Issuu

Wednesday, 14 January 2026

GRATIS

Major fraud investigation hits Kroonstad

Expenditure scrutinised MADLI GROBBELAAR

The Hawks’ Serious Corruption Investigation (SCI) unit raided the Moqhaka Local Municipality offices in Kroonstad on Friday 9 January as part of a major fraud and corruption investigation. The coordinated search-and-seizure operation involved the Welkom SCI unit, Kroonstad Public Order Police (POP), and the Local Criminal Record Centre (LCRC), focusing on procurement irregularities involving a service provider. The investigation centres on a contract awarded to Korone Engineering Co. in December 2022. The company was appointed to provide wastewater treatment maintenance services and maintain sewer and water pump stations for three years. The contract included installing two generators, two water pumps, two water meters, and drilling two boreholes in Steynsrus. However, investigators discovered that the Moqhaka Municipality had paid Korone Engineering approximately R6 441 871.75 for services and

Due to alleged fraudulent crimes at the Moqhaka Local Municipality in Kroonstad, an ongoing investigation has been conducted since Friday 9 January by the Hawks’ Serious Corruption Investigation (SCI) unit, involving the Welkom SCI unit, Kroonstad Public Order Police (POP), and the Local Criminal Record Centre (LCRC). Photo: Madli Grobbelaar

goods that were never delivered. The investigation revealed that the service provider submitted fraudulent claims, inflating quantities of items provided. These included claims for four generators instead of two, water

pumps measuring 3 meters instead of the specified 1.7 meters, and four boreholes instead of two. Municipal officials have also been implicated for endorsing and acknowledging that services and goods

had been delivered despite evidence to the contrary. During Friday’s operation, investigators seized crucial documents including payment vouchers and related records, which will form part

of the ongoing investigation. No arrests have been made yet, but the Hawks have confirmed that investigations are continuing to uncover the full extent of the fraudulent activities.

BUILDING CONSTRUCTION

NM10038236-VR140126

$!)**'##&)+,")*)((%

VrystaatKroon

2 NUUS NEWS

Service here hinges on ‘luck’ Residents in the Metsimaholo Local Municipality – particularly those in Amelia and Iraq – are frustrated and upset. They are living in poor conditions due to a lack of refuse removal, a situation that has been ongoing and is now reaching a breaking point. In response to this persistent problem, the DA is set to launch a petition highlighting the inadequate refuse collection and removal services in Metsimaholo. Cllr Stone Makhema pointed out the dire state of refuse in Amelia and Iraq, located in Zamdela, as the catalyst for this action. For quite some time, the residents of these specific areas have been experiencing a stark contrast in service delivery compared to other parts of the municipality. While the DA has repeatedly brought these issues to light, the situation has now escalated to a point where more decisive action is required. “The core of the problem lies in the differing refuse removal methods,” explains Makhema. “Amelia and Iraq have relied on skip bins for years, while other areas benefit from a more direct house-tohouse collection service. “This means a dedicated truck visits each street and home to ensure waste is promptly removed. “Compounding this inequality, illegal dumping seems to receive more attention and action in other neighbourhoods.” The continuous reliance on skip bins, which are evidently not being

The unacceptable living conditions of residents in the Metsimaholo Local Municipality due to poor refuse removal leaves residents with a range of concerns. Photo: Supplied

serviced regularly, has led to a severe pollution problem. It has been months since these skip bins have been attended to. This has resulted in residents being left with no other option but to navigate their daily lives surrounded by rubbish, unpleasant odors, and unhealthy living conditions. Makhema says the contract with the previous waste removal service provider has expired.

Despite this, there appears to be no concrete plan in place to address the ongoing crisis. “The current system, which relies on a Tractor-Loader-Backhoe (TLB) and a tipper truck, is proving to be insufficient. “These resources are frequently diverted to other towns and tasks, leaving Amelia and Iraq underserved,” explains Makhema. “In what can only be described as

a stroke of luck, perhaps only three out of over a hundred bins might be cleaned when these vehicles are occasionally available in the area,” he concludes. The DA says it is a fundamental responsibility of municipalities to ensure that basic services, such as refuse collection, are consistently provided. In doing so, they can maintain a clean, safe, and healthy environment for all citizens.

14 January 2026

MEDICAL CARE ADDS TO PLIGHT A case of documented medical negligence has plunged a Free State resident into a future of permanent disability, necessitating a hip replacement, and has exposed systemic failures within the province's public healthcare system. The patient's life was reportedly altered following a pedestrian vehicle accident in April last year, with what should have been routine management of superficial burn wounds escalating into severe sepsis, invasive debridement, and long-term disability. The patient is reported to have endured repeated failures across the Fezi Ngubentombi, Pelonomi Regional and Boitumelo Regional hospitals. A formal complaint, now reclassified as a Patient Safety Incident (PSI) by the Free State Department of Health (FSDoH), details a pattern of professional misconduct. This includes allegations of failure to diagnose and adequately treat burn wounds, ignored signs of critical deterioration, outright refusal to perform necessary wound care, and a reliance on informal and inappropriate clinical instructions. Dr Igor Scheurkogel, constituency head of the Metsimaholo Municipality, expressed concern over the department's initial handling of the matter. “The FSDoH failed to provide appropriate, timely care, denying the right to access healthcare services under our Constitution. The hospitals breached the National Health Act by delivering sub-standard services and ignoring their mandated duties of care.” The investigation timeframe has been extended, with a projected resolution deadline of 9 February. Officials have confirmed that a redress meeting will be convened once the investigation concludes.

Minister gevra om op te tree Vrystaat Landbou (VL) doen ’n dringende beroep op die minister van landbou, John Steenhuisen, om sy gesag te gebruik om die bek-enklouseer uitbraak as ramp te verklaar. Asook om die bepalings van die Wet op Dieresiektes te herroep wat onbekwame staatsinstansies alleenreg gee om entstowwe in te voer, te berg en te versprei, asook om die nodige laboratoriumtoetse uit te voer. Die organisasie sê ondanks die beste pogings van staatsveeartsenykundiges, leierboere en kommoditeitsorganisasies wat hul lede aanspoor om met die staat saam te werk en aan regulasies te voldoen, vereis die ongekende toename in bek-en-klouseergevalle (BKS) oor die feestyd dringende ingryping. Volgens die VL moet die ministeriële taakspan omsien na: ■ Pirbright-entstofparing, om te verseker die regte entstowwe vir die regte genetiese variante is beskikbaar. ■ Die magtiging van korrekte entstofinvoere van betroubare maatskappye. ■ Die magtiging van die beskikbaarheid van entstowwe vir staats- en private veeartse met

toepaslike naspeurbaarheidprotokolle. ■ Die magtiging van deursigtige vryemark-entstofpryse. “Daar is geen entstof beskikbaar vir die staatsveeartse om in die Vrystaat toe te dien nie. Wat verder kommerwekkend is, is bevestigde verslae van waar die BVI-entstof wat deur die staat van Botswana verkry is, toegedien is, en die hele melkkudde het ses weke later steeds volle bek-en-klouseer gekry met ernstige gevolge,” sê dr. Jack Armour, kommersiële bestuurder van die VL. “Ons hart gaan veral uit na die suiwelboere wat besonder hard getref word met massiewe produksieverliese. Verhoogde kalfsterftes word ook aangemeld en die redes word ondersoek.” Armour noem dat die organisasie bewus is van ’n toename in sosialemedia-aktiwiteit en die verspreiding van sommige kunsmatige intelligensie (KI)-gegenereerde beelde en videomateriaal wat gebruik word om op emosies te speel. “Ons het geen probleem met die ontstellende feite wat versprei word en die hartlike lot van regte boere nie, maar doen ’n beroep op die publiek om te onderskei tussen eg en KI en indien daar twyfel is, om

nie vals sensasionele snitte te versprei wat geskep is om ‘likes’ te verhoog nie.” Die VL doen ’n beroep op boere en betrokkenes in die lewendehawewaardeketting om in solidariteit saam te staan en druk op die regering uit te oefen om gehoor te gee aan die aanbevelings van die kundige taakspan deur die BKS-entstofmark op ’n verantwoordelike en tydige wyse oop te stel, en nie af te wyk na splintergroepe, samesweringsteorieë of onwettige agterdeur-invoere nie. Friedl von Maltitz, vise-president van VL, sê hulle is ten volle bewus daarvan dat beken-klouseer as ’n biologiese wapen gebruik kan word om ’n ekonomie te destabiliseer en daarom is dit noodsaaklik dat die staat die nodige beheermaatreëls toepas. “As entstowwe deur private invoere beskikbaar gestel word, verwyder dit nie die verantwoordelikheid van die staat om die siekte te beheer nie. “Die ondoeltreffende hantering van die situasie deur die staat het dit vir boere noodsaaklik gemaak om, ten einde te oorleef, dit self deur hul private veeartse te doen (teen hoë koste) omdat die staat misluk het,” sê Von Maltitz

GRATITUDE FOR PUBLIC’S HELP IN FINDING CLOSURE

NM10042138-VR140126

The Reitz police have expressed their sincere gratitude for the community's compassionate response after the discovery of a man's body under a bridge on the R57 outside Reitz. On 2 January, the family of Thabo Samuel Motaung (28), a resident of Namahadi near

Frankfort, positively identiﬁed him. The discovery was made on 1 January by passers-by who were walking along the R57, near the bridge. Their walk took a somber turn when, upon closer inspection, they noticed the body of a man submerged in the river beneath the bridge. Without

hesitation, they alerted the police, initiating the process to identify the individual and notify his family. “The police deeply appreciate the vigilance and swift action of the individual who made the initial report,” says WO Mmako Mophiring, police spokesperson.

