

Jamey Gordon
Three Helderberg facilities are set for a major development boost as council has allocated funds for the upgrade projects, with cemeteries first in line
Among cemeteries planned for expansion of burial capacity as part of the City of Cape Town’s R45 million upgrade project, is Rusthof Cemetery in Strand Francine Higham, Mayoral Committee member for Community Services and Health, on enquiry confirmed that R15 million of the budget is set aside for the local cemetery, where about 15 000 additional burial sites will be constructed by
The Helderberg region has emerged as a powerhouse in the KFM Best of the Cape 2025 Awards, with local establishments across Somerset West, Grabouw, and surrounding areas securing finalist positions in multiple categories
This exceptional showing demonstrates the area’s thriving business community and diverse offerings that continue to attract both residents and visitors Somerset West leads the charge with an impressive array of finalists spanning various sectors In the Best Bakery category, the town boasts two finalists: Backerei
German Artisan Bakery and Weirdough, showcasing the area’s commitment to quality baked goods and artisanal craftsmanship Both establishments have built loyal followings through their dedication to traditional baking methods and innovative offerings
The renowned Vergelegen Estate represents Somerset West in the Best Wine Farm Experience category, cementing the region’s reputation as a premier wine tourism destination This historic estate, with its centuries-old heritage and worldclass wines, continues to offer visitors exceptional experiences that blend history, viticulture, and hospitality
Somerset West’s Yvette Muller has secured a spot among the top 30 finalists for Mrs South Africa 2025 and is now preparing for the November finals. The mother and businesswoman, who runs Ace Models Helderberg, has spent 21 years in the Helderberg balancing family life with community work Muller views her achievement as representing women who question their worth or ability to pursue new goals later in life, hoping to inspire others juggling family, career, and self-doubt that “purpose has no expiry date” and it’s never too late to step into their power
JameyGordon
“Recognise your inherent worth as a woman deserving of love and respect ”
These words may seem simple, but for one remarkable Macassar woman this realisation became the catalyst for life-altering change
This Women’s Month (August), 54-year-old Sheila Cunningham recalls the moment of clarity, the turning point that catapulted her towards a journey of self-discovery, empowerment and triumph
At just 22 she fled the Northern Cape with nothing but determination, escaping an abusive relationship to build a new life as a single mother in Cape Town
Years of juggling multiple jobs –from house mother to dental assistant, while pursuing her education – transformed Cunningham into the passionate Grade R teacher she is today
Her journey proves that when a woman truly believes in her worth no obstacle is insurmountable
“When my daughter was born her father wasn’t present and didn’t contribute financially
Unable to find work in my hometown of Kenhardt I made the heartbreaking decision to leave her with my parents and move to Cape Town to provide for her
“I found work at a residential facility for intellectually-disabled people in Stikland, where I could also live Later I moved to Strand, and I have called Macassar home for the past 18 years
“My daughter was my only strength during those early, frightening years Giving up was never an option; I had to make it work for her The hardest part was the constant insecurity of being homeless and separated from my baby and family
“By the time I married and had my two boys, I found myself trapped in an abusive relationship I tried leaving my ex-husband countless times, but always forgave and stayed When the abuse extended to my daughter I knew enough was enough My children deserved better than the life we were living That’s when I finally realised my worth as a mother and woman Raised to believe I was worthy of love, I understood abuse was never the life I deserved ”
Boland College while working at crèches and then Macassar Primary School before completing her Grade R Diploma
Walking across that stage to receive her qualification made all the late nights, early mornings and sacrificed quality time with family worthwhile
Cunningham shared openly with her teenage daughter about their struggles, praying together through uncertain times, while her younger sons were protected “We’re blessed to have my current husband, who loves them as his own ”
For her, her children illuminated her darkest days, and it was this unconditional love that fuelled her lifelong dream of becoming a teacher
