GBSec chief operating officer and Gordon’s Bay Business Association member Heyns de Waal (left) with Councillor Neil de Beer and AMS CEO
Farhaad Haffejee
Healthcare’s best honoured
In a vibrant Mexican-themed ceremony at the Somerset West facility, 10 exceptional Mediclinic Vergelegen nurses received prestigious DAISY Awards on International Nurses’ Day (Monday 12 May)
The celebration honoured these healthcare professionals for their extraordinary compassionate care, with four receiving special recognition
The DAISY Award for Extraordinary Nurses found its origin in a deeply moving story In 1999, 33-year-old Patrick Barnes lost his battle with an autoimmune disease after eight weeks of hospitalisation at the University of Washington Medical Center
A hi diffi l i hi f il
members, collaborating effectively with the broader healthcare team and maintaining professionalism with a positive attitude
For recipients this recognition brings substantial prestige Beyond receiving the coveted DAISY pin and a special stone sculpture, their stories will be shared internationally online, and they are celebrated throughout the Mediclinic network
They will compete with others of the Mediclinic group’s 53 facilities so honoured, with six ultimate winners enjoying an MSC cruise after outstanding service and dedication
Keanou needs help
JameyGordon
A Gordon’s Bay father is appealing to the Helderberg community for their generous support as his son prepares for crucial medical treatment to combat a severe keloid disorder.
Words aren’t enough to express Bram Rasool’s distress as a parent over the suffering experienced by his 30-yearold son Keanou, whose skin condition sees tissue growing excessively, with abnormally thick protrusions that occur across his body It has placed the family under significant financial strain and has been emotionally and mentally challenging for more than a decade “For the past 13 years I have been the sole breadwinner because Keanou cannot work due to his condition ”
Keanou’s journey with the disorder began in 2012, when small keloids started forming on his back After a year the protrusions or growths started appearing more rapidly, spreading across his entire upper body “At our first meeting the specialist enquired whether Keanou’s body had experienced any trauma Initially, acne was suspected, but that was ruled out To this day the cause of his condition remains a mystery ”
As is common with the disorder, Keanou has unsightly red-tinted growths on his chest, shoulders and arms, cheeks and earlobes, the latter affecting his hearing He avoids public appearances and battles severe itching and irritation all over his body, along with constant shooting pains
Helderberg residents are implored to place their hearts in their pockets in aid of Keanou Rasool, a 30-year-old
through the keloids The disorder has also derailed his tertiary studies Keanou, who was pursuing a BComm Accounting degree, had to drop out in his second year due to the overwhelming burden of the condition However, he is now hopeful for some respite now that life-altering treatment is within reach and he is scheduled to undergo an operation this week
Said his father: “He remains positive and hopeful for a successful outcome ”
After the operation Keanou will require urgent radiotherapy to help minimise the regrowth of the keloids While the surgery will be performed pro bono, the three radiation sessions will cost R21 000 Funding is also needed for other medical expenses
“Initially, the surgery will address the keloids on his face and ear, the rest of his body treated in future Scheduled for Friday morning [16 May at 09:00], it is expected to last about seven hours After waking he’ll need to travel to Hermanus for his first radiation, followed by two more sessions the following day This specialist radiation treatment offers at least a 50/50 chance of preventing regrowth.”
Asked how locals can support Keanou’s cause, Bram said: “The community is asked to pray for a successful surgery and recovery ” AnyonewillingtoassistfinanciallycancallBram on0767821662orbramrasool65@gmail.com
These Mediclinic Vergelegen nurses were the worthy recipients of DAISY Awards bestowed on them for the exceptional compassionate care during a Mexican-themed awards ceremony at the Somerset West facility on Monday 12 May Pictured is professional nurse Hestia Jooste (neo-natal ICU), enrolled nurse Chantal Olivier (gynaecology and obstetrics), professional nurse Hilary Sinden (gynaecology and obstetrics) and professional nurse Ketsia Musema-Mushiya (orthopaedics and neurology) Photo: Jamey Gordon
Gordon’s Bay youngster battling severe keloid disorder
VPNHW awards
JP Smith (Mayoral Committee member for Safety and Security), who was among the special guests attending, honoured VPNHW chairperson Ben Venter as “a remarkable leader working in collaboration with all resources and partners to improve the community”. Pictured with them is Anroux Marais, provincial Minister of Community Safety
Victoria Park Neighbourhood W its prestigious Awards Gala Ev set West Town Hall on Saturda dedicated patrollers, including Boodhraj and Edward Baartma recipients honoured at the eve the contributions of members alike Fouche was named Patro Boodhraj was named Neighbo ber of the Year Baartman was Bicycle Patrol Award. Photos: Jame
VPNHW members who receive programme included Ben Vent talie le Roux, Kirodh Boodhraj,
Proudly displaying their firearm training certificates are dedicated VPNHW members Branton Amon, Amy van Rooyen, Bindhu Singh, Param Singh, Kirodh Boodhraj, Kevin Perrins, Natalie le Roux, Theo Beukes, Juan Fouche, Charlton Christians and Ben Venter
