City facilities battle to provide services
While still experiencing challenges with the electricity and water supply Lwandle Library has resumed with limited services in support of the community
The facility reopened this week after its enforced closure following a devastating breakin last weekend, discovered last Monday morning (11 August) The incident resulted in extensive flooding and accompanying damage
Perpetrators accessed the building through the ceiling to bypass alarms, ripped electrical wires out and damaged water pipes (“Burglars target Lwandle Library”, DistrictMail & Helderberg Gazette, 13 August)
The incident also forced the City of Cape Town to revise timelines for the recently announced R12 million upgrade project that had generated excitement just weeks earlier, while authorities urge anyone with information to contact local police
Limited services will be available at the municipal facilities from Monday 18 to Friday 22 August, including study spaces, photocopying, assistance for children with project books and assignments, book returns as normal, and preschool outreaches including storytelling and activities
“Services that are dependent on electricity supply can be reinstated only once the electricity is restored,” said Francine Hingham, Mayoral Committee member for Community Services and Health
“This includes access to the SmartCape facilities The City appreciates the community’s patience and understanding as repairs continue to restore normal operations ”
Meanwhile, the Strand Customer Interaction and Motor Vehicle Registration and Licensing office, located on the corner of Main Road and Fagan Street, has also been temporarily closed as of last Wednesday (13 August) until further notice due to damage caused following a pipe burst the facility
While comprehensive damage assessments and repairs are conducted as a precautionary measure, residents can access municipal services through alternative Customer Interaction Centres or use extensive digital service options, including online payments via multiple platforms (eServices, Easypay, Powertime, PayThat), retail payment points at major stores like Shoprite, Pick n Pay, and Woolworths, EFT and ATM payments, and motor vehicle assistance via email
Promises in tatters
ShakoorVallie
Thirty years after democracy promised transformation Strand residents are still waiting, Dr Allan Boesak learned first-hand on Saturday (16 August), when he encountered what amount to broken promises – deteriorating living conditions that define daily life in the local community
Despite the population more than doubling over three decades, there is little evidence of meaningful advancement in addressing residents’ needs Although some housing developments have been completed, locals attending questioned local government’s use of allocated funds
Boesak listened attentively to activists and community workers, who raised the same issues that have persisted since 1994 For too long communities have been misled at the ballot box, repeatedly voting for what he described as “colonial exploiters”
On his way through Allan Boesak Village its eponymous tourist was shocked by the stench and filth of the Soet River Elderly residents shared their concerns about the river’s deteriorating condition
In Broadlands Park he expressed disappointment in the area’s transformation into a slum, with overcrowded houses and numerous shacks in yards
At Vlakteplaas people are living in horrendous conditions in barns
alongside animals
In Gustrouw he visited the local clinic and an open field earmarked for the development of a police station years ago, but this necessary facility never materialised
Following the site visits residents gathered at the Strand congregation of the Volkskerk van Afrika to voice their complaints
Some of the key issues discussed included: the lack of available land for community infrastructure; missing facilities like an indoor youth centre, regional athletics track, skills centre, oldage home, and early childhood development and after-care centres; insufficient land for agricultural horticulture and community gardens; the need for a central soup kitchen; and children not attending school due to lack of proper
Boesak emphasised that vacant land owned by the departments of Public Works and Environmental Affairs, originally serving as buffer zones between communities, should be used for community development He claimed that authorities continued to disrespect communities and trample on their human rights “We are worse off than before democracy,” he stated, calling for collective action, and not isolated work
The newly-formed Helderberg Residence Concern Group will tackle these issues as an umbrella body, bringing all civic organisations together to address challenges with statutory entities Boesak concluded that it is time to stop allowing authorities to disregard residents’ rights to live in dignity and with decency
Attie Phillips, Diane Phillips, Dr Allan Boesak and Willie Engelbrecht rub shoulders in their quest to eliminate all the “broken promises” made to Strand residents
From tragedy to triumph
This month, women’s extraordinary resilience and ability to rise, rebuild and inspire others through life’s greatest challenges are celebrated.
