TygerBurger | Kraaifontein | E-edition | 13 May 2026

ToffeemarkscourtroomfirstinSA

KAILINDANIELS

KAILIN.DANIELS@NOVUSMDIA.CO.ZA

Inaquiet courtroom in the Western Cape High Court, history was made not by ajudge or lawyer,but by a gentle golden retriever named Toffee.

As a14-year-old boy prepared to testify against his own father in therape and murder trial of 8-year-oldDaniel Jamneck, the3-year-old therapy dog laycalmly beside him, offering silentreassurance during one of the most traumatic moments of the child’s life.

The April2026 testimonymarked the firsttime atherapy dog hadaccompanied achild witness in aSouth African criminal court, abreakthrough many child-trauma specialistshopecould transformhow vulnerable children experiencethe justice system

For the teenager, who waspresent at thescene of Daniel’s death in Peerless Park North, Kraaifontein, in June 2023, the court appearance was more thanjust giving evidence. It meant revisiting a traumatic night while speaking publicly against his father, who is facing charges of murder,rape and sexual assault. Daniel was found dead in the accused's bed following asleepoverinKraaifontein in Cape Town on 15 June 2023

Toffee doggedlyremained by the teenager's side as this was related to the court.

ACOURTROOMFIRSTBORNFROMYEARSOF ADVOCACY

The idea of therapy dogs supporting child witnesses has long been used in countries such as the UnitedStates,but South Africa had yet to take thatstep For EdithKriel, executivedirector of theJelly Beanz Foundation,it hadbeen adream decades in the making. “I have worked in the child protection sector now for 32 years and across my whole career I’ve to some extent worked withinthe sexual offences courts.”

She said major improvements have been made over the years to make courts less intimidating for children, including childfriendly rooms and intermediaries who help facilitate testimony.

“But the realityisthat if you’re akid and you’ve experienced something really traumatic, when you go back to court in astrange environment… youhave to sit down andthink like avideo inyourhead of that traumatic experience and then put that into words.

“You’re also sometimes asked to defend youranswers or made to feel like you’re nottelling the truth. Kids have areally hard time.”

Kriel believes therapy dogs can bridge that emotional gap.

“The role of atherapy dog during testifying is really to createasenseof safety for the child, asense of ‘I’ve got

TEEN SUPPORTED BY THERAPYDOG,TOFFEE, DURING TRAUMATICTESTIMONYAGAINST HIS FATHER IN WESTERN CAPE HIGHCOURT

somebody on my side’.

“This beautiful animal is here with me. They’re not judging me when Itell the storiesofall theyucky thingsthat happened to me.They just think I’m amazing.”

CALMINGFEARINTHEMIDDLEOFTRAUMA

Traumaexperts say children who testify in court often relive their experiences physically and emotionally. Fear,anxiety andstresscan overwhelm the nervous system,making it difficult for children to think clearly 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 their nervoussystem

“And when yournervous system is calmer, the parts of your brain that do the thinking and come up with the words can work better.”

During the in-camera testimony on 29 April Toffeeremained closetothe teenager throughoutproceedings, helping him find the strength to continue.

Krieldescribed the moment as deeply emotional, sayingthe child visibly relied on thedog’spresenceduring difficultparts of his testimony.

“Tomyknowledge Toffeeisthe firstdog that hassuccessfully gone throughthe processwith achild,” she said.

But she stressed the achievement was nothers alone.

“It’s not just ameprocess. We need prosecutors on board who are willingto take iton, put in applications andstep outside of thenorm. There’sa whole team behind it.”

MORETHANJUSTACOMFORTINGPET

Toffee is not simply afriendly dog wandering through therapy sessions

She is acertified “fur-therapist” at the Jelly BeanzFoundation, aTable Viewbased non-profit organisation dedicated to helping children affectedbytrauma, abuse andneglect.

Founded in 2009, Jelly Beanz provides therapy services,develops trauma resources,trainsprofessionals working withchildrenand advocates for better support systems for vulnerable young people.

The organisation’s work is rooted in a grim national reality.

According to Jelly Beanz oneinthree SouthAfrican children is sexually abused before the age of 18.