Certificates were awarded to the patrollers of the month Juan Fouche (June), Natalie le Roux (July), Glenville Neethling (September), Edwin Williams (October), Kevin Perrins (December), John Fortuin (February) and Kirodh Boodhraj (March) Not photographed; Johannes Pick (August), Ben Venter (November) and Edward Baartman (January)
on wikkeling en vir I&APs om te registreer indien hu le meer inligting wil ontvang. Die proses vir openbare deelname van 30 dae duur van 16 Mei 2025 tot 17:00 op 16 Junie 2025 en bevestig die beskikbaarheid van die konsep BasieseAssesseringsverslag (dBAR) Meer inligting oor die ontwikkeling is beskikbaar by die OBP volgens die besonderhede hieronder en die dBAR kan ook verkry word by www.groenbergenviro.co.za Meer inligting oor die Watergebruiklisensie-aansoek (WULA) sal by die WULA-konsultant beskikbaar wees volgens die besonderhede hieronder verskaf. Die 60-dae proses van openbare deelname sal van 16 Mei 2025 tot 17 00 16 Julie 2025 duur Vir meer inligting omtrent hierdie aansoek moet registrasie by die WULAkonsultant gedoen word Volgens Nasionale Wet op Omgewingsbestuur (NEMA) is die volgende gelyste aktiwitei e onder NEMA 2014-regulasies soos aangepas van toepassing: Kennisgewing1:R327Aktiwiteite27en28;Kennisgewing3:R324Aktiwiteite4,12en15 Date of this notice: 14 May 2025
GPF hou Imbizo oor veiligheid
Die Macassar-gemeenskapspolisiëringsforum (GPF) het verlede Donderdag (8 Mei) ’n polisie-imbizo aangebied. Die Imbizo was daarop gemik om veiligheid in Macassar te verbeter Edward Visagie, die voorsitter van die Macassar-GPF, het verskeie veiligheidsteenwoordigers verwelkom en op die openbare vergadering het die paneel kwessies oor veiligheid in Macassar bespreek Die paneel (van links) was Peter Helfrich, lt kol Arnold Roux (stasiebevelvoerder), Reagen Allen (lid van die provinsiale parlement), brig Khuthala Masakala, Marlon Solomons en Dean Rulse Foto’s: Barend Williams
Wyk 109-raadslid Peter Helfrich het aangekondig vyf metro-polisiebeamptes sal teen die einde van die jaar in dié wyk ontplooi word om die beperkte veiligheidshulpbronne in Macassar die hoof te bied.
Edward Visagie, wat op Maandag 7 April as voorsitter van die Macassar-GPF verkies is, het tydens sy toespraak ander lede van die GPF na die verhoog geroep om hulle aan die gemeenskap bekend te stel Hy het ook die algemene verbrokkeling van die gesinstruktuur in dié gemeenskap veroordeel, en uitgelig dat dít glo die rede vir maatskaplike euwels is
Lt kol Arnold Roux, die Macassar-polisie se stasiebevelvoerder, het die misdaadsyfers vir 2024-’25 voorgelê. Die grootste bekommernis is Macassar Village-, Chris Hani- en Riverside-gemeenskap, waar 58% van alle misdade plaasvind
Heritage site win
Yaseen Gaffar
A contentious development proposal for erf 7669 at 5 Goldman Road in Somerset West, home to the historic Somerset Lodge, has faced a mixed outcome following a heated appeal process.
While the City of Cape Town’s appeal authority approved the removal of a decades-old guesthouse restriction, it rejected key aspects of the project, siding with residents over heritage preservation and urban density.
The initial approval by the Municipal Planning Tribunal (MPT) last November had greenlit the deletion of a 1989 rezoning condition limiting the property to guesthouse use, alongside proposals for two four-storey apartment blocks with 80 units, relaxed height limits, and an increased floor factor
The decision sparked fierce backlash from residents, who launched petitions and submitted over 50 objections citing heritage, traffic, and community character concerns. (“Somerset West residents object to flats”, DistrictMail & Helderberg Gazette, 11 December 2024).
In a decision dated 29 April 2025, the appeal authority partially upheld residents’ grievances. The deletion of the guesthouse condition was approved, allowing the site’s redevelopment under its General Residential 2 zoning.
However, critical elements of the proposal were rejected: the site development plan (SDP) was refused, requiring a redesign to reduce impacts on neighbouring residential areas and limit building height to two storeys above basement parking near single-residential zones.
Regulation departures for height and
floor factor were denied, maintaining the 15 m height cap and a floor factor of one The authority emphasised that the proposed SDP would “engulf the historic lodge” and clash with the area’s character.
The 19th-century Somerset Lodge, a Grade 3B heritage site, became a focal point of contention. Residents argued the development would dwarf the landmark and undermine its historical significance.
Tiffany Schultz, a leading opponent whose petition garnered over 1 000 signatures, thanked everyone for the support.
“We were not expecting this and I was deeply depressed after the MPT, because we had put so much work into formulating our objection and speaking at the tribunal, but it seemed as if they were oblivious to our concerns, which was very disheartening
“To see this letter in support of our grievances is very positive It’s nice to know that democratic systems work and compromises can be reached,” said Schultz.
The Helderberg Renaissance Foundation (HRF) stated: “The HRF supports the decision regarding the Somerset Lodge, that the development should proceed, but that it must be redesigned to show sensitivity to the character of the area and the historic lodge on the property. This is in keeping with the Grade 3A status ascribed to it in the permit issued by the Heritage Western Cape, the authority responsible for granting permissions related to heritage sites. The HRF looks forward to reviewing the revised design when it is released for public comment, prior to any further approvals given, and are supportive of a positive development on the site."