Somerset West resident Natalie Gunther’s story embodies this spirit; a testament to transforming struggle into strength and empowerment
On the early morning of 9 August 2014 tragedy struck when the then 29-year-old was a passenger in a vehicle that lost control and rolled off the highway
ALIFE-CHANGINGMOMENT
She was found 13m away from the
for digital marketing and signage, but harboured dreams of learning graphic design, website development and starting her own business As many do, she made excuses to delay her aspirations
“Lying in hospital and realising a sales position on the road wasn’t an option, I decided now was the perfect time to start ”
From her hospital bed Gunther began building her future She had someone design her logo and, on discharge, her learning and business adventure began –
“the most painful yet rewarding time of my life, one small milestone at a time ”
During a particularly dark period of depression Gunther found unexpected
ther made the difficult decision to close the business and resign from the farm
But this wasn’t an ending; it was another beginning Last month (July) she relocated to Somerset West, where she now focuses on what she believes is her true calling: teaching others about digital marketing and sharing miracle testimonies
“I know the challenges I went through moulded me into the person I needed to be, for a time such as this I can safely say it’s a miracle I’m alive and God has done amazing things in my life ”
MESSAGEOFHOPE
Natalie Gunther’s remarkable journey from surviving a 2014 car accident with a broken neck and only 40% chance of survival to building a successful business from her hospital bed and now inspiring others in Somerset West through digital marketing teaching and miracle testimonies, exemplifies how women can transform their greatest tragedies into powerful sources of purpose and empowerment
Vragvervoer beloer
Verteenwoordigers van die provinsiale departement van mobiliteit het verlede Maandag (11Augustus) as deel van vragfokusmaand by Two-a-Day in Grabouw, een van die WesKaap se grootste vrugteprodusente en -uitvoerders, besoek afgelê
Die besoek het die deurslaggewende rol wat vrag vervul – om voedsel van plase na plaaslike en buitelandse markte te bring –beklemtoon
Dit was deel van die departement se bewustheidsveldtog oor hoe noodsaaklik vrag vir die alledaagse lewe en die ekonomie is en om oplossings te verken vir die verbetering van die vervoer van goedere padlangs, per skip of per spoor
Luidens ’n verklaring van die mobiliteitsdepartement is vrag die onsigbare krag agter voedselsekerheid
“Elke appel wat verpak is en elke boks wat gestuur word, maak staat op goed funksionerende logistieke netwerke en doeltreffende vervoerstelsels Vir boerderygemeenskappe in die WesKaap gaan betroubare vrag nie net oor ekonomiese geleenthede nie – dit is ’n lewenslyn,” lui die verklaring
Departementele amptenare het met Two-a-Day se leierskap, logistiek en pakhuisspanne tesame met aandeelhouers, Link Supply Chain Management en TruCape saamgewerk om die uitdagings wat landelike vrag in die gesig staar, beter te begryp – van hoërisiko-padinfrastruktuur,
hawe-ondoeltreffendheid en gapings in koueketting-kapasiteit tot hoë vervoerkoste
Besprekings het gefokus op hoe die regering en die private sektor kan saamwerk om dié kwessies aan te pak deur samewerkende beplanning, geteikende beleggings en vernuwing
“Sonder sterk landbou-vrag beweeg gewasse nie, markte kom tot stilstand, en landelike ekonomieë ly Wanneer vrag werk, werk ons provinsie – werksgeleenthede groei, kos bereik gesinne en ons ekonomie floreer,” sê Isaac Sileku, die Wes-Kaapse LUR vir mobiliteit
Volgens Chris Petzer, die bedryfs-direkteur by Two-a-Day, is vrag ’n noodsaaklike deel van die maatskappy se sake en mededingendheid “Besoeke soos hierdie
help verseker dat die regering die werklike uitdagings wat ons in die gesig staar, begryp en dat ons saamwerk om praktiese oplossings te bewerkstellig,” sê hy Corrine Gallant, die departement se adjunk-direkteur van vrag, voeg by: “Agter elke vrug wat ons eet, is ’n ketting mense, vragmotors en stelsels wat hard werk om dit vars en aan die
beweeg te hou Hierdie besoek het ten doel om na die bedryf te luister en daardie stelsels te versterk om meer inwoners meer doeltreffend te dien ” Die departement moedig landbouprodusente, vragoperateurs en plaaslike owerhede aan om saam te werk om die landelike vragnetwerk in die provinsie te versterk
G’Ba has Grill
Van links: Chris Petzer (bedryfsdirekteur by Two-a-Day), die LUR vir mobiliteit, Isaac Sileku, Corrine Gallant (departement mobiliteit adjunk-direkteur van vrag), Fezile Mbambo (department mobiliteit direkteur van landelike vervoerintegrasie), en Chris Knoetze (bestuurshoof van Link Supply Chain Management).
Musieksterre aangewys
’n Jong pianis van Somerset-Wes is een van slegs 24 opkomende sterre in die land wat as finalis vir die 2025Nasionale Jeugmusiekkompetisie (NJMK) gekies is
Die 17-jarige Hermanus Schmidt is die enigste Helderberger wat vir die gesogte musiekkompetisie gekies is Dié Paul Roos Gimnasium-leerder, wat slegs vyf jaar gelede in die Covid-19-grendeltyd klavier begin speel het, sal hoop om vanjaar sy pad na die top-drie oop te speel nadat hy verlede jaar tot die kompetisie se eindronde deurgedring het
Die kompetisie word van Maandag 1 tot Saterdag 6 Desember in die Endler-saal in Stellenbosch gehou Die 24 finaliste is ná video-oudisies uit 35 inskrywings deur ’n paneel gevierde musici gekeur
Die kandidate – almal tussen 14 en 19
jaar – sal in dié week lange kompetisie om die prysgeld van R180000, die gesogte wentitel sowel as goue, silwer- en bronsmedaljes meeding
Die kompetisie word oor vier rondes in vyf afdelings vir orkesmusiekinstrumente beslis – klavier, stryk-, houtblaas-, koperblaas- en ander orkesinstrumente (harp, slagwerk, marimba, xilofoon, ens) Vanjaar kraai die pianiste koning met 11 mededingers, gevolg deur vyf tjelliste, drie saxofoonspelers, twee violiste en ’n fluit-, hobo- en marimba-speler
“Die 13 nuwelinge onder vanjaar se deelnemers illustreer die diepte van klassieke musiekonderrig in Suid-Afrika,” sê prof
