TygerBurger | Tableview | E-Edition | 4 February 2026

Woensdag, 4Februarie 2026 |Tel: 021 910 6500 |e-pos: nuus@tygerburger.co.za |Website: www.tygerburger.co.za

JOHN FLANIGAN’SLEGACYLIVESONAFTER TRAGIC SEAKAYAKING ACCIDENT

Localoceanicondies

John Flanigan,abelovedfigure in theBloubergstrand coastalcommunity,passed awayfollowing asea kayaking incident.Known forhis lifelong passion forocean sports anddailysea kayaking routines,he inspired many.His recent historic achievement as the oldest man to completethe Robben Island to Blouberg swim earned him widespreadadmiration. PHOTO:MARZAHN BOTHA

TKAILINDANIELS

KAILIN.DANIELS@NOVUSMEDIA.CO.ZA

he Bloubergstrand community is mourning the loss of JohnFlanigan (80), ahighly respected ocean sportsman, following asea kayaking incident offshoresouth of On-the-Rocks on Saturday morning.

Despite aswift and coordinated rescue response by theNational Sea Rescue Institute (NSRI)and emergency services, Flanigan was tragically declared deceased after extensive resuscitation efforts.

AccordingtoRowan Marais, station commanderofNSRI Melkbosstrand, the rescue operationwas initiated at 07:45 on Saturday 31 January, after eyewitnesses reportedanunmanned sea kayak appearing to be capsized offshore.

“NSRI Melkbosstrand duty crew were activatedfollowingeyewitness reportsof an unmanned sea kayak appearing to be capsized in the vicinity offshore southof On-the-Rocks, Bloubergstrand,” Marais said.

WestCoastcommunity coast watchers assistedwith visual confirmation while NSRI rescue swimmers responded to the scene. TheNSRI rescue craft JetRIB was launched from Small Bay, Bloubergstrand.

GOODSAMARITANSFIRSTONTHESCENE

Upon arrival, rescue crews found a groupofswimmers offshorewiththe sea kayak. Theydirected NSRI personnel to Flanigan’s location, where he was being assistedbyaGood Samaritan on astandup paddle board, supported by additional swimmers.

Flanigan was brought aboard the NSRI rescue craft, where cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR) was immediately initiated. The craft returned to Small Bay, where NSRI medics continued CPR

alongside paramedics.

“Despite extensive CPR efforts, and after all attempts to resuscitate the man were exhausted, he was sadly declared deceased by paramedics,” Marais said. Thepolice attended the scene and an inquest docket has been opened.

AFAMILIARFACEINTHEMORNINGOCEAN ROUTINE

It appears Flanigan was paddling offshore during his regular morning routine when the incident occurred. He had reportedly paddled out to greet a group of regular morning swimmers, a gesture well-known among the local ocean community.

TheNSRI commended the swift actions of the swimmers and the stand-up paddle boarder, whose calm and decisive response helped keep Flanigan supported until rescue crews arrived.

Flanigan was widely admired not only for his ocean skills but also for his resilience. He recently made historyby becoming the oldest man to complete the 7.5 km Robben Island to Blouberg swim, earning national recognition withinSouth Africa’s open-water swimming community. Adecade ago, he was diagnosed with Pulmonary Alveolar Proteinosis(PAP),a rare and life-threatening lung condition. He spent nearly two yearsoncontinuous oxygen and was initially given only months to live.

VRYDAG6FEBRUARIE

. ChrismarVillashou om 18:30 'n verskeidenheidskonsert.Die Othello-boeremusiekorkes tree ondermeerop. Tydens die pousesal koffie, teeen vrugteslaai met roomys te koop wees. Kaartjieskos R70per persoon en kanvoorafbyChrismarVillas gekoop word vanMaandag totVrydagtussen 08:00 en 12:00

SATURDAY7FEBRUARY

. TheCapeTownGem and MineralClubwillbe having itsOpen Dayfrom10:00to14:00 at 14aGoede Hoop Street,Bothasig. Allare welcome, from mineral specimen collectors, to friends, familiesand especially children.Freeentrance. Learnmoreabout the hobby of crystal, gemand mineralspecimencollecting and relatedcraftwork,orbuy itemsfrommember traders. Visit www.ctminsoc.org.zaoremail admin@ctminsoc org.za

. Die jaarlikse DTBS-interskole-atletiekkragmeting (voorheen MTBS) tussen die hoërskoleDF-Akademie Tygerberg, Bellville en Stellebergvindplaas in Groenpunt. Die dagbegin met die uiters gewilde Flashes in die DHLKaapstadStadion, gevolg deur dieatletiek op dieGroenpunt-baan. Kaarties vir die Flashes is beskikbaar by QuicketteenR80 elk.

. Hunters forbargainsatthe Goodwood Bargains Marketatthe Goodwood Sports Club from 09:00to 13:30. Entranceisfreeand parking is availableatthe cornerofAlice Street and MiltonStreet. Visitorsare encouragedtodonate unwanted garments in the on-site donation bin, supportingaworthycause.For moreinformationemail thegoodwoodmarket@gmail. com

WOENSDAG11FEBRUARIE

. Die digbundel diehelfteisjou nievertel deur ThérèseBartman word op die eerste byeenkoms van dieDurbanville-poësiekringvir diejaaropdeurdie digterself bespreek. Diebespreking begin om 10:00in die saal vandie Durbanville-biblioteek.Ligte verversingswordaangebied. Gasteiswelkom teen R50 per persoon.KontakLesleyvan derVyver by 083460 4571 of teachervdv@gmail.comomaan te sluitofgaste saam te bring.

THURSDAY12FEBRUARY

. Durbanville Business is presentinganexclusive evening of networking,dinner and aguided tour of Stadio HigherEducation'sprestigious newDurbanvillecampusfrom18:00.DrStanduPlessis,chief executive officerofStadio Higher Education, will be theguestspeaker.The campusissituated at 35 Akademia AvenueinGroot PhesantekraalEstate. The cost is R150 formembers and R350 fornon-members, dinnerand wine included. Seatsare limited. Confirm attendancebefore8Februarybyemailtoinfo@ durbanvillesakekamer.co.za

SATURDAY 14FEBRUARY

. Love willbeinthe airthisValentine’sDay as MdzanandaAnimalClinic& Shelterhosts itsValentine’s Picnic forPaws- aspecialfundraising eventin support of theanimals of Khayelitsha -from10:00 to 14:00atJoostenbergBistro&Deli. Theevent promises arelaxed and memorablepicnicexperiencefilled with good food, greatcompany,and ameaningful cause. Well-behaved dogs arewelcome to join their owners on theday.Ticketsfor the fundraising event areavailable viaQuicket.Visit www.mdzananda.co.za or email Kellyonfund@mdzananda.co.zafor more information.

. TheTygerbergHills Lions club will have awalk from the GracePresbyterianChurch MonteVista onto Camoens Park, Barrow Street,MonteVista. Come for awalkand showyoursupport forChildhoodCancer This walk is heldcountry wide by variousLions on theday to create awareness.The walk willkickoff at 09:00.Entrancefee is on donationbasis. Agreat morning to showsupport to ouryoung warriors Looking forwardtoseeing everyone,registrationwill happen on themorning. Contact Jeannievan Wulven forany enquiriesorforemoreinformation on 083 3050424

. TheTable View Lions Club is inviting the community to lace up theirwalking shoes and take part in the 5kmBig Walk forYoung Warriorsatthe TableView beachfront.Thewalk is familyfriendly,pramfriendly, and open to leashedpets, making it an idealouting forall ages.Anentrancefee of R50 applies, with all proceedsgoing the Childhood Cancer Foundation South Africa(CHOC). To register,send "choc" to 083 286 0255 by Thursday 12 February.

