UD Express - E-Edition - 12 February 2026

No-feeKariegaschoolplaguedbyfrequentvandalism

SHANTI JAFTA

ANO-fee-paying school in Kariega is fighting for survival as relentless vandalism threatens to shutdown educationfor hundreds of local learners

Vandals aresystematicallydestroying the institution by removing windows from their frames, stealing electricalcables, breaking toiletsfor scrap metal, and even takinglight bulbs.

This leaves classrooms without electricity or running water and forces educators to watch helplessly as their learners attempt to learn in conditions that rob themoftheir fundamental righttoeducation and their hopes for abetter future

Dower Practising School principal RogerScharnick said the vandalism to the school started in December 2025 and has happened approximately five times since.

“The school hasbecome atargetof cable theft, leadingtosevere vandalism.Ithas becomearegular occurrence, even though we have private security. They trip the alarm and evacuate the school beforesecurity arrives.”

On the specifics of what is being targeted, he said, “Mainly electri-

cal cables, DVD boards, plugs,light switches; basically anywhereyou find electrical wires. They alsotargetedtoilets, breakingbasins and toilets to access little pieces of copper ”

The thieves have cut neatly throughapalisadefence separating theschool from theJubileePark Cemeterywithtools, making their vandalism act premeditated.

“Wehavereasontobelieve that the suspects knowthe school well as they arrive shortly after everyonehas left andgostraight to what they want.”

As aresultofthe vandalism, GradeRtoGrade4learnersare affected as theloss is predominantly in theirsectionofthe school.When asked about the CCTV footage on the premises, Scharnick saidhe cannot access it because there is no electricity, making theschool security cameras useless.

“We dida quote forthe electrical damage repair,whichwas R100,000, anda second opinion on the cheaper side wasR58,000. These amounts exclude the vandalismand infrastructuredamage to the school.Everything inclusivecouldamount to close to R200,000; an amount anofee-paying school cannot afford.”

Scharnick added that learners as

young as six years oldare forcedto endureharshheat conditionswithout afan to cool them.

“Some windows are damagedto the pointwherethey cannot open, learners’vision in classrooms is impairedand teachersare also suffering. Thesummer weather is not good foryoung learners forcedto pay attention in the heat.”

When answeringhow the situation is affecting teachers, he said, “The moraleofthe staff is affected heavily and they (the culprits) are stealingfrom the futureofour learners. It seems that they aregetting away withit. Of course our teachers are workingthrough the heat, remainingprofessional,but thissituation can become unbearableattimes.”

Scharnick appealstobusinesses and community memberswho are able to assist to contact the school on 041 992 2302.

“Parents areurgedtoassist where they can; it doesnot have to be monetary help. If aparent wouldliketo volunteer to secure the premises after hours,that wouldbeappreciated,” Scharnick concluded.

Speaking to UD Express,regional Department of Education spokesperson,Malibongwe Mtima, said that the Department is aware of incidents of vandalismand infrastructuretheftaffecting Dower PractisingSchool

“Reports of similarchallenges are unfortunatelynot confined to this school alone, as anumber of schools withinthe Kariega area and other regionscontinue to experience vandalism, particularly after hours Such incidents are reported through established district and provincial channels, and each case is logged and assessed upon receipt,” he said When asked about the Department’s immediate and long-term measures to be implemented, he said, “The Department workswith district officialstoconduct damage assessments and prioritiseurgent repairs wherelearning and safety aredirectlycompromised. Immediate interventionsmay include the

Communityjoinshandsinsupporting SPCA,donatingoverR700,000

SHANTI JAFTA

SPCA Uitenhage has raised R700,424 in just 15 days towards securinga new property afterconfirming that it must vacateits current premises, even as theorganisation continues to deal with the fallout from arecentdonation scam involving an unauthorised individual.

The total includes money donated directly to the SPCA account, as well as money donated via acrowdfunding platform,BackaBuddy.

The organisationhas until 20 February 2026toraise R2.7 million to purchase aproperty that would ensure its continuedoperationinKariega, Despatch, Addo,Kirkwood and surroundingareas.

Chairperson Deirdré Swift said the fundraising momentum had been encouraging, particularly given thechallenges the organisation has faced in recent weeks.