"Boysare just as vulnerable to abuse as

Womanarrestedfor gun, ammo

DESIRÉERORKE

DESIREE.RORKE@TYGERBURGER.CO.ZA

A28-year-old woman from Scottsdene has been arrested and charged with possession of an unlicensed weapon andammunition afterthe Kraaifontein crimeprevention unit seized a9mm pistol andmorethan 150 rounds of ammunition from her home. The arrest followed the executionofa search warrant at aresidence in Rigoletto Street, Scottsdene, late on Sunday3 May. Officers arrived at the premises at approximately23:30 and located the suspectonsite before proceeding to search the property.

“The searchyielded a9mm pistol along with 124 rounds of .45 ammunition, 19 rounds of .38 ammunition, and nine rounds of 9mm ammunition. The operation formed part of theunit’s ongoing crime prevention efforts in the area,” says provincial police spokesperson Const Ndakhe Gwala.

She was expected to appearinthe Kuilsriver Magistrates’ Court on Tuesday 5May.

girls.Eighty-two percent of children have been directly exposed to violence in their homesorcommunities."

Against thatbackdrop therapy animals are becoming powerful tools in rebuilding trust andemotional safety.

“Childrenwho haveexperienced trauma often feelashamed, disconnected or different from others,”the organisation pointedout

“Dogs offer unconditional acceptance. No words are necessary.”

Therapists saychildren frequently communicateemotionsindirectly through thedog, sometimes revealing feelings they struggle to express themselves.

Achild may say, “Toffee is feeling sad today,”wheninreality they are describing theirown emotional state.

CARRYINGONAHEALINGLEGACY

Toffeealso carriesthe legacy of another beloved therapydog, Danni,South Africa’s firstNewfoundland fur-therapist, which workedwith traumatised children through Jelly Beanz.While smaller in size Toffee hasquickly become acomforting presence in therapyrooms

“Withher soft coat andcalming presence Toffeeoffers comfort, connection and unconditionalacceptance to children whohave experienced trauma,”the organisation said.

“She is asymbol of healing, hope and trust.”

Krielhoped the court breakthrough will inspire others to build similar programmes rather than relying solely on one dog or one organisation.

“The idea is not that Toffee becomes the next court therapy dog forever,” she said.

“It’sabout opening an opportunity for other people to step up and step in.”

As the Daniel Jamneck trial continues Toffee’s quiet presence has already left alasting mark on SouthAfrica’s justice system.

Workshopstacklewaterwaste

More than 900residents in Kraaifontein and Scottsville havereceived practical training on water conservation andsanitation practices throughaseries of community workshops,asthe Citylooks to grassrootspartnershipsto address the growing pressure on aging sewer infrastructure and adeteriorating Diep River catchment.

The workshopsare being led by Manjiya Economic Development, alocal non-profit and one of 22 community-based groups currently supported through the City’s water and sanitation grant fund, designed to extend the municipality’sreach into communities where thegap between policy and reality is widest.

Across eight sessions held in Kraaifontein and Scottsville in recent months, residents including young adults and learners have been guided through the everyday behaviours that contribute to sewer blockages and overflows, why proper sanitation mattersand how to log aservice request with the City when infrastructure fails.

CAUSEANDEFFECT

The sessions are deliberately

FROMPAGE1

“It was acommunity celebration of overcoming and achieving,” he said, noting that not asingle rand of government funding had been received to sustain the programme.

NON-PROFIT PARTNERS WITH CITYTOTEACH COMMUNITIES THE PROBLEMS CREATED BY IMPROPERDISPOSAL

practical. Each one is designed to connect residents’ own waste disposal habits directly to the consequences they see in their streets, waterways and homes.

“The City cannot tackle the scaleofwaterpollutionand sewer overflows alone,” said Zahid Badroodien, the City’s Mayco member for water and sanitation

“Partnerships likethe onewith ManjiyaEconomicDevelopment allowustoextend ourreach anddiscuss practicalsolutions, taking into account livedreality at acommunity level. It also createsan opportunity to support residents who arepassionate aboutdignified sanitation and promotingwisewater use.”

ForManjiya Economic Development, the granthas unlocked morethan just workshop materials. The organisationhas placed equalemphasis on education, awareness andjob creation, framingsanitation notmerely as

LIVESREWRITTEN

He tells of two young menwho passed through the library’s doorsand went on to become u-19 Western Province rugby players, and aGrade 11 girl who hasbegun to write abook. Over athousand children have passed

an infrastructural issue, but as a communitydevelopment one.

