People’s Post Woodstock/Maitland/City E-edition 7 April 2026

Uphill battle forcitizens

Ithas been atough starttothe month forconsumers as thefuelhikewas implementedfromWednesday 1April as well as an averageelectricity tariff increase of 8,76%for Eskomcustomers

Neil Roets, chiefexecutive officer(CEO) of Debt Rescue,warns that theincreases are“disastrous”for consumers.

“Thispricestwo of themostessentialnecessities –petroltodrive theirvehiclesand electricitytoheatfood andkeep thelightson– beyond thereach of theaverage citizen– andthisspells disaster on alevel we have notseen yet.”

He warnsthatSouth Africans arefastfalling deeper into financialruin.

“Itisdeeplyconcerningthatauthorities are notrespondingmoreurgentlytothe writingon thewall.”

ANYRELIEFINSIGHT?

Despitegovernment’sannouncement to temporarily reduce thefuellevybyR3per litrefor petrol anddieselfor this month, Roetssaidthe pricehikes will stillhavea dramatic impact on SouthAfricans.

“Petrolisa mainstay of themonthly budget

GOVERNMENT IS SCRAMBLING TO SECURE FUEL SUPPLYFOR THE COUNTRY

of everyhousehold,whether youare avehicle ownerornot,and many ruralhouseholdsstill useitto fire up theirgenerators.

“Whenthe priceofpetroland diesel increases, it’s inevitable that otheressentialgoodswillgo up in pricetoo,withstaplefoodsatthe topof thelist, as we seethe knock-on effectonroad andrailtransport.”

THEDIESELDEBATE

He said in SouthAfricadieselretailpricing is notregulated in thesameway petrol is.Unlike petrol,where thegovernmentsetsa regulated pump pricethatall stations must follow, diesel’s retail priceisonlyguidedbya monthly referenceprice

This meansthatfuelstationscan adjust diesel prices at anytimeduringthe month.

“Itisencouraging that ourgovernmentis

scrambling to secure fuelsupplyfor thecountry forthe upcoming months,withreports coming in that SouthAfricaisseekinga standard contract fora 12-month supplyfromNigeria,”

Roetsnotes

“Right nowthough, we only have enough to seethe countrythrough forthe next fewweeks.”

ESKOM’SDARKAGE

Roetswarns that thenationalpower utility Eskomwillalsobehardhit by thedieselprice hike

Theprice increase will placeseverepressure on Eskom’s finances forthisyearbydramatically increasing theoperational costsofits Open CycleGas Turbines (OCGTs).

This forces Eskomtoeitherfundhigheroperationalcosts or reduce usage, potentially risking higher stages of load shedding or more outages, notesRoets

“Loadshedding is somethingweSouth Africans believed we hadleftbehindfor good,” says Roets. “Householdssimplydon’t have the wherewithaltowithstand anotherround of plannedpower outages, especially at this time when they arefacinginsurmountable financial challenges,” he warns.

Taxisandbusesmonitoringtheoilmarket

TheSouth AfricanNationalTaxiCouncil (Santaco)saidgiven that most minibustaxis operate on diesel,which is largelyunregulated,the significant priceincreasemeans theindustry will continue to absorb thegreatestimpactof thecurrent fuel priceadjustments

Motoristsare feelingthe squeeze, with petrol increasedbyR3,06 perlitre anddieselspiking by R7,37.

Santacosaidwhile it welcomes theR3fuel levy relief as anecessary short-term intervention,the overallincreaseinfuelpricescontinuestoplace significant pressure on thetaxi industry andits dailyoperations.

Mmatshikhidi Phala, Santaconationalspokesperson,saidtaxiassociations across thecountry arecurrently assessing theimpactofthese increasesontheir operationalcosts andprofit margins.

“Based on theseassessments,associations will communicate directly with theircommuters regardingany potentialfareadjustments.”

Phalasaidthatany fare increasesimplemented by associations will be approached with “caution,transparency, andresponsibility”

Phalasaidnationally,Santaco leadership remainsactivelyengaged with government to explorefurther supportmeasuresaimed at softeningthe ongoing financialstrainonboth theindustryand commuters.

“These engagementsare critical to ensuring that theburdenofrisingcosts does notdis

proportionatelyaffectthose whorelyonpublic transportdaily

“Santaco calls forunderstanding andcooperationfromcommuters during this challenging period,asthe industry workstobalance sustainabilitywithaffordability.”

MeanwhileBronwen Dyke-Beyers, spokesperson forGoldenArrow,saidthe busservices remainscommittedtosupportingthe communities that they serve.

