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Rumblings cause quite a commotion

City rocked to its roots MARTI WILL

A minor earth termor measuring 3,3 on the Richter scale rattled through Welkom on Friday 7 August.

Congratulating Reﬁlwe Maritui (a Gr. 9 learner at the Wessel Maree High School) on her appointment as the new Junior Lejweleputswa District Commissioner is Col Thenjiwe Florence Mkhumbeni (left) and Sgt Maki Gladys Lethetsa. PHOTO: Supplied

Future leaders’ minds molded MARTI WILL A Gr. 9 learner of the Wessel Maree Secondary School has been chosen as the new Junior Commissioner of the Lejweleputswa District after emerging as the top performer in a district-wide public speaking competition. Refilwe Mariti, representing the police in Odendaalsrus, impressed adjudicators with her public speaking, leadership qualities and understanding of the values required of a professional police official. She will now represent the Lejweleputswa District at the Free State Provincial Junior Commissioner Competition in Bloemfontein, where she will compete against young representatives from other districts. The competition was held at the Welkom police hall on Saturday 1 August and was hosted by the Le-

jweleputswa District Youth Crime Prevention Committee under the theme: “An Upright and Professional Police Official of Today.” A total of 44 learners from police stations across the district took part, delivering speeches before a panel of adjudicators. The top 10 performers were selected to form the Lejweleputswa District Junior Executive Management. They received certificates of recognition, while the top 10 finalists were awarded medals. The top three performers also received floating trophies for their outstanding achievements. Mariti was named Junior District Commissioner, while Tlohonolofatso Mohohlo of the Leseding Technical School, representing the police in Thabong, was appointed Deputy Junior District Commissioner. The other members of the new junior leadership structure are

Aphiwe Dikana of the Rainbow High School, representing the Bultfontein police, as Junior District Visible Policing Coordinator; Zanele Mashiya of the Phehello Secondary School, representing the Odendaalsrus police, as Junior District Detective Coordinator; and Nomalizo Malothane of the Kheleng Secondary School, representing the Hennenman police, as Junior District Operational Command Centre Commander. More than 100 guests, including educators, parents, police members, station youth crime prevention coordinators, district committee members and community stakeholders, attended the event. The Junior Commissioner Programme forms part of efforts to develop young leaders, promote ethical values and strengthen relationships between the police, schools and communities.

The South African National Seismograph Network (SANSN) confirmed the earthquake, that had its epicentre southwest of Odendaalsrus. No injuries or damage to property was reported. Mahlatse Mononela, communications manager at the Council for Geoscience (CGS) in South Africa, encouraged members of the public to record their experiences using available online questionnaires available on the organisation’s website. Noteworthy earthquakes in the Goldfields area include the one on 8 December 1976, when the Tempest Court in Welkom collapsed after an event measuring 5,2 on the Richter Scale. No one was injured or killed when the entire block of flats came down. In January 1989 two people died and four were injured at the President Brand Gold Mine in Welkom after an earthquake measuring 4,5 on the Richter scale. Major structural damage all over the region was reported, and Vista headlines read: “Skudding – The day time stood still.” Many people who were in the Liberty Centre at the time of the quake thought a bomb had exploded, and shops were evacuated. On 27 July 1994, a quake measuring 4,3 again caused time to stand still when the hefty tremor not only did extensive damage to the central business district (CBD) and surrounds, but brought the timepiece in the Clock Tower in the centre of Welkom to a standstill. From October to December 1994, nine quakes measuring from 2,5 to 4,5 were recorded, and in 1995 from April to December, nine quakes measuring from 2,0

to 4,2 shook Welkom. In December 1996 two quakes measuring 3,8 and 4,3 were recorded, and in July 1997 two 4,2 quakes were recorded. On Friday, 23 April 1999, the second quake in 23 years measuring 4,8 struck Welkom. The tremors of this quake were felt as far as Los Angeles in America, and caused extensive damage to buildings in Welkom. In 2009, Vista reported that the Council for Geoscience had measured no less than 161 tremors since January of that year. The smallest was 0,6 (17 February) and the largest 3,8 Local Richter (28 August). In March 2009 a quake measuring 3,5 was recorded, and then on Tuesday, 27 October 2009, another quake measuring 3,5 local Richter shook Welkomites. Of the 161 tremors in 2009, there were 112 quakes measuring from 1,0 to 2,0 local Richter, 39 measuring from 2,0 to 3,0 and five measuring more than 3,0, with the largest at 3,8 local Richter. On Tuesday, 7 August 2014, at exactly 12:22, 90 seconds felt like a lifetime when the ripple effects of an earthquake measuring 5,5 on the Richter Scale rattled through the Goldfields. The epicentre of the quake was 6 km east of Orkney in the North-West and occurred 10 km underground. In the Goldfields only isolated incidents of damage were reported and there were no injuries. Residents of every town in this area felt the quake. It was widespread and was even felt as far north as Botswana. Down south residents of Bloemfontein, Kimberley, and Kuruman reported having felt the quake. On Tuesday, 28 November 2017, at about 07:20, an earthquake measuring 3,1 on the Richter Scale rattled through Welkom, scaring residents in St Helena, Flamingo Park, Jim Fouché Park and Seemeeu Park. Residents from as far as Odendaalsrus and Virginia also experienced the tremor. People felt the earth shake for about six seconds and windows and furniture rattled.

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Vista 2

Donderdag 13 Augustus 2026

Road race countdown started MARTI WILL The countdown to the 24th annual Mediclinic Welkom Vista Road Race is well under way, with the Eskom Athletics Club Free State joining forces with Hollywoodbets representatives for a lively “Hoot and Toot” awareness drive. The outreach brought an energetic taste of what participants and spectators can expect when the community comes together for the much-anticipated road race on Saturday, 22 August . Motorists, motorcyclists, taxis, buses and trucks joined in the fun, filling the streets with a chorus of hoots and toots as supporters helped spread the word about the event. With race day fast approaching, organisers are urging runners, walkers, families, colleagues and businesses to take up the

Hoots, toots and plenty of excitement as road race countdown begins, from the left, front: Khosi Monare (Hollywood Bets), Olwethu Morake (Hollywood Bets), Rethabile Mokhotu (Big heart, Charlotte Moll Haven) and Bakoena Khama

challenge and be part of the celebration. Manual pre-entries will be accepted on Thursday, 20 August, from 13:00 to 18:00, and Friday, 21 August, from 13:00 to 18:00.

