Over 1200 performers transformed thestreets of Cape Town during the 16th Cape Town Carnival,turning the Green Point FanWalk intoaspectacular celebrationof music,dance,art and unity.Human Rights Daybecame avibrantshowcaseoflocal talent,creativity,and the city’srichcultural heritage.
Rabbits are alifelongcommitment,not aseasonal gift —don’t buy your child abunny for Easter, warns a local bunnylover and bunny foster carerfrom Durbanville aftermultiple rabbitswere
deliberately shotwithapellet gun in the Durbanville cemeteryinthe past two weeks.
The problem of domestic rabbits beingabandoned in parksin Durbanville and the Durbanville cemeteryhas escalatedfar
beyondneglect into intentional cruelty with the rabbitssuffering horrific injuries to theirlegs, stomachs and hindquarters, says 25-year-old Kaylin-Lee Eveleigh.
“This is not aquick or humane death,” says Eveleigh
“These animals endure immense pain, often for hours or days, before they are found. In several cases, the injuries have been so severe that the only humane option has been euthanasia.” TOPAGE3
THURSDAY26MARCH
. Badisa is presenting itsannual fundraising golf day at Durbanville Golf Club.The golf tournament daywill featurea four-ballallianceformat withtwo scores counting towardsthe finaltally.Entryfees areR5500 perfour-ballteam. Theevent will include dinner and live entertainment.Contact Willow Williams on 021 9577130orvia email to info@badisa.org.zatobook. Visit www.badisa.org.zafor more information.
. TheR5book sale at the Durbanville Children’s Home willtakeplace on Thursday26March and Friday27March from 09:00 to 15:00,and on Saturday 28 March from 09:00 to 13:00 at the receptionarea. Therewillbea largeselection of fiction, non-fiction, coffee-tableand children’sbooks, as well as CDsand DVDs. Bring your ownbagsorboxes. Card facilities will be available.
. Getyour running shoes on forthe monthlyJARRYDS Kudostothe Causesocial run/walk in support of TEARSAnimal Rescue in SeaPoint.R50 of each entry is donated to TEARSAnimal Rescue.Participants also geta free coffee and achancetocuddle some furrycuties afterthe run. Arriveat06:00, run/ walk starts at 06:30.Register at www.nonamehg com/event-details/kudos-to-the-cause-5km-runtears-3-0
. TheThrift forGood Marketreturns to Blue Route MallinTokai from 27–29March. Thethree-daymarket will featurea curated selection of pre-lovedclothing footwear and accessories, giving shoppers the chance to discoverunique fashion findswhile supporting three localcharities: TheSalvationArmy, U-Turn Charity Shopand Help the RuralChild. Themarket will take placeonthe Ground FloorofBlueRouteMall, with free entry and trading hours from 09:00 to 17:00 daily.
. ThePop-up Thrift sale at NHKTygerberg,ME Rothmanstreet,Parow North, is back by popular demand. Browse aselection of thriftitems –clothing, household goods, and hidden gems at bargainprices on Friday 27 March from 11:00 and Saturday 28 March from 09:00.Fresh jaffles and drinkswillalsobesold. . TheFriendsofDurbanville Library will present their month-end book sale in the libraryhallonFriday 27 March from 09:00 to 16:00 and on Saturday28 March from 09:00 to 12:00. Everymonth there is a wonderful selection of fictionand non-fiction availableatbargain prices. Donations of booksare always welcome. Phone 083306 0594 forenquiries.
SATURDAY28MARCH
.TheFriendsofEdgemead Library arehosting a secondhand book sale on Saturday28March from 09:00 to 12:00atthe Edgemead Library.A large selection of donated adultand children’sfiction and non-fiction books, as well as puzzles, CDs, DVDs and magazines willbeavailable forsale. Prices rangefrom R5 upwardsper item. Card paymentsare accepted for purchases of R50and over.Welookforward to seeing youthere
.Kraaifontein Fashion and LifestyleMarketDay takesplace from 11:00 to 16:00 at the Kraaifontein Civic Centre.Enjoyfashion, accessories, beauty, gifts, delicious food trucks, sweet treats, kids’ jumping castles and plentytoexplore in afun, family-friendly atmosphere.Discoverand supportlocal small businesses. Free entry.Enquiries: Garth078 6381540 . Komsnuffel vir diewinskopie vandie jaar by Huis De Kuilen se verkoping op Donderdag26Maart van 10:30 tot15:00 en Vrydag 27 Maart van10:30 tot 13:00 by dietehuisinSkoolstraat, Kuilsrivier Iemand anders se wit olifant is dalk net waarna jy op soek is. Daar salook kleretekies en te keur wees. Bring jouinkopiesakkeenondersteun dietehuis. Kaartgeriewe is beskikbaar. Skakel 021903 7055 vir meer inligting.
