DistrictMail & Helderberg Gazette - E-Edition - 7 May 2025
Young trio learns more on cheetahs
Yaseen Gaffar
Two passionate Grade 4 learners of Newberry House Montessori School, Niquita Els and Ivy Prinsloo, along with Ivy’s little sister Lia, embarked on an inspiring school project focused on cheetahs, culminating in an educational visit to Cheetah Outreach in Somerset West.
Driven by their fascination for these magnificent creatures, nine-year-olds Niquita and Ivy chose cheetahs as the subject
of their project, eager to delve deeper into their world, particularly the crucial conservation efforts aimed at protecting them.
Their visit to Cheetah Outreach provided a unique opportunity to interact with the incredible animals first-hand and gain valuable insight into the challenges they face in the wild. The experience clearly left a lasting impression on the young conservationists.
“They are really fascinating creatures,” declared Niquita, a sentiment echoed by Ivy, highlighting the importance of their
Word ’n bloedheld vir die komende winter
Die winter bied unieke uitdagings vir bloedinsameling – seisoenale siektes soos verkoue en griep, minder skenkingsklinieke vanweë skoolvakansies en minder mense wat in die koue uitgaan. Die Wes-Kaapse Bloeddiens (WKBS) begin daarom sy jaarlikse winterveldtog met die tema “Helde” om hierdie tekort te bekamp. Met die boodskap “Tree aan om ’n held te wees” herinner die WKBS ons dat helde nie kappies dra nie, maar eenvoudig hul moue oprol om lewens te red. As spesiale dankie sal die bloeddiens van Mei tot Augustus beperkte weergawe “heldesokkies” aan skenkers gee – ’n hartlike teken van waardering vir hul lewensreddende bydrae. Enigeen tussen 16 en 75 jaar oud, wat minstens 50 kg weeg en in goeie gesondheid verkeer, kan ’n held word deur bloed te skenk. Besoek wcbs.org.za of stuur ’n WhatsAppboodskap aan 060 549 7244 vir nog inligting.
visit, “to learn more, especially about conservation efforts”.
Beyond their personal learning journey, the girls are determined to use their project to make a difference. They are passionate about raising awareness on the plight of cheetahs and the devastating impact of human activities on their populations.
“We want to create awareness for people, as it’s heartbreaking that these animals are getting killed," Ivy emphasised, articulating both girls’ heartfelt concern for the future of these vulnerable animals. “Awareness is important to us.”
Following the visit, the learners expressed a clear understanding of the role they have to play. “We need to start working with conservationists to help prevent the extinction of these marvelous animals,” said Niquita with no less passion.
“Children should be educated so we can spread awareness; we are not too young to make a difference. I think it is really cool that dogs are trained to work with our farmers to save the cheetah and protect farm animals. If we all work together, we can make a difference.”
Ivy added that cheetahs are beautiful animals. “We have
learnt so many interesting facts from Dawn and Toni at the Cheetah Outreach.
“Did you know, for instance, that a cheetah’s head has 200 spots and 2 000 altogether? I think all children should have a chance to experience this place and gain knowledge about the endangered species it seeks to protect.”
Dawn Glover, manager of Cheetah Outreach, acknowledged the importance of the children’s project. “Our nat-
ural biodiversity is not just a resource; it is our children's inheritance. If we fail to cultivate awareness now, future politicians and businessmen may lack the emotional bond necessary to prioritise the cheetah’s preservation,” she explained.
“By providing small groups with first-hand experiences in conservation, we aim to create a future population that is not only well-informed but deeply invested in protecting its natural heritage.”
Dawn Glover, manager of Cheetah Outreach in Somerset West, with Ivy (9) and Lia (7) Prinsloo, and Niquita Els (9). Photo: Yaseen Gaffar
The learners had an up-close-and-personal interaction with some of the cheetahs.
Local cheesemaker awarded
Agri-Expo has awarded 31-year-old Pamella Dzindikwa, head of production at Puglia Cheese in Somerset West, the second annual Hollard Game Changer Award.