Mario Nell, direkteur van die NJMK “Die drie pilare van hierdie kompetisie is om die land se opkomende klassieke sterre te identifiseer, bloot te stel en te ontwikkel ”
Die deelnemers moet ’n wye repertoire
van hul eie keuse oor die vyf dae lange kompetisie speel Dit dek verskillende stylperiodes en Suid-Afrikaanse komposisies Al die deelnemers sal in die eerste twee rondes speel Daarna sal 12 semi-finaliste in die derde (kwarteinderonde) meeding om die voorste ses musici aan te wys
Die leidende ses kandidate sal sake op Saterdag 6 Desember by ’n galakonsert uitspook, met begeleiding deur die Kaapstadse Filharmoniese Orkes (KFO)
Die wenner en finale ranglys van die NJMK word kumulatief oor vier rondes bepaal Dit is die enigste kompetisie in Suid-Afrika waar die ses finaliste sake vir die louere uitspook en deur die KFO begelei word Die vierde ronde se galakonsert sal regstreeks op die NJMK se webblad gestroom word
Die jongste sterre (15 jaar oud) kom uit die Wes-Kaap Sewe is eerstejaarstudente van die Universiteit van Kaapstad, die Universiteit van Pretoria en die Universiteit Stellenbosch, terwyl die res van die kandidate ’n verskeidenheid streke verteenwoordig
Die beoordelaars en kaartjiepryse vir die galakonsert sal nader aan die kompetisie aangekondig word Toegang tot die eerste drie rondes van 1 tot 4 Desember is gratis
Local artists vie for coveted biennial portrait-art prize
Two artists from the Helderberg have been named among the top 40 finalists for the highly anticipated 2025 Portrait Award
The biennial awards showcase the boldest and most compelling portraiture in South Africa today From oil to mixed media, realism to abstraction, these artists offer a striking snapshot of contemporary identity and talent
The works of Somerset West resident Tessa Smit and Rene Snyman from Sir Lowry’s Pass will be on display at the Rust-en-Vrede Gallery and Clay Museum in Durbanville, alongside those of the other finalists from Saturday 30 August to Wednesday 29 October
The seventh edition of the Portrait
Awards, held biennially since 2013, invites artists from across South Africa to submit original, two-dimensional portraits for a chance to secure a solo exhibition
Donovan Mynhardt, curator at the Rusten-Vrede Gallery, reflects on the selection process: “The judging process was incredibly meticulous, and what excited us most this year was the number of new mediums and approaches we saw
“This year there was a noticeable increase in entries using drawings, embroidery, graphic-based techniques and even tattoo ink, all of which are truly pushing the boundaries of portraiture in exciting new ways ”
The 2025 Portrait Award judging panel of
three experts, comprising prominent South Africans in the art space, each brought their unique perspectives to the selection process The panel comprised Dr Dineke Orton, curator of the University of Johannesburg’s Art Gallery, contemporary artist Thonton Kabeya and respected critic Sean O’Toole
This year’s exhibition is set to offer a powerful exploration of contemporary South African portraiture and its evolving expressions “I’m pleased with the choices the judges made this year There’s a clear shift towards more modern and diverse approaches to portraiture,” Mynhardt noted
The Portrait Award celebrates the art of portraiture, pushing the boundaries of the
genre with new and innovative works The top 40 finalists represent a broad spectrum of South African talent who hail from across the country
“The quality of the submissions was incredibly high, showcasing both technical skill and emotional depth I’m eager for audiences to experience these exceptional works ”
The winners will be announced on 29 August, when the overall winner will receive a share of R200 000 and the chance to host a solo exhibition at Rust-en-Vrede Gallery The Portrait 100 exhibition, featuring 60 more portraits, will be on display at the Spier Arts Trust Union House in Cape Town from 30 August to 29 October
Die talentvolle pianis Hermanus Schmidt is vanjaar weer’nfinalisindieNasionaleJeugmusiekkompetisie.
PAREL VALLEI HIGH SCHOOL PEARSON HIGH
Uitruil versterk skoolbande
Die Helderberg-kom was weer eens in die greep van interskole-koors toe die hoërskole Parel Vallei en Pearson van Donderdag 14 tot Saterdag 16 Augustus hul jaarlikse uitruil aangebied het – ’n naweek vol opwindende kragmetings wat albei skole se verskeie sport-, kultuur- en akademiese talent onthul het
Op die rugbyveld het die skole gemengde resultate opgelewer met Parel Vallei se o 19A- (20-10) en o 19B-spanne (16-14) wat sterk presteer het, terwyl Pearson se o 16Aspan met ’n oortuigende 21-13-sege teruggeveg het Hoogtepunte was die o 15A-naelbyter wat Parel Vallei 25-20 gewen het en twee spannende gelykopuitslae – die o 19D’s wat 19-19 geëindig het en die o 14A’s wat 12-12 gelykop gestaan het
Ander uitslae sluit in:
•o 19C: PV 5-24 Pearson
•o 16A: PV 0-6 Pearson
o 16B: PV 21-13 Pearson
•o 15B: PV 0-22 Pearson
•o 14B: PV 24-15 Pearson
Op die atletiekveld het PV se Tungu-gees helder geskyn Die Bulhonde het die fietsry op die Southey Vines MTB-baan met 251 teenoor 127 punte gewen, terwyl landloop ’n oorweldigende 109 teenoor 228 punte-oorwinning opgelewer het – met uitstaande prestasies deur die junior seuns (21 t 78) en senior meisies (28 t 56)
Netbal het taai mededinging met uitstaande prestasies opgelewer, soos PV se o 18B-span se 40-20-sege en die o 17A-span se 44-32-triomf, terwyl Pearson met ewe indrukwekkende seges in die o 18A- (25-23) en o.16A-afdelings (26-22) teruggevuur het. Ander netbal-uitslae:
•o 18A: PV 23-25 Pearson
•o 18B: PV 40-20 Pearson
•o 17A: PV 15-25 Pearson
•o 16A: PV 22-26 Pearson
•o 15B: PV 15-14 Pearson o 14A: PV 22-10 Pearson
Hokkie het opwindende aksie opgelewer
In die seuns-afdelings het PV se senior spanne uitstekend presteer met die 1steXI wat ’n indrukwekkende 7-2-oorwinning behaal het, terwyl die 2de XI (2-1), 3de XI (7-1) en 4de XI (5-1) ook almal geseëvier het Die junior seuns het gemengde resultate opgelewer met die o 16A-wedstryd wat 2-2 gelykop geëindig het, maar die o 16B-, o 16D-, o 14A- en o 14B-spanne het sterk presteer met oorwinnings van onderskeidelik 2-0, 5-1, 5-1 en 5-0 Pearson het egter teruggeveg en sukses behaal in die o 16C- (5-1), o 14C(3-1) en o 14D-wedstryde (3-2)
