TygerBurger | Mitchells Plain | E-Edition | 25 March 2026

Menkilledi

le in Spanjetesloop word bespreekbydie byeenkoms vandie Durbanville-poësiekringdeur Coenraad Walters.Die byeenkoms beginom10:00indie Durbanville-biblioteeksaal. Besoekers is welkom teen R50 perpersoon. Ligte verversingssal geniet word.Kontak Lesley vander Vyverby083 4604571ofteachervdv@ gmail.com met navreofverskonings.

SATURDAY11APRIL

.GracePresbyterianChurch willbehosting aCommunityMarketfrom08:30to14:00 at the church on thecorner of Camoens and BurrowStreet,Monte Vista. Bring your familyand friends forawonderful morning out andenjoy outsidevendors, plenty of food and drinks,a teagarden, alunch braaitobeenjoyed from 12:00 to 14:00. Formoreinformation contact Jeannie on 083305 0424 .TheLoveofChristMarket will take placefrom 09:00 to 17:00 at CrosswayChurch, 51 Goedemoed Road,Goedemoed,Durbanville. Themarket willhave crafts,gifts and refreshments, aprayerroom, support forMES andfoodhampers to helpthe needy,alsothe promotion of Kids Kingdom. Card payment only. Contact Roxanne on 060498 6421 formoreinformation.

Muslim marriageofficers gain equal recognition in reform

Muslim marriage officers no longer need to reapply for certification every five years.

Thenew directive from Home Affairs MinisterDrLeon Schreiber means Muslim religiousleaders certified as marriage officers will nowberecognised on the same basis as other faithcommunities, whichare certified for an unlimited period.

Thechange brings the officers in line with other religious groups under the Marriage Act 25 of 1961, removing what theministry called an “administratively burdensome” renewalprocess.

“For many years, Muslim marriage officers were subject to arenewal requirement that didnot apply to other religious groups. The five-year limitation was originally introduced as atemporary measure, while new marriage legislation was being developed,” the ministry saidin arelease last week.

Theminister’sdecision follows discussions with relevant stakeholders who raised the issue with him. This reform comes after the department introduced marriage certificates that recognised Muslim marriages for the first time in 2024.

Citycancels R1.2bntender

LAURENO’CONNOR-MAY

LAUREN.OCONNOR-MAY@NOVUSMEDIA.CO.ZA

Several local infrastructure projects have been halted following the cancellation of amajorurban-mobilitycontract worthR1,2 billion amid allegationsofattempted bribery.

Speakingatthe Subcouncil meeting on Monday 16 March, chair Elton Jansen said the contractor had allegedly attempted to bribe the City Manager to stop aninternal investigationinto tender collusion.

“I want to first congratulate and acknowledge theCityManager’s involvement in thissuccessful bust because we do not toleratecorruption. However, it comes withsome inconvenience.

“All those projects within the entirecity, notjust Subcouncil 17, havecome to an abrupt standstill.”

The contract cancellation hasleft Expanded Public Works Programme (EPWP) workers without employment, as their contracts stipulate “no work, no pay”.

“I’m of the opinion that yes, we have successfully stopped an allegedly corrupt businessman, but now our EPWP workers aresuffering as aresult,” Jansen said.

Thechair said he had written to senior officials requesting that EPWP workers be included in new contracts once replacement contractors are appointed, but was not satisfied withthe response received.

Projects affected include the Mitchells

BRIBERY ALLEGATION HALTS DOZENS OF CITY CONTRACTS

Plain non-motorised transport developmentinLentegeur andvarious ward allocation projects.

LONGSERVICERECOGNITION

The meeting also recognised councillors Daniel Christians andGoawa Timm for “enduring” 20 years of public serviceon6 March.

“You havededicated your lives, 20 years of your life. It’s alot,it’sa lifetime to give to your community,”Jansen toldthe councillors

He madespecial reference to Christians’ decades of advocacy for developmenton the False Bay coastline, whichisfinally bearing fruit.”CouncillorChristians, in particular, has been the voice in Mitchells Plain, amongother voices, of course, for the FalseBay coastline.”

YOUTHOPPORTUNITIES

Jansen also encouraged youth to take advantage of theyouth incubatorat RLabsand the Mitchells PlainStarSearch competition.

Referencing hisown youth, Jansensaid that he too had taken part in astarsearch competition in Mitchells Plainmany years ago.

“That competitiono as an artist. It’s adoor encourage young pe

FROMPAGE1

“It’s Wosa— awhole of society approach.Everyone is on board, especially within theforum, we have avariety of different departmental cohesion happening at thepresent moment.”

