Vista-E-Edition-30 October 2025

Page 1


Africa’s largest private solar and storage rolled

Poweringhou

MARTI WILL

The Sola Group has announced the achievement of an early commercial operations date for its R3 billion, 195 Megawatt peak (MWp) Springbok Solar Power Project in Virginia This marks the beginning of what the company describes as Africa’s largest private solar and storage rollout

The facility represents Africa’s first true multi-buyer, flexible energy project It constitutes one of the continent’s largest corporate renewable developments, demonstrating the viability of large-scale renewable energy solutions for major corporate buyers

Delivered ahead of schedule, the Springbok project significantly increases Sola’s operational portfolio to 464 MWp, establishing it as South Africa’s largest operational provider of private

power contracts

The project pioneers a flexible multi-buyer platform, enabling a cross-section of major South African corporate buyers to procure clean energy from a single source The power will be wheeled across the Eskom network to serve multiple off-takers under long and short-term rolling power purchase agreements (PPA)

Anchor buyers Amazon and Sibanye-Stillwater will receive clean energy alongside several additional buyers spanning diverse industries, including Sasol, Afrimat, Redefine, Old Mutual, Vodacom, Rio Tinto and BRM Brands

The project features South Africa’s first operational virtual wheeling PPA, with Vodacom leveraging the flexible model to source power for its operations, setting a precedent for municipal-level energy procurement

The 195 MWp facility will generate over 430 000 Megawatt-hour (MWh) of clean energy annually sufficient to power approximate-

The Springbok Solar Power Project,Africa’s largest private solar and storage rollout,was officially commissioned
28 October Photo: Marti Will

Urgent intervention needed to save services

MARTI WILL

An urgent intervention plan from the acting municipal manager of Matjhabeng Municipality is needed to address the ongoing collapse of the Department of Community Services.

DA Councillor René Steyn says that for weeks, residents across Matjhabeng have suffered the consequences of a department that is not adequately resourced, equipped, or managed

What began as an excuse for a shortage of personal protective equipment (PPE) has now exposed far deeper problems: chronic mismanagement, poor planning, and blatant disregard for service delivery

Municipal workers were left without basic protective gear for over six weeks, halting refuse collection in many areas However, PPE was merely the symptom of broader institutional failures

Before that crisis, excuses shifted between Expanded Public Works Programme (EPWP) shortages and truck breakdowns, none of which should

have paralysed an entire service if proper contingency planning, budgeting, and oversight were in place

The department's inability to anticipate, prepare for, and respond to these operational realities represents an apparent failure of leadership When services like refuse collection grind to a halt, it doesn't merely inconvenience residents, it triggers a domino effect of illegal dumping, overgrown public spaces, fires, and increased crime, which will now take weeks, if not months, to address The DA highlighted that this administration has demonstrated where its priorities lie:

millions spent on hosting an "investment summit" whilst residents wade through filth, cut their own grass, and live amid mounting waste The very department tasked with safeguarding community hygiene and environmental health has been reduced to a hollow shell, crippled by negligence and deprived of resources The DA demands that the Acting Municipal Manager immediately outline how the municipality plans to address the refuse backlog and clean up the illegal dumping that has proliferated across Welkom "They must put plans in place to restore routine

refuse collection and maintenance schedules, and they must explain why PPE procurement and planning were so poorly managed that an entire department was left unable to perform its basic duties for nearly two months "Residents deserve transparency and a clear recovery plan, not shifting excuses and empty promises," said Steyn She warned that until the municipality can demonstrate it is capable of planning, resourcing its departments, and maintaining even the most basic services, Matjhabeng will remain trapped in a cycle of chaos and decay

Rescue team wins pink prize

The non charitable organisation,4 Feral Rescue Team won first prize at the first Upstairs Spring Market that was recently held in Welkom.They were awarded for their efforts to dress in vibrant pink,to show their support for“Pink Power October – Cancer Awareness ”These women once again showed the Welkom Community they have what it takes in the fight for not just ferals and strays,but also for cancer awareness

The Upstairs Spring Market in collaboration with @ RED CARPET VENUE took place on Saturday 18 October.The 4 Feral Rescue team,lead by Elmarie Calitz (photo), would like to thank everyone involved,for making this day a huge success ”The NPO,4 Feral Rescue is flooded with not just kittens,but also mommy cats with their kittens We urge the community to please get involved in our fund-raising and TNR projects We are in urgent need of cat/kitten food,blankets,toys,food bowels, litter and financial contribution towards our veterinarian accounts