The announcement was made at the South African Dairy Awards, held at Eensgezind in Durbanville last week.
The award includes a cash prize of R50 000, sponsored by Hollard.
Now in its 192nd year, the SA Dairy Championships is Africa’s biggest and oldest dairy competition. Hosted by Agri-Expo since 1834, it recognises and rewards excellence in dairy production across the country.
According to Breyton Milford, general manager of Agri-Expo, the Game Changer Award recognises young professionals who are already making a meaningful impact in the dairy industry.
“This award acknowledges their achievements and encourages them to keep pushing boundaries,” says Milford.
FROM CLEANER TO INDUSTRY LEADER
Dzindikwa has been part of the award-winning Puglia Cheese for nine years. Starting her career as a cleaner, she rose through the ranks to production manager, contributing significantly to the local cheese manaufacturer’s success as a household brand.
Through hard work and dedication, she mastered the art of spun cheeses, including burrata, and played a key role in expanding Puglia’s range to include mature cheddar, montasio, fontina, taleggio, and manchego.
Under her guidance, Puglia has crafted
multiple awards at the SA Dairy Awards and the Aurora International Taste Challenge. Her innovation was demonstrated when she single-handedly developed a new cheese, Somerset, named in honour of Puglia’s location.
Beyond production, Dzindikwa is a mentor, dedicating herself to training new cheesemakers and fostering a culture of excellence.
“I’m incredibly grateful for this recognition,” says Dzindikwa. “I’ve had mentors who believed in me, and I hope to pass that on. The dairy industry has changed my life, and I believe it can do the same for others.”
Says Andries Wiese, Hollard’s national business development manager: “Progress and development are essential for any industry. With this award we believe we tap into the energy and skill of these incredibly diverse and talented young individuals and create a sustainable future for the dairy industry.”
The 2025 SA Dairy Championships drew a record 1 110 entries from 77 producers. A panel of 103 judges from 47 companies named 114 products as SA champions and awarded 30 products the Qualité mark – the only official mark of excellence in the industry.
The Product of the Year title was awarded to a mascarpone with fig and pecan nuts, made by RFG Foods in Simondium for Woolworths.
The SA Dairy Championships is supported by platinum partners IMCD South Africa and dsm-firmenich, and others.
For the full results and more information on the awards, visit https://dairychamps.co.za.
Agri-Expo honoured 31-year-old Pamella Dzindikwa, head of production at Puglia Cheese, with the second annual Hollard Game Changer Award along with a cash prize of R50 000. From left are Andries Wiese (Hollard national business development manager), Ursula-Ann Ostuni (Puglia Cheese), Pamella Dzindikwa (Puglia Cheese) and Breyton Milford (Agri-Expo general manager) at the SA Dairy Awards.
The circus is planning on coming back to town Make your mother proud and #sayNO totheshow
Why? Currently 51 countries have banned animal use in circuses in en�rety or have imposed a limited ban, such as the use of wild animals. Although circus personnel maintain that circuses take good care of their animals, some experts assert that the way in which circus animals are constantly confined, o�en for the en�re day except when they are performing results in an environment that denies animals essen�al physical needs such as exercise, as well as social and ecological freedoms. We have been unable to find an animal welfare organiza�on worldwide, large or small, and regardless of the nature of their focus, which approves of animal use in the circus.
There is one animal circus in South Africa, where in par�cular, the wild animals perform for under five minutes of a 90-minute show; a clear indica�on that the show focus is on the talented and awe- inspiring human acts. And for this, circus animals spend months travelling in small, bare cages. The stress of con�nued confinement, as well as the transporta�on, result in long term suffering. Cap�ve bred animals means just that; cap�ve bred lions and �gers are not domes�cated. And wild animals doing tricks is not the same as teaching Fido to beg for a biscuit or walk on two legs. A lack of appropriate social interac�on, reduc�on in �me spent foraging and the restricted freedom to perform natural behaviours represent stressors for these cap�ve animals. No ma�er how well they are treated, there is inherent abuse of circus animals, because they are deprived of all that is normal and natural. It is not how they are trained, it is that they are trained at all, when we have so many entertainment op�ons, and there is no educa�onal value in seeing animals not being themselves.