DONDERDAG19FEBRUARIE

. Die TygerbergTuin- en Blommeklubspring diejaar wegmet RuanEastes se praatjie oorbromeliasen Diana de Vossepraatjie oorPot-et-fleur.Die tema vandie blommekunskompetisie is "Tradisioneel vertikaal". Die klub het 'n propvolprogram metinteressanthedeelkederde Woensdag vandie maand by dieNG kerk ParowWelgelegen(La Provence47, Welgelegen) om 09:30vir 10:00. Teewordvanaf09:30 bedien.Bel Beatrix Lambert-Bestbier by 082873 9864 virmeer inligting.

Februaryfuel pricesdrops

South Africanmotorists arepoised foranother round of relief at the fuel pumpsinFebruary, with current indicators pointing to price reductions for bothpetrol anddiesel when the nextadjustment takes effect this month.

Fuel priceshave already retreated to theirlowest levels in nearly four years followingJanuary’s cuts, andthe latest figuressuggest thatdownward momentum is settocontinueinto February.

PRICESEXPECTEDTOFALLFURTHER

Accordingtounaudited data released by theCentralEnergyFund (CEF)as of Tuesday 27 January, petrol prices are showingover-recoveries that could translate into cutsofaround 66 cents per litre for 95 Unleaded androughly 64 cents perlitre for 93 Unleaded.

Diesel users are alsolikely to benefit, with wholesale prices for500ppm diesel projected to decrease by about60cents perlitre, while 50ppm diesel could fall by as much as 67 centsper litre, according to theCEF.

However, the Department of Mineral Resourcestold TygerBurger on Wednesday 28 February that in terms of the Basic Fuel PriceWorking Rules, official and audited fuelprices are determined and announced exclusively by the department through an official statement.

These announcements are issued on the last Friday of each month or ahead of the first Wednesdayofthe new month.

WHATMOTORISTSCOULDPAYATTHEPUMPS

AccordingtoCEF, the price of 95 Unleaded petrol could drop to approximately R19.26 perlitre at the coast

FROMPAGE1

Followingmultiple unsuccessful procedures, Flanigan underwent a groundbreakingsix-hour lung lavage on ECMO at GrooteSchuurHospital, becoming the first PAP patient at the facility to receive the treatment —a turningpoint thatallowed him to reclaim an active life

FOUNDEROFAGROWINGCOASTALSWIMMING COMMUNITY

What began as asmall WhatsApp group for casualsea swimmersin Bloubergstrandgrew into Topaz Swim Buddies, athriving coastal community of nearly 450 members.The group was founded by Flanigan —also known as CoastalPop —alongside his wife of 58 years,Ann Flanigan.

“We’vebuilt acommunityofocean swimmers, fromcasualdippers to Robben Islandveterans who simplywanted to share their love of ocean swimming,”he previously said. “For me,this isn’tabout breakingrecords.It’sabout resilience, recovery, andmylifelong love of the ocean.”

ANENDURINGOCEANLEGACY

Flanigan’s connectiontothe sea spanned morethan six decades. He surfed waveskis competitively, raced Hobie and Mosquito catamarans, windsurfed, completed more than 500 scuba dives as aPADI Divemaster, andpaddledsurfskis and sea kayaks alongthe South African coastline.

“The ocean hasalways been my sanctuary, my challenge, and my teacher,” he once said.

Johnafter his successfulRobben Island crossing. PHOTO: MARZAHNBOTHA

CURRENT INDICATORS POINT TO FURTHER FUEL PRICE DECREASES

and about R20.09 inland. Inland motorists using 93 Unleaded may see prices settle at around R20.00 per litre.

At present, coastal drivers are paying around R19.92 per litrefor 95 Unleaded, while inland prices sit closer to R20.75 for 95 Unleaded and R20.64 for 93 Unleaded.

JANUARYCUTSSETTHETONE

Earlier this month, the Department of Mineral and Petroleum Resources announced substantial fuel price reductions for January,withpetrol prices dropping by between 62 cents and 66 cents per litre. Diesel saw even steeper decreases, falling by R1.37 per litrefor 500ppm and R1.50 per litre for 50ppm. Those cuts pushed local fuel prices to their lowest point since February2022, offering much-needed relief to households and businesses grappling with high transport costs.

RANDSTRENGTHANDOILPRICESDRIVERELIEF

Theanticipated February decreases are largely being driven by favourable international conditions, the CEF said. Therand has strengthened significantly against the US dollar, trading at its strongest level in four years thisweek, while Brent crude oil prices have remained relatively subdued, hovering around $64 abarrel.

Together, thesefactors have improved fuel price recoveries, paving the way for another month of lower prices.

Teamwo

KAILINDANIELS KAILIN.DANIELS@NOVUSMEDIA.CO.ZA

Aroutine sea rescue offthe Melkbosstrand coastline quickly turned tense when arescue craft capsized last week, throwing akitesurferand two lifeguards intothe water andtriggering aswift, multi-agency response from NSRI Station 18 andCommunity Medics

Theincident occurred while lifeguards were assisting akitesurfer in distress when their craft overturned, pitching all three into the water. Despite the sudden escalation, the lifeguards remained calm and stayed together with thekitesurfer until NSRI crews reached them.

“All parties did exactly whatthey were trained to do,” said Community Medics. “The lifeguardsremained composed, ensured the patient was supported in the water, and this made asignificant difference to theoutcome.”

NSRI rescue crews brought the group safely back to shore, where Community Medics assessed them on arrival. One patient sustainedminor injuries and was transported to anearbyhospital for furtherevaluation. No serious injuries were reported.

Community Medics commended the coordinated response between lifeguards, NSRI volunteers and medical teams, noting that clear communication and teamwork were key in ensuring asafe and successful rescue

“The outcomehighlights the importance of preparedness and cooperation between rescueservices and medical responders,” Community Medics added.

NSRI volunteers bring akitesurfer andtwo lifeguardssafelyback to shoreafter their rescue craftcapsized off Melkbosstrand.

Searescuelaunchesfundraiser

Followingone of itsbusiest festive seasonsonrecord, the National Sea Rescue Institute (NSRI) has launched Cars4Good 2026, anationwide fundraising campaign in partnership withSuzuki Auto South Africa,aimed at strengtheningrescue readiness and preventing drowning across the country.

Between 15 December 2025 and 15 January 2026, NSRI volunteers rescued 201 people, marking a26% increase compared to the same period lastyear. National callouts rose by 32.5%, while the most alarming figure was a117% spike in “Drowning in Progress” incidents emergencies requiring immediate, life-ordeath responses. These incidents increased from 18 to 39 year on year

ACRISISTURNEDINTOACALLFORACTION

The sharp rise in rescues comes against asobering backdrop: more than1000 people drownevery year in South Africa, many of them children. Cars4Good 2026 aims to turn this reality into action by mobilising publicsupport for the NSRI’s rescue and prevention work.

“This is more than afundraising drive,” said NSRI CEO Mike Vonk. “It’s acampaign that represents who we

SUZUKI PARTNERS WITH NSRI FOR NATIONAL CARS4GOOD FUNDRAISER

are:practical, accountable, anddeeply committed to saving lives. Behind every rescue is afamily waiting for someone to come home.”