“TheCity’s grant enabled us to deliver impactfulcommunity and school activities, by providing vital resources and support,”said Luntu Manjiya of

through thelibrary’s doors, and current membership stands at eight hundred and fifty.

“Myhighlights were when kids rantomeatthe endofaschool term to showmetheir good reports,” he says, “andtosee thepride in their eyes as they

Manjiya Economic Development.

“Through this, we successfully raised awareness on water conservation and improved sanitation practices across our communities.”

The work forms part of a

improved at school.”

The library’s slogan of “Making meaningful connections towards change” has come to life in the decade of work it represents.

“Throughout the years, our main aim has been to encourage thesechildren to change the waythey think,”Terance said. “Change your mindset in the midstofchaos, and you can remain calm.”

Plans are under way to expand thefacility intoatraining centre for youth job readiness. “We wanttoextend our objectives from literacy to leadership into theworld.”

Terance said: “I have learned in theprocess that you are never tooold to learn.”

He thanked every person who had contributed to the journey

“Thank you for believing in this missionand walking alongside me as we continue to make meaningful connections that bringabout real change. Each act of kindness has helped shape livesand plant seeds of hope in our community.”

broader strategy to protect the Diep River catchment, a waterway under sustained pressure from informal settlements,sewer overflows and illegal dumping in surrounding areas.

Have your sayon digitalIDsystem

TheSouth Africangovernment haspublished draft amended regulations under theIdentification Act, givingthe public achance to comment on aproposed population DigitalIdentitysystem. Theregulations were gazetted on 6 May. Thedeadline forwritten comments is 6June

Thedraft regulations call forthe creation of secureDigitalIdentity credentialsthat wouldexist alongside theDepartment of Home Affairs' current physical-identityproducts. Under theproposedsystemcitizens wouldbeable, securely, to store, access anduse digitalversions of their identity document,birth certificate,marriage certificate andother Home Affairs documents on their smartphones. Importantly,the useofthe DigitalIdentitysystem wouldbevoluntary. Physical products such as SmartIDcards wouldcontinue to be issued.

. Thedraft gazetteisavailable on theDepartment of Home Affairs website: www.dha.gov.za.

GoodHopeFMpresenterdies

RICHARDROBERTS

RICHARD.ROBERTS@NOVUSMEDIA.CO.ZA

Messages of condolences have been streaming in following the passing of a well-known radio sports presenter, Lorenzo Darries.

Darries passed away in hospital on Tuesday morning5 May Darries was afamiliar voice on Cape Town's commercial radio station Good Hope FM who extended their heartfelt condolences to his family,friends, colleagues, andlisteners.

LEGACYWILLLIVEON

"We are deeply saddened by the passing of our colleague and friend, Lorenzo Darries, following acourageous battle with heart disease.

"A beloved voice on Good Hope FM, Lorenzo brought warmth, passion, and authenticity to every moment on air and beyond.His strength, resilience, andspirit touchedeveryone who had the privilege of knowing him.

"His legacy will live on in all of us," thestation said.

Darries shared news on Tuesday 31 March that he is steppingaway from hisrole as presenter.

"Bitter-sweet moment, this will be my final broadcast as sports presenter on the Great Drive Show

SPORTS PRESENTER LORENZODARRIES REMEMBERED FOR WARMTH, PASSIONAND RESILIENCE

“I'll be heading into aproducer role andstill standinwhen needed but will miss the feeling of being on airevery day. My health comes firstand Ineed to be stronger, mentally and physically to do what Ilove

“Cheers for now fam," he wrote on his Facebook page.

TRIBUTE

Darries wasalsoa familiar face onthe Expresso MorningShow on SABC3.

"We will miss hissport updates, his warm 06:00 koesisters which he'd bring for the crew (all out of thekindnessofhis heart), but most of allwewill misshis spirit

“Lorenzo wasa true fighter, and his fight is now over. Our thoughts andprayerstohis family andall who loved him."

Guy McDonald, radio host on Smile FM and friend, alsoshared his thoughts.

"It was aprivilege to know and work with aman so passionate about sport and so desperate to live afulllive. May his memory forever inspire his wife, family and closestfriends."

ALMAMATERPAYSRESPECTS

SibeliusHigh School in Retreat whereheattended school, also sharedtheirsincere condolences to hisfamily and friends.

