DistrictMail & Helderberg Gazette - E-Edition - 23 October 2024
Rape accused awaits sentencing Ex-cop is guilty
The long arm of the law caught up with a Lwandle police officer in the Wynberg Regional Court on Monday 14 October, when he was found guilty of raping a young pregnant woman six years ago.
The accused, Jerome Coetzee, was convicted of the charge brought against him following the sexual assault back in 2018.
DistrictMail previously reported on the heinous crime, which occurred on Wednesday 4 July 2018 when the then 18year-old expectant victim was supposedly taken into police custody by three police officers, including Coetzee, who raided the one-room flat she then shared with her boyfriend (“Local cop accused of heinous deed”, 12 July 2018).
In an interview granted to the publication on condition of anonymity, the victim who was around six weeks pregnant at the time, recalled being home alone when the trio appeared on her doorstep about 20:00. They claimed to be following up on a tip-off and searched the place for drugs. Moments later she was apparently informed that three small bags containing drugs were found and she was to be taken to the police station.
During the search, the policemen also allegedly took an amount of cash from a Bible and confiscated her cellphone and house keys, before
transporting her to the police station in an unmarked vehicle.
On arrival, the officers allegedly told her they would not be going inside. Instead, they were going in search of her boyfriend.
After a trip through the township, the three policemen took her back to the police station. Outside, two got out while Coetzee got behind the wheel, informing her he would continue the search with her in the vehicle.
“WE HOPE JUSTICE PREVAILS AND A HEFTY IMPRISONMENT IS HANDED DOWN TO THE ACCUSED”
The policeman, the victim’s account indicated, made a stop at Strand Police Station, where he told her to wait in the car before going inside. Returning minutes later, he allegedly told her: “I have helped you, now you must help me.” she recalled. At the time, she remained quiet amid tears.
The officer allegedly drove her to a dark spot at a local business park, where he parked the car, then allegedly forced himself on her and raped her inside the vehicle. He allegedly took her back to the house and returned her cellphone and some of the money taken during the search.
Urged by a friend, the young woman went to Lwandle Police Station at 08:30 the following
morning to report the incident, where she was helped by a caring officer. Yet police allegedly refused to take the case.
Following legal advice, she approached Strand police, who registered the case, and alerted the Independent Police Investigative Directorate (Ipid). The police watchdog’s officers accompanied her to Lwandle Police Station, where she positively identified Coetzee as the suspect, and they took her to a local hospital for medical treatment. Amid Ipid investigations Coetzee was charged and arrested for rape. Coetzee initially remained in service pending a disciplinary process. Lwandle police confirmed his dismissal in March last year.
The case against Coetzee has been postponed to Friday 29 November for sentencing.
Considering the developments in the case, DistrictMail & Helderberg Gazette reached out to the victim who expressed her satisfaction with the wheels of justice which turn slowly, but grind finely.
The now 25-year-old victim and mother to an almost sixyear-old daughter, whom she welcomed into the world following the traumatic ordeal, further shared feeling anxiously positive while awaiting the accused’s sentencing. “We hope that justice prevails and a hefty imprisonment is handed down to the accused,” said the Strand resident.
Jamey Gordon
Square rename consult ongoing
Jamey Gordon
The public-participation period for the proposed renaming of the Ben Friedman Plain to Strand Muslim Square remains ongoing.
This according to Alderman Eddie Andrews, the Deputy Mayor and Mayoral Committee member for spatial planning and environment, following an extension due to technical difficulty experienced by residents wanting to submit comments by using their mobile phones. Initially, the comment period was set to close on 30 September. However, due to technical issues that prevented residents from commenting via mobile devices, an extension was necessary. In response to these concerns, the City’s public participation office dispatched staff to assist community members and collect physical comments on Saturday 25 August. Consequently, the comment period has been extended.
The new comment period will run from Friday 1 to Saturday 30 November. Additionally, a public meeting is proposed to be held in Strand on Monday 18 November.
“The venue details will be relayed once the date is confirmed,” said Andrews. “In this public meeting members of the public will get the opportunity to voice their concerns and comment on the proposed renaming process.”
The public participation process was initiated by the City following an application for the name change
street
submitted earlier this year (“Plein set to be renamed”, DistrictMail & Helderberg Gazette, 14 August).
The application, submitted by Firgrove historian Ebrahim Rhoda and Feisal Daniels with the help of Professor Doria Daniels, seeks to rename the square in honour of the forcibly-removed Muslim community, as evidenced by the three mosques that still anchor the plain. The renaming process was started with applicants meeting the requirement to submit a renaming or naming proposal to the Executive Mayor or Public Participation Unit (PPU), which is then processed and reviewed by the Naming Committee (NC). If supported, a public-participation process is initiated and public comments are compiled and reviewed. The next step involves the NC making recommendations to the executive mayor, and if approved, the proposal is adopted by Council.