Water re-use plan progress
The City of Cape Town’s Water and Sanitation Directorate has started construction on the Zandvliet Treated Effluent Re-use (TER) Pump Station.
The infrastructure project will significantly improve access to treated effluent in Zandvliet and neighbouring areas, supporting the City’s drive to reduce pressure on potable water resources.
Treated effluent is a sustainable alternative water source suitable for nonpotable use such as irrigation, construction and industrial processes. By increasing access to this resource, the City aims to strengthen water resilience and diversify its supply sources.
Situated at the recently upgraded Zandvliet Wastewater Treatment Works, construction of the facility began in February. The majority of the 5,32 km pipeline has already been installed, with work on the final 200 m section scheduled to start in September. It is expected to be completed by December.
The total construction cost of the project is estimated at R4,3 million
In the initial phase, the pump station will be equipped with two low-flow and two high-flow pumps. As demand grows,
the low-flow pumps will be replaced with additional high-flow units This phased-approach will more than double the station’s pumping capacity from 58 litres per second to 151 litres per second.
The scope of work includes all the pipework inside the pump station and filter building; the ventilation system; lifting equipment (electric overhead crawl beam); primary and secondary automatic self-cleaning filters; a portion of discharge main piping; flow meter chamber and flow control chamber; new Motor Control Centre complete with internal equipment and cabling; and Supervisory Control and Data Acquisition integration, telemetry and a video surveillance system.
On completion in September 2026, the pump station will be capable of supplying 5 million litres of treated effluent daily, to supplement end-users in the Macassar network.
Over the next 15 years, further expansion covering 52,8 km of pipelines will be done to supply treated effluent end-users in Khayelitsha and surrounding areas For more details on how to access treated effluent, visit https://bit ly/48ZUbck
The Water and Sanitation project team working alongside appointed contractors at the Zandvliet Treated
Effluent Pump Station construction, currently underway (from left) are Denver Adams, Cody Neutt, Councillor Zahid Badroodien, Christoffel van Niekerk, Wendell Lewis and Theunis Duvenage
We sell: Toys, stationery, office supplies, lamps and lanterns, cosmetics, handbags, suitcases, party supplies, household supplies, kitchen supplies, bath supplies, tools, hardware, home appliances, curtains, carpet rug, camera series, speakers, phone accessories, fitness equipment, sporting equipment, plastic products, ornaments, jewelry, belts, decorative paintings, picture frames, clocks and watches, batteries, artificial and so on... stationery, party appliances, accessories, plastic paintings, clocks
Young writers competition hosted at city libraries
The City of Cape Town’s libraries are once again hosting a writing competition for children aged between nine and 13, with the winners being announced at the Open Book Festival in September
Last year, the writing competition focused on environmental awareness, garnering entries from 100 young people Given its success, the City’s Library and Information Services is rolling out the competition once more, imploring primary school learners, young book club members and children in the age group to participate
Entries opened on Monday 5 May and will close on Friday 8 August
The theme this year focuses on a mysterious box, where the writer has to imagine that they are exploring their school or local library when they stumble upon a mysterious box hidden away between the shelves
The box has strange symbols and emits a faint humming sound, and participants have to write a short story about what happens when they open up the box
Stories can be written in English, Afrikaans or isiXhosa
“Writing provides a creative outlet and also helps children to organise their thoughts and emotions By putting pen to paper they learn a new way to communicate and use the written language to express themselves,” said Francine Higham, Mayoral Committee member for said
Community Services and Health
“Our children are creative with vivid imaginations and I’m sure the judges will have a hard time picking a winner I want to encourage all our learners to participate as they could very well write their way to a future as authors ”
Submission criteria:
• must be between 500 and 1 500 words;
• must be an original story; no AI generated stories will be accepted; must be handwritten;
• can be in the form of a picture book, short or long story, or graphic novel; and
• drawings and illustrations are encouraged
Key elements of the story:
a mysterious box in a library setting;
• a magical adventure; and
• a relatable main character or object
Tips to remember:
• use your imagination and be creative;
• must be original works
• points will be given for illustrations or drawings; and
• most importantly: have fun
The prize-giving will take place during the Open Book Festival on Saturday 6 September Learners or schools can submit their stories by sending an email to psp libraries@ capetown gov za Alternatively, submit your story at the nearest library.
’n Stem van hoop
Barend Williams
Tatum Hector van Macassar het groot planne vir haar gemeenskap nadat sy tot die 2025- Junior Stadsraad (JCC) van Kaapstad verkies is.
Tatum was in Maart een van 50 leerders wat as junior raadslede vir een jaar ingesweer is.
Dié gr.11-leerder aan die Hoërskool De Kuilen se liefde vir haar gemeenskap en ’n behoefte om te help, het haar aangespoor om vir die JCC, ’n nie-politieke inisiatief van die Stad Kaapstad vir gr.10- en gr.11leerders, aansoek te doen. Die program bevorder jeugleierskap en burgerlike betrokkenheid deur deelnemers aan die munisipale raad en plaaslike regeringsbedrywighede bloot te stel.