Shesaidcurrently Golden Arrowdoesnot plan to implementfareincreases

“Wewilldoeverythingpossibletoshieldour passengersbyabsorbing theseadditional fuel costsfor as long as possible. However, should thesepressurespersist or intensifythere will come apoint wherefareadjustments become unavoidable.”

Dyke-Beyerssaidtheywillcontinuetomonitordevelopments.

“Wewillcontinuetomonitor thesituation closelyand will always communicate transparentlywithour passengersshouldany changes become necessary.”

As fleetingand unpredictableas theweather canbe, so toohave ourpersonallives become in the ever shifting globaland economic landscape. We find ourselveswrestlingtounderstandwhile we keep ourheads abovewater.These daily anxietieswrackingour brains have been compounded by theraging warinthe MiddleEastand the conflictoverthe Strait of Hormuz whichhas caused an unprecedented fuelhikethatpunctured our pocketsaswelookedonhelplessly at theprice of petrol anddiesel skyrocketing as we approached the monthofApril Ironically thefuelhikearrivedon AprilFool’s Day, howapt we find ourselvescaughtinthe middleof ajokewhere onecan only laugh insteadofcry at theimminent risingcosts andinflationthatawaits

us in thecomingweeks. Research showsthatthe increase in petrol (fuel) prices is asignificant global economic shockthattriggers a “chain reaction,leading to higher inflation, increasedcostofliving, andslowereconomicgrowth” Slowly we’llsee howthese fuel hikesaffectthe grocerieswebuy as fuelis“essential” fortransporting goods, agriculture, andmanufacturing Rising oilpricescreatea negative supplyshock that spreadsacross theentireglobaleconomy.This feelingofhelplessnesscan be quite draining as we deal with ourown personal problems andissues affecting ourfamilies, notmissing thefactthatthe SouthAfrican National DefenceForce hasdescended upon theCapeFlats to bringa senseofsafetyand security amid thealarmingrates of violence and gunshots affecting residents. Themerefactthatthe army had to be calledintoquell andcurbthe amount of shootings is notonlya worryingsignfor ournationwhere

everynew Stateofthe Nation speechbringsthe “promise”ofa SouthAfricawhere theconstant issues of unemployment,housing, educationand economic freedomhavestarted to show signs of improvement. Insteadwe’re constantly seeing ourcalls falling on deaf ears Ironically,itseemsgovernment seemstolistenmoreattentively when election season is loomingand more voters need to be groomed.

So we’llsee more politicians showingthemselvesinthe poorer communitiesand mingling with thedisadvantaged andoffering more illusionsofhopeona horizon that neverseemstoreach us despitethe yearsthatpass. Whymustour crimestats andthe number of bodies of youngpeople killedsenselesslybecomepiled into such aunsettlingstatistic that ourpoliticians andkey figurescan “wakeup” andtakeaction? On Tuesdayevening,driving past apetrolstation in Cape Town,I

wasamazedatthe long queues of cars seekingfuelattendants andthe sightseemed so grim as Iwatched thecarsstand still anddrivers patientlywaiting.At timesitcan be such an exercise to remain hopeful andgrateful watching thenewsand seeing all thedestruction andinnocent lives everywhere we go.Whether we’re hearingabout disturbing murders on ourphones, television or on the radio, we’reconstantlyswarmed with notonlynewsreports,wenow have influencersdissectingthese storiesfor us andoften sensationalisingthese incidentswithmore gruesome detail It’s becoming harder to stay optimistic andtosupport each otherin this ageofrapid informationand anxiety. Butoften theright thingtodo requires themostdisciplineand in theend becomesthe most rewardingfor notonlyourselves,but also in aiding anotherhuman beingby simply listeningand understanding.

Visionary praises the public

NAMHLAMONAKALI

The University of Cape Town (UCT)has honoured Dr Imtiaz Sooliman with an honorary doctorate, recognising alifetimeofhumanitarianwork that hasstretched across continents, disastersand decades.

Butfor thefounder of Gift of the Givers,the accolade is nota personal triumph, it is areflection of collective effort, faithand thequiet powerof ordinary people

Speaking to People’s Post,Sooliman emphasised that therecognition belongsnot to him, buttoa nation “Myspiritual teachermadeit very clearwhateverisdoneisdone throughyou andnot by you,”hesaid. “I don’ttakecreditfor anyofthe accolade;Giftofthe Givers is nota personal achievement.”

Instead, he describedthe doctorate as asymbolichonourfor SouthAfrica’s over 60 million people

“Inessence, this doctorateisa celebrationof60million SouthAfricans, it is an acknowledgementofthe greatnessofSouth Africans.”