WOENSDAG8APRIL
.Jaco Barnard-Naudésedebuutbundel om my kastele in Spanjetesloop word bespreek by diebyeenkoms vandie Durbanville-poësiekring deur CoenraadWalters. Diebyeenkomsbegin om 10:00 in dieDurbanville-biblioteeksaal.Besoekers is welkom teen R50 perpersoon.Ligte verversingssal genietword. Kontak Lesley vander Vyverby083 460 4571 of teachervdv@ gmail.commet navreofverskonings.
SATURDAY11APRIL
.GracePresbyterianChurch willbehosting aCommunity Marketfrom08:30 to 14:00 at the church on the corner of Camoens and Burrow Street,Monte Vista. Bring your family and friends forawonderful morning out and enjoyoutsidevendors, plentyoffood and drinks, atea garden,a lunch braaitobeenjoyed from 12:00to14:00.For more informationcontact Jeannieon083 305 0424 .TheLoveofChristMarketwilltakeplace from 09:00 to 17:00 at Crossway Church, 51 Goedemoed Road,Goedemoed,Durbanville.The market will have crafts,gifts and refreshments, aprayerroom, support forMES and food hampers to help the needy, also the promotionofKidsKingdom. Card payment only. Contact Roxanne on 060498 6421 formoreinformation.
“Our veterinarians have removed pellets from injured rabbits,confirming the nature of these attacks, and we are currently trying to pursue acriminal case.
“Whatmakes this even more alarmingis that these incidents aretaking place near well-known primary schoolsinthe area, raising serious concerns not only about animal cruelty but also aboutthe safety and behaviourbeing modelled withinthe community,” she says.
“This situation is no longer just about abandoned animals —ithas become adeeply disturbing reflection of both neglect and violence, and it highlights an urgent need foreducation, awareness,and accountability to protect these vulnerable animals from further suffering,” according to Eveleigh.
For severalyears now, Durbanville has been facing agrowing and heartbreaking issue with domestic rabbits being abandoned in openfields anddesignated areas. “This is largely driven by impulse purchases especially around Easter whererabbits are bought asgifts, often forchildren. Unfortunately,once the novelty wears off, animal rescues across South Africa often see an increase in surrendered rabbits because families were unaware of the level of care theseanimals require,” she warns.
“The Easter Bunny tradition dates back many years as asymbol of spring and new life. However, the trend of giving real rabbitsasEastergiftshas grownmore recently, often influenced by commercialisation and socialmedia
“As part of asmall group ofwomen,I have been actively involved in trying to manage this crisis. We feed the rabbits daily, trap them for sterilisation to prevent further breeding, rescue the sick and injured, and do everything we canto find them safeand loving homes.
“Itisalreadyincredibly challenging and emotionally taxingwork, especially
need dedicated care. If this book helps even onefamily understand what caring for abunny really means, then it’s worth it.”
Thebook is available as an affordable downloadable activity pack for families to print at home, making it an accessible Easteractivity while alsosharing an important educational message.
Kaylin hopesthe project will encourage parentstothink carefully before giving live animals as holiday gifts and instead focusonteaching children compassion and responsible pet ownership.
The Bunny Care &Kindness Book is available at https://paystack.shop/foxand-friends-colour-co?product=fox--friendseaster-bunny-care-kindness-colouring-boprnoir.
LOVEFORRABBITS
“Mylove for rabbitsstarted when Iwas 10 andhad my firstexperience on how intelligent, affectionateand emotionally sensitive they are.They areoften misunderstood as ‘low-maintenance’ pets, when in realitythey require just as much care and attentionasdogs or cats.”
Shestill has rabbitsofher own, two Netherlanddwarf bunnies —“they are a huge part of my life andthe inspiration behind everythingIamcreating”, she says.
“Fosteringinvolves temporarily caring for rabbits thathave been abandoned, surrendered or rescued untilthey can be placed in permanent, loving homes. This includes providingproper diet, safe housing, socialisation andoften helping them to recoverfrom neglect. It can be incredibly rewarding, but also emotionally challenging,” she says.
. ContactKaylinat072 5542325 with enquiries.
canliveupto12years.
Aspecial Easter market is being presented by the Andries Olivier Durbanville Quadriplegic Centre on Saturday 11 April from 09:00 to 14:00.