Late entries will be accepted on Saturday, 22 August, from 07:30 at Virgin Active Welkom only. Online entries are available through Entry Ninja.

Participants can look forward to plenty of entertainment along the route, with the well-known Capital Sounds broadcasting unit adding music and excitement to the day. There will also be 15 water points, where sponsors, stakeholders and colourful mascots will be on hand to encourage and support participants throughout the race or walk. And there is a special reward waiting at the finish line: every participant will receive a newly designed gold 24th anniversary medal. This year’s event celebrates 24 years of a race presented by the community, for the community, with the 2026 edition honouring women for women during Women’s Month. So lace up, gather your friends, colleagues and business associates, and get ready for a day of running, walking, music, entertainment and community spirit.

DIENSTE BEKENDGESTEL Welkom-inwoners wat met swak munisipale dienslewering sukkel, het nou toegang tot ’n nuwe diensplatform wat deur AfriForum as alternatief vir sekere basiese munisipale dienste bekendgestel is. Die organisasie het sy AfriForum Dienste-platform in Welkom bekendgestel. Dit bied vullisverwydering, herwinningsdienste en watervoorsieningoplossings aan inwoners wat volgens AfriForum toenemend deur die Matjhabeng-munisipaliteit se diensleweringsprobleme geraak word. Matjhabeng worstel reeds jare lank met uitdagings rondom basiese dienslewering. Die munisipaliteit is sedert 2024 onder grondwetlike ingryping ingevolge artikel 139 van die Grondwet nadat die Vrystaatse Hooggeregshof die provinsiale regering gelas het om in te gryp. Die ingryping sluit ook parlementêre toesig in. Volgens Christa Ikking, AfriForum se distrikskoördineerder vir die Hoogland, het inwoners nog nie noemenswaardige verbetering in dienslewering ervaar nie. “Ondanks die munisipaliteit se gepubliseerde weeklikse vullisverwyderingsroosters word inwoners gereeld met hope vullis gekonfronteer wat vir weke lank nie verwyder word nie,” sê sy. AfriForum moedig inwoners van Welkom en omliggende gebiede aan om by die diensplatform aan te sluit om die uitbreiding van die dienste te ondersteun. Inwoners kan Ikking by 066 486 7612 kontak of die AfriForum Dienste-webwerf besoek.

Optrede geëis weens gesondheidskrisis in Matjhabeng Die rioolkrisis in die Matjhabeng-munisipaliteit het in ’n ernstige gesondheidskrisis ontaard. Riool vloei in natuurlike hulpbronne, strate en inwoners se eiendomme en veroorsaak siekte-uitbrekings. Daar was die afgelope twee weke gevalle waar jong kinders vermoedelik as gevolg hiervan siek geword het. In een geval het vier patogene voorgekom: Rotavirus A, Campylobacter, EAEC (E. coli) en Cryptosporidium.

“Die teenwoordigheid van hierdie patogene dui waarskynlik op besoedelde water en ’n ernstige gesondheidsrisiko,” sê Manie Pretorius, VF Plus-raadslid in Matjhabeng. Hy sê die munisipaliteit se rioolinfrastruktuur is jare lank nie in stand gehou nie en inwoners word blootgestel aan menslike afval wat vrylik vloei. Die VF Plus het in ’n skrywe, gerig aan die Vrystaatse departement van samewerkende

regering en tradisionele sake (Cogta) en die munisipaliteit, dringende stappe geëis. Die menseregtekommissie (MRK) het in sy 2024-verslag oor die stand van plaaslike regering in die Vrystaat bevind die munisipaliteit tree in stryd met die Grondwet en omgewingswetgewing op. Die VF Plus meen dit is tyd vir optrede teen munisipale amptenare wat bydra tot die skending van grondwetlike regte.

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MARTI WILL A 35-year-old foreign national has been arrested after members of the Welkom K9 unit seized illicit cigarettes valued at an estimated R1,2 million during a crime prevention operation on the R30. According to police, the arrest took place at about 09:10 on Thursday 6 August, while officers were conducting crime-combating patrols on the R30 route between Welkom and Odendaalsrus. The police noticed a suspicious white Toyota minibus travelling along the route and stopped the vehicle for inspection. After obtaining permission to search the vehicle, officers discovered 89 master crates containing suspected illicit cigarettes. Preliminary investigations confirmed that the cigarettes were counterfeit. The entire consignment, with an

A 35-year-old foreign national was arrested and a consignment of illicit cigarettes valued at more than R1 million was conﬁscated during an operation on the R30. PHOTO: Supplied

estimated street value of R1,2 million, was confiscated along with the Toyota minibus, which is believed to have been used in the commission of the offence.

The suspect was arrested on charges of possession of suspected counterfeit goods and for allegedly contravening the Immigration Act.

Police raid yields arrest SUSPECT NABBED A 59-year-old man was arrested after being found in possession of an unlicensed firearm, identity documents (IDs), bank cards, and a large amount of cash during a police raid at his home in Kutlwanong. The arrest followed an intelligence-driven operation by members of the Welkom Public Order Police (POP) on 18 July. According to the police, officers acted on information that a man was in possession of an unlicensed firearm at a residence in the K4 section of Kutlwanong. On arriving at the property, they found a man matching the description provided by informants. He identified himself as the owner of the house and gave officers permission to search the premises. During the search, a handgun and live ammunition was recovered. Several South African IDs, bank cards and a substantial amount of cash was also found to be concealed in a bedroom. Preliminary investigations indicate that the suspect is allegedly operating as an unregistered money lender and he is suspected of unlawfully retaining clients’ IDs and bank cards. The man has been charged with possession of an unlicensed firearm and contravening the National Credit Act. He is expected to appear in the Odendaalsrus Magistrates’ Court soon.