Although Cunningham always wanted to work with children she lacked the means and guidance to pursue proper training until her au-pair employer, impressed by her natural ability, suggested she study teaching and reignited her childhood dream
Every other job she worked contributed valuable skills to her unique teaching approach From house-mother work Cunningham learnt the importance of family connection and love, her au-pair experience taught her patience with small children, sales work developed her communication skills, and her dental-assistant role honed her organisational precision
Watching her own boys develop at crèche during her training deepened her passion for helping children grow from an early age, bringing her teaching dream full circle Cunningham studied early-childhood development at
While Cunningham’s family celebrated her academic achievements alongside her roles as wife and mother, she credited her success entirely to their unwavering support “I can honestly say it wasn’t easy at all, but my family was my biggest support network From my daughter handling all the administrative work for my studies to my husband ensuring everyone was fed, I could truly rely on them throughout this entire journey ” Cunningham’s journey taught her to always give her best, a principle she instils in her learners by encouraging them to work hard, dream big, and never let anyone discourage their aspirations
She hopes her story would inspire others to pursue their dreams regardless of age, and empower women to believe they can conquer anything if they set their minds to it, taking control of their own destiny rather than letting others determine their outcome
“Believe in yourself The world is more open than it was in my time, so anything you can dream, you can achieve! Also, just get started; it’s almost always the first step that’s the most difficult to take, but once you’re committed, it gets easier And, as they always say, age is nothing but a number!” Cunningham has not stopped dreaming She hopes to establish her own after-care centre one day, where she can tutor learners after school and create a safe space for them But her ultimate dream remains owning her own house
“Ever since I came to Cape Town, I have been renting My family and I live in a wendy house in someone else’s backyard, and owning my own house would be the final dream I get to achieve Owning a house would mean security and stability for my family, especially my children I still have three children who depend on me, so I’m working hard to give them that stability It will also give me the peace and comfort I need in my life right now ”
Looking for a unique way to celebrate Women’s Day this year?
Outdoor enthusiasts and wine lovers alike are invited to Muratie Wine Estate this Saturday (9 August) for a scenic wine walk that promises breathtaking views and delightful tastings. Starting promptly at 09:00 from the Dirtopia Trail Centre on Muratie Wine Estate, just outside Stellenbosch, participants will begin their experience with a refreshing glass of Lady Alice MCC Mimosa
The guided walk will lead hikers along clearly marked paths to a spectacular lookout point high above the cellar Here, participants will be rewarded with panoramic vistas of both Simonsberg and Table Mountain, offering a perfect backdrop for a memorable Women’s Day celebration At the summit, guests will be treated to an exclusive tasting of four Muratie wines, featuring two exquisite whites and two rich reds For younger participants under 18, a refreshing juice will be provided instead of wine
The entire hike covers a distance of 3,5 km, making it an enjoyable challenge for those with a reasonable fitness level
The cost for the unique experience is R175 per adult Participants are advised to wear closed walking or hiking shoes and take a backpack equipped with water, hat, jacket, and optional snacks Be prepared for varied terrain,
including over 200 wooden steps, ensuring a rewarding workout amid the stunning scenery Bookings are essential and tickets are limited Secure your spot online at www dirtpass co za by noon on Friday (8 August) Formoreinformation,visit www.dirtopia.co.za,sendaWhatsApp messageto0783433572,oremail info@dirtopia co za
Prepare for an evening of magic and wonder as the inaugural Fairy Light Festival is set to illuminate Kiekeboe Educare in Woodlands Road, Gordon’s Bay this weekend
Promising fun for the whole family, the festival will open its gates at 18:00 on both Friday 8 and Saturday 9 August
Those attending can look forward to a dazzling array of attractions, including captivating light displays perfect for unique photo opportunities
Younger visitors will be entertained
with a variety of children’s games, while the entire family can enjoy delicious treats from on-site food and coffee trucks
A highlight of the evenings is sure to be the mesmerising fire-dancing performances, adding an extra spark to the festive atmosphere
