Thesetwo blue gumtrees in KoebergRoad—atthe end of the rowclosest to Durbanville’s central business district —havebeen poisoned.Theystand on theoppositeside of the wall from the first housein Dorstbergestate.See page 3for thearticleand morephotos PHOTO:ESMÉ ERASMUS
Atthe heart of the Andries Olivier Durbanville Quadriplegic Centre’s growing fundraisingbookshop is aremarkable woman whose passionfor bookshas transformed small beginnings into athrivingcommunity project.
Ilze Swart, aretired librarian, and her dedicatedteamofvolunteers have placed thesimple book projectatthe quadriplegic centre on the map.
“Withher wealthofexperience and deep love for books, shehas brought structure, vision and energytowhathas become one of ourmostsuccessful fundraising initiatives,” says RosabelleRiese, a resident involvedinthe book project.
“In afour-year journey of growth, structure and community support,the book project evolved from packed crates and boxes to apermanent bookshop,” she says.
SELECTINGBOOKSANDPACKINGCRATES
“Ilze has been instrumental in giving our booksa foreverhome.Inthe early days,
THURSDAY14MAY
. U3A Tygerbergwillmeet at Stellenberg-gemeente on thecorner of MountainViewDrive and Edelweiss Road.This month's speaker is Annemarievan Zyl from the Eseltjiesrus Donkey Sanctuary. Doorsopen at 09:00for teaand coffee.The speaker of the event takesthe floor from 10:00. R10 forU3A membersand R20 forvisitors.
SATERDAG16MEI
. Die Kaapse Woordwewershou hul eerste gedigtedag vir diejaarom14:00 by die DNA Cafe and Eatery,Langverwachtplein, Kuilsrivier. Dietemavir die gedigtedag is "2026isdie jaar vangroei". Bywoning is gratis. KontakTheron by 082975 6268 of samueltheron1@gmail.comvir meer inligting .TheWingsOverWinelands Airshowwilltaketothe skiesatVergelegenWineEstate, promising aspectacularday of aviation excellence, family entertainment andworld-classhospitality.This year’s flying programmewillrun from 10:00to15:00and will featurethe Marksman Aerobatic Display Team,the Raptors RV DisplayTeam, the Aérospatiale Gazelle and theiconic Aero L-29 Delfín jetdisplay.These acts willshowcasea mixofprecisionaerobatics, formation flying and fast jetperformance, with commentary provided by IanFraser. Visitorscan also enjoy wine tasting, gourmet food offerings, craftstalls and family-friendlyentertainment. Ticketsare available via Quicket.
SONDAG17MEI
. Wild BuggersBeach BuggyClubbiedsyWest Coast Cultural ExperienceRun aan. Deelnemers komom 09:00 by CheckersBothasigbymekaarensal stiptelik om 10:00vertrek. Die konvooisal langsdie R27ryna ’n Weskus-kultuurstop,waarbesoekers tussen selfbegeleideenbegeleide toer-opsieskan kies, voordatdie daginMelkbosstrand met roomys en ’n strandstap afsluit.Die geleentheidisoop vir alle eienaarsvan beachbuggies, BajaBugs, lugverkoelde Volkswagens en klassiekeVWKewer-gebaseerdevoertuie.
WOENSDAG20MEI
. Die TygerbergTuin- en Blommeklub kombyeen by dieNGkerkParow Welgelegen (LaProvencestraat 47,Welgelegen) om 09:30vir 10:00. Diesprekers is AltheaHigham,wat ‘n parallel-demonstrasiesal doen,enMarco Moorsvan Lowensvlei-blomplaas, wat oor snyblomme salpraat.Die tema vandie blommekunskompetisie is "Elegansie". Kontak Beatrix Lambert-Bestbier by 082873 9864 virmeer inligting of metnavrae.
TUESDAY26MAY
. TheEgyptianSociety of South Africa willbehaving their next meeting at St George's Grammarschool, RichmondRoad, Mowbray,from19:30.The guest speaker, IanDouglas, willpresent alecture titled: "Gizaand the BigDipperCorrelation".There is no charge formembers, whileitcosts R30for visitors. Refreshments R10.Booking is not necessary.There is secure parking in the schoolgrounds.For more informationonthe event,call021 8527273or084 7743972.
SATURDAY30MAY
. TheDianna JacksonFoundationwillhosta CommunityMarketDay from 10:00to15:00atthe SummerGreens Community Centre, 22 TinkersRoad, SummerGreens. Theevent will featurelocal vendors, food stalls,handmadecrafts, fashion, musicand family-friendlyentertainment. Formoreinformation aboutthe market day, contact CJ Jacksonon072 830 1966 (WhatsApp).
. Die Alta du Toit-sentrumbied'ngala-eteom18:30 by Lincolnstraat 80,Boston, Bellville,aan.Gastekan uitsienna'ndriegang-ete,lewendigevermaak en 'n veiling, asook 'n geheime geskenk. Die bekende seremoniemeester Anrich Herbst salversekerdat alles vlot en gesellig verloop. Kaartjiesisbeskikbaarteen R850 perpersoon.Bespreekper e-posnadonation@ altadutoit.org.za.