The plan will establishsafe zones in five identified crime hotspots withing the suburbs of Montrose Park, Beacon Valley, Hyde Park,Rocklands, andStrandfontein.

Oakes said the areas were selected based on crime analysis data.

“We’veidentified what the issues are within thecommunities through community engagements, and now we wanttoensure thatwehave awhole approach to start addressing thesesocioeconomic issues,” Oakes said.

Thefunded programmes include holiday programmes for youth, skills development initiatives, job placements, businessdevelopment, andpolice station improvements.

Oakes emphasised that the initiative emergedfrom community safety structures and represents acommunityledproject rather than atop-down government intervention.

The fundingwill alsosupport youth social media influencer programmes, family wellness hubs, andstreet coach programmes, with partnerships being finalised with organisations including Cape BPO andvarious skills training centres.

Theforum, now registered as anonprofit organisation, has received formal endorsement from the provincial government and reported to stakeholders on 3March

The initiative coincides with Mitchell’s Plain’s 50th anniversary celebrations this year, with organisers hoping to launch theholiday programmes as part of the commemorations.

with community representatives heading violence prevention, secure communities, and economic opportunities programmes.

Acommunity workshop is planned for the coming weeks to provide further details about implementation timelines and community involvement opportunities.

SUPPORTFROMSUBCOUNCIL

Oakessaid that she was presenting to the meeting to request subcouncil’s support for the plan.

“The reason we are here today is to reach out to the councillors ultimately,” she said. “We are reaching out because we want to ensure that whatever is put forward is awhole of Mitchells Plain approach and not excluding anyone.”

Chair, Elton Jansen, replied saying that in 2024 he had been part of agang dialogue in the council chambersin Lentegeur and that elements of that discussion had been included in the provincial plan.

“In principle we support every effort to combat crime. Ithink it’simportant that we understand that we cannot choose one over the other. No one organisation holds that autonomy or that exclusivity. We are the crime fighters. And so, in principle, support your efforts,”hesaid.

Concerns around how spending would be monitored were also raised.

Westridge and Portlandcouncillor, Ashley Potts,said: “They’re always saying that you should hold the politicians accountable and now on the other side of the coin, we would like to say money has been made available, so we need to hold them accountable and make thiscommunication available to the community as well.”

Jansen agreed, adding: “Whenever there’smoney, it’s always an issue. But

Firestillsmouldersaftertwoweeks

LAURENO’CONNOR-MAY LAUREN.OCONNOR-MAY@NOVUSMEDIA.CO.ZA

The massive compostfire in Cape Town’s Philippi area continues to burnmore than two weeks, with smoke drifting as far as Goodwoodand Kuils River, which more 20km away, and affecting residents across the city

Thefire at Sonnestraal Farmon Olieboom Road was first reportedat approximately 11:40onSaturday, 7 March, according to the City of Cape Town. Despiteround-the-clock firefighting efforts, the blaze remains active with no definitivetimeline for whenitwillbefully extinguished.

SMOKEREACHESDISTANTSUBURBS

City councillor Elton Jansen, inwhose wardthe fire is situated, told asubcouncil meeting on Monday 16 March thatthere have been reports of smokefrom suburbs all overthe city.

According to media releasebythe City on Wednesday 18 March, the compost heap is roughly the size of two rugbyfieldsand stands three to four metres high.

“The incident lasted for more than four days, and they are still busywithit,” Jansen said during the meeting, referring to the original blaze whichhad pillarsof

HELICOPTERSHAVEMADE 88 WATER DUMPS ON THE HEAP THATIS THE SIZE OF TWO RUGBYFIELDS

smoke rising into thesky, visible across largeportionsofthe city.

“The smoke carried as far as Goodwood,” Jansenadded.

Mayco Memberfor Safety andSecurity, JPSmith, said in avideo on social media that the heap hasproved challengingto extinguishdue to temperatures exceeding 500°C at its core.

Fire andrescue teams have maintained a 24-hour presenceatthe site sincethe fire began. Firefighting efforts have included the deploymentofmore thanfourfire engines,two helicopters thathave made 88 water drops, and crews rotating every 12 hours.

“We hadtwo choppers in the air. We hadmorethanfourorfive fire engines deployed, and they were working around theclock,”Jansensaid, praising the responseefforts.

The landowner has provided front-end loaders and accesstoadam to ensure constant water supply. The loaders are beingused to remove sections of the heap so firefighters can reachthe fire’s core.

Smith said in hisvideo that the choppers’ waterdrops on the core had helpedtolowerthe temperature to 200°C and hadbeenkey in helping to keep the fire undercontrol.