14 January 2026

VrystaatKroon

NUUS NEWS

Bek-en-klouseer neem steeds toe Die departement van landbou en landelike ontwikkeling in die Vrystaat het bevestig dat die totaal van bek-en-klouseer gevalle in die Vrystaat nou op 194 gevalle staan. Op Vrydag 9 Januarie het die departement in ‘n nuwe verklaring uitgereik wat die 194 gevalle in die Vrystaat bevestig. Dit is bykans 103 gevalle meer as November verlede jaar. Gevalle per munisipaliteit is as volg: Kroonstad 10, Viljoenskroon en Vredefort-distrik 50,

Deneysville en Sasolburg 40, Cornelia/Frankfort en Villiers-distrik 19, Heilbron 3, Parys en Vredefort- distrik 26, Tweeling 3, Bethlehem 3, Reitz 3, Vrede/ Memel-distrik 11, Warden 3, Qwa-Qwa/ Harrismith-distrik 2, Edenville 6, Odendaalsrus/ Welkom 2, Bothaville 3, Marquard 1, Clocolan 8 en Senekal 1. Die department doen ‘n dringende beroep op alle boere en belanghebbendes in die bedryf om saam te werk volgens die nodig protokolle om die verspreiding van die virus te help bekamp.

Volg Vrystaat op Facebook vir die nuutste nuus.

Louis en Magriet Botha, inwoners van die Arboretum-tehuis vir bejaardes in Kroonstad, het op Saterdag 6 Desember hul 67ste huwelikherdenking gevier. FOTO’S: Verskaf

Egpaar vier 67 j. van getroude lewe MADLI GROBBELAAR ’n Egpaar van Kroonstad het hul 67ste huiweliksherdenking begin Desember gevier. Dié mylpaal het Louis en Magriet Botha, inwoners van die Arboretum-tehuis vir bejaardes in Kroonstad, op Saterdag 6 Desember gevier. Die twee se liefdesverhaal het in Bloemfontein begin toe Magriet ná sy in Koffiefontein gematrikuleer het, na Bloemfontein verhuis het. Daar het sy by die destydse Posspaarbank gewerk. Magriet en haar vriendinne het een Saterdagmiddag na hul woning in Bloemfontein, Ons tuiste, gestap toe hulle vir Louis raakloop. Louis het dadelik in Magriet met die mooi lang hare, belanggestel en wou haar graag beter leer ken. “Dit was nie maklik om by Magriet vlerk te sleep nie. Sy het ’n paar keer nee gesê voordat ek haar op ’n afspraak kon neem,” sê Louis. Hulle eerste afspraak was ’n fliek van die bekende komediant Al Debbo, saam met twee vriende. Steeds was Magriet nie te vinde vir ’n nuwe liefde nie en het eers op 28 Februarie 1957 vir Louis ja gesê. Op 6 Desember 1958 is die twee in Koffiefontein - waar Magriet grootgeword het - getroud en die egpaar was vir hul wittebrood na Oos-London. Hiér het hulle in die Carlton-hotel tuisgegaan. Vir ’n groot deel van hul huwelik was hulle in Bloemfontein woonagtig, waar hul vier kinders gebore is en grootgeword het. Louis het op die destydse Suid-Afrikaanse Spoorweë, vandag bekend as Transnet gewerk. Later is Louis na Kroonstad oorgeplaas waar hy as superintendent met 200 personeellede onder hom tot sy aftrede werksaam was. Die egpaar is sedert 1980 in Kroonstad woonagtig en het verlede jaar April na die Arbo-

NM10034128-VR140126

Jong Magriet en Louis Botha het mekaar as jong enkellopendes in Bloemfontein ontmoet en is op 6 Desember 1958 getroud.

retum-tehuis vir bejaardes in Kroonstad verhuis. Op die vraag na wat die geheim is om 67 jaar gelukkig getroud te wees sê die egpaar: “Ons het ’n telegram toe ons getroud is ontvang wat die volgende gelees het: ‘In ’n huwelik eer, waardeer en respekteer ’n paartjie mekaar.’ ” En as gelowiges het hulle gestreef om eenheid in hul huwelik te bekom en leef volgens Deuteronium 30:19. “Kies dan die lewe, dat jy kan lewe, jy en jou nageslag,” sê die egpaar. Buiten die egpaar se vier kinders, spog hulle ook met 11 kleinkinders waarvan nege getroud is en is met 21 agterkleinkinders geseën. Twee van hulle kleinkinders - asook sewe agterkleinkinders - is in die buiteland woonagtig.

INVESTIGATION INTO VICTIM’S DEATH CONTINUES The police in Bohlokong, Bethlehem, have arrested a man in connection with the brutal killing of his brother-in-law, whose body was discovered in the early hours of Sunday morning, 11 January. The suspect was apprehended following a preliminary investigations into the violent incident that shocked the community. The grim discovery was made on Sunday, around 4:50, when members of the Bohlokong police were alerted to the discovery of a man's body near a church at

the intersection of De Villiers and Church Street. Upon their arrival, the officers found a 29-year-old man who had suffered fatal stab wounds to his chest and back. Paramedics were called to the scene but pronounced the victim dead. The deceased was later positively identiﬁed by his sister, who is also the wife of the arrested suspect. While the motive behind the murder remains unclear, the swift

action by the Bohlokong police led to the arrest of the suspect, who is related to the deceased through marriage. WO Mmako Mophiring, spokesperson for the police, conﬁrmed the arrest and stated that the suspect is expected to appear before the Bethlehem Magistrates’ Court soon to face a charge of murder. The police have conﬁrmed that investigations are underway to shed light on the circumstances that led to this loss of life.

· 42 km

in association with Louzanne Coetzee Foundation & Bloemfontein Striders

Entry Fee: R230. Temporary License number: R50

· 21 km

Entry Fee: R170. Temporary License number: R50

· 10 km

R41 800

Mimosa Mall Gift Cards to be won!

Entry Fee: R120. Temporary License number: R50

· 5 km Fun Run Entry Fee: R80.

ONLINE ENTRIES: www.mimosamall.co.za

Menings

VrystaatKroon

14 January 2026

Hoofartikel

Wense vir jaar wat voorlê Met die aanbreek van ’n nuwe jaar kom daar altyd ’n besondere opgewondenheid - daardie gevoel dat alles weer moontlik is. By VrystaatKroon staan ons aan die begin van nog ’n hoofstuk, met vars idees, nuwe energie en ’n diep waardering vir elke leser en adverteerder wat saam met ons die pad stap.n Nuwe jaar bring ook nuwe stories. Stories van hoop en deursettingsvermoë, van uitdagings wat oorkom word en drome wat vorm aanneem. In ons dorpe en platteland gebeur daar daagliks dinge wat vertel moet word, groot oomblikke en klein oorwinnings, mense met passie, en gemeenskappe wat saamstaan. Dit is hierdie verhale wat ons inspireer om elke dag by VrystaatKroon net die beste vir ons lesers te lewer. Om die hartklop van ons streek vas te vang. Die lag en die trane, die suksesse en die lesse, die tradisies en die vernuwing. As plaaslike koerant bly dit ons voorreg om ’n stem te gee aan ons mense en ’n venster te wees op dit wat werklik saak maak. Mag hierdie jaar een wees van groei, eerlike gesprekke en goeie nuus – en waar die nuus swaar is, mag daar altyd begrip en hoop wees. Ons belowe om met integriteit, entoesiasme en liefde vir storievertelling aan te hou skryf. Aan elke lesers en adverteerders, dankie vir u vertroue en volgehoue ondersteuning.