SUNDAY31MAY
. Discoverthe hidden secretsand relics of an abandoned WW2MilitaryBaseinLlandudno,during aspecial "TOPSECRET" Heritage Tunneland Bunker Tour forTourism Month. Thetrail starts at the bigGun inApostlesBattery Llandudno at 10:30, and willend in thesamespot.Explorersneedtobewalking fit,as thereare stepsand obstaclestohurdleand laddersto climb. Childrenneedtobeaccompanied by an adult. Space is limited to 20.Ticketsare R295 per person. Email Mattaatmattweisse@mweb.co.zatobookor formoreinformation.
SATURDAY6JUNE
. TheCapeTownGem and MineralClub'snextopen daytakes placefrom10:00 to 14:00 at 14aGoede HoopSt, Bothasig. Entryisfree. Learnmoreabout ourhobby of crystals,gems, and mineral specimen collecting, and relatedcraftwork.Trawl the stalls, chat to membersand find your special item. Plenty of off-roadparking. Food available.
DESIRÉERORKE
DESIREE.RORKE@TYGERBURGER.CO.ZA
Inthe wake of the South AfricanProperty Owner's (Sapoa's)landmarklegal victory against the City of Cape Town over the 2025-'26 budget, growing calls have emerged demanding that the City refund property ownersfor thecontested charges that havebeen levied upon them since 1July 2025.
However, in anotice to itsmembers, Sapoa chiefexecutive officer Neil Gopal statedthatSapoa did not,for several reasons askthe court to order arefund of any of theimpugned charges paid by residents.
"When Sapoa launched thelegal challenge in July 2025, serious consideration was giventoalso asking thecourt to orderthe City to refund any of theimpugned chargesalready paid by residents. This was decided against for a number of reasons,"hesays.
"Firstly, it would be extremely difficult to askthe courttoorder such arefund. When acourt grants an order, it must be able to ensure thatthe order is properly compliedwith.The court would have had great difficultyinensuringthat the City indeedrefunds every resident, making contemptproceedings, in the event that theCity fails to comply with the order, nearly impossible."
RISKOFANUNFUNDEDCITYBUDGET
Secondly, he says, ordering arefund would haveleft the City withanunfunded budget, in the sense that revenues which it anticipatedreceiving, would not only havetobeforfeited, but reimbursed to residents. This would be contrary to theprovisionsofthe Municipal Finance Management.
"The City would therefore have been facedwith asignificantrevenue shortfall," says Gopal."Noneofthe other parties to thelitigation asked forsuch relief either. GOOD Party, who had intervened in thematter, alsodid not ask for such relief. Accordingly, in the event that theCity applies for leave to appeal the judgment,there can be no cross-appeal to requesta refund, as the relief had not previously been sought by any party and subsequently denied by the Court.”
In arelated development, BrettHerron, secretary-general of the GOOD Party and member of the Western Cape Parliament,
stated that should the City of Cape Town choose to appeal last week's full-bench Western Cape High Court judgment, which declared itsfixed cleaning, water and sanitation tariffs unlawful, such amove would not suspend the binding effect of the ruling. This is in accordance with the legal advice he received.
"Thecourt ordered the City to dump itsunlawful charges by the end of June, which is also the date by which the City must adopt its2026-'27 budget.
“Whether the City appeals the judgement or not, it has no option but to drop the unlawful tariffs until asuperior court overturns the judgement. This will certainly not happen before the end of next month,"says Herron.
In aletter addressed to the City’s legal representatives, the GOOD Party requestsurgent transparency from the City regarding itsbudgetary intentions to mitigate the risk of legal delays.
Herron says should the City be advised to accept the court judgement and order, as it should, the City is required by law and the court’sorder to take steps to remedy the consequences of itsunlawful conduct.
“The effective remedy is to reverse these unlawfully imposed charges.
“Ordinary residentsofCape Town cannot be expected to have paid unlawfully imposed charges. Ourclient calls on the City to explain how it will go about reversing the unlawfully imposed charges. This could include crediting municipal accounts.”
Cape Town’s Safety andSecurity Directorateisworkingclosely with City of Cape Town services to manage and respond to hundreds of incidents reported in thewakeofamassive frontal system that struck Cape Town this week, the City said.
Between06:00 and09:30 on Monday morning, thePublic Emergency Communication Centre (PECC) received just over 950 calls.
Weather-relatedincidentsdominated, with downed trees, motor vehicle accidentsand power issues were among themostfrequently reported concerns.
Over theweekend, the PECC recorded 1220 calls for assistance.Ofthese, 64 were related to physical assault, 29 to domestic violence, andemergency services were dispatchedto44motor vehicle and pedestrian accidents.
The City’s Fire and Rescue Service has madeavailable its wildland firefighters to assist with clearing tree debris across the
city where needed.
Theservice has also made its heavy rescue crane available to help remove fallen trees, the City said.
Disaster Risk Management is spearheading aDisaster Operations Centre in Goodwood, which brings together all City departments, utilities and other role players.
“Our officers are doing duty at intersections, assisting where roads have been closed due to flooding or fallen trees, and responding to calls for help. We are supporting other departments and lending ahand where possible. Iwant to encourage residentstostay indoors where possible, take extra precautions on the road if you have to go out and report incidentsimmediately. Your safetyiswhat matters most, so do not take risks,”said Mayco member for safetyand security JP Smith.
. Residentsare urgedtoreport emergenciesby dialling 021480 7700
The deliberatepoisoning oftwo historicbluegumtrees in Koeberg Road in Durbanvillelast Sunday evening—opposite the entrance to D’Urbanvale, had irate residents up in arms last week.
