers. The creations will be displayed at the studio stops, with members of the public invited to vote for their favourite. Prizes are up for grabs for both the public and the winning concept. A full map featuring the route guide, studio locations and points of interest, as well as artist profiles and other information, is available at openstudios.org.za.
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Majika returns to the iconic Cape Town City Hall For the first time, Majika – Africa’s Greatest Illusionists, is taking over Cape Town City Hall, transforming the historic venue into a spectacular theatre for three performances between Saturday 7 and Sunday 8 November. Following sold-out performances last year, Majika returns bigger, bolder and packed with brand-new magic, bringing together some of Africa’s most exciting magical talent for a fastpaced theatrical spectacle. Leading the action is award-winning comedian and television personality Stuart Taylor, hosting an extraordinary company featuring illusionists Olwethu Dyantyi and Kgomotso Marite, trickster Mawonga Gayiya, daredevil Anja Steyn, manipulator Sinalo Mtwana and deceptionist Thomas Wege, joined by the
Majika Dancers. Audiences can expect spectacular large-scale illusions, astonishing close-up magic brought to life on the big stage and a death-defying tribute to Harry Houdini, featuring an upside-down straitjacket escape high above the stage. Created by the College of Magic, Majika puts African magical talent centre stage, combining world-class entertainment with a distinctly local energy. It is a spectacular live experience designed for the whole family, from young magic fans seeing their first illusion to adults who think they’ve seen every trick in the book. The first performance will be on Saturday at 15:00 and two shows on Sunday at noon and 15:30. Tickets available through Webtickets.
Sinalo Mtwana will be among the acts in the upcoming Majika. PHOTOS: SUPPLIED
Kgomotso Marite and Olwethu Dyantyi are ready to take patrons on an exciting journey.
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Showtime Management will bring The Bodyguard to South Africa for the first time in March next year. PHOTO: SUPPLIED
Cape Town’s Deep South is set to become a celebration of art, creativity and local talent when Open Studios Fish Hoek & Clovelly (OSFHC) returns from Friday 9 to Sunday 11 October. The self-guided art trail will open the doors of more than 30 artists at 20 locations across Fish Hoek and Clovelly, offering the public a behindthe-scenes look at how local art is created. From painting and printmaking to ceramics, sculpture and mixed media, visitors will have the opportunity to explore artists’ working spaces and buy original artworks directly from the artists. Since its inaugural edition last year OSFHC has grown from 19 featured artists to more than 30 this year. This year’s trail also introduces two new shared studio hubs – Mothership Studios and Fish Hoek Studios – which house artists working across painting, sculpture, illustration and mixed media. Despite the event’s growth every participating artist is put forward by a dedicated selection committee, maintaining the curatorial standard that defines OSFHC. Among this year’s newcomers is bronze sculptor Chris Bladen, whose detailed sculptures of fish and birds are inspired by his love of fly-fishing and birdwatching. Oil painter Mandy Lake, whose ocean-inspired abstractions have been exhibited in galleries from George to Ballito, will also feature, along with photographer Angela Buckland, whose work has been exhibited at the Iziko National Gallery and Durban Art Gallery and published across three books. Illustrator Nicolene Louw, whose pen-and-ink work has been shown as far afield as Switzerland and Portugal, and multidisciplinary artist Jasper Wolfeman, whose paintings and sculptural floral arrangements have been exhibited across Cape Town, Barcelona and the United States of America (USA), will also join the trail.
CLASSIFIEDS 11
PEOPLE’SPOST | GrassyPark|Retreat Tuesday, 6 October 2026
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All the winners in the different categories. PHOTO: SUPPLIED
Western Cape features strongly in national contest S
A COUNTRY NEEDS ENGINEERS AND ARTISANS
The Sasol Foundation, in partnership with Kagiso Trust, the Department of Basic Education, government and industry stakeholders, celebrated the achievements of the finalists at an evening attended by Minister of Basic Education Siviwe Gwarube, senior government and education representatives, industry leaders, teachers and partners. The national final brought together 151 learners and 77 teachers from all nine provinces who reached this year’s final, celebrating their achievements after over 17 000 learners participated in qualifying rounds across the country. Two days prior, Grade 10 and 11 learners and teachers competed in 11 practical, industry-relevant disciplines, putting their technical knowledge, precision, creativity, problem-solving ability and practical application of skills to the test. “There should be no hierarchy of dignity between these pathways. A country needs doctors and engineers. But it also needs artisans, technicians, electricians, welders, fitters, machinists, mechanics, plumbers, builders and skilled operators. These skills are not secondtier careers. They are essential careers,” said Gwarube. Category winners were awarded cash vouchers, tools of the trade and online courses and one lucky winner, Simthandile Mkwanazi in the Construction category was awarded a R250 000 apprenticeship from Resolution Circle. The National Skills Competition provides a practical example of what this can look like: identifying technical talent at school level, giving young people opportunities to test themselves against real-world challenges, exposing them to industry and creating greater visibility around technical and vocational pathways. The competition is designed to demonstrate that technical and vocational education is not a fallback option, but a pathway into meaningful and rewarding careers. The 11 categories – spanning automotive technology, CAD, construction, digital systems,