Come support your favourite local vendors and discover treasures like books, arts and crafts, plants, home-baked
goodies and much more.Bring yourfamily andfriends for ajoyfulday of browsing, shopping andcelebrating the season.
The marketisheld at the centre at 18 Hafele Street,Durbanville.
. Stalls at onlyR200eachcan be bookedwith Jeanon083 3560001 or Allenon078 3935924.
Tgirl lea of Fisantekraal LOCALCHESS CHAMPS
After years of determination, grit and effortby the wheelchair-boundedresidents themselves, the Andries Olivier Durbanville Quadriplegic Centre (HAO) has secured its first title sponsor ever for its popularHAO Golf Classic. The centre is proud to announce that Approach Profit Managers, aDurbanville-based financial servicesfirm with strong ties to the local business community, has come on board as the title sponsor of the 2026 HAO Golf Classic scheduled to take place on Thursday 22 October
“Thisexciting partnership marks an important milestone for the centre. The sponsorship, which includes green fees, levies, catering and branded gear, shows Approach Profit Managers’ commitment to supporting community initiatives plan, event. Fromsecuring players and prizes to managinglogistics andsponsorship requests, the preparationhas always required determination, creativity and manyhours of effort,”she says.
“Securing atitlesponsor for the firsttimeis therefore notonly a practical boostfor theevent, but also apowerfulacknowledgement of theperseverance and commitment shown by the residents over many years. The partnership withApproachProfit Managers will enable thecentre to strengthen the eventand expand its impact in support of residents and the centre'slongterm sustainability,” Riese says.
Huis AndriesOlivier expressed heartfelt appreciation for the partnership.
“We aredeeply grateful to theteam at ApproachProfit Managers for their confidence in HAO. This sponsorship represents far more than support for asingle event. It is an investment in independence, community and thefuture sustainabilityofour centre,”she concludes.
Huis AndriesOlivier, situated in Durbanville,isa unique
self-managed residential centre for quadriplegic and paraplegic residents.The residents themselves take responsibility for the day-to-day management and operation of the centre, demonstrating that disability need not limit leadership, independence or community contribution.
The HAO Golf Classic has become one of the centre’smost important fundraising initiatives and continues to attract strong
participation from businesses and supporters across the Western Cape.
Preparations for the golf day event thisyear are already underway and organisers look forward to welcoming golfers and supporters to what promises to be another memorable day where sport and community spirit come together
. Contact RosabelleRieseon081 497 4044orriese2608@gmail.com or TerenceMooreon082 2245454or terencem0073@gmail.comtoreceive theHAO Golf Classic Package.
Dwitisomsoveelondersteuningmoontlik vanonsgemeenskapteverkry...
an Vuuren
nsvlyt) vir nsliefhebber, pvir mense bedrywe, gefokus op leerwerk, meer ars word ook
TRETSKILDER eidswerkjaar
begin met ssie onder Jager FCD Skills aanvullend Profit"-kursus. ssies in ook skone vandeesmaand olieverfen ook tskilder kunsgalery se ingesluit.
steeds op 17:00deur kende met die keur gvan die Portret Award Top-100 en Top-40, in verskillende modulesaangebied om van beginners totgevorderde
kunstenaarsvoor te berei op die Portrait Award 2027-kompetisie. Bespreek by revalle@artoflife. co.za.
BAIEOMNAUITTESIEN
"Daar is baie om na uit te sien die resvan die jaar —onder meer 'n besigheidswerksessie gemik op die kreatiewe entrepreneur, 'n werksessie waarin jy jou eie leerrugsak kan maak, en, vanweë groot aanvraag, 'n herhaling van Alex Emsley se olieverfmeesterklas.
"Die akademie se grootste doelwit is om soveel ondersteuning moontlik en betrokkenheid van ons gemeenskap te verkry. Mense kandeel van ons sirkel raak deur vrywillige mentorskap. Kom bied 'n werksessie aan of ondersteun ons finansieel om ons in staat te stel om meer vaardigheidsontwikkelingsklasse aan te bied, om fasiliteerders te vergoedvir hul tyd en kennis, om kunsvoorraad aan te koop en selfs 'n breër gemeenskap te bereik,"sêJansen van Vuuren. "Ons gehoor is almal in ons gemeenskap —van voorheen benadeelde mense, mammas wat iets kreatiefs wil doen terwyl die kinders by die skool is —geen ervaringnodig nie, voltydse kunstenaarseneksklusiewe klasse wat 'n ervaring bied vir
die wat ietsuniek soek.