“Tatum het onder baie kandidate uitgestaan met haar sterk interpersoonlike vaardighede en omdat sy kon sin maak van die uitdagings in Macassar Die keurpaneel het geglo die program sal haar bevoordeel en sy sal waarde kan toevoeg,” het die raadslid Donovan Nelson, beskermheer van die JCC, gesê Nelson sê Tatum is weens haar introspeksie gekies – ’n eienskap wat volgens hom selde onder leerders van haar ouderdom gevind word.
Dié 17-jarige en haar ouers, Morelda en Terrence, was verras toe hulle van haar insluiting verneem Tatum sal as deel van haar pligte ’n aktiewe rol in
JCC-aktiwiteite speel en maandeliks twee sessies bywoon waarin sy leierskapsopleiding sal ontvang en meer oor plaaslike regering sal leer
Sy glo sy sal deur middel van die program leer om onafhanklik te dink, terwyl sy ook met Stadinisiatiewe kennis sal maak. Sy het in April by ’n geleentheid van die departement menslike nedersettings, wat deur die wyk 109-raadslid Peter Helfrich aangebied is, die eerste keer as junior raadslid in Macassar verskyn.
Helfrich sê Tatum se insluiting by die JCC is bewys dat Macassar-jeug bo hul omstandigehede kan uitstyg. Hy sal verder mentorskap en ondersteuning aan haar deur haar termyn bied.
Tatum beoog om die jeug positief te beïnvloed. “Om ’n junior raadslid te wees is, bloot ’n titel; dit beteken niks as ek nie werk om die lewensbestaan van my gemeenskap te verbeter nie.”
Tatum moet as deel van die program ’n jeuguitdaging in haar gemeenskap aanpak, maar sy pak twee projekte aan: “Worthy Girls” fokus op meisies se waardigheid en sanitasie, terwyl haar vlagskipprojek “Youth Day Pull Up and Clean-Up” op Jeugdag (16 Junie) by die Macassar-taxistaanplek plaasvind. Sy samel geld in vir al twee en hoop dit kan jaarlikse geleenthede word.
Om te skenk of vir meer inligting, bel Tatum se ouers Terrence by 0786042406 of Morelda by 0626691014.
We have moved! We found our new home at the beautiful Christ Church in Somerset west. Manah is a private Christian school registered with the department of education. Our class sizes ranges from 8-10 students
Tatum Hector van Macassar is as ’n 2025- junior raadlid vir die Stad Kaapstad gekies
Canine fundi duo for Switzerlaand
Yaseen Gaffar
South Africa’s passion for dog agility is leaping onto the global stage once again as Philip Fourie of Gordon’s Bay and his exceptional canine partner, Duke, have been selected to represent the nation at the prestigious 2025 World Agility Championships.
The event will be held at the CS Ranch in Givrins, Switzerland from Monday 16 to Sunday 22 June.
Dog agility, a dynamic and engaging sport, is rapidly gaining traction among enthusiasts in South Africa. Philip and Duke are no strangers to international competition, having previously represented the country at the 2019 World Agility Championships in the Netherlands, where they achieved an impressive 18th place out of over 180 talented dogs from around the globe.
Since an article highlighting their achievements in 2020, Philip and Duke have continued their remarkable journey, competing annually across all six national regions in SA (“Local man and dog off to Belgium”, DistrictMail, 3 February 2020).
Their dedication has resulted in an astounding 17 overall trophies added to the four already secured before 2020. Duke’s exceptional talent and consistency have seen him qualify for the world championships every year since 2019. However, Philip and Duke have strategically chosen to attend this year’s prestigious event in Switzerland
Their dominance on the national stage is further underscored by the addition of nine more South African champion titles since 2019, building on their previous championship win.
“Duke has achieved four Grand Champion titles and two Elite Champion titles, solidifying his position as one of the top agility dogs in the country,” said Philip. Remarkably, they are on the cusp of achieving unprecedented milestones, nearing their fifth and sixth Grand Champion titles and their third Elite Champion title – feats no other dog has ever accomplished in SA.
Philip and Duke maintain a rigorous weekly training schedule and, in addition to the national competitions, actively participate in club trials within the Western Province and Boland regions
Qualifying for the world championships demands significant dedication and skill A dog must attend at least three trials nationwide and accumulate enough points to secure a top qualifying position.
“Duke has not only met this requirement every year, but has consistently excelled, qualifying in first place and earning the title of South African champion or double South African champion for the past three consecutive years,” Philip said
The selection to represent one’s country on the international stage is a significant honour, reflecting countless hours of rigorous training and unwavering commitment.
For Philip and Duke this journey involves daily training sessions and participation in various workshops led by both local and international agility experts. Their competitive schedule is demanding, including one or two single-day competitions each month, alongside five intense three-day national competitions annually This dedication often involves travelling thousands of kilometres across the country
Philip’s commitment extends beyond handling Duke; he maintains an extensive personal fitness programme to ensure he is in peak physical condition to complement Duke’s agility. Duke, in turn, receives the best nutrition in carefully measured portions to maintain his optimal weight and benefits from regular veterinary check-ups to guarantee he is in prime condition for competition.
For many dog-agility handlers worldwide representing their country at the annual World Championships, typically held in the Northern Hemisphere, is a lifelong ambition.
However, for the South African team the journey to these international events is often a costly undertaking, making them heavily reliant on the generosity of sponsors to realise their dreams.