“We have been overwhelmedbythe supportfrom the community.Every contribution brings us closer to securing apermanent home and ensuring that our doors never close,” Swift said The fundraiser,known as theRebuild SPCA Fund, was launched after the organisation confirmeditwas facingeviction, placing itsfuture, and the welfare of thousands of animals, at risk.

Swift said the urgency of thecampaign had unfortunately coincided with an incident in which aman al-

legedly collected money from members of thepublic while falsely claiming torepresent SPCA Uitenhage.

“Wewerequiteshocked when we heard aboutthe gentleman who was supposedly collectingmoney on our behalf. We are very grateful to the members of the publicwho alerted us, as that ultimately led to the matter being addressed.”

Shedescribed the incident as deeply disappointing, particularly during aperiod when the organisation is financially vulnerable. “It is very disappointingtothink that people would take advantage of an animal welfare organisation at atimelike this.”

Swift said the SPCA has since appealedtothe public to ensure that all donations are made throughverified channels.

She stressedthat no individualisauthorised to collect funds on behalf of theorganisation unless they are wearing official SPCA uniform,havevalid identification,orhave been formally approvedbythe SPCA.

“Anyonewho is legitimately assistinguswithfundraising will have our approval, and we are awareofwho they are,” shesaid

Shealso cautionedthe public to ensurethatphysical donations are delivereddirectly tothe SPCA throughthe main remote-controlled gate, noting that theorganisation no longer has access to thefrontofficeorveranda area.

“Anybody wanting to donate, adopt,

restoration of essential services such as electricity,water, and sanitation, subject to available resources and procurement processes.”

He added that from along-term perspective, theDepartment continues to engage with other spheres of government and relevant stakeholders to strengthen school securitymeasures, explore preventative strategies, and advocatefor community involvement in safeguarding school infrastructure across affected areas.

On the support system and emergency protocols foraffected schools, Mtimasaid theDepartment remains committed to minimising disruptions to teaching and learning when infrastructure challenges arise.

“District support teams provide guidance to school management on contingency measures, curriculumrecovery,and learner support wherenecessary,but we appeal to community members to report these cases to the police and not harbour thesecriminal elements. Forno-fee schoolsexperiencing severe disruptions,emergency interventions are consideredonacase-by-case basis, withthe primary focus on ensuringlearnersafetyand continuity of education whilst longer-term solu-

tions are pursued,” confirming that this is currently happening at the school Mtima concluded,“The Department acknowledges theimpact that vandalism has on learners, educators, and communities, and continues to appeal to allstakeholders to work collaborativelyinprotecting educational facilities as they form part of communitydevelopment.”

Oneofthe damaged switch boards at theschool.

or seek our assistance should come to the big gate and hoot. We will open for them,”Swift said.

Despite these challenges, Swift said community support has remained strong and has been critical in keeping the organisation operational.

“There are so many people helping us in amyriadofways. We ask the community to continue supporting us, while also being vigilant and checking whether something is legitimate,” she said.

Swift added that the response so far wasanencouraging indication of how seriously animal welfare is regarded by many in the community

“We arevery happy with the support we have received so far. It is a wonderful indicationthat, to many, like us, animal welfare is apriority. We remainhopeful and positive thata solution will be found.”

She confirmed that the property identified by the organisation is located in Kariega,which falls within the SPCA’s designated area of operation.

SPCA Uitenhagehas appealed to businesses, community members, and animal welfare supporters locally and internationally to assist where possible, noting that 18A tax certificates are available on request.

Members of the public seeking to verify fundraising efforts or to make enquiries can contact SPCA Uitenhageon041 922 4528 or 060 985 0804. For directdonations, visit the BackaBuddy page: https://bit.ly/4a8uTg7

Kariegaresidentleadsvolunteercleanup

SHANTI JAFTA

ALOCAL resident has takenthe initiative to clean up an area near the Uitenhage Train Station, citing growing concernover neglectand the impact it has on community morale.