"Lorenzowas akindhearted individual whose generosity extendedwellbeyond his matriculation

“Hisregular donationsof stationery to our learners reflected hisenduringcommitment to the school

"He will be fondly remembered and deeply missed. Ourthoughts are with hisfamily during this time."

Darriesleaves behind his wife, Kelly Williams

‘Suidooster’ se Dean kry eie ‘Show’kie’

Ditgebeur nie aldag dat jy deel van ’n televisie-gehoor kan wees wanneer ’n splinternuwe vermaakprogram vir kykNET &kie opgeneem word nie. Die immergewilde Dean Smith van Suidooster-faam is die aanbieder van Show’kie, waarvan opnames in Mei begin. Dit gaan by Atlantic Studios, wat onder meer die tuiste van Suidooster, Koortjies, Sê jou sê en Kwêla is, opgeneem word en sal van Julie op kykNET &kie uitgesaai word.

En Dean soek mense om deel van die gehoor te wees. Dit is gratis en al wat jy hoef te doen, is om so gou as moontlik jou plek te bespreek. Sommer vandag nog.

WATOMTEVERWAGVAN

'SHOW’KIE'?

Suidooster-aanhangers kanontspan, want “Wade” gaan nêrens heen nie, maar met Show’kie gaan Dean sy gunsteling-persoonlikhede van uiteenlopende genres voor die kamera laat verskyn.

Dink maar aan mense soos Jawaahier Petersen, Shimmy Isaacs, Dean Balie, Tollie Parton en MienkeEhlers. Daar’smusiekmense, daar’s bly uitdaag, opgewonde maak en jouhorisonne verbreed,” is sy boodskap aan die kykers. Met die energie wat hy in Show’kie inploeg, gaan daar wonderlike vrugte gepluk word —van groot gesprekke tot uitdie-maag-skaterlag. Daar gaan nie ’n saai oomblik wees nie. Gewaarborg.

Dean sê ook hy is opgewonde en voel meer gemotiveerd om steeds ’n beter weergawe van homself te ontwikkel. En Show’kie is een groot tree vorentoe op daardie pad.

IlzeSwartrocksatAndriesOlivier

Atthe heart of the AndriesOlivier DurbanvilleQuadriplegic Centre’s growing fundraising bookshop is aremarkable woman whose passion for books has transformedsmall beginningsinto athriving community project.

Ilze Swart, aretired librarian, and her dedicated team of volunteers haveplaced the simplebook project at the quadriplegic centre on the map.

“With her wealth of experience and deep love for books, she has brought structure, vision and energy to what hasbecome one of our most successful fundraising initiatives,” says Rosabelle Riese, a resident involved in the book project.

“In afour-year journey of growth, structureand communitysupport, the book project evolved from packed crates and boxes to apermanent bookshop,”she says.

SELECTINGBOOKSANDPACKINGCRATES

“Ilze has been instrumental in givingour books aforever home. In theearly days, she assisted with thedemanding taskof selecting and packing crates of books for various markets, from Rust-en-Vrede to the Presbyterian Church and beyond It was alabour-intensive process that required drivers and residents to assist with sales and the setting up oftables, gazebosand displays.

“Drawing on her background in librarianship and her involvement in fundraising initiatives forother organisations,Ilze graduallyintroduced a sense of order andpurpose

“What started as achallenging and timeconsuming operation, has evolved into a well-organised and sustainable fundraising initiative,” Riese says.

TURNINGPOINT

Asignificant turning pointcame in June 2022 with the arrival of thefirstcontainer donatedbyBreadline Africa—complete

with built-in shelvingand awheelchairaccessible ramp built by the QuadPara AssociationWestern Cape.

An additional container arrivedtwo years later —a donation by Vicky Oosthuizen

Renovationswere carried outbyVicky andNick PriceofGAP Aluminium, witha generous donation of shelving by Graham andVerna Moore,installed by Annamarie Mostert

“Theseall createdafunctionaland accessible bookshopspace. With careful planning and coordination, Ilze oversaw thetransition from packedboxestofully shelved and categorised stock,” Riese continues

ACCESSIBLESPACE

Today, the container bookshop, together withthe neatly arrangedR5sectioninside the house, offers an invitingand accessible space forvisitors.