Flying the Goldfields’ flag

Veteran radio and television broadcaster Brian Emmenis has been awarded the opportunity to serve as aviation host for the Red Bull Flugtag,a worldclass event that attracts about 200 000 spectators and close to 2,4 million television viewers The event will take place on Sunday 2 November,at the Cape Town Waterfront.Emmenis is is well known for his work on Radio Oranje and Capital Radio 604 in years gone by He was also chosen to run Radio Goldfields, which served as the forerunner to the establishment of community radio in South Africa His most recent major project was Gold FM The Red Bull Flugtag represents a significant career milestone for the veteran broadcaster,who has built a reputation for engaging sports and aviation commentary over several decades Simultaneously with the Waterfront event,Emmenis will have a team at one of the biggest outdoor expos at the SAAF Ysterplaat Airforce Base He is flying his team to Cape Town for both events,demonstrating the scale of his broadcasting operation

Die geheim lê in Kol 1: 24 – 29: “Christus is in julle, Hy is julle hoop op die heerlikheid.”

Ons deel dalk die seer en

Die bewys is die waarheid van Christus, die Seun van God, self God, Immanuel, God met ons Met Sy geboorte het die engele dit bevestig: “Vrede op aarde vir die mense in wie Hy ’ n wel-

Citizens call to stop airport scam

Concerned and worried resident,Welkom:

The revelations regarding Katiso Molefe and Cat Matlala’s connection to Matjhabeng are concerning

As citizens, it is essential for us to prioritize our wellbeing and the future of our children, considering the reputation of the two

The airport issue not only sparks controversy but also jeopardizes the safety and security of Matjhabeng and the entire country

The accused pair face serious charges encompassing illicit drug trade and assassinations for hire Concerns have been raised that the cargo airport will serve as a hub for distributing narcotics and other contraband

The timing of the investment summit also raises suspicions, as the commitments made by the two days old company, Sebastian, appear to be a ruse to deceive locals into believing the project will create

much-needed employment opportunities, thereby facilitating site occupation for alterior motives

All stakeholders in Matjhabeng are called upon to collaborate in halting this scam and to demand accountability from both provincial and national government, as it has become clear that Matjhabeng's leadership lacks credibility and its decisions do not align with the interests of citizens and the municipality’s future

FIVE DEAD,FIVE INJURED IN N1 HEAD-ON COLLISION NEAR WINBURG

Five people have died after a head-on collision on the N1 between Winburg and Ventersburg on Sunday evening Winburg police were called to the scene at 17:40 on 26 October, where they discovered persons trapped inside a blue Volkswagen Polo Vivo and a maroon Toyota Avanza Preliminary investigations

revealed that the two motor vehicles were travelling in opposite directions before they collided Three adult women and a adult man were certified dead at

the scene, whilst an adult male driver succumbed to his injuries in hospital Five seriously injured passengers, two men, one woman, and two male minors,

were taken to various hospitals The circumstances leading to the accident will form part of police investigations, which are currently underway

Runners promised a race to remember

After the phenomenal success of the 2025 Mimosa Mall Marathon, Bloemfontein’s biggest running celebration returns on Saturday 28 February

This event wil be bigger faster and more unforgettable than ever before The 2025 instalment, hosted in March saw record-breaking participation with double the number of entries compared to that of its debut year 2023

Thousands of runners took part from elite athletes chasing qualifying times to families lacing up for the 5km fun run They filled the streets with energy, colour and community spirit, turning Bloemfontein into a festival of fitness and pride

The event continues its proud partnership with the Louzanne Coetzee Foundation, raising funds to empower differently-abled athletes and promote inclusion through sport a cause that lies at the very heart of this event

With preparations well underway, the 2026 Mimosa Mall Marathon hosted in association with Bloemfontein Striders, is set to deliver an even more elevated experience

The marathon will once again be an official Comrades qualifier race and offer runners the chance to test their endurance on a fast, scenic and well-supported route through the city

Runners and supporters can look forward to refreshed race-day experiences, lively activations, and a true celebration of Bloemfonteins commu-

nity spirit, all centred around the heartbeat of the city, Mimosa Mall

“The response to this years marathon was beyond anything we imagined ” says Neelofar Issa general manager of Mimosa Mall

Seeing the streets come alive with runners families and supporters reminded us how powerful sport can be in uniting a community

The Mimosa Mall Marathon has truly become more than a race it’s a shared moment of pride for our city culture and community and we can’t wait to make 2026 even more extraordinary

Jeannine van Zyl, general manager of Novus Media Community News in the Free State and Northern Cape, has also expressed excitement about the 2026 event

It is a privilege to be the media sponsor of the Mimosa Mall Marathon for the second consecutive year There was such a wonderful atmosphere on race day this year and we are sure there will be more runners that want to be part of the 2026 event

“We look forward to seeing how the race grows getting more and more of our readers involved and active When we come together as a community in this way we ’ re not only building health and fitness we ’ re also building overall wellbeing and a healthy mind An event like this strengthens what connects our people: perseverance, togetherness and having fun ”

■ Get more information in Vista in the following weeks

Thousands of runners took part in the Mimosa Mall Marathon in 2025 PHOTOS: Reblex
Each participant received a medal
Louzanne Coetzee and her guide Sewie Sewenster at the start of the 21km of the 2025 Mimosa Mall Marathon.