Beauty Without Cruelty has been ac�vely advoca�ng against animal entertainment because the circus is aimed at children, and normalises animal exploita�on for a few minutes' entertainment. www.bwcsa.co.za
New heights for recovered athlete
Jamey Gordon
The Helderberg’s gravity-defying high jumper Breyton Poole has soared to new heights!
He was crowned champion after winning the men’s high jump at the 2025 Athletics South Africa (ASA) Senior Track and Field Championships, held in Potchefstroom from Thursday 24 to Sunday 27 April.
“I felt a huge sense of relief after clearing the bar and realising I won the competition,” the elated athlete said, reflecting on the years-long pursuit of the remarkable feat. “[The victory] was particularly emotional considering my comeback from a significant injury setback to claim my first senior title.”
The 25-year-old Somerset West resident, determined to live his dream, said his goal heading into the competition was simply to show his mettle as an inherent competitor, with the crowning glory as the ultimate accomplishment. He reckoned the victory signified his trajectory to the top despite recent challenges in his athletics journey.
“This moment is massive for me, finally something I can tick off on my bucket list.”
The golden win is especially sweet for Poole, having only previously earned silver and bronze, and he now proudly stands as the region’s first titleholder.
Commenting on the pressures to perform, especially self-imposed, he noted that the best way to prevent him from buckling is to block out the noise and focus on what he can control: specifically training, diet and sleep, which are essential to success.
Moreover, the dedicated high-jump sensation remained grateful for the God-given opportunity to be able to compete and showcase his talent.
Leading up to his outstanding clearance of 2,20 m, he recalled relying on his mental approach, which involves visualising a successful jump before the attempt. “For me, speaking things into existence is key. For instance, during training I often stand before the bar and envision my run-up and jump over it.”
Poole said he drew inspiration from
many athletes, especially high-jump competitor Keagan Fourie, who has played a valued part in his athletics career through his unwavering support and guidance on the field. To Poole he is an admirable example of sportsmanship; the embodiment of a champion.
With this new title under his belt he strives to remain humble in his victory and is motivated to become the best version of his athletic self.
Furthermore, Poole hoped to inspire other aspiring athletes by demonstrating kindness and integrity, and by contributing to their development through coaching clinics and guidance.
“Looking ahead, the goal is to compete at the Olympics, among the best of the best,” he pointed out. He also has his sights set on qualifying for his first World Championships in September.
For now, the athlete is moving full steam ahead with preparations to compete in Europe in a few months’ time as well as other upcoming international events in hopes of boosting his ranking.
Poole expressed his heartfelt thanks to God for the opportunity, to his parents and coach for their unwavering support, and everyone else who has been a significant part of his journey to success.
Luister môre by imbizo
Die Macassargemeenskapspolisiëringsforum (GPF) bied môre (Donderdag 8 Mei) ’n imbizo in dié gebied aan. Die plaaslike gemeenskap sal tydens die byeenkoms die geleentheid kry om die Macassar-polisie te raadpleeg in verband met probleme weens misdaad. Die openbare vergadering word vanaf 10:00 tot 13:00 in die ou Macassar-gemeenskapsaal gehou.
Die plaaslike GPF nooi alle inwoners en sake-eienaars van Macassar uit, om deel te neem aan die gesprekke rakende veiligheid en polisiëring in die Macassargebied.
