TygerBurger | Kuilsrivier | E-edition | 8 July 2026
“Anairport thatserves theworld means very little if it no longer serves the people whocall this place home,” said André Brink, fourth-generation owner of Groot Phesantekraal Wine Estate in Durbanville Wine Valley and SA Farmer of the Year last year.
Brinkquestioned whether an airport of thescaleofCape Winelands Airport is beingbuilt in the right location.
Brink, who was namedSouth Africa’s Farmerofthe Year2024 by Agricultural Writers SA (AWSA), was one of the speakers at ameeting about Cape Winelands Airport last Thursday of the Tygerberg Chapterofthe Cape Chamber of Commerce and Industry at Stadio Higher Education.
FINDINGBALANCE
He spoke about the importance of finding abalance between development and preservingDurbanville’sunique character, history andagriculturalheritage.
Other speakers were Deon Cloete, executive managingdirector of Cape
Winelands Aero and executive director of RSA Aero Limited, and Jeremy Wiley of Western Cape Property Development Forum and director of De Goede Hoop Development Company.
SECONDRUNWAY
“Years ago, Cape Town International Airport reportedly received an offer from an international airline to build asecond runway at no cost, but the offer was declined. Ioften wonder what the reason for that decision was.
“One of the main arguments in support of thisairport application was that it would serve as an alternative airport if aircraft were unable to land at Cape Town International. TOPAGE4
Airportjoins forceswithUS
CapeWinelandsAirportand Stellenbosch University (US) forged a strategic partnership forsmart and sustainabledevelopment.
They have entered into acooperation agreementaimedatadvancing innovation under theshared themesof“smart”and “green” development.
Cape Winelands Airport, formerly Fisantekraal Airfield, is aprivately ledairport development about 13km outside Durbanville. Currently serving as ageneral aviation facility and a popular base for flight training, plans are underway to expand and to develop astate-of-the-art,green,smart and innovative aviation precinct that will serve as amodern gateway for the region.
JOINTCOMMITMENT
The partnership reflects ajoint commitment to foster sustainable growth anddrive academic advancement, according to ajointmedia release by Cape Winelands Airport and US.
The agreementoutlines abroad range of collaborative focus areas,including agriculture and food processing, spatial planning, transport andlogistics, space and aviation research,and theintegration of airport operations with urban development.
Through this partnership, both parties will actively seek opportunities to align academic research, industry expertise, and infrastructure development to address real-world challengesand unlock new opportunities, accordingtothe media release.
SIGNIFICANTECONOMICHUB
Importantly, the collaboration aligns with theplanned expansion of Cape Winelands Airport estimated to cost in the region of R8 billion. It is anticipated that theairport expansion will transform the airport into asignificanteconomic hub over thecoming years.
Thescaleand long-term nature of the project present aunique platform for practical learning, appliedresearch, innovation, and industry collaboration acrossmultiple disciplines
PARTNERSHIP-DRIVENDEVELOPMENT
Engineeringcollaborationisexpected to play acentralrole in the partnership, with both partiesidentifying opportunities for technical cooperation, infrastructure innovation, operational efficiency, and future-focused engineering solutions linkedtoairport expansion and aviation infrastructure development.
“Thisinitiative speaks directly to the kindofpartnership-driven development we believe in, where infrastructure, innovation and skills cometogether to createrealimpact. TheCape Winelands Airport project offers an opportunity to build adynamic ecosystem that can unlockeconomicgrowth, support emerging industries, andposition theregion as ahub of innovation and opportunity,”said ProfDeresh Ramjugernath,rectorand vice-chancellor of Stellenbosch University.
IMPORTANTMILESTONE
Deon Cloete, managing director for Cape Winelands Airport, said “this cooperation marksanimportant milestone for theairport. The airport expansion presents aunique long-term opportunity to connect academiaand industry in a way that creates meaningful economic
and educational impact. By working closely with Stellenbosch University, we are creating aplatform to explorefuturefocused solutions that benefitthe aviation sector, students, and the broader regional economy.”
ENGINEERINGMANAGEMENTPROGRAMME
Theinitial areas of potential collaboration include building student capacity through applied research opportunities linked to the airport’s development and operational environment This may include research projects for master’s studentswithin Stellenbosch University’s engineering management programme focused on areas of strategic interest to Cape Winelands Airport.
Thepartnership will further explore opportunities to establish facilities and spaces that support testing, innovation, prototyping, and future productionrelated activities linked to aviation, infrastructure, logistics, and smart technologies.
“The airport expansion also presents opportunities to contribute towards the development of future aviation talent pipelines within SouthAfrica. Through collaboration with Stellenbosch University and broader industry stakeholders, Cape Winelands Airport is interested to explore opportunities linked to aviation skills development, pilot training pathways, airport operations, engineering disciplines, and future-focused transport and logistics capabilities. Theintention is to create a long-term skills ecosystem that supports both economic growth and human capital development in the Western Cape,” said Cloete.
“From aresearch and innovation perspective, this collaboration creates valuable opportunities for interdisciplinary engagement across fields ranging from engineering to agriculture. By strengthening partnerships between academia and industry, we can foster knowledge exchange and contribute to innovative solutions that benefit both the region and societymore broadly,” said Prof Sibusiso Moyo, deputy vicechancellor: research, innovation and internationalisation at Stellenbosch University.
REGIONALECONOMICDEVELOPMENT
Beyond itsaviation role, the airport expansion is expected to become amajor driver of regional economic development and jobcreation within the WesternCape, according to the media release.