Hiswords echo thephilosophythat hasdefinedhis work sincethe early 1990s, abeliefthatservice must be unconditional, dignified anddriven by compassion

Unlike many organisationsborn from strategy or planning,Giftofthe

THE COUNTRYDOESNOT BELONG TO GOVERNMENT.ITBELONGSTOUS.

Givers was, accordingtoSooliman, born from instruction.

“A gift of thegiversisnot my idea,” he explained. “I wasinstructedbya spiritualteacher;‘My son, I’mnot asking you. Iaminstructing youto form an organisation’.”

That instructioncamewitha clear mandate: to serveall people,regardless of race,religion, geographyor politicalaffiliation, withoutexpectation of reward

“Serve people with love,kindness, compassion andmercy,” he said, recalling theguidance. “Clothethe naked, feed thehungry, providewater to thethirsty andineverythingyou do,bethe best at what youdo.”

Today, Gift of theGiversisone of Africa’s largestdisasterresponse organisations, knownfor itsrapid interventionsin floods, droughts, conflicts andhumanitariancrises, both locallyand internationally

ButSoolimaninsists that its strength lies notinone individual, butina networkofsupport

“Itissupported by wives, children, family strong teams, donors,public support,media,government,”he said.“It is acelebration of allSouth Africans.”

Whilethe honora brates contribution themomenttodrawa country’smostpressi andtheyare stark.

“Hungeristhe bigge in SouthAfricaright warningthatrisingf costswould worsen

Thesecondmajor is thehealthcaresys

“There is notenoug enough medicalper system is in ahugec Sooliman,pointingt surgeries, shortage andthe urgent need upgrades

Waterinfrastruct jobcreationfollowc

“There arehugeinf problems, no main upgrades,” he said.“ don’tknowhow to we need more teache teachers.”

On unemployment stressedthe import dignitythrough wo

“Weneed to create make independentp dent,not dependen

Understanding autism is astart

Wildfires have tangiblenegativeeffects on health PHOTO:SUPPLIED

Wildfire-smokeparticles remainahealthhazard

Each summerthe mountainsofthe Western andEastern Cape areconsumedby fierce wildfires, triggering widespread concernabout immediateresidents’safety, andsending smoke andash billowing forkilometres.

Formany, thesmell of smokebecomes adaily companionwellafter thelastembersare under control, andthisisa signal that theair they’re breathingand thehygiene in theirhomes have been affected.

“Wildfireshavetangiblenegativeeffects on health,” says Trevor Brewer,ManagingDirectoratair treatmentexpertSolenco.“Smoke particlescan linger fordays, even in areasnot directly affectedbya blazeand this pollution, combined with summer’salready dryair, createsconditionsthatstrainyourrespiratory system.”

Thesmoke that follows firesismadeupof ultra-fine particles, smallenoughtopenetrate deep into thelungs andevenenter thebloodstream

Thedryness that comeswithsummeronly compoundsthe problem:itleavesthroats parched, nasalpassagesraw,and canmakethe eyes water.

Formostpeoplethiscan triggercoughing fits, chesttightness, wheezingordifficultybreathing, andit’sworse forchildren, theelderly and thosewithpre-existingrespiratory conditions It canalsoput your pets’healthindanger.

YOURFIRSTLINEOFDEFENCE?

Stay informed andact accordingly. Checkonline airquality levels so youknowwhenit’ssafe to open your windowsorspend time outside. Your second line of defenceistoprioritise clean, breathable airindoors. Airpurifierswith high efficiency particulateair (Hepa) filtersare

particularly effective,capable of removing upwardsof99,98%ofairbornetoxins, including smokeparticles,dust, andother allergens.

“Thisnot only improves respiratorycomfort, butalsohelps preventlong-term exposure-relatedhealthissues.Modernunits ofteninclude multi-stage filtration systems, activatedcarbon filters, andevenUV-Clight to neutralise bacteriaand viruses, giving families confidencethat theair they’rebreathing is safe,” says Brewer “Dry airdoesn’t just feel unpleasant,itcan also accelerate wear andtearinthe home Wooden floorsand furniture canshrinkor crack, wooden musicalinstruments maywarp, andelectronics aremoresusceptible to static-related damage.”

He adds that ahumidifier that automatically maintainsoptimal indoor moisture will help counteract theseeffects.“Some unitscombine humidification with airpurification,sowhile moisture levels areoptimised,lingering smoke particlesand allergensare simultaneously removed.”