The Helderberg’s high-jump sensation Breyton Poole in action at last year’s African Champs. Photo: Supreme Athletics Photography
Praatjie oor skryf en dig
Stokperdjieskrywers- en digters word genooi na ’n praatjie en bespreking deur Ernie Mellet (foto), ’n bekende opleier van beginnerskrywers, in die saal van die Somerset-Wes-biblioteek op Saterdag 17 Mei van 09:30 tot 12:00. Die tema is “Waar kom stories (en gedigte) vandaan en waarom is hulle soos kolwyntjies?” Daar sal informeel gesels word oor hoe stories en gedigte aanmekaar gesit word en wat die bestanddele is. Alles word gedoen aan die hand van Mellet se nuwe handboek, Die Avontuur van Skryf en Dig, ’n Gids vir Stokperdjieskrywers en Skryfgroepe. Toegang is gratis, vraetyd word ingeruim en daar is ook ’n boek-uitverkoping. Bespreek jou plek voor Donderdag 15 Mei by 079 333 0055 of erniemellet@gmail.com.
Young maestros set to mesmerise
The City of Cape Town’s Urban Mobility Directorate hereby advises residents and road users in the eastern region of the intended construction of traffic calming measures in the areas listed below This work will enhance pedestrian safety, particularly around schools where the highest concentration of vulnerable road users are typically encountered. The statutory public commenting process is an important aspect of this undertaking. Although it is the City’s intention to implement calming measures at all the sites listed via link below, there are cost-related variables which are still unknown at this point. Implementation will therefore be subject to availability of funding
Interested and affected parties can view the designs and the list of affected streets/ roads on www.capetown.gov.za/haveyoursay
Affected areas:
• Somerset West • Khayelitsha • Blue Downs • Mitchells Plain
• Eerste River • Philippi • Kuils River • Blackheath
• Mandalay • Mfuleni
In terms of Section 17 of the Local Government: Municipal Systems Act, Act 32 of 2000, the public and interested parties or groups are given the opportunity to submit comments, recommendations or input on the traffic calming measures to the municipality from Friday 2 May 2025 until Monday 2 June 2025.
Comments, recommendations and input may be submitted by: (quote reference 210242506)
Email: RIM.PTI.Communication@capetown.gov.za
Online: www.capetown.gov.za/haveyoursay or scan the QR code
Written submission: Public Participation Unit, 3rd Floor Podium Block, Civic Centre, 12 Hertzog Boulevard, Cape Town, 8001
Subcouncils:
Subcouncil 8 - Municipal Offices, Corner Fagan Street and Main Road, Strand Subcouncil 10 - Khayelitsha Training Centre, Corner Lwandle and Phendula Crescents, Khayelitsha
• Melton Rose Public Library, Corner Fynbos and Melkbos Streets, Melton Rose
• Somerset West Public Library, Corner Victoria and Andries Pretorius Streets, Somerset West
• Khayelitsha Public Library, Bonga Drive, Site B, Khayelitsha
• Westridge Public Library, Civic Centre, Westpoort Road, Westridge
• Tafelsig Public Library, Corner Kilimanjaro and Pyrenees Streets, Tafelsig
• Town Centre Public Library, Mitchells Plain Town Centre, Symphony Walk, Mitchells Plain
• Nyanga Public Library, Freedom Square, Nyanga
• Eerste River Public Library, Corner Bobs Way and Beverley Street, Eersterivier
• Lentegeur Public Library, Civic Centre, Corner Merridale Avenue and Melkbos Street, Lentegeur
• Kuils River Public Library, Corner Carinus and Van der Stel Streets, Kuilsrivier
• Mfuleni Public Library, Mfuleni Town Council, Main Road, Mfuleni
• PD Paulse Public Library, Rietvlei Way, Sarepta
• Moses Mabhida Public Library, Tungwana Road, Site C, Khayelitsha
Special assistance will be given to people who cannot read or write, people with disabilities and other disadvantaged groups who are unable to submit written comments to have their inputs or comments recorded and submitted to the municipality Contact the Public Participation Unit, Mbuthokazi Kubashe on 021 400 9808 or Mbuthokazi.Kubashe@capetown.gov.za if you have any queries on how to submit your comments.
Please note: requests for new traffic calming measures must be submitted via the Subcouncil office concerned.
For technical queries, please contact Nobesuthu Nyati on 021 400 5134 or RIM.PTI.Communication@capetown.gov.za for more information.