Entry to this enchanting event is R50 per person, with children under the age of two years enjoying free admission
Tickets will be conveniently available at the door on both nights
Locals are implored not to miss out
BarendWilliams
The drum majorettes of HottentotsHolland High School secured third place in the high-school elite division of the 2025 South African Majorettes and Cheerleading Association (Samca) National Championships in Oudtshoorn for the third consecutive year
A total of 51 HHH drummies competed in the competition alongside three other local teams at the national competition from Friday 4 to Saturday 12 July (“Helderberg en Grabouw trompoppies op pad na SA’s in Oudtshoorn”, DistrictMail & Helderberg Gazette, 2 July)
“It’s fantastic to finish third again, especially considering 37 out of 51 girls are new and have never done drummies before,” says Karin Verster, who has coached the HHH drummies since 1981 “I was really nervous, but their achievement was the greatest gift ever ”
The team excelled across multiple categories, claiming first place in small group pom non-prop and securing podium finishes in baton, mace and flag events Both small and large drill squads placed third
overall Drill leader Faith van der Berg placed fourth in both small and large drills, while the small drill sub-leaders finished third and the large drill sub-leaders took fourth place “The standout performance was our large drill squad finishing third,” Verster explained “These were all new learners who only started in January, but we practised very hard ”
During her 44 years of coaching, Verster has seen the sport evolve from “very militaristic to more creative formations, modern music, and even dance movements”
“I firmly believe that participating in nationals shows the girls that they can achieve something in life if they have the ability to persevere, accept responsibility and work as a group ”
However, she notes that “the Helderberg has not yet fully embraced drummies as a sport”, though the team thrives on support from parents and the school Verster hopes for increased community involvement at a high tea fundraiser at HHH on Saturday 4
October
The team now sets its sights on next year’s competition in Gauteng, hoping to better their third-place finish
on this opportunity to create lasting memories under the magical glow of a thousand fairy lights in the seaside town
It’s an ideal weekend outing for families seeking an evening of entertainment and enchantment Those seeking more information or wishing to enquire about the available activities and goods in advance, can phone 072 043 1750.
Penguins will be part of the display at the Fairy Light Festival, which will be held at Kiekeboe Edu-
Yaseen Gaffar
A recent collaboration between the Lord Charles Ladies Social and Business Network and the Strong Schools Community Collaborative (SSCC) transformed a fashion event into a powerful initiative for community upliftment last Wednesday (30 July).
The partnership successfully raised vital funds for the new Moms with Purpose programme, aimed at empowering mothers in under-resourced school communities.
Jannett Skinner, executive manager of SSCC, expressed her enthusiasm for the collaboration “Partnering with the Lord Charles Ladies Club and Business Network for the fashion show was an inspiring experience,” she said “It was more than just a stylish afternoon; it was a joyful, generous occasion that raised much-needed funds for our new Moms with Purpose initiative in local schools. The energy in the room was electric, and the raffle for the beautiful wine console donated was a highlight. Congratulations to Melanie Vos, our lucky winner!”
The Moms with Purpose programme is a community-based initiative designed to equip and empower mothers. Through
hands-on life-skills workshops and a guided entrepreneurial journey the programme fosters connection, builds confidence and nurtures leadership among women committed to making a long-term impact on their children’s schools and communities.
“Moms with Purpose is about more than just support,” Skinner emphasised.
“It is about true transformation. When mothers are empowered, entire families and communities will benefit.”
The Lord Charles Ladies Social Club and Business Network, a vibrant community of women, meets monthly at the Lord Charles Hotel.
The club is dedicated to creating a safe, creative and caring space for women to connect socially and professionally, supporting one another in business growth, personal development, and meaningful relationships. Their gatherings feature a three-course meal and inspiring guest speakers on diverse topics.
The annual fashion show and market, with models from the Ace Models Helderberg Academy, celebrate identity, creativity and community with a core mission to support local charities and community upliftment initiatives.
This year’s fashion show proudly supported Moms with Purpose.