Brewer points outthatit’sessentialtokeep your airtreatment devicesclean,especially in wildfire conditions when dust andsmoke residuescan buildupquickly.Hesuggestswhere possibleinvesting in models that offer auto–cleancyclestominimisemaintenance effortand keep filtersworking effectively.“Protecting your home andhealthduringwildfire season doesn’t requiredrastic measures.It’sabout stayingon topofthe situation, limiting exposure when outdoor airisn’t safe,and usingreliablehome technology to purify theair andregulatehumidity.”

“Good indoor airquality isn’tjustabout comfort.It’sabout creating ahealthy,breathable spacefor youand your family.”

Sleephygienevitalforrunners

NAMHLAMONAKALI

As thousandsoflocal andinternational runners preparefor theTwo Oceans Marathon on Saturday11and Sunday 12 April, an expert warns that travel-related sleep disruption mayaffect performancebydisruptingrecoveryand the body’s internal clock.

Whilemostrunners focusontraining, nutrition andpacing, sports scientistShona Hendricks says sleep is oftenoverlooked despiteits role in recovery andperformance

“Sleep is goingtobethe number onekey for recovery,which is whereweget allthe benefits,” Hendrickssays.

Sheexplainsthattravelcan affectathletes differentlydepending on distance andwhether they crosstimezones

“Ifyou aretravelling across time zones, you getjet lag, whichaffects your circadianrhythm andshiftsyoursleep cycle,”saysHendricks

“Evenifyou aretravelling within thesame time zone,you stillexperiencetravelfatigue from long periodsofsitting andlimited movement.”

Hendrickssaysdisrupted sleep hasmeasurable consequences forendurance athletes

“There aremultiplestudies that show if you getlessthanseven hoursofsleep consistently,you have an increasedriskofinjuryand illness,”she says

Sheadds that poor sleepaffects thebody’s abilitytorecover andadapt to training,particularlythrough reducedhormone release.

“Ifyou arenot sleepingatthe righttimes, youget less releaseofimportant hormones like testosterone andgrowthhormone,which help with recovery andperformance,” shesays.

Forrunners tackling long distances, these effects canaccumulate andimpactrace-day outcomes

“Reduced sleep hasa negative impact on performance,” Hendrickssays.

Athletes travelling long distancesmay also face ahigherriskofillnessdue to prolonged exposure in confinedspacessuchasaeroplanes.

Hendricksurges runners to preparetheir sleep patterns well before race day. “I wouldsay oneand ahalftotwo weeksout,start adjusting your sleep patternsand make sure that youare getting enough rest,” shesays.

Shehighlightsthe importance of sleep hygiene, includingmaintaining adarkand cool room,and avoiding screensbeforebedtime

“Youreyelidisa very thin membrane,soeven smallamounts of lightcan activate thebrain,” shesays.

Forathletescrossing time zones, Hendricks recommendsaligningwithlocal conditions as quicklyaspossible.

“You want to expose yourself to daylight as soon as possibleand alignyoureatingand sleepingwithlocal timesstraightaway,”she says

Lightactivity, such as ashort walk or easy run afterarrival, canalsoassist thebodyinadjusting. During travel,she advisesrunners to stay hydrated,avoid alcohol, limitcaffeine intake andmoveregularly

“Use earplugs andeye masksifneeded,and take shortnapsifyou can,”she says Despitethe growingfocus on performance science, Hendrickssaysmanyrunners still underestimatethe importance of sleep

“Theyunderestimate theimportanceofsleep notjustfor race day, butfor training as well,” shesays.

With theTwo Oceans Marathon drawing thousandsofparticipantstoCapeTownthis month, sheurges athletes to treatsleep as a critical part of theirpreparation

“Ifweare notsleepingenough, we areincreasingthe risk of injury andillness, andweare not getting thefullbenefitofour training,” Hendricks concludes.

Hikingsafety awarenessupped

NAMHLAMONAKALI

CapeTown’stourism andrescue authoritiesare intensifying hiking safety awarenessafter arisein seasonal emergenciesonpopular mountain routes.

Cape Town Tourismand Wilderness Search andRescue(WSAR)saysmostincidents are preventableand linked to poor preparation, injuries andchangingweather conditions

Jeremiah Foster,Destination Safety Manager at Cape Town Tourism, says visitors are increasingly choosing well-known, high-visibilityroutesonTable Mountain wherethere is a stronger perceivedsense of safety

Speaking to People’s Post,Fostersaidthese patterns, together with peak summertourism, areplacing pressure on infrastructure and safety resources.