Photos: Yaseen Gaffar
Patrick Mentor of The Haven Night Shelter, Antoinette Meiring of the City of Cape Town Street People Unit and Hendrik Cloete of Helderberg Community Oriented Project Service.
Members of the Loswill Park Neighbourhood Watch, which is based in the Rusthof area in Strand, showed their support for the event and were tasked with safety and security, ensuring everyone had peace of mind. They also interacted with the homeless and assisted with the smooth running of the homeless awareness day.
Organisers hailed the day a success.
The City of Cape Town is continuing to engage locals in an extended public participation process for the proposed renaming of Ben Friedman Plain to Strand Muslim Square Photo: Jamey Gordon
Brand eis twee tuistes
J. Williams
Twee Macassar-huisgesinne is in sak en as nadat hul wonings in ’n verwoestende brand in puin gelê is.
Danalene Botha en haar gesin benodig die gemeenskap se broodnodige hulp om hul lewe te herbou nadat hul tuiste tot op die grond afgebrand en hulle alles in die tragedie verloor het. Botha vertel sy was by die werk toe sy verlede Maandagmiddag (14 Oktober) ’n boodskap ontvang het om haar in kennis te stel dat haar woning besig is om deur vlamme verswelg word.
Die harde werklikheid het eers by haar posgevat toe sy op die toneel aangekom en slegs die oorblyfsels van haar huis en alles wat hulle in hul lewe by erf 1176 in Kramat-weg gebou het, aangetref het.
“Ons het alles, soos in alles, in die brand verloor,” het Botha gesê. “Die vlammehel het absoluut alles in ons huis geëis; nie ’n enkele besitting kon gered word nie,” het Botha gesê. Sy en haar man het oor die jare hard gewerk vir wat hulle wou hê en saam harde klippe gekou vir die huis wat hulle self op die perseel gebou het. “In ’n oogwink is alles, ons hele wêreld, in vlamme op. Dis hartverskeurend,” het sy aangevoer.
Caroline Machelm was in haar bed besig om aan die slaap te raak toe haar huis vlamgevat
het. Sy het ’n gesuis gehoor wat haar wakker gemaak het.
Haar man, Rolond, het probeer om van hul besittings uit die huis te red, maar ter vergeefs. Hy het in die gefaalde poging brandwonde opgedoen. Die egpaar, het nes die Botha’s, ook alles verloor.
“Ons het ons familiefoto’s verloor en dit maak die seerste. Ons het al ons herinneringe verloor,” het ’n tranerige Machelm gesê.
Volgens Jermaine Carelse, ’n woordvoerder vir die Stad Kaapstad se brandweer-enreddingsdienste, het brandweerspanne omstreeks 13:55 op ’n noodoproep van drie huise wat in vlamme gehul is, gereageer. Altesaam 14 brandbestryders van die Macassar-, Strand- en Khayelitsha-brandweerstasies het met twee brandweerwaens, ’n
reddingsvoertuig en ’n watertenkwa op die voorval reageer. “Twee groot informele strukture is vernietig, wat sewe mense haweloos gelaat het,” het Carelse gesê. “Die oorsaak van die brand is steeds onbekend.”
Die Botha’s is genoodsaak om hul huis heeltemal te herbou en hoop om teen Kersfees weer in hul eie plekkie te wees.
Gevolglik vra hulle dat gemeenskapslede hul hande in die sak moet steek en hulle met enige skenkings of geldelike steun help.
Die gesin weet dat dit harde werk sal verg, maar hoop ook dat hulle hulp van vriendelike en vrygewige lede van die gemeenskap sal kry – eerstens om hul voete te vind en tweedens om hul huis te herbou.
“Enige boumateriaal of skenkings is meer as welkom,” het Botha gesê.
Indien jy aan die Botha-familie wil skenk of meer inligting wil hê, kontak asseblief vir Danalene by 072 230 6722.
Die Machelm-gesin begin herbou aangesien hulle in die huis reg langsaan woon waar hulle alles verloor het. Hulle is sonder elektrisiteit en een van hul kinders het nie ’n bed om op te slaap nie.
“Ons is geseën met ’n paar potte, maar ons benodig eetgerei en borde,” het Machelm bygevoeg.
Indien jy aan die Machelmfamilie wil skenk of meer inligting wil hê, kontak gerus vir Rolond Machelm by 084 219 3977.