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ODENDAALSRUS DATED 27 SEPTEMBER 1994 in favor of SULUPANE SIMON MOLUPI, IDENTITY NUMBER: 660518 5288 081, UNMARRIED in respect of certain ERF 6854

KUTLWANONG (EXTENSION

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ODENDAALSRUS, PROVINCE FREE STATE which has been lost or destroyed.

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06228/2023

ESTATE NOTICE In the estate of the late:

LIKELELI ALICE JUBILEE (BORN TALIME), (ID: 770622 1153 187) in life from WELKOM and surviving spouse JUBILEE JUBILE (ID: 741127 5823 187) married in community of property DATE OF DEATH: 12 JANUARY 2021

E S T A T E N U M B E R : 06228/2023

NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN to Debtors and Creditors to pay amounts due to the estate and to institute claims against the estate with the undersigned within 30 (THIRTY) days from the date of publication hereof ATTORNEY FOR EXECUTOR F R A N

ATTORNEYS

ODYSSEY BUILDING FIRST FLOOR 8 GOVERNMENT AVENUE P O BOX 265 VIRGINIA 9430 (REF: LL/ EST / J941

E M A I L :

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Date of Birth: 1997-10-20 ID Number: 9710205028082

Last Address: 728 K3, K U T L W A N O N G ,

ODENDAALSRUS, 9480

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9480

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Date of Birth: 1959-04-15

ID Number: 5904155235086

Last Address: 1 SCHUBERT STREET RIEBEECKSTAD WELKOM, 9459

Date of Death: 2021-01-17

M a s t e r ' s O f f i c e : BLOEMFONTEIN First Names of Surviving Spouse: MAKATLEO AGNES Surname of Surviving Spouse: SHESHE

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Date of Death: 2023-06-19 M a s t e r ' s O f f i c e : BLOEMFONTEIN

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CHARTERED ACCOUNTANTS 3RD FLOOR JABEZ BUILDING 323 STATEWAY WELKOM 9459 defreitas@2mail.co.za 057-3528833 (REF: DE FREITAS M002 / ESTATE) FINANCIAL

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DRUG BUST NETS TWO ARRESTS

Members of Welkom Public Order Police have arrested two suspects for alleged drug possession in Hennenman following swift action on community information received on Thursday 23 October Acting on reports about houses where drugs were allegedly being sold, officers searched a property in Phomolong and discovered eleven halves of Mandrax tablets, three sealed bags of crystal methamphetamine and money, leading to the arrest of a 45-year-old man In a separate incident at Motseki informal settlement, a 40-year-old man was arrested after police found nine sealed bags of crystal methamphetamine and money hidden in a bedroom Both suspects have been charged with drug possession

RESCHEDULING OF CHERRY JAZZ FESTIVAL RAISES CONCERNS,QUESTIONS ABOUT PROVINCIAL SUPPORT

Profound disappointment was expressed by the South African Arts and Culture Youth Forum Free State Provincial Chapter following the announcement that the Cherry Jazz Festival has been re-

scheduled to 15 November 2026 due to unforeseen funding challenges This leaves a significant void in the cultural calendar of the Free State and raises questions about provincial support for established

arts events

For 16 years, the festival has served as a cornerstone of artistic expression, with 80% local talent "The cancellation will have far-reaching conse-

quences for the local business community, particularly in Ficksburg/Meqheleng, and will affect the livelihoods of artists who rely on such platforms," the forum stated

Container library represents hope

MARTI WILL

Adding another chapter to a legacy of upliftment in literacy, AVBOB unveiled its latest container library at the Katoloso Primary School in Wesselsbron on 21 October.