“Ons bied weeklikse klasse aan en werksessies word gewoonlik op Donderdae en Saterdae aangebied. Hou ons Instagramblad dop vir inligting oor werksessies.”
KLEIMUSEUMVIER40JAAR
Volgens Jansen van Vuuren het sy onlangs die leisels van die Rust-en-Vrede-kunsgalery en -kleimuseum aan Donavan Mynhardt oorgegee. "Onskleimuseum vier vanjaar sy 40ste herdenking, wat 'n baie spesiale mylpaal is —ook omdat die kleimuseum enig in sy soort in Suid-Afrika is. Die viering hiervan het ons laat besef dat ons verantwoordelikheid aan ons gemeenskap veel verder as hierdie pragtige, historiese gebou strek," sê sy. Dit word deurlopend met verskeie uitstallings deur die loop van die jaar gevier.
"Onsfokus nie net op die vorige 40 jaar nie, maar vier ook waar ons vandag staan en kyk na die toekoms —veral met betrekking tot diejeug wat die kunstenaars van die volgende 40 jaar sal wees," sê sy.
Tans is daar 'n keramiekuitstalling in die kleimuseum se "Cube" met die titel 90 ShadesofRuby . Besoek Creativeroundaaop Instagramofhttps://rust-en-vrede com/creative-round/vir meer inligting oorwerksessiesdeurThe Creative RoundArt Academy. Stuur e-pos na hamlin@rust-en-vrede.com metnavrae.
Swimmers of Barracuda Aquarama Swimming Clubdelivered an outstanding performance at the SSA Level 1Age Group Championships, hosted by Cape TownAquatics on 28 February.
Ateam of 21 swimmers represented theclubwith pride,determination and exceptionalsportsmanship.
Theyoung athletes produced impressive results in the pool, collecting atotal of 39 medals acrossthe competition. The medal tally included six gold medals, 12 silver medals and21bronze medals, highlighting thestrengthand depth of the team across multiple events, said Coenie van Graan, head coach
“Beyond the podium finishes, the swimmers alsoshowed significant personal improvement,” he said. “The team achievedanincredible 86 personal best times, demonstrating the dedication of theathletes and the effectivenessof theirtrainingprogramme.”
Van Graan praised the swimmers for theircommitment andeffort throughout thecompetition.
“Thiswas afantastic achievement for our swimmers. Theresultsreflect the hard work theyput in at training and their determinationtoimprove every time they race. Achieving 86 personal best times is somethingthe entire teamcan be very proudof,” he said.
The championship provided valuable racing experience for the developing swimmers and showcased thegrowing strengthofthe Barracuda Aquarama programme.With suchstrong
performances early in the season, the future looks bright for the club’syoung athletes, he said.
"Barracuda Aquarama continues to build acompetitive swimming environment focused on technical excellence, highperformance training, and athlete development, and the resultsfrom the Level 1Championships are clear evidence that the club is moving in the right direction," according to Van Graan.
. Ouma en die ou koeie met Margit Meyer-Rödenbeck en Coenraad Rall is op Woensdag25enDonderdag 26 Maartom20:30 by Die Boer op die planke. Geen kinders o.13.Bespreek by www.dieboer.com.
. JonathanRoxmouth's Keychange runs at Theatre on theBay nowuntil 28 March. Eveningsat20:00 and Saturdays also at 15:00.Tickets at Webtickets. . Cape Town CityBalletpresents Dracula atArtscape this week until Sunday29March. Ticketsare available at Webtickets or the Artscape BoxOffice on 021421 7695.
. PeoplePower: Zolani Mahola featuring TheFeminine Force is at TheHomecoming CentreonThursday 26 March at 19:00.Tickets from R300 at Quicket. . RichardPryor's Blues Reunion with Boulevard Blues and Friends takesplace on Saturday 28 March
from 19:00 at HillcrestRestaurant,Durbanville in the coveredbeer garden. Tickets(R180) and more informationonQuicket
. Lize Beekman bring haar vertoning In antwoord op Saterdag 28 Maart om 20:30enSondag 29 Maart om 14:00 na Die Boer-teaterrestaurant.Kaartjies kos R250.Bespreek by www.dieboer.com of by 021979
1911
. Die 30ste KKNK vind van28Maarttot 4April in Oudtshoorn plaas. Besoekkknk.co.zavir die volledigeprogram. Krykaartjies by Webtickets of die KKNK-kantoor
. Cape Town PhilharmonicOrchestra and Robvan Vuuren: Peterand the Wolf is at the Kirstenbosch Summer ConcertonSunday29March at 17:30. Tickets areR360orR255 (age 6-21). BookatWebtickets.