The police have arrested a 29-year-old man in connection with the murder and rape of a seven-year-old girl whose body was discovered beneath a bed in a shack in the Phahameng location on Sunday 9 August. The police were called to the scene and directed to a shack where they found the motionless body of the young girl. She had sustained injuries to her neck and her clothing had been disturbed. Emergency medical personnel pronounced her dead at the scene. The girl was reportedly discovered by her 14-year-old sister, who noticed a hand protruding from underneath the bed. She immediately alerted their father, who was in the main house, before the police were called. Investigators launched an immediate search for the suspect. The 29-yearold man was subsequently traced to a nearby farm and arrested on allegations of murder and rape.

Donderdag 13 Augustus 2026

3 Vista

Platform needs a boost for full effect Young performers from preschools across Kutlwanong and surrounding communities will have the opportunity to take centre stage later this year when the Barney Play Ground non-profit organisation (NPO) – located in the Matjhabeng Local Municipality – hosts its inaugural Kutlwanong’s Got Talent competition.

Vier publikasie ná baie harde werk en toewyding Die 15-jarige Ruzé Lombaard (middel) ’n leerder aan die Hoërskool Henties Cilliers, het op Saterdag 8 Augustus haar eerste boek, Maanplante, by Krapkas in Virginia bekend gestel. Sy het deur Amzon haar boek gepubliseer, en die eerste 100 eksemplare self gedruk. Die druk en publikasie van die boek was ’n spanpoging – Ruzé en haar ma, Christelle (regs), en haar ouma Theresa Rothman (links) het geld bymekaar gemaak deur bak en harde werk. Sy het reeds twee ander boeke klaar geskryf. Dié boeke, Beneath the Waves en The Cursed Town, sal binnekort gepubliseer en gedruk word, sé sy. Vir meer inligting oor die boeke, en veral Maanplante, bel Christelle by 082 085 3935. FOTO: Marti Will

Penning her life story Local celebrity author Palesa Mohale launched her self-published book, Unbroken: Grace in the Fire – A Journey of Faith, Pain, and Purpose, at Billy G in the Goldﬁelds Casino on Sunday 9 August. Well-known motivational speaker Dina Grace Moloja (Princess Dee) introduced the novel to a packed audience on Women’s Day. From the left are, front: Mathabo Hlalele (MEC for Local Development) and Mohale; back: Moloja, Keabetswe Tsotetsi, Keabetswe Khetsi and Puleng Tsotsetsi. PHOTO: Marti Will

The event, scheduled for Friday 9 October, aims to celebrate the creativity and potential of young children by providing them with a platform to showcase their talents in a safe, supportive and encouraging environment. The venue will be announced at a later stage. Children will be invited to perform in a variety of categories. These include music, dance, poetry and other creative acts that will allow them to express themselves in a public space while building confidence and developing valuable life skills. According to the organisers, the vision behind Kutlwanong’s Got Talent is to nurture every child’s unique abilities while encouraging them to express their emotions through creativity. The initiative also seeks to inspire positive development from an early age by recognising and celebrating the talents of young people within the community. Barney Play Ground believes that opportunities such as these can have a lasting impact on children’s self-esteem and personal growth, while bringing families and the wider community together in support of local talent. To ensure the success of the event, the organisation is appealing to businesses, community organisations and individuals for assistance.

The organiser, Pulane Tlhone. PHOTO: Supplied

Support in the form of financial sponsorships, products, services or equipment donations will all help make the event a memorable experience for the participating children. “Your generosity will have a meaningful impact on the lives of these young participants by encouraging them to pursue their dreams and develop their talents,” the organisers said. Community members who would like to support the initiative or require more information can contact the organiser, Pulane Tlhone, on 071 786 4675.

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Vista 4

Donderdag 13 Augustus 2026

Hope for the week

Finding restoration by returning to God Through seasons of change, uncertainty and challenge, our community has continued to demonstrate resilience, compassion and hope. Yet even the strongest among us can experience moments when joy fades, purpose feels distant, or life seems to have lost its direction. King David understood those moments. In Psalm 51:12–13, he prayed, “Restore to me the joy of your salvation and grant me a willing spirit, to sustain me. Then I will teach transgressors your ways, so that sinners will turn back to you.” His prayer reminds us that restoration is more than recovering what has been lost—it is about being renewed from the inside out. The Hebrew word for "restore" is shuv, meaning to return or to turn back. It points to a simple but powerful truth: restoration begins by returning to God. It is in His presence

that broken hearts find healing, weary souls discover strength, and lives are given new purpose. Our circumstances may not change overnight, but when we build our lives on God's Word, we find a foundation that remains firm through every season. His Word brings wisdom when we need direction, peace when we face uncertainty, and hope when the future seems unclear. The story of King Josiah reminds us that when God's Word is restored to its rightful place, lives and communities are transformed. Hearts change, families are strengthened, and hope begins to flourish again. No matter where you find yourself today, no matter your past or your present circumstances, God's invitation remains the same: return to Him. His desire is to restore joy where there has been sorrow, hope where there has been disappointment, and peace where there has been uncertainty.Restoration is always possible. Llewelyn Wulff of Life Church Welkom

Besoekers só verwelkom MARTI WILL

By die ingang na die Goldfields Mall is kliënte vir ’n hele week aangenaam verras en verwelkom deur die vriendelike Boeta (9) en sy eienaar, Marius van Wyk van Bothaville. Vista het op Donderdag 30 Augustus by Boeta gekuier en sy storie gehoor. “Pa” Marius sê hy het Boeta as ’n piepklein hondjie gekry. “Eers was Boeta my vrou Lilly se ‘baba,’ maar nadat hy op 11 maande ernstige katgriep oorleef het, het hy my skaduwee geword en gaan orals saam met my. Ons is onafskeidbaar,” sê Van Wyk. Die Van Wyk-egpaar is gereelde besoekers in Wel-

kom en stal gereeld uit by kunsmarkte en vlooimarkte in die kontrei. Hulle is ook al die afgelope drie jaar by die winkelsentrum en doen personalisering op hout, leer, metaal, bekers, bottels en geskenkpapier. Hy sê Boeta gaan orals saam met hom, selfs kerk toe en ook na restaurante, die see, uitstappies en ook inkopietogte na die dorp. Van Wyk sê hy sien veral uit na Desember wanneer hy en Boeta al ’n bekende gesig by die sentrum se Kersmark is. “Dit is seker nou al die afgelope drie jaar Marius van Wyk van Bothaville, en sy getroue hondekind, wat ons hier saam met Boeta, is gereelde besoekers by die Goldﬁelds Mall in Welkom. ’n groepie van 14 by die FOTO: Marti Will Kersmark staan.”