“The development of amodern airport ecosystem of thisscale creates substantial opportunities for collaboration between academia, industry, government, and the broader aviation sector. It provides a real-world environment in which students, researchers, and industry specialists can engage directly with complex challenges related to aviation operations, infrastructure planning, engineering, logistics, sustainability, environmental management, transport systems, smart technologies, and regional development” concluded Cloete.
Arosecareand winterpruning workshop willbe presentedbythe CityofCape Town's recreationand parksdepartmentinthe DurbanvilleRose Garden on Saturday11Julyfrom10:00 to 13:00 Themorning willincludepresentations on rose care,pest and disease management,aswellasa practical pruning demonstration. Tea, coffee and refreshmentswillbeprovided. This is an open invitationtoall garden enthusiasts and no confirming of attendanceisrequired. yp xpo
Cityhonoursfallenheroes
The City of Cape Town has honouredthe bravery and sacrifice of staff members who lost their lives in the lineofduty during itsannual Remembrance Day Service at the Civic Centre on Saturday4July.
CEREMONY
The annual ceremony is held alongside the memorial wall, unveiled in2017, which commemorates enforcement and emergency services personnel who died while serving their communities.
This year, the names of four additional staff members were added, bringing the total number of names on the wall to 51, datingback to 1907.
HONOURINGLIVESOFSERVICE
Executive Mayor GeordinHill-Lewis saidthe annual commemorationserves as areminder of the extraordinary commitment shown by those who dedicate their lives to protecting others.
“Every name we remember today represents alifeofservice.
“A person who chose aprofession that askedmore of them than most careers ever will.
They understood that wearing the uniform meant accepting risks thatmany people wouldnever willingly face. That choice alone deserves our respect,” said Hill-Lewis.
He said whether they served in metro police, law enforcement,Traffic Services, Fire &Rescue Service or Disaster Risk Management, they all shared acommon purpose.
“These menand women accepted a simple but profound responsibility:to protect others, even when doing so placed them in harm’s way.”
REMEMBRANCEDAY COMMEMMORATES PUBLIC SERVANTSWHO LOST THEIR LIVES IN THE LINEOFDUTY
FOURNAMESADDEDTOMEMORIALWALL
The City honouredfourstaff members whosenames have now been permanently added to the memorial wall. They are:
. lawenforcementofficer Mogamat Shakeel Abrahams, who died in amotor vehicle accident on 17 August 2025;
. MetroPolice Neighbourhood Safety Officer Tyler Lamb, who died on 7 November2025 after falling from aroof during astruggle with asuspectin Kensington;
.FirefighterMario Aisley, who suffered afatalheart attack while on duty on 13 May 2026; and
.LEAP officerLyle Thomas, who was offduty when he stopped to assistatan accident sceneafter identifying himselfto police before beingstruckbyanalleged drunk driver.
ALASTINGLEGACY
The memorial wall nowbears the names of 51 City staff members who have diedin the line of duty overmore thana century, recognising their serviceand ensuring their sacrifices are notforgotten.
The ceremonyalso acknowledged staffmembers who died while off duty, including YonkePakade,Luyolo Mene, Nopinki April, Gavin du Preez and Francois Slabbert.
CALLTOSUPPORTONEANOTHER
Mayco memberfor safety andsecurity, JP Smith, thanked City staff for their
dedication and encouraged colleagues to continue supporting oneanother.
“Today is an opportunity for us to celebrateand honour members who passed in thelineofduty, but we must never lose sightofthe fact that thosewho passed off duty alsoleft an impact,were also somebody’s friend, someone’s partner, and someone’s family member.”
He urgedstaff to continue looking out for oneanother, saying that by guiding, encouraging andhelping each other,“together, we are stronger as a directorate.”
ExecutiveMayor Geordin Hill-Lewis paid tributetoCitystaff whomadethe ultimatesacrificewhileserving their communities
JP Smith honoured fallen colleagues and recognised the commitment of Cape Town’s safety and securitypersonnel.
Bylawtacklesillegalbuildings
Kiddo nursery campuscelebrate 25 years
Kiddo Campus recently celebrated its 25th birthday with aspectacular Wonderland-themed Open Day, bringing together current,past, and future families for aday filled withfun, laughter, and cherished memories. Each classroom was transformed into aunique Wonderland-inspired experience, complete with creativedecorations and
exciting activities linkedtothe theme. Learnersembracedthe celebrationbydressingupfor the occasion and proudly taking part in acolourful fashion parade
The day wasfilled with music, singing, birthdaycake,and plenty of opportunities forchildrento playand make memories with friends and families. It was a joyful celebrationofthe strong community thathas supported
Kiddo Campus overthe past 25 years “Kiddo Campus is incredibly gratefulfor thelove and support of its families, dedicated staff, and widercommunity. Celebrating this milestoneisa testament to 25 years of nurturingyoung minds, and thecampuslooksforward to many more years of creating happy childhood memories”, said managerBenita Azevedo.
Staff from left: TamaraKavanagh,Lee-Ande Renoster,Roleen Griewels,Hannelie Bekker,Priscilla Saayman,BenitaAzevedo,Adrienne Jacobsand AlisaJoseph.
Jordan Skrikker as a“bunny” Novak-Seth Robynwith his parentsCallan and Denroy Robyn.
Jordan Skrikker andGrace Singh having fun.
75jaarvan‘ngelukkigehuwelik
DESIRÉERORKE
DESIREE.RORKE@TYGERBURGER.CO.ZA
Dit is al baie gesê, maar dit wíl gesê word as 'n paartjie wat al meer as sewe dekades bymekaar is, vir jou sê daariseen groot geheim tot 'n suksesvollehuwelik, en dit is: "Jy gaan nooit kwaadvir mekaar slaap nie. Praat 'n ding uitenmaak vrede metmekaar. Teen die oggend het jy al daarvan vergeet."