The culprit was caught red-handed when aresident of D’Urbanvale drove past on Sunday 3May at about17:50 and saw how hedrilled holes into oneofthe trees. It was reportedtoanauxiliary law enforcement officerofthe City of Cape Town, accordingtoaspokesperson of the City’s recreation and parks department.
The vehicleofthe suspect, awhite bakkie with awhite canopy andCBSregistrationnumber (Mossel Bay or Hartenbos) was spottedparked near thetrees. Awhite bakkie with aCBSregistrationnumber was later seenparked in front of ahouseinDorstberg Estate, the secured complexatthe other side of thewallofthe row of bluegum trees in Koeberg Road.
The auxiliary law enforcement officer investigated thetrees about45minutes later andremoved the white herbicide pellets (similar to theherbicide Scatter Kill for Weeds), whichwas administered to the holes, presumably to kill the trees, he said. Heinformedthe City’s recreation andparksdepartment of the incident.
TygerBurger was told thata charge will be laid withDurbanville police once enough evidence hasbeen gathered, buton enquiry to the policelastweek, acharge wasnot laid yet.
“The department drilled larger holes frombelow into the existing holes the next day to furtherremove the herbicide to prevent thetrees from taking up the poison, and alsotoprevent water from accumulating inside the tree, causing the woodtodecay,” according to the spokesperson.The trees are the property of theCity of Cape Town as they are located on apublic road verge. The department’s compliance unit is also
Asignificant turning point came in June 2022 with the arrival of thefirstcontainer donatedbyBreadline Africa—complete with built-in shelving and awheelchairaccessible ramp built by the QuadPara Association Western Cape.
An additional container arrived two years later —adonation by Vicky Oosthuizen.
Renovations were carried out by Vicky and Nick Price of GAP Aluminium, with a generous donation of shelving by Graham and Verna Moore, installed by Annamarie Mostert.
“These all created afunctional and accessible bookshop space. With careful planning and coordination, Ilzeoversaw the transition from packed boxes to fully shelvedand categorised stock,” Riese continues.
Today, the container bookshop, together with the neatly arranged R5 section inside the house, offersaninviting and accessible space for visitors.
Launched in November 2022 with a vibrant R5 sale, the project has continued to grow from strength to strength.
Books are meticulously sorted, priced and shelved, with even the R5 section arranged alphabetically —“asmall detail that speaks volumes about Ilze’s dedication andattention to detail”, Riese says “Ilzecoordinates everyaspectofthe donation process —from sorting and categorising to pricing and shelving. Nothing escapes her carefulattention. She alsohas aremarkable ability to identify hidden gemsand valuable collectibles. One such treasure, Die MeelblomToer, wasdiscovered by her and later sold at thecentre’s Golf Day auctionfor an impressive R3 000,” Riesesays
“Onbook market days, held every second Saturday of the month atHuis Andries Olivier, Ilze adds her personal touch through thoughtfully curated displays of unique and valuable finds.
“These selections attract keen interest both at the centre and through her connections with Friends of the Library organisations in Bellville andDurbanville.
“Throughthese networks,she continues to match books withthe rightbuyers, further boosting fundsfor the centre. Having built lasting relationshipsover many years, Ilze draws on awide network of book lovers and collectors. We benefit greatly from these connections, which have added both value and reach to the project.”
At the core of thissuccess isadedicated team of volunteers whose camaraderie and
IlzeSwart,a retired librarian, turned the simplebookproject at AndriesOlivierDurbanville Quadriplegic Centreintoa thriving community-driven fundraiser
humour bringthe project to life.
As Gillian Watsonjokingly remarked, “I’m aretired chief executive officer and now I’m cleaningshelves andfloors!”
Alongside Gillian andWillie Watson, ElizedeJagerand Annamarie Mostert continue to play an invaluable role, supported by others who assist with lifting, sorting, transporting and maintaining thespace.
“We are truly grateful for Ilze’slabour of love —her leadership, dedication and generous spirit.
“Her legacy liesnot only in the thousands of books she hasorganised,but in the system shehas built, the people she hasinspiredand thelasting difference she continues to make. ‘Kom kyk na ons winskopies,’ sheoften encourages,and thanks to her, there is always something specialwaiting to be discovered.
“Rainorshine, Ilze is there. Her commitment is unwavering, herapproach consistent. Whenaskedabouther involvement, she simply says, ‘I enjoy what I’m doing. With abit of orderand alovefor books, we can turn something simple into something meaningfulfor the centre.
“While hercontributionis immeasurable, Ilze is alsomindful of thefuture. Shehas begun sharing her knowledge andsystems with De Jager and Mostert, ensuring continuity and sustainability for the project.
“It’s notjust aboutbooks. It’s about people, relationships andcreating something worthwhile together,”Swart explains het passion.
“We also acknowledge the original book project committee, whose early effortslaid astrong foundation, as well as the many volunteerswho havecontributed along the way.
“Over the past four years, this initiative hasgrown through true community involvement. As the saying goes, ‘Rome wasnot built in aday’, but the collective effort of many hasgiven this project and thecentre an immense and lastingboost,” Riese concludes.
The centre welcomesdonations of books.Book lovers are invited to visit on Tuesdaysand Thursdays between 10:00 and15:00, or to join the monthly book marketheld on thesecondSaturdayof each month at Huis Andries Olivier, 18 Hafele Street, Durbanville, from 09:00 to 14:00.