LUNGELO MBANDAZAYO CITY MANAGER
CTA93/2025
The Stellenbosch Youth Orchestra (SYO) will present an unforgettable afternoon of music at the serene St Matthew’s Chapel at Somerset College on Sunday (11 May) at 14:00.
The special concert is a fundraiser for the SYO’s first-ever tour to George later this year, an important milestone for the orchestra, which has grown rapidly since its founding in 2023.
May.
What began as a social-impact project of the Stellenbosch University (SU) music department, led by Mario Nel and Pamela Kierman, has blossomed into a vibrant ensemble of 47 passionate young musicians under the dynamic leadership of conductor Reghardt Kühn.
Kühn, whose extensive experience includes conducting the SU Medical Orchestra and teaching brass at Paarl Boys’ High School, has been the driving force behind SYO’s growth and ambition.
“The goal is one day to play in The Concertgebouw in Amsterdam, but for now we start small and build step-by-step to the future we want,” he said.
This spirit is captured in the orchestra’s motto, “The Sound of Tomorrow”.
Beyond its musical aspirations, the SYO is committed to youth development and community engagement. Students are deeply involved in the day-to-day
running of the orchestra, helping to build leadership and organisational skills alongside their musical talents.
Since its inception, SYO has proudly hosted the annual “HearUs” concert at the Endler Hall in Stellenbosch, in support of Hear Us, an NPO that assists individuals with cochlear implants and supports the Cochlear Implant Unit at Tygerberg Hospital.
This partnership reflects SYO’s dedication to making a difference both on and off the stage.
After the concert on 11 May, the orchestra will also be part of in the Prestige Concert at Cape Town City Hall on Sunday 25 May at 15:00, sharing the stage with the Cape Town Philharmonic Youth Orchestra and others, in collaboration with the Choral Celebration Network Foundation.
Tickets for this prestigious event are available via Tixsa.
The SYO invites music lovers, families, and community members to support their journey by attending the concert at Somerset College and sharing in the magic of young South African talent. Tickets are available through Webtickets at R150 each.
For more information on the orchestra, follow the SYO on Facebook and Instagram, or send an email to stellenboschyouthorchestra@gmail.com.
Ballerinas grace Drama Factory stage
Cape Ballet Africa will present a new programme of short works, Intermezzo, at The Drama Factory from Friday 16 to Sunday 25 May. The production is a gentle and cathartic artistic offering from the recently established company, fresh from its debut at the Artscape Opera House in March. Celebrating Tchaikovsky features the composer’s most loved works for ballet, including The Sleeping Beauty, Swan Lake and The Nutcracker. A selection of iconic tunes form the basis for this suite profiling the beautiful artists of Cape Ballet Africa. Desiderata, the much-loved prose poem by writer Max Ehrmann, forms the inspiration for the collection of choreographic works by South African choreographers, with Marcel Meyer, the celebrated South African actor, narrating the evocative and stirring text. Intermezzo will be staged at 19:30 on 16, 17, 23 and 24 May, with matinées at 15:00 and 16:00 on 17, 18, 24 and 25 May. Tickets, at R280 or R260 each, for groups of four people, can be booked online at www.dramafactory.co.za. Photo: Chris Aupais
Embark on a dance adventure
Come With Me, presented by Sume’s Dance Studio, promises to take audiences of the Playhouse Theatre in Somerset West on an iconic adventure through dance until Saturday 10 May. It will take them on a journey – through photographs, music and new horizons – on which a choreographer demonstrates that the most moving stories to dance to are the ones that are already alive in one’s soul. Tickets cost R150 each and can be booked online through Webtickets.
The young musos of the Stellenbosch Youth Orchestra are set to mesmerise with their sound at a concert on 11
Putting in the hard yards
Steven George, the top runner at Strand Athletics Club, was the first to cross the finish line at the False Bay Ultra Marathon from Rooi Els to Gordon’s Bay on Sunday (4 May). George ran the race in under three hours, clocking a time of 2:59:45. At least 1 250 runners entered the popular race, which was held in perfect sunny conditions.