Launched in November2022 with a vibrant R5 sale,the project has continued to grow from strength to strength

Books aremeticulously sorted, priced andshelved, with even the R5 section arranged alphabetically —“asmall detailthat speaks volumes about Ilze’s dedicationand attentiontodetail”,Riese says.

HIDDENGEMS

“Ilze coordinatesevery aspect of the donation process —from sorting and categorising to pricingand shelving. Nothing escapesher careful attention. She also has aremarkable abilitytoidentify hidden gems and valuable collectibles.

One suchtreasure, Die MeelblomToer, wasdiscoveredbyher and latersold at thecentre’s GolfDay auction for an impressive R3 000,” Riese says.

“On book market days, held everysecond Saturday of themonthatHuis Andries Olivier, Ilzeadds her personal touch through thoughtfully curated displays of unique andvaluable finds.

“Theseselections attract keen interest both at thecentre andthroughher connections with Friends of the Library organisationsinBellville andDurbanville

“Throughthese networks, she continues tomatchbooks with the right buyers, further boostingfunds for the centre Having built lastingrelationships over

manyyears, Ilze draws on awide network of book lovers andcollectors. We benefit greatly from these connections, which haveaddedbothvalueand reach to the project.”

DEDICATEDTEAMOFVOLUNTEERS

At thecore of this success is adedicated team of volunteers whose camaraderie and humourbringthe project to life.

As Gillian Watsonjokingly remarked, “I’m aretiredchief executive officer and now I’m cleaning shelves andfloors!”

Alongside Gillian andWillie Watson, Elize de Jagerand Annamarie Mostert continue to playaninvaluable role, supported by others who assist with lifting, sorting, transporting and maintaining thespace.

LABOUROFLOVE

“We aretruly grateful for Ilze’slabour of love —her leadership, dedication and generous spirit.

“Her legacylies notonly in the thousands of booksshe has organised, but in thesystemshe hasbuilt, thepeople she has inspiredand the lasting difference shecontinues to make. ‘Komkyk na ons winskopies,’ she often encourages, and thankstoher, there is always something special waiting to be discovered.

“Rainorshine, Ilze is there. Her commitment is unwavering, her approach consistent.Whenasked about her involvement, she simply says, ‘I enjoy what I’m doing. With abit of order and alove for books, we can turnsomething simple into something meaningful for the centre

“While her contribution is immeasurable, Ilze is alsomindful of thefuture. Shehas begun sharing her knowledge and systemswithDeJager and Mostert, ensuring continuity and sustainabilityfor theproject.

“It’snot just about books. It’sabout people, relationships and creating something worthwhile together.The joy is in seeing it all come together for the benefitofthe centre,”Swart explains het passion.

“We also acknowledge the original book project committee, whose early efforts laid astrong foundation, as well as the many volunteers who have contributed along the way. Over the pastfour years, this initiative has grown through true community involvement. As the saying goes, ‘Rome was not built in aday’, but the collective effort of many has given this project and the centre an immense and lasting boost,” Riese concludes.

DONATIONS

Thecentre welcomes donations of books. Book lovers are invited to visiton Tuesdays and Thursdays between 10:00 and 15:00, or to join the book market held on the second Saturday of 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).

THINKING OUTLOUD

Classrooms arestill filledwithdreamers

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

EDUCATIONWAS NON-NEGOTIABLEIN OURHOME

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

Magmoeders vreugdeervaar

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

CityofCape Town: quo vadis?

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

Stingray birth shows moremust be done

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

Chop upsneed repairs

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

KnittingDucksmark3years

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.

"It is also therapeuticfor our members we share in each other's joy and sorrow, the birth of grandchildren, andwesupport each other through the loss of spouses," Leask says.

BEANIESANDSOFTTOYS

Over the past three years, the Knitting Ducks have produced an impressive 7090 beanies,aswell as more than80soft toys, whichare used for trauma therapy with physically or sexually abused children when theyneed to testifyincourt

"Muchofour work supports Beanies4Babies, anon-profitorganisation that helpsprovidewarmthto vulnerable newborns by supplying beanies andsocks to babies in need," Leask says."One of the main reasonsfor starting thegroup was

DURBANVILLE KNITTING GROUPPRODUCES OVER 7000 BEANIES IN THREE YEARS

toestablishapassionate support groupfor Beanies4Babies in the Western Cape," she says.