Multiple-vehicle collision in Strand
Barend
Die huis in Kramat-weg ná die brand
Foto: Barend J. Williams
Three vehicles were involved in an accident in Main Road, Strand, on Sunday evening (20 October) around 20:00. It is alleged the driver of a white Tata Indica, driving in the direction of Beach Road, was overtaking when he lost control. Two other vehicles travelling in the opposite direction attempted to swerve out of the way, but collided with the Tata. No injuries were reported, but all three vehicles sustained significant damage and had to be towed away. Only an accident report was opened with police.
Photo: Strand Patrol/Facebook
Women in blue swop uniforms for pink to raise awareness
Strand police’s Women’s Network held a breast cancer awareness event on Wednesday (16 October) to give those in and out of blue a platform to speak about one of the most common cancers in women. The event started at Strand Police Station and included a dedication ceremony for those who lost their battle to cancer. Nursing sisters from Phambili Community Development were invited to give a presentation on breast cancer and provided a demonstration on how to perform a personal breast exam. All present received a free health screening, after which they took to Main Road, Strand, handing out pamphlets with information about breast cancer. The walk is part of the network’s mandate to help uplift women in the community, but more specifically the women of Strand Police Station. “We want to help maintain the health and mental well-being of women at our station,” said Sergeant Janine Memeza, chairperson of Women’s Network. Pictured above are the Women Network’s executive committee members. From left: Sergeant Janine Memeza (chairperson), Captain Theresa Ross, Sergeant Anna Tjale-Ubisse, Sanobia Smith, Zusiphe Mtyingzane, Telana Viljoen, Warrant Officer Anna Pretorius and Sergeant Patty Pretorius. Photos: Barend J Williams
A 42-year-old Nigerian national was arrested in a drug bust in Lwandle. According to a media statement released by provincial police, Operation Shanela officers deployed to the local area nabbed the suspect at his residence in Chante Heights, Strand, around 18:30 on Sunday 13 October. They found him in possession of 437 mandrax tablets, a small quantity of crushed mandrax powder, a scale and an undisclosed amount of cash, believed to be the proceeds of illicit drug trade. The suspect was expected to appear in the Strand Magistrates’ Court after being charged for dealing in drugs.
) A 42-year-old man from Somerset West was arrested for murder following a fatal stabbing incident which claimed the life of a 29-year-old victim.
According to Somerset West police spokesperson, Sergeant Suzan Jantjies, police officers were called to the crime scene in Victoria Street around 15:30 on Friday 18 October.
“Officers on arrival found the body of a 29-yearold man in Victoria Street,” said Jantjies. “Information was received and followed up which led to the arrest of the suspect.”
Jantjies further said that a case of murder was opened and the motive and circumstance surrounding the incident is still under investigation.
On enquiry Jantjies confirmed that the victim, believed to have been living on the street, succumbed to a stab wound in the chest. Station Commander, Colonel Jacolize Fleischmann commended the officers for the swift arrest.
) Somerset West police nabbed two suspects for drugs in operations conducted in two corners of the community on Tuesday 15 October.
According to Sergeant Suzan Jantjies, spokesperson for the Somerset West police, officers lead by Vispol Commander Lt Col JP du Toit swooped on several residential addresses known for selling illegal drugs around 12:00. A 17-year-old suspect was arrested after a search warrant was executed in Platinum Street, Chris Nissen Park and mandrax, tik and cash was seized. A 57-year-old man was arrested for dealing in drug after tik and cash was found as well as mandrax tablets and cash inside a residence after a search warrant was executed. Du Toit thanked the members for their hard work and dedication. All suspects were expected to appear in the Somerset West Magistrates’ Court for dealing in illegal drugs.
Those attending the Women’s Network breast cancer awareness event practised doing the personal breast exam.
Seated are Sergeant Anna Tjale-Ubisse and Sanobia Smith with Samantha van Reenen (standing in the back). They were all smiles and delighted to be part of the event.
Accused requests psych evaluation
Bianca Du Plessis
The 17-year-old male suspect accused of the murder of the Grabouw teen Deveney Nel will be back in the docks at the Caledon Magistrates’ Court on Friday 25 October.
The expected court appearance follows after an application for the accused to undergo psychiatric evaluation was submitted by the accused’s legal representatives during a brief court appearance on Wednesday 16 October.
On Friday, the court will be addressed on the application and the case heard in camera as the accused is a minor and being tried in accordance with the Child Justice Act. This means his identity may never be known, even after he turns 18.
During his appearance last week, gender-based violence (GBV) activists gathered outside the court, calling for the revision of the act, stating it protected juvenile suspects and perpetrators instead of victims.