Two guitarist/singer/songwriters with very different styles arecoming together fora once-off collaboration at Die Boer in DurbanvilleonThursday9April at 20:30. AlbertFrost andGeraldClark bothstarted out in theblues.Althoughstaying true to their roots, they have movedbeyond and developed their ownstyles across awiderange of genres Frostisa Sama award-winning blues androck guitarist andhas captured audiencesworldwide.From
Have you been kind today?
It’s asimple question, but one that carries weight.
In aworld that moves fast and demands more from us eachday, kindness often becomes an afterthought, something we assume we’ll get to when life feelsa little lessoverwhelming
But the truth is, kindness doesn’t require time, money, or perfect circumstances.It asks only for intention.
One only needs to scroll social media, listen to the radio or switch on the television to see how unkind we human beingshave become toward one another.
Murders, rape, gender-based violence, bullying. The list is endless.
IamaChristian and the Bible teaches us that we need to love our neighbour as we love ourselves. But sadly, we have somehow lost sight of this calling, allowing hatred,anger,and indifference to take over.
Somewhere along the way,many of us have become so consumed by our own struggles, deadlines, finances,stress,and uncertainty that we forget the quiet power of how we treat others.
We rush past people, avoid eye contact, and sometimes respond with frustration instead of patience.
Yet the smallest gestures can leave the deepest marks.
It costs nothing to offer asmile to someoneata traffic lightinsteadof turning away.
It takes littleeffort to speak gently,to listen fully, or to choose understanding over judgment.
These moments may feel insignificant, but to someone else, they canmean everything.
Imagine how different ourcommunities would feel if kindness becameadaily habitrather than an occasionalact. Kindnessbuilds connection. It softens difficult days. It reminds people thatthey areseen, valued, and not alone.
And sometimes, it can evensave a life.The heartbreaking story of an eightyear-old girl from the Eastern Cape, who reportedly felt that escapingbullying was only possible through ending her life,isa devastating reminder of what happens in the absence of kindness.
No child should ever feel so alone, so unheard, or so hurt that they see no way out. Her storyforces us to confront an uncomfortable truth: ourwords and actionsmatter morethan we realise Whatwesay,what we ignore, and how we treat others can shape their sense of worth.
Kindness is not weakness. It is not something reserved for when it’s convenient. It is adeliberate choice that requires empathy, awareness, andeven restraint.
So, at the end of each day, perhaps we should all pause andask ourselves: Have Ibeen kind? Not just to those Iknow, but to strangers,tocolleagues, to the people whose lives briefly intersect with mine. Because in aworld where so many are silently struggling, kindness is not justa virtue. It is aresponsibility.
KAYLYNNE BANTOM
CITYEYESTOURISMBOOSTTOGROWJOBS: James Vosispictured with the ILoveCape Town mascotasthe metropreparestointroduce anew tourism framework aimed at boosting visitor spending,increasingarrivalsand supportingmorethan100 000 jobslinked to the visitor economy.
Ihavegrowing fear andfrustration about what should be asimple task —collecting familyand friends from Cape Town International Airport
Therecentspate of attacks, hijackings, androbberieson the N2 and R300 hastransformed this routine journeyintoa nerve-wracking ordeal.Every time someone asks me to fetchthemfromthe airport,my heart sinks.What wasonceastraightforward drivehas become acalculatedrisk. This shouldn’tbethe reality in ademocratic South Africa. Theeconomic impact extends beyond personal inconvenience.Tourism sufferswhen visitors’firstexperienceinvolvestraveling dangerous routes.Local businesses that depend on airport accessibilityare affected too. We urgentlyneed morepolicepatrolsonthese critical routes
Whileauthorities have announcedplans to con-
Inwoners is moeg vir die oorverdowende geraas van motorfietsewat laatnag deurons woonbuurtejaag. Elkeaand word onsrus versteur deur roekelose motorfietsryers watmet hulraserigeuitlaatstelsels ronddraaiasofdie hele wêreld aan hullebehoort
Hierdie gedrag toon geen respek vir werkende mense, bejaardes,ofgesinne met klein kinders nie
Dieprobleem word vererger deurryers watopsetlik hulmotors laat "pop" en geraas maak, veralin woongebiede waar mense probeer slaap.Party van onsmoet vroeg opstaan vir werk, terwyl ander siek familielede hetwat rus nodighet
Ons versoekdringend datdie Stad Kaapstad en verkeersdepartementstrengerteen hierdie gedrag optree.Motorfietsewat nieaan wettigegeraasregulasies voldoen nie,moet vandie padverwyderword. Verder moetdaar meer patrollies wees gedurende piekversteuringstye,veral ná 22:00.Boetes moet swaar wees.