“Fromour perspective, we sharehikingsafety informationacrossvarious platformstoensure visitors caneasilyaccess it before andduring theirtrip,”hesaid.

Foster said guidance is shared on official websites, visitorinformation channels andthrough tourismpartners, includingvisitor centresand hotelconcierges.

Theorganisationaimstoprovide practical advice withoutcausing alarm. Safety messagingfocuses on carrying sufficientwater,hiking in groups,avoidingdisplayingvaluables and informingsomeone of hiking plansand return times. Visitors arealsowarnedabout environmental riskssuchassuddenweather changes, fire hazardsand wildlife

Foster said collaboration remainscentral to safety efforts

MAJORITY OF RESCUE INCIDENTSINVOLVE SLIPS, TRIPS ANDFALLS

On Saturday 21 March, Cape Town Tourism partneredwithWSAR, SANParks andlocal neighbourhood watchgroupsfor ajoint mountain safety awarenessactivation.

WSAR spokesperson DavidNel said the majority of rescue incidentsinvolve slips, trips andfalls

Otherfrequentchallenges includehikers underestimatingroute difficulty, inadequate preparation, unexpected weathershiftsand heat-related illnessduringwarmermonths.

“While visiblepatrols reassure hikers and support immediateassistance,moreneedstobe done to educatevisitorsabout proper planning,” Nelsaid.

He said aproactive partnership-driven approach is needed to preventavoidable emergencies

WSAR relies on trainedvolunteerswho balance rescue work with personal andprofessional commitments.Limited funding remainsa challenge, with volunteerscoveringthe costsof theirown equipment, maintenanceand fuel. Despitethis, teamsremaincommittedtorapid andprofessional emergencyresponseservices. Hikers areadvised to checkweather forecasts, carry extrawater andsnacks, pack basic first aidsuppliesand wear appropriatefootwear Rescue teamsstressthe importance of informingsomeone abouthikingplans andstaying on marked paths.

.In emergencies,call021 9370300

Closing

KEANANHARMSE

Risingtensionsinthe Middle East areonceagain redirectingglobalshipping trafficaroundthe southern tip of Africa,but localmaritime expert BrianIngpenwarns the countryisfailing to capitalise on theopportunity.

With instabilityaffecting keyroutes such as theSuezCanal andthreats to vessels in theRed Sea, more shipping companiesare avoiding traditional corridors andoptingfor thelonger journeyaroundthe Cape of Good Hope People’s Post spokewithIngpen, whoisalsoa historianthathails from Tokai, to hear histhoughtson whetherSimon’s Town couldbecome apotential stop-off pointfor bunkering/re-fueling in themidst of thewar Majoroperators like Maersk, CompagnieMaritimed'Affrètement –Compagnie Générale Maritime (CMA CGM) andHapag-Lloyd have alreadyscaledbackroutesthrough high-riskareas,contributingtoa noticeable rise in vesseltrafficoff South Africa’s coastline, accordingtosenior maritime security researcher Timothy Walker Whilesomeanalystslinkthe shiftto tensions around theStraitofHormuz, Ingpen argues themoreimmediate driver is thethreatposed by Houthi attacksonshipping near Yemen.

“The closureofthe Strait of Hormuz does notaffectthe Cape routedirectly.However,the Houthi rebels pose ahugethreattoshipping off Yemen,” he explained.

In lightofthis, he estimatesthatas many as 150ships aday,including regulartraffic, couldnow be passing around theCape.

FEWERSHIPSSTOPPINGDESPITE INCREASEDTRAFFIC

Despitethe surgeinpassing vessels, Ingpen cautions that expectations of go yf pt ag ty

Youngmusicians geta chanceto hone their skills

Youngjazzmusicians across the WesternCapecan nowapplyto showcase theirtalents at this year’s YouthJazzSeries, settotakeplace in June at Artscape TheatreinCape Town

Theevent will featureaspiringjazz soloists performing on Friday 12 June,followedbyschool jazz bands on Saturday 13 June

Originally launched in 2003 as the YouthJazzFestival, theprogramme hasexpandedsignificantly over the yearstomeet growinginterestand accommodate theexceptional talent of younglocal musicians.

Theproject combines performance opportunitieswithvaluablemasterclassprogrammesled by industry professionals. “Participantsbecome hubs of sustainablelearningasthey aregiven aplatformtovoice their owncreativitytoa captiveaudience whiletheyalsoget an opportunity to broadentheir horizons by experiencing themagic of live stage, lights, soundand an audience,” organisers said

Aspiring musiciansand instrumentalistsmustsubmitauditionvideos by Friday 17 April. Applicants must be 27 yearsold or youngerinthe year of participationand reside in the WesternCape.