Die meisieshokkie het Vrydag ewe mededingende aksie opgelewer. PV se senior spanne het weer eens sterk presteer met die 1ste XI wat met ’n 3-0-oorwinning
en die 2de XI wat 1-0 geseëvier het Die junior spanne het meer gebalanseerde uitslae getoon met die o 16A-wedstryd wat 1-1 geëindig het en verskeie ander gelykopuitslae in die o 14B- (2-2) en o 14C-wedstryde (1-1) Pearson het egter sterk presteer in die o 16B- (2-0), o 16C- (4-1), o 16D- (2-0) en o 14A-kragmetings (2-1), terwyl PV se o 16Espan met ’n 1-0-sege teruggeveg het
Die raketsporte het ’n interessante kontrasverhaal vertel waar Pearson tennis oorheers het met indrukwekkende seges in al vyf wedstryde, terwyl PV hul slag op die muurbalbaan met ’n oortuigende oorwinning (30-12) gewys het
Die tennis-uitslae is soos volg:
•Meisiesenkelspel: PV 1-11 Pearson
•Meisiesdubbelspel: PV 1-5 Pearson
•Seunsenkelspel: PV 2-10 Pearson
•Seunsdubbelspel: PV 1-5 Pearson
•Gemengde dubbelspel: PV 0-10 Pearson
PV ook het op die gholfbaan ook sy klas gewys met oorwinnings vir die eerste
span (195 teenoor 166) en tweede span (172 teenoor 131), wat hul indrukwekkende vaardigheid in die sport beklemtoon Branderplankry het wisselende sukses getoon PV se Loghann Tillsley en Max Korber het die A-seuns-eindronde oorheers met eerste en tweede posisies, en Daniel Theunissen van Pearson het die B-klas gewen In die spanwedstryd het Parel Vallei egter albei die A- en B-spanne in die top-twee-posisies geplaas
In die kulturele en intellektuele kragmetings het die skole gelyke weerstand gebied
Pearson-oorwinnings:
•Senior: Oratorie, Afrikaanse spel
•Junior: Vasvra
PV-oorwinnings:
•Senior: Wiskunde-aflos, dink-en-sink, vasvra
•Junior: Dink-en-sink, Afrikaanse spel, redenaars, oratorie, wiskunde-aflos, skaak (6-0)
Gelykspel: Skaak (seniors): 3-3
Die Hoërskool Parel Vallei se eerstespan-seunshokkiespelers vier hul oortuigende 7-2-oorwinning
Die landloop-kampioene is aangewys
Die twee trotse skoolhoofde, PV se David Schenck en Pearson se Haldane Pienaar
Busamed goes mental
JameyGordon
Busamed Paardevlei Private Hospital officially launched its new mental-wellness facility, reinforcing its position as a young and dynamic leader in comprehensive multidisciplinary healthcare excellence within the community
The official opening event took place on Thursday 14 August at the newly established facility located in the Paardevlei Precinct Guests and industry partners were graciously received with refreshments and guided tours of the state-of-the-art facility, Thrive@Busamed
The opening ceremony commenced with an official welcome by Mrs South Africa finalist Anita Momberg, followed by an address from Dr Dumani Kula, CEO of the Busamed Group who highlighted the significance of the new mental wellness facility as a major milestone for the hospital group
Dr Kula outlined Busamed’s remarkable expansion over the past decade, explaining that the Somerset West medical facility was the first hospital under the Busamed brand
The group has since grown to encompass seven hospitals across South Africa, including facilities in Gauteng, KwaZulu-Natal, Mpumalanga and the Free State offering comprehensive multidisciplinary services with transplants being the only service not currently provided
“This is a very important milestone for the group, because it’s the first stand-alone mental health facility dedicated to that, and we haven't done that in the past the future is indeed here, Dr Kula said He further acknowledged that despite competitors operating for 30 to 40 years, Busamed has embraced its position as a newbie in the private sector” to forge a different path
Moving beyond the traditional admit-treat-discharge model, the group has carved out a unique identity centered on comprehensive community empowerment
We are not small, we are just young, ” said Dr Kula “That’s a very important distinction that in being young, what it talks to is that theres a lot of energy there’s a lot of outside-the-box thinking, there’s a lot of growth that we are doing
“We are here to empower you and our communities that you will be able to live healthier and more fulfilling lives And more fulfilling lives is not just about health and medical in its sense but its really about the totality that we must be able to empower everybody”
“Thisisaveryimportantmilestone forthegroupbecauseit’sthefirst stand-alonementalhealthfacility dedicatedtothat,andwehaven’t donethatinthepast thefutureis indeedhere”
He highlighted the organisations significant investment in staff welfare, from medical professionals to support staff including security, catering and cleaning teams describing this as building “ a powerful integrated system where we are all functioning as one
The newly launched facility represents an extension of Busamed's successful acute care model into mental health services
“We are not here to just wait for people to be sick and needing to come into hospital We are going to reach out to where they are, so that we can keep as many people as possible well, keep them whole, and indeed help them to be healthier and live more fulfilling lives ”
The facility will serve voluntary, detoxification and assisted patients through a multidisciplinary team of psychiatrists, psychologists, occupational therapists, and allied health professionals
Chief strategy officer Dr Nthabiseng Legoete emphasised Busameds mission to empower communities through intentional partnerships, declaring those a ending as collaborators rather than guests
“One of the principles we pride ourselves on, something we do very intentionally, is partnering with the communities in which we operate” she said “You are that community So you ’ re not guests here today; you are our partners because without partners we cannot thrive, and we cannot help communities thrive I want everyone here to take this message away: we are all in this together”