MARTIN VANWYK, Brackenfell
struct awallalong sections of the routetoprevent stone-throwing attacks, this reactivemeasurefeels inadequategiven thescale of the crisis. Awallisa band-aid solution to aproblem requiring surgical precision.Weneed proactivelaw enforcement,not defensive architecturethatacknowledges ourfailure to maintain basic road safety
Moreover, wallscreateanunwelcoming fortress-like atmospherefor international visitors,hardlythe image we want to project as atourist destination.
Rather than building barriers that separate communities further,weneed comprehensivesecuritysolutions includingincreasedpolicevisibility, community policing initiatives, andaddressing the root causes of crime in surrounding areas.
FEARFUL, E-mail
Whilemuchattention hasbeen given to howthe City of Cape Town'snew fixed tariffsaffect pensioners, we must notoverlook another vulnerablegroup bearing this financial burden:singlemothers. Did the Cityeven considerthem?
Thesewomen,often juggling multipleresponsibilities whilesupporting their families on limitedincomes, nowfacethe additional strain of fixed municipal chargesregardless of their actual consumption.
Forasinglemother,every rand counts. Unlike dual-income households that canabsorb increased costs moreeasily, single mothers have no financial buffer.Manyhavealready reducedtheir electricityand waterusage to bare minimums, yetstillfacethe same fixed chargesashouseholds with significantlyhigher consumption.
Single mothers deserve betterthana one-sizefits-allapproach that ignores their unique financial challenges.
MAUREEN SUMMERS, Brackenfell
Threemonths ago, Mr GAlbertus took the helm as our newprincipal.Inthis short timeframe,his leadership hassparked atransformativewave. His approach hasbeen characterised by visible leadership; acultureofexcellence; andsupport for educators
He hasbeen a“breath of fresh air”, establishing apresencethatisboth professionaland deeply approachablefor students andstaff alike. He hasfosteredasenseofaccountabilitywhile simultaneouslyboosting morale, creating an environment wherestudents feel valued andrespected. Beyond his impact on the learners, he hasshown incrediblesupport forour teachers. By providing clear guidanceand maintaining open communication,he hasempoweredour staff to focus on what theydo best: making adifferenceinour children’slives. As aparent,I am profoundlythankful.
NADIA GALLANT,Parentand former SGBmember
Genoeg is genoeg. Kinders knak–stil-stil, agterglimlagtewat vir die wêreld bedoel is. Onder die druk vanskool,sport en sosiale media verloor hulle hulself.Ekis’nmamma vandrie–twee hoërskoolkinderseneen laerskoolkind –eneksien dit daagliks. Skolespog op InstagramenFacebook.Alles word ’n kompetisie: A-spanne,erekleure, akademiesetoppresteerders. Kinders werk harder,oefen langer,leer later–alles om by te bly. Maar teen watter prys? Naweke is nie meer rusnie.Dit is toernooie,vroeë oggende,laat oefeningeenhuiswerk watindie nag ingedruk word.Daar is geen asemruimte nie.Geen tyd vir lag, vir speletjies, vir die eenvoudigevreugde van net kind wees nie En dit wys. Agterdie prestasies is daar moegheid, angs en kinderswat voel hulle is nooit goed genoeg nie.Ouersprobeer byhou, maar is self uitgeput Gesinne leef onder konstante spanning. Intussen styg depressie en selfdoodsyfersonder tieners JEAN-MARI VANVUUREN, Durbanville
The Voice of Hope art exhibition with musicwillbepresented from Saturday 11 April to Friday 17 April at the Ark Venueon Anna BeulahFarm outside Durbanville out of ayearningfor something realand authentic.
This art exhibition is beingpresented by Christell van der Merwe, alocal musician andcreative with apassion for the role that arts and music play in everydaylife “Inthis age of Artificial Intelligence (AI), it is rare to find something completely human-made. It is becoming increasingly difficult to discern between what is authentic and what is mixed with an AI
thatinaneffective way,” she explains.
Visitors to theexhibition will enterinto a“garden of hope” as they walk through thedisplayed art. Heartfelt music will accompany you on this journey, with live musicfrom various local musicians during the exhibition. Entrance is free.
Artworkwill be for sale.
During the week, various artists will host workshops.