Each applicantmustsubmita maximum of twoauditionvideos, each lasting3-4 minutes, featuringtwo jazz songsorstandards Selected candidates maybecontacted forliveauditions with theaudition panel, with amaximum of 15 minutes allocatedper candidate. Successful applicants must be availablefor masterclassesand all required rehearsals between Mayand June

. Contact slu@artscape.co.za foran entry form,then submit your audition video along with the entry form (which mustincludefullnameand surname).

in the play production, Meeting Murphy.

PHOTO:James Hagen

TwoemotionalplaysatMasque

KEANANHARMSE

VredehoekresidentGavin Werner is setto presenttwo intimate andemotionally charged productions, MeetingMurphy and Spanish Steps,atMuizenberg’sfamousMasqueTheatre tomorrowonWednesday 8April andSaturday 18 April.

Therenownedvolunteer-drivencommunity theatrewas foundedin1959byBertieStern

As aregisterednon-profitorganisation(NPO), thetheatre provides adiverse,accessiblevenue foramateur andprofessional productions, featuringa 170-seat main auditorium anda 60-seatfoyer stage, focusing on promotinglocal talent andinclusivity

Werner,who serves as writer anddirector of MeetingMurphy andwriter-performerin SpanishSteps,saysbothplays emergedfrom momentsinhis ownlifethatlingeredlongafter they hadpassed. “Experiences that didn’t go away,thatI kept reliving.Writing theplays became away of engaging with thatdirectly, not just thinking aboutit, butworking it through,” he said SpanishSteps play centresontwo menreconnectingafter ahistory of bullying in theiryouth —a dynamicthatresurfaceswithunsettlingimmediacy. Werner notesthatthiscollapseoftime is somethingmanywillrecognise.“Youcan grow andchange, butthenwalkintosomething like aschool reunionand suddenly feel like the same versionofyourselfyou were yearsago.”

At theheart of MeetingMurphy is ataleof revenge, redemption,and theblurredboundariesbetween victim andperpetrator

People move between thoseroles,often without realisingit,”hesaid.

In contrast, SpanishSteps leansmoretoward comedicdrama whilestill tackling weighty themes of masculinity, memory,and fatherhood.Drawing directly from hisown life, Werner describesthe performanceaslessabout acting andmoreabout honesty. “It’snot about building acharacter.It’sabout bringing myself to it as truthfully as possible,”hesaid.

As adirector, Werner encouraged hiscastto avoidartificial performances andinstead connect personally with thematerialand each other.The script for MeetingMurphy even evolved during rehearsals,shapedbythe instinctsand inputofthe actors

Keycollaborators in this processincluded Dianne Simpson, whohelpedshape early drafts,aswellasMatthew du Bois andChris vanRensburg, whowereinvolvedfrominitial excerpts.Morerecently, BrentPalmerjoined thecast, bringing what Werner describesas a“sharp, questioningeye”thathelpedrefine the finalproduction. Theresultistheatre that prioritisesimmediacy andtruth over polish “There’s somethingpowerful aboutrecognising somethingyou haven’tquite putintowords yourself,” he says

Staged in theintimatesetting of TheMasque Theatre, theproductions aimtodissolvethe distance betweenperformer andaudience. “You can’thidebehindspectacle,” Werner explains “Everythingisimmediate, andthe audience becomespartofit.”

on for erformers

WILL PLACE YOUNG TALENT RADAROFTALENT OUTS

Rather than presenting clear-cutmoral categories,Wernerchallenges audiencestoreconsiderhow theseroles evolve over time “Wetendtolikeclean categories butinreality, especially in formativeyears,it’sfar more fluid.

Ultimately,hehopes audiencesleave notwith answers, butwithrecognition .“If people leave slightly unsettled, butmoreaware,” he says, “thenthe play hasdoneits job.” Fordetails call ChristineSkinnerat082 855 7277.

ced. opportunityinfront of afestivalaudience es valuable exposure,helps buildconfieand places youngartists on theradar of scouts andindustryroleplayers eare exciting prizes at stake. Thewinner es R10000, therunner-up R3 000 and sR1500 forthe participantwho finishes dplace eoverall winnerwillalsobeinvited to mina Suidoosterfees production next ,while apromising dancer mayreceive a me bursaryatDance forAll. ndricks, whoisalsothe ChiefExecutive r(CEO) andArtisticDirectorofDance ll, said:“TheDance forAll training prome includes abursary valued at R12000 earfor students wishingtostudy full-time, enewable part-timeplacement,subject to ions.The programme provides high-qualance training andholisticlifeskills trainthis waywebuild students’confidence, ptheir dancetalentand expose them to opportunities.” le whowould like to entermustvisit oosterfees.com andcompletethe online apionform. Applications must be submitted eformofa videoofnolongerthanthree tes. Thecompetition is open to particisinthe province,and they areresponsitheirown transporttoworkshops and mances ications closeonFriday10April.Finalists announcedonMonday13April,and the orkshopwith finalistswilltakeplace on rday 18 Aprilfrom10:00 to 16:00atDance ll.