Lees meer nuus en gebeure op vrystaatkroon.co.za

Trek net soos wild saam in stewige trop, maar bring nie reën Die Suid-Afrikaanse Weerdiens se kantoor in Bloemfontein voorspel vir die Noord- en Oos-Vrystaat in die komende week minimum temperature tussen 14°C en 18°C, met maksimum temperature wat tussen 27°C en 32°C sal wissel. Min tot geen reën kan oor die streek voorkom. Dié foto van twee kameelperde, met sebras en buffels op die agtergrond, is die afgelope vakansie by Vrystaat Safari’s buite Kroonstad geneem. FOTO: Tinkie Hattingh

Vrystaatse draai

’n Jaar om doelgerig vorentoe te stap MADLI GROBBELAAR

VERKOOPSHOOF / HEAD OF SALES Coleen Cilliers 083 411 1064 coleen.cilliers@novusmedia.co.za BETHLEHEM Lanie Human 083 500 7627 24lanie.human@gmail.com KROONSTAD Madli Grobbelaar 083 718 0879 madli.grobbelaar@novusmedia.co.za BETHLEHEM / KROONSTAD ADVERTS Adelina Mokoena 071 326 9912 mokoenaadelina309@gmail.com BETREKKINGS / VACANCIES Noleen Petersen 051 404 7600 noleen.petersen@novusmedia.co.za KENNISGEWINGS / LEGAL NOTICES 051 404 7600 vrystaatkroonlegals@novusmedia.co.za GEKLASSIFISEERD / CLASSIFIEDS 051 404 7600 REDAKSIE / EDITORIAL Madli Grobbelaar 083 718 0879 madli.grobbelaar@novusmedia.co.za OMBUDSMAN Kontak VrystaatKroon se ombudsman oor klagtes.

Toe ek my oë uitvee, is 2025 reeds iets van die verlede en 2026 is volstoom aan die gang. ’n Splinternuwe jaar lê voor ons – ’n vars begin, soos ’n oop pad wat vorentoe strek met nuwe moontlikhede wat wag om verken te word. Hoewel niemand met sekerheid kan voorspel watter uitdagings of suksesse voorlê nie, het ons wel ’n keuse oor hoe ons hierdie nuwe hoofstuk betree. Die aanbreek van ’n nuwe jaar

bied die geleentheid om terug te kyk en te besin oor waar ons vandaan kom. Die afgelope twaalf maande het moontlik groei, waardevolle lesse, terugslae en oorwinnings gebring – alles ervarings wat ons gevorm het tot wie ons vandag is. In plaas daarvan om te tob oor foute of gemiste geleenthede, nooi die nuwe jaar ons uit om die wysheid wat ons opgedoen het, doelbewus saam te neem vorentoe. Refleksie oor wat verby is, gaan nie oor spyt nie, maar oor insig – dit help ons om onsself beter te verstaan en met groter sekerheid te

Sielskos

DR. HANNES ELS

oor die inhoud van die koerant aan ons ombudsman, George Claassen, by 021-851-3232 of na mediaombud@novusmedia.co.za. Geen

re-

daksionele materiaal of advertensie mag gereproduseer word sonder die toestemming van Novus Media nie (artikel 12(7), Wet op Kopiereg 1978). VrystaatKroon 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 011-4843612. 011-484-3612.

“Elkeen wat sy lewe probeer behou, sal dit verloor, maar elkeen wat dit verloor, sal dit behou.”  Lukas 17:33 In ons wandel met God om uit remmende faktore te kom en voluit lewe te kry, is een van die belangrikste dinge ’n Engelse gesegde: Let go, let God. Laat dit gaan en laat dit aan God oor. Dit is nie dieselfde as niks doen nie. Nee, ek laat my hardkoppigheid gaan en laat God toe om my lewenspad te bepaal. Ek gee steeds my beste, maar God bepaal my lewe se ritme en rigting. Onderskei tussen opgee en oorgee. Opgee is leef sonder hoop en moede-

heid. Verandering is onvermydelik, maar groei spruit uit hoe ons daarop reageer. Wanneer ons onsekerheid met moed en optimisme omarm, maak ons die deur oop vir nuwe geleenthede. Mag die jaar wat voorlê gekenmerk word deur doelgerigtheid, deursettingsvermoë, vriendelikheid en deernis teenoor mekaar. Met ’n oop gemoed en ’n hoopvolle hart hou 2026 eindelose potensiaal in. Mag dit vir elkeen ’n jaar wees wat met ope arms verwelkom en ten volle benut word.

Diary

Bly jy in die stroom se krag? Lees: Lukas 17:26-33

Stuur alle klagtes, navrae of voorstelle

vorder. Deur nuwe doelwitte te stel, al is dit hoe klein, en dit tree vir tree aan te pak, begin ons reeds die nuwe jaar op die regte voet. Dit is immers die klein oorwinnings wat uiteindelik tot betekenisvolle verandering lei. Of dit nou fokus op gesondheid, die verdieping van verhoudings, die aanleer van ’n nuwe vaardigheid of die soeke na balans in die alledaagse lewe is – elke positiewe poging tel. Die belangrikste herinnering wat die nuwe jaar vir ons bring, is die noodsaaklikheid van aanpasbaar-

loos niks doen nie. Oorgee is om swakheid te erken en die grootheid van Jesus te soek. Dit vra dat ek my oë sal rig op Jesus, en waar Hy is en wat Hy wil hê ek moet doen, en Hom dan volg. Dit behels ek wat nie iets doen nie; eerder inval waar Jesus werk. Toe ek klein was het ons met binnebande stroom-af op die rivier gery. Dit was ’n geroei en gestuur om in die stroom te bly, maar die stroom het die werk gedoen. Só soek ek die Heilige Gees se leiding om te wees waar die stroom op sy beste trek. Gebed Jesus, leer my om oor te gee en steeds met krag te lewe, maar my oë op U gerig. Amen. ■ Els is ’n oudleraar van Kroonstad.

17 JANUARY

13 FEBRUARY

The Charity Prem Golf Day is hosted at the Bethlehem Golf Club. The packages available are: R1 500 to sponsor a wet hole; R4 500 per four-ball, which includes a cart, halfway meal and dinner; or R5 000 per four-ball, which includes, a wet hole, cart, halfway meal and dinner. All proﬁts of the day will be donated toward the care of premature babies. To make bookings or for more information dial 076 970 2299 or 079 691 5793.

A Night Golf event is hosted at the Bethlehem Golf Club. Participation costs R2 000 per four ball; dinner and four night golf balls provided. Tee-off is at 19:30. Call Thys Schoeman Jnr on 083 647 695.

23 JANUARIE Die Asrivier-VLU hou ’n gholfdag by die Bethlehem-gholfklub ten bate van die Bethlehem-gemeenskap. Deelname kos R2 000 per vierbal, of R3 000 per vierbal met bofborg. Bel Leonie Roos by 082 378 6541.

MAANDELIKS Die Kroonstad-Rotary-mark word op die laaste Saterdag van die maand gehou, op die hoek van Border- en Van der Lingenstraat. Dit duur van 08:00 tot 13:00. Vir meer inligting skakel 076 055 7025. Die Affi-Aarde- familiemark in Bethlehem, bied maandeliks markte aan. Vir meer inligting of om ’n stalletjie te bespreek, skakel 082 990 0947.

14 January 2026

VrystaatKroon

NUUS NEWS

Vrou leef haar kunstige talent uit MADLI GROBBELAAR Sy is dinamies, bekwaam en ’n vrou met vele talente wie se kreatiwiteit ook nou in potlootsketse uitgebeeld word.

Isabel Kruger (62) van Heilbron is ’n bron van inspirasie so vroeg in die nuwe jaar. Sy het ’n nuwe stokperdjie aangepak deur te begin skets en wil graag mense inspireer deur te sê mens is nooit te oud om iets nuuts te leer nie.