Barend Lombard, the founder of theFacebook page ILove Uitenhage,isleading a volunteercleanup at asite near the station commonly referred to as “DieWaterval” The cleanup is scheduled to take placeon Saturday,21February,weatherpermitting Speakingto UD Express,Lombard said the idea for the initiative was born out of ongoing conversations with residents about the deterioration of publicspacesin Kariega and the wider NelsonMandela Bay Metro. “I havealways worried aboutthe general decay andneglect of Kariega, andfor that matter,the whole Metro,” Lombard said “For the most part people complain about thepotholesand the water leaks that run unchecked for along time before it gets addressed.”

He saidaturning point came after repeated exposure to what he describedasoverwhelming negativity. “Quite afew people

were so negative that you could almostfeel it in the air,” he said. “Mywife asked me, ‘Ja, butwho is goingtochange that?’ Right thereI took my phone and started thepage.”

Kariega, historically referredtoasthe “GardenTown”, has long been associated

withwell-maintained public spaces. Lombard saidthislegacy continues to motivate his efforts.

“Kariega has been the ‘Garden Town’ for as long as Ican remember,” he said. “Why must agroupofpeople, known for theirder-

RotaryCluboffersbursariestothoseinneed

THERotary Club of Uitenhage’s Education Trusthas opened applications for its 2026 bursary programme, aimed at supportingfinancially needy students from Kariega and Despatchwho wish to pursuepost-matric studies.

The bursaries are available to students who have achieved aminimumof60% in their matricexaminations, as well as those cur-

rently enrolled at arecognised South African tertiary institution.

According to the RotaryClub,the initiative forms part of itsongoing commitment to improving access to education in the region

“Throughour Education Trust, we aim to assist deserving students from Kariega and Despatch to further their studies and build sustainable futures,” RynhardtFourie of the

Keytrafficlightsrepaired

Repairs to trafficlights wereunderway in the municipality, with progress being made toimprove safety and trafficflow

Recently,the trafficlights at the intersection of Cannon Street and Church Street were successfully restored.According to Ward 51 Councillor Roelf Basson, themunicipality is currentlyprioritisingtraffic lights that have not been severely damaged and can be repaired with existing resources. Intersections that havesuffered extensive damage will require alarger budget beforeworkcan begin.He added that arequest has also beensubmitted to convertcertain intersections into four-way stop streets where trafficlightscannot be repaired immediately.This interim measure aims to enhance safetyand manage trafficwhile permanent solutions areplanned. Municipal officials statedthat while not all trafficlights can be repairedatonce, each restored intersection contributes to safer roads and smoother dailycommuting. PHOTO: FACEBOOK

RotaryClub said. “While the bursary providesmeaningful support,applicants must be aware that additional funding may be required, as the bursarymay not cover all academic expenses for the year.”

Prospective applicants areadvised to secure supplementaryfinancial assistance wherepossible.

eliction of duty, be allowed to bring atown with aproud history to itsknees? Iamtrying, in my own way, to prevent that.”

According to Lombard, the station-area sitewas chosen because of itsvisibilityand potential impact.“Most people drive past that spot regularly,” he said. “If we can create an effective rescue for everyone to notice, it might give them hope for the future.”

The cleanup will relyentirely on volunteers. Lombard has appealed to residents to bring garden equipment and energy, and has made aspecial request to local garden service companies to assist with grass and edge cutting for at least an hour.

“When the cleaning is done, atanker full of water is what the grass needs to show us itsfull potential,” he said.

Lombard said the municipality has already committed to trimming trees at the siteahead of the cleanup, which he views as apositive sign. “This bodes well for the future of Kariega,”hesaid.

“All Ihope is that we can prove we can worktogether. Together we can make adifference,”heconcluded.

For more information, contact Lombard on barendlombard4@gmail.com.

Bursaryapplicationforms can be collected from the UD Express office on Graaff-Reinet Road in Kariega. "Completed application forms, together with copies of all required supporting documents, must be submitted in an envelope to the same office,"Fourie said.

The closing date for applications is Thursday, 28 February 2026. For more information, email the Rotary Club at rotaryuitenhageclub@gmail.com

VWGAcelebrates30yearsofPoloproduction

THEyear 2026 marks asignificant milestone year for Volkswagen GroupAfrica(VWGA) as the company celebrates 75 years in South Africaand 30 yearsofPolo production at its Kariega plant.