. Contact Allen(WhatsApp078 3935924) or Terence(WhatsApp 082224 5454).
KAILINDANIELS
KAILIN.DANIELS@NOVUSMDIA.CO.ZA
Inaquiet courtroom in theWestern Cape High Court, history wasmade not by ajudge or lawyer,but by a gentle golden retriever named Toffee.
As a14-year-old boy prepared to testify againsthis own father in the rape and murder trialof8-year-old Daniel Jamneck, the3-year-old therapy doglay calmly beside him, offering silent reassurance duringone of the mosttraumatic moments of thechild’slife.
TheApril 2026 testimony marked the first time atherapy dog had accompanied achild witness in aSouth African criminal court, abreakthrough many child-trauma specialists hope could transform how vulnerable children experience the justicesystem.
For the teenager,who was present at thescene of Daniel’sdeath in Peerless ParkNorth, Kraaifontein, in June 2023, thecourt appearance was more than just giving evidence.
It meantrevisitingatraumatic night while speaking publicly against his father, whoisfacingcharges of murder, rape and sexualassault. Daniel wasfound dead in theaccused's bed following asleepover in Kraaifontein in Cape Town on 15 June 2023.
Toffee doggedly remained by the teenager's side as this wasrelated to the court.
The ideaoftherapy dogs supporting child witnesses haslongbeen used in countries suchasthe United States, but South Africa had yet to take that step.
For Edith Kriel, executive director of theJelly Beanz Foundation,ithad been a dream decades in the making.
“I haveworked in the child protection sector now for 32 years and across my whole career I’ve to some extent worked within thesexualoffences courts.”
Shesaid major improvements have been made overthe years to make courts less intimidating for children, including childfriendly rooms andintermediaries who helpfacilitatetestimony.
“But thereality is that if you’reakid and you’ve experienced something really traumatic,whenyou go back to court in astrange environment… you have to sit down and thinklike avideo in your head of that traumatic experience and then put that into words.
“You’realso sometimes asked to defend your answers or made to feel like you’re not telling thetruth. Kids have areally hardtime.”
Kriel believes therapy dogs can bridge that emotional gap.
“The role of atherapy dog during testifying is really to create asense of safety forthe child, asense of ‘I’ve got somebody on my side’.
“This beautiful animal is here with me. They’re notjudging me when Itell thestories of all the yucky things that happened to me.They just think I’m amazing.”
Trauma experts saychildren who testify in court often relive their experiences physically and emotionally. Fear, anxiety and stress can overwhelm the nervous system, makingitdifficultfor children to thinkclearly or answer questions coherently.
Kriel said therapy dogs help regulate thoseemotional responses.
“That kind of non-judgmental, calm, safe presence helps children feel safer. It calms theirnervous system
“Andwhen your nervous system is calmer,the parts of your brain that do the thinkingand come up with the words can work better.”
Duringthe in-camera testimony on 29 April Toffeeremained closetothe teenager throughout proceedings, helping himfindthe strength to continue.
Krieldescribed the moment as deeply emotional, saying thechild visibly relied
on the dog’s presence during difficult parts of his testimony.
“Tomyknowledge Toffee is the first dog that has successfully gone through the process with achild,”she said.
But she stressed the achievement was not hers alone.
“It’snot just ameprocess. We need prosecutors on board who are willing to take it on, put in applications and step outside of the norm. There’sawhole team behind it.”
MORETHANJUSTACOMFORTINGPET
Toffee is not simply afriendly dog wandering through therapy sessions. She is acertified “fur-therapist” at the Jelly Beanz Foundation, aTable Viewbased non-profit organisation dedicated to helping children affected by trauma, abuse and neglect.
Founded in 2009, Jelly Beanz provides therapy services, develops trauma resources, trains professionals working with children and advocates for better support systems for vulnerable young people.
Theorganisation’swork is rooted in a grim national reality.
According to Jelly Beanz one in three SouthAfrican children is sexually abused before the age of 18.
"Boys are just as vulnerable to abuse as girls. Eighty-two percent of children have been directly exposed to violence in their homes or communities."
Against that backdrop therapy animals are becoming powerful tools in rebuilding trust and emotional safety.
“Children who have experienced trauma often feel ashamed, disconnected or different from others,” the organisation pointed out.
“Dogs offer unconditional acceptance. No words are necessary.”
Therapists say children frequently communicate emotions indirectly through the dog, sometimes revealing feelings they struggle to express themselves.
Achild may say, “Toffee is feeling sad today,” when in realitythey are describing their own emotional state.
CARRYINGONAHEALINGLEGACY
Kriel hoped the court breakthrough will inspire others to build similar programmes rather than relying solely on one dog or one organisation.
As the Daniel Jamneck trial continues Toffee’s quiet presence has already left alasting mark on SouthAfrica’s justice system.
For years the focus in criminal courts has understandably centred on evidence, procedure and legal outcomes.
Reddam House Durbanville has delivered one of its strongest Cambridge international performances to date in the November 2025 examination series —achievinga total of 15 Cambridge awards, including an exceptional four Top in the World distinctions. This marks the highest number of Top in the World awardsin the school's history and positions Reddam House Durbanville among the leading Cambridge schools in South Africa.
The Outstanding Cambridge Learner Awards programme celebrates the success of learners taking Cambridge examinations in over 40 countries around the world.