Die 62-jarige Isabel Kruger van Heilbron is alombekend - nie net as begaafde orrelis en skrywer nie, maar nou ook vir haar sketstalent wat sy op ’n gevorderde ouderdom ontdek het. “Om te skets was altyd iets wat my baie gefassineer het. Ek het ’n groot bewondering daarvoor en daarom het ek verlede jaar besluit om my hand aan die potlood te waag,” sê sy. Haar eerste potlootskets van ’n wolf het vir haar volksvreemd voorgekom. Isabel ontvang kunsklasse by Marelize Loots, wat by haar toe wou weet of sy kuns op skool geneem het, want sy was beïndruk met haar eerste poging. Volgens Isabel verg die stokperdjie baie geduld en die regte tegnieke, asook die korrekte papier en pot-

Dié wolf was Isabel se eerste skets wat sy verlede jaar aangepak het.

loode. Sy het al verskeie probeerslae ook opgeskeur, want sy reken as jy ’n fout maak wat jy nie kan regstel nie, sal die fout jou altyd pla. “Ek neem gewoonlik ’n foto van my sketse en dan bestudeer ek die foto om te sien is daar iets wat ek moontlik kan verander en so tel ek gewoonlik die foute op.” Sy geniet dit om diere te teken maar beoog ook om profiele en ander tipe sketse aan te pak. Volgens haar as die buitelyne van ’n skets volmaak is, kom die inkleur met aksente redelik maklik. ’n Skerp potlood en die regte papier is natuurlik ook van kardinale belang. As iemand wat daagliks ’n baie vol program het, voel Isabel dit is baie belangrik om tyd te maak vir ’n stokperdjie waar jy jouself weer kan vind asook om van die dag se gebeure af te sluit. Soms teken sy net in stilte of sommer voor die televisie of terwyl sy na rustige musiek luister. “ ’n Mens bewonder altyd die gawes van ander, sonder om self te probeer

Haar liefde vir diere asook vir perde het dié skets geïnspireer. Foto’s: Verskaf

Joint efforts bust crime In two separate incidents involving the possession of illegal firearms and ammunition, intervention resulted in the arrest of two suspects thanks to crucial information provided by vigilant community members in Vrede and Marquard. These arrests underscore the vital role of public cooperation in the ongoing fight against crime. In Vrede, on Thursday 8 January, at approximately 15:00, the local police received a tip-off from concerned citizens about an individual allegedly carrying a firearm at a bottle store. Responding swiftly to the information, officers apprehended and searched the suspect. During the search, a 9mm firearm loaded with ammunition was discovered concealed on his person. Further investigation revealed that the firearm was unlicensed and its serial number had been deliberately filed off, indicating a clear intent to conceal its origin and potential use in criminal activities. The seized firearm will undergo forensic ballistic analysis to determine if it has been involved in any other crimes. A case has been opened, and the suspect is expected to appear before the Vrede Magistrates’ Court on charges of possession of an unlicensed firearm and ammunition. Just two days later, on Saturday 10 January, members of the Marquard police were alerted by community members to a suspect reportedly threatening people with a firearm. Acting

en so kan ’n talent dalk verlore gaan as jy nie probeer nie. Daar bestaan nie so iets soos ‘ek kan nie.’ As jy nie probeer nie sal jy nooit weet nie. “Daarom is ek baie bly ek het probeer. Ek moedig mense aan om dit hul Nuwejaarsvoornemens te maak. Probeer altyd iets nuuts. Onthou, jy is nooit te oud om te leer nie en as jy nie gaan probeer nie sal jy beslis nie weet nie.” Onlangs het Isabel ook aanlynklasse by die welbekende Pieter van der Merwe, ’n professionele grafietkunstenaar van die Wes- Kaap, begin neem. Die stokperdjie is vir haar baie ontspannend en ’n manier om van haar besige leefwyse te ontsnap. Isabel werk ook as ’n voltydse menslike hulpbronbestuurder by ’n groot sakeonderneming op Heilbron en is by Vrystaat Landbou (VL) betrokke. Met haar uitgebreide kennis en agtergrond as speurder in die polisie bied sy ook opleidingsessies aan die polisie, staatsaanklaers en boere rakende veediefstal-wetgewing.

immediately on this distressing report, the police proceeded to the identified location. Upon their arrival, they found the suspect in possession of a 9mm pistol and ammunition, again, without a valid license. This firearm has also been confiscated and will be sent for forensic ballistic testing. The suspect has been charged with possession of an illegal firearm and ammunition and is scheduled to appear in the Marquard Magistrates’ Court. WO Mmako Mophiring, spokesperson for the South African Police Service (SAPS) in Bethlehem, expressed his gratitude for the community's involvement. “We deeply commend and appreciate the vigilance and cooperation of our community members who have come forward to report these incidents,” stated Mophiring. “Fighting crime is not solely the responsibility of the police; it is a collective effort that requires the participation of the entire community. The removal of even one illegal firearm from our streets significantly contributes to the prevention of serious and violent crimes.” These successful operations highlight the power of community-police partnerships and serve as a reminder that when residents speak up, positive change can follow. The confiscated firearms represent a tangible step towards making the streets of Vrede and Marquard safer for everyone.

Isabel is baie trots op dié skets van ’n luiperd wat sy onlangs in Desember voltooi het.

Om diere te teken bly haar passie, maar Isabel hoop om binnekort proﬁele en ander tipe sketse aan te pak.

Blood donation can make a profound difference As South Africans settle into the rhythm of 2026, the South African National Blood Service (SANBS) is making a heartfelt plea for the public to kick off the year with a life-saving act: donating blood. The festive season has left national blood stocks at a concerning low, and the SANBS’ urgent need for blood donations cannot be overstated. January consistently presents a hurdle for blood collection efforts. The holiday period, with its travel and altered routines, often means fewer workplace and campus blood drives, leading to a predictable dip in donations. Yet, the demand for blood remains unwavering throughout the year. From emergency medical care and childbirth complications to trauma incidents and the ongoing treatment of chronic illnesses, the

need for blood is a constant. These essential services place a continuous strain on the nation's blood supply.It is crucial to remember that behind these statistics are individuals – mothers, fathers, children, and entire families – relying on the generosity of donors. Their recovery, and in many instances, their very survival, hinges on the availability of donated blood. SANBS is particularly reaching out to donors with O and B blood groups who are eligible to donate. O-negative blood is a vital resource in emergency situations, while group B donations play a significant role in maintaining a healthy balance of blood stocks. However, SANBS stresses that all blood groups are desperately needed and warmly welcomed. Thandi Mosupye, Senior Manager

for Marketing, Communication, and Brand at SANBS, says, "January is always a challenging month for collections, but it also presents a wonderful opportunity. If our donors can make time to donate early in the year, we can swiftly stabilize the national blood supply and ensure that hospitals can continue to care for patients without any disruptions." A single blood donation is a quick process, taking mere minutes, and has the incredible power to save up to three lives. SANBS is earnestly encouraging all eligible donors to visit their nearest donor centre or a mobile blood drive. Your donation can make a profound difference, ensuring a stronger start to the year for countless patients who depend on blood transfusions.

DBV BENODIG DONASIES VIR VERSORGING VAN DIERE Die Dierebeskermingsvereniging (DBV) is afhanklik van maandelikse donasies om na hul viervoetige inwoners om te sien. Dit is die organisasie

se prioriteit om die diere te versorg. Daarom wil hulle ‘n beroep doen op die gemeenskap om dierekos te skenk. Donasies is ook welkom en brood-

nodig om hul dag-tot-dag-uitgawes te dek. Kontak die DBV so: Kroonstad DBV-kantoor (056 110 0041) of Bethlehem DBV (058 303 3998).

VrystaatKroon

6 NUUS NEWS

Get noticed…

LEGAL NOTICES

in VrystaatKroon.

INVITATION TO REGISTER ON THE COLLEGE DATABASE AND TENDER IN THE FOLLOWING CATEGORIES:

We have the BIGGEST and WIDEST distribution in 10 TOWNS CONTACT: Noleen Petersen at 051 404 7813 noleen.petersen@novusmedia.co.za

Nico Flietoor at 051 404 7826 nico.ﬂietoor@novusmedia.co.za

Please refer to the College website www.aviusmareka.co.za for fully detailed information regarding the following tenders:

kipeerF no >a/<oiduts_loocaR yb egamI>"hps=kcart&hcraes=weiv_morf&62=noitisop&wal=yreuq#mth.9880678_tpecnoc-wal-tnemgduj-skoob-remmah-truoc/otohp-eerf/moc.kipeerf.www//:sptth"=ferh a<

Advertise all your

NOTICES AND VACANCIES

ESTATES BLOCK ADS VSKHS25-VR160425

CATEGORY A – Render services for one year with a contract with the option to renew. The option to renew solely resides with the college. CATEGORY B – Serve on a panel of a maximum of 10 individual suppliers and render services and/or supply goods on a rotational basis as-andwhen needed. This panel will be valid until December 2028.