ThePolo story in South Africabegan in 1996 with the launch of the Polo Classic, afour-door sedan which bridged the gap between the Citi Golf and the Jetta/Golf ranges. In its first year, 5460 units rolled offthe production line.The Polo Classic quickly became afavourite among South Africans, paving the way for the hatchback versionintroduced in 1998.

In 2003, an updated Polo Classicwas launched and won theprestigious South African Guild of Motoring Journalists (SAGMJ) “Car of the Year” award. In 2011, the Polo was thejoint winner of the SAGMJ “Car of the Year”award.

To date, Plant Kariegahas manufactured four generations of the Polo, with the latest model currently in productionsince 2021.

In 2024, Plant Kariega became the sole manufacturer and exporter of the Polo for Europe and the Asia-Pacific region, supplying vehicles to 38 countries while maintaining astrong presenceinthe South African market. That year, VWGA achieved its highest-ever produc-

tion recordof167 084 vehicles, of which 131 485 Polos were exported and 35 599 Polos andPolo Vivos were sold locally. Additionally, VWGA produces the Polo GTI, asporty high-performance versionofthe Polo.

By the end of 2025, VWGA had proudly built morethan two million Polos in Kariega. Of these, 595 043 were sold in South Africa, while 1421 960 were exported to 38 countries, with the United Kingdom being the largest export market.

On average, it takes three days and 1985 sets of hands to build one Polo, with around 1400 individual parts coming together to create one of South Africa’smost loved vehicles.

“2026 is ayear of celebration for Volkswagen GroupAfrica. Reaching 75 yearsinSouth Africaand 30 yearsofPolo production is not only aproud milestone for our company, but also for our Kariega plant and our employees,” saidUlrich Schwabe, VWGA Production Director.“This milestone is atestament to the dedication, skill, and passion of our employees, whose commitment has made the Polo a success storyboth locally and internationally. Theircontribution has been the drivingforce behind the Polo’s success.”

InteractClub presidentinducted

TheInteract ClubofSolomon MahlanguSecondary School in KwaNobuhle inducted itsnew president duringahandover ceremony held on Friday,6February. Theprogramme openedwithanintroduction by CliveHassell from theRotaryClub of Uitenhage South. OutgoingpresidentHiniLuphumelo then delivereda presentation reflecting on heryearinoffice, describing herexperience as both upliftingand personally enriching. Motivational addresses followed from twoformer learners of theschool, Themba Maseti, thelong-standingmanager of theLoveLife Centre in KwaNobuhle,and LuyandaKani, an entrepreneurwho nowrunshis own software company.The formal handover marked the central moment of theevent,withLuphumelo passing thechain of office to thenewly inductedpresident,EmihleVamba, whodelivereda brief acceptance speech.

Localonlineradiofillsgapincommunitystorytelling

SHANTI JAFTA

KARIEGAOnline Radio (KOR) was established in 2024 at atimewhen many residents of thetown felt their concerns, achievements and everyday realities were being overlooked.

Founded by Sandile Buzani, who was born and raised in Kariega, the online station emerged from repeated conversations with community members who felt unheard.

Speaking to UD Express,Buzani said,“EverywhereI went, people were complaining that their issues were not being taken seriously. Service delivery problems,young people struggling, even positive things happening in the community, therewas no proper platformtelling those stories. That’s when Irealised weneeded our ownvoice.”

The station operates as adigital radio platform, broadcasting amix of talkshows,community discussions, music and local updates.While modest in its resources, Kariega Online Radio has positioned itself as aspace wherelocal experiences are shared by people who live in the area them-

selves.

Buzani recalledthe uncertainty ahead of the station’s first broadcast.

“The day before, Iwas at work. Iwas nervous but excited. We didn’t have fancy equipment. Ijust told myself thatevenifonly one personlistened, it would be worthit.”

Thatearly sense of uncertainty has not disappeared entirely. According to Buzani, the station’sbiggest challengeremainssustainability.

“Resources are the biggest struggle. Dataisexpensive,equipment breaks, electricitycosts money. The station is run by volunteerswho give their time becausethey believe in it. Some days it’s not aboutplanning or ideas; it’s about whetherwecan stay online.”

Despite these constraints, the station has already had avisible impact on individuals withinthe community.Buzani pointstothe experience of ayoung local musicianwho was featuredonthe station forthe first time. “He had never beenplayed on radio before. After we interviewed him and played hismusic, he started getting bookingsand working with other artists. Hetold me hearing his

song on radio made him believe in himself.”