Tanya Bippert of 1 Billion Rising, an international organisation fighting for justice for GBV victims, said: “One of the things we need to do is have the lawmakers go back to the Child Justice Act, because this act, which is supposed to protect Deveney Nel, is now protecting the alleged perpetrator.
“When these laws were drawn up there were isolated incidents [involving juvenile accused] but in present times, unfortunately, more and more crimes are being committed by minors.”
Regarding application for psychiatric
evaluation, Bippert described it as “a load of BS”.
“If you look at how he (reportedly) acted after the murder, it was very cold and calculated. He was allegedly involved in the search for her with the lift club, and I was told he even wrote a letter and took flowers to the memorial service.”
The suspect was arrested hours after attending a memorial service for Deveney, whose body was discovered in a storeroom at Caledon High School during a search. This after the 16-year-old victim had been reported missing after failing to show up for her lift from school to her home in Grabouw on Wednesday 7 August.
During the accused’s previous appearance in September, a petition asking that he not be released on bail, that he receive the maximum sentence if convicted and that he not be held in a place of safety for youth was handed to authorities. The petition was signed by more than 1 400 people.
Bippert called on the community to come out in their numbers on Friday to support not only the call for “Justice for Deveney Nel” but also “Justice for Dimpho Skelenge”. Skelenge’s body was found with several stab wounds on 7 September 2022 in a room she had rented when she moved to Caledon, reportedly to escape her ex-boyfriend Wiseman Ndara.
Ndara was arrested shortly after the gruesome find and charged with Skelenge’s murder. He will also appear in the Caledon Regional Court on Friday 25 October for plea and sentencing procedures.
Robber remains behind bars
A 24-year-old man from Somerset West was sentenced to 15 years’ imprisonment for robbery.
The sentence was handed down to the accused, Ryan Cupido, in the Somerset West Regional Court on Thursday 8 October.
This after Cupido was charged with two counts of robbery with aggravated circumstances following an incident dating back to November last year when he targeted two victims in De Beers Avenue. Armed with a firearm, Cupido held two friends up around 22:45 on Saturday 11 November and robbed them of their cellphones, clothes and bank cards before fleeing the scene.
A case of robbery with aggravating circumstances was registered and the
docket was assigned to Detective Constable Egen Charles at the Somerset West Detective Branch.
With intensive investigation Cupido was traced and positively arrested in connection with the case.
During the court proceedings Charles ensured that the suspect did not get bail and remained behind bars until his sentencing. Cupido received 15 years’ jailtime for two counts of aggravated robbery and five years’ imprisonment for the possession of a firearm. All counts are to run concurrently.
Station commander Col Jacolize Fleischmann lauded Charles for his outstanding investigation and remarked that the case would serve as a deterrent to criminals.
Fuel shortage claims refuted
Barend J. Williams
Helderberg motorists’ fears of a looming fuel shortage have been relayed by Astron Energy.
This after messages on social media sent locals in a spin at the weekend, claiming a possible fuel shortage was imminent.
However, Astron Energy refuted claims of a shortage, stating its Cape Town refinery had been affected by an “operational upset” at the weekend, which impacted its supply of unleaded petrol and diesel products.
“We are pleased to confirm that the situation has been resolved and the refinery is fully operational,” Astron Energy said on enquiry. “We are able to meet demands going forward. We regret any inconvenience caused.”
When claims of a possible fuel shortage surfaced motorists apparently rushed to local service stations to fill up their tanks. It is believed that this action may have exacerbated the situation, drying up the pumps at some of the stations in the Helderberg.
DistrictMail & Helderberg Gazette is aware of two stations – one in Strand and the other in Gordon’s Bay – that was without unleaded fuel over the weekend.
A manager of the BP Aqua Mall Service Station in Strand confirmed the facility was without fuel from 16:45 on Friday (18 October) until the pumps were filled at 23:10 the next day.
Furthermore, the BP in Beach Road, Gordon’s Bay, was apparently also without fuel on Sunday (20 October).
However, site manager Simon Dudu refuted these claims, saying the station did not experience any fuel shortage, instead pointing a finger at apparent maintenance issues experienced at the Cape Town refinery.
Several other service stations in the
Helderberg confirmed the facilities remained unaffected by the incident at the Astron refinery.
Johan Fouché, CEO of MBT Petroleum, said his company had been informed of a shutdown at the refinery as a result of maintenance issues. Consequently, MBT made arrangements with another refinery.
This meant the MBT service station on the corner of Gordon’s Bay Drive and Van Ryneveld Street in Strand was able to continue providing motorists with fuel during the period.
Fouché pointed out that operational hindrances at refineries are common occurrences, which does indicate a fuel shortage.
“It is not a national crisis when a few stations are without fuel,” said Fouché, further warning people to be careful when reacting to messages shared on social media, because it could lead to chaos.