AUCTION

lN THE HIGH COURT OF SOUTH AFRICA FREE STATE DIVISION, BLOEMFONTEIN CASE NO. 2541/2025

In the matter between:

Soft copies of the tender documents will be available as from Monday 19 January 2026 until Thursday 12 February 2026 on the College website: www.aviusmareka.co.za.

RUDOLPH JOHANNES CILLIERS AND MARINA JACOBS

All tenders will close at 11:00 am on 13 February 2026.

In pursuance of warrant of execution served on the 13TH day of NOVEMBER 2025 and under a writ of execution issued on the 4 September 2025 undermentioned goods will be sold to the highest bidder by the Sheriﬀ Kroonstad on Thursday, 5 February 2026 at 10:00, 16B Kerkstraat, Kroonstad.

ENQUIRIES: Me H du Plessis, Tel. 016 976 0829 x 1039 OR Me T Rapitsi Tel. 016 976 0829 x 1015 NM10041235-VR140126

APPLICANT RESPONDENT

The Respondent’s rights title and interest in and to the action that the Applicant have instituted in the Free State High Court against Marina Jacobs under case number 2541/2025. TAKE FURTHER NOTICE THAT: 1. This is a sale in execution pursuant to a judgment obtained in the above court, 2. Rules of this auction is available 24 hours foregoing the sale at the oﬃce of the Sheriﬀ of Kroonstad at 16B Kerkstraat, Kroonstad.

ON-SITE

3. Registration as a buyer, subject to certain conditions, required i.e.

AT 11:00 AM

3.1 Directions of the Consumer Protection Act 68 of 2008 (URL http://www.info.gov.za/view/DownloadFil eAction?id=99961 3.2 Fica-legislation in terms of identity and address particulars; 3.3 Payment of registration monies of R5000 cash;

AUCTION

ERF 40, BETTER KNOWN AS 36 BRAND STREET, FICKSBURG, FREE STATE PROVINCE

4. The office of the Sheriff Kroonstad will conduct the sale. 5. Advertising costs at current publication tariffs and sale costs according to Court Rules will apply.

VIEWING ONLY BY APPOINTMENT

a Spacious ofﬁce spaces a Kitchen a Unlimited potential Charl Thompson: 082 335 1320 Ofﬁce: 063 651 1194 charl@cdthompson.co.za

SHERIFF OF THE HIGH COURT for the district of Kroonstad

Deposit: 10% + 7.5% Buyers Commission (Excl. VAT) Guarantees: 45 days

NM10041256-VR140126

14 January 2026

ATTORNEYS FOR APPLICANT MR B BLAIR c/o BLAIR ATTORNEYS 32 FIRST AVENUE, WESTDENE BLOEMFONTEIN REF: CIL004/1

NM10042462-VR140126

A big concern regarding the unfenced railway tracks that pose a signiﬁcant danger, particularly to schoolchildren, has been raised by residents of Bohlokong, Bethlehem. Photo: Supplied

Public’s safety not guaranteed Residents of Bohlokong, Bethlehem, have voiced a big concern regarding the unfenced railway tracks that pose a significant danger, particularly to schoolchildren. These tracks have become a daily hazard for children who, unable to afford school transport, must walk to and from school along them. The lack of fencing, clear signage, and any protective infrastructure has created a perilous environment, putting the safety of children at grave risk. The DA in Dihlabeng has pledged its commitment to protecting communities and championing the rights of vulnerable groups, especially our young ones. “We firmly believe that the safety of children must be our utmost priority. “No child should ever have to put their life on the line just to get an education,” stated a DA representative. “We are urgently calling on the Dihlabeng Municipality, in partnership with Transnet, the Passenger Rail Agency of South Africa (Prasa), and other relevant authorities, to step in immediately,” says Sello Makoena, DA councillor for the Dihlabeng Municipality. To address this critical issue, the DA insists on the swift implementation of the following measures: ■ Secure fencing: Sturdy fencing needs to be erected along all sections of the railway tracks that run alongside residential areas in Bohlokong. ■ Safe crossing points: Where necessary, designated pedestrian crossings equipped with proper signage and safety features must be established to ensure safe passage for those who need to cross the tracks. ■ Community education: Awareness campaigns are essential to educate residents, with a special focus on children, about the dangers of railway environments and how to stay safe. ■ School partnerships: Local schools in Bohlokong should be actively involved in teaching children about safe practices and exploring viable alternatives to walking along the railway lines. ■ Affordable transport: The municipality should investigate options for subsidised or partnered scholar transport services to assist children from low-income families. The DA is urging the municipal manager of the Dihlabeng Municipality to take decisive action by: ■ Organising an urgent meeting with all key stakeholders, including Transnet, Prasa, the Department of Transport, and community representatives. ■ Initiating a comprehensive safety audit of all railway tracks situated within Bohlokong's residential areas. ■ Prioritising budgetary allocations for the installation of fencing and other essential safety infrastructure. ■ Providing public updates on the progress made, complete with clear timelines and accountability measures.

VrystaatKroon BOEDELKENNISGEWINGS

VERLORE DOKUMENTE

BOEDELS: KREDITEURE EN DEBITEURE

T25892/1998 LOST OR DESTROYED 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 No T25892/1998 passed by THE GREATER F I C K S B U R G TRANSITIONAL LOCAL COUNCIL in favour of MAMPOI CHRESTINA TJOAEBE Identity Number 590610 0747 08 1 Unmarried in respect of certain ERF 3308 situate in the town MEQHELENG district FICKSBURG Province Free State IN EXTENT 300 (THREE HUNDRED) SQUARE METRES which has been lost or destroyed. All 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 after the date of the publication of this notice. DATED at FICKSBURG on this 17th day of December 2025 Applicant Du Toit Louw Botha Inc (Francois Carl Louw) – LPCM 576593 81 Piet Retief Street Ficksburg liezl@dlbprok.co.za Tel 051 933 2351

4201

4040

T2918/1963 LOST OR DESTROYED 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 T2918 1/8963 passed by ELIZABETH CHRISTINA BURGER, born Crous, widow, in her capacity as Executrix Testamentary in the Estate of Late SCHALK HOHANNES BURGER Nr. 1554/60, by virtue of Letter of Administration dated 10 November 1960 in favour of MICHELE CHRISTINE TABOR, Minor Daughter, born 12 February 1951, in respect of 1. Remainder of the Farm SPES BONA 1724, district Kroonstad, Province Free S t at e IN E XT E N T 253,8895 (TWO HUNDRED AND FIFTY THREE COMMA EIGHT EIGHT NINE FIVE) Hectares, 2. Remainder of the Farm "GOOD HOPE" 1736, district Kroonstad, Province Free State IN EXTENT 84,8783, (EIGHTY FOUR COMMA EIGHT SEVEN EIGHT THREE) Hectares, 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: FREE S T A T E a t BLOEMFONTEIN, at the office of the Register of Deeds Room B29, within two weeks from the date of the publication of this notice. DATED at PARYS on this 7 day of JANUARY 2025. . Applicant: STEFAN SCHEEPERS LPCM 59914 STEFAN SCHEEPERS INCORPORATED Address: 17 KERK STREET, PARYS, 9585 email address: admin@schlaw.co.za contact number: 056 811 2323

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

*5$*+0)%-+0,',&("

NUUS NEWS

REGSKENNISGEWINGS & TENDERS

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

14 January 2026

5$*+0)%-+0,',&("

J.A.G. DE VOS

R. VAN DEVENTER In die boedel van wyle, Ruan VAN DEVENTER , met ID NOMMER 9402025038083'n GETROUDE PERSOON, getroud binne gemeenskap van goedere met MIONE VAN DEVENTER, ID 9803120050081 Boedelnommer, 8610/2025 wie woonagtig was te 58 EDELING STRAAT, BETHLEHEM, VRYSTAAT en wie op 27 OKTOBER 2025 oorlede is. Enigeen wat 'n eis het teen, of bedrae verskuldig is aan die bogenoemde boedel word hiermee versoek om sodanige eise in te dien, of verskuldigde bedrae te betaal, by die ondergemelde adres, binne 30 (Dertig) dae na publikasie hiervan. SJ VENTER 110 CAMBRIDGE STRAAT POSBUS 96 BETHLEHEM 9700 TEL: (058) 050 0494 E-POS: flip@sventerlaw.co.za VERW: PA OLIVIER/LO /VAN744/0001 BOEDELS: LIKWIDASIE EN DISTRIBUSIE