Well-known furniture chain opens
Bradlows celebrated its grand opening in Main Road, Somerset West last Wednesday (30 July), marking an exciting addition to the local retail landscape Pictured at the grand opening are staff members (behind from left) Danie Olwagen (regional operations manager), Michelle Rodrigues (branch manager), Florah Leshope (salesperson), Lucille Martin (area manager) and Christo de Kock (salesperson) Front: Kadian Klein (sales agent) and Sivuyile Mbewu (sales agent) Photo: Yaseen Gaffar
THURSDAY7AUGUST
Strand:ThursdayisPensioners’DayatSUNSET BOOKSinBeachRoad Thedaystartswithaknitting clubknittingorcrochetingsquaresforblanketsand prosthesesforbreast-cancersurvivorsfrom10:00to 11:00 From14:30to15:30,authorWalterVolkerwill discusshisnewbook,Theowlsandshadowwar:The insidestoryofmilitaryintelligenceinSouthAfrica Admissiontobothgatheringsisfree,butreservations fortheVolkertalkisnecessaryon0683852563
FRIDAY15AUGUST
SomersetWest:LaureusSportforGoodambassadorGrantLottering,whosurvivedanear-fatalcrash intheItalianAlpsbeforeconquering1000kmofsolo cyclingthroughtheFrenchAlps,willinspireHelderbergbusinessownersandentrepreneurswithhisstoryofresilienceandpracticalinsightsonovercoming adversityinbusinessandlife “FromDeathtotheTop oftheAlps–GrantLotteringLiveintheHelderberg” ispresentedbytheHELDERBERGSAKEKAMERat ErinvaleEstateHotelandSpafrom07:30to10:00 TicketsfromR350areavailableonlineviaQuicket
SATURDAY16TOSUNDAY24AUGUST
Helderberg:ThethirdannualINDIEAUTHORS RISEUP:FRINGEFIRESIDECHATSbookfestival willbeheldatvariousvenuesinGordon’sBay,Somer-
Die Stadskoor Tygerberg, ’n gemeenskapskoor in die noordelike voorstede, bied op Sondag 17 Augustus om 16:00 ’n opwindende en opbouende program van koormusiek, getiteld As Long as I have Music, by die Suider-Strand NG kerk, op die hoek van Pienaarstraat en Gordonbaaiweg, aan Die program bestaan uit ’n aantal bekende gewyde koorwerke, sowel as ’n betowerende verskeidenheid gewilde liedere, onder meer “How great Thou art”, “Cantique de Jean Racine” deur die Franse komponis Gabriël Faure en “Wie lieblich sind deine Wohnungen” uit die Duitse Requiem deur die komponis Brahms Gewilde musiek wat uitgevoer sal word, sluit in “As long as I have music”, “Yesterday”, “Asimbonanga”, “You’ve got a friend”, “Autumn Leaves” sowel as ’n aantal ander liedere Kaartjies kos R180 (standaard) en R150 (pensioentrekkers, studente en leerders) Kaartjies kan by die deur gekoop word, of bespreek jou plek deur Suzette van Wyk by 083 263 9335 of jfsmvanwyk@gmail com te kontak
setWestandStrand Therewillbeenrichingsessions withwritingmentors,candidinsightsfromexperiencedauthors,legalguidanceforwriters,artistsand othercreatives,andahands-onworkshopunpacking AI’sroleintheworldofwriting Morethan40talented independentauthorsandself-publishingservice providerswillbepartoftheevent Whetheryou’rea fanoffiction,poetryornon-fiction,there’ssomething foreveryone MostticketscostR60eachandincludes aglassofwine,whileothersofferfreeadmission Visit wwwindieauthorsriseupco zaformoreinformation andthefullprogramme
WEDNESDAY20AUGUST
SomersetWest:HELDERBERGHOSPICEholds itsannualgeneralmeetingviaZoomat12:00 The
meetinglinkandpasswordwillbesharedtothose whoconfirmattendancebyMonday18Augustby calling0218524608orsendinganemailtoevents@ helderberghospice org za
THURSDAY11SEPTEMBER
SomersetWest:MASIKHULE,alocalNPOfocused onearlychildhooddevelopment(ECD),celebrates its20thanniversaryandinvitesthecommunity toitsannualgeneralmeetingfrom14:30to16:00 atUrbanVoiceChurch Thegatheringwillshare achievements,futureplansandexpressgratitudefor communitysupport ItoffersECDservicesliketraining, mentorship earlyintervention resources nutrition programmesandmore RSVPisrequiredbyMonday1 Septemberviaemailoninfo@masikhule org
Yaseen Gaffar
History will be made this Saturday (9 August), as Rusthof-based Seikikan Goju Ryu dojo will proudly host its first-ever karate tournament.