Supporters eager to follow Philip and Duke’s progress at the 2025 IFCS World Agility Championships will be able to watch the event live on YouTube. An active blog will also provide updates and insights into the competition.
The South African agility community sincerely hopes that individuals and businesses will consider assisting the pair with sponsorship by calling 072 865 8863.
Philip and Duke in action during a competition
Philip and Duke have won numerous prizes over the last few years
VGK-kerkkoor sing ATKV-goud los
Jamey Gordon
Die koor van die Verenigende kerk Macassar het goud in die ATKVSuidoosterfees se koorkompetisie losgesing.
Die plaaslike koor is nadat hulle verlede Sondag (4 Mei) harte met hul stemme verower het, as wenner van die afdeling vir kerkkore aangewys.
“Dit was ’n geweldige verrassing vir die koor, maar die lede is in ekstase oor die prestasie,” het die dirigent, Roger Rooi-Horne, gesê.
Die koor het in die kompetisie een gewyde lied en een sekulêre lied opgevoer. Hul gewyde keuse was die bekende ou gesang “Blye versekering”
Die sekulêre lied was ’n Suid-Afrikaanse medley waarin hulle vyf bekende liedere met gepaste bewegings gesing het.
Die medley het begin met “Jantjie kom huis toe”, waarna dit oorgegaan het na “Al lê die berge nog so blou”, gevolg deur “Bobbejaan klim die berg” en “Daar kom die Alibama”, en hulle het uiteindelik afgesluit met “Akkedissie”.
Op die vraag wat die oorwinning beteken, het Rooi-Horne gesê: “’n Kerkkoor is hoofsaaklik gewoond daaraan om by eredienste op te tree. Hul bestaan wentel meestal om oefeninge en die weeklikse optrede tydens die erediens. Daarom was dit ’n unieke ontwikkeling toe die
ATKV-Suidoosterfees vir die eerste keer in sy 22-jarige geskiedenis ’n afdeling vir kerkkore ingestel het. Hierdie oorwinning is dus besonder spesiaal, aangesien ons die eerste wenners van die Kerkkoor-afdeling in die geskiedenis van hierdie roemryke korekompetisie is.”
Volgens Rooi-Horne bestaan die Verenigende kerk-koor van Macassar al langer as 43 jaar en pronk met ’n merkwaardige geskiedenis, met sommige stigterslede wat steeds sing.
Die koor bestaan tans uit 40 aktiewe lede, en elkeen vervul ’n belangrike rol. Hulle verdien spesiale erkenning, want hulle word geleer om “altyd mooi te bly”.
“[Die VGK Macassar] is ’n singende gemeente. Ons is geseën met ’n predikant
Musical time travel to yesteryear
A Trip Down Memory Lane, the popular tribute show by James Marais (pictured) and Monique Cassells, will return to the stage of The Drama Factory on Sunday 1 June at 16:00 The show features songs by the artists you know and love from the 1950s to the 1980s, like Elvis Presley, the Beatles, Cliff Richard, the Everly Brothers, Cher, the Platters and Creedence Clearwater Revival, Marilyn Monroe, Roy Orbison, ABBA and Queen It is a mini-theatrical experience, featuring the dynamic vocal and visual performances of Marais and Cassells, alternating as a duo and individual performers with multiple costume changes throughout The pair have become well-known for their “oldies” music tribute shows since they began performing together in 2009. A Trip Down Memory Lane provides the kind of fun, colourful and entertaining show that audiences have come to expect from the duo The show will leave audience members with a smile on their face and a song in their heart by the end. Tickets cost R200 (standard) and R180 (pensioners and scholars) Book online at www thedramafactory co za
Shakespeare with an African twist at wine estate
Experience a powerful meeting of classical literature and contemporary African artistry at Vergenoegd Löw Wine Estate in Faure on Friday 30 May
My Lover Swears: Sonnets and Song is an intimate one-night-only performance that reinterprets Shakespeare’s timeless sonnets through African song, storytelling and spoken word. The evocative performance features two leading South African voices, acclaimed singer-songwriter and Sama nominee Tholwana Dyosopu and award-winning poet, playwright and performer Siphokazi Jonas Together they bring new life and language to the Bard’s enduring works Dyosopu rose to fame as a teenager after winning SA’s Got Talent in 2014. Her debut EP 2.0.1.5 received critical acclaim and a Sama nomination for Best Pop Album.
Jonas is known for her groundbreaking stage production #WeAreDyingHere, which was later adapted into a Safta-winning short film. Her recent collection of poetry, Weeping Becomes a River, was the 2024 Book Lounge Book of the Year. Following the performance, guests will enjoy a Cape heritage-inspired threecourse dinner, paired with award-winning wines from Vergenoegd Löw, crafted by rising star winemaker Vusi Dalicuba. Wines will be available for purchase at special event pricing
Siphokazi Jonas (pictured) and Tholwana Dyosopu will mesmerise the audience in My Lover Swears: Sonnets and Song, a reinterpretation of Shakespeare’s timeless sonnets through African song, storytelling, and spoken word
The event runs from 18:00 to 22:00. The cost of R1 000 per person includes a glass of wine on arrival, the live performance, and the three-course dinner. Online booking is essential at https:// vergenoegd.co.za.