Meanwhile, motorists face a possible hike in fuel prices for the first time in five months.
According to the Automobile Association (AA) unaudited data from the Central Energy Fund (CEF) shows fuel prices will increase as a result of higher international product prices and a steady softening of the Rand against the US dollar.
According to the CEF’s figures, ULP95 is expected to be slightly higher by around 14c a litre, while ULP93 is set for an increase of around 3c per litre. Diesel is expected to increase by between 14c and 13c per litre, while illuminating paraffin will increase by around 7c a litre.
Officially-adjusted fuel prices will come into effect on Wednesday 6 November. The official announcement of the November fuel-price adjustment by the Department of Mineral Resources and Energy is expected by Monday 4 November.
Serving community health since 1995
Yaseen Gaffar
Masincedane Community Service has expanded its operations in the Nomzamo area by offering services twice a week in Asanda Village, to provide essential health services to the local community. They work alongside the Nomzamo Clinic in a joint initiative that includes the Department of Health to address the community’s health-care needs, particularly in areas such as family planning, HIV, TB and immunisation of children.
According to Roger Allingham, Acting CEO of Masincedane, the plan has always been to reach as many people as possible who face several obstacles in the pursuit of health care. “We are grateful for the support of the Department of Health and the donors who have made this project possible.”
The new services in Asanda Village will add to their already existing offerings in Nomzamo and has already seen a surge in patients seeking its services. Marcia Torres, Masincedane’s Project Manager, emphasised the importance of working closely with the Nomzamo Clinic and Ikwezi Clinic to ensure the centre met the community’s needs. “We have identified a significant gap in health-care services in this area,” she said, “and we are committed to providing accessible care.”
The centre offers services twice a week, on Tuesdays and Wednesdays from 09:00 at the Christian Anointed Ministries Church. Its outreach programmes are conducted under the
Wendy Mankayi, April Chwayita and Asanda Gusha of Masincedane Community Service.
guidance of professional nurses and several health workers. Masincedane has served the community since 1995. With 103 community health workers operating in Asanda and Nomzamo, it has promoted health and wellness in the area successfully. “We have conducted outreach programmes on Sundays at various church services, and received overwhelming support,” said Allingham.
“We also plan a sports for freedom tournament to promote health and wellness and foster community engagement.”
Torres stressed gratitude for the funding provided by C-Sharp (Cape Town Systematic Healthcare Action Research Project), which has expanded community engagement and offered more services to the local residents and to Pastor Liko Makasi of the Christian Anointed Ministries Church and all who contribute to the programme’s success. . Masincedane also welcomes donations to support its programmes. To get in touch contact 021 854 6303/ 6311.
Ever since my early childhood our family has planned to spend at least one week per year in a game reserve. Life can get hectic; relationships can become humdrum; perspectives on life distorted. It is good to re-boot our emotional computers and reconnect with nature. We are fortunate in Africa to have a wealth of nature and game reserves, where we can experience natural Africa in all its diversity and raw beauty.
Over the years I have been struck with the observation that all wild animals, except in times of drought and famine, maintain a healthy weight. Some animals, like rhinos, elephants and hippos, are naturally large for good adaptive reasons.
However, I have never seen an obese giraffe or kudu or impala. Lions and leopards may look sleek and well-fed, but never obese. Hyenas and wild dogs maintain a healthy body weight in their natural state. But this ability to maintain a healthy weight is not shared by many domesticated dogs and cats. Why is this? It boils down to whether the animals are eating and behaving in ways for which they were designed.
Impalas, zebras and rhinos eat grass. Kudus and giraffe eat leaves from trees. Lions, leopards, hyenas and wild dogs are carnivores. Only three of 1,3 million animal species on this planet regularly have obesity issues – dogs, cats and humans. They are eating highly processed human or pet food. (Hopefully the humans are not eating pet food!)
Professor Barbara Rolls, a nutrition scientist at Pen State University, came up with the concept of energy-density of food. Highly processed foods such as chips, breakfast cereals, white bread, confectionary, sugar-sweetened beverages and oil, weight for weight, compared to whole foods contain dramatically higher levels of kilojoules.
Back to Basics
Dr Dave Glass
Many studies have shown we tend to eat the same weight and volume of foods at each meal. But if we eat highly processed and concentrated foods, we will ingest much larger amounts of kilojoules.