As in many towns in the Free State, residents of Wesselsbron face several daily challenges The limited learning resources available to the learners at the Katoloso Primary School not only hinder their education in the short term but also impact the town’s longterm ability to raise itself above its current socio-economic constraints

With over 3 000 books, this new container library is a beacon of opportunity

It will be a place to help bridge the gap between potential and possibility, serving learners and the broader community in providing a safe, inspiring environment for study, research and personal growth

“On behalf of the Katoloso Primary School, I am deeply humbled and grateful for this generous gift of a container library from AVBOB

“It is more than just a structure filled with books It is a gift of hope, opportunity, and growth For many of our learners, this library represents a doorway to new worlds and endless possibilities It will help them develop a love for reading, build confidence, and dream beyond the classroom walls

“Since our establishment in 1986, our school has always strived to provide quality education despite

challenging conditions

“This donation marks a historic milestone in our journey, one that will enrich not only our learners but also our teachers and the wider Monyakeng community” , said Ramotladi

Matsepe, principal Launched in 2013, the project was born from AVBOB’s realisation that a lack of reading material remains one of the most significant barriers to learning for many South African children, especially those who attend

schools in rural and underserved areas By converting shipping containers into fully equipped libraries, AVBOB is able to serve learners and communities by creating welcoming, functional spaces that make literacy accessible to all

To date, the AVBOB Container Library Project has invested over R36 million in 73 libraries across the nation Covering all nine provinces, these containers have collectively provided more than 216 000 books and

KENNISVANAANSOEKOM‘NLISENSIEVIR DIEOPWEKKINGVANKRAG

IngevolgeArtikel11vandieWetopElektrisiteitsregulering,2006(WetNr 4 van 2006);stel Piscis Energy (RF) (Pty) Ltd hiermee alle inwoners in Virginia,MatjhabengMunisipaliteit,VrystaatProvinsieinkennisdat‘n lisensie-aansoek by die Nationale Energiereguleerder van Suid Africa (NERSA) ingedien is om ‘n 207 4 MW opwekkingsaanleg van Fotovoltaïese Energie (Sonkrag) te bedryf. Onderworpe aan NERSA se goedkeuring,salhierdiefasiliteit(e)opgerigwordbydieplaasPorsie1&4 van die Plaas Florida nommer 633, Restant van die Plaas Le Roux nommer 766, en Restant van die Plaas Kriegers Kraal nommer 708, Registrasie afdeling Ventersburg, Vrystaat Provinsie. Die krag wat gegenereerwordgaanaanNTCSASOCLtdverkoopwordasdeelvandie regeringse‘PowerProducerProcurementProgramme’.

Dielisensie-aansoeklêterinsaebydieVirginiaMunisipaliteitkennisgewing bordby319CornerRyk&Stateway,Welkom,Vrystaat,SuidAfrika,9459, Ms.KatlehoDingaan,Tel.0214183940,dieaansoekisookbeskikbaarop die Applikant se webwerf wwwredrocket energy onder regulerende dokumente asook op die NERSA-webwerf wwwnersa org za onder konsultasiedokumente.

Allebelanghebbendeparyteen/ofenigelidvandiepubliekmaggeskrewe besware by NERSA indien binne 30 dae vanaf die datum van hierdie kennisgewing.Sodanigebeswaremoetindievormweesvan'nbeëdigde verklaringenmoetaanNERSAnadievolgendeadressegestuurword: NERSAkontakbesonderhede

Staatadres

DieDH:AfdelingElektrisiteitlisensiëringenVoldoening KulawulaHouse 526MadibaStreet

Arcadia Pretoria

Posadres

DieDH:AfdelingElektrisiteitlisensiëringenVoldoening Posbus40343

Arcadia

0007

Suid-Afrika

Nokukhanya.Msweli@nersa.org.za

benefited more than 71 000 learners and over 2 000 educators

To further support this initiative, AVBOB has committed to ensuring that container libraries which are older than seven years are refurbished and provided with additional reading books To date AVBOB has spent R8,3 million on the refurbishment of 22 container libraries

Each library is part of an ongoing story that will continue to benefit future generations With each new

library, more learners gain access to the tools they need to succeed In turn, more communities begin to believe in the power of education to change lives “The Katoloso Primary School Library is simply one more chapter - one that speaks to hope, opportunity, and a thriving South Africa built on literacy for all,” concluded Kebo Mosweusweu, AVBOB’s general manager of Shared Value and Sustainability

KENNISVANAANSOEKOM‘NLISENSIEVIR DIEOPWEKKINGVANKRAG

IngevolgeArtikel11vandieWetopElektrisiteitsregulering,2006(WetNr 4 van 2006); stel Lupus Energy (RF) (Pty) Ltd hiermee alle inwoners in Virginia,MatjhabengMunisipaliteit,VrystaatProvinsieinkennisdat‘n lisensie-aansoek by die Nationale Energiereguleerder van Suid Africa (NERSA) ingedien is om ‘n 239 7 MW opwekkingsaanleg van Fotovoltaïese Energie (Sonkrag) te bedryf Onderworpe aan NERSA se goedkeuring, sal hierdie fasiliteit(e) opgerig word by die plaas Blomskraal nr 216, Registrasie afdeling Ventersburg, Vrystaat Provinsie. Die krag wat gegenereer word gaan aan NTCSA SOC Ltd verkoop word as deel van die regering se ‘Power Producer Procurement Programme’.