'n Week voor hul 75ste huweliksherdenking op 7Julie praatKallie (98) en Sarievan Wyk(94) met TygerBurger oor die huwelik vanuit hul sonnige voorkamer in Vredekloofhoogte, Kaapstad. Die tweeisdeftig aangetrek, en jy kan Sariedeur 'n ring trek.Daar is 'n gemaklikheid tussen die twee.
"Ons het 'n lang lewe saam agter die rug, maar dié lewe was goed vir ons. Onsis gelukkig," sê Kallie.
Kallie is in Calviniaindie Noord-Kaap gebore en hetdaar grootgeword. Sarieis in Wakkerstroom in Mpumalanga gebore en het in Piet Retief grootgeword —altwee plaaskinders.
Hulle het mekaar later as jongmense in Pretoria ontmoet, waar hulle albei vir die onderwysdepartementaan dieselfde projek gewerk het, toe die vonk tussen hulle opgevlam het.
'n Mooi romanse het gevolg en in 1951 het sy die jawoord gegee.
"Ons het besluit om te kykofons die lewe saam kan doen," sê Kallie.
Hy verwysmet liefde na haar as "my skat", en sy kyk met deernis na hom
Hul troudag was op 'n sonnige winterdag buite Pretoria, op die dag van die Durban July, onthou Kallie, en hy kan nog selfs die naam van sy wenperd onthou.
"Die onthaal is op die plaasgehou en al die bure het gekom. Ditwas nie 'n stywe
PAARTJIE SE RAAD AAN JONG
GETROUDESISOMNOOIT
KWAAD VIRMEKAAR TE
GAAN SLAAP NIEEN
ALTYD VREDE TE MAAK
affêre nie," sê Sarie. "My ma het my rok gemaak en dit hetmaar vier pond gekos."
Uit die huwelik is 'n seun en 'n dogter gebore, en vandag bringvyf kleinkinders en 'n dosyn agterkleinkinders tonneliefde in hul lewens in."Dis altyd so lekker om hulle tesien," sê Sarie.
Kallie het lateronderwyser en toe skoolhoof in Pretoria geword, en ná jare van aftrede het hulle in 2002 Kaap toe getrek.
HARDMAARLEKKER
Die huwelik, sê die Van Wyks, word met die jare gesout.
"Omdeur dik en dun te staan, beteken julle staan saam deur die goeie en die slegte tye. Onshet onsverskille gehad en klippe saam opgeëet, maar ook lekker kos. Die Vader sorg vir jou.Ekglo die lewe wat Hy jougee, komvan Bo af," sê Kallie. Soosinenige anderhuwelik, sê Sarie, wasdaar ook maar "baie dingetjies".Maar dit alswordmet geloof oorkom, voeg
Kallie by.
Daniswedersydse respek en uithouvermoë ook 'n belangrike bestanddeel van 'n sterk huwelik, stem die twee saam.
Sarie lag breed terwyl sy vir Kallie sê om sy oretoe te druk, en fluister toe die storie oordie aandwat hy laat by die huis opgedaag het
Nadathydie dag die tennistoernooi
gewen het,het hy saam metvriende by 'n plaaslike hotel—waarvan hy nog die naam onthou —syoorwinning gaan vier.
"Tydvir aandete het gekom en gegaan. Ek was darem maar viestoe hy laataand by die huisaankom," sê sy."Dit was seker die enigstekeer in al die jare wat ek gedink hetnou skopekjou uit."
Kallie glimlag skuldig."Ek dink nie daar is 'n huwelik sonder uitdagings nie, en ons het ook onsdeel gehad," sê hy.
TENNIS,KAMPEERENDIEWILDTUIN
Maar oor die goeie herinneringe kan hulle nieuitgesels raak nie.
Kallie sê dit wasjuisgoeie vriendskappe en volop samesyn wat die huwelik lekker gemaak het.
"Onshet sulke goeie vriende gehad ons helelewelank.Ons hetsaam tennis gespeel, saam gekamp —vir 46 jaar lank. Ons was baie liefvir die Wildtuin en het soms drie keer per jaar die karavaan gehaak en daar gaan kuier. Onshet die beste van Suid-Afrikagesien en met min geld klaargekom."
Kallie was 'n kranige tennisspeler en naweke is saam met kindersenvriende by die tennisbane deurgebring.
"Ek het eintlik netbal geslaan, maar die kinders hetaltyd saamgekom —my jongste van babadae af," onthou Sarie. Gesondheidsuitdagings was daar gelukkig nie te veel nie, en dit help. "Ons is geseënd."
En souhulle mekaar weer kies? "Ja-nee, ek hetdie regte man gekies," sê Sarie sonder huiwering. "Hy ken al my nukke en grille." Kallie glimlag.
Dan staan die twee saam vir 'n foto. Met haar man se arm beskermend om haar skouershaak Sarie liefdevol by hom in. As hulle glimlag, glinster 75 jaar se liefde in die tweeseoë.
Kallie(98) en Sarie (94) vanWyk is vanjaar 75 jaar getroud
Hockeystarearns nationalstripes
Kuils River hockey star Sarah-EllenGroenewald has shownthat determination counts for as much as talent.