4205

B.D. JANSE VAN RENSBURG IN DIE BOEDEL VAN WYLE BAREND DANIEL JANSE VAN RENSBURG IDENTITEITSNOMMER: 521009 5064 08 5, VAN: KERKSTRAAT 22 PETRUS STEYN 9640 WIE IN LEWE ONGETROUD WAS DATUM VAN AFSTERWE : 6 MEI 2024 BOEDELNOMMER : 3880 1 /4024 Kennis geskied hiermee ingevolge Artikel 35(5) van die Boedelwet 66 van 1965, soos gewysig, dat die Eerste en Finale Likwidasieen Distribusierekening te die kantore van die Meester BLOEMFONTEIN en die Landdros PETRUS STEYN, gedurende 'n tydperk van 21 dae vanaf datum van publikasie, ter insae lê vir alle persone wat daarby belang het. Indien binne genoemde tydperk geen besware daarteen by die betrokke Meester ingedien word nie, sal die Eksekuteur oorgaan tot uitbetaling ingevolge die gemelde rekening. MARIUS STOFFBERG POSBUS 2689 BETHLEHEM 9700 VERW. BAR148/0001

$##, !##-) %%%+/.'*/#%,+(.+"*

In the estate of the late, JOHANNES ALBERTUS GELDENHUYS DE VOS ESTATE NR: 9415/2022 IDENTITY NUMBER: 540331 5025 081 LAST ADDRESS: FARM MIKPUNT, STEYNSRUS, 9515 DATE OF DEATH: 14-09-2022 Notice is hereby given that the First and Final Liquidation and Distribution Account in the above deceased estate will lie for inspection at the offices of the Magistrate's Court of KROONSTAD for a period of 21 (twenty-one) days from the date 28-01-2026 of publication hereof to all parties who may have an interest therein. If no objections are received by the Master of the High Court within the said period, the Executor will proceed with payment in terms of the account. DU PLESSIS & LE ROUX ATTORNEYS 33 Steyn Street KROONSTAD TEL: 056 212 6541 EMAIL: info@dpl.co.za

EKSEKUSIE VERKOPING 4500

GEREGTELIKE VEILING 4501

In the Magistrates Court for the DISTRICT of LEJWELEPUTSWA Held at WELKOM Case No: 677/2024 In the matter between: FLAT WHEEL TYRES CC Judgment Creditor And HENDRIK SAND VAN HEERDEN (IDENTITY NUMBER: 1981 /003428/07) Judgment Debtor NOTICE OF SALE IN EXECUTION KINDLY TAKE NOTICE THAT a sale in execution of the undermentioned goods will be held on 5 FEBRUARY 2026 at 16B KERK STREET KROONSTAD 9500 at 10H00. GOODS 1. 1 X BIG WHITE DOUBLE TRAILER (FWY 424 FS) 2. 1 X BIG WHITE DOUBLE TRAILER – NO REGISTRATION NR Dated at WELKOM on this 9 DECEMBER 2025. Judgment Creditor /Attorney for Judgment Creditor Neumann Van Rooyen Law Centre 6 Heeren Street Welkom P.O. Box 4, Welkom, 9460 Docex 6 Tel: (057) 916 6666 Fax: (057) 352 4776 Email: Ref: DK/vp/Z30023

.-'0bNP

-,'/aMO

bP 0d# dbfd 'N-H0 N! FN-0d .!Hb'. !H## F0.0# %b*bFbNPC +SN#Q!NP0#bP

aO /c# caec 'M,G/ M! EM,/c -!Ga'!G## E/-/# %a)aEaMOB *RM#Q!MO/#aO

'g1A P94 ;VV@RK)8T *< dT% NBdd%i ?%dK%%<( .+F. +.PU SbQb0#% LZg\XO\= >Z%URhdiBdR:< <i( 9;$feGGVg;VeGf=

'f1@ O94 ;00?SL+8U *< dT% NBdd%i ?%dK%%<( -*E- *-OT RaQa/#% K[f\XP\< >Z%URhdiBdR:< <i( 9;$feGGVg;VeGf=

8<&

8<& FPN(+.SS 'NPF0H-'0bNP 6L0$5 S0% 1O 8 %A>AXBgXO %-HH.d Q.F#fN Q.FbU# KXB %A>AXBgXO >*&%<dRdI <i( WW9GGb GggV G$b= %-HH.d QNF#fN Q.FbU# P4N 2B M %A>AXBgXO >*< T%i )B7B)RdI Bh &MOI B77:R<d%& %J%)MdiRJ R< dT% 0hdBd% _Bd% ^^^ ^BhRP%= *< %J%)MdR:< :# B QM&UN%<d :# dT% +RUT 4:Mid :# Y:MdT 8#iR)B 5-i%% YdBd% 2RLRhR:<' 6O:%N#:<d%R<3 R< dT% B?:L%N%<dR:<%& hMRd' B hBO% KRdT i%h%iL% KROO ?% T%O& Bd 8)^)) :< KK W.P-.H$ K)KT Bd dT% :!)%h :# dT% 0d# Fd#Hb!! UHNNPF0.% Bd 8T+ 'd-H'd F0H##0C UHNNPF0.% :# dT% <& i& M<&%iN%<dR:<%& 7i:7%idI :# dT% b B<& c 2%#%<&B<d :< dT% ):<&RdR:<h d: ?% i%B& :Md ?I dT% BM)dR:<%%i Bd dT% dRN% :# dT% hBO% B<& KTR)T ):<&RdR:<h NBI ?% R<h7%)d%& Bd dT% :!)%h :# dT% YT%iR" Bd 8T+ 'd-H'd F0HC U#HUF0HC UHNNPF0.%D #H! `::) UHNNF0.% #&0#PFbNP MMC %bF0Hb'0 UHNNPF0.%C LHN*bP'# !H## F0.0# bP #&0#P0D 8;KV 6NP# 0dN-F.P% ! b * # d - P % H # % . P % 0 ( # P 0 $]F#*#P5 FJ-.H# Q#0H#F .F d#S% +$ %##% N! 0H.PF!#H P-Q+#H 08)T):RK)8) +#00#H UPN(P .F M: !N(S#H F0H##0C F-b%H.P%C UHNNPF0.% 0d# LHNL#H0$ bF "NP#%D !92 2A1\BAXO\gZ 7I2791A1 XT% #:OO:KR<U R<#:iNBdR:< Rh #Mi<RhT%& R< dT% RN7i:L%N%<dh' dT:MUT R< dTRh i%h7%)d <:dTR<U Rh UMBiB<d%%&( &M +AB299Y E\O^ O\ZA a9921 gXB eI\ZO]\X Eg2B29eA1 S9IX_A E\O^ O\ZA a992 gXB 9ZB O/7A <2A 7ZgcA %\X\X_ 299Y E\O^ O\ZA a992 U\OcÂX E\O^ O\ZA a992 gXB eI\ZO]\X cI7e9g2B1 &8 +gO^299Y E\O^ egO^C 1^9EA2 gXB eg1\X &8 FA7g2gOA O9\ZAO F\X_ZA _g2g_A NIO1\BA O9\ZAO HI1OAB ,\Xc 299> NZB BAG\Z1 >92[ gXB 72Ac9X EgZZ >AXcA X0Z^Y( X%< 7%i )%<d :# dT% 7Mi)TBh% 7iR)% R< )BhT :< dT% &BI :# dT% hBO%' dT% ?BOB<)% BUBR<hd diB<h#%i d: ?% h%)Mi%& ?I B ?B<P :i ?MRO&R<U h:)R%dI :i :dT%i B))%7dB?O% UMBiB<d%% d: ?% #Mi<RhT%& d: dT% YT%iR" KRdTR< b9 &BIh #i:N dT% &Bd% :# hBO%/ YT:MO& dT% 7i:7%idI ?% ?:MUTd ?I dT% kihd ?:<&T:O&%i' dT% )BhT 7BIN%<d :# 9G1 <%%& <:d ?% NB&%/ YT:MO& dT% 7Mi)TBh%i i%)%RL% 7:hh%hhR:< :# dT% 7i:7%idI' dT% 7Mi)TBh%i hTBOO ?% ORB?O% #:i :))M7BdR:<BO i%<dBO Bd dT% iBd% :# 91 :# dT% 7Mi)TBh% 7iR)% 7%i N:<dT/ [i:SiBdB :))M7BdR:<BO i%<dBO hTBOO ?% 7BIB?O% ?I dT% 7Mi)TBh%i :< dT% &Bd% :# 7:hh%hhR:< B<& dT%i%B#d%i N:<dTOI :< :i hd ?%#:i% dT% 9 :# %B)T N:<dT M<dRO &Bd% :# i%URhdiBdR:< :# diB<h#%i/ XT% hBO% R< %J%)MdR:< Rh ):<&M)d%& R< B)):i&B<)% d: dT% 4:<hMN%i [i:d%)dR:< 8)d f$ :# bGG$ Bh 8N%<&%&' R< 7MihMB<d :# B< :i&%i UiB<d%& BUBR<hd dT% &%#%<&B<dh #:i N:<%I :KR<U d: dT% [OBR<dR"/ XT% ):<&RdR:<h :# hBO% KROO OR% :7%< #:i R<h7%)dR:< &MiR<U ?MhR<%hh T:Mih Bd dT% :!)%h :# dT% YT%iR" :# dT% +RUT 4:Mid' 8T+ 'd-H'd F0H##0C UHNNPF0.% :i Bd dT% %J%)MdR:< 7OBR<dR"jh Bdd:i<%Ih/ 0.U# !-H0d#H PN0b'# 0d.0D XTRh Rh B hBO% R< %J%)MdR:< 7MihMB<d d: B QM&UN%<d :?dBR<%& R< dT% B?:L% 4:Mid' ZMO%h :# dTRh BM)dR:< Rh BLBROB?O% bV T:Mih #:i%U:R<U dT% hBO% Bd dT% :!)% :# dT% YT%iR"' Z%URhdiBdR:< Bh B ?MI%i' hM?Q%)d d: :?dBR< ):<&RdR:<h Rh i%.MRi%& R/%/ 9/ 2Ri%)dR:<h :# dT% 'NPF-Q#H LHN0#'0bNP .'0 T@ N! K))@ Bh 8N%<&%&C 6-HS ÔO7D R R EEE4\X>94_9G4,gR G\AER%9EXZ9gB!\ZA.cO\9X3\B?:::T8 b/ -R)BSO%URhOBdR:< R/i/:/ R&%<dRdI A B&&i%hh 7BidR)MOBih' c/ [BIN%<d :# i%URhdiBdR:< N:<R%h V/ Z%URhdiBdR:< ):<&RdR:<h/ XT% :!)% :# dT% YT%iR" ì::<hdB& KROO ):<&M)d dT% hBO% KRdT BM)dR:<%%i a EB< ]R%P%iP' :i TRheT%i &%7MdI/ 8&L%idRhR<U ):hdh Bd )Mii%<d 7M?OR)BdR:< dBiR"h A hBO% ):hdh B)):i&R<U ):Mid iMO%h KROO B77OI/ Y+0Z*-- \- X+0 +*,+ 4\FZX