Dielisensie-aansoeklêterinsaebydieVirginiaMunisipaliteitkennisgewing bordby319CornerRyk&Stateway,Welkom,Vrystaat,SuidAfrika,9459, Ms.KatlehoDingaanTel.0214183940,dieaansoekisookbeskikbaarop die Applikant se webwerf wwwredrocket energy onder regulerende dokumente asook op die NERSA-webwerf wwwnersa org za onder konsultasiedokumente

Allebelanghebbendeparyteen/ofenigelidvandiepubliekmaggeskrewe besware by NERSA indien binne 30 dae vanaf die datum van hierdie kennisgewing. Sodanige besware moet in die vorm wees van 'n beëdigde verklaring en moet aan NERSA na die volgende adresse gestuurword:

NERSAkontakbesonderhede

Staatadres

DieDH:AfdelingElektrisiteitlisensiëringenVoldoening KulawulaHouse 526MadibaStreet Arcadia Pretoria

Posadres

DieDH:AfdelingElektrisiteitlisensiëringenVoldoening Posbus40343 Arcadia 0007

Suid-Afrika

Tamai.Hore@nersa.org.za

The new 3 000 books container library will provide a safe,inspiring environment for study,research and personal growth Photo: Supplied

Learners shine at national event

Free State learners have achieved outstanding success at the 2025 Water and Sanitation Education Programme ’ s (WSEP) national adjudication, securing bursaries and substantial prize money

The Department of Water and Sanitation (DWS), together with water sector entities, hosted the national event from 6 to 11 October in Benoni The aim was to recognise excellence in the department’s school-based education initiative aimed at creating awareness about water resources management, water services, and sanitation amongst learners and society

The programme also promotes careers in the water sector whilst giving learners exposure to identify water and sanitation challenges in their respective schools and communities, encouraging them to develop innovative solutions

Young learners from Free State primary schools participated in the Baswa Le Meetse (Youth in Water) competition, which featured five creative subcategories: drama, music, poetry, praise poetry, and posters

The competition recognises youth achievements in educating society about integrated water resource management, promoting water use efficiency, health and hygiene, and the use and care of sanitation facilities

Learners of the Setshabelo Primary School in Welkom secured first position in the poster category, earning R30 000 prize money for their school

The Bhekilanga Primary School in Heilbron achieved second place in praise poetry, receiving R25 000 prize money

Gr 9 and Gr 10 learners competed

At the event are from the left,front: Tolerance Machisis (Setshabelo Primary School,winner: poster) and Siphesihle Jimika (Bhekilanga Primary School,winner: praise poetry); middle: Dikeledi Mokhothu (Setshabelo Primary School,teacher of poster winner),Keitumetse Masiu (Lephola Public School,winner: bursary),Naledi Makhabane (winner: bursary),Mathapelo Mosia (teacher Bhekilanga Primary School,winner: praise poetry),Karabo Mmutlanyana (winner: bursary) and Maditaba Tau (teacher Lephola Public School and winner for bursary holders’learners); back: Sisanda Sokhela (teacher Nkgopoleng High School),Ntobenhle Hlengwa (deputy director Water and Sanitation),Tshireletso Rangwaga (best participant,winner of Aqua Enduro Group Leadership Award),Xokozela Ziyanda (director Water and Sanitation Services Support,Nkosinathi Zungu (programme coordinator),Keloebohile Saha (programme coordinator) and Lucky Lukhele (official of Department Water and Sanitation). Photo: Supplied

in aqua enduro and public speaking categories Aqua enduro addresses skill shortages in scientific and engineering disciplines within the water sector at grassroots level, encouraging learners to develop science and technology-based projects addressing water resource challenges

Nkgopoleng Secondary School in Sasolburg represented the province in this category, with Tshireletso Rangwaga winning the award as best

participant in Aqua Enduro Group Leadership The Lephola Public School in Welkom represented the province in the public speaking category, with three learners securing educational bursaries to study courses of their choice related to the water and sanitation sector The bursaries are funded by DWS’s Learning Academy “The learners demonstrated their passion for both Mathematics and Science with their technological inno-

NOTICEOFAPPLICATIONFORLICENCE TOGENERATEELECTRICITY

IntermsofSection11oftheElectricityRegulationAct,2006(ActNo 4of 2006); Piscis Energy (RF) (Pty) Limited hereby notifies all residents Virginia, Matjhabeng Municipality, Free State Province that a licence application has been lodged with the National Energy Regulator of South Africa (NERSA) to operate a 207.4 MW generation plant from Solar PV Subject to the approval by NERSA, this facility will be established in Portion1&4ofFarmFloridano.633,RemainderofFarmLeRouxno. 766, and Remainder of Farm Kriegers Kraal no. 708, Registration Division Ventersburg, Free State Province. The electricity generated will be sold to NTCSA SOC Ltd under the Government’s Independent PowerProducerProgramme.