FOURJIMNYS,FOURMISSIONS,ONECAUSE

At the heart of thecampaign is astriking partnership with Suzuki Auto South Africa.Fourspecially wrapped Suzuki Jimny 5-doors are touring the country, each representingakey pillar of the NSRI’swork:

.BlueJimny –Showcasing the whale disentanglement unit, whichrescued 70 marine animals in 2025.

.Red Jimny –Representing 1069 rescue operations in 2025, saving1 548 lives.

.YellowJimny –Celebrating NSRI lifeguards at 55 beaches, preventing emergenciesbefore they occur.

.Pink Jimny –Highlighting the Pink Rescue Buoy project, credited with saving over251 livessince 2017.

“These Jimnys are fun,eye-catchingand different —just likethe NSRI’s approach to turning everydaySouth Africans into lifesavers,”said Dirk Coetzee, NSRI businessdevelopment manager.

Each vehicle features aQRcode linking directly to thecampaign,making it easy formembers of the public to getinvolved wherever they spot the cars.

HOWCARS4GOOD2026WORKS

Cars4Good2026 tickets costR695, withonly 45 000 tickets available. Each ticket enters supportersinto four draws throughout the year, with the chanceto win oneoffour Suzuki Jimny 5-doors, each valued at R465 900.

Funds raised will support the NSRI’s core services,including:

Water safety education –Over 900000 lessons deliveredin2025.

Survival swimming –More than25000 children trained in basic water survival skills

Training andrescueequipment–For the NSRI’s1 500-strongvolunteer crew

BUILTONTRUSTANDTRANSPARENCY

The NSRI said the campaign is conducted underthe oversightofthe National Lotteries Commission, ensuringintegrity and transparency.

“We deeply valuepublictrust,” said Alison Young, NSRIhead of performance marketing. “The Commission’s guidance helps ensure Cars4Good is run fairly and responsibly.”

Suzuki Auto South Africa also highlighted the importanceofthe partnership. “Weare thrilled to partner withthe NSRI,” said BrendonCarpenter,

Suzuki brand marketing manager. “This collaboration allows our brand and customers to makea tangible difference in life-savingefforts.”

.Formoreinformation or to enterCars4Good 2026,visit www.nsri.org.za/support-us/nsricar-2026

Currolearnerovercomes languagebarrier

KAILINDANIELS

KAILIN.DANIELS@NOVUSMEDIA.CO.ZA

Two years ago, Zhongwei Liao entered Curro Century City High School unable to speak asingle wordofEnglish. Today, he is among theschool’stop achievers, boasting an impressive 82,57%average,five subject distinctions, and aplacein the IEB’s top 1% for mathematics.

ForZhongwei, the transition was daunting. With all instruction deliveredin English, the language posed asignificant hurdle. But instead of seeing it as an insurmountable obstacle, he viewed itas “a wall that blocks my growth” –one that could be broken down withdetermination and strategy

THEPATHTOFLUENCY

Zhongwei’s approach was both strategic and immersive.

“What worked for me was listening to more English and speaking more. Ialso tried to think in English,” he explains. However, conversational Englishwas only partofthe challenge.

“Speaking English and academic English aretotally different,” he notes. To bridge the gap, he dedicated himself to practising past exam papers, watching English TV series, and engaging in conversationswith friends—turning every moment into an opportunitytolearn.

The hard work paid off. Zhongwei earned distinctions in five subjects, including

scores above 90% in two,and secured aprestigiousspot in the IEB’s top1% formathematics. He credits much of his success to theunwavering support and patience of his teachers.

“To get top marks, you can never do it without their support,” he acknowledges RECOGNITIONANDWISDOMFORTHEFUTURE

In recognition of his outstanding achievements andresilience, Zhongwei wasawarded the Head of High School Award forthe Class of 2025. Throughout his journey, he carried the wise words of his father closetoheart: “Do it and strive anddonot delay because the outcome will be better than yourexpectation.”

Forothers facingtheir own challenges, Zhongwei’s adviceisclear: “Neverbe afraid because achallenge alsoleads to growth. Smooth seas never makeskillful sailors. The mostimportantadvice is to always feel confident andnever doubt your abilities. If you believe in yourself, youwill realise your full potential.”

LOOKINGAHEAD

Now pursuing chemistry at the University of Cape Town, Zhongweiviews his past obstaclesnot as barriers butas lessons.

Forhim,the language wall didn’t just crack, it came down completely. His story is apowerful reminderthat with determination, support, andself-belief, no challengeistoo great

ZhongweiLiao from CurroCenturyCityachievedA’s in fiveofseven subjects,scoring 90% or above in two.With an overallaverage of 82,57%,Zhongwei ranksinthe IEB top1%for onesubject.

James Park-Rossplacedthirdinthe WesternCape withanoutstanding 96,2%matric averageatthe 2025 NSCAwards.

Milnerton High shines

Milnerton High School celebrated aproud and memorable moment as two from itsClass of 2025 werehonoured at the prestigious Western Cape National Senior Certificate (NSC) Awards recently.

Theceremony at Leeuwenhof, which brought the province’s top-performing learners together, was hosted by Western Cape Premier Alan Winde, joined by MEC for Education David Maynier and Director-General Brent Walters.

LEARNERBROKE DOWN ‘WALLTHATBLOCKED MY GROWTH’

Among the province’s best was James Park-Ross, placed third overall in the Western Cape with a96,2% average, and Jana Brink,aTop 40 achiever with an impressive 94,7% average, testament to her consistency, determination and academic excellence. “The achievements of James and Jana reflect years of hard work, discipline and perseverance,” the school said, “and stand as asource of inspiration for learners across the school. Their success not only highlights individual commitment but also underscores the strong academicculture fostered at Milnerton High.”

Activistscryoutoverdeadsunfish

KAILINDANIELS

KAILIN.DANIELS@NOVUSMEDIA.CO.ZA

Environmental activistgroup RethinkTheStink has raisedthe alarm following what it describes as a heartbreaking setback at Milnerton Lagoon, after the discoveryofdeadfish recently —including alarge sunfish just as signs of ecological recovery had begun to re-emerge.

According to the group,fish hadrecently returned to the lagoon and aseal hadeven been spotted, offering hope thatyears of pollution might finally be easing. That optimism was short-lived, the group said.

“Another sewage spill has once again poisoned the lagoon, leavingdead fish in its wake,” Rethink The Stink saidin social media post. “With water quality testresults not updated since 4November, andrepeated pleas for answersmet with silence, the communityisleft helpless and angry —denied transparency, accountability, and thebasic right to know what is happening to our water.”

CITYRESPONDSTOSUNFISHDISCOVERY

Responding to theconcerns,the City of Cape Town’s Deputy Mayorand Mayco member for spatial planning and environment, Eddie Andrews,saidthe City is aware of the sunfish incident and moved swiftly to remove the animal.

“The City is aware of the sunfish, as we removed the animal after the Two Oceans Aquarium had measured and sampled it for genetic research. We are not aware of any other dead fish from last week,” Andrews said He explained that sunfish are openwater pelagic species and do not naturally inhabit shallow lagoonenvironments.

“This sunfish most likely entered the lagoon at high tide, became disoriented,

and strandedwhen the tide receded. The fishmeasuredapproximately 2m by 2m, while the lagoon mouth is significantly shallower than two metres at low tide,” Andrewssaid.

TheCityadded that weekly dissolved oxygen monitoring shows that while the upper reaches of the Diep River remain oxygen-poor due to pollution, oxygen levels at thelagoon mouth —where the sunfish was found —meet or exceed acceptable levels of 4–8 mg/l.