EOM(*-RR 'MOE/G,'/aMO 6K/$5 R/% 81P %@=@XAfXP %,GG-c Q-E#eM Q-EaT# LXA %@=@XAfXP >*&%<dRdI <i( WW9GGb GggV G$b= %,GG-c QME#eM Q-EaT# O4M N2A %@=@XAfXP >*< T%i )B7B)RdI Bh &MOI B77:R<d%& %J%)MdiRJ R< dT% 0hdBd% _Bd% ^^^ ^BhRP%= *< %J%)MdR:< :# B QM&UN%<d :# dT% +RUT 4:Mid :# Y:MdT 8#iR)B 5-i%% YdBd% 2RLRhR:<' 6O:%N#:<d%R<3 R< dT% B?:L%N%<dR:<%& hMRd' B hBO% KRdT i%h%iL% KROO ?% T%O& Bd 8+^++ :< LL V-O,-G$ L+LU Bd dT% :!)%h :# dT% /c# Ec#Ga!! TGMMOE/-% fP 8U* 'c,G'c E/G##/B TGMMOE/-% :# dT% M<&%iN%<dR:<%& 7i:7%idI :# dT% b<& B<& ci& 2%#%<&B<d :< dT% ):<&RdR:<h d: ?% i%B& :Md ?I dT% BM)dR:<%%i Bd dT% dRN% :# dT% hBO% B<& KTR)T ):<&RdR:<h NBI ?% R<h7%)d%& Bd dT% :!)%h :# dT% YT%iR" Bd 8U* 'c,G'c E/GB T#GTE/GB TGMMOE/-%C #G! 0;0` TGMME/-% #&/#OEaMO 0UB %aE/Ga'/ TGMMOE/-%B KGM)aO'# !G## E/-/# aO #&/#O/C 8N8W 6MO# /cM,E-O% /cG## c,O%G#% -O% OaO#/##O5 EI,-G# Q#/G#E -E c#R%C *$ %##% M! /G-OE!#G O,Q*#G /8N0N+8S8WWW *#//#G TOM(O -E L K-,R TG,e#G GM-%B #R-O%a-B TGMMOE/-% /c# KGMK#G/$ aE "MO#%C !92 2@1\A@XP\f[ 7J2791@1 XT% #:OO:KR<U R<#:iNBdR:< Rh #Mi<RhT%& R< dT% RN7i:L%N%<dh' dT:MUT R< dTRh i%h7%)d <:dTR<U Rh UMBiB<d%%&( &; *@A299Z1 F\P^ bf27@P :992\X_ fXA dJ\[P]\X Ff2A29d@1 R9JX_@ F\P^ bf27@P :992\X_ /) G99Z F\P^ 'f27@P ![992\X_ %\X\X_ G99Z F\P^ P\[@ :992 T\Pb^@X F\P^ P\[@ ![992 fXA dJ\[P]\X bfd\X@P1 &N *fP^299Z1 F\P^ dfP^B E^9F@2B df1\X1 &; E@7f2fP@ P9\[@P1 MJP1\A@ 299Z RfJXA2D 299Z MJP1\A@ P9\[@P Y8 %9Jd[@ _f2f_@ Y8 E\X_[@ 299Z /\[@ 299= O9 =@Xb@ X0Z^Y( X%< 7%i )%<d :# dT% 7Mi)TBh% 7iR)% R< )BhT :< dT% &BI :# dT% hBO%' dT% ?BOB<)% BUBR<hd diB<h#%i d: ?% h%)Mi%& ?I B ?B<P :i ?MRO&R<U h:)R%dI :i :dT%i B))%7dB?O% UMBiB<d%% d: ?% #Mi<RhT%& d: dT% YT%iR" KRdTR< b9 &BIh #i:N dT% &Bd% :# hBO%/ YT:MO& dT% 7i:7%idI ?% ?:MUTd ?I dT% kihd ?:<&T:O&%i' dT% )BhT 7BIN%<d :# 9G1 <%%& <:d ?% NB&%/ YT:MO& dT% 7Mi)TBh%i i%)%RL% 7:hh%hhR:< :# dT% 7i:7%idI' dT% 7Mi)TBh%i hTBOO ?% ORB?O% #:i :))M7BdR:<BO i%<dBO Bd dT% iBd% :# 91 :# dT% 7Mi)TBh% 7iR)% 7%i N:<dT/ [i:SiBdB :))M7BdR:<BO i%<dBO hTBOO ?% 7BIB?O% ?I dT% 7Mi)TBh%i :< dT% &Bd% :# 7:hh%hhR:< B<& dT%i%B#d%i N:<dTOI :< :i ?%#:i% dT% 9hd :# %B)T N:<dT M<dRO &Bd% :# i%URhdiBdR:< :# diB<h#%i/ XT% hBO% R< %J%)MdR:< Rh ):<&M)d%& R< B)):i&B<)% d: dT% 4:<hMN%i [i:d%)dR:< 8)d f$ :# bGG$ Bh 8N%<&%&' R< 7MihMB<d :# B< :i&%i UiB<d%& BUBR<hd dT% &%#%<&B<dh #:i N:<%I :KR<U d: dT% [OBR<dR"/ XT% ):<&RdR:<h :# hBO% KROO OR% :7%< #:i R<h7%)dR:< &MiR<U ?MhR<%hh T:Mih Bd dT% :!)%h :# dT% YT%iR" :# dT% +RUT 4:Mid' 8U* 'c,G'c E/G##/B TGMMOE/-% :i Bd dT% %J%)MdR:< 7OBR<dR"jh Bdd:i<%Ih/ /-T# !,G/c#G OM/a'# /c-/C XTRh Rh B hBO% R< %J%)MdR:< 7MihMB<d d: B QM&UN%<d :?dBR<%& R< dT% B?:L% 4:Mid' ZMO%h :# dTRh BM)dR:< Rh BLBROB?O% bV T:Mih #:i%U:R<U dT% hBO% Bd dT% :!)% :# dT% YT%iR"' Z%URhdiBdR:< Bh B ?MI%i' hM?Q%)d d: :?dBR< ):<&RdR:<h Rh i%.MRi%& R/%/ 9/ 2Ri%)dR:<h :# dT% 'MOE,Q#G KGM/#'/aMO -'/ U? M! L++? Bh 8N%<&%&' 6,GR ^PP7C S S FFF4\X=94_9H4.fS H\@FS%9FX[9fA!\[@-bP\9X3\A>WWWU8 b/ -R)BSO%URhOBdR:< R/i/:/ R&%<dRdI A B&&i%hh 7BidR)MOBih' c/ [BIN%<d :# i%URhdiBdR:< N:<R%h V/ Z%URhdiBdR:< ):<&RdR:<h/ XT% :!)% :# dT% YT%iR" `i::<hdB& KROO ):<&M)d dT% hBO% KRdT BM)dR:<%%i a EB< ]R%P%iP' :i TRheT%i &%7MdI/ 8&L%idRhR<U ):hdh Bd )Mii%<d 7M?OR)BdR:< dBiR"h A hBO% ):hdh B)):i&R<U ):Mid iMO%h KROO B77OI/ Y+0Z*-- \- X+0 +*,+ 4\FZX