The licence application is available for inspection at the Virginia MunicipalityNoticeBoard,319CornerRyk&Stateway,Welkom,Free State, Ms. Katleho Dingaan, Tel: 021 418 3940 The application is also posted on the Applicant’s Website www redrocket energy under Regulatory Documents as well as on the NERSA website, www.nersa.org.za,underConsultationPapers.

All interested parties and/or any member of the public may lodge written objectionswithNERSA,within30daysofthedateofthispublication Such objectionsmustbeinaformofanaffidavitandmustbedirectedtoNERSA throughanyoftheaddressesbelow:

NERSAcontactdetails

Physicaladdress

TheHoD:ElectricityLicensingandCompliancedepartment KulawulaHouse 526MadibaStreet Arcadia Pretoria

PostalAddress

TheHoD:ElectricityLicensingandCompliancedepartment POBox40343 Arcadia 0007 SouthAfrica

emailaddress Nokukhanya.Msweli@nersa.org.za

vations,” said Maditaba Tau, teacher of Nkgopoleng Tau acknowledged the collaboration between participating schools and the Central University of Technology (CUT), praising Lerato Mofokeng of the institution as an excellent mentor who tirelessly guided the learners

“My advice to new schools participating in the programme is to form collaborations with higher education institutions to adequately prepare for

the competitions Congratulations to the learners who received DWS bursaries The ball is in their court now to work hard and achieve university entry marks,” she concluded Learners, teachers, and schools wishing to participate in Water and Sanitation Education Adjudications for 2026 can contact the WSEP coordinators in the Free State Call Kelebohile Saha on 073 440 8781 and Nkosinathi Zungu on 082 556 0545

NOTICEOFAPPLICATIONFORLICENCE TOGENERATEELECTRICITY

In terms of Section 11 of the Electricity RegulationAct, 2006 (Act No. 4 of2006);LupusEnergy(RF)(Pty)Limitedherebynotifiesallresidents Virginia, Matjhabeng Municipality, Free State Province that a licence application has been lodged with the National Energy Regulator of South Africa (NERSA) to operate a 239.7 MW generation plant from Solar PV Subject to the approval by NERSA, this facility will be established in Farm Blomskraal no. 216, Registration Division Ventersburg, Free State Province. The electricity generated will be sold to NTCSA SOC Ltd under the Government’s Independent Power ProducerProgramme.

The licence application is available for inspection at the Virginia Municipality Notice Board, 319 Corner Ryk & Stateway, Welkom, FreeState,Ms.KatlehoDingaan,Tel:0214183940.Theapplicationis also posted on the Applicant’s Website www.redrocket.energy under Regulatory Documents as well as on the NERSA website, www.nersa.org.za,underConsultationPapers.

Allinterestedpartiesand/oranymemberofthepublicmaylodgewritten objections with NERSA, within 30 days from the date of this publication. Suchobjectionsmustbeinaformofanaffidavitandmustbedirectedto NERSAthroughanyoftheaddressesbelow:

NERSAcontactdetails

Physicaladdress

TheHoD:ElectricityLicensingandCompliancedepartment KulawulaHouse 526MadibaStreet

Arcadia Pretoria

PostalAddress

TheHoD:ElectricityLicensingandCompliancedepartment POBox40343

Arcadia 0007

SouthAfrica

emailaddress

Tamai.Hore@nersa.org.za

Drie leerlinge aan die Primêre Skool Naudeville het aan die Super Seals-gala by die Hoërskool Sentraal in Bloemfontein deelgeneem.Van links is Genevieve Venter (gr7),Elle-Anne Roper (gr 5) en Aiden Hewetson (gr 2) Al drie het uitstekend op dié gala op 11 Oktober gevaar en topplekke behaal

This is a sale in execution pursuant to a judgement obtainedintheaboveCourt; Rulesofthisauctionisavailable24hoursforegoingthe saleattheOffices oftheSheriffWelkom Registrationasabuyer subjecttocertainconditions is requiredi.e.