Dagboek REDAKTEUR Marti Will

057-357-1304 marti.will@novusmedia.co.za ADVERTISMENTS 057-357-1304 TEAM LEADER Elrina de Beer elrina.debeer@novusmedia.co.za CLASSIFIEDS Michelle Walker michelle.walker@novusmedia.co.za MAIN BODY Amanda-Louise Nel amanda-louise.nel@novusmedia.co.za Ryno Kirsten ryno.kirsten@novusmedia.co.za OMBUDSMAN Kontak Vista se ombudsman oor klagtes. Stuur alle klagtes, navrae of voorstelle oor die inhoud van die koerant aan ons ombudsman, George Claassen, by 021-851-3232 of na mediaombud@novusmedia.co.za. Geen redaksionele materiaal of advertensie mag gereproduseer word sonder die toestemming van Novus Media nie (artikel 12(7), Wet op Kopiereg 1978). Vista proudly displays the “FAIR” stamp of the Press Council of South Africa, indicating our commitment to adhere to the Code of Ethics for Print and online media, which prescribes that our reportage is truthful, accurate and fair. Should you wish to lodge a complaint about our news coverage, do so on presscouncil.org.za or email the complaint to enquiries@ombudsman.org.za. Contact the Press Council on 011-484-3612.

19 AUGUST

29 AUGUST

The Goldﬁelds Hospice Association holds its annual general meeting at 18:00 in the Mediclinic Welkom boardroom. Members are invited. Those interested in the work of the association are welcome to attend.

The St Dominic's College Golf Day is hosted the Oppenheimer Golf Club. No handicap allowance applies. Non-golfers to play off, men 0 handicap, women 9 handicap. The format is IPS. It costs R340 per player, and R1 340 per fourball, halfway house included in green fees. Tee-off from 08:00. Book at 057 353 2131. To sponsor a tee or a green contact John Bell at jbell@dominic. co.za. Sponsership costs are: Tee or Green at R2000 or Tee and Green at R2 500.

28 AUGUST For one week only, André Rieu's 2026 Summer Concert: Viva Maastricht will be performed at the Alpha Cinema in Welkom. English and Dutch will be spoken during presentation of the concert. All tickets to attend the event cost R70. Dial 076 3600 948.

29 AUGUST The Day 2 Night event is hosted at the

Hentie Cilliers High School. This is an 80 km circuit event with a team of four members; 12 hours for the team to complete 80 km. The track is a 1 km circuit route.

24 SEPTEMBER

Casino. The theme is all white. Enquiries on WhatsApp 071 120 2556.

PENSIONER MEETINGS

26 SEPTEMBER

The last Anglo Gold Ashanti pension and medical aid meeting is scheduled in Welkom for 27 August. The are the Goudrif (Huis Oranje) in Gimnasium Street (10:00 to 11:00), and the Welkom Retirement Village in Peridot Street (12:00 to 13:00). Call Ronnie Barlow-Jones on 083 308 5530 or 083 333 6667 for more information.

One night with the king, a restoration worship experience’s red carpet starts at 17:00 and the event at 18:00 at the Goldﬁelds

Stuur dagboekinskrywings na marti. will@novusmedia.co.za. Dit word gratis in die koerant se dagboek geplaas.

The Welkom Netball Club will host the Glow in the dark games. Get ready for an unique netball experience. Keep an eye for more details on the club's Facebook page.

Letters

Lejweleputswa Municipality in urgent need of intervention Tebogo Chauke, concerned resident: The state of the Lejweleputswa District Municipality has become a growing source of concern for residents, employees, and stakeholders who expect accountable and effective local government. Reports from within the institution

paint a picture of instability, declining governance, and an administration that appears to be struggling to fulfil its constitutional mandate. Among the most disturbing allegations are claims that threatening anonymous notes have been left in municipal offices, apparently intended to intimidate employees who seek to uphold professionalism

and accountability. If these allegations are true, they represent a deeply unhealthy workplace culture that discourages transparency and undermines ethical governance. Equally concerning are allegations that security cameras, installed to protect municipal property and maintain accountability, have at times been deliberately switched off.

Leadership is another area where many observers believe the municipality has fallen short. There is a compelling argument that provincial authorities should assess whether the municipality can continue to fulfil its obligations. Restoring effective governance should be a priority for all those entrusted with serving the public. – Letter shortened

Donderdag 13 Augustus 2026

5 Vista

Overgrown trees spark safety fears MARTI WILL Concerns are mounting over a growing backlog in tree maintenance across Odendaalsrus, with residents reporting that overgrown trees and vegetation are creating safety hazards, damaging infrastructure and disrupting electricity supply. The issue has been raised with the Matjhabeng Local Municipality after numerous complaints from residents about trees that have not been trimmed or maintained for extended periods. According to concerns submitted by the Democratic Alliance (DA), some residents have been waiting years for municipal intervention. In one reported case, a resident has allegedly waited almost a decade for a tree to be pruned. Residents say overgrown trees are obstructing access to homes, encroaching onto private properties and public spaces, and posing risks to both pedestrians and motorists. Branches growing into overhead power lines have also reportedly contributed to recurring electricity outages in some areas. Apart from affecting electricity supply, unmanaged