“Partofour heart is to include and empowerthe younger generationwith artistictalentand to connectthem
Blood stocksinthe WesternCape are running dangerously low ahead of the Easterweekend, atraditionally critical period markedbyincreased emergencies, prompting an urgent callfor donors to stepforward.
The Western Cape Blood Service (WCBS) is appealingtoall eligible donors to donate blood.
Theservicecurrently has only atwo-day supply of O-negative blood,far below the minimum five days needed to maintain astable andsustainable supply for
communities across the province. For thepast two weeks,O-negative stock has been under severe pressure, with worrying drops now seen in other blood groups as well.
“O-negative blood is often used in lifethreatening emergencies when thereis no time to determine apatient's blood type,” says MarikeCarli, PublicRelations Manager at WCBS.
. To findyourclosest blooddonation clinic, visit www.wcbs.org.zaorWhatsApp 060549 7244.
ESME.ERASMUS@NOVUSMEDIA.CO.ZA
What makes one going down the feared steep descent of the Fish River Canyon hiking trailin the vast chasmNamibiafor 31 times?
For 62-year-oldEricMcLaren of Somerset West, acertified adventure guidespecialising in the Fish River Canyon, itall started 12 yearsago in 2014 when he was invited along by his late friendColin to join their group.
CANYONDRAWSYOUBACK
“The Fish River is widely regarded as one of the continent’s premier hiking challenges. Spanning approximately 72km over fivedays,itdemands physical preparation, logistical planning and careful risk management,” he says.
”It was my first multi-day hike, and it just happened to be the Fish River Canyon.
“I knew from the outset that it would be aserious undertaking, but also an adventure too significant to turn down,” he says.
“Onehike led to another,then another, and before Irealised it, Ihad completed it 31 times mostofitasa guide takingdown groups
“It’sdifficult to put into words. The canyon has away of drawing you back —each descent feels familiar, yet never the same. I suppose once it gets under your
skin, that’s it. Youdon’treally decide to goback, you simply find yourself returning,” he says.
“Since being achild, growing up near Devil’sPeak in Cape Town, we often venturedinto the mountains andplayed around the Devil’s Peakquarry. Ever since then I’ve been an outdoor person,” he says
When McLaren, alegend in FishRiver Canyon circles, starts totalkabout the experienceof hiking the FishRiver Canyon, onefeels the urge to put on your hiking boots and join in on the adventure.
Asked abouthighlights overthe past12years, McLaren says it wasnever just one moment.
“The whole adventure is the highlight. It is the combination ofpeople and place. Thegroups Iguide are always special,but so arethe hikers youmeet along theway.There’s something about thecanyonthatstrips things back, everyone is there for the same reason: towalk, to test themselves,and to experience something real.
“There’s somethingaboutfive days in acanyonthat strips life back to the essentials,” McLaren notes.
“You become very aware of what youtruly need, physically andmentally. That awareness stayswithyou longafter you climbout,”hesays
HARDESTPART
What is the hardestpart?
“There’ssomething aboutthecanyonthat stripsthingsback”
—EricMcLaren
For mosthikers, it’s the initial descent and the first day and a halfinthe canyon,hesays
“That sectionincludes the narrow stretchknown as the BoulderField in theFish River Canyon.Here, progress is slow and deliberate. You’re constantly climbing over, around and between large boulders, which demands balance,focusand steady foot placement, especially with afull pack.
“Theheat adds another layer of difficulty. Manyofthe boulders are dark in colourand on hot, sunny days they absorb and radiate heat —significantly increasing the temperature at ground level. Combined with thephysical effort of the terrain, this can makethe first stretch particularly demanding.
“Once hikers move beyond this section,the canyon begins to open up, the walking becomes more rhythmic and most people findthey settle intotheir stride …,”hesays.
“Overthe years, I’ve learnt that preparation makes or breaks this hike.Early on, Ididn’temphasise fitnessand pack weight strongly enough. Afew hikers underestimated what the canyon demands, which made it tough for them, and understandably frustrating for thosewho had prepared properly.
“That experience sharpened my approach. Today, I’m very clear about required fitness levels and realistic pack weights before anyonecommits. Fortunately, I’venever had amajor incident,” he says.
One situation that does stand out happened in 2023. Twosisters struggled on the descent and began showing signs of nausea.
“We still had several kilometres to cover that day, and it was clear pushing on would not be wise.Imade the decision to call theranger via satellitephone and arrange an extraction. It’s never adecision Itake lightly. Butleadership in the canyon is about judgement, not pride. Thepriorityisalways the safety and long-term wellbeing of the hikers,”heexplains.