wat musiek kan lees en ook’n kranige saksofoon-speler is. Grootliks is die groot rol om jou musiek en sang te geniet en jou alles te gee, en die groot doel is altyd – sing tot eer van ons God,” het die dirigent bygevoeg
Die kerkkoor het verlede jaar aan die Gemeenskapskoor-afdeling deelgeneem, waarin hulle teen ’n jeugkoor – wat dit verdien het om te wen – moes sing Die grootste les wat hulle met dié deelname geleer het, was om aan die beoordelaars se kritiek oor waar om te verbeter, te werk. “Hierdie kritiek het ons gehelp om vir die 2025-kompetisie te verbeter. Een aspek was die keuse van liedere – ons het ons liedere volgens die terugvoer aangepas. Die grootste ervaring in 2024
was om te leer en te verbeter, en dít was ons hoofdoel in 2025,” het Rooi-Horne gesê Rooi-Horne, wat reeds op die ouderdom van 18 die Verenigende kerk Eersterivier se koor afgerig het, het in 2007 die jongste wenner in die geskiedenis van die ATKV-Suidoosterfees se koorkompetisie geword toe hy die afdeling gewen het. Hy het hierdie prestasie in 2015 herhaal met The Church of the Resurrection-kerkkoor en weer 10 jaar later – in 2025 – met die VGK Macassar-kerkkoor Rooi-Horne ag homself ’n harde werker wat glo dat harde werk sukses bring. Hy het spesiale en ekstra oefeninge gereël om aan die koor se fyner tegnieke te werk en baie opofferings saam met elke koorlid gemaak. Rooi-Horne het hul dankbaarheid vir die ondersteuning van die gemeenskap, wat in hul trots en vreugde deel, uitgespreek. “Bly nederig; moet jouself nooit beter ag as ander nie. Loof die Here, bly mooi en respekteer mekaar altyd,” is die boodskap is wat hy uitstuur •Die koor bied op Sondag 16November om 14:00 ’n Kore-gala met top-kore en hoëprofielgaste in die Hoërskool Macassar-saal aan. Almal is welkom om die sanggeleentheid by te woon. Enige geldelike skenkings sal waardeer word. Verder werk die koor hard aan sy droom om in 2026 aan die Wêreldkoorspele in Nieu-Seeland deel te neem
VACANCY BULLETIN
EXCITING OPPORTUNITY FOR PEOPLE WHO WANT TO MAKE A DIFFERENCE
DEPARTMENT OF AGRICULTURE
LABORATORY ASSISTANT: POST-MORTEM AND PARASITOLOGY (STELLENBOSCH)
Salary: R 193 359 - R 227 766 per annum (Salary level 4)
Component: Post-Mortem and Parasitology Programme 4
Enquiries person: Dr A Avenant at (021) 808 7533
Reference number: AGR 39/2025
Job purpose: The Department of Agriculture, Western Cape Government has an opportunity for a Lab Assistant to assist with post-mortem (PM) examinations and related operations in the post-mortem section of the Western Cape Provincial Veterinary Laboratory
Requirements: Grade 12 (or equivalent qualification)
Recommendation: Appropriate experience
Key performance areas: General and specialised cleaning in the pathology section of the laboratory including the removal of general and biological waste • Assisting veterinarians with animal handling during post-mortem examinations • Disposal and composting of carcasses • Provide clean and sterilized instruments for post-mortem examinations and perform stock taking
Competencies: Skills needed: Self-motivated • Good interpersonal skills • Good listening • Record keeping • Physical fitness Reliable and good communication (written and verbal)
NB: Applicants from relevant local communities will receive preferences The selection process will be guided by the EE targets of the employing department
To apply, please complete an application form (Z 83) and current CV (5 pages maximum) together with copies of ID Academic qualifications and proof of other requirements as indicated in the advertisement The post being applied for and the reference number must be clearly indicated on the Z83 application form
To submit your application there are 3 methods in which you can apply please only use 1 of the following: 1 Hand deliver your application for Attention: Western Cape Government Jobs, 44 Gannet Street Pelican Heights, Cape Town (From Monday to Friday between 07:00am to 17:00pm); Or 2 Post your application for Attention: Western Cape Government Jobs PO Box 22432 Fish Hoek; Or 3. Email your application to westerncape@respond co za Clearly indicate the reference number of post in email subject line and ensure attachments are in the appropriate format (MS Word or PDF) Applications not submitted on or before the closing date as well as faxed copies will not be considered If you did not receive any correspondence within 3 months of closing date consider your application as unsuccessful
Die koor van die Verenigende kerk Macassar in sang-aksie tydens die ATKV-Suidoosterfees se koorkompetisie
Stand-out performance for Cape Winelands surfers
For the first time, the Cape Winelands Surf Riders masters team has emerged victorious at South Africa’s longest-running surfing event, “the Vic Bay Quad ” This competition, held in memory of its founder John Pfaff, took place over the first weekend of May at Victoria Bay The five provinces competing were Cape Town, Cape Winelands (CW), Eden, Nelson Mandela Bay and Buffalo City Each team consisted of 19 surfers from open division to over sixty; CW entered a 65-year-old competitor. The country’s most consistent wave at Vic Bay didn’t disappoint and there were very good competition conditions ranging from five feet on the Friday to solid conditions the Saturday and some mellow but clean conditions on the finals day. Loghann Tilsley from Cape Winelands became the youngest competitor to ever win the event at the age of 15 and Anastasia Venter won the ladies division for Cape Winelands back to back Also reaching the finals and adding major points for the overall team standings: Mikhail Thompson - second under-35; Mark Jardine - third under-40; and Geoff Johnston - third under-60 veteran. The “gees” and camaraderie of the team was also next level, the CW team is a tightknit group that surfed together, stayed together and supported their team mates together throughout the event A big thanks to CW management, Eden Board Riders and Surfing South Africa for organising and hosting such an amazing legendary event over three magical days.