The Rhenish Girls’ High Schoolmatric learner earnedselection to the South African u-18A hockey team for the second consecutive year, despite aserious ankle injuryinthe lead-up to the u-18 InterProvincial Hockey Tournament inHilton, KwaZulu-Natal.
She partially tore aligament justnine daysbefore the tournament. Refusing to miss her final national schooltournament, she completedround-the-clock rehabilitation to takeher place on the turf. Groenewald has represented Boland in hockey at u-16 (2023), u-17 (2024) and u-18(2025 and 2026) level, and also played tennis for Boland up to u-16 level. In 2024, sherepresented South Africa at u-17 level in Malaysia, competing against the likes of Japanand Australia. Later that year she played apivotalrole in the SA u-17 team’s series win over Zimbabwe, walking away withaplayer of the match accolade. She kicked off her matric year being named player of the tournament at the St Mary’s SchoolgirlHockey Tournament. At just18 years old, she has since made her senior debut forthe Western Province Peninsula indoor team and secured aplace in theWP u-21ladies’ hockey team.
She has set her sights on the South African u-21 national setup, with the goal of wearing the senior Green and Goldon the world stage.
KUILSRIVER MATRICULANTHAS
STELLAR SPORTS CAREER WHICH CULMINATED IN THE U-18 SELECTION FORSOUTH AFRICAN SQUAD
Sarah-EllenGroenewald from KuilsRiver
LeoniWessels,verhoudingsbestuurder by Absa PremiumBesigheidsbank,is saam met voormaligefinaliste, EmileDawsonenJané de Villiers. FOTO:CHARLDEVENISH
Citybreakstourismrecords
Cstill.Weinvest,innovateand
Framework 2030aims to increase visitor spendingtoR34 billion and double tourism jobs to over 200 000 by the end of the decade
“Cape Town doesnot stand still. We invest, innovate andcompete. My ambition is to see tourism createopportunities in every community andsupport more jobs acrossour city.”
However, the report highlighted asharp contrast in domestic tourism performance. Local tourism spend fell approximately 32% from R8 billion in 2024 to R5,5billion in 2025, despite domestic overnight visitor numbersremainingclose to international figuresataround 1,42 million.The average stay for domestic visitors dropped from 5,2 nightsto4,4 nights, with daily spend decliningtoR882.
To counter the decline in domestic spend, Cape Town Tourism has launched three targetedinitiatives, accordingto Cape Town Tourism CEO Enver Duminy.Adomestic campaign encouraging local travel under thetagline“Youdon’t need aholiday, you need My Cape Town”; aregional partnership with Zimbabwe andNamibia that has already grown arrivals by 17%; andthe “One Small World” international brandplatform targetinghigh-valuelong-haul travellers.”
“We do not wait for conditions to change, we go outand create them,” he concluded.
Die lugverkoelde enjins word warm gemaak, terwyl klassiekeVolkswagen-entoesiastevoorberei vir ’n gesinsvriendelike winterkonvooi wat op Saterdag 11 Julie deur dele van die Wes-Kaap gaan ry.
TheWild Buggers Beach Buggy Clubhet hul Propellers &Pistonswinterrit aangekondig en nooi eienaars van duinebesies, Baja Bugs en ouskool- VW Kewers om aan die ontspanne daguitstappie deel te neem.
KONVOOIBEGININMILNERTON
Dierit beginom09:00 by Woodbridge-eiland in Milnerton, waar voertuie bymekaarkom voordat die konvooi om 09:30 vertrek. Van daar af beweeg die groepnadie Suid-Afrikaanse Lugmagmuseum op Ysterplaat, waar deelnemers die geleentheid kry om historiese vliegtuie en helikopterstebesigtig.
Ná die museumbesoek ry die konvooi binneland toe na die Paarlvir ’n gesellige middagete by Cape to Rio Fisheries, bekend vir sy vis en tjips Dieroete kombineer plaaslike geskiedenis met van die WesKaap se mooiste oop paaie.
OOPVIRKLASSIEKE-VW-ENTOESIASTE
Dieorganiseerders sê die doel van die rit is om die plaaslike motorkultuur te vier en eienaars aan te moedig om hul voertuie weer op die pad te bring.
Anton Kleynbydie Suid-Afrikaanse LugmagmuseumopYsterplaat.
Die geleentheid is oop vir alle lugverkoelde-Volkswagenklassiekers en is ontwerp as ’n rustige, gesinsvriendelike daguitstappie.
“Die lugverkoelde enjins word warm gemaak, en ons soek nog klassiekeVW’sombyons konvooi aan te sluit,” sê Anton Kleyn van TheWild Buggers Beach Buggy Club.
“Dit sal fantasties wees as plaaslike eienaars hul motors onder die stof uithaal en saam met ons die winterrit geniet.” Kleyn en sy groen Kangoduinebesie, “Shrek”, sal ook deel van die konvooi wees en by die Lugmagmuseum op Ysterplaat te sien wees as deel van die voorbereidings vir die rit . Kontak Mickey by 082497 7721 of besoek:https://wildbuggers.co.za/ next-event/vir meer inligting of om aan te sluit
Arecord11,1million two-waypassengerstravelledthrough Cape Town International Airport in 2025.
Sport is asource of hope,pride,unity
Sport is often described as agame, butfor millions of people it is much more than that. It is asource of hope, pride, identity and unity.
In South Africa, where ourhistory is markedbydivision and inequality,sport has proven its abilitytobringpeople together in ways that politics and social programmes cannot.
It reminds us that despite our differences, we share common dreamsand emotions.
Just afew weeks ago, the nation celebrated when Bafana Bafana made South African football history by reaching the Fifa World Cup knockout stages for the firsttimebydefeating SouthKorea1-0 in theirfinal groupgame.