By contrast, if we are eating natural whole foods (as our wild animal friends do), the normal homeostatic mechanisms (we will learn more about that next month) are better able to help us maintain a healthy weight. Very often energy-dense (highly processed) foods are low in nutritional density. The least energy dense foods, yet highly nutritious foods, are salads and vegetables (50-150 kj per 100 g). Most fruit has around 200 kj/100 g. Boiled potatoes, beans and whole grains have around 300-500 kj/100 g. Contrast this with meat at around 600-1 000 kj/100 g, white bread and cheese, and pizza at 1 000 kj/100 g, chips at 2 000 kj/100 g, chocolate at 2 200 kj/100 g, and butter and olive oil at 3 300 kj/100 g. Plant foods in their natural state are high in water and fibre (no kilojoules) which increase satiety.
We can learn from our wild animal friends that eating the natural foods for which we were designed is the best way of maintaining a healthy weight.
Stellar success for star recruiter
Barend J. Williams
Chris Janneke is celebrating 21 years of making the stars align for his candidates with his recruitment company Virgo Personnel. With passion and diligence, he has been able to pair people with their dream jobs.
For the past two decades, Janneke has been assisting companies to find the best qualified employees by placing candidates in positions that they desire to exceed at. He does this by getting to know candidates during the interview process and he finds out what they really want to do in their careers.
Recruitment is more than just hiring someone.
“It changes people’s lives,” explained Janneke. “It’s now 21 years and when I make a placement, it’s still something really exciting for me.”
He knows all about how recruitment can change your life, as it changed his as well. He did not start his career as a recruiter, originally Janneke studied hospitality and worked in the hotel industry during the mid- and late-90s. It was in 2000 when he took a leap of faith and started at PAG Staff Service, where the 48-year-old spent three years learning the recruitment ropes. When Janneke mastered the skills that the company taught him, his entrepreneurial spirit kicked in. “I thought why work for somebody else?” explained the recruiter. “When I woke up the next morning, I said I’m going to open my own business.”
However, merely having the idea to start a business was not enough to make his dreams a reality. Janneke lacked the capital, and it is something that he struggled with during the early stages of setting up Virgo Personnel.
That did not stop him, as Janneke’s knack for recruitment made it possible for him to jump over all of the hurdles that running a fledgling business brings.
He did so by focusing and upskilling his candidates from the community of Macassar.
Janneke does so through his partnership with Rheinmetall Denel Munition (RDM), as he oversees the local RDM depot’s on-site Community Career Centre, in his capacity as centre facilitator.
Youth unemployment is a major issue in South Africa and Macassar is no exception. Candidates that haven’t completed their high school education present a major problem to Virgo Personnel.
This is the reason that Janneke prioritises young candidates and provides them with the necessary skills to find employment. These skills include interview training and computer literacy among others.
Janneke believes by instilling these skills in his candidates it will not only benefit the candidate and the companies he is recruiting for but also himself. “I’ve got good relationships with all my candidates because I believe they will become my clients at the end of the day,” added Janneke.
The reason Virgo Personnel has been able to exist and thrive for 21 years is because its owner understands the passion for finding the perfect job and the benefits of the perfect career. That’s because he himself has found his calling.
“This is what I love doing,” concluded Janneke. “If I have to choose between a doctor and being what I am now, I would want to be a recruiter, because I can see the quality of my work and I can see the changes that I’m making.”
Careers Day at Greyville Park
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The owner and founder of Virgo Personnel, Chris Janneke. Photo: Barend Williams
The Victoria Park Neighbourhood Watch (VPNW) team (pictured) organised a community Careers Day at Greyville Park in Victoria Park on Saturday 19 October to bring residents and businesses together. The event was planned
three months and included various activities for those attending,
horse rides,
K9 Unit demonstration
fire truck tours. The event also featured
leaders
representatives from the University of Johannesburg, who distributed study materials to interested residents. Food, drinks and party packs were provided
attending,
event was a success, with many expressing
appreciation
become an annual event. VPNW chairperson Ben Venter extended a word of thanks and appreciation to every sponsor who made the day a success, including the City of Cape Town, Lee le Roux, SPAR Lion Square, ACDC, ADT, Vetus Schola and Wash n Vac mobile car wash. Photos: Yaseen Gaffar
The K9 Unit demonstration was one of the highlights.
ADT showed its support. From left: Anne-lize Steinberg, Ricardo Arends, Craig Nieuwoudt, Shaun Cupido and Yolande Brink.
Francois Siljeur, MC of the event, giving his welcome address.
Frieda Ferreira and Denise Beukes enjoyed interacting with the horses.
Stephan Meyer and Garth le Roux of ACDC.
Amy van Rooyen and Nico van der Walt were all smiles.