Reddam House Durbanville's strengthinmathematics was underlined with three learners achieving 100% in thesubject across International General Certificate of Secondary Education (IGCSE) and AS Level.
The four Top in the World awards were achieved by: Mia Ivan in AS Level mathematics (100%) and AS Level accounting; Karli Kennard in AS Level mathematics; and Sebastian Herbert in IGCSE mathematics (100%).
Mia also achieved first place in South Africa for Best Across Four AS Level subjects, placing her among the top-performing Cambridge students nationally. She is currently pursuing a degree in chemical engineering at Stellenbosch University, where she continues to excel.
Karli is already studying actuarialscience at Stellenbosch University. Sebastianis pursuing actuarial science, withapplications submitted locally and the option toexplore international study.
STUDYATUNIVERSITYOFCAMBRIDGE
Among the other exceptional achievers, Youkyum Kim secured Top in South Africa awards for ALevel mathematics and AS Level computer science. He has received an offer to study mathematics at theUniversity of Cambridge andiscurrently completing accelerated ALevels infurther mathematics and physics in preparation for his studies.
Current Grade 12learners LukholoMgudlwa and Kai Mallela,bothTop in South Africa awardrecipients, have appliedto studymedicine at theUniversity of Cape Town andStellenbosch University.
TOPINSOUTHAFRICAAWARDS
Other Reddam House Durbanville learners whohave achieved TopinSouth Africa awards:Lukholo Mgudlwa –IGCSE biology and IGCSE music (High Achievement Award); KaiMallela –IGCSE physics; Boni Yan –IGCSEEnglish first language; Asmaa Thomas –IGCSE business studies; Kenah Seba –IGCSEart and design; Yafei Wang –ASLevelChinese
language (High Achievement Award); OliverCloete –IGCSE ForeignLanguage Spanish (High AchievementAward).
AMILESTONEYEAR
Barry Nieuwoudt, executive head,says in amedia release the results reflect both exceptional student performance and sustained teaching excellence.
"Theseresults represent a significantmilestone for Reddam House Durbanville
“Achieving ourhighest number of Top in the World awards,particularly with such outstandingresults in mathematics, speakstothe calibre of our learners and thestrength of our academic programme. We areequally proudofthe breadthof achievement acrosssomany subjects, whichreflects our commitment to developing well-rounded,high-performing learners prepared for success both locally and internationally."
Ravi Nadasen, CEO of Inspired Education Group Africaand theMiddle East, adds:"The achievementsofReddam House Durbanville's studentsreflect thedepth of academic excellence acrossthe Inspired group. Results of this calibre, across multiple subjects andlevels, demonstrate the strengthofour teaching and the abilityofour learners to compete at thehighest international standards."
AlearneratCurro Durbanville High School haswon gold in her age categoryinthe Western Cape Schools Chess High School Individual Provincial Championship 2026, whichtook place last weekend in George Imkhita Joya represented the Cape Town Metro teamatthe Western Cape championships and came firstinthe girls u-15 category. Another teammember, Mila Snyman, alsoofCurro Durbanville High School, came second in the girls u-15 category. Third was Sophia Hagen, a
learner at PaarlGirls' High School andamember of the Cape Winelands team.
Hostedfrom 2to3May, the championship featured u-15, u-17 and u-20divisions for both boys andgirls, with playerscompeting in asix-round Swiss format.
TheCape TownMetro team alsodominated in the boys u-15 categorywithMicah Fredericks, whoishome-schooled, in first place,Shaurya Singh from Milnerton High School second, and Chase Salimu from Curro Durbanville High School third.
Having knitted and crochetedmore than 7000 beanies since the group started, the Durbanville Knitting Ducks mark three yearsofcaring community service this year.
The group,which meets every Tuesday at Durbanville Library, has grown into ameaningful communityinitiative, withmembers gathering weekly to knit and crochet for causes thatmakea real difference, says René Walker, area head: east of library and information services of the City of Cape Town's community services and health department.
GIVINGBACKTOTHECOMMUNITY
For the Durbanville Knitting Ducks, their third birthday marks three years of friendship, creativity and giving back to the community.
The group,which was started by Gail Leask, coordinator of the group, with only four members after she put up anoticeon the noticeboard at the library, now boasts 28 dedicated members.
orderly. The children hold on to them as they learn,but in the real court,the dogs can’t be present, accordingtotheir website.
They aimtogive every child acrocheted or knitted pupthatwill accompanythem intocourt.
"We would like eachchild to choose which realdog will be ‘theirs’ and give themtheirown cuddly version that will remind them of love and smilesand courage," accordingtotheir website.
"In this way, the Durbanville Knitting Ducks extend their reach beyond babies, contributingtoprojects that bring comfort and care to others," Walkersays
Returning to my old school recently brought back memories Ihad not thought aboutinmany years.
Ihad dropped my nephew off anda wave of nostalgia hit me. It felt asthough Ihad stepped into my younger self's world which was full of hope, dreams and determination. Iremembered sitting in those small bluechairs, staring out the windows and imagining afuturefar bigger than thecommunity. Even as achild,I knew there was more. Ikneweducation could unlock opportunities.