Prioritising trees that pose an immediate danger to residents or interfere with electricity infrastructure must be given attention. PHOTO: Marti Will

vegetation can damage municipal infrastructure, obstruct visibility on roads and create additional safety risks during severe weather. Questions have also been raised about the capacity of the municipality’s Parks and Recreation Department. It has been alleged that the department is understaffed and lacks sufficient equipment to carry out routine maintenance,

although the municipality has not yet commented on these claims. The DA said it intends submitting formal questions to the Matjhabeng Council, requesting information on the extent of the maintenance backlog and the municipality’s plans to address it. Among the measures being proposed are: Conducting an audit of all outstanding tree trimming and pruning requests. Prioritising trees that pose an immediate danger to residents or interfere with electricity infrastructure. Ensuring the Parks and Recreation Department has adequate staff, equipment and operational resources. Publishing a scheduled maintenance programme so residents know when work is planned. Improving response times to service requests and keeping affected communities informed of progress. Residents have called for routine maintenance to be prioritised before overgrown trees become safety hazards or cause further disruption to essential services. NovaNews has approached Matjhabeng Local Municipality for comment. Their response will be published once received.

Die NG kerk Bedelia vier in 2026 sy 70ste bestaansjaar.

Heidi en ds. Philip McLaren, leraar van die NG kerk Bedelia. FOTO’S: Verskaf

Kerk se sewe dekades dankbaar gevier Die NG kerk Bedelia het op Sondag 9 Augustus sy 70ste bestaansjaar met ’n dankdiens gevier, waartydens teruggekyk is op sewe dekades van geloof, diens en gemeenskapsbou. Volgens ds. Philip McLaren is die mylpaal ’n geleentheid om te besin oor die gemeente se geskiedenis en die mense wat oor die jare hul bydrae gelewer het.

“Ons kyk in dankbaarheid terug op sewe dekades waarin die Here sy trou en genade op besonderse wyse bewys het.” “Sedert die gemeente se stigting het geslagte gelowiges hier ’n geestelike tuiste gevind en saam gebou aan ’n geloofsgemeenskap wat die evangelie uitleef en die gemeenskap dien.” Die viering bied ook ge-

leentheid om die toekoms met hoop en verwagting te beskou – lidmate, oudlidmate en almal wat deur die jare deel van die gemeente se verhaal was, is genooi om die dag by te woon. “Dit was ’n betekenisvolle geleentheid van herinnering, dankbaarheid en hernuwing. Ons gee aan God die eer vir die mylpaal en sê dankie vir 70 jaar van sy onwankelbare trou.”

POLICE OFFICERS HONED FOR GBVF DUTIES Members of the SAPS in Thabong have received specialised training aimed at improving the quality of support provided to victims of gender-based violence and femicide (GBVF). The workshop on 17 July focused on the SAPS Gender-Based Violence and Femicide Support

Service Blueprint, which sets out standards and procedures police officials must follow when assisting victims of GBVF. Officers were reminded of their responsibilities as ﬁrst responders and the role they play throughout criminal investigations. Facilitators stressed their duty to

provide a professional, accessible and victim-centred service to survivors of crime. Representatives of the Thabong Community Policing Forum (CPF) and the Thabong Youth Crime Prevention structure expressed their support for the initiative.

NOTICE OF APPLICATION IN TERMS OF SECTION 25(2) AND SECTION 40 OF THE NATIONAL WATER ACT, NO. 36 OF 1998 – PERMANENT TRANSFER OF LAWFUL WATER USE Notice is given in terms of section 41(4) of the National Water Act, 1998 for the Water Use License application in terms of section 40 of the Act. Application title: Water use license application for the permanent surrender and transfer in terms of Section 25(2) and Section 40 of the National Water Act no. 36 of 1998 of 160 560 m³ lawful water use per annum to Portion 44 of the Farm Dayton 560, District Theunissen, Free State Province. Application description: Water use license application for the permanent surrender and transfer in terms of Section 25(2) and Section 40 of the National Water Act no. 36 of 1998 of 160 560 m³ per annum lawful water use: FROM: The remaining Extent of the Farm Laaste Lach 3, District Theunissen, Free State Province; TO: Portion 44 of the Farm Dayton 560, District Theunissen, Free State Province. Both properties fall within the Sand-Vet Users Association's Management Area and are managed by the scheme. Inquiries / objections must be lodged in writing or verbally if unable to write to the consultants below: Consultant: Michelle Schoonraad Tel: Email: Postal address:

053 444 1886 michelle@jacncoetzer.co.za P.O. Box 1, Hoopstad, 9479

The water use license application will be submitted to the Department of Water and Sanitation. To ensure that you are identiﬁed as an interested and/or a�ected party, please submit your name, contact information and interest in the matter, in writing or verbally to the contact person mentioned above within 60 days of this notice. NM10069110-VI130826

NOTICE OF APPLICATION IN TERMS OF SECTION 25(2) AND SECTION 40 OF THE NATIONAL WATER ACT, NO. 36 OF 1998 – PERMANENT TRANSFER OF LAWFUL WATER USE Notice is given in terms of section 41(4) of the Act. Application title: Water use license application for the permanent surrender and transfer in terms of Section 25(2) and Section 40 of the National Water Act no. 36 of 1998 of 160 560 m³ lawful water use per annum to Portion 44 of the Farm Dayton 560, District Theunissen, Free State Province. Application description: Water use license application for the permanent surrender and transfer in terms of Section 25(2) and Section 40 of the National Water Act no. 36 of 1998 of 160 560 m³ per annum lawful water use: FROM: Portion 4 (of 1) of the Farm Ostend 90, District Theunissen, Free State Province; TO: Portion 44 of the Farm Dayton 560, District Theunissen, Free State Province. Both properties fall within the Sand-Vet Users Association's Management Area and are managed by the scheme. Inquiries / objections must be lodged in writing or verbally if unable to write to the consultants below: Consultant: Michelle Schoonraad Tel: Email: Postal address:

053 444 1886 michelle@jacncoetzer.co.za P.O. Box 1, Hoopstad, 9479

Vista 6

Donderdag 13 Augustus 2026

7 Vista

Vista 8

Donderdag 13 Augustus 2026

13/08/2026 - 16/08/2026 • 2 DEALS PER CUSTOMER • WHILE STOCKS LAST Fresh Beef T-Bone / Club / Rump On Bone Steak (Class A)