Mayco memberfor water andsanitation Zahid Badroodiensaid the water andsanitation’s relevant sewer team inspected the area andfound no sources of contamination. The directorate’s Water PollutionControl Unit is alsoconducting their owninvestigations into the matter.

“Regarding thewater quality test results statement, the public dashboard andOpen Data Portal experienced technicaldifficulties during November andDecember last year as aresult of theCity’s GIS Software Upgrade Project. Relevant departments are currently configuring the system to enable weekly data synchronisation. As aresult,the dashboardisnot yet fully automated and Inland Water Quality data continues tobe uploaded manually each month as atemporarysolution. Download functionality has also been restored,” Badroodien said.

RESIDENTSREMAINUNCONVINCED

Despite theexplanation, residentsliving near the lagoon say trust remains low,

with many feelingexhausted by repeated incidents and alack of timely public information

“We keep hearingtechnical explanations, butwhatwesee with ourown eyes is a lagoon that keeps getting sick again and again,” said Milnertonresident Sarah Jacobs.

“If waterquality tests are being done weekly, whyaren’t the results shared immediately withthe public?” asked local kayaker andresident Mark Petersen.

“We were finally starting to feel hopeful, then suddenly there are dead fish again. It’s emotionally draining to care so much and feelignored,” said Woodbridge Island resident LeanneWilliams.

“TheCity keeps talking aboutlong-term plans, butpeople who live here want to know what’s happening now,” added Yusuf Moller.

ONGOINGINTERVENTION

The City says thelagoon remains the focusofa multi-year, multi-pronged interventionprogramme, details of which were sharedatapublic meeting held on Wednesday29October2025.

Residents were briefed on sewer and pump station upgrades, improvements at thePotsdamWastewater Treatment Works (WWTW),strengthened maintenance schedules, and ongoing environmental monitoring.

“TheCity thanksresidents for their ongoing engagement as we roll out these multi-year interventions. The reports presentedshow steady progress being made, which reflects ourcommitment to restoring theecological health of the MilnertonLagoon andthe wider Diep Rivercatchment,”said Badroodien.

Accordingtothe City: . Over12km of sewerlines were

proactively cleaned between May and October2025.

.Monthly sewer blockages in the Lower Diep and Rietvlei catchment dropped from 4270 in October2024 to 3460 in September 2025.

.Major sewer rehabilitation projects have been completed or are under way in Montague Gardens, Milnerton, Century City and along the R27.

.All 112 pump stations in the Blaauwberg region are equipped with telemetry for early fault detection, while significant upgrades —including aR61 million sand trap at Koeberg Road Pump Station have already reduced overflow impacts.

TheCity’s R5,2 billion Potsdam WWTW upgrade, launched in April 2023, has passed 60% completion and remains on track for completion in 2027/28. Once fully commissioned, the upgraded facility is expected to deliver major improvements in effluent quality and environmental performance.

While City officials maintain that progress is being made, activists and residentsinsist that real-time transparency, faster communication, and public access to environmental data remain critical.

Crimefighters get skills upgrade

RICHARDROBERTS

RICHARD.ROBERTS@NOVUSMEDIA.CO.ZA

Acrime-scene management workshop was heldrecently in Bothasig.Its objective was to teach members of community-safety structures howtodealwith crime scenes.

Free practical workshops were being offered to community policing forums (CPFs), Community in Blue (CiBs) and neighbourhood-watch organisations as part of an ongoing effort to strengthen and professionalisecommunity-safety structures, said Mario Borchards, chair of theBothasig CPF.

Theworkshops,suchasthe one hosted this past weekend, are offered by the Bothasig CPFand are facilitated by Jan Botha, CPF security specialist. The focus is to equipvolunteers with the knowledge, skills andconfidencerequired to operate effectively, responsibly and within the law when they areconfronted with acrime scene.

“In high-pressure situations, such workshops improves decision-making, ensures legal compliance, promotes professional conduct andstrengthens coordination withthe police and other keystakeholders,”said Borchards. “Most importantly it builds community trust and contributes to safer, more resilient neighbourhoods.”

The practical workshops cover situational awareness, crime scene management, visible check-point safety and protocol, and self-defence and the law.

Borchards said by investing in ongoing training, community-safety organisations move beyondgood intentions and ensure that theiractions in the field are ethical, lawfuland effective, acritical step in supporting crime prevention and public safety at grassrootslevel.

Botha, the facilitator, concurred.

The purpose of running practical, in-field workshops is to upskill first responders, whoinmanycases are neighbourhood

watch or CiB members. These volunteers are often the first on scene and play a critical role in stabilising situations before formal emergency services arrive, he said. “Practical field training, such as crime scene management, motor-vehicle accident response and other highpressure scenarios, ensures responders are equipped with atrained, level-headed approach when it matters most. The in-house training provided focuses on equipping patrollers with the necessary skills and knowledge to either take control of ascene until the police arrives or to effectively coordinate with and assist the police once they are on site.”

Botha said by undergoing training at theseworkshops members are empowered to make sound tactical and legally compliant decisions, as they understand the relevant procedures, protocols and limitations of theirrole.

“This ultimately enhances scene safety, preserves evidence and supports more effective law enforcement outcomes.”

PushingaheadwithMilnertonerf

KAILINDANIELS

KAILIN.DANIELS@NOVUSMEDIA.CO.ZA

Residents of Milnerton and Table View have voiced strong opposition to aproposed development on Erf 38599, on the corner of Circle Road and Eagle Crescent,accusing the CityofCape Town of pushing ahead despite years of objections and formal petitions.

The development, marketed asMillview, is beingadvertised as alarge residential project comprising more than 300 flats, houses, aclubhouse and paddle courts, with units selling from R1,95 million. Residents say the project is advancing without meaningful engagement with the surrounding community, raising concerns about traffic congestion, environmental impact and mounting pressure on already stretched local services.

COMMUNITYSAYSOBJECTIONSIGNORED

Local residents and civic groups argue that their concerns have repeatedly

been dismissed throughout the planning process.

“We have signedpetitions, submitted objections andspoken up at every opportunity,” said Des Palm, spokesperson forCapeofGood Hope NPC, acommunitybased civic organisation with longstanding involvement in matters relating to Erf38599.“yetthe City continues as if we don’t exist! This is ablatant disregard forcommunityvoices!”

He saidresidents believed the proposed R5,9milliondevelopment contribution cannotcompensate for the long-term social andenvironmentalimpactsassociated witha high-density development in the area.

MARKETINGRAISESQUESTIONS

Akey sourceoffrustration for residents is the marketingofunits despite the absence of approvedbuilding plans.

Signage at thesite advertises unitsfor sale,even though, accordingtothe City, no building plans havebeen approved for

DEVELOPERSARE PUSHING AHEAD AFTER DISMISSALOF CITY-APPROVAL APPEAL

Erf 38599.

Thecommunity has called on the City to confirm whether approvedbuilding plans exist before any further marketing or sales activity is allowedtocontinue.

CITYCONFIRMSLAND-USEAPPROVAL, NOTBUILDINGPLANS

In response, theCity of Cape Town confirmed that while no building plans have been approvedthe landuseapplication for therezoning and subdivisionofErf 38599 was approved by theMunicipal Planning Tribunal (MPT) on 5July2022.