Spirited athlete’s triumphant return
Yaseen Gaffar
Chris van Zyl, a 48-year-old resident of Somerset West, proved that it’s never too late to reignite a passion for athletics, as he delivered a stellar performance at the South African Masters Athletics Championships held in Oudtshoorn at the beginning of May.
Van Zyl, who once graced the track and field at Hottentots-Holland High School as a sprinter and discus thrower during his high school days returned to the sport three and a half years ago after a hiatus due to an eye injury that made other sports difficult.
Introduced to the throws pentathlon by a friend and finding guidance through coaching at Bellville Athletics Club, Van Zyl has embraced the challenging discipline that combines shot put, discus, hammer throw, javelin, and weight throw. Athletes in this event accumulate points across all five disciplines, with the highest tally claiming victory Van Zyl also competes in individual events in the same throwing categories.
His dedication to the sport is evident in his rigorous training schedule of five days a week, competing regularly throughout the year under the Western Province Masters Association and Athletics South Africa. Earlier this year, at the Western Province Masters Championships held in Greenpoint, Van Zyl showcased his talent, securing a silver medal in the pentathlon and gold medals in other individual events, setting the stage for his national success.
While 2023 marked his debut at the national championships where he earned a bronze medal, injury sidelined him in 2024.
This year’s championships in Oudtshoorn marked his triumphant return. Despite challenging conditions, Van Zyl drew upon his experience and unwavering focus to achieve remarkable results,
Warrior Weekend skenk geld aan HS Grabouw
Die skilderagtiges roetes in en om Grabouw het lewe gekry toe families, fietsryers en buitelugliefhebbers op Saterdag 12 en Sondag 13 April vir die Weekend Warrior: Grabouw, ’n tweedaagse viering van bergfietsry, padwedlope en gemeenskapsgees, byeengekom het
Met 397 inskrywings en ’n lewendige atmosfeer het die geleentheid weer eens bewys sport kan verenig, inspireer en ophef Weekend Warrior is ’n familie-gefokusde fietsren wat ontwerp is om ’n liefde vir fietsry en die buitelug te bevorder Deelnemers van alle vaardigheidsvlakke – van kleuters tot ervare ryers – is in ’n professionele fietsrendorp kompleet met tente, warm storte, ’n kosplein en die immergewilde Chill Zone gevul met sitsakke, musiek en gelag verwelkom Tru-Cape Fruit Marketing, die geleentheid se hoofborg, het die byeenkoms gebruik om aan die gemeenskap terug te gee deur R50 000 aan die Hoërskool Grabouw te skenk en sodoende hul verbintenis tot die ondersteuning van onderwys en ontwikkeling in die streek te herbevestig “Two-A-Day, ons pakhuis in Grabouw, is een van die grootste werkgewers in die omgewing,” het Conrad Fick, die bemarkingsdirekteur by Tru-Cape, gesê
“Die Weekend Warrior-MTB-ren is ons manier om aan die plaaslike gemeenskap terug te gee en te help om geleenthede vir skoolkinders in die vallei te skep Dit bevorder ook plaaslike toerisme – die geleentheid lok honderde besoekers na Grabouw ” Vanjaar se geleentheid het broodnodige geld vir die skool ingesamel, wat die skenking sal gebruik om ’n ou
clinching gold medals in the throws pentathlon, hammer throw, and javelin, and a bronze medal in the shot put.
“I've always been competitive,” Van Zyl stated “I push myself, and want to test myself It’s obviously good to know that hard work pays off.”
Looking ahead, Van Zyl has set his sights on representing South Africa at the World Masters Championships.
“The next goal is that I’d love to go to a world championships at some stage, if all goes well. My immediate focus is on the next SA masters and to do well there. I want to continue training as often as I can to push myself to get some records that are within reach,” he said.