TEACHABOUTCOURTOFFICIALS

Touch OurPets(TOP) Therapy Dogs was started by eight dedicated therapy dog handlers, and their pets, in August 2008.

TOP Therapy Dogs help teach the children about court officials in afun andfeel-good way. At thesame time, the dogs help the children to heal, bringlove without judgementorthreat, andshow them the way back to trust.Thedogs aredressed as the magistrate, the state prosecutor, thedefenceand the court orderly. The children hold on to them as theylearn,but in the real court,the dogs can’t be present, accordingtotheir website.

They aimtogive every child acrocheted or knitted pupthatwill accompany them intocourt

"We would like each child to choose which realdog will be ‘theirs’ andgive them theirown cuddlyversionthat will remind them of love andsmilesand courage," according to theirwebsite.

BRINGINGCOMFORTANDCARE

"In this way, the Durbanville Knitting Ducks extend their reach beyond babies, contributingtoprojects that bring comfort and care to others," Walker says.

"Morethan just aknittinggroup, the Durbanville KnittingDuckshave created aspace forconnectionand purpose.

Their weekly gatheringsatthe library havebecome aplacewherefriendships are strengthened andwhere every stitch contributestoabigger cause,"she says.

"Theirthree-year milestone is not only acelebration of commitment and consistency,but alsoofthe difference a dedicatedcommunity group can make.

From helpingkeep babies warm to supporting wider community initiatives, theDurbanville Knitting Ducks continue to show the powerofkindness in action," Walker concludes.

ANNIVERSARY CELEBRATIONSSEES TICKETS DISCOUNTED

Gardner en VanWyk gaan laag

DesireGardner en Hannes vanWyk is te sien in Magdaenhaar Erhard,how Louw canyou go by Die Boer-teaterrestaurantvan Dinsdag 10 totVrydag 12 Junie,van Dinsdag 16 totDonderdag18Junie om 20:30, asook op Saterdag 25 Julie

Dieproduksiehet uitverkoop by die Aardklop-kunstefees en dieKKNK.

MagdaenErhardLouw besluit om die padtevat en dieverhoog te betree —sonaelkouend en mompelend soos net hullekan

Landmarktheatre opensdoorswider

The Artscape TheatreCentre willmark55 years of performanceand transformation on Tuesday19May,a milestone that speaks notonlytothe myriad productions staged within its walls,but also to the storyofacountryintransition

Openedin1971asthe Nico Malan Theatre, aspace reserved foraselect fewunder apartheid, it has sinceevolved intoacultural home forall South Africans. This anniversary, celebrated underthe theme "A Placefor All",honoursthat long and significant journey.

Celebrations

Theanniversaryprogramme launches at 11:00 on 19 Maywith the unveiling of amemorywallentitled "Becoming Artscape —aplace reborn", followed by an open press conferencetowhich the public is also invited. At 12:00,everyone is encouragedtotake part in ahistoric photograph on the stepsof the building.The morning concludes witha freelunchtime concert at the Artscape Opera Bar,running until 13:30

Performing at the concert willbe four school bands: Mbekweni CMA,Cedar High School, Rhodes HighSchool and Athlone School forthe Blind Admission is free,and allare welcome.

Thelunchtime concert series formspart of Artscape's ongoing commitment to access,championed under the leadershipofCEO MarleneleRoux.These concerts have become aregular andmuch-loved feature, offering manytheir first experience of live performanceinside the theatre, notasspectators but participants.

What's on throughout the year

Theanniversaryprogramme extendswellbeyond May. On 6June the Artscape Career Expo offers young peopleabehind-the-scenes look at the full

rangeof professionsthatmaketheatrepossible, from lighting andsounddesign to costume,technicaloperations and building management

Aseries of Saturdaymasterclasses willrun from MaytoNovember.The first,FastTrack to Opening Night, takesplace on 23 MaywithKMH Architects, coveringthe design, construction and accessibility ofthe Artscapebuilding. Afollow-up masterclass, facilitatedbyAfricaMelane,willfocus on funding thearts.

On 8November,ananniversarygalaconcert, producedand directed by BasilAppollis, featured in the theatre's50th-anniversary celebration, promisesto be aglamorous evening to remember Special R55tickets

Aspartofthe anniversarycelebrations,a limited number of R55 early-bird tickets willbemade available forselectperformancesinthe OperaHouse andTheatre.Limited to twoper person, tickets are availablethrough Dial-A-Seatonafirst-come,firstserved basis.