The approval allows for 377 flats not exceeding 100 m² each,nine group houses and16single residential erven. Two rounds of public participation were conducted in July andAugust 2020, during which153 objections were received. Both theapplicantand objectors were afforded theopportunity to address the MPTbefore thedecisionwas taken

APPEALSDISMISSED, APPROVALREMAINSVALID

The City said theapproval was subsequently appealedbyobjectors, but theappeal was dismissedand the decision upheld by theAppeal Authority on 8May 2023. Theland-use approvalremains valid until May 2028.

Accordingtothe City, specialist traffic, environmental, social andinfrastructure impactassessments were conducted and assessed by relevant technical departments as part of the application process.

Addressing concerns on the sale of units prior to building plan approval the City stated that it does not regulate the marketing or sale of properties, noting such activity is undertaken at the developer’s own discretion and risk Building work may not commence until plans are formally approved.

TheCityalso confirmed that acontainer placed on the siteearlier thismonth was unauthorised and that anotice of contravention was issued by abuilding inspector on 6January 2026.

COUNCILLORRESPONDSTOCONCERNS

Ward councillor Sue van der Linde said she had received numerous queries about Erf 38599 and had met with City officials and community representatives to clarify the situation. “I held ameeting with Karen Sam Davis and members of GTAF where we discussed each point in detail. It was agreed that the response brought clarity to the situation.”

She added she had requested that the City cut and maintain the stretch of land and bill the landowner for the service, and she would continue to monitor developments on the site.

RESIDENTSWARNOFWIDERCONSEQUENCES

Despite the City’s explanations, residents remain dissatisfied and are calling for approvals to be halted pending further consultation. They warn that failure to meaningfully engage communities could erode trust in local government and set atroubling precedent for future developments across Cape Town.

“This is about more than just one development,” Palm said. “It’s about accountability, transparency and ensuring residentsare not ignored in decisions that affect theirlives and neighbourhoods.”

CenturyCitysewerupgraded

The City of Cape Town’s Water and Sanitation Directoratehas completed amajor R8,3 millionsewer pipeline-renewal project in Century City, strengthening sanitationservices for both residents and businesses in the area

Theupgrade forms part of the City’s MayoralPriority Programme(MPP),which has allocated R589,5 million in the 2025-’26 financial year for maintenance and pipereplacement projects across Cape Townto ensure the long-term reliability of essential infrastructure.

Critical infrastructure renewed

The Century City project involvedthe rehabilitation of nearly 2000m of sewer pipeline,carried out between July andthe endofOctober 2025. Work focusedonkey routes includingCentury Avenue, Century Boulevard, Edison Way and Boundary Road.

The renewal was prioritisedafter the 25-year-oldsewer pipes showedsignificant signsofdeterioration, including collapses alongCentury Boulevard that required emergency repairs, corrosion between Mercantile and Bridge roads, andfailing sewer lines near the sportingcourts on Century Avenue, which had resultedin open excavations and the potential for major traffic disruptions.

EMERGENCYREPAIRS

Initialemergency repairs were conducted usingsix open-trench excavationsto stabilise the most critical sections. Thiswas followed by amore advancedrehabilitation method known as cured-in-placepipe (CIPP), implemented in twophases.

Phase1focused on CenturyBoulevard near CanalWalk Shopping Centre, while phase 2took place along Century

PROJECTINVOLVED THE

Avenuenearthe Porsche dealership off Bosmansdam Road

CIPP technology involvesinsertinga specially designed liner into theexisting pipe,which is then cured to form adurable new inner pipe.This“pipe-within-a-pipe” method restores the sewer to near-new condition while significantly extendingits lifespan

LONG-TERMBENEFITSFORTHEAREA

Mayco member for Water and Sanitation, Zahid Badroodien, said theupgrade was essential to support the area’s continued growth

“With thearea’s growing population and activity, this sewer renewal was essential to ensuresewage is carriedsafely and reliably for years to come. We thank residents, businessesand visitors for theirpatience during this important work,” he said.

Thecompleted project delivers several long-term benefits, including extending the life of the sewer infrastructurefor decades, reducing leaksand blockages through asmooth, jointless inner surface, andminimising environmental impactby limiting excavation to small access points.

Additional benefits include reduced soil disturbance, helping to protect gardens, trees andnearby structures,aswell as fastercompletion times that limit disruption to residents, businessesand traffic.

Vermaak // Entertainment

Fullersing onderdieberg

Kaapstad se musiekliefhebbers kanuitsien na 'n besonderesomersaandwanneer die Amerikaansegospelkunstenaar BenFuller op Saterdag 21 Februarie by Kirstenbosch Nasionale BotanieseTuin optree

Die konsert, Under the Mountain with Ben Fuller, word deur Radio Tygerberg 104FM in samewerking met Fairtree aangebied,enbeloof om 'nunieke buitelug-ervaring te wees.

Ben Fuller is internasionaal bekendvir sy eerlike lirieke, energiekevertoningsenmusiek watreeds miljoene mensewêreldwydgeraak het. Sy trefferliedjies "Who IAm" en "IfI Got Jesus" het groot suksesopinternasionaleradiostasies en stromingsplatforms behaal, met laasgenoemde watreeds meer as 48 miljoen stromingswêreldwyd aangeteken het

Dieaand begin met'nlof-en-aanbiddingsessie, geleideur die geliefde Radio Tygerberg-musikante NevilleD,Rouchelle Liedemann en Henry Pike, voordat Ben Fuller die verhoogbetreevir sy langverad-optrede

HY IS BEKEND VIRSYEERLIKE LIRIEKE, ENERGIEKE

VERTONINGS EN MUSIEK WATMENSEREG OOR

DIE WÊRELD RAAK

Sonja Herholdt bring haar vertoning Tydloos op Dinsdag17Februarieom20:30 na Die Boer-teaterrestaurant in Durbanville.Syneemdie gehoor op‘n nostalgiesereis met goue oues met ’n produksiewat bestaan uit haar bekende en anderimmergroen liedjies,staaltjiesenvoorlesings.Sy maak gebruik vanagtergrondmusieken klavierbegeleiding vir‘n uniekeervaring.Die aanslag is nostalgies en intiem,togook methumor en deernis watveral byvalby’nouer gehoor salvind.Kaartjies kosR250.Bespreek by www.dieboer.com of by 021 9791911.

THINKING OUTLOUD

To agewith grace through seasons of change

"When you look up, say thank you. You may not know what you receive. Every day you are covered, in your carand anything can happen on the way, butGod makesyour path clear."

These are words from Freda Naidoo, agreat-grandmother that Irecently interviewed for astory upon reaching 100 years of age.

Aweek later, Ifind her words ofadvice for those wishing to live ahealthy and prosperous lifestill echoand intriguemy mind whether I'm driving to the office or daydreaming on the balcony of my apartment.

During the interview, Ifound myself dumbstruck at the sheer optimism and infectious senseofhumour Naidoo displayed as she shared her story.

As Iapproached her home, Isaw her exotically decorated porch with shrubs whilst agroup of cats lay onher stoep in the afternoon sun.

Upon introducing myself, she greeted me with the utmost respect andenthusiasm one would not expect from someone who just turned 100. She sat in her couch whilst her walker stood at her knees

Once Iswitched on my voice recorder andthe interview unfolded,Ifelt transported to asimpler timewherethe flow of life was allowed to move at amore moderate,yet oppressive pace, considering it was the height of apartheid.

YETSHE’SSTILLSTANDING, LAUGHINGANDBAKINGTRIFLES FORCHRISTMAS...