Dr Legoete further outlined plans to work with healthcare professionals to co-create what she envisions could become the world’s best mental health facility, with detailed service information and opening dates to be communicated in coming weeks
Alexa de Villiers (clinical registered dietitian at Vergelegen Dieticians) Claudia Barnard (Busamed Paardevlei Private Hospital pharmacy manager), Dr Sharise Singh (physician), Dr Kyle Schnaar (physician), Reinhardt Hesse (chemical pathologist at Pathcare), Marguerite Lo us (dietitian at Vergelegen Dietitians) and Fabio Crabbia (general pathologist at Pathcare)
described the new mental-wellness facility as a major milestone for the 10-year-old hospital group, emphasising their unique approach of moving beyond traditional healthcare models to empower communities through comprehensive, integrated services that reach patients where they are, rather than waiting for them to fall ill
Dr Ntahbiseng Legoete, Busamed’s chief strategy officer, positioned a endees as partners in the hospital group ’ s mission to co-create an exceptional mental health facility through community collaboration
Jomari de Beer (clinical psychologist at Paardevlei Therapy Centre), Chereé Davidson (registered clinical psychologist), Noleen Jansen (reception and administration at Paaerdevlei Therapy Centre) Elonie de Klerk (counselling psychologist at Paardevlei Therapy Centre), Pauli Geldenhuis (counselling psychologist, trauma psychotherapist and founder of Paardevlei Therapy Centre) and Maria Cloete (clinical psychologist and trauma psychotherapist at Paardvlei Therapy Centre)
The mental-wellness facility, Thrive@Busamed officially opened at Busamed Paardevlei Private Hospital in Somerset West on Thursday 14 August The ribbon-cu ing ceremony was proudly led by Dr Diliza Mji (founder and director), alongside Cama Rebe (business development manager) and Taryn Laas (group marketing manager), marking a significant expansion in the hospital’s comprehensive healthcare services.
Dr Dumani Kula (chief executive officer), Taryn Laas (group marketing manager), Dr Nthabiseng Legoete (chief strategy officer), Dr Diliza Mji (founder and director) Mayanda Dinwayo (chief experience officer) and Cama Rebe (business development manager)
Dr Dumani Kula, CEO of Busamed,
Reagan Aploon (IT technician), George Muzanenhamo (HR manager), Claudia Barnard (pharmacy manager), Tilla Shaakumeni (marketing manager), Irene Leshaba (UM ICU), Nazmah Jansen (training and development officer), Lorraine Mans (UM Surgical) and Philecia van der Walt (finance manager)
Anthea Blignaut, Joslyn Klassen, Sandra Herandien, Hendriena Thompson, Natali Minnaar and Charnelle Hoogbaard
Mrs South Africa finalists Anita Momberg, Carika Bebb and Yve e Muller (owner of Ace Models Helderberg).
Counselling psychologists Michelle Foulds and Wijbren Nell, with registered counsellor Juhanné Britz
Tilla Shaakumeni, marketing manager at Busamed Paardevlei Private Hospital, pictured with Marian Loots (Nurture Health patient admission specialist) and Isabel Barkhuysen (Nurture Health Helderberg hospital manager), representing the collaborative partnership between the healthcare organisations
Social worker Juanee Pretorius, Karla Richter (senior occupational therapist and practice manager at Faircape Health Somerset West) and Celeste Boessenkool (occupational therapist at Therapy in Action Somerset West)
Diary | Dagboek
WEDNESDAY 20 AUGUST
Helderberg: The third annual INDIE
AUTHORS RISE UP: FRINGE FIRESIDE CHATS book festival is on at various venues in Gordon’s Bay, Somerset West and Strand until Sunday 24 August There are enriching sessions with mentors, candid insights from authors, legal guidance for writers, artists and other creatives, and a hands-on workshop unpacking AI’s role in the world of writing More than 40 talented independent authors and self-publishing service providers are part of the event Most tickets cost R60 each and include a glass of wine while others offer free admission For more information on the event and the full programme, visit www indieauthorsriseup co za
Somerset West: An adaptation of The Picture of Dorian Gray by Oscar Wilde is on stage at THE PLAYHOUSE THEATRE until Saturday 23 August What happens when you take the popular novel out of its Victorian England setting and place it in the early 2000s, an era of rising celebrity culture, instant gratification and the relentless pursuit of perfection? The bold adaptation by Roberto Aguirre-Sacasa doesn’t change the heart of the story The themes remain intact: the obsession with beauty, the weight of influence, the dangers of vanity and the consequences of a life without accountability What shifts is the setting – a fast-paced, media-saturated world where Dorian’s descent feels more urgent, familiar and dangerous The production is recommended for people over age 16 as a result of mature themes Book your seat via Webtickets
DONDERDAG 21 AUGUSTUS
Strand: Donderdag is Pensioentrekker-dag by SUNSET BOOKS in Kusweg Die dag begin met ’n groep wat van 10:00 tot 11:00 vierkante brei of hekel vir komberse en prosteses vir borskankeroorwinnaars, gevolg deur ’n praatjie deur die plaaslike skrywer Anita Hamman van 14:30 tot 15:30 Sy gesels oor haar boek Jan & Marie van Riebeeck: Nederland tot Kaap, ’n verhaal geweef uit die stof van die lewe, die Van Riebeeck-familie se lief en leed, hartseer en vreugdes en die daaglikse stryd om die hier te “maak” Toegang
is gratis, maar besprekings is noodsaaklik via WhatsApp by 068 385 2563
SATURDAY 23 AUGUST
Strand: In celebration of Women’s Month, SUNSET BOOKS hosts a book discussion and gender-based violence workshop from 14:00 to 15:30 Author Pride Nganje will address the systematic barriers that perpetuate GBV in this insightful workshop and discuss his book Discipline is key Admission costs R60, and includes the chance to win a copy of the book To reserve your seat, send a WhatsApp message to 068 385 2563
MAANDAG 25 AUGUSTUS
Strand: Die CHRISTELIKE AFHANKLIK-
HEIDSDIENS of Christians Against Drugs (Cad) nooi mense wat probleme met middelafhanklikheid het, na hul byeenkoms om 19:00 in die kerksaal van die NGK Strand Moedergemeente op die hoek van Birkenhead- en Faganstraat Bel Gerrit by 073 336 3119 of Werner by 082 826 0972