Moments like that, he said, reinforced the station’spurpose. “That’s when Irealised this really matters.”

KORislargely volunteer-driven and relies on contributions and informal support to cover operational costs. Buzani said support does not only havetobefinancial.

“It can be sponsorships, advertising, equipment or internet support,” he said. “However, realistically,we do need consistent monthly support to cover basicslike data,electricity and equipment. Without that, the station risks going quiet, and when that happens, the community loses a voice.”

Looking ahead,Buzani said success is not measured by scale alone, but by relevance. “Success is when people say, ‘I heard that on Kariega Online Radio.’ When young people who came throughthe station leave with skills, confidence and opportunities. When issues raised on airactually lead to change.”

ViergeslagteLyonssaam

Sondag, 1Februarie was ’n besonders spesiale dagvir die Lyons-familietoe vier geslagte saam was virbabaLuandré Lyons (drie maande) se inseëning. Pappa Lee-André Lyons (22), oupaLionelLyons(42), oupa-groot Deon Lyons (65) en die kleintjiehet met trots saambydie AGS Lofoord oorkant WillowdamopKariega gestaan. Luandré is op 10 November 2025 op 34 weke gebore. Hoewel dokters verwag het dat hy weke in die neonatale intensiewe sorgeenheid sou deurbring, is hy en sy mamma, ChloéPotgieter, na slegsdrie daeontslaan. FOTO’S: VERSKA

Thedecision to name the station after the town was deliberate. “Kariega is home,”Buzani said. “I grewup here. Thisplace shaped me. Naming the station after the town was about pride and ownership. This station belongstothe people of Kariega.”

As traditional and digital media spaces continue to evolve, Kariega Online Radio reflects agrowing shift towards community-led platforms;

CLASSIFIEDS?

ContactDebby-Lynn at debbylynn.vdyk@novusmedia.co.za or 041992 5650

Lettievier95steverjaardag

AlettaLouisa(Lettie) du Preez,inwoner vanAandmymering Tehuisvir OuerPersone op Kariega, het onlangs haar95ste verjaardaggevier. Sy is op 31 Januarie 1931gebore.Indie eerste foto word sy omring deur haar drieseuns-van linksnaregs: Jaco, Leon en Heinrich In dietweede foto is Lettie saam met haarsusters,Martha du Preez (90) en Cornelia Greyling (84).Lettie is die trotsematriarg van ‘n groot familiewat sewe kleinkinders en agtagterkleinkindersinsluit FOTO’S:VERSKAF

modest in scale, but rooted in proximity,trust and lived experience. Buzani added that residents can follow them on Facebook; Kariega Online Radio, the links areavailable there. For moreinformation contact Buzani on 069 174 1089 or krg.onlineradio@gmail.com.

Africa. This initiativeforms partofa libraryprides itselfon. PHOTO: SUPPLIED

PUBLICATION OFANAPPLICATION IN TERMS OF SECTION 71 OF THE NELSON

ERF/ERVEN: 5995Kariega

PHYSICALADDRESS:59DunnRoad,Mosel APPLICANT:DeBruynsConsultantsPtyLtd ONBEHALFOF: SPNgoqo

Noticeisherebygiventhatanapplicationwillbemadeto theNelsonMandelaBayMetropolitanMunicipalityfor:

1.Anapplicationfortownplanningdeparturefromside buildinglinesrequirementsof1.5mto0malongerf5973 andstreetbuildinglinesfrom3mto1.5m

2.theremovalofconditions2(e)(i),(ii),(iii),(iv)contained intheTitleDeedNo.[T19811/2019)applicabletoErf 5995KariegaintermsofSection47oftheSPLUMA; The detailed proposal may be requestedfrom the applicant

Members of the public are invited to submit comments, objections or intervenerstatus using the Comments & ObjectionsFormintheSPLUMABylaw,withclearreasons inrespectoftheproposaltothefollowing:

(1)TheApplicant,DeBruynsConsultants(Pty)Ltd P.O.Box10653,LintonGrange6025,0647513270or viaemailMonique@debruynsconsultants.co.zaanda copysentto

(2)TheExecutiveDirector:HumanSettlements,POBox 9,PortElizabeth6000;c/oe-mail awilliams@mandelametro.gov.zaonorbefore 26thofMarch2026

Persons with disabilities who are not able to email may contact Ms Williams at 2nd Floor Lillian Diedericks Building, No. 191 Govan Mbeki Avenue, Gqeberha, Tel No.0415061813.