“Thesourceofthe heatisburied below 6m of mulch,” Smith explained, adding that duetothe scale anddensity of the material, thefire sourcewas “largely inaccessible”.

Dousingthe fire completely is proving extremely difficult due water being unable to penetrate deep enoughinto the mound.

“While we have been successful at keepingthe toplayerdamp, as the water sinks lower within the mound, it quickly evaporates due to the heatsource within,” Smith said.

AIRQUALITYCONCERNS

TheCity’s Air Quality Management office is monitoring conditions. While particulate matter levels have decreased since the fire started, residents in affected areas continue to report smoke.

TheCitysays pollution levels remain within acceptable standards, but residents with underlying health conditions are advised to stay indoors when smokeis present and keep windows and doors closed.

Thefire is believed to have started through spontaneous combustion from decomposing organic material. Similar to veld fires, the smokecomes from plant-based material and is unlikely to contain harmful man-made chemicals. Residentscan check real-time air quality information through the SouthAfrican Air Quality Information System app.

Localpoet appointedas Oxfordlaureate

The University of Oxfordhas made history by appointingapoetfrom MitchellsPlaintoa groundbreaking new position, markingthe first time any business school globally has created the role of Poet Laureate.

Soupkitchen struggleswithfunds

LAURENO’CONNOR-MAY

LAUREN.OCONNOR-MAY@NOVUSMEDIA.CO.ZA

ATafelsig woman who started asoup kitchen three years ago is battling to securefunding to expand her community feeding programme.

Sharna Bernhardt runs Sharna’s HelpingHands, anonprofit organisation that feeds seniors and children every Thursdayfrom donations andher own pocket.

Bernhardtstarted theinitiative with friends.

“We can’t just receive all the time, we must give back,” said Bernhardt.

REGISTEREDSTATUS

As the outreach grew, Bernhardt realised that she needed registration. “Then I decided to open the NPO, register my NPO to make it legal. And you know, so that people can see that it’s areal thing, not afake thing,”she said.

But Bernhardtsays funding remains amajor challenge.

“My customers at the pharmacy where Iwork will give me potatoes to make ameal. But it’s not enough to make three to four pots of soup. We can only do one to two pots,” she said.

Bernhardtapplied to the Department of Social

Development for fundingbut was toldthey weretoo late for the yearly allocation, so she plans to apply againinApril.

She hasalsoapproached various businesses forsponsorship but saysshe consistently receives negative responses.

EXPANDINGSERVICES

Beyond the weekly soup kitchen, Sharna’sHelping Hands runs stationery drives and Christmas parties. Recently, Bernhardt gave out tops to local children who used them to start a soccer team.

In February, she organised a fun dayfor elderly residents, takingthem out to restaurants

“Wecan’tjustreceive allthetime,wemust giveback.”

—Sharna Bernhardt

when sponsorship was available.

“I try to help people thatdon’t even getout of their homes, they’realways inside,” she said. The soup kitchentoo is not stationary but moves to various Mitchells Plainsuburbs where thereisa need.

. Anyone interested in supporting Sharna’s Helping Handscan contact theorganisationon073 5305472.

Read to Rise extends road show

Read to Rise hasextended it's Cape Flats BookFestivalRoadshow.

Thelast extended event willbea "Voices of Courage" paneldiscussion at at RocklandsLibrary on Monday, 30 March 2026

Thefreesession, running from 11:00 to 12:00,willsee threeCape Town authors sharetheir stories of pain andhealing andpublishing Attendees willhavethe opportunity to meet BonitaEngelbrecht,Michelle Ohlsson, andHaroldene Tshienda,who willdiscuss their journeys through"heart-work" forhealing and self-discovery.

Entryisfree.

Theevent promises to explorethemes of bravery, personaltriumph, andthe healing powerofstorytelling Authors willbeavailabletodiscuss their published worksand share insights intotheir writingprocesses. Theevent is supported by theNational Arts Council andthe Department of Sport,Arts&Culture as part of the PresidentialEmployment Stimulus programme . More informationabout the festival canbefound at www capeflatsbookfestival.co.za or by following their social media accounts @CapeFlatsBookFestival on Facebook and@CapeFlatsBFon Twitterand Instagram.

Dreamradiostationgoeslive

ALAURENO’CONNOR-MAY LAUREN.OCONNOR-MAY@NOVUSMEDIA.CO.ZA

Mitchells Plain resident is turning his three-decade dream into reality withthe official launch of what he says is the area’s first online radio station.