WEDNESDAY 27 AUGUST
Gordon’s Bay: A Tea-Cup Painting Workshop is offered at the GOLDFISH CAFÉ from 18:00 to 20:30 The hands-on workshop promises to be both relaxing and inspiring The cost is R350 per person For bookings and more information, send a WhatsApp message on 083 625 6622
Strand: Aletta Francina de Kock se splinternuwe stand-up-komedie-vertoning, Effens Anders, bied ’n komiese en eerlike blik op haar huidige lewe – met al die snaakse, aweregse en bloot bizarre dinge wat daarmee saamkom Soos altyd bring sy haar skerp humorsin en natuurlike aanvoeling vir storievertelling en laat jou met haar unieke uitkyk op die wêreld skater van die lag Kom lag saam en ontmoet die vrou met die mooiste kuite in die land – want met Aletta is niks ooit heeltemal normaal nie alles is altyd Effens Anders! Die vertoning is om 19:30 op die planke by THE DRAMA FACTORY Geen onder 16’s Besoek www dramafactory co za vir besprekings
SATERDAG 30 AUGUSTUS
Strand: Die NG KERK LOURENSRIVIER hou sy jaarlikse Voedselfees van 09:00 Geniet potjiekos, vetkoek, pannekoek en meer! Daar
is ook ’n Tombola-tafel met opwindende pryse en kindervermaak vir die hele gesin Almal is welkom om deel te wees van die gemeenskapsviering Vir navrae, skakel 021 853 5991
Somerset West: ST PAUL’S CATHOLIC CHURCH hosts its monthly book sale from 09:00 to 12:00, featuring an exciting selection of “new” Afrikaans books alongside the usual collection of high-quality literature There will be no book sale in September so the August event is the last opportunity until October to discover literary treasures and support a worthy cause Visitors can enjoy tea, coffee, and a selection of eats while browsing, with the convenience of a card machine for purchases The event also features a fundraising car wash All proceeds from the book sale directly benefit the church’s feeding programmes, ensuring every purchase makes a meaningful difference in the community To donate books to the sale, phone Carole on 084 299 9023
DINSDAG 2 SEPTEMBER
Strand: Die HELDERBERG SENIOR KLUB nooi alle afgetredenes uit na hul maandelikse byeenkoms by die NG kerk Helderberg in Firmountweg Die gesellige oggend begin om 09:00 met tee en verversings, gevolg deur samesang en ’n spesiale program om 09:30 Lede betaal slegs R10 vir tee, terwyl besoekers welkom is teen R20 Die hoogtepunt van die dag sal wees wanneer talentvolle musiekleerders van die Hoër Meisieskool Rhenish gaste met hul uitstaande musiekuitvoerings vermaak Hierdie geleentheid bied die perfekte kans vir afgetredenes om nuwe vriende te maak, ou vriendskappe te hernu en deel te wees van ’n lewendige gemeenskap Almal is welkom om hierdie inspirerende oggend by te woon Bel Apolonia Maritz by 021 853 7560 of 082 507 7091 vir enige navrae of meer inligting
THURSDAY 11 SEPTEMBER
Somerset West: MASIKHULE, a local NPO focused on early childhood development, celebrates its 20th anniversary and invites the community to its annual general meeting at Urban Voice church in Schapenberg Road from 14:30 to 16:00 The gathering will share achievements, future plans and express gratitude for community support over the years RSVP for the gathering is required by Monday 1 September via email on info@masikhule org
Groove to hits from yesteryear
Get ready for a proper “Saffrican” concert complete with nostalgia, parody, and all the lekker tunes you forgot you loved at the Daisy Jones Bar on Summerhill Estate outside Stellenbosch on Friday 29 and Saturday 30 August
It’s Not Inside, It’s has chart-toppers from the ’70s and early ’80s, with a cheeky nod to the TV ads of the time
Expect legendary hits like “Hasie, Hoekom is Jou Stert So Kort”, “Pretty Belinda”, “Clap Your Hands and Stamp Your Feet”, ‘‘Save Me’’ by Clout, “Paradise Road”, “Timothy” and plenty more old favourites The show will be performed by the Theatrix Singers at 20:00 on both nights
The Theatrix Singers troupe, founded in 2021, is a theatrical ensemble comprising members from the Stellenbosch and surrounding areas It functions as a part of general theatre practice and includes any style, genre, character or theatre experience, and is well-known as a professional artist in the South African theatre industry
It’s Not Inside, It’s blends powerful vocals, musical parody, and lots of laugh-out-loud comedy, all brought to life with dazzling lights, superb sound, and some unforgettable ’70s flair Expect safari suits, platform shoes, Crimplene mini-dresses, long socks (with combs) and, of course, hot pants! Tickets can be booked online through Quicket
Globally-renowned SA group on Artscape stage
The five-time Grammy Award-winning group Ladysmith Black Mambazo will celebrate an incredible 65-year milestone in the music industry with a special concert series at Artscape from Friday 10 to Sunday 12 October
The run is a significant part of the legendary South African group’s national tour, which promises to mesmerise patrons with unique vocal style and rich storytelling The concert will showcase the group’s powerful harmonies and emotive performances, promoting themes of unity, love, and hope
Audiences will enjoy a blend of timeless classics and new arrangements, celebrating the beauty of African vocal traditions, immersing themselves in an inspiring cultural journey that connects past and present, offering a deep dive into the heart of South African music
The legendary group will be sharing the stage with Abantakwethu, a Gugulethu-based cultural music group discovered by Ladysmith Black Mambazo as part
of their talent discovery project
Ladysmith Black Mambazo last performed at Artscape for a two-day sold-out run in 2023, leaving many people asking for more This year will be another ground-breaking moment of a spectacular show that will be engraved in the hearts of many people for many years to come
The celebrated group, renowned worldwide for their rich harmonies and deep cultural significance, has been a beacon of South African music since forming in 1960 Their journey over the past six-and-a-half decades has not only mirrored the evolving landscape of the country, but has also significantly contributed to global music heritage