Isaw her eyes gleamed as she recalled her fond childhood memories of a forgotten version of Piketberg, whereshe was born. She enthused with childlike delight as she toldmeabout her mother's lovefor baking cakes.

At the age of 23 she got married, asmost of ourgrandparentsand parents did at that time, and started her life as afurrier when she moved to Diep River. However,not long after their move, tragedy struck when she, herhusband and 12-year-old daughter,were forcibly removed and ordered to move to Fairways due to the Group Areas Act.

Her voice was stirring and filled her lounge with ahaunting wisdom. Shewas theyoungest of four siblings, all of whom have passed, and as Ilistened to her,I wondered what the weight of her life felt like.

She is amother to five children; her eldest daughter sadly died when she was forty.

She experienced no chronic illnesses nor any addiction to alcohol or smoking. Her sharp and infectious senseof humour was evident as she told mewhy she never smoked.

"I'll tell you exactly why Inever smoked!" she told this story withOscar-worthy gestures and passion. In her nineties she was struck by aQuantumtaxi while trying to crossthe road, flung over the vehicle, cracked her skull twice and suffered abroken hip.

She recovered in hospital for10 months onlytoendure aruptured vein.

Andyet she's still standing, still laughing and baking trifles for Christmas and taking Ubers for aweekly shopping. When the interview ended,Ifelt a tremendous sense of gratitudetobealive Her grit, determination andnever-saydie attitude will always remain with me wherever Igo.

Before Ireached my car, she held my hand and looked me in the eye and said she sees aprosperous futurefor me.

-KEANAN HARMSE

Kommentaar // Comments

EIAfor Altydgedacht is flawed

As aresident andvolunteer in Kenridge, Iwouldlike to comment on the article"Stilltime to comment on proposedAltydgedacht development", published in the TygerBurger on 21 January.

Theinformation the environmentalconsultants have offered to the public is notaccurate. Aquick read of the summarycreates the impression thatthe development is “environmentallyacceptable and sustainable”, as claimed by Guillaume NelEnvironmental Consultants (GNEC) in their basic assessment report (BAR) and quoted in the article.

However, closer scrutinyshows otherwise:The most recent botanical surveyavailabletothe public dates back to 2016,which wasdoneinlateSpring. GNEC promised to do an updated survey as recommended by their botanisttoincludeother seasons, butnoupdated survey(s)havebeen released to the public.

TheentireBAR refers to the oldBiodiversity Network (Bionet) which guides responsibledevelopment by identifying sensitiveareas,corridors, rivers and wetlands. Sincethen, the City of Cape Town has updated its BioNet.Despitethe City of Cape Town's request that theyoverlay their plansonthe updated BioNet,the BARfailstodoso.

Theomissionand error in point oneand twounderminesthe landscaping, development andmanagement plans.Asa result,the landscaping plan places a pond over land classified by the City as “irreplaceable” Thereport also incorrectlyclassifies this area as CBA

Roadsimproved, vigilancestillvital

Residents of KuilsRiver have much to applaud regarding the recent major upgrades to our local road network. Theaddition of vehicularlanes and consideredtrafficcalmingmeasuresare adirect andwelcome responsetoour area’s growth. These improvements aresuccessfully carryingthe increased vehicleload, shorteningtraveltimes, andeasing the dailycommute formany. This significant investment in infrastructureisa positivestepforward

Particularlycommendableisthe incorporation of dedicatedcycle routes andpedestrian walkways.This forward-thinking design promotes healthier,moresustainable modes of transport and makes our community moreaccessible. However, thesenew facilities have brought their ownshare of challenges that requirea collective shiftinbehaviour

Apressingconcern is road safety at crossings. Somedrivers seem unawareoftheir obligation to give waytopedestrians wherewalkwayscross vehicular roads. This must be addressed throughawareness andvigilance to preventtragedy.I sincerelyappeal for consideration; thesepathsare forall people. Leashes andmindfulcontrol areessential foreveryone’ssafety andenjoyment

FEZEKILECOTANI,KuilsRiver

1b insteadofCBA 1a —anerror with seriousimplications forhow the entiredevelopment shouldbe approached, accordingtoenvironmental law.

Thecurrentplans ignorerecommendations from GNEC’sown botanicalsurvey, whichindicates two corridors that should remain open. Only anarrowstrip next to aserviceroadisretained, despitethe 2025 BioNet classifying the entiresiteasa corridor

CRITICALLYENDANGEREDVELD

An area identified by their botanist as having high rehabilitation potential forcritically endangered veld is nowearmarked forPhase 1ofthe development

It is upsettingtosee consultants assumethat declaringadevelopmentenvironmentally acceptable is sufficient,insteadofensuringthat it trulyis.

Iamnot opposedtodevelopment in principle. Land overrun by invasivespecies is also environmentally damaging.

If done correctly, this project couldbecomearare exampleofdevelopmentthatallowscaracals, porcupines, deer,chameleons, birds and indigenous flora to thrivealongside people, aplace wherechildren can learn the scentand character of localveld.

Followingproper environmentalprotocols would also enhancelong-term financial value—asanyone who hastried to buypropertynexttoanature reserve knows DALENATHERON,Kenridge

Verkeersoplossings?

Ons klaalmal daagliksoor die verkeersituasie in ons woonbuurte.

Al hoemeer ongesinchroniseerde verkeersligte werk nie, maar hier is dalk `n paar oplossingswat vinnig kan werk

Verbypaaie: Almal hoef niebyverkeersligte te stop as daar verbypaaie is nie; dis `n hoeksny-uitdraai vir verkeer watwil afdraai.

Daar is hope plekke waar dit suksesvol kanwees, byvoorbeelddie oorgeteerde La Belle-weg by die Stiklandbegraafplaas, die suidelikepunt vanCarlCronje by die FransConradie-, Durbanweg/Bloemhofkruising, hope in DurbanweginBellville op die nagmerriepadnaDurbanville

Elkeblokhoefnie 'n robot te hê nie!

Taxi's watverkeersreëlsverontagsaam: Goedkoop oplossing?Plant sypaadjierandstene dwarsoor plekke waar hullekortpad skiet soos by geel strepe en verkeersligte

Besteopsie: Koop hommeltuie metkameras wat enigetyd oortreders kanverras en afneem met hul registrasienommers en al.

Boetes salbinne 'n kort tydjie vir die aankoop en vir die moniteringsentrum betaal Bendegebiede behoort ook snags hiermeegemonitor te word WAARNEMER,Bellville

Have we been heard?

Iwritethis letter with adeep senseofsadness and frustration aboutwhatOakdalehas become. Youhave heardthis before,and nowyou aregoingtohearit again.This is notwritteninanger,but in heartbreak. Aheartbreakfor acommunitythatoncefeltsafe, orderly, andrespected.

Afew weeksago,residents were allowedtoobject to aproposeddevelopment described as “student accommodation”. Unfortunately,those of us who live andwork in this area have seen this pattern before Time andagain, what is promised on paper turns into something entirelydifferent in reality, often becoming hubsfor prostitution andrelated criminal activity. Residents areexhausted, but we arenot giving up.Wewill notbackdown, because ourhomes, ourlivelihoods, andour communityare at stake.