James Tempers, who broadcastsunder the stage name Jay-Tee, registered Community Impact Radio (CIR) on29 July 2022 and has been broadcasting from Portland for the last few years. “This is arealisation of adream of nearly threedecades. I’vealways loved radio,” saidTempers, who grew up in Surrey Estate. “I started gravitating

towards radioback in the ‘60s.”

Withthe slogan,“Where TheHeart Of Cape Town Lives”, CIR operates online without aterrestrial frequency, makingit accessible to anyonewith internetaccess.

“It is the only onlineradio stationin Mitchells Plaincurrently,” Tempers said.

“The need has arisen andithas been identified.”

The station focuses on community issues withemphasis on safety, business development, andsupporting youth, unemployed and vulnerable community members.Programmingfeatures local Cape Flatsartistsincluding Emile Jansen of Black Noise fame.

BROADCAST AFICIONADO LAUNCHES ONLINE STATION FROM PORTLAND

TALKANDMUSIC

Tempers works with three presenters, including Cecelia Less, known as Lady C, whom he describes as “the top presenter in all onlineradio stations”.

The stationbroadcastslive segments throughoutthe week, with automated music playing70% of the time when not live

When live, the programming splitsto 70% talk and30% music

Tempers says he alsoplays music from mostly local musicians and the station aims to createaplatform forlocal artists, over and above discussing community issues

TIMINGWITHMILESTONEYEAR

The station’s official launch took place on Friday 20 Marchtocoincide with Mitchells Plain’s50th anniversary celebrations and World Storytelling Day, whichcarriesthe theme“light in the dark” this year.

The radio stationisregistered in the International Trademarks Office with avision “to derive national resilience through informed communities, shared purpose, and powerful communication”, accordingtospeakers at the launch event

The mission statement focuses on empowering and connecting communities through informative programming, engaging interviews andlocal news

to foster asense of belonging and selfsupport

Guest speaker Dr Alicia English, who runs the Olive Exchange, reminded Tempers of the auspiciousness of the timing of the launch.

She pointed out that thisyear it is 60 yearssince the 16 June youth massacre, 90 yearssince the historic women’s march to parliament on 9August and the 30th anniversary of the signing of the South African constitution.

“You are launching in the year of milestones,” she said.

PROGRAMMINGFOCUS

Thestation’s programming includes informative interviews on local issues and initiatives, news updates covering Mitchells Plainand the broader Cape Town area, community stories and events, and music entertainment.

Safetyupdates feature prominently, with partnerships planned with community leaders and grassroots organisations. The station uses the hashtag “the publichas the right to know” and aims to create a safe space for dialogue where everyvoice counts.

STARTUPCHALLENGES

Speaking at the launch, organisers acknowledged the station is in its startup phaseand not yet fully operational, with various teething problems expected as the team works to establish theirfootprint in the broadcasting space.

“Radio has never been for the broadcaster or the presenter. It’salways about the people,” Tempers said, adding that he is seeking investment to grow the vision.

. To listen to CIR,visit: www.ciradio.co.za

THINKING OUTLOUD

Kindness is not just virtue,it’s aresponsibility

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.

ITTAKESLITTLE EFFORTTO SPEAKGENTLY, TOLISTENFULLY

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

aimed at boosting visitor spending,increasingarrivalsand supportingmorethan100 000 jobslinked to the

anew tourism

Airport runs have become aterrifying ordeal

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-

Hou met die geraas

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

Single moms’suffering

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

Praisesfor JG Meiring High School

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

Kindersonder te veel druk

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

and FinanceAgencysession from 5

BlueDowns Festivalcomes toMitchellsPlain

The popular Blue Downs Family Festival is set to return with an expanded programmefor thisyear, promisingthe biggestevent yet for CapeTown families

The festival will take placeon24 September at Westridge Gardens, running from 10:00 to 11:00.

LOCALTALENTTAKESCENTRESTAGE

Thisyear’s line-up features toplocal artistsincluding Homeboys and Team River, alongside Mitchells Plain’s own Ricky Vannie Frontline and Street Kings.

Plea fornomoreEasterbunnies

Rabbits are alifelongcommitment, not aseasonal gift —don’t buy your child a bunny for Easter, warns alocal bunny loverand fostercarerfrom Durbanville aftermultiple rabbits were deliberately shot with apellet guninthe Durbanville cemeteryinthe past two weeks.

The problemofdomestic rabbitsbeing abandoned in parksinDurbanville and theDurbanville cemetery has escalated far beyond neglect into intentional cruelty with therabbitssuffering horrific injuries to theirlegs, stomachsand hindquarters, says 25-year-old Kaylin-Lee Eveleigh.