Le Roux reflected on thetheatre'sjourney: "This buildinghas walked along road, from aspace that excludedthe majority of South Africans,toone that nowactively welcomesand embracesall whoenter it. Accessibilityisnot aconcept forus; it is adaily commitment. Whether it is physical access forpeoplewithdisabilities, representation on our stages or ensuring that peoplefeel they belong herethis is the work we do everyday," said Le Roux reflectingon thetheatre's journey.

ZakGordon, chairmanofthe Artscape board, echoed thesentiment:"As we mark55years,our focus remains on ensuring Artscape continues to serveasaninclusiveplatformfor expression,access andopportunityfor all."

Lamtabrings KillerQueen to thestage this winter

Cape Town dancelovers have something to look forwardtothis winter, as the Luitingh Alexander Musical TheatreAcademy(Lamta) bringsits latest production, KillerQueen, to Theatreonthe Bay from 4to20June

Conceived and directed by NalediAward-winning LamtafoundersAnton Luitingh andDuane Alexander,the showisa high-energy celebrationof the musicofQueen —one of the world's most enduring rock bands. Weaving together powerful choreography, striking visualsand the unmistakable energy of Queen's legendary catalogue, it promisestobe

aspectacular winter outing fortheatreand dance enthusiastsalike

Theannouncement followsthe academy's recent success with Joseph and theAmazingTechnicolour Dreamcoat, co-produced with Pieter Toerien,which earned multiple accoladesatthe Naledi Theatre Awards in Johannesburg. Lamta'sannual productionshavebecome afirm fixtureonthe Cape Town performing arts calendar, with Hollywood (2024) andBeyond (2025)both sellingout before opening night.KillerQueen is widelyexpected to follow suit

Theproductionfeatures an impressive roster of choreographers— including Michelle Reid,Jared Schaedler,Robinvan Wyk, ChesneyStanfield, Emile Petersen,Brandon Herbstand Ashley Searle,among others —bringing afresh anddynamic interpretation to theband's iconic songbook Luitingh also musicallydirects aselection of vocal numbers, afeature that hasbecome afan favourite in recent Lamtaproductions.

Performed over twoacts, theshowshowcases Lamtastudentsfromfirsttothird year,taking audiencesthrough Queen's greatest hits and hidden gems,including "WeWillRock You", "Somebody to Love", "The ShowMust Go On"and "WeAre the Champions", allreimagined throughexpressive and dynamic movement

. Performances runnightly at 20:00, with Saturday matinees at 15:00.

. Tickets areavailablefromR200at Webtickets, or throughthe theatre'sbox office on 021438 3300

Die tema vanhul teaterdebuut is die liefde,maar dieliefdeuit MagdaenErhardseperspektief is effens andersasdie liefde waarvanons in boekelees of in films sien. In dieteaterproduksie (ofkonsert soos Erhard ditnoem) sien ons hoe MagdaenErhard hulbes probeer, maar ditsukkel. Is hulle regomop

die feesteseverhoë te klim?

In 'n tipe "NoisesOff!"-formaat neem Erharden Magdaons deur die prosestotdat hulle uiteindelik ook saam met die gehoor die waansinnigheidvan die 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 aanvaar soos die middeljare jou tref Dis 'n komiesestuk, maar met 'n dieper boodskap: dat ons uiteindelik maar die padmet iemandwil stap,alirriteer hulle ons of dryf hulle ons na drank. Daar salook interaksiemet die gehoor wees. Kaartjies kosR260 . Bespreek by www.dieboer.com

LiebenbergenBergbyDie Boer

Johan LiebenbergenCharlizeBergspankragtesaam in Diamonds andDivas by Die Boer-teaterrestaurant op Dinsdag26enDonderdag28Mei om 20:30 Maakreg vir’naandvol musiek vandie grootste manlikeenvroulikekunstenaarsvan alle tye—met treffersvan Neil Diamond, Celine Dion, Michael Bublé, Lady Gaga,BruceSpringsteen, Adele, Frank Sinatra,TinaTurner en meer. Hierdieproduksiebring twee gevestigde Suid-Afrikaanse stemmebymekaar:Liebenbergisbekend vir sy warm,storievertellende styl en sy passie virtydlose liedjies. Hy hetalinverskeieverhoogproduksies opgetree en is veralgeliefd virsyinterpretasies van klassiekekunstenaarsensyvermoë om ’n gehoor vandie eerstenoot af vastevang. Berg is ’n kragtige en elegantesangeresmet ’n unieke stem —bekend virhaar dinamieseverhoogteenwoordigheidenemosionelevertolkings. Sy het haar naam gevestigindie Afrikaanse musiekbedryf en bou voortaan haar loopbaanmet nuwe musiek en indrukwekkende optredes. . Kaartjieskos R220.Bespreekby www.dieboer.com of by 021979 1911