SOS Africa Children’s Charity is thrilled to announce that Ameleo Benans, an exemplary learner sponsored by the non-profit organisation (NPO), has been appointed Head Boy of Grabouw High School for the 2025 academic year. This is a historic first for an SOS Africasponsored child and has generated excitement across the charity’s education programmes in South Africa. Ameleo was part of the first group of Grade 1 children sponsored by SOS Africa – a grassroots NPO which funds the education and care of disadvantaged township children to help them break out of poverty – back in 2014. Over the years he and other sponsored children have thrived thanks to the holistic education and care provided by the charity’s Grabouw Education Centre and the support of global sponsors. Ameleo’s appointment was announced at a school assembly, and he expressed his gratitude and commitment to fulfilling his new role. SOS Africa Grabouw Centre Manager Sharnice Barties and Ameleo’s parents, Andre and Suraya Benans, also shared their pride and gratitude for this achievement. The charity extended its heartfelt congratulations to Ameleo and wishes him success in his new role.
Oudleerders dans in oorspronklike uniforms
Dr. G.J. Joubert Primêre Skool se alumnikomitee het Saterdag 12 Oktober ’n terug-skool-toe-disko gehou. Die dans is gehou om geld in te samel vir die plaveisel van die parkeerplek buite die skoolsaal. Oudleerders het in hul ou skooldrag opgedaag en is teruggevoer na hul jeug. Op die foto is die alumnikomitee met “Jubbie Fever”. Foto: Barend J. Williams
Summies score a family fun goal!
These guys were among many father-and-son partners who revelled in an action-packed camping adventure. From fun-filled touchies games to an exciting potjiekos competition, the event highlighted teamwork and making memories. Pictured (back, from left) are Juhaar Fanie, Marshall Sauls; (front) Zane Mentoor, Leighton Hendricks, Aqeeb Fanie and Liam Sauls.
Somerset West Primary School was abuzz with local families engaging in quality time spent as father-and-son duos enjoyed an overnight camp on the sport field on Friday 11 October and mother-and-daughter pairs dressed up for a delightful morning picnic on Saturday 12 October.
Bonding over some good old fun was the order of the day for moms and daughters at the picnic. Enjoying a yoga session that kickstarted the eventful morning were Cleo Hendricks, Amru Hendricks, Cady Williams and Lilly-Rose Macdonald.
Teacher Tatum Jooste (second, from left) pictured with girls Zia Baikey, Mienke-May Williams and Emily Geswindt.
The best-dressed among the lot were Monique and Laiken Darius, Ruché and Simone Booysen, and Zoë and Debbie Michaels.
Bee-autiful gardens for viewing delight
Helderberg Hospice Open Gardens 2024 will take place over the entire weekend of 25-27 October.
This year’s bumper festival includes 15 beautifully curated gardens, activities for children, plant sales, refreshment sales, a pop-up hospice thrift shop, with all proceeds funding our palliative care projects in the community.
Included in this year’s Open Gardens Festival is the Yellow Box for Hospice competition, proudly brought to you by the Cape Honey Bee Conservancy. In commemoration of Breast Cancer Awareness Month in October, Lourens and Dylan Kruger from the Conservancy donate all their fees to a
very grateful Helderberg Hospice. The father-and-son duo have been dedicated supporters of Hospice for many years and were called to remove an enormous swarm just three days before the 2022 instalment of the Open Gardens Festival. The pair will be at Helderberg Hospice Open Gardens this weekend and would love to discuss their passion for bees with you and spread their message of “saving one bee at a time”.
Robert de Wet, CEO of Helderberg Hospice, said support from people and businesses in the community is invaluable in sustaining the palliative care that Hospice provides. This supports people in the community living with a life-threatening illness.
Vergelegen wins innovation award for wine tourism
Vergelegen Wine Estate, long renowned for its commitment to protecting history and heritage, has just been officially recognised for its innovation too.
The 324-year-old Somerset West estate scooped the Innovative Wine Tourism Experiences award in the 2025 Best Of Wine Tourism and Wine Tourism Ambassador Awards on Wednesday 16 October.
Initiated by Great Wine Capitals 26 years ago, the Best Of Wine Tourism Awards are a key guide for local and international tourists seeking authentic experiences, from vineyard visits and festivals to exclusive wine tastings. Vergelegen is home to a 1 900-ha private nature reserve with the same conservation status as the Kruger National Park. Guests can book for a guided environmental tour in a game drive vehicle, and learn more about the estate’s alien vegetation clearing project, the largest privately funded project of its type in South Africa. The alien vegetation clearing has resulted in the return of abundant natural vegetation, birds, mammals, and rare and endangered plants. Guests can view indigenous Nguni cattle, bontebok,
eland, rare “Rau” quagga, black wildebeest and red hartebeest, and learn about providing natural forage for honey bees.