MAMA’S Russians Assorted

4kg

BOXER Fresh Classic Boerewors

Fresh Bulk Pork Packs (Pre-packed)

Potatoes

Carrots

BUY TWO B

20 2 x 1kg

149

4kg

GOLDEN RAY IQF Mixed Chicken Portions

loose serve per kg

99 loose serve per kg

per kg

Frozen Hake

Fresh Ground Beef (Flavoured)

Frozen Chicken Wings

Green Pepper Count Bag

99 7kg

Butternut Family Pocket

199

99 5kg

Crumbed / Grilled GO Meal Chicken Bucket (15 Piece)

15pcs

loose serve per kg

Chicken Sizzler / Plain Russian Roll

ALBANY Superior Sliced Brown Bread

1399

Imitation Cream Ready Made Cake

99 loose serve per kg

each

ALL GOLD Smooth Apricot Jam 900g, BLACK CAT Peanut Butter Assorted 400g & STORK Country Spread 40% Fat Spread Tub 1kg

900g

loose serve per kg

8499 5499 per pocket

7kg

Traditional / Chocolate Queen Cakes 10’s

Plain

Chicken

149 9 each

CLOVER Medium Cream Maas

Onions

5kg

BUY TWO B

each

BEST COOK French / Chicken Polony

99 each

Large Eggs

400g

700g

BUY TWO B

54 2 x 2kg

BBUY THREE

39 3 x 700g

1kg

BUY ALL B

99 44 per combo

99 2kg each

PRICES VALID AT BOXER NORTH WEST & FREE STATE STORES ONLY

Range May Vary. Prices include VAT where applicable. Boxer will attempt to have sufﬁcient advertised stock available to meet our customers anticipated demand, however if we still run out of stock we will obtain the stock or we will offer you a reasonable alternative. Boxer reserves the right to limit quantities per customer. Boxer takes utmost care to ensure that all promotion leaﬂets are correct. If, however, in the unlikely occurrence of a mistake, we will display a notice in-store with all the correct details. E.&O.E. Terms & Conditions apply.

30’s

BOXER148382

Donderdag 13 Augustus 2026

9 Vista

13/08/2026 - 16/08/2026 • 2 DEALS PER CUSTOMER • WHILE STOCKS LAST

COCA-COLA Original Taste Soft Drink

BOKOMO Weet-Bix Wholegrain Wheat Biscuits

BEST COOK Instant Noodles Multipack Assorted 5’s

GLEN Tagless Tea Bags

99 900g

BEST COOK Baked Beans

150

100’s

FATTI’S & MONI’S Macaroni / Spaghetti

10 x (5 x 65g)

120

6 x 2L

TASTIC Long Grain Parboiled Rice

2kg

6 x 410g

2.5kg

2kg

150

BRUTAL FRUIT Assorted Cans 2 x (6 x 500ml)

BUY TWO B

190

BUY ALL

3 x 500g

GOLDEN DELIGHT Premium Grade Long Grain White Parboiled Thai Rice 2kg, IWISA Super Maize Meal 2.5kg & SNOWFLAKE Cake Wheat Flour 2.5kg

BUY TWO B

750g

BUY ANY THREE B

BUY SIX B

150

CASTLE Lite Assorted Cans 2 x (6 x 500ml)

ALL GOLD Tomato Sauce 700ml, CROSSE & BLACKWELL Tangy Mayonnaise 750g & BEST COOK Chutney Assorted 460g

700ml

BUY SIX B

BUY TEN B

4TH STREET Wine Assorted 5L

ITAU Super White Super Maize Meal

460g

SAVANNA Assorted NRB 2x (6 x 500ml)

per combo

GOLDEN RAY Cooking Oil

12.5kg

BUY TWO B

275

2.5kg

PRICES VALID AT SELECTED BOXER LIQUORS STORES ONLY Alcohol Not for Sale to Persons Under the Age of 18. Drink Responsibly.

BBUY THREE

BUY ALL

12.5kg

99 4L

per combo

3 x 2kg

PAMPERS Active Baby Pants 35’s / 40’s / 48’s / 56’s / Disposable Nappies Value Pack 42’s / 50’s / 58’s / 60’s

LIFEBUOY Bath Soap Assorted

BBUY THREE

per pack

99 125ml

750ml 750ml

750ml

SUNLIGHT Dishwashing Liquid 750ml, DOMESTOS Multipurpose Thick Bleach Cleaner 750ml & HANDY ANDY Multipurpose Cleaning Cream 750ml

BUY ALL

BBUY ANY TWO

AQUAFRESH Complete Care Whitening XL Family Pack Toothpaste

PLAYBOY / PLAYGIRL / SHOWER TO SHOWER Roll On Assorted

30 3 x 175g

129

75 69 119 99

SUNLIGHT Laundry Soap

BUY TWO B

36 2 x 500g

SUNLIGHT Hand Washing Powder

3kg

per combo

2 x 50ml

VASELINE Blue Seal Pure Petroleum Jelly

99 450ml

TWINSAVER Luxury 2 Ply 200 Sheets Toilet Tissue Rolls 9’s

99 per pack

PRICES VALID AT BOXER NORTH WEST & FREE STATE STORES ONLY

99 3kg

BOXER148383

Vista

Donderdag 13 Augustus 2026

BOUWERK & KONSTRUKSIE 1801

J & B KONSTRUKSIE Ons spesialiseer in grasdakke, verf en bouwerk, asook algemene onderhoudswerk. Kontak Brendan 0724042697 0727415047 HERSTELWERK 1818

ALLERLEI 1845

K B CONSTRUCTION Electrical and coc, Plumbing, House maintenance, Steel work, Electronic security. Call 0769052369 or 0760926617 VOERTUIE ONS SOEK VIR KONTANT / EN ONS KOOP EN VERKOOP TRAILERS EN CANOPIES. 063 158 7293 VOERTUIE GESOEK OM TE KOOP 3075

SOEK motors, motorwrakke & onderdele om te koop vir kontant. Enige fabrikaat, enige toestand. 076 493 3029.