Aperson whodelivers comments,objections or representationswillbenotifiedifahearingistobeheldin respectoftheapplication.

(Comments submitted after the said date will be consideredinvalid.

NM10046149-UX120226

LEEUSKIETER

Established micro-lender(Cash loans) is lookingfor a candidate to fill the following vacant post: Loan Consultant Duties will be, but not PLUMBING & HARDWARE -

ESTATE NUMBER 5603/2025

EP Media en Novus Media kan nie bevestig of enige van die geadverteerde diensteofprodukte veilig is vir gebruikofdie verlangde uitwerking of resultaat salhênie. Lesers wordgewaarsku om die adverteerder se getuigskrifte deeglik te oorweeg en na te gaan. EP Media en Novus Media aanvaarhoegenaamd geen aanspreeklikheid ten opsigtevan enigevan die geadverteerdediensteof goederenie.

Notice is hereby givenin termsofRegulation68of the DeedsRegistriesAct, 1937, of the intentionto applyfor the issueofa certified copy of Deed of

IN THE ESTATE OF THE LATE FR EDE RI CK JOHANNES ZEELIE DIED ON 24 SEPTEMBER 2025

IDENTITY NUMBER560728 5029 08 5 ERF 17166 UITENHAGE LOST OR DESTROYED DEED

OP-rekordénvreugdevirChantelle

HANNES SCHOEMAN

MAX Kulati het die naweek in dieBaai ’n droomdebuut as kragoptel-afrigtergemaak toe sy Kariega-student Chantelle du Mont-Nell ’n nuweOP-meestersrekord in diehurksit opgestel het.

Kulati, gewilde rolstoel-liggaamsbouer, is in diesewende hemel.

“Dis ongelooflik. Ek is só trots op Chantelle.Woordekan nie beskryf hoeekophierdie oomblikvoelnie.Syhet alle verwagtinge oortref.Chantelle het almal verras. Ons is sótrots op haar wen, en weet sy kan nóg betervaar

vorentoe. “Haar spanmaats het haar deurgaans aangemoedig en sy het duidelik gewys sy is ’n deelnemer om vorentoedop te hou. “Ek is vandag ’n baie trotse afrigter,”sêhy.

Chantellehet by die Eastern Cape Classic by die Kaap Receife-skool in Somerstrand die oë laat rektoe sy met 90kg geslaag het vir ’n nuwe OP-rekord in die meesters1-afdeling.Met dié poginghet sy waarskynlikook gekwalifiseer vir die Suid-Afrikaanse kampioenskappe in Johannesburg.

Wat Chantelle se rekordnog meer merkwaardig maakisdat sy eersop5 Januarie met gewigte begin oefen het. Sy het in die borsopdruk

met 50kg geslaag en met 120kgindie dooiegewigoptel.

Die jaar kon nieop’ngroter hoogtepunt vir Kulati begin het nie. Hy het ook pas verneem dat hy ’n finalis is virdie Oos-Kaapse Sportman van dieJaar-toekenning in diekategorie virgestremdeatlete wat 13 en 14 Februarie by dieWild Coast Sun by Mbizanagehou word. Kulati het verledejaar by dieselfde geleentheid ’n spesiale toekenning ontvang

“Ja, ek was baie verrasomhierdie oproep te kry. Dis vir my ’n baie groot eer omdat daar talle ander aanspraakmakers is wat net so hard oefen soos ek. As jy aan jou drome glo sal die Heredit vir joumoontlik maak,”sêhy.

Despatchlewertweenuwejukskei-sterre

HANNES SCHOEMAN

DESPATCH het stil-stiltwee van Suid-Afrika se nuwe jukskei-sterre ryker geword.Hulleis Christa Hansen en Lowrence Moore,wat vanjaar na nóghoërhoogtes mik.