Theirdisappointing defeat toCanada in thelast32ofthe competition,whichsaw them bowing outofthe tournament, serves as aperfectexample.
As thefinal whistle blew, millions of SouthAfricans experienced the same feeling of heartbreak.Inthatmoment,we were not divided by language, religion or social status. We were simply South Africans supporting our team.
This is the unique power of sport. It creates moments where differences disappear, even if only for awhile. It allows strangers to celebratetogether, comfortone another and believe in something bigger than themselves.
Sport has the abilitytounite communities around acommon purpose
South Africa has witnessedthis power before. The1995 RugbyWorld Cup remainsone of the greatest examples of
SPORTGIVEUSREASONSTO BELIEVEINONEANOTHER
sport promoting national unity. When the Springboks lifted theWebb EllisCup, it was more than asporting victory.It became asymbol of reconciliation.
Former President Nelson Mandela understood that sportcould healwounds andbuild bridges wherewords alone could not.
Sportalso inspires the next generation. Young athletes learnvaluable life skills such as discipline, teamwork, perseverance and respect.
Many children growing up in disadvantaged communitiessee successful sportsmen and women as proof thathard work anddetermination canovercome difficult circumstances.
For some, the sportsfieldbecomes a place of opportunityand hope rather than despair
However, the power of sport should not only be celebrated during victories. Defeat also teaches important lessons. Losing remindsusthat successrequires resilience, patience and continuous improvement. Bafana Bafana's recent loss may haveended the dream of lifting atrophy, but it also showed howdeeply South Africans care about theirnational team.The pain of defeat is evidence ofthe passion and unity that football continues to inspire.
As anation, we should continue investing in school sport,community facilities andathlete development.
Sporting success doesnot happen by chance. It requires proper planning, funding and support from government, businesses and communities. It requires us to recognise sport as an investment in social cohesion rather than merely entertainment.
The true value of sport cannot be measured by trophies alone.Its greatest achievementlies in itsability to unite people.
Sportgive us reasons to believe in one anotherand in the nation we are building. -KAYLYNNEBANTOM
Rietvleihas more to offer
Recent discussion around thetemporaryclosure of wateractivities at Rietvlei mayhavecreated the impression that the reserveitselfwas closed. This was not the case.The area where wateractivities take placerepresents only asmallportion of Rietvlei, and it wasonlythis section that wastemporarilyclosed The663-hectareNatureReserve remained open to the public throughout andcontinues to offer awide rangeofattractions forvisitors. Rietvlei is afavourite destination forbirdwatchers, with its well-maintained birdhideprovidingexcellent viewingopportunities.
Thereserve also offers picnic areas, line fishing (with the required permit), andeducational activities forchildren during school holidays,centred aroundthe wooden education centrebuiltand maintained by the FriendsofRietvlei.
We also host regulartalks by conservation experts on topics of environmentalinterest.Itisworth remembering that,thanks to the efforts of dedicated residents in 1984,Rietvlei wasprotected from being developed intoaresidential marina.
Today, it is atreasured natural area that supports pelicans, flamingos andaround165 other birdspecies.
In this regard,the City's Bayside Canalproject,which aimstoimprovestormwatermanagement before waterenters Rietvlei, is awelcome initiativethatwillhelp safeguard the health of this importantecosystem.
We encourageresidents to enjoyall that Rietvlei hastooffer —includingwater sports when conditions allow—while continuingtosupport the conservation of this unique natural asset forfuture generations.
NELIS
VISAGIE, Friends of Rietvlei
Call centre rises to the occasion in Maystorms
Following the devastation that followedthe storm around 11 May, it washeartwarmingtosee residents coming outtohelpthose who were most affected by the wind and torrential rain
Weather eventssuchasthisone requirethe City to be fullyoperational in handlingservicecalls and emergencycalls.Weoften rely on our residents to be our eyes on the groundalertingustoemergencies.
As the Maycomember forcorporateservices, Iam extremelyproud of howour call centreagents riseto the occasion.
In Mayalone theCity's Customer Relations Department recorded atotal of 271940 customer interactions between 1and 28 May2026.Thisexceptional numberdemonstrates the high demand formunicipal services andthe importance of multiplecustomer engagementchannels.The interactions included 116 758 telephone calls, 36 990 emails, 109 125WhatsApp engagements,and 9067 SMS interactionsacrossthe City'sAccountsand General,Water,and Electricity servicequeues. Thesenumbers do not includecalls made to the 107safetyand securitynumber
If youare in need of aserviceorincaseofan emergency, youcan contact the City via logginga C3
request:
Theprimarygoalofservicerequests is to ensure effectiveservicedeliverythroughoutCape Town. If you wouldliketosubmit aservicerequest,report afault in your area or loganissue, youcan do so via ourcustomer call centreat0860 103089 or online at www capetown.gov.za/servicerequests. Youcan also useour WhatsApp number060 018 1505
While we understand the distress of being, forinstance,without powerorwater,I wouldliketoremind peoplenot to lognumerous servicerequests on the same issue.Itcauses bottlenecksinthe system
As we buildaCitythatisabeaconofhope,it'salso areality that in extreme emergencysituationsthereis ahierarchyofresponses, rather like the triage system that operates in healthcarefacilities. Theaggravation of nothavingpowerina safe domestic setting has to be weighed against the risksofliveelectric wires having been blownintoroads.
Iwouldliketothank those residents who helped out their neighbours, donated food andblankets to those displaced by storm damage.Together we can indeed buildabetterfuture.