Icome from apoor background. My parents worked hard and there were many things we simply could notafford. I neverarrived at school wearing the latest fashiononcivvies day.Sometimes paying school fees felt impossible formyparents butthey never allowed our financial situation to become an excuse. Education was non-negotiable in our home. My parents remindedmethat no one could takeknowledge awayfrom me They believed education could change the direction of my life. Lookingback now, I realisethe sacrifices they made to ensure
my sister and Ihad that opportunity.They may not have been able to give us material things, but they gave us discipline, encouragement and areason to strive My way of thanking them was simple, Iworked hard.Istudied,respected my teachers and made sureIachieved good marks. Iknew that every test passed and every report card improved brought me one step closer to abetter future.
Today as Iwatch learnersmaking their way to school in the morning,I cannot help but feelconcerned. On some days it is already 08:30and some are strolling to school with no sense of urgency. Some look disengaged and uninterested.It makes me wonder what haschanged. Have our young people become disconnected? Or are they simply overwhelmed by the realities they face daily?
Today's learners are growing up in aworld filledwith distractions, social pressures and uncertainty. Many are exposed to unemployment, violence, povertyand social media influences that can easily make education feel less important. For some, it maybedifficult to dream about the future when survival feels like the priority. This iswhy motivation cannot come from schools alone. Parents, communities, teachers and mentors all have arole to playin shaping young minds. Children need to see examples of perseverance. They need encouragement and guidance. Most importantly, they need hope. We cannot expect young people to value education if society appears to undervalue their potential.Sometimesall it takes is one teacher, one family member or one opportunity to inspireachild.
Iwish those in power would take up that challenge. How many leadershavewalked throughthe halls of their former schools and asked themselves what they could do to create lasting change there?Build more schools, morelibraries and saferspaces for learning. Invest in these future leaders and give them areason to be excited Create opportunities that make learners eager to get to school because they can see afuture waiting for them beyond the classroom.
As Ileft the school that day, Irealised the classrooms are still filled with dreamers, children with untapped potential waiting to be nurtured. The challenge ismaking sure they do not lose sight ofthose dreams beforethey evenbegin.
-KAYLYNNE BANTOM
CLIMBERSUNITEFORWCCHARITIES: Runners and hikers tackledPlatteklipGorge during the annual Cableway CharityChallengeonTableMountain.So farthis year they have raised over R964 000 that willhelppower the life-saving and community-driven work of four organisations: VolunteerWildfireServices (VWS),Wilderness Search andRescue (WSAR),Ubuntu Football Academyand SANParksHonorary Rangers.The publiccan stilldonateuntil Sunday 17 May.To pledge support,visit:www charitychallenge.co.za
PHOTO:NICK JOUBERT
Hoe seer is seer?
Ek wens ek konvandag(Sondag10Mei) se trane —dié watoor my wangerol,asook die watdie padinwaarts kies —in'nemmer opvang.Ekwil seer meet Ek is heel,maar terselfdertyd stukkend. Ons is té geneig om voor te geedat als"oukei" is.
Soveel mensevier Moedersdag, maar vir baie van onsishierdie 'n diep seer dag.
Nesek, is daar soveel vanons watnie meer 'n mamma het nie.Die uitsoek én opmaak van'nspesiale geskenkie; die beplanning van'nheerlikesamesyn vir diehelegesin; en die dek van'npragtigetafel vir'n spesialepersoon ontbreek die eregas is niemeer met onsnie Mygedagtesbly dwaal oor al die verskillende seer watvandaginhou: My hartsvriendinne watnie kinders konbaar nie;dié watkinders konaanneem, maar ook dieuitdagingswat saam met dit komindie gesig staar;elkeliewe mamma watstruikel om kinders alleen groottemaak, omdat pappavroeg sy engelvlerkies gekryhet;die watmoet baklei vir onderhoudsgeld;die watdie pa-rol moet vervul weens'nonbetrokkepa; diewat baklei teen 'n regstelsel watsyeie tydneem sodat geregtigheid kangeskied. Ek dink ookaan die mammas watmoet sterk staan teen tieners watinopstand kom, watraadop,moeg of weerloos is;endie vrouenswat onder 'n hand deurge-
loop hetensukkelomhaar waardigheid en plek in die samelewingtevind, omdat sy die keusegemaak het dat genoeg genoeg is.
Dis julle.Dis ons. Hierdie is die ma's vandie wêreld watvandaggesalueer moet word,maar watsoms so misgekykword. Ons draswaar.Ons skouers hang bietjie vooroor,ensoms komons vaal en onopvallend, verstrooid en vergeetagtig voor.Daar is storms wat nooit ophou raas nie. Daar is mensewat luister,maar nooit hoor nie. Wees assebliefnet genadig!
En vir die watwonder of God nogwakkeris. wanneer jy dit die minsteverwag, komverras Hy jou met 'n helderkleurigeEva wathaar ontferm oor'n alleen-mamma.
Daardie spesialevroue wiesehartesagterassag is; diéwat metsoveeldeernis en egtheid onsvrouwees, deuraldie krake, raaksien. Dis daardie Evawat inspring en 'n pakkie posofjou kinders nader trek om ietsie spesiaals vir jou te beplan,ofvir jou die styfstevan styfstedrukkiegee en so ekstrabietjie langer vashou.
Magelkegebrokemoederhart geliefdvoel onder haar eie omstandighede en magdaar iewers 'n teken vir jou wees dat jy waardig mamma is. As jy nie voor jou kinders wilhuil nie. is vandagdalkjou dagwat jy dit kanloslaat terwyl jy saam met hulle deur die reën hardloop.Glo in jouself, ystervrou! Irushka, BRACKENFELL
Therecent “snot klap”mayor Geordin Hill-Lewisand his DA compatriots received in theHigh Court has reference.