BETREKKINGS 3600

BETREKKINGS GESOEK 3670

I AM LOOKING FOR sleep-out domestic work 5-7 days a week. Phone 0786196214.

REGSKENNISGEWINGS & TENDERS

Boedel Wyle: B L Stevenson Boedelnommer: 004234/2026

Lost Title Deed: Deed of Transfer T17866/2004

VERLORE DOKUMENTE 4040

Lost or destroyed Deed: Deed of Transfer T10604/2018 FORM JJJ LOST OR DESTROYED DEED Notice is hereby given in terms of Regulation 68(1) of the Deeds Registries Act, 1937, of the intention to apply for the issue of a certified copy of DEED OF TRANSFER T10604/2018 passed by PETRUS JOHANNES STEENKAMP, Identity Number 770329 5223 087 in favor of ANNA MAGRIETHA STEENKAMP, Identity Number 501114 0016 082 in respect of certain 50% SHARE OF ERF 451, BOTHAVILLE, EXTENSION 1, DISTRICT BOTHAVILLE, PROVINCE FREE STATE which has been lost or destroyed. All interested persons having objection to the issue of such copy are hereby required to lodge the same in writing with the Registrar of Deeds at BLOEMFONTEIN within two weeks from the date of the publication of this notice. DATED at BOTHAVILLE this 5th day of AUGUST 2026. A P P L I C A N T : CONVEYANCER: LILIAN RAY BRINK CAREY & BOTHA INCORPORATED 13 PRESIDENT STREET BOTHAVILLE 9660 E-MAIL: aktes@careybotha.co.za TEL: 056 515 2129 ( M E V L R BRINK/maria/S1757)

!%"#&$ NOTICE IN TERMS OF REGULATION 68 OF T H E D E E D S REGISTRIES ACT, 1937, IN RESPECT OF A LOST TITLE DEED Notice is hereby given in terms of regulation 68 of the Deeds Registries Act, 1937, of the intention to apply for the issue of a certified copy of DEED OF TRANSFER T17866/2004 passed by HARMONY GOLD MINING COMPANY L I M I T E D N o . 1950/038232/06 in favor of DINGAAN GEORGE MOHAPI, Identity Number: 6512155542085 AND TSELANE PATRICIA MOHAPI, Identity Number: 7008180616084 in respect of ERF 4062 VIRGINIA (EXTENSION 5), DISTRICT VENTERSBURG, PROVINCE FREE STATE IN EXTENT 1 048 (ONE THOUSAND AND FORTY EIGHT) SQUARE METRES HELD BY DEED OF TRANSFER NUMBER T17866/2004. All interested persons having objection to the issue of such copy are hereby required to lodge the same in writing with the Registrar of Deeds at Bloemfontein within two weeks from the date of publication of this notice. Dated at Welkom this 31st day of July 2026. CONVEYANCER CATHERINA HELENA PRELLER PRELLER INGELYF 323 STATEWAY JABEZ BUILDING 2ND FLOOR WELKOM 9460 Tel: 057-353 3173 Email: cpreller@legalcom.co.za

KENNISGEWING AAN KREDITEURE IN BESTORWE BOEDELS

'("//7#1!%$&*"5/%17

Lost or destroyed Deed: Deed of Transfer T27816/2009 FORM JJJ LOST OR DESTROYED DEED

BOEDELKENNISGEWINGS

Notice is hereby given in terms of Regulation 68(1) of the Deeds Registries Act, 1937, of the intention to apply for the issue of a certified copy of DEED OF TRANSFER T27816/2009 passed by JULIUS HENRY PAASCH, Identity Number 551010 5012 085 AND SUSANNA CORNELIA PAASCH, Identity Number 570909 0048 084 in favor of PETRUS JOHANNES STEENKAMP Identity Number 770329 5223 087 AND ANNA MAGRIETHA STEENKAMP, Identity Number 501114 0016 082 in respect of certain 50% SHARE OF ERF 451, BOTHAVILLE, EXTENSION 1, DISTRICT BOTHAVILLE, PROVINCE FREE STATE which has been lost or destroyed. All interested persons having objection to the issue of such copy are hereby required to lodge the same in writing with the Registrar of Deeds at BLOEMFONTEIN within two weeks from the date of the publication of this notice. DATED at BOTHAVILLE this 5th day of AUGUST 2026. A P P L I C A N T : CONVEYANCER: LILIAN RAY BRINK CAREY & BOTHA INCORPORATED 13 PRESIDENT STREET BOTHAVILLE 9660 E-MAIL: aktes@careybotha.co.za TEL: 056 515 2129 ( M E V L R BRINK/maria/S1757)

Boedel Wyle: M C Lubbe Boedelnommer: 000919/2026 BOEDELKENNISGEWING

BOEDELS: KREDITEURE EN DEBITEURE

4201

In die boedel van wyle MARIA CATHARINA LUBBE (IDENTITEITSNOMMER: 460712 0057 086) ongetroud wat oorlede is op 02 DESEMBER 2025. BOEDELNOMMER: 000919/2026 Krediteure en Debiteure word hiermee versoek om hulle eise in te dien en hulle skulde te betaal binne 'n tydperk van 30 (DERTIG) dae gereken van datum van verskyning van hierdie advertensie af. BRINK ROUX INGELYF BREDENKAMPSTRAAT 44 WESSELSBRON 9680 E-POS: marilize@brinkroux.co.za