THERESA UYS, Durbanville
Advocatingfor motorcycle safety,licensing
With the petrol prices rising, most likely we will see moremotorcycles aroundasanalternativecommute option. Ican remember in the 80swhenmynow husband used to travel with his50cctovisit me,almostgot pulledoverevery daytohavehis motorcycle licencechecked.
He gotsousedtoitthathemade sure he had it with him, becauseinthose days therewas no licencecard like these days.Itseems that the only time thatweget pulledoveriswhenwetravel long distanceswith the bikes or to abikeevent
Thesecheckswillalsoclear up the general question everyone hasabout, especially the motorcycledelivery riders goingaroundand that “theysurelydonot have alicence”, becauseoftheir ridingskills Iamall forthese checkspurelyfor the fact that anyone who does nothavealicence, no matter what vehicle, should notride andshouldnot be on the road. Ialsofeel stronglyaboutthe fact that everyone who gets intoavehicletodrivealsoshouldhaveat leastthird-partyinsuranceaswell.
MOTORCYCLE COMMUTER, Philadelphia
‘KIDSINRAIN’: Carima vanden Berg,aregular Vergelegen visitor with her grandchildren,won thePeople’sChoiceaward and took second placein theCameraClass category in thefourth Essenceof Vergelegen photography contest.Outstanding black-and-white photographs capturing themanyfacetsofhistoric Vergelegen Wine Estate were unveiled at afunction forthe 25 finalists on Sunday 1July.
Hierdie is ‘n abnormalewinter
Hierdie sonnigewinter maak my bekommerd. Ek het nognooit so 'n lekker winter in Kaapstad beleefnie.Waar onsgewoonlikreg deur Junie en Julie reën en koue kry, het onsvanjaar meer sonskyn, blou lugentemperature watskaars onder 15 grade daal. Op die oog af lykdit wonderlik. Wiekla oor sonskyn? Maar togisekbekommerd.Klimaatkundiges waarsku dat die somerwat kom, een vandie warmsteooit gaan wees. As dit die winter is, watwag vir onsinFebruarie? Ek is bekommerddat onsweer te doen gaan krymet droogte,brandgevaar en waterbeperkings. Dit is lekker om noubuitetekan wees en nie elke dagnat te word nie,maar onsmoet onsoëoophou Hierdie tipe winter is nie normaal nie.Enasdie natuur iets vir onsprobeer sê,moetons maar begin luister 'N KAPENAAR WATDIE WOLKE MIS, E-pos
DemocracyinCape Town?Don’t make me laugh
Iamaratepayer andresident of Brackenfell, andIam furious. Without so much as aknock on ourdoors, without asingle conversation with the peoplewho live,work andpay ratesinthis area,the CityofCape Town hasgoneahead anderected informal trading bays at Jannie Engelbrecht Park,a park that ourcommunityhas maintained, used andlovedfor years. And when residents did raisetheir voices, we were told the projectwas approvedbackin2024. Nobody knew. Nobody wasasked. Nobody wastold. TheCity claims notices were delivered by hand andpublished in newspapers.
Ichallengethem to produce asingle signaturefrom aresident in this area confirmingreceipt
Anoticestuffed in aKraaifontein newspaper,a paper that is notevendistributed in Brackenfell, apparentlyqualifies as public participation in Cape Town today.
This is notdemocracy.This is the Citydoingexactly as it pleasesand dressing it up in bureaucratic languageafterward
We aretoldtotrust aprocess that excluded us. We aretoldtoaccept adecisionmade withoutus. And when we askquestions, we aremet with vague assurances.
TheDAlikes to present Cape Town as abeaconof good governance.But what kind of governance ignores its ownresidents, approves projects without proper public participation, andthen builds in the dead of night before the communitycan respond?
If this is what passes fordemocracy in Cape Town, then we have lost something farmoreimportant than apark
PHOTO:CARIMA VANDEN BERG
Localmusicianearnsorchestraplacing
Ayoung oboe player from Silversands has been appointed by the Cape Town Philharmonic Orchestra (CPO) as acadet in itsYoung Artist Development Programme
Andrea Salomo will join the CPO on 1August, alongside two other cadets.The one-year programme, which will afford the young musicians at least 20 performance opportunities, has been funded by theL&S ChiappiniTrust and the Azriel and Moira Fine Foundation.
Salomo saysthe appointment is one of her greatest achievements to date, as it has long been her career goal to play professionally in an orchestra.
“Now Ihave the honour of being part of one of the best orchestras in the country. I look forward to the experience of becoming an orchestral musician and to shaping younger musicians in the process. I especially look forward to giving back, sharing my knowledge, and gaining experience at thesame time
CADET’SFAITH, HARD WORK AND TALENT, LEADSTOCAPE TOWN PHILHARMONIC
“This is adreamcometrue oneIthought foryears was out ofreach, especially because the positions in professional spaces were allfilled. But toGod be the glory forthis opportunity, created through thiswonderfulinitiative.
When Iheard the news, Iwas ecstatic andindisbelief! It wastruly overwhelming. The emotionalroller-coaster of an audition—and asuccessfulone —overcameme. This is my first contract employment, andIam lookingforward toanexciting yearahead,” says Salomo.
She adds thatshe hashad tremendous support from family, teachers,and the community sincethe very beginningofher musiccareer.