Balancing his athletic pursuits with his professional life as a project coordinator for skills development, Van Zyl also finds time to give back to his alma mater. He occasionally trains at the Hottentots Holland High School nets and enjoys helping to coach discus to young athletes, describing it as a “very rewarding experience”
laboratorium in ’n ontwerpklaskamer om te skep Die skool se dansateljee is in 2022 opgeknap
“Ons is een van die min skole – die enigste in Grabouw – wat op kuns fokus,” het die skoolhoof, Heroldt Bezuidenhout, gesê “Dit verg ’n gemeenskap om ’n kind groot te maak, maar daardie gemeenskap benodig ondersteuning Ons vennootskap met Tru-Cape vervul ’n noodsaaklike rol om ons te help om werklike geleenthede vir ons leerders te skep ”
Ten spyte van ligte reën die naweek, was die geesdrif hoog Onderwysers het as baanbeamptes by die pret aangesluit en families het blywende herinneringe geskep – veral op die gewilde 10-km-pretrit, waar kinders en ouers saam oor die eindstreep gery het
“Vir my is die hartroerendste deel altyd om die kleintjies te sien wat die 10-km-rit saam met hul ouers voltooi,” het Bezuidenhout bygevoeg “Dit is die beste deel – om families te sien wat saam herinneringe maak ”
Die Weekend Warrior-roete het getrou aan sy inklusiewe missie vir alle vaardighede voorsiening gemaak Ryers kon kies tussen die brons-, silwer- of goue roetes – elk met sy eie mengsel wingerdpaaie, appelboorde en skilderagtige dele rondom die Eikenhofdam
Hoewel die afstande korter is as sommige ander soortgelyke renne, is daar geen tekort aan uitdaging op die enkelbane of die opdraandes nie, het Shaun Glover van Red Cherry Events, die organiseerder, bygevoeg
“Dit is ideaal vir beginners tot intermediêre ryers wat op soek is na hul eerste fietsrenervaring ”
Chris van Zyl with some of the medals he won at the SA Masters Athletics Championships
SPORT
Woensdag,14Mei2025
SirLowrians looiLeopards
Oortuigende oorwinning
Sir Lowrians het Saterdag ( 10 Mei) ’n kliniese vertoning gelewer toe hulle die Gordon’s Bay Leopards met ’n oorweldigende 8-50 van die veld gevee het en hul status as gunstelinge in die wedstryd in die Noordelike liga bevestig het
Sir Low het vinnig op die voorgrond getree en reeds in die openingsminute die doellyn ná volgehoue aanvalle oorgesteek Teen rustyd het hulle reeds drie drieë gedruk, terwyl die Leopards ’n strafskop oorgeklits het (19-3) Ten spyte van die telling het die
Ayanda Makhundayi, kaptein van Sir Lowrians, gooi die perfekte aangee uit
helfte groot karakter gewys
Die veld in Gordonsbaai was ietwat glibberig weens oornag- en vroegoggendreën, wat die hantering van die bal soms bemoeilik het, maar die weer het goed gehou tydens die wedstryd en vinnige spel moontlik gemaak
In die tweede helfte het Sir Lowrians sy voorsprong verder uitgebrei met nog vyf drieë Tervin Britz het met ’n driekuns uitgeblink, terwyl Randy Brinkhuis twee keer gaan druk het en drie skoppe deur die pale gestuur het
Jadrian Petersen, Ashley Stephanus en Cheraldwin Damens het elk ook ’n drie aangeteken en Lincoln Koopman het twee doelskoppe bygevoeg
GB Leopards het laat in die wedstryd ’n troosdrie behaal nadat Sir Lowrians tot 13 spelers verminder is weens geelkaarte vir ongedissiplineerde spel by afbreekpunte
Al het die tuisspan tye van vasberadenheid getoon, was dit ’n afgeronde en oorheersende vertoning van SirLowrians, wat hul aanspraak op kampioenskapstatus verder versterk het
Vir Gordon’s Bay Leopards het Marlin Sauls ’n strafskop aangeteken en Cheslin Julies het hul enigste drie
gedruk
In Super Liga A het die Helderbergrugbyklub erg drooggemaak teen die swak span van die Universiteit van Wes-Kaapland
Die reënweer het die span van Strand kwaai geraak Hulle kon net nie aan die gang kom nie en moes aanskou hoe UWK sy eerste oorwinning van die seisoen behaal Die rustydtelling was 8-5 in UWK se guns ná ’n drie en ’n strafdoel teenoor ’n drie vir Helderberg deur Christian van Zanten
In die tweede helfte het Berge se puik haker, Mauritz Swart, twee keer gedruk, terwyl sy losskakel, Brendan Venter, een verdoel het Intussen het UWK se akkurate skopper drie strafdoele en ’n doelskop oorgeskop en ’n drie gedruk vir ’n 24-17-sege
Vir Berge het sy kaptein en flank Jody Labuschagne blink vertoon en in die lynstane oorheers Verder het die agtsteman Erhard Lambrecht en flanke Van Zanten en Blaine Skelton asook Swart uitgeblink Helderberg moet waak teen onderskatting van hul teenstanders as hulle nie weer wil swak speel nie
Ander uitslae:
– SLA: St George’s 10-52 Maties
– SLC: Strand 5-23 Violets, Rangers 20-19
All Saints, Gardens 23-12 Strand United
– Noordelike liga: Blue Stars 15-23 Raithby Universals
Bepalings vir Saterdag 17 Mei:
–
SLA: Helderberg t SK Walmers (Groenpunt), St George’s t Tygerberg (Gustrouw)
– SLB: Bellville t Macassar (Bellville)
– SLC: Strand United t Young Peoples (Abattoir), All Saints t Delft (Helderzicht)
– Noordelike Liga: Sir Lowrians t Stellenbosch-Coronations (Stellenbosch), Gordon’s Bay Pioneers t. Windmeul (Paarl), en Raithby Universals t Excelsior (Raithby)
Nathan Williams maak gereed om nog ’n vinnige lopie vir Sir Lowrians aan te pak Foto’s: Peter Bee
Ayanda Makhundayi lei die jaagtog na die bal in modderige toestande.