eTalentSearch finalround will take place nday 3May at 17:00duringthe Suidoostin Cape Town rany enquiriescontact AllisonHendricksat n@danceforall.co.zaorcall073 1922763.

Walk offersdogs promenade view

Dog lovers andtheir furry four-legged friendsare settotakeoverthe Sea PointPromenade on Sunday 12 Aprilasthe eighth annual Paws on the Promenadereturns in support of the MdzanandaAnimalClinicinKhayelitsha.

Thepopular dog-walk fundraiser, held in partnershipwithVondi’s Holistic PetNutrition, inviteshumansand theirfour-leggedfriends to struttheir stuff fora good cause.

Thewalkwilltakeplace from 09:00starting at theMouille PointLighthouse, the5-kmroute will stretchalong thepromenade to theSea PointSwimming Pool andback.

Shorterturnaroundpointswillalsobeavailable forthose whoprefera gentlerstroll.

Marcelle du Plessis, fundraising andcommunicationsexecutive andevent organiser, said last year’s eventsaw 295dogspartaking

Shesaidona budget of just R8 500they raised R37500, whichorganisershoped would increase this year

TheMdzananda Animal Clinicand Shelteris anon-profitorganisation(NPO) animal clinic in Khayelitshaserving an averageof22000 animalsper year throughconsultations,hospitalisation,general andorthopaedic surgeries, continuous sterilisations,mobileclinics,an animal ambulanceand homeless petshelter “Sadly,werecentlyreceivedthe news that our main funder will notberenewingany grants in SouthAfricanextyear,”saidDuPlessis.“This meansa loss of R250 000 permonth.Weneed to find replacementfunding andencourage everyone to join Paws on thePromenade to help with this.”

YOU’LL SEE DALMATIONS IN TUTUSAND DACHSHUNDS IN HOT-DOG

OUTFITS.

Shesaiditisa fun-filledevent.“People are very creative,dressing themselves andtheir dogs up in costumes.There will be dalmatians in tutus, dachshunds in hotdog outfits and pomeranianswithbow ties.”

CindyJacobson, managerofVondi,saidthe eventisone of thehighlightsofthe year

“The routeisone of themostscenicinCape Town making it awonderful walk fordogsand owners alike.

“Wesupport Mdzanandabecause of their excellent professionalismand theimpactthey make in theKhayelitsha community,educating petownersand treating sick pets that would otherwisehavelittletonohelp.”

TicketscostR50 perperson, R50per dogand R25for kids under12. Theseare availablefrom Quicketwww.qkt.io/pawsonprom2026oron theday from 08:30.

Raffleprizes, products sales, deliciouscoffee, food andcraftswillentertain patronsonthe day. The first100 dogs to arrive will also receive afreegoodiebag

Allpet owners areencouragedtodress up in adog outfitortowearsomething orange,the MdzanandaAnimalClinicbrand

Asmall number of homeless dogs will be availableto“rent”for awalkonthe day. Contact marcelle@mdzananda.co.za to book adog .Formoreinformation on Paws on the Promenadeemail info@mdzananda.co.zaorvisit www mdzananda.co.za.

Manypay outstanding fines

Trafficroadshows,hostedthree to four timesayear, have become one of themostpopular outreach programmes by the CityofCape Town, withmore motorists taking the opportunitytohavetheir traffic fines reduced.

At the most recent event in Athlone,over3600 individualsqueued to settle their fines andoutstanding warrants. Theroadshows areheldincollaboration with theCity’sMunicipal Courts, Revenue Services and other internal stakeholders. This ‘one-stop shop’initiativeisdesigned to providemotoristswith the convenienceofresolving outstanding trafficmatters, settle warrants, andnegotiate finereductions –allunder one roof.Duringthe six-day roadshow, more thanR4,1million waspaid in fines,withR11,5million recorded basedonrepresentations.

“The trafficfine roadshowisclearly growingin

popularityand our TrafficServicewillcontinue to take thesepayment opportunities to communities.