Oakdaleisnot just aresidential area;itisa place wherebusinesses operate andwherepeopledepend on those businesses to survive. Ahealthy community is onewherepeoplecan work with dignityand where clients canvisit businesses feeling safe andcomfortable. Instead, business ownersare forced to watchas prostitution, drugdealing, andharassment spillinto their doorways

Prostitution in ourstreets hasincreasedtosuch an extent that it nowfeelsnormalised. With it comes litter,public indecency, noise, reckless disregardfor road rules, andanerosionofrespect forthe area.How do we explain this realitytoour children?Oakdale residents aretired. Tiredofreportingthe same issues repeatedly. Tiredofwatching laws being ignored withoutconsequence. Tiredoffeeling unsafeinour own neighbourhoods.Mostofall,weare tired of feeling unheard.

This letter is aplea, once again to localauthorities, lawenforcement,and municipal leadership to truly seewhatishappening hereand to act. Not tomorrow Not after another meeting. Now.

WON’TBACKDOWN,Oakdale

Ward plans overpolitics

This year it is the localelections andlocal residents shouldbelooking at the governing party's legislation, policies and10-,20- and30-year visionplans including the municipal integrated development plan of the City of Cape Town forBrackenfellWard7and 8. TheGovernment of National Unityhas basically minimal saying in localgovernment proceedings. There is already amajor concernhow the DA strategyplans especially at localgovernment,provincialgovernment andnationalgovernment is conflicting, some even say it seemsthateachsphereishaving their ownvision plans.

Forlocal government elections laterthis year you need to look at the CityofCape Town's visionplans, andhow it willimpactyourward. Unfortunately the GNU won'timpactanything in Ward 7and 8in Brackenfell.

JJRESIDENCE,Brackenfell

Agenobarriertoparkrunner(84)

KAILINDANIELS KAILIN.DANIELS@NOVUSMEDIA.CO.ZA

At84years young Bart Jonckhas once again shown what the true spirit of parkrun is. On Saturday he celebrated an extraordinary milestone at Big Bay parkrun, completing his 400th parkrun and his 300th volunteer stint.

While the numbers alone arestaggering Jonck’s story is aboutmuch more than just participation. It’saboutshowing up week afterweek, whether to run, walk or lend ahelping hand. Jonck embodies the values of parkrun: inclusivity, generosity, perseverance, and the simple joy of movement.

“As many of us wrestle with the snooze button on Saturday mornings Bartisout there proving that age is no barrier to purpose or participation,” says the Big Bay parkrun team. “His presence on the route and among the volunteers quietly, but powerfullyreminds us thatparkrun isn’tabout speed; it’s about belonging.

WORDSFROMBIGBAYPARKRUN

“Bart Jonck has once again reminded us what the true spirit of parkrun isall about. At 84 years young Bartreached an extraordinary milestone, completing his 400th parkrun and his 300th volunteer stint. His commitment, generosity and joy in movement inspire us all.

“Bart, thank you for the hundredsof

BART JONCK EMBODIESATHE VALUES OF THE PARKRUN: INCLUSIVITY,GENEROSITY, PERSEVERANCE,JOY.

morningsyou’ve inspired us, encouraged others,and helped makeBig Bay parkrun the specialcommunity it is today. You areliving proof that consistencybeats intensity, that servicematters, and that it’s never too late to keep moving forward.”

WC ramps up enforcementto protect learnerson the road

The province has significantly intensified their enforcement operations, targeting scholar transport,afteratragic school transportcrash in Vanderbijlpark, Gauteng, officers have uncovered alarming levels of noncompliance.

Since schools reopened on 14 January, provincial law enforcement officers and municipal traffic services, have conducted 45 operations across the province, revealing widespread safety violations

The 10-day blitz yielded troubling results. Officers stopped over1600 vehicles, issued 1250 fines totalling more than R580 000, impounded 46 vehicles, and removed 23 unroadworthy vehicles from the roads —many of which were transporting learners at the time. Among the most serious violations detected were drivers operating under the influenceofalcohol, with threearrests made including one driver who recorded a blood alcohol reading of 0.68 mg/l —nearly three times the legal limit. Officers also discovered widespread vehicle overloading, unroadworthy conditions, and operators deliberately avoiding known enforcement routes.

Atotalof109 fines were issued specifically for public transport-related offences during the operations

While scholar transport regulated throughthe educationsystem is easier to monitor,authorities identified unregulated operations as the greatestconcern.

These services, often operating only during peak schoolhours,frequently fail tocomply withlicensingand safety requirementswhile remainingdifficult to track.

SAFETYOFLEARNERS

MECfor mobility, Isaac Sileku, said: “Our foremost concern is the safety of every learner who depends on transporttoget to and from schooleach day. Thatiswhy we have strengthened our enforcement efforts during the busiesttravel periods being 06:00to08:00 and 13:00 to 15:00, placing particular focus on overloading, seatbelt use, driver fitness, vehicle roadworthiness,and valid operating licences.”

Targeted interventions nowinclude intensified monitoring of high-riskroutes, increased oversight at known loadingpoints, andenhanced intelligence-sharing between the Western Cape Education Department and municipal partners

The province has issued strict guidelines fortransport operators, demanding they maintain roadworthy vehicles, operatewithvalid licenses, avoidoverloading, and ensure alldrivers remain sober.

Officials emphasised zero tolerance for violations that endanger children'slives.

Parentsare encouraged toverify thatvehicles are roadworthy, driversare properly licensed andsober, avoidoverloadedvehiles, andreport illegal or unsafe transport operations.

Doctorswarnofgastrosurgeseason

During very hot weatherascurrently experienced, health facilities across the Western Cape seean increase in children who arrive with gastro-related symptoms, according to amedia release by the provincial health department.

“Every year from November to May, more young children becomeill with diarrhoeaand pneumonia. Theseillnesses are common in young children, butit is important to remember that they can be treated and often prevented. When children receive help early,they usually recover well.

VULNERABLETODEHYDRATION

“As we move through the annual paediatricsurge season Red Cross War Memorial Children’s Hospital,the province’s specialist children’sfacility, has recorded anoticeable rise in these cases,” said Prof Heloise Buys, the hospital's head of ambulatory and emergency services.

“Gastroenteritis is one of the most common reasons for hospitaladmissions during this time of year. While many children can be treated at home, young children are especiallyvulnerable to dehydration, which canbecome lifethreatening if not managed early.”

The World Health Organisation estimates that nearly 1,7 billion cases ofchildhood diarrhoeal disease occur every year.

Good hygiene, safe drinking water and proper sanitation can prevent many of these, Buys said.

The hospital is encouraging parents and caregivers to take extra care during this time. Early recognition of symptoms and timely treatment can prevent severe dehydration and other complications.

GOOD HYGIENE CAN PREVENT DIARRHOEA

EARLYINTERVENTION

Buysstressesthe importance of early intervention: “Ifyourchild is unable to keepfluids down or shows signs of dehydration, seek medical help immediately.

“Oralrehydration solutions are the firstline of defenceand should be given as soon as symptoms appear. Asimple sugar-salt solutioncan be made at home by mixing onelitre of clean tapwater, eight teaspoons of sugarand half alevel teaspoon of salt. Stir well andofferit in small amounts, especially after each watery stool or whenthe child is thirsty If the water is nottaken directly from municipaltaps it must be boiled, cooled andthen used.”

Buys also reminds families that water canbecomecontaminated more easily. Open containers allow germs, dirt and pests to enter andincrease the riskof illnessin youngchildren.

Open buckets canbecome contaminated throughdirty hands, unwashed utensils dipped into thewater, animals, insects or householdpests, dust anddebris.