DAGBOEK /DIARY

. TheDrama LabatTable View Primary presentsAnnieatthe school from 8to16May.Tickets at Quicket.

. Alfred Adriaan'sbrand newshow, PositiveStrokes, is at TheHomecoming CentreonWednesday 13 and Thursday 14 Mayat19:30.Tickets from R200 to R250 at Webtickets.

. Eden tree op Saterdag 16 Meiom20:30byHeroes Brackenfellop. Kaartjieskos R260 totR300. Bespreek by www.heroeslive.net

. Die Stadskoor Tygerberg bied op Sondag17Mei om 16:00Sunday Afternoon Reflections in dieNGkerk De TygerinHannes Louwstraat,Parow-Noord, aan. Vandie gewyde koorwerkewat gehoor gaan word,is"Cantate Domino" deur Mark Hayes, "O vosomnes" vanPau Casals,"Benedictus" vanKarl Jenkins en "Via Dolorosa" deur BillySprague en NilesBorop.Kaartjies kosR120. Bespreek by Suzettevan Wykby083 2639335. Daar salook kaartjiesbydie deurebeskikbaar wees.

. Cape Town Operapresents GeorgesBizet's Carmen, astory of passion, freedomand jealousyatArtscape from 19 to 31 May. TicketsfromR180 at Webtickets

. Millennium tree op Vrydag 22 Meiom20:30by Heroes Brackenfellop. Kaartjieskos R120 totR140. Bespreek by www.heroeslive.net

. ACDC DuetXchange2026, atwo-day festival of danceperformance andcompetition, is at TheHomecoming CentreonFriday22and Saturday23May at 19:00. TicketsR150 at Webtickets.

. XollyMncwango:The Unusual Encounter is at the GrandArena,GrandWest on Saturday 23 Mayat18:00. TicketsfromR300 at Webtickets.

. Boyz II MenLiveinSouth Africa Tour is at the Grand

Arena, GrandWest on Wednesday27May at 18:00

TicketsfromR750 at Webtickets

. TheRockyHorror ShowisatTheatreonthe Bayin CampsBay currently until 31 May. Theproduction is ratedPG16.Tickets start from R200.Book at Webticketsoron021 4383300

. TheJiveCapeTownFunnyFestivalruns at The Baxter from 28 Mayto21June.Tickets from R190 to R250 at Webtickets

. JayenLianie MaytreeopVrydag29Mei om 20:30 by Heroes Brackenfellop. Kaartjies kosR180 totR220. Bespreek by www.heroeslive.net

. Please,don't call me moffieruns at Artscapefrom2 to 6June.Nounder16s. TicketsR150atWebtickets. . KillerQueen -A LamtaDanceProduction runs from 4to20June at Theatreonthe Bay. TicketsfromR200 at Webtickets

. Spoegwolf tree op Saterdag 6Junie om 20:30 by Heroes Brackenfellop. Kaartjies kosR290tot R350 Bespreek by www.heroeslive.net

. Cape Town Concert Series: Charl du Plessis– Mozart Mambo &MerlotisonSaturday6June at 15:00 at The Baxter.Tickets from R100toR300atWebtickets. . Cape Town City BalletpresentsOrpheus in the Underworldfrom12to21June at Artscape. Ticketsfrom R225 to R650atWebtickets.

. Don Vino Saxy Vibes 8isatthe Grand Arena, GrandWest on Saturday13June at 19:00.Tickets R190 to R350 at Webtickets

. Centre Stage–Dancing intothe futureisonTuesday 16 June at 19:00 at Artscape. TicketsfromR180 to R300 at Webtickets

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Badisa TrioBellville soek na : Kirsten Cornelius, John Scoble, BrendaAbrahams and Jagery Hendricks 021 945 1064.

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