ENDUREIMMENSEPAIN

“Thisisnot aquickorhumane death. These animals endure immense pain, often for hours or days, before they are found. In severalcases, the injuries have been so severe thatthe only humane option has been euthanasia.

“Our veterinarianshave removed pellets from injured rabbits, confirming thenature of these attacks, and we are currently tryingtopursue acriminal case.

“What makes thiseven more alarming is that theseincidents are taking place near well-known primary schools in the area, raising serious concerns not only about animal cruelty but also about the safety and behaviour being 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 for education, awareness, and accountability to protect thesevulnerable animals from further suffering,”according to Eveleigh.

DOMESTICRABBITSBEINGABANDONED

For several years now, Durbanville has been facing agrowing and heartbreaking issue with domestic rabbitsbeing abandoned in open fields and designated areas.

“This is largely driven by impulse purchases especially around Easter where rabbitsare bought as gifts, often for children.

“Unfortunately, once the novelty wears off, animal rescues across SouthAfrica often see an increase in surrendered rabbitsbecause families were unawareof the level of care theseanimals require,” she warns.

LINE-UP FEATURES PLETHORAOF LOCALTALENT

AWARDSANDOPPORTUNITIES

The Star Struck Music Awards, hosted at thefestival, are nowaccepting entries. The awards will recognise artists, performers, and communityleaders, with voting alreadyunder way. Entriescloseatthe end of April. The festival alsoprovidesvarious

“The Easter Bunny tradition dates back many years as asymbol of spring and new life. However, the trend of giving real rabbitsasEaster gifts has grown more recently, often influenced by commercialisation and social media,” she says.

“Rabbitscan live for 8–12 yearsand need dedicated care. If thisbook helps even one family understand what caring for a bunny really means, then it’s worth it,” she says.

. Contact Kaylin at 072554 2325 with enquiries.

Vermaak // Entertainment

Komlagsaamby Suidoosterfees

Die Suidoosterfees word vanjaar van29 April tot3Mei aangebied.Die feestema is "Tuiste" en die komedie-vertoningsgaan feesgangers heerlik tuislaat voel.

TygerBurger is ’n trotsemediavennoot vandie fees en nooi lesers uit om vir ’n rukkie wegtebreek van diewêreldseprobleme en hulle aan die terapie van lagoor te gee.

Die fees brei vanjaarverder uit as die Kunstekaap-teaterkompleks. Komedie-vertoningssal in die POP24Studio in die Media24-gebou, asook indie Kaapstad-Burgersentrumaangebied word

Die Cape Town Comedy Club bring ’n reeks vertoningsnadie Suidoosterfees –’nvrolike viering vanskerpskerts-komedieaskultuur, kuns en suiwer plesier

REEKS

Die reeksCTCC@SOF bestaan uitdrie aandvertonings.

Op WerkersdagisJared Pillaydie aanbiedervan CTCC @SOF 1,met KeenanCerf,CandaceFortune en Robin Dunlop CTCC @SOF 2 volg op Saterdag 2Mei metMel Jones, Jam Jam, Wesley Paulse en Nathan Levinrad. Die reekssluit op Sondag3 Mei af met CTCC @SOF 3,waarin Phil de Lange, Lindy Johnson, Khanyisile NgwenyaenNishen Pathet dielagspiere kielie

In Jaryd PillayLive bring die gewildekomediant sy kenmerkende waarnemingsenstories na dieverhoog. Kurt Schoonraad: FunnySideUp neem gehore op ’n skreeusnaakse reis deur die eienaardighede vandie moderne lewe. Dave Levinsohn vier26 jaar in die bedryf in Look What YouMade Me Do metvan sy briljantstekomieseoomblikke.

Ouma en die ou koeie bring Margit-Meyer Rödenbeck en Coenraad Rall op die verhoog byeen.Hierdie nostalgiese maarskreeusnaakse produksie speel

PRODUKSIES OOK NOUBY

POP24 AANGEBIED

Lindy Johnson

metherinneringeenhalwe waarhede.’nVarsstem op die komedietoneel is Arlene Petersen in Plain Jane,waarsyalledaagseflatersmet humortakel. SmileFMisvanjaardie Suidoosterfees se amptelike radiostasie.Komedie word ondersteun deur Biggi Popcorn, VIA, TygerBurger, People’sPost en City Vision.Die hoofborge vandie Suidoosterfees is die Wes-Kaapse regering en dieprovinsie se Departement vanKultuursakeenSport, Stad Kaapstad, Netwerk24,Die Burger,NATi, kykNET,die ATKV en Kunstekaap . Besoeksuidoosterfees.com virmeer besonderhede en dievolledigefeesprogram. Kaartjies is beskikbaar by Webtickets.