3.1 directionsoftheConsumerProtectionAct68of 2008.(URL http://www.info.gov.za/view/DownloadFileAction?i d=99961) 3.2 Fica-legislationi.t.oidentity&addressparticulars 3.3 paymentofregistrationmonies

3.4 registrationconditions

The Office of the Sheriff will conduct the sale with auctioneersCPBROWNand/orco-helpers; Advertising costs at current publication tariffs & sale costsaccordingcourtruleswillapply DMöLLER SHERIFF

WELKOM

Plight of cats highlighted

A big feral cat problem exists in Welkom and the Goldfields

For this reason, Anna van der Walt and Elmarie Calitz are adamant in their crusade to highlight the plight of feral cats

This two-woman team is behind 4 Feral Rescue, a Trap-Neuter-Release (TNR) programme

Van der Walt says domestic and stray cats differ significantly in their relationship with humans, their behaviour, and their living conditions

The differences can be highlighted as follows:

Domestic cats

■ Definition: Cats kept as pets, living in homes with humans in controlled environments

■ Behaviour: Fully socialised to humans These cats are friendly, affectionate, and comfortable with human interaction They rely entirely on their human owners for food, water, shelter and care

■ Health: Often vaccinated, spayed or neutered, and receive veterinary care when necessary

■ Environment: Live indoors or in controlled outdoor spaces (like

fenced gardens) They may wear collars and have identification such as microchips and name tags

■ Example: A house cat that cuddles with its owner and uses a litter tray

Stray cats

■ Definition: Cats that were once domestic, but have been lost, abandoned, or neglected by their humans living without a permanent home, usually on the street or in open fields

■ Behaviour: May still be somewhat socialised and approachable, though often skittish or wary of humans due to lack of consistent human contact They may seek human help for food, water or shelter

■ Health: Variable; may have had some veterinary care (for instance neutered if adopted from a shelter), but often lack ongoing care, making them prone to ailment, injury or abuse by humans

■ Environment: Roam streets, alleyways, open fields, or neighbourhoods, scavenging for food or relying on kind-hearted humans

They may form loose colonies with other cats

■ Example: A cat abandoned by

its owner, living near a field, but approaching people for food

Feral cats

■ Definition: Cats born and raised in the wild, or sometimes domestic cats that have reverted to a wild state, with minimal or no human interaction

■ Behaviour: Typically fearful or aggressive towards humans, avoiding contact They live independently, hunting or scavenging for food

These cats often form tight-knit colonies with other feral cats

■ Health: Rarely receive veterinary care, leading to higher risks of dis-

ease, parasites or injury Trap-Neuter-Release (TNR) programmes may neuter them, often marked by a clipped or tipped ear

■ Environment: Live in wild or semi-wild areas such as large fields, city outskirts, or abandoned premises, relying on natural instincts to survive

■ Example: A cat born in a feral colony, hunting rodents and avoiding human interaction

Key differences

■ Socialisation: Domestic cats are fully socialised, strays are partially socialised, and ferals are unsocialised or wild

■ Dependence: Domestic cats depend on humans, strays may seek human aid but survive independently, and ferals are fully self-reliant

■ Management: Domestic cats are owned pets, strays may be rehomed or adopted, whilst ferals are often managed through TNR to control populations

For more specific details about TNR programmes, call Calitz on 081 477 5629 or Van der Walt on 083 632 2668

Ready to speak on national level

Anna van der Walt,4 Feral Rescue.
Four debaters of the St Dominic’s College in Welkom were selected to represent the Free State at the upcoming national tournament in December.They are from the left Lebohang Hlathi (senior),Naledi Monareng (senior),Hannah Omar (junior) and Tsepang Ramodise (senior) Photo: Supplied

Momentum gebou met oorwinning

Die eerste krieketspan van Welkom-Gimnasium het op Saterdag 25 Oktober ’n oortuigende oorwinning behaal toe hy die span van die Hoërskool Voortrekker in Bethlehem met nege paaltjies geklop het Bethlehem het eerste gekolf en kon slegs 115 lopies in sy 34 beurte aanteken,danksy ’n stewige boulvertoning deur Gimnasium se spelers Henru Heiberg en Aiden Hewitt was uitstaande met die bal en het elk drie paaltjies geneem om die besoekers onder druk te plaas Gimnasium het daarna met selfvertroue gekolf en die teiken in 25 beurte verbygesteek.Munro Heiberg het met ’n puik beurt van 53 lopies die ankerrol in die oorwinning gespeel FOTO: Verskaf

Verwerf goud op ysterperde

Vier tieners van die Goudveld het aan die Mega Mountains Madalas,’n Enduro World-motorfietswedren,in Clarens deelgeneem In dié wedren op Saterdag 25 Oktober het al vier saam met volwassenes in die verskeie klasse deelgeneem,en almal het goud verwerf.Van links is Francois Blignaut,Giana Blignaut (13,Primêre Skool Naudevile),Riley le Gras (10,Primêre Skool Naudevile),Franky van Minnen (12,Welkom-Volkskool), Wayne van Minnen (15,Hoërskool Trio) en Wayne van Minnen sr Foto: Verskaf

Dr Retha Swart, eye specialist with more than 14 years’ experience in private practice will be consulting in Welkom, Wednesday, 12 November 2025.