Airmar Offshore Classic hailed
The Gordon’s Bay Boat and Angling Club (GBBAC) has hailed the 2025 Airmar Offshore Classic, held from Saturday 26 April to Friday 2 May, as a resounding triumph.
The event drew 189 anglers across 37 boats for a week of intense competition.
The opening function at the Gordon’s Bay Boat and Angling Club set a lively tone for the event, with participating teams and their supporters filling the venue with anticipation.
The competition saw teams fish for three consecutive days. On the very first day, the boat Nakupenda landed an impressive 115,1 kg tuna, immediately setting a formidable benchmark for the rest of the fleet.
Despite excellent fishing conditions on the subsequent day, including calm seas and abundant tuna, no-one could surpass the day 1 monster catch.
As the boats returned to shore on the final day, the scales closed, confirming Nakupenda’s initial catch as the winning fish. The spirit of camaraderie remained strong throughout the week, culminating in a celebratory prize-giving ceremony on Friday 2 May, where top anglers and teams were recognised.
The GBBAC deemed the 2025 Airmar Offshore Classic a resounding success, highlighting the enthusiasm and competitive spirit of the anglers. Organisers are looking forward to building on this year’s achievements for the 2026 edition of the popular offshore fishing event.
The overall winners of the 2025 Offshore Classic, fishing from the boat Nakupenda, pictured from left is Wilana Oosthuizen (sponsor), Warren Wood (angler), Mickayla Language (angler), Grant Crighton (sponsor), Jomari Groenewald, George Language (angler) and Michael Language (angler).
A group of jovial members of Strand Athletic Club (from left) are Jaco Uys, Rialize Joubert, Jan Botha, Mariette Coning, Rizaan Olivier, Tertia de Waal and Karien Basson.
Ronel Rossouw of Strand Athletics Club claimed second place in the category for women aged 60 to 69. She recorded a time of 5:11:09.
Lisa Alexander placed second in the category for women aged 50 to 59. Her time was 4:35:54.
Marius du Toit with Strand Athletic Club committee members Celia Pienaar (official), Frans Kotze (safety officer of race)and Liezel Matthee (official).
Frans Kotze (chairperson of Strand Athletics Club and race organiser) with Barry Muller.
Anstey Sithole has time for a quick wave as she descends alongside Marelize Pretorius. Running duo Dirk and Elzanne Oosthuizen.
Schalk Smit in full focus during his run.
SPORT
Woensdag, 7 Mei 2025
Derby pulsates
In a pulsating Super League C encounter that went right down to the wire, All Saints snatched a dramatic one-point victory over Strand United at a packed Abattoir Sports Ground on Saturday (3 May).
For the second consecutive week, rugby enthusiasts flocked to the Helderberg venue, underscoring the vibrant health of community rugby in the region.
The Super Leage C match lived up to its billing, delivering a breathtaking spectacle of attacking rugby from the outset. All Saints drew first blood, capitalising on a Strand United error at the line-out close to their own try line. United responded almost immediately with a scintillating try finished off by the talented Angelo Adams, igniting the vocal crowd. United then opted to bring
their powerful forward pack into play, a tactic that yielded another try before half-time, as burly lock forward Zain Gertze powered his way over the whitewash.
Saints managed to cross the line again, taking a slender 12-10 lead into the break.
The second half was a fierce battle of attrition, with both sets of forwards throwing everything into the contest. All Saints held a distinct advantage in the line-outs, disrupting United’s set-pieces.
Despite the tireless efforts of Zane Daniels and Rameez Ramjee, who were outstanding in general play for Strand United, All Saints managed to add two more tries to their tally in the second stanza.
The home team clawed their way back into contention with a try at the death, reducing the deficit to a single point.
Despite enjoying a numerical advantage in the dying seconds, United failed to capitalise, fumbling the ensuing kick-off and bringing a thrilling encounter to a dramatic close, leaving All Saints to celebrate a hard-fought 26-27 victory.