#:i dT% &RhdiR)d :# `Z\\]YX82

8&L%idRh%i( 8XX\Z]0CY -\Z [_8*]X*-Ld.0FdN.P# d#PP#$ bP'4 cW ^8Z`,Z88-- YXZ00X D0YX20]0' 6_\0^-\]X0*] X0_ ]Z GW9 VGG VGgf 0^8*_ ( diB)I7@7TR<)/):/HB Z0-( a[ \XX\e7Nebg9VfG

8&L%idRh%i( 8XX\Z]0CY -\Z [_8*]X*-Kc-/EcM-O# c#OO#$ aO'4 cW ^8Z`,Z88-- YXZ00X D0YX20]0' 6_\0^-\]X0*] X0_ ]Z GW9 VGG VGgf 0^8*_ ( diB)I7@7TR<)/):/HB Z0-( a[ \XX\e7Nebg9VfG .........3!#24.2/1

.........3!#24.2/16

& READYMIX NM10042160-VR140126

NM10042143-VR140126

Wednesday, 14 January 2026

Ready to take on responsibility

Elected to lead MADLI GROBBELAAR

Mthokozo Mbotho, a coach and player whose career has been shaped by the opportunities hockey has afforded him, has begun a new two-year term as the Northern Free State (NFS) Hockey’s head of High Performance after his election at the end of 2025.

As a keen hockey player with a passion for the sport Mbotho career has been shaped by the opportunities, hockey offered him. Here he is in action on the hockey ﬁeld. Photo: Supplied

The 26-year-old Mbotho coaches the girls’ first hockey team at the High School Trio in Kroonstad and holds oversight of the school’s hockey programme. While he describes his day-to-day work as a passion more than a job, he is clear about the purpose behind it - supporting athlete development and helping young sportspeople grow holistically. Born in Welkom and raised largely in Potchefstroom in the North West, Mbotho’s schooling took him from Kruipende Kleuters (Bloemhof) to Bloemhof Primary, before moving to the Potchefstroom Primary School and later Potchefstroom High School for Boys. He went on to study Sport Science at the North-West University (NWU) in Potchefstroom, playing hockey for both the university and his province. His hockey career started in 2013, developing as a goalkeeper throughout much of his high performance career at the NWU. He now plays outfield for

The 26-year-old Mthokozo Mbotho, the girls’ ﬁrst team hockey coach at the High School Trio in Kroonstad has been elected as the Northern Free State (NFS) Hockey’s head of High Performance for the second year. Photo: Supplied

the Kroonstad Players’ Club, where he also coaches the men’s side, continuing to balance competing demands as both a mentor and an active competitor. In his new provincial role, Mbotho’s brief extends well beyond player pathways. He will work alongside coaches and administrators across the NFS region to raise standards provincially, not only by developing hockey players, but by strengthening coaching, officiating and administration. The aim, he says, is to build practical frameworks and programmes for individuals operating at district or provincial

RUNNERS CAN EAGERLY LACE UP FOR THE MIELIE MARATHON The Goudveld Multisport Club will host its 47th Mielie Marathon in Welkom on Saturday, 17 January, and runners from across the province are invited to participate in the event. The Mielie Marathon is the oldest marathon event in the Free State through which runners can qualify for the Comrades and Two Oceans ultra marathons. The 42,2km run will start at 05:30, with the entry

fee being R250; while the participants in the half marathon of 21,1km (entry costs R200) and the 10km race (with participation costing R130) will start together at 06:00. The 5km fun run will start at 06:30. Runners who would like to participate in this event, will need to pay R50 to enter. All the races start and ﬁnish at the Welkom Technical High School (THS) sports grounds in Volks

Witteberg skitter in toernooi Die Hoërskool Witteberg van Bethlehem se eerste krieketspan het die Kovsie Smash-kriekettoernooi in Bloemfontein op ’n hoë noot afgesluit met ’n oorwinning van ses paaltjies oor die Hoërskool-Voortrekker van Bethlehem. Die toernooi het van 5 tot 9 Januarie geduur. Xander Fourie was die ster van die wedstryd met ’n skitterende beurt van 69 lopies uit net 38 aflewerings, terwyl Pieter Wessels waardevolle ondersteuning gebied het met 36 lopies van 28 balle. Fourie se uitstaande vertonings deur die toernooi heen het hom nie net die man van die wedstryd-eer besorg nie, maar hy het ook die eerbewys van speler van die toernooi

Road, Welkom. The price giving acknowledging the overall winners will be hosted at 10:00. Entries can be done online, by visiting the website evententry.co.za. All enquiries runners may have about the 47th Mielie Marathon can be directed to Pedrie Erasmus on 083 478 3886, or to Marius Bester on 073 187 9245.

level, so they are equipped to excel once they reach national level. Central to Mbotho’s coaching philosophy is the belief that great players are made through curiosity and resilience. He argues that athletes must be willing to make mistakes, admit what they do not yet know, and stay eager to learn. While technical and tactical skills matter, he insists the foundation comes first. He also places emphasis on motivation, shaped by belief, encouragement and problem-solving environments. Experience is the best teacher, he suggests, adding that a coach’s role is to prepare players to solve problems both on and off the field. In his view, effort in training often translates into effort in the classroom, with on-field standards reinforcing off-field results. Away from hockey, Mbotho enjoys running, gym training, reading, and watching sports. As he begins his term, he says he is embracing the challenge ahead, crediting the support of the Trio community, from parents, learners and staff, and committing to progress step by step against the programme’s targets. With a new provincial mandate and a continuing presence at school and club level, Mbotho’s message is straightforward, meaningful performance is built through collective effort, consistent support, and an environment where young athletes are pushed and trusted to grow.

ATLANTIC OIL KROONSTAD JANUARY 2026

ULP 93: R20.64 ULP 95: R20.75 DIESEL 50: R19.09 PARAFIN: R15.50

Williams Hunt Kroonstad C/O Swart & Stasie str Kroonstad, 9499 056 2131921

NM10042145-VR140126

Die eerste krieketspan van die Hoërskool Witteberg van Bethlehem het uitstekend gevaar tydens die Kovsie Smash-kriekettoernooi wat verlede week in Bloemfontein plaasgevind het. Voor van links,is: Luwazi Mosia, HJ Eksteen, Tian Jordaan, Anru Erasmus en Janco Botha;agter: Janco Els (afrigter), Xander Fourie, Heiken Venter, Dumesani Johnson, Mila Oerson, Kyle Nel, WJ Gildenhuys, Pieter Wessels en Robert Bosch (afrigter).

en bouler van die toernooi ontvang. “Dit was ’n besonder geslaagde toernooi, en ons sien

met groot opgewondenheid uit na wat die res van die seisoen inhou,” sê Gustav Dreyer, Witteberg se bemarkingshoof.

NM10016919-EX090725