Odendaalsrus expo powers gold industry

The Odendaalsrus Mining and Technical Exhibition is set to ignite the mining sector in Welkom on 13 November This high-impact focused and intimate expo will bring together key players in the gold mining industry for an afternoon of innovation networking and collaboration

Tailored for mining houses and miners, the event will offer a unique opportunity to explore the latest industry trends discover cutting-edge solutions and connect directly with suppliers and manufacturers

Visitors will have an opportunity to engage with exhibitors showcasing different solutions such as: abrasive manufacturing solutions; industrial gear units and variable speed drives; bearings and automotive components; linear motion systems and conveyor belt tracking rollers and crapers; skirting rubber; safety roller guards and impact beds among others

Located near prominent mining operations such as Harmony’s Tshepong and Phakisa (now Tshepong South) the expo is more than just a tradeshow it is a strategic platform for collaboration and direct access to suppliers of hydraulic drives hose fittings and synchronous belts

The exhibition will also feature showcases of industrial lighting and LED technologies, instrumentation and condition monitoring solutions and much more

This is a not-to-be missed show

The expo will start at 12:00 and conclude at 16:00 at the Wessel Maree High School Entry is free for visitors

For suppliers, there is still a chance to come on board and be part of the solution

To book a stand or for enquires contact Andrew Macnamara, operations director, on andrew@interactmedia co za

Tailored for mining houses and miners,the

MTE,SA’s Travelling Exhibition Company,will be in Odendaalsrus on 13 November PHOTOS: Supplied

Siblings dominate show

A Welkom sister and brother duo are proving to be a formidable team in the showjumping arena in South Africa. They achieved exceptional results at the South African National Equestrian Schools Association’s (Sanesa) national championships held at Kyalami Park Club in Midrand, which took place from 7 to 11 October

Both Karlien van Jaarsveld and her younger brother Hanno are proving to be formidable opponents on their trusted steeds, Victorian Melody and Storm Rider, respectively Karlien faced almost insurmountable obstacles when she suffered a knee injury during school sports and required surgery Unable to ride for six weeks, she nevertheless soared against adversity and obtained brilliant results during Sanesa’s event “I thank BRS Equestrian Centre’s working rider Breeya Bortolussi, who

pony Storm Rider performed brilliantly at Sanesa, Basson comments

“Storm Rider has such a wonderful story I found him on a rubbish heap when he was very young I asked around and paid R500 for Stormy and brought him back to BRS Stormy is really a rags-to-riches story”

Hanno and Storm Rider won the Working Riding Level 5 with a perfect score, obtaining 10 out of 10 for all obstacles

“The judge informed Hano that he and Storm Rider were the only pair out of all the classes to achieve a perfect score, ” says Basson

maintained the training and fitness work with Victorian Melody to prepare her for the championships”

BRS trainer and owner Belinda Basson says, “Karlien has been part of BRS and I have coached her for four years now It was really tough as Karlien had basically ten days in the saddle to prepare for the SA Championships and learn all her test jumps”

Her brother Hanno and his special

Hanno secured first place in Working Riding Champion Primary School Level 5 and was placed second in the Equitation SA Intermediate level, where competitors must ride other participants' horses Hanno rode beautifully and obtained scores of 18; 17,5; 18; and 18 out of 20 from the judges

He also performed extremely well in the tough 90cm jumping classes, finishing third

His other results includ Working Hunter 80cm, fif Caprilli B, fifth in Dressag in Prix Caprilli A, and in Jumping A2 90cm individual Hanno’s individual placing helped the Free State team achieve top positions against all nine provinces

The Free State team secured three first places, second places, one third p and two fourth places

Karlien also achieved b sults, becoming the Work 80cm SA champion at hig level against all nine prov She came second in Wo Riding SA Championship obtained 12th place in Eq 90cm, 16th position in Dr 23rd in Dressage B, and 1 Caprilli

Her individual scores helped the Free State team finish third in Equitation and fourth in Prix Caprilli

Hano van Jaarsveld on Storm Rider, competing in the Working Riding Level 5 during the recent national championships. PHOTOS: Supplied
Karlien van Jaarsveld on the obstacle course of the Bob Charter arena

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Vista-E-Edition-30 October 2025 by Novus Media - Issuu