The club has been the cornerstone of the community for 18 years and will be bringing together about 200 students from various clubs across the region for a day of impressive displays of skill and sportsmanship.
The Friendship Tournament, as it’s been aptly named, will kick off at the Dr GJ Joubert Primary School hall at 08:00. Spectators are warmly welcomed to witness the action, with tickets priced at R20 for adults and R10 for children.
Beyond the thrilling competition, the event will also serve as a vital fundraiser for the Seikikan Goju Ryu dojo, with food and various stalls available throughout the day.
Sensei Richard Kloosman, the driving force behind Seikikan Goju Ryu, expressed his excitement about the momentous occasion. “This will be our first-ever tournament,” he shared “We always participate in events, but we’ve never hosted before. Now is the time!”
The dojo, which started in 2006-’07 at Rusthof Primary School and has called the Methodist Church hall on the corner of Fourth Street and Broadlands Road home for the past decade, has been a con-
sistent presence in the community.
“It’s a lot of work to host and prepare students for the tournament,” Kloosman admitted, highlighting the dedication of his 50 students “We’ve focused intensely on preparing for this event.”
The tournament, supported by the Boland Karate Association, will feature students ranging from six years old to adults and seniors, competing across various age divisions and disciplines.
Participants from around seven clubs, including those from Cape Town, Strand, and Kuils River, are expected to demonstrate their prowess in kata and kumite this weekend.
A particularly anticipated event will be unison kata, where a team of three performs in perfect synchronisation.
For Kloosman, who grew up in Macassar and has resided in Strand for 25 years, this tournament is more than just a competition.
“The highlight for me is that people must come enjoy a legitimate sport that unites the community, and the skills are something to behold,” he emphasised
“Come appreciate the skills, come get involved It is a recognised sport that should receive consideration from the community.”
The entire community is invited to show their support.
For more information, interested individuals can call or send a WhatsApp message to Kloosman on 083 999 9314.
Boxer Athletics Club’s Kyla Jacobs will mark her Totalsports Women’s Race debut in Cape Town on National Women’s Day (Saturday 9 August), just five months after welcoming her baby girl
“Being part of an event that empowers women through sport is truly special – and something I’m deeply passionate about,” says the Somerset West local “People often look to the winner of a race for inspiration, but lining up alongside so many women from different walks of life gives you an entirely new perspective There’s inspiration in every single woman out there Sport has changed and shaped my life, and I’m incredibly grateful for events and sponsors like the Totalsports Women’s Race that provide a platform for us to compete, connect, and thrive ”
“My message to fellow entrants is that being healthy and fit is a privilege Sharing that with a community of like-minded, goal-driven, strong women is both a blessing and a powerful force Count your blessings, show up fully, and remember you are capable of anything you put your mind to ”
Nikki Crous, head of marketing at Totalsports said they are proud and excited to welcome Jacobs to her debut Totalsports Women’s Race in Cape Town, as well as her inspiring return to racing after pregnancy
When asked why she specifically chose the Totalsports Women’s Race as her comeback race after giving birth, Jacobs explains: “More than any other, this race reminds me how strong women are – especially moms! I’m excited to draw strength and inspiration from all the incredible women and mothers taking part, and I hope to inspire my little girl, Lienke, and all the other little girls out there to never give up on their dreams. I’m really looking forward to sharing the joy of running and the essence of womanhood with everyone on the day ”
Jacobs admitted that while the goal is always to win, her focus this time is on testing her fitness, enjoying the moment, and racing with her heart – not just her watch
“I’m looking forward to that adrenaline rush when the gun goes off – and of course, the celebrations at the finish line,” she smiled