Theturnout is areminder oncemoreofthe sheer number of driving transgressions and relatedfines generated on adailybasis. So,whileweare grateful to those members of the public who have nowhandled their business, we sincerelyhope that the hours inthe queue andthe moneythat wasparted with areenough motivationtopay closer attention to the rulesofthe road.

"On the Easter long weekend with rampeduproad safety interventions, those who have clearedthe slatecan stop at roadblocks and vehiclecheckpoints with confidence. To everyone else,pleaseuse the existing fineand warrant payment channels to ensure ahassle-freelong weekend,” said Maycomemberfor safety and security, JP Smith

Some of the motorists who attendedthe recent roadshowinAthloneline up outside the venue to settle their fines.

PHOTO:SUPPLIED

Sergio Johnson of StanturfUnited from Mitchells Plain attempts to stealthe ball from AvuyileNjumbuxa of Hout Bayduring the Bruyns platesection semi-final at theBayhillpremier cup on Sunday05March. Hout Baywon 3-0onpenalties after the scores were deadlocked on 0-0 after regulation time PHOTO:RASHIED ISAACS

Chome groundswhenthe rugbyleagues startfor Super League,A,B andC on Saturday 11 Aprilafter theEasterWeekend.

Theleagueofficially startedfor teamswho confirmed theiravailabilityonSaturday28March,while theregions startedonSaturday21 March.

Theformatfor 2026 forSuper Leaguesfeaturesa newstructure whereeachleagueisexpandedto16 teamsinstead of the12sides Muslim clubsand tertiary institutionswereexemptfromplaying in theleagues of WesternProvince(WP) RugbyUnion duetothe MonthofRamadanand VarsityShieldand Varsity Cupcommitments Teamsplayedfriendliesuntil the

watchedbythe opponentsi therespectiveleagues as they are unfamiliar to thosewho stayed in the differentleagues.

Thecurrent league structurefor SuperLeagues AtoC remainswith theinclusion of an extrateamineach Superleagueasthe 16th team,based on rankings afterlastyears club rugbyseason.

Thethree teamsfromSuper Cwho were relegatedtothe regionsfor this year will remain in SuperC with the inclusionofthe winner, runners up andplayoff winnerofthe Promotion League of last year

At theend of the15round-robin matches, teamswillberankedaccordingtotheir position andthiswill determinethe structurefor the2027 Competition. Thetop team in each SuperLeague

will be theleaguewinner. Therewill be aseparatecompetition made up of topeight (President Cup) andbottom eightplay-offs(Challenger Cup) for each SuperLeague. This competition will be played on aknockoutbasis with no bearingonthe seedingfor next year

At theend of this season thebottom threeclubs in SuperLeagueC will be relegatedtothe Regional Leagues (Paarl, City,Northernand Southern).The topteamineachRegional League will be promoted to theSuper League C.

Allclubs ranked from 1to48, based on resultsinthisyear’sclubrugby season,willbeseeded in four new leaguesnextyear, consisting of 12 teamseach(SuperLeagueA,B,C

Regional competitions will be played on adoubleround,home-andaway basis, with thetop team in each region crownedleaguewinners and promoted to SuperLeagueD.Regional leaguescommenced on Saturday 21 March, andclubs arerequiredto field at leasta firstand second team,with thirdteams optional At theend of this season,the bottomfourteams in SuperLeague Cwillberelegated to theregional leagues. However, should thePaarl Region winnerdecline promotion to thenew SuperLeagueD,onlythe bottomthree teamswillberelegated Twoimportant scenariosteams in thedifferentleagues should rememberthisyear: next year each league will consistof12teams anda Super League Dwillcomeintoexistence Four teamswilldropfromSuper

in SuperC finish in thetop four

Theleagues are: SuperLeagueA: Villager, Hamiltons, FalseBay, Helderberg,SK-Walmers, Vander Stel-Evergreens, Durbell, Tygerberg, Ikeys,Maties, Uni-Mil, KuilsRiver, Brackenfell, UWC, Franschhoek and Primrose SuperLeagueB: AllSaints, Belhar,Bellville,Collegians, CPUT,Goodwood,Hamediehs, Hamlets, Hands& Heart, Kraaifontein,Macassar, NTK, St.Georges, Vineyards, Violetsand YoungPeoples SuperLeagueC: Atlantis,BusyBee, Caledonian Roses, Delft, Eersterivier,Gardens, Kylemore,Langa,Pniel-Villagers, Raithby-Universals,Rangers,ScottsdeneCentral,Sir Lowrians,Strand, Strand United andWatsonia