RockyHorror Showonstage again

Thecultmusical TheRockyHorror Show is coming to Theatreonthe BayinCampsBay from 7April to 31 May. Presented by Pieter ToerienProductionsin association with the Luitingh AlexanderMusical TheatreAcademy(LAMTA),the production promises to deliver the wildenergy and rock anthems that have made this showa global phenomenon forover 50 years.

Director Steven Steadreturnswithhis staging of RichardO’Brien’smusical, which previouslyplayed in Durban.The production features an experienced South African cast ledbyCraig Urbani(We Will Rock You, My Fair Lady)asDrFrank-N-Furter, with LéaBlerk (Joseph, Dear Evan Hansen) as Janetand Robert Everson (Noises Off)asBrad.

Thesupporting cast includes Schoemann Smit as Riff,Jasmine Minter as Magenta, Anna Olivier as Columbia, Natasha Sutherland as the Narrator, Micah Stokajovic as Rocky, and ZakHendrikzas Eddie/Dr Scott.

FRESHENERGY

Richard O’Brien’s1973musicalfollows sweetheartsBradand Janet as they encounterthe mysterious Dr Frank-N-Furter andhis eccentric household afterseeking shelterduringastorm Thestory unfoldsasa journey of transformation andself-discovery, poweredbymemorablesongs including“Time Warp,” “Sweet Transvestite,” and “Hot Patootie”. Stead’sproduction bringsfresh energy to the belovedclassic whilehonouring its rebellious spirit Knownfor its devotedfanbase andinteractive audience participation, TheRocky Horror Show continues to attractboth long-timefansand curious newcomers drawntoits celebration of individuality andtheatricalspectacle

Theproductionisrated PG16

Ticketsstart from R200. . Book at Webtickets or thetheatre’s boxoffice on 021438 3300

ChoirFest hosts‘Passion

ChoralFest’ at Hugo Lambrechts

ChoirFest Productionsismarking itsfifthanniversary with an ambitious choralcelebration that promises to captivate localmusicloversthisEasterseason.

Theorganisation willpresent Passion ChoralFest 2026 on Sunday 12 April at 16:00inthe Hugo LambrechtsAuditorium in Parow.

Theunique event bringstogetherfive localchoirs andmusicalduo Babette &Olgatotellthe storyof Christ's Passion throughsong.

Theimmersive choral experiencewilltakeaudiences throughthe biblical narrative from humanity's cryfor deliverancetothe triumph of theresurrection.

Organisers promise acompelling blend of classical, contemporary, andtraditionalAfricanchoral works, enhancedbystrikingvisualartwork and

performances in multiplelanguages. This concert weaves together diversemusical styles intoone powerful narrative. Five accomplished choirs willgrace thestage: Cape Town Camerataunder Leon Starker's direction, TygerbergCityChoir ledbyPeter Roux,Vivox Voices conducted by MariaViviers, DF Akademie Kamerkoor: DF Dynamics with Jade Paige, and Laerskool Janvan RiebeeckSenior Koor,alsounder Leon Starker.

Theeveningwillbeenhanced by complimentary beveragesincluded with each ticket,pluscoffee and refreshments provided by KruisKoffie. . Ticketsfor theconcert areavailable at www choirfest.co.za

. Oumaendie ou koeie metMargit Meyer-Rödenbeck en Coenraad Rall is op Woensdag 25 en Donderdag 26 Maart om 20:30byDie Boeropdie planke. Geen kinderso.13. Bespreekbywww.dieboer.com

. Jonathan Roxmouth's Keychange runs at Theatre on the Baynow until 28 March. Eveningsat20:00 and Saturdaysalsoat15:00.Tickets at Webtickets.

. Cape Town City Balletpresents Dracula at Artscape thisweekuntil Sunday29March. Ticketsare available at Webticketsorthe Artscape BoxOffice on 021421 7695

. People Power: Zolani Mahola featuring TheFeminine Force is at TheHomecomingCentre on Thursday 26 March at 19:00. TicketsfromR300atQuicket

. Richard Pryor's Blues Reunion with Boulevard Blues and Friends takesplace on Saturday28March from 19:00atHillcrest Restaurant,Durbanville in the coveredbeergarden. Tickets(R180) and more informationonQuicket

. Lize Beekman bring haar vertoning In antwoord op Saterdag 28 Maart om 20:30enSondag 29 Maart om 14:00naDie Boer-teaterrestaurant.Kaartjies kos R250. Bespreekbywww.dieboer.com of by 021979 1911.