Formonths we,the ratepayers of Cape Town, have berated himfor usingthe middle-class as avehiclefor apolicyofcross subsidisinghis socialist programme Nowthe courts have agreed with us andwhat does this young man do?Hetries to shame the ratepayers, who payhis inflated salary,intofeelingashamed for notagreeing to hisoutdated socialist agenda.Wedid not agreetoanunfunded spending spree on our dime to help him in avote-buyingcampaign
One wouldhavethought that during hisvarsity yearsheand hismanagementteamwouldtake cognancyofMaggie Thatcher’s famous words: “The problemwith socialism is that eventually yourun out of otherpeople’smoney”. And in 2025-’26 he and his team haverun out of money becausethisyearCoCT plans to borrowR1,2billion just to payfor previous years’ excessive spending.
In plainspeaking it meansborrowingmoremoney
to payfor borrowingprevious years,whilst spending moneytheydon’t have!Inwhatuniverse do these peoplelive?
We have seen howmunicipalities, including the City treatthe solidmiddleclass as agift that keepsgiving, hencethe increasing ratestaxation year on year.And year on year thesemunicipalities placatetheir staff andthemselveswith annual salary increaseswith no reciprocal performanceincreasesbecause the middle classkeep funding their ridiculous plans. Typically like trying to provide brick andmortar houses to anyeconomic migrant who ends up without ahouse. And howdoes he plan to generatemore money? By increasingyour propertyvalue andrates purely on the basis of properties sold in your area,i.e youare taxedon“unearned profits”,the exactprinciple the British parliament struck down when Keir Starmer andRachel Reeves tried it Do youthink the mayorwillheed ourcalls?Idon’t think so Francois JMarais, DURBANVILLE
In the TygerBurger of 6May 2026 residents of Table View andMilnerton arequotedstating that the recent stingray birthing incident shows that the clean-up efforts arestartingtobeeffectiveand gives renewed hope that the lagoon is slowly coming back to life HowIwish that this were true!
But what we witnessedonWednesday29April is that ashort-tail stingray femalewas stranded on the beachand through stress spontaneouslyaborted24 pups. Thesetinyreplicas of their mother stillhad their yolk sacs, whiletheir gills andother organs were not fullydevelopedyet
Sadly, theywerenot viableand none of them survived despitethe best efforts of communitymembers andrepresentatives of the TwoOceansAquarium. We canonlybut hope that at leastthe mother,who was escorted back intothe deep by the aquariumstaff, managed to recoverand survive.
Is the heart-rendering lotofthesemagnificent creatures notjust another illustration of howthe volume of sewage that the CityofCape Town discharges into the oceankills marine life,degrades critical habitats, andharms the ecosystems on whichhumansdepend fortheir ownsurvival?
On Milnertonbeach dead fish, molluscs, crustaceans, starfish, jellyfishand birds, besides disgusting washed-up rubbish, bear witness to decreased dissolvedoxygeninthe lagoon andsea andthe wide array of toxic pollutants contained within sewage Please,Cityand Mayor, the cityneeds to work forour sea.
LViljoen,MILNERTON
As burst pipe repairs areundertaken, the huge question is:isthis departmentnot reporting their recent workmanship to, Ipresume, another department to do proper repairs to coverthe massivepotholes? Rainyseasonisupon us, andwith the expected downpours, the huge potholes willbecome camouflaged. Thepreventivemeasures to restoresafetyfor allroadusers is of utmostimportance Many unnecessaryincidents need to be avoided. Thesolutionisworking hand in hand with the different departments, who as mentioned “chopup” the surfaces andthose who “repair”the chopped up surfaces. Safety please,for allroadusers TessaLuck,GOODWOOD
Cape Town's three marine outfalls at Camps Bay, Green Point andHoutBay continue to meet regulatory requirements, with the latest monitoringconfirming that surrounding coastal waters remain within recommended limits for recreational use The findings were presentedat the Permit Advisory Forum on 24 April.
Monthly monitoring conducted between January and March this year shows that coastal water quality remains within recommended guidelines, confirming that the outfalls are not negatively affecting recreational water quality at nearby beaches. The City of Cape Town said
during this period, 477 seawater samples were collected around the three outfalls. More than 98% of samples complied with guideline limits, confirmingthat naturaloceanprocesses continue to effectively dilute anddisperse treated effluent as designed.
Asmallnumber ofexceedances –approximately 1,7%– were recorded, mainly within the immediatemixing zones offshore andclose to the outfall discharge points, where occasional elevated readingsare expected.
Allthree marine outfalls remained fully operational during the reportingperiod, withnoenvironmentalincidents recorded. Marine conditions remain stable and well
oxygenated, while infrastructure continues to perform as designed.
InternalCity laboratory results and independently audited external laboratory results show strongoverall compliancewith permit limits:
. Camps Bay: 91,9% (City samples), 98,5% (Auditor samples)
. Green Point: 88,1% (City samples), 100% (Auditorsamples)
. Hout Bay: 96,8% (City samples), 100% (Auditorsamples)
ZahidBadroodien,Mayco member for water andsanitation, said theresults confirmed that theoutfalls were operating as required.
The Artscape TheatreCentre will mark 55 yearsofperformance and transformation on Tuesday19 May, amilestone that speaksnot only to the myriad productions staged within its walls,but also to the storyofacountryin transition.