#'!!"&$'%"!$

GENERAL & HOME SERVICES

-29:;,+.3)6)480

Alle persone met vorderinge teen ondervermelde boedel moet dit binne 30 dae (of soos aangedui) vanaf datum van publikasie hiervan by die betrokke Eksekuteur inlewer. Boedelnommer: 004234/2026 Meesterskantoor: BLOEMFONTEIN Van: STEVENSON Voorname: BRIAN LESLIE Geboortedatum: 1949-10-11 Identiteitsnommer: 491011 5045 08 6 Laaste Adres: NR. 3 DIE V L A K T E , CAMPBELLSTRAAT 47, JAN CILLIERSPARK, WELKOM Datum Oorlede: 2025-10-19 Naam en adres van eksekuteur of gemagtigde agent: C A H J VAN VUUREN, P/A VAN VUUREN PROKUREURS, JOSIASSTRAAT 114, ODENDAALSRUS. ADVERTEERDER EN ADRES: V A N V U U R E N PROKUREURS JOSIASSTRAAT 114 ODENDAALSRUS 9480 (VERW: CVV/ab/1926-25)

BOEDEL WYLE: P P STEYN BOEDELNOMMER: 3918/2026 BOEDELKENNISGEWING

Estate Late: H Brand Estate Number: 4984/2026 N O T I C E T O CREDITORS IN DECEASED ESTATES

In die boedel van wyle PETRUS PAULUS STEYN, IDENTITEITSNOMMER: 430321 5015 086 EN ANNA MAGARITHA FRANSINA STEYN, IDENTITEITSNOMMER: 470905 0019 084 BOEDELNOMMER: 3918/2026 Van: WOONSTEL 28, HOOPSTAD TEHUIS VIR BEJAARDES, HOOPSTAD, 9479 KREDITEURE EN DEBITEURE IN BOGEMELDE BOEDEL WORD VERSOEK OM HUL VORDERINGE IN TE LEWER EN HUL SKULD TE BETAAL BY DIE KANTOOR VAN DIE ONDERGETEKENDE BINNE 'N TYDPERK VAN 30 DAE VANAF 14 AUGUSTUS 2026. Naam en adres van Agent JAC N COETZER ING POSBUS 1 HOOPSTAD 9479 Tel: 053- 444 1886 VERWYSING: Leanie Du Plessis/F E Faber

All persons having claims a g a i n s t t h e under-mentioned estate must lodge it with the Executor concerned within 30 days (or as indicated) from date of publication hereof. Province: FREE STATE Estate Number: 4984/2026 Surname: BRAND First Names: HENDRIK Date of Birth: 1952-02-28 I D N u m b e r : 5202285065089 Last Address: 15 HARKER STREET, VENTERSBURG Date of Death: 2026-05-13 Master's Office: BLOEMFONTEIN First Names of Surviving Spouse: HEILA MAGDALENA Surname of Surviving Spouse: BRAND Date of Birth of Surviving Spouse: 1952-04-11 ID Number of Surviving Spouse: 5204110082081 Name of Executor or Authorized Agent: HEILA MAGDALENA BRAND Address of Executor or Authorized Agent: 40 STEYN STREET, HENNENMAN, 9445 ADVERTISER NAME: B A D E N H O R S T ATTORNEYS ADVERTISER ADDRESS: 40 STEYN STREET HENNENMAN 9445 ADVERTISER E-MAIL: b a d e n h o r s t @badenhorstprok.co.za A D V E R T I S E R TELEPHONE: 057 5731114 ( R E F : BADENHORST/cn/B971)

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Donderdag 13 Augustus 2026

1 1 Vista

Unique Blinds

ALL TYPES OF PAVING

CONTACT SALVI 083 306 1336 082 374 6006

TEL 057 352 3176

244 STATEWAY WELKOM W/A 074 465 0276 - CELL 082 322 9946

FREE QUOTATIONS

Thursday, 13 August 2026

NM10069276-VI130826

19 YEARS PAVING EXPERIENCE

NM10069277-VI130826

Chess players dominate competition MARTI WILL

The St Helena Primary School has emerged as a force to be reckoned with on the chessboard after its young players delivered a remarkable performance at the 2026 Free State Closed Chess Championships.

Olam Majola, the current U12 Free State champion and the highest rated junior player in the Free State with a rating of 1 622, is the current star of the province. His ratings are even higher than that of the U18, U16, and U14 players. He has four coaches coaching him in preparation for the nationals. Two of these are online coaches (one in Cape Town, another in Rustenburg) and two are local coaches.

Hosted by Lejweleputswa Chess on Saturday 25 July, the prestigious invitation-only tournament brought together the strongest young chess players from across the Mangaung Metro, Lejweleputswa, and Thabo Mofutsanyana districts. A total of 181 players, ranging from U8 to U20, competed for provincial honours and the opportunity to represent the Free State at the Mzansi Youth Inter-Provincial Chess Championships later this year. St Helena was represented by 10 invited learners, with six finishing inside the top 10 of their respective age groups. The school’s standout performers were Chereé Gerber (first place, Free State U10 champion); Olam Majola (first place, Free State U12 champion); Makhosanda Pepile (third: U12 boys); Zoe Majola (fifth: U12 boys); Ibilola Adeyemi (seventh: U12 girls); and Chante Gerber (fourth: U14 girls).

Ten learners of the St Helena Primary School excelled at the Free State Closed Chess Championships on 25 July in Bloemfontein. From the left are, front: Pitso Musapelo, Joshua Mqeke, Cayden Harvey, Zoe Majola and Chereé Gerber; back: Lethabo Ralikhomo, Makhosanda Pepile, Olam Majola, Ibilola Adeyemi and Chante Gerber. PHOTOS: Supplied

The school’s success is closely linked to the work of Memme Majola, secretary of Lejweleputswa Chess and chess coordinator at St Helena. Majola established the Lejweleputswa Legends Chess Club in 2025 with the aim of identifying, nurturing and developing young chess talent throughout the district. Her ambition is to see more young chess players from Lejweleputswa progress through the ranks to represent the Free State – and ultimately South Africa – with distinction.

The latest success at the Free State Closed Championships suggests that vision is already beginning to take shape. The players who finished in the top 10 have earned the opportunity to represent the Free State at the Mzansi Youth Inter-Provincial Chess Championships, which will be held from 14 to 20 December at the University of the Free State (UFS) in Bloemfontein. For St Helena’s young chess stars, the next move is already on the board. With six players now among the province’s best, the competitors prepare for this next big challenge.