. Die30steKKNK vind van28Maart tot4April in Oudtshoorn plaas. Besoekkknk.co.zavir die volledigeprogram.Kry kaartjiesbyWebticketsofdie KKNK-kantoor.

. Cape Town PhilharmonicOrchestra andRob van Vuuren: Peterand the Wolf is at the Kirstenbosch Summer ConcertonSunday29March at 17:30.Tickets areR360orR255(age6-21).Book at Webtickets.

. Wayne McKay bring sy vertoning AfriSnaaks van Woensdag 1tot Saterdag 4April na dieMasam-

be-teaterbydie Baxter-teaterkompleks.Dievertoning is in AfrikaansenEngelsmet 'n ouderdomsbeperking van18. Kaartjies kosR150 by Webtickets. . Fatman tree op Woensdag8 April om 20:30byHeroes Brackenfellop. Deuremaak18:00 oop. Kaartjies kosR140tot R180 by www.heroeslive.net

. Albert Frost en Gerald Clark tree op Donderdag 9April om 20:30byDie Boer-teaterrestaurant op Kaartjies kosR230.Bespreek by www.dieboer.com of by 021979 1911.

. Autumn Symphoniesatthe City Hall withBritish conductor NicholasChalmers is on Thursday9April at 19:30.TicketsfromR190 at Webtickets.

. Krismisvan MapJacobs is van9tot 24 April in die Kunstekaap-teater te sien. Diedrama speel af ná die gedwongeverskuiwingsuit Kaapstad na dieKaapse Vlakte.Kaartjies kosR80 by Webtickets.

. Jay komtreeopVrydag10April om 20:00 by Kapstadt Brauhaus Durbanville op.Deure maak 18:00 oop. Kaartjies is beskikbaarbyQuicket

. In Harmonywiththe Tygerberg Children'sChoir is on Sunday 12 April at 15:00 at the Cape Town City Hall. With severalguest schoolchoirs. TicketsfromR120to R140 at Webtickets.

. ConSpirito PhilharmoniccelebratesMozart's270th birthanniversarywithan All-Mozart Concert on Saturday18April at 19:30 at the DutchReformed Church Uitsig, Ridgeworth. TicketscostR220atWebtickets. . Cape WelshChoir presents Whywesing —Generations in harmony,a concert collaborationwithlearners from CurroCenturyCity, DF Academy, Milnerton High School and St Cyprian's on Sunday 19 April at 15:00 in the Hugo Lambrechts Auditorium in Parow. TicketscostR160 at Quicket

Carnivalsightsdazzleanddelight

KAYLYNNEBANTOM

KAYLYNNE.BANTOM@NOVUSMEDIA.CO.ZA

The spirit of unitytookover Cape Townasthe 16th CapeTown Carnival turned Human Rights Day into avibrant showcase of localtalent andcultural pride.

Music, danceand dazzling displaysfilled the Green PointFan Walk onSaturday 21 March as thousands flocked to the event to see the spectacle.

Tracey Carter, carnival performance director, said over 1200 performerstook part in thefestivities.

“Every year we say not again. But then we do it. We do this for CapeTown. When they come outtosee the performers, it feels good. We had some challenges with the wind, but it all came together beautifully.”

With this year’s theme of “Follow your heART”, the event featured the artistic energy of 12 “Carnival Champions” from the city’s creative community.

This included singer Zolani Mahola who performed on the Uvuyo float, a celebration of joy,cultureand the power of voice to unite anation.

Artist Anslin Gysman and actress Natasha van derMerwe wowed the crowd

UNITY,TALENTAND

CULTURAL PRIDEAT16TH CAPE TOWN CARNIVAL

with classic local songs from the Trap vir Trapfloat.

ActivistNyaniso Tutu-Burris featured on the Amandla float atribute to South Africa.While media personality Dylan Majavie wowed thecrowd on the float about transformation, Morph.

Providing yet another highnotewas

Cape Town legend DJ Ready Dand graffiti artist RizahPotgieter on the BPM: Beats | Paint |Move float

Blending tradition with innovation,a new addition this yearwas the procession of modernised cars, adding anew highlight for thecrowd.

JayDouwes, CarnivalChief Executive Officer, said: “Wecalledthem our Champions because they have voluntarily andproudly been part of the process of telling theirstories andinspiring carnival participantstofollow their dreams. Their excitement to be part of the carnivalhas been inspiring.”