electrical power systems, engineering graphics and design, electronics, fitting and machining, plumbing, woodworking, and welding and metalwork – reflect the breadth of technical capability required in a changing economy. Dr Mankodi Moitse, Chief Executive Officer of Kagiso Trust, said the competition demonstrated the value of creating opportunities for young people to discover their strengths and apply what they have learned. “Technical and vocational pathways are not alternatives to success. They are important pathways into it,” she said. “Technical excellence requires discipline, curiosity, the willingness to learn, to make mistakes, to try again and to keep improving. These are qualities that will serve young people well, wherever their careers take them.” She also highlighted the role of teachers in creating these opportunities. “Skills are transferred through people. The knowledge, patience and commitment of teachers, trainers and mentors help create opportunities for others.” Thabile Makgala, Executive Vice President: People, SHE Risk and Corporate Affairs at Sasol added: “Tonight we celebrate more than technical ability. We celebrate the confidence that comes from mastering a skill, the courage to compete, and young South Africans showing that excellence is found in practical achievement as well as academic. “The young people we have seen over the past two days could be tomorrow’s artisans, engineers and entrepreneurs. Our responsibility is to make sure the pathway is there for them when they leave school.” The competition also recognised the contribution of teachers, mentors, industry partners and sponsors who supported the finalists throughout the process. “Behind every successful learner is an educator who invested time, energy and belief,” said Makgala. “Their contribution extends far beyond the classroom. They are helping to shape the next generation of skilled South Africans.” The organisers also acknowledged the contribution of industry partners in providing venues, expertise, equipment, judging and opportunities for young people to engage with the world of work.
outh Africa’s future is being built by skilled young hands, and technical excellence deserves the same celebration as academic success. This was the message at the 2026 National Skills Final Competition Awards Ceremony in Johannesburg on Sunday 4 October, where the country’s emerging technical talent took centre stage.
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SPURS PROGRESS TO THE NEXT ROUND
Shafwaad Christians of Silver Spurs’ attempt to score is thwarted by Lance Niewehuis of Rygersdal Football Club (Rondebosch) during SAFA Cape Town regional third division Nedbank cup play-off match played in Athlone on Saturday 3 October. Spurs won 4-2 to advance to the next round of the competition. PHOTO: RASHIED ISAACS
RUGBY GOLD CUP TOP 16
Villager dumped out of Gold Cup AVRIL FILLIES
V
illager from Brookside will have to try again next year to win the coveted Gold Cup after they were eliminated in the Top 16 by Durbell in the Southern Bracket on Saturday 3 October.
Durbell progressed to the quarter-finals after a 32-27 victory and will fly the Western Province Rugby Union’s flag when they take on Roses United from Wellington, Boland’s representative in the contest. Villager were looking for their third trophy this year, after being crowned back-to-back Super League A champions and President’s Cup winners, but it was not to be. Despite the defeat three players,
Back-to-back Super League A champions and President’s Cup winners
Giuliano de Franchi, Thoubaan Gabriels and William Rose, celebrated 50 caps. It was always going to be an uphill battle for both teams and it was only going to be who wants it the most. Last year Hamiltons were in the same boat as Villager when the latter beat them in their quarter-finals in a Cape derby and Villager progressed to the final where Naka Bulls were too strong and were crowned backto-back winners of the Gold Cup. Roses United, the reigning champions at the 2026 Thurlow Marsh Easter Festival, beat Bloemfontein Police 24-12. Roses are hoping to progress to the
final. The team is also competing in the Top 12 of Boland Rugby and was supposed to fulfill this commitment this coming Saturday 10 October, but the Gold Cup will get first priority. Last year Robertson Town was in the same situation and had to play on the Saturday in the Gold Cup and the Sunday in the Top 12, which disadvantaged the team. Depending on Roses United’s performances thus far, the Top 12 will be postponed until further notice. With SK-Walmers and Villager out of the picture in the Gold Cup, all Super League A teams will support Durbell to go all the way for WP. Roses United’s counterpart who fell short in the Gold Cup were Saldanha. Durbell will travel to Wellington on Saturday 10 October for their quarter-final, while College Rovers take on Gardens in Durban on the same day.
ROVERS BOOK CUP FINAL TICKET
Damian Joseph of Island Rovers Football Club (FC) in the Northerns league and Aqeel Jappie of Hanover Park FC tussle for the ball during a SAFA Cape Town Coke Cup semi-final match played in Mitchells Plain on Sunday 4 October. Hanover Park, also know as “brasse van die Kaap”, beat the Islanders 4-1 to set up a cup final with Saxon Rovers on 17 October at Athlone stadium. PHOTO: RASHIED ISAACS