“I trustGod’s timingand believe thatyou can literally do anything you put your mind to —yourdreamsand goals are never too big. Just work hard, be
UWC’slibrary enters digital age
The University of the Western Cape (UWC) is transformingits library servicesintoadigital knowledge hub. Leading the change is Dr Shirlene Neerputh, Directorof Library Services. Her vision is for UWC Libraries to become afuture-ready digital library integrated with technology, enabling access to information and data-driven services in the Fourth Industrial Revolution (4IR). She holdsthe view that modern libraries are defined not by physical spaces, but by their ability to connect people, ideas, technology, and knowledge in ways that promote social justice.
Her missionistoenhance UWC’s academic project through digitally transformed library services. The transformation supports UWC’s commitment to innovation, inclusivity, and academic excellence, building on its legacy as auniversity with a strong social justice mission
DIGITALLIBRARYPLANS
Neerputh has developed a new library structure built around across-functional service teamculture, alignedto UWC’s institutional operating plan for 2026–2030. The library operates according to the principles of professionalism, teamwork, and accountability. “Neerputh is helping to bridge educational divides and empower students by driving digital inclusion and creating equitable access to scholarly information for success,” the university said.
UWC has invested in digital infrastructure through the Centrefor Information and Communication Services and Innovative Education and Communication Technologies (CIECT), developing a“Digital Campus” to support learning, research, and institutional efficiency. This includes expanded campus-wide Wi-Fi connectivity, online learning platforms, cloud-
patient, andhave faith, with God on yourside,” she says.
TheCPO’s chief executive and artistic director, Adriaan Fuchs, said theprogramme was designed to equipyoung musicians with theconfidence, skills, and experience needed to pursue careersinthe industry.
“Cadetsrehearse and perform alongside professional orchestral players underthe guidanceof dedicatedCPO mentors, while alsogaining valuable insight into the orchestra’s education and community development programmes.”
Thecadetswill alsosupport activitiesatthe CPO Music Academy and the Masidlale grassrootsmusic training programme.
based computing and digital communication platforms, multimediaproduction, and digitalskillsdevelopment, ensuring thatcommunities remain digitally connected.
ACADEMICECOSYSTEM
UWC Libraries hasevolved into atechnologically enabled academic ecosystem that embeds information resources andservices into curricula and research, supporting the creation,preservation,and disseminationofknowledge. The libraries offer spaces foronline learning,with digital communication platformssupporting flexible participationand lifelong learning, driven by the Library Learning and Teaching and Scholarly Communications staff teams.
Students andacademics fromdiverse backgrounds canparticipate regardless of geographic limitations.
The rapid advancement of digital technologies, online learning, generative artificial intelligence (AI), andglobal research collaboration has disrupted how knowledge is accessed, produced, and shared.
Adigitally integrated library service enables the university to adaptquickly to emerging technologies and changing educationalmodels AI forms agrowing part of thedigitalcampus.It offers opportunities to improve teaching,learning, and research efficiencies, automate information retrieval, personalise learning experiences,and enhance administrative systems. It also introduces important ethical andacademic considerations.
Neerputh believes the transformation is built on trust,collaboration, continuous learning,and shared ownership ofinstitutional change.
“Innovationshouldalways be accompanied by ethical leadership, inclusivity, and long-term vision,” she said.
Andrea Salomo hasbeenappointed by the Cape Philharmonic Orchestra as a cadet oboe player
TheDCYouth Orchestraperforms at St George’sCathedral in the city centretonight.Book aseatatQuicket
Washington orchestraperforms
Comedyclimbsnew heights
NikRabinowitz'slateststand-up show MountainJew is at Die BoerTheatre RestaurantinDurbanville on Tuesday21 Julyat20:30 Bornina convertedbarnonthe slopes of Constantiaberg,comedian and mountain-farmboy-jewNik Rabinowitzgrew up climbingtrees and commentating on hisown rugbygamesinthree official languages, andattending aWaldorf school —wherehelearned to crochet his feelingsand divinethe precisespiritual frequencyoforganic fair-trade mohair (using onlya pentatonic flute and awatercolour of agnome). Half nature-child, half nice Jewish boy, half failed mathematician— this is hisstable-to-stand-up story: MountainJew! . Tickets areR250.Bookatwww dieboer.com or on 021979 1911.
Nik Rabinowitz
Ex-gangster’sroadtohope
LAURENO’CONNOR-MAY
LAUREN.OCONNOR-MAY@NOVUSMEDIA.CO.ZA
“You can either packyour bagsand run away, or you can fight your father.”
These were the words that Gordon de Bruin was toldasachild. It was advice from his older brother, whomhe idolised. De Bruin (37), areformed gangster and recovering addict, said the words shaped his life choices because he indeed ended up in many fights withhis abusive father “It’s not easy to leave thatenvironment, or that lifestyle,” he said. “But through my confession, Icould leave.”
De Bruin, who now works in community development after obtainingadegree in the field, said that he was attracted to gangsterism because he saw the gangsters in his area as father figures.
His family moved around in several areas of the Cape Flats, including Mitchells Plain, Hanover Park, and Bonteheuwel. His father, whowas also agangster, beat him physically, while several of his six siblings were gangsters and his eldest sister sold drugs. He was convicted of murderin2004 and sentenced in 2005 to 10 years inprison
Whileinside, he completed his matricand studied business, though he said he never took it seriously, seeing the classes as a reprievefrom the cell ratherthan away permanentway out.
TURNINGPOINT
“I alwayssay if that year 2015 can speak, then that year will tell my testimony way better thanIcan,” he said
That year, his mother, whom De Bruin says was always loving, got into afight with her sister, with whom they were living. His mother arrangedfor himto stay with apastor they knewuntil the tension cooled. The pastor took himto Camp Joy in Strandfontein
At Camp Joy,DeBruin saidhewas encouraged to makeaconfession.