ProfRachelJafta, Chair of the Cape Town Carnival Trust, said the performers puttheir “hearts, souland bodies”into bringing this spectacle to life.

“We areaboutcommunity, human connection, joy andcreating something magnificent… we feel so honouredtobe able tobring this event to the heart of Cape Town every year.”

JP Smith, Mayco member for safetyand security, said the carnivalwas one of over 30 events took place acrossthe city this pastweekend.

“This is one of the mostdiverse and inclusive events in Cape Town. Alot of planning and logistics goesinto it.Thank youto the organisers, andspecial thank youto the fireman andlaw enforcement officers who has been going to the gym all yeartobe part of the eye candy.”

Lookatsuburb’s‘DNA’beforebuying

Choosing the right suburb is more important than the perfect house whenitcomes to long-termsatisfactionand investment success, according to aCape Town property expert.

Arnold Maritz, co-principalofLew Geffen Sotheby’s International Realty in the southernsuburbs, says buyersshould focus on understanding acommunity’s character —what he calls its “suburb DNA” —before making apurchase.

SOCIALFABRIC

“A home is alifestyle decisionfirst and a financialone second,” says Maritz. “You can renovateahouse, butyou cannot change the fundamental rhythm and social fabricofyour suburb.”

His advice comes as international research shows communitycharacter increasingly drives buyer demand

A2023 study by the UK’s Royal Institution of Chartered Surveyors found that community cohesion and suburb character often outweigh purely physical property attributes.

READINGTHESIGNS

Maritz recommends moving beyond online listings to experience communities firsthand.

His strategies include visiting at different times to observestreet activity, garden conditions, and the balancebetween privacy and openness.

“Statistics tell one story; thesidewalk tellsanother,” he notes.

LOCALCAFÈS

Local cafés serve as valuable indicators of community health, accordingtoMaritz.

“Insuburbslike Claremont, or Johannesburg’s Parkhurst, localcafésact

EXPERTWARNS THAT YOUCAN’T CHANGE A COMMUNITY’SCHARACTER ORSOCIALFABRIC

as modern town squares,”heobserves.

“A thriving independent café sceneoften signals an engaged, walkable community withstrong local pride andeconomic resilience.”

He also suggests checking community socialmedia groups and speaking with locals —baristas, dogwalkers, and longtimeresidents —for unfiltered insights aboutneighbourhood changesand initiatives.

EVENINGASSESSMENTCRUCIAL

Maritzemphasises the importance of visiting potentialareas after dark

“A suburb’s personality can shift after dark,”hecautions.

“Assessthe ambience in the evening. Thisdirectly impacts perceptions of safety andlifestyle compatibility.”

The property expert concludes that successful purchases combine intuitive feeling with research into municipal plans, infrastructure projects, and property trends

“Before asking ‘Can Iafford this house?’, the essential questionis, ‘Can Isee myself belonging here?’,” Maritz states.

“Understanding the suburb DNA ensures your investmentsupports notjust your financialfuture,but your daily wellbeing.”

ORDER

IN THE HIGH COURT OF SOUTH AFRICA, WESTERN CAPE LOCAL DIVISION,CAPETOWN

Beforethe Honourable Mr JusticeWillie, Cape Townon the20thofFebruary 2026. Case No: 2026-018464. In thematter between: NTUMISENGMANATHA MPITSA,APPLICANT and MAPULENG CHALI, FIRST RESPONDENT, ISHMAILSTAMPA, SECOND RESPONDENT, MA-AMOS STAMPA, THIRD RESPONDENT, MASTER OF THE HIGH COURT, CAPE TOWN, FOURTH RESPONDENT, DEEDSREGISTRAR, CAPE TOWN, FIFTH RESPONDENT, KUILS RIVER SHERIFF,NORTH, SIXTHRESPONDENT.

HAVINGread thepapers filed on record herein and having heardthe Applicant's Counsel herein: IT IS HEREBY ORDERED: 1. Order for substituted service is hereby granted.

ü Trusted

ü Reach

Page 16 |Woensdag, 25 Maart 2026 Tel 021910 6500 | E-pos sport@tygerburger.co.za| www.tyg

Localrunnerscross TygerRunfinishline

The ever-popularTygerRun, presented by Radio Tygerberg in collaborationwith Durbanville Athletics Club, Top Events, TygerValley Shopping Centre and TygerBurger, took place on Saturday.

More than7200 participants entered to run (or

walk) eitherthe 15km or 6km route. This year’s race beneficiary, theAnimal AntiCruelty League (AACL), received R15000. TygerBurger’s Carina Roux was there with her camera. . Visit www.tygerburger.co.zafor more photos.