Contaminated water can carry diarrhoeal germssuch as E.coli, shigella, salmonella androtavirus,all of which can be especially harmfultobabiesand young children, shesays

SIMPLESTEPSTOPREVENTILLNESS

Parents and caregivers can protecttheir children by following these important steps:

. Washhands with soap andwater

regularly, especially beforepreparing food or drinks and after using the toilet; . Useonly clean, safe water for drinking, cooking, mixingbaby formula, washing fruit andvegetables, andbrushing teeth.

. Keep oral rehydration solution (recipe above) at home.Immunisations such as therotavirusvaccinehelp prevent severe diarrhoeal illness.

KNOWWHENTOSEEKHELP

Diarrhoeacan become dangerous very quickly in babies andyoung children because their bodies are small and they lose fluids faster and are at higher risk of dehydration.

Parents and caregivers are encouraged to seek medical attention immediately if theirchild develops diarrhoea, Buys urges.

“Seek help urgently if your child shows any of the following: persistent vomiting and diarrhoea; signs of dehydration (dry mouth, sunken eyes, fewer wet nappies or less urine); unusual sleepiness, weakness or difficulty waking; refusal to drink or feed; blood in the stool; convulsions together with fever; swollen feet or ankles.

“Breastfeeding remains very important and should continue during illness. Antibiotics are not recommended for viral gastroenteritis. Parents are encouraged to visit theirnearest clinic for support.”

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Young footballersenjoy weekend of skills training

Kuils River-based Newman'sFootball Club hosted athree-day football performance hub for players from across CapeTownatBellville Technical High School over the weekend.

Nathan Newman, founder and director of Newman's FC, said the event was hosted in collaboration with some of the bestprivate football trainers locally –Nkala FTBL (Lwazi Mlonyeni), A+ Fitness and Coaching (Astria Boks, former Banyana Banyana player), Structured Futbol (Kyle Maart) and Glued Hands Goalkeeping (Keenan Smith and Siya Mbune).

Atotal of 206 players attended the event, with participants ranging from u-8 to u-20 age groups, including girls. "They were treated tofootball heaven as they hadan opportunity to train with these footballelitecoaches,"Newman said.

The purpose of theevent was to ensure children from all walks of life, particularly those from Kuils River,could access high-quality footballtraining on their doorstep.

The attendees were split into age groups androtated through various training and skill sessions throughout the three-day programme.

VARSITY CUPAND SHIELD SETFOR KICK-OFF

Playersgearup foraction

Young talented rugby players attertiaryinstitutions across the country are gearing up for the kick-off of the Varsity Shield and Varsity Cup, on Friday 13 and Monday 15 February respectively.

As usual,the tertiaryinstitutions inthe Western Capeare represented inboth competitions

In theVarsity Shield, Cape Town is represented by the Cape Peninsula University of Technology (CPUT) andthe University of the Western Cape (UWC). The two sides will compete against Madibaz, University of KwaZulu Natal (UKZN), Sol PlaatjeUniversity, Wits, Walter Sisulu and Fort Hare.

In the Varsity Cup, defending champions Ikeys and losingfinalist Maties will carry the flag for the Capetonians.

Other teams competing against them are Shimlas, Central University of Technology (CUT), North-West University (NWU), University of Johannesburg(UJ), University of Pretoria (Tuks)and Varsity College, known as Emeris.

Emeris won the Varsity Shieldtwo years after their initial involvement in the

tournament andprogressed to the Varsity Cup. CPUT are in action against Madibaz at home in their opening fixture andUWC travels to the Eastern Cape for the match against Fort Hare in Alice

In the Varsity Cup, Maties andIkeys both travelfor their first matches.Maties traveltoBloemfontein to play against Shimlas and Ikeys will visit Tuks in Pretoria.Sincethe matches are shownon television all thebig unions andfranchises will have the opportunity to see potential players in action to sign for the different unions and franchise.

Many of therugbyplayers of tertiary institutions in thepastbecame Springbok or Blitsbok players

AllCape teams are also in action in the Super League competitions of Western Province Rugby Union(WPRU) but areexempt from competing when the club competition kicks off on Saturday 22March due to the obligations in the Varsity Shield and Varsity Cup.

Bellville: 074858 6152

Grassy Park:076 5036916

Tygerbergers blinkuit

DieTygerbergers het in die meeste gevalle ‘n baie suksesvolle naweek agter die blad in die jongstesarsie topligakrieketwedstryde.

In die derby-kragmeting tussen Brackenfell (181) en Bellville (184/3) was dit grootliks die Bellvilliete Reece du Plessis (76*), Hanno Kotze69) en Evert Carstens (5/44) wat die kalklig gesteel het. Durbanville (199/5) het sy vyfpaaltjie-sege oor Groenpunt (198) grootliks te dankeaan die kolfwerk van Fritz de Beer (75*) en Laurens Smit (52).

In nog ‘n derby-tweestryd het Noordelikes-Goodwood

(43) heeltemal platgeval teen Kraaifontein (224/6),vir wie Daylon Beukes (74) en Diego du Plessis (7/25) pragtig op stryk was. Tygerberg-klub (151/7) het spogreg verkry teen St Augustine (148) —in‘ngroot mate danksy Lincoln Simons (64) se kolfwerk. Terselfdertyd het Edgemead (131) ondanks papperige kolfwerk, Primrose (70) katswink gespeel, danksy veral uitstekende boulwerk deur Duane Abel (5/13).

Milnerton (187) het egter sy rieme styfgeloop teen Pinelands (231) ten spytevan walgooikolfwerk deur Dillon Smit (78) –SAREL BURGER

Klinkendeoorwinningsbehaal

Die hoërskoleBellville,TygerbergenMilnertonseeerstekrieketspanne het die afgelope Saterdag ‘n besonder suksesvolle dagbeleefenklinkende oorwinningsin hulonderskeie wedstrydebehaal. Nadat Bellville die span vanCurro Durbanville totnet 117lopies beperk het, het Jordan Holtman (55*)ensymakkers ‘n sespaaltjie-segevir die Bellvilliete beklink. In ‘n puik HS Tygerberg-spanpoging —waarin Anees Buhardien (64)en nog drie makkers 50-talle behaalhet,het dieTiere 422/9inhul 50 boulbeurte teen TableViewopgestapel om die besoekers uiteindelik met 325lopies af te ransel MondreJulies (54en6/51) was‘nander groot Tygerberg-staatmaker DF Akademie se Justinvan Rensburg (101) is deur sy spanmaatsindie steek gelaat toehul 196 lopies nie ‘n agtpaaltjie-segevan Milnerton konweerhou nie DieMilnerton-kolwers watdie papsodik

aangemaakhet,was Daniel Bloemetjie (76*) en JaredBlessing (58). Fairmont (326) se M. Heyns (109) en Arush Verkat (6/22)was die groot uitblinkers om hul o.15-span ‘n weghol-sege oor Pinelands (102) te besorg. Ook HS Bellvillleseo.15’swas met hul 318lopies heeltemalbobaasteen Curro (154),danksy veraldie bydraes deur W. Liebenberg(68)enLukas Otto (54) In die enigsteamptelikeo.14-wedstryd in die WP NoordelikeStadsgebiede het HS Bellville (103/5),net soos sy senior spanne,met Curro(102) klaargespeel Die jaarlikse SammyBloch-uitklopkompetisie (25boulbeurteper span) skop vandag (Woensdag) af met die volgende wedstryde(tuisspan eerste): Milnerton tDurbanville, CurrotHS Tygerberg, Edgemead tHSBellville Stellenberghet ‘n loslooitjie in die eerste ronde –SAREL BURGER