Ladysmith Black Mambazo is the most celebrated music group on the African continent, having collaborated with international music greats such as Paul Simon, Stevie Wonder, The Winans, Michael Jackson, Dolly Parton and many others Forticketenquiries,callArtscapeDial-a-seaton 0214217695orvisitwww.artscape.co.za.
South Africa’s most celebrated music group, Ladysmith Black Mambazo, will perform at the Artscape Theatre as part of their 65th anniversary tour
GB police officer flexes his muscles
BarendWilliams
By day he serves and protects the residents of Gordon’s Bay; at night he works ton his physique to compete on provincial competition stages
Meet Sergeant Jeremiah Naidoo, the operations commander at Gordon’s Bay Police Station, who placed third at the Western Cape Natural Bodybuilding Championships in Paarl on Saturday 9 August.
His achievement is commendable given he participated in his first competition in March Naidoo will now represent Western Province at nationals in Gqeberha in October “The goal was to get my WP colours; now that I’ve achieved it, I want to be selected for South Africa ”
The 36-year-old’s success on the competition stage comes only two years after being hospitalised as a result of diabetes.
“I want to become an ambassador for people with diabetes, to show them that if you controls yourself and take care of yourself, then you can achieve anything,” he shared The officer’s journey with diabetes
started with his diagnosis while on holiday in Durban in 2015 The self-proclaimed “fitness freak” suddenly found himself confined to bed, diagnosed with Type 2 diabetes
This was followed by eight years of patent denial, continuing his lifestyle prior to his diagnosis “There was not much control ”
But in 2023 his choices caught up with him when he was hospitalised with pneumonia in both lungs Weighing only 50 kg when discharged, Naidoo realised he had to make some life-changing choices
“I looked at myself in the mirror and said, ‘I cannot be that kind of example to my children or keep using diabetes as an excuse’,” he recalled
Motivated by his two young sons, Naidoo embarked on a new physical regime and health journey; one that saw a complete transformation of his body While at the gym, he met a 70-year-old bodybuilder who inspired him to take up the sport
He has also taken a keen interest in others living with diabetes, like two of his sons young friends, aged five and nine “I wanted to show these boys that the condition should not limit you – you can stil participate in sport ”
Valuable victory for RU on the road
Raithby Universals (RU) delivered a commanding 15-37 away victory against Rocklands in a Promotion League match that showcased their superior pace and attacking prowess from the opening whistle on Saturday 16 August.
The visitors immediately set an aggressive tempo that Rocklands struggled to match Seasoned flyhalf Brandon Manuel opened the scoring with an early penalty, setting the tone for what would become a dominant display by the Raithby charges (0-3)
RU quickly extended their lead with two tries by wingers Imeraan Flaendorp and O’Ryan Gordon, but both scores went unconverted (0-13) Gordon then crossed the whitewash for his second try, this time behind the posts, with Manuel adding the conversion (0-20)
Lezaine Botto secured the bonus point with another try, successfully converted by Manuel (0-27) Rocklands managed to respond with a penalty and a converted try, but trailed 10-27 at half-time
The second half continued in the same vein as Raithby maintained their relentless pressure
The prolific wing combination of Flaendorp and Gordon was relentless, with Flaendorp adding his
second five-pointer of the match and Gordon crossing over for his hat-trick, further extending the visitors’ advantage (10-37) Rocklands managed a consolation try late in the game, but it proved too little too late as Raithby secured a comprehensive 15-37 victory
The star performers were the wing duo of Flaendorp and O’Ryan Gordon and flyhalf Manuel, who contributed 12 points with his boot RU will enjoy a bye this weekend, before travelling to face Elsies River on Saturday 30 August, where they’ll look to maintain their impressive form
Meanwhile, in the other Promotion League encounter featuring a Helderberg Club, Sir Lowrians were on the road to lock horns with Morningstar in Durbanville
The Navy Train, however, could not secure the much-needed victory, falling 20-14 short at the final whistle
In the Challenger Cup, Gordon’s Bay Pioneers secured a convincing 61-17 victory over Cloetesville in their Pool B match played at the Navy Sports Ground in Gordon’s Bay
For Strand United, their fate seems to be sealed for the season and they will likely face relegation from Super League C after they
suffered a 28-16 defeat at the hands of Caledonian Roses in Athlone United, who currently occupy second-last place (14th) on the log, have one match remaining for the season, an outing against a spirited Violets team that will have their eye on the last top-six spot to reach the play-offs The match is set to be played at Chukker Road Sports Ground next week
Most Helderberg clubs have ended their seasons, with only All Saints having confirmed their place in the SLC play-offs Helderberg ended their season in 13th place in SLA, while Macassar narrowly missed out on a play-off spot in SLB, ending in seventh place Strand RFC have also closed off their season, finishing in ninth place in SLC
The Super League championship and play-off dates were confirmed last week, with the quarter-finals scheduled for Saturday 6 September, the semi-finals for Saturday 13 September and the finals set to be played on Saturday 20 September Fixtures for Saturday 23 August:
– SLA: Villager vs St George’s (Brookside); – Promotion League and Challenger Cup: No matches due to the Springboks vs Wallabies test
Sign up to be a purple daredevil
The annual Hollard Daredevil Run, which invites men to run 5 km wearing nothing but a purple Speedo, will be held countrywide on Friday 31 October.