“Kyla embodies the spirit of every woman taking part – she’s a strong, independent woman who balances life’s many roles with determination and grace It’s a true honour to celebrate her journey and her comeback on National Women’s Day, alongside thousands of women who share that same strength,” Crous pointed out
The 2025 Totalsports Women's Race Cape Town will take place in the Cape Town CBD on Saturday, starting in Darling Street and finishing at the Grand Parade
The event offers two distance options with the 10 km race beginning at 08:00 and the 5 km race starting at 08:10
The race proudly supports PinkDrive, an NPO dedicated to increasing breast cancer awareness, providing education, and offering free services to medically uninsured persons across the country
South African songstress Lady Zamar will perform at all three Totalsports Women’s Race events, bringing her soulful voice and empowering lyrics to join thousands of women as they run, walk and celebrate sisterhood in support of PinkDrive and the ongoing fight against breast cancer MoreinformationaboutPinkDriveisavailable atwww pinkdrive org
Woensdag,6Augustus2025
In a match that delivered all the drama a Super League C local derby promises, Strand Rugby Club secured a hardfought 34-29 victory over a tenacious All Saints Rugby Club in front of a packed Gustrouw Sports Ground this past Saturday (2 August).
The hosts ultimately triumphed, but only after fending off a stunning second-half comeback by the visitors, who had the cro d i
L a h pow ser Th att im sur Bo see abl ou the
starting blocks The early pressure paid off as Strand raced to a commanding 18-0 lead, with tries by captain Junaid van der Heyde and Mikyle Thomas.
All Saints eventually found their footing, but Strand’s relentless assault, including another try from Matthew Durr, saw them take a comfortable 25-12 lead into th h lf ti b eak Kicking and were Ethan Beckng a converen Samuels another
their brave comeback was derailed by a series of ill-disciplined plays that resulted in yellow cards This handed the momentum back to Strand, who capitalised with Beckett slotting two penalties to add to his earlier three, securing the win and putting the game just out of reach
The second half, however, belonged to the visitors The Olla Boys eturned to ield with reurpose, and ts quickly nds They way back with a seked tries, as w 28-29 lead completely seemed on r All Saints,
While the hosts’ pack was a key factor in their success, providing quality ball for their backs to run riot, the try of the day belonged to All Saints’ outside centre, Aiden January With a breathtaking burst of pure pace, January sliced through the Strand defence to score a spectacular try under the posts
All Saints’ points came from a number of players, with tries also scored by Geraldo Jacobs, Dillin Andries, Eagan Christians, and Odwa Gwe Dylan Scholtz added two conversions to round out the scoring for the visitors
In Super League A, Helderberg Rugby Club hosted the UCT Ikeys at the Charles Morkel Stadium in the rain last on Wednesday (30 July) It turned out to be a low scoring encounter and a defensive display by both teams
In the fifth minute, the Ikeys scored the opening try thanks to their illusive winger and also added the extras (0-7) For the balance of the first half, both teams out in
some hard hits
For Helderberg their loose forwards trio of Dian Koen, Blaine Skelton and Waylin Pick proved exceptional, together with hooker Mauritz Swart
The second half delivered more serious tackling and it was in the 55th minute when UCT was awarded a penalty try (0-14)
In the 59th minute the replacement Ikeys scrumhalf scored his team’s third try (0-19)
At this point the game was called because of playing conditions being too severe and the final score was recorded as a 0-19 victory for UCT
Other results:
– Super League B: Macassar 39-24 NTK; – Super League C: Busy Bee 53-26 Strand United; – Promotion League: Raithby 22-18 Blue Stars United Fixtures for this Saturday (9 August):
– SLA: Maties vs Helderberg (Danie Craven Stadium) Kuils River vs St George’s (Jagtershof); – SLC: All Saints vs Langa (Helderzicht), Violets vs Strand United (Chukker Road), Busy Bee vs Strand (Langa); – Promotion League: Sir Lowrians vs Fisantekraal (Sir Lowry’s Pass), Raithby Universals vs Masiphumelele (Raithby)