Christaistans die dorp se enigste Protea-speler,terwylLowrence ’n SA meesterspeler is.Christa, wat laas jaar ook as die Nelson Mandelabaai-distrik se Polisie-vrou vandie jaar aangewys is, sê Despatch se manspanhet verledejaar diegoue medalje gewen by die SA meesterstoernooi,terwyl die vrouespan die silwermedalje in afdelingDgewenhet

Christasêjukskei op Despatch hetop’nstadium doodgeloop, maardie afgelopevyf jaar is hulle weer behoorlik aan die gang.

“Ons is tans 14 lede wat die afgelopevyf jaar weer beginhet met die jukskeiopDespatch–en ons speel tans onder die naam Nelson Mandelabaai-distrik. Jukskei is ’n sport vir jonk en oud, sê sy. Christa het ook drie susterswat die sportbeoefen.

Susan Schoultz en Erika Gerberspeel by Despatch,terwyl LeanaAlbertyn vir die Eden-distrikspeel

Danisdie Weyer-broers, Hilgard enBraam, ooknog betrokkebydie klub.Hilgardsevrou, Anna,isook een van die klubsespelers.Die Weyers-familie hetoor baie jare al legendestatusindie sport in die OP gekry

Christa sê haar ouersendie Weyerse se ouers was ook bedrewe jukskeispelers. Christa neem al jare lank aan die sport deel. “Ek was sekertussen 6en9jaar toe ek begin het,” sê sy MornéFourie is ’n ander speler wat ook van kleins af jukskeispeel en wie se ouers ook diep spore by die klub getrap het. Despatch het ook laas jaar’nsuksesvolle ope daggehad waar spanne vanOudtshoornenHartenbos kom speel het. Despatch was ookdie afgelope naweek (7 Februarie) in Beaufort-Wes in aksie waar vyf ander provinsies ook deelgeneem het

Christa sê die klub is juis besigomsyledetalle vanjaar te laat groei en daarom kan belangstellendes en skole haar op 074 441 7990 kontak.

Twinsexcelasleaders

Milestone forDP fo coach co

Saturday’s first team cricket match against PearsonHighmarkedaspecial milestonefor Daniel PienaarTechnical High School -Coach ZarierSirkhotte’s350th first-team match. Thisachievement is atestament to the cricket director’senduring commitment andleadership. The team and school community joined in celebration and extended their gratitude to Coach Sirkhotte for hisunwaveringdedication and for ploughing expertise into thecricket programme. PHOTO: SUPPLIED

ThePrefectInductionCeremony of SusannahFourie Primary washeld on Monday,9 February. It wasanextra specialday for the Horne familyofDespatch as both of their twin girls were inductedas prefects. Theparentswere beaming withdoublethe joy and doublethe pride! The proudHorne family are:Kymazelle Horne,Kiara-JadeHorne (Prefect), Jaelynne Horne (Deputy Head Girl) andJPHorne PHOTO: SUPPLIED

KlawerjasUnioncallsonnewandreturningplayers

THEKariega Klawerjas Union is on the hunt for new members to join their weekly card game gatherings, whilst also extending a warm invitation to former players to return to the fold.

MuirCollege achievements

The club emphasises that experienced players play acrucial role in keeping the tradition alive. “The guidance and wisdom of our senior members are absolutely essential for

Meeting every Saturday morningfrom 10:00 to 13:00 in the comfortable lounge area of theJubileeHotel, the cluboffers an ideal settingfor both beginners eager to learn the traditional card game of klawerjas and seasoned players looking to brush up on their skills. “We’re particularly keen to attract young people who mightfancy having agoatthis classic game,” saidunion organisers. “But we’re equally hopeful that some of our former members and long-standing players will consider coming back.”

preservingthe game and restoring Kariega’s proudklawerjas heritage,” they explained.

The welcoming atmosphere at the Jubilee Hotel makes it aperfect venue for newcomerswho might feel intimidated about joining an established group, whilst providing asocial hub for the local klawerjas community.

Anyone interested in joining the Saturday sessions can get in touch with E. Jansen on 082 499 8508 or D. Nicholls on 065 091 2024 for further details

Joshua Seifertqualified in theU/20small bore rifle aggregate junior categoryand wasinvited to attendthe SAMSSA trials in Bloemfontein from 2-7February2026.