“I said, ‘God, Iwill just walk away from
MAN MOVESFROM MURDERER TO MENTOR AFTER RENOUNCING GANG ANDDRUGLIFESTYLE
allthis,’”hesaid. “My sister was still a drug dealer back then. My baby brother wasstilladrug dealer. Most of my family were stilldrug dealers andgangsters. But Itoldmyfriends, families, I’m done with thislife. That’s how Iput myself into rehab.”
FINDINGRLABS
In 2015, De Bruin came acrossRLabs, ayouthdevelopmentprogramme in Westridge.
“I used tobeinand outofMitchells Plain, but for thewrong reasons,”hesaid. “Butnever did IknowthatMitchells Plain would playabig role in my life.”
AtRLabs he completed courses in project management, social innovation, enterprise, occupational health andsafety, andcomputer basics. It was the firsttime he hadused alaptop andDeBruin saidhe found it dauntinguntil oneofthe teachers encouraged him
“Hesaidthat there is nothing in thislife that Icannotface thatisinfront of me, becauseIhave already overcome so many things. Everytime when I’m in frontofa laptoporcomputer, Ialways thinkabout howhespoke that hope in me.”
During this period he alsoacted in a theatreproduction called Don’t Miss Your Turning Point, writtenbyafellowresident at therehab.
“Never didIknowthatI’m an actor as well,”hesaid.
BIBLECOLLEGE
FromRLabs, De Bruin studied full-time film andtelevision production at Media Village in 2016. That same year he enrolled in Youth With AMission, amissionary school withapresencein180 countries.
Through themission, he earned adegree in Community Development in 2023. The organisation alsogave him his first experience on aplane when he flew to Ugandain2016.
“I never thoughtorimagined that one day Iwould fly in aplane,”hesaid.
Hisrelationship with the Bible also changed. He describeshis use of the Bible in prison as “abusive”explaining that inmates tore out the pagestouse as toilet paper, cigarette rollingpapers and baggies for drugs
“Today God haschosenmetowork with theGideons,” he said,referring to the Bible ministry that distributes scriptures in schools.
De Bruin nowdoescommunity development work in schools,juvenile detention centres, andonthe streets.
At youthdetention centres, he plays soccer againstyoung inmates and speaks to them about life after prison. He works with recently released gang members, teaches childrentoread and write, and speakstoparentsabout the importance of stayinginvolvedintheirchildren’slives.
“If you’re theparent,you’ve got to do much more than what we do,” he said. “Becauseifthesekids are going to fail, they’renot going to fail just us, they’re
going to fail you too.”
De Bruin also released arap mixtape called Chasing Destiny,available on YouTube and is writing several books. His story also features in Gang Entry and Exit in Cape Town: Getting Beyond the Streets in Africa’s Deadliest City
AFAMILYSTILLINTHESHADOWS
Of his six siblings, most died in the shadow of drugs and gangsterism.
His eldest brother ran drugs between the Northern Cape and the Western Cape together with their sister.De Bruin described the two as operating like a“family mafia.” He was killed in amotorcycle accident while their eldest sister burned to death.
His youngest brother, he says, is still on the streets, after having served time for murder and surviving agang hit.
De Bruin says he has tried to help his brother but he walked out or rehab.
“I just hope and pray and believe he finds recovery,”DeBruin said.
Aray of hope in his family is hisaunt, who used to deal drugs but “left that life behind” but the biggest turnaround was in De Bruin’srelationship with hisfather, who also found recovery.
“My father died aprayer warrior,” De Bruin said. “He did change his life.”
IMPORTANT NOTICE
FORM 3A -NOTICE OF APPLICATIONSFOR LIQUOR LICENCES IN TERMSOFSECTION 37(1) OF THEWESTERNCAPELIQUORACT,2008 –[REG. 10(1)]
Notice is hereby giventhatthe following applications forliquorlicenceshavebeenlodgedwiththe WesternCapeLiquorAuthority (the Authority)and with the designated liquorofficers at theindicated SouthAfrican PoliceService offices. Theapplicationsconcerned may, up to andincluding the 28thday from the date of publicationofthe application, upon requestand free of charge,beinspected by anyperson, at the officesofthe Authority or the designatedliquorofficer listedhereunder. Copies of an applicationcan be obtained from theAuthority afterpayment of theprescribedfee. Objections andrepresentationsmustbelodged in writingwiththe Authorityand thedesignatedliquorofficerinaccordancewithsection 39 of theAct
VORM 3A -KENNISGEWINGVAN AANSOEKE OM DRANKLISENSIES INGEVOLGEARTIKEL 37(1)
VANDIE WES-KAAPSE DRANKWET,2008 –[REG. 10(1)]
Hiermeewordkennisgegee datdie volgende aansoekeomdranklisensies ingedien is by dieWes-Kaapse Drankowerheid(dieOwerheid) en]bydie aangewese drankbeamptesbydie aangeduideSuid-Afrikaanse Polisiedienskantore.Die betrokke aansoekekan,tot en metdie 28ste dagvanaf diedatum vanpublikasie van dieaansoek,opversoek en gratis deur enigepersoon besigtig word by diekantore vandie Owerheid of dieaangewese drankbeampte hierondergelys.Afskrifte van’naansoek kanbydie Owerheid verkry word na betalingvan dievoorgeskrewefooi.Besware en vertoë moet ooreenkomstigartikel 39 vandie Wetskriftelikby dieOwerheidendie aangewese drankbeampte ingedien word