“Over time, I’ve met so many people with endless questions
about the booking process, what to pack, where to camp and what to expect. Yet there’snosingle guide that really answers all of thosequestions in one place,” he says. This made him decide to writethe guide book Thirty Times Down: AHiker’sGuide to the Fish River Canyon Trail, which was recently released. The 128-page practical and narrative book is acompanion to one of Africa’s most demanding multiday hikes.
“My hope is that thisbook will do exactly that. Iknow that one day, I’ll have to hang up my boots and stop guiding groups, and that’s really what inspired me to writethis book. This is my way of giving something back to everyone who will still hikeitin the yearstocome,” he says.
DISTANCEMATRICCHART
“I’ve put together adistance matrix chart for the trail that I have found incredibly useful out on the trail,” he says.
McLaren’sbook focuses on what hikers need to know before stepping onto the canyon floor —from pack weight and pacing to food strategy, terrain realities and day-by-day planning. Thebook can be ordered from McLaren directly or is available at CityRock in Cape Town, Johannesburg and Pretoria, and online at www.argaiters.co.za or www.sat4rent.co.za.
. Contact Eric McLaren on info@ capetownhikes.co.za or 083627 1563
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IN THE HIGH COURTOFSOUTH AFRICA, WESTERN CAPE LOCAL DIVISION, CAPETOWN Before theHonourable Mr JusticeWillie, Cape Townon the20thofFebruary 2026. Case No: 2026-018464.
In thematter between: NTUMISENG MANATHA MPITSA, APPLICANTand MAPULENGCHALI, FIRST RESPONDENT,ISHMAIL STAMPA, SECOND RESPONDENT,MA-AMOS STAMPA, THIRD RESPONDENT,MASTER OF THE HIGH COURT, CAPE TOWN, FOURTH RESPONDENT,DEEDSREGISTRAR, CAPE TOWN, FIFTHRESPONDENT,KUILS RIVERSHERIFF,NORTH, SIXTHRESPONDENT
HAVING readthe papers filed on recordherein and having heardthe Applicant's Counsel herein: IT IS HEREBY ORDERED:
1. Order for substituted serviceishereby granted.
2. The Applicant is orderedtoserve this order by wayof an advertisement in theNewspaper of theNorthern Suburbs,Particularly,Kraaifontein, being TygerBurger Newspaper, theAttorney to fileserviceaffidavit before theCourtRoll close.
3. That aRule Nisiishereby issued callinguponthe Respondents to show good cause, if any on the13thday of APRIL2026 at 10:00 or soon thereafter whyafinal order should not be issued that:
3.1. It is herebydeclared that theimmovable property ErfNo:20535 Kraaifontein, in theCity of Cape Town, Division Paarl, province of theWestern Cape is the property of theApplicant.
3.2. The SixthRespondent is herebyorderedtosignall thenecessarydocumentstotransfer theproperty to thename of theApplicant within 5(Five) days of the Order being granted.
3.3. The FifthRespondent is herebyorderedtocancel titledeedno: T19439/2003 in favour of theSecondand ThirdRespondents and register it to thename of the Applicant. 3.4. Cost of suit,ifopposed BY ORDER OF THE COURT, COURT REGISTRAR. Botho Molefe and Associates Incorporated, 53 Voortrekker Road, Kr if tein
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TheBarracuda Aquarama Swimming Club in Durbanvilledelivered an outstanding performance at the SA Level 2Regional Age Group Championships 2026 earlier this month in Oudtshoorn, showcasing both the talent and determination ofits swimmers.
Ateam of 18 swimmers of the club, which trains at Durbanville Preparatory School, represented theclubfrom 6to8 March and achieved remarkable results against strong competition from 42 participatingclubs.
Barracuda Aquarama secured an impressive sixth overall position —a testament to the depth and quality within the squad,says Coenie van Graan, head coach. The swimmers brought homeatotal of
33 medals —consisting of seven gold, 10 silver, and15bronze medals
INCREDIBLE143PERSONALBESTTIMES
"In addition to their podium finishes,the teamdemonstrated exceptionalprogress in the pool,recordinganincredible 143 personal best times overthe courseofthe competition," Van Graan says.
He praised the swimmers for their commitment, discipline andteamspirit "It highlights the significant improvement and consistencyshown throughout the event. This strong showing reinforces Barracuda Aquarama’sgrowing reputationasacompetitive force in regionalswimming, with abrightfuture aheadfor its developing swimmers," he concludes.