With this year’s bold tagline, “Make your ballsiest move yet", the awareness campaign continues to push boundaries in the fight against prostate and testicular cancers. It aims to spark conversations, challenge stigmas and encourage early detection through testing to deal with life’s unknowns.
The official launch of the 2025 Hollard Daredevil Run took place today at Hollard Campus in Parktown, Johannesburg, where funds raised from last year's event were formally handed over to partners in the fight against male cancers - the Cancer Association of South Africa (Cansa) and the Prostate
Cancer Foundation With 2024 being yet another record-breaking year, with more "daredevils" taking to the streets than ever before, about R780 000 was raised Hollard topped up this amount up to bring it to a total of R1 million, which will be used to increase awareness, reducing uncertainty around cancer testing, especially in areas that don’t often have access to essential screening that can save lives
First launched 16 years ago, the Hollard Daredevil Run features a main event at Zoo Lake in Johannesburg, along with smaller runs in neighbourhoods, schools and universities nationwide, including Gordon's Bay and Strand
Prostate cancer remains one of the leading causes of cancer-related deaths in South African men According to South Africa’s National Cancer Registry, one in 15 men will
be diagnosed with prostate cancer International data shows that about one in four black men will be diagnosed with prostate cancer versus one in eight white men
Although less widespread, testicular cancer is the most common cancer in young men aged 15 to 35, affecting approximately one in every 2 000 men A simple one-minute shower self-examination to check for lumps, swelling, or changes in the testicles can save a young man's life, which is highly treatable when caught early
Participants can run on their own or in groups with friends, family, or colleagues anywhere in the country Register via Ticketpro at R180 per person, which includes the courier of a complimentary purple Speedo Formoreinformation,goto www hollard co za/daredevilrun
Naidoo proudly shows off with his bronze medal, which he claimed at the provincial natural bodybuilding championships, during a photoshoot at Gordon’s Bay Main Beach
Sergeant Jeremiah Naidoo was all muscle during the Western Province Natural Bodybuilding Championship in Paarl on Saturday 9 August He claimed a podium spot at the competition
SPORT
Woensdag,20Augustus2025
PVklopPearson
Die o.19A-rugbyspan van die Hoërskool Parel Vallei (PV) het te midde van reënerige en uitdagende toestande ’n kragtige vertoning gelewer vir ’n 20-10-oorwinning oor die Hoërskool Pearson in hul jaarlikse interskole-uitruil op plaaslike bodem te verseker.
Die wedstryd was van begin tot einde ’n uitputtende stryd, met albei spanne wat fisiek en vasberade gespeel het. Die besoekers van Gqeberha het sterk begin en PV onder druk geplaas, maar die tuisspan se onwrikbare verdediging en doeltreffende aanvallende spel het uiteindelik die deurslag gegee. Hierdie oorwinning – hul tweede agtereenvolgende triomf in die uitruil – het Parel Vallei se veerkragtigheid, dissipline en vasberadenheid beklemtoon. “Dit was ’n oorwinning wat op karakter en toewyding gebou is.”
Ondersteuners het die span se moed in moeilike toestande geprys. Die uitruil gaan egter oor veel meer as net sport – dit sluit ook kragmetings in kultuur en akademie in. Die jaarlikse geleentheid bied aan leerders, personeel en ouers van beide skole die kans om herinneringe te skep, kameraderie te bevorder en blywende vriendskappe oor provinsies heen te bou Parel Vallei is trots om te deel dat hul
eerste XI- meisies- én seuns-hokkiespanne as wenners van die veld gestap het, terwyl hul eerste netbalspan met slegs twee punte kortgeskiet het. Nog foto’s en uitslae van die uitruil-kragmetings op bl. 10
Die Hoërskool Parel Vallei se o 19A-rugbysan vier sy tweede agtereenvolgende rugbyoorwinning oor sy eweknieë van die Hoërskool Pearson (20-10) te midde van ondersteuners en verdere sportsukses in hokkie, wat die skool se uitnemendheid en gemeenskapsgees beklemtoon Foto’s: Peter Bee
Parel Vallei se vleuel Cade Lucas lei ’n aanval vir sy span tydens die rugbykragmeting teen Pearson
Vasgehou, maar vasbeslote! Diaan du Toit word getakel, maar weier om momentum vir PV te verloor en dryf voort ten spyte van ’n teenstander wat aan hom hang
PV se Noah Enyang jaag ’n Pearson-speler wat uit sy greep ontsnap het
PV se Renato Tosi (regs) in volle aksie