Opened in 1971 as the Nico Malan Theatre, aspace reserved foraselect few under apartheid, it has sinceevolved into acultural home forall South Africans.This anniversary, celebrated under the theme "A Placefor All",honoursthat long and significant journey.
Theanniversaryprogramme launches at 11:00 on 19 Maywith the unveiling of a memorywallentitled "BecomingArtscape —aplace reborn", followedbyan open press conferencetowhich the publicisalso invited.
At 12:00,everyone is encouraged to take part in ahistoric photograph on the steps of the building. Themorningconcludes with afreelunchtime concert at theArtscape OperaBar,running until 13:30. Performing at the concert willbe four school bands: Mbekweni CMA, Cedar High
ANNIVERSARY CELEBRATIONS SEES TICKETS DISCOUNTED
School, RhodesHigh School andAthlone Schoolfor the Blind. Admissionisfree, and allare welcome.
Thelunchtime concertseries formspart of Artscape's ongoing commitmentto access,championedunder theleadership of CEOMarlene le Roux
Theseconcertshavebecome aregular andmuch-lovedfeature,offering many theirfirst experience of live performance insidethe theatre, notasspectatorsbut participants
Theanniversaryprogrammeextends wellbeyondMay
On 6June theArtscape Career Expo offers youngpeoplea behind-the-scenes look at the fullrange of professions that make theatrepossible,fromlighting and sounddesigntocostume,technical operationsand buildingmanagement
Aseries of Saturdaymasterclasses will run from MaytoNovember
Thefirst,FastTrack to Opening Night,
takesplace on 23 MaywithKMH Architects, covering thedesign, construction and accessibilityofthe Artscape building.A follow-up masterclass, facilitatedbyAfrica Melane, willfocus on funding thearts.
On 8November,ananniversarygala concert, produced and directed by Basil Appollis, featured in thetheatre's50th-anniversarycelebration, promisestobea glamorous evening to remember
As part of theanniversarycelebrations, alimited number of R55early-bird tickets willbemadeavailablefor select performances in theOperaHouse andTheatre. Limited to twoper person, tickets areavailablethrough Dial-A-Seatonafirst-come, first-servedbasis
ZakGordon, chairmanofthe Artscape board, echoed thesentiment: "Aswemark 55 years, our focusremains on ensuring Artscape continues to serveasaninclusive platform forexpression, access andopportunityfor all."
DesireGardner en Hannes vanWyk is te sien in MagdaenhaarErhard, how Louw canyou go by Die Boer-teaterrestaurant vanDinsdag10tot Vrydag 12 Junie, vanDinsdag16tot Donderdag 18 Junie om 20:30,asook op Saterdag 25 Julie
Die produksiehet uitverkoop by die Aardklop-kunstefees en die KKNK. MagdaenErhardLouw besluit om diepad te vatendie verhoog te betree —sonaelkouend en mompelend soos net hulle kan.
Die tema vanhul teaterdebuut is dieliefde, maar die liefde uit Magdaen Erhardseperspektief is effens anders as dieliefdewaarvan ons in boekelees of in films sien.Indie teaterproduksie (ofkonsert soos Erharddit noem) sien ons hoe MagdaenErhardhul bes probeer,maardit sukkel. Is hulle reg
om op die feesteseverhoë te klim? In 'n tipe "NoisesOff!"-formaat neem ErhardenMagda ons deur die prosestotdat hulle uiteindelik ook saam met die gehoor die waansinnigheid vandie liefde en die lewe aanspreek. Hulle gesels oor vergifnis, hoe om in die eg verbindtebly sonder om gearresteer te word of daardie einste eg te verbreek. Hulle gesels oor leënessindroom, volpens-sindroom en al die andersindrome watmens moet aanvaarsoosdie middeljare jou tref Dis 'n komiesestuk, maar met 'n dieper boodskap: dat ons uiteindelik maar die padmet iemandwil stap,al irriteer hulle ons of dryf hulle ons na drank. Daar salook interaksiemet die gehoor wees.
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Ayoung and talented South African waveski athlete is preparing to set off to Peru in South America in October where she willbe representing South Africaat the World Waveski Championships.
Cape Town resident Porcha Schelhase, mother of athlete Courtney Schelhase (20), a Stellenbosch Universitydrama student, saysthe family is currently busy fundraising to
make this opportunity possible.
Courtney recently won the Open Women’s Division at the EP WaveskiOpen 2026 competition whichwas held in Jeffreys Bay in the Eastern Cape.
The event took place from 25 April to 26 April.
What makesthis achievement particularly special, her mothersays, is thatCourtney is currently ranked theNo. 1
waveski surferinthe world for Junior Women.
OCEANVSFAMILY
Courtney, an Edgemead local, balancesher university studies with ademandingtraining schedule, often putting in long hoursinthe ocean while also workingpart-time as awine tasteratanearby winefarm to helpfund hercompetitive journey,Porcha explains.
"Beyond hersport, she is also passionateabouthorses and servesonthe technical teamat
Edge Church."
To help her reach Peru later this year, the family has started with fundraising initiatives.
"We are running araffle with waveski prizes at the moment.
We are also planning aquiz night for the lastSaturday in June wherewewill also launch our next raffle, and actively tryto obtain sponsorship from bigger companies,"Porcha says.
CourtneySchelhase(20) from Edgemead in Cape Town.