The estate also offers wine tastings, cellar tours, manor house and garden tours, and a selection of restaurants, appealing to all ages and pockets.
“Winning the award is just incredible,” said Vergelegen managing director Wayne Coetzer. “This accolade is an endorsement of our staff who have worked extremely hard to ensure this beautiful estate’s facilities and hospitality are absolutely world-class.
“We pride ourselves on offering true hospitality, which is so different to service. Hospitality is the way you make people feel. Every person who comes to this farm must have an incredible experience and feel spoilt.”
The environmental tour is weatherpermitting, departing from the wine tasting centre at 10:00. Duration is two hours, R750 per person, maximum nine people. This includes a cap, water bottle and Heritage Range wine tasting. Contact 021 847 2122 or mail winetasting@vergelegen.co.za. https://vergelegen.co.za, or email tocustomerservices@vergelegen.co.za.
Pictured at the beautiful Morgenster Estate, home to the Cape Honey Bee Conservancy, are Lourens and Dylan Kruger with Robert de Wet. The boxes were made possible by the generosity of Timbuild Somerset West and the handiwork of carpenter Oom Hennie Riffel (not pictured). The Hyundai Staria is a generous loan from Hyundai Somerset West.
Vergelegen scooped the Innovative Wine Tourism Experiences award in the 2025 Best Of Wine Tourism and Wine Tourism Ambassador Awards. Pictured (from left are) Arnoux Tredoux (Vergelegen wine-tasting room manager), Caroline van Schalkwyk (Vergelegen marketing manager), Roxan Waldeck (Apeirogon Youth Development Academy founder), Monika Iuel (Wesgro chief tourism officer), and Cape Winelands District Municipality executive mayor Alderman Dr Helena von Schlicht.
Diary | Dagboek
DONDERDAG 24 OKTOBER
) Strand: AGS CHARISMA STRAND se gholfdag vind van 12:00 by die Strandgholfklub plaas. Die kompetisie is in die formaat van ’n vierbal-alliansie. Die koste beloop R2 400 per vierbal. Borg ’n putjie teen R1 000. Vir navrae en skenkings, kontak Ria by 062 706 9112 of info@agscharisma.com.
FRIDAY 25 OCTOBER
) Somerset West: SOMERSET WEST
PRIMARY SCHOOL hosts its fundraising Summies Golf Day at the Somerset West Golf Club. Avid golfers are implored to
take a swing for a cause by entering for a spot in the Four-ball Betterball competition. The cost is R2 400 per fourball or R600 per person. Participants will tee-off from 11:00 to 13:00. For more information, send an email to sabri.jacobs@wcgschools.gov.za or kerwin.felton@wcgschools.gov.za.
SATURDAY 26 OCTOBER
) Somerset West: The COUNTRY CRAFT MARKET returns to Southey’s Vines at 186 Main Road, from 09:00 to 14:00. All the crafters at the market have been hard at work during the winter recess to ensure tables are full. There will be a wide variety of quality handmade clothing, crafts and art available, with each crafter selling his own wares. Refreshments are plentiful, with the
chance to relax while listening to live music. Well-behaved pooches on leashes are very welcome. There is free, safe parking behind the market venue. For enquiries, contact Lesley on 021 843 5002 or info@countrycraftmarket.org.
) Somerset West: ST PAUL’S CATHOLIC CHURCH holds a charity book sale at its premises in Andries Pretorius Street from 09:00 to 12:00. Local bookworms can look forward to pre-loved books in excellent condition of all genres, including a wide variety of fiction, nonfiction and children’s books. There will also be selected books for R5 each. Card facilities will be available and tea, coffee and cake on offer. Contact Carole Gambrell on 084 299 9023.
) Somerset-Wes: ACVV TINKTINKIEKLEUTERSKOOL hou ’n markdag van
The Economic Development and Investment Department is in the process of demarcating trading sites for mobile business operations across the City 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 to the municipality until 2 November 2024
Members of the public and interested and affected parties are invited to attend an open day session where the draft mobile business trading areas can be viewed:
31 October 2024 Subcouncil 16 office, 11th floor, 44 Wale Street, Cape Town 14:00 to 18:00
Comments, input or recommendations can be submitted by:
Email: Mobile BusinessPolicy@capetown gov za
Website: www capetown gov za/haveyoursay
Hand: All subcouncil offices
Please contact the relevant area official listed below if you have any enquiries about the proposed mobile business trading areas:
Area North: Kwanda Lande on Kwanda Lande@capetown gov za or 021 444 7694
Area Central: Sive Makonco on Sive Makonco@capetown gov za or 021 400 7483
Area East: Racquel Lombard on Racquel Lombard@capetown gov za or 021 417 4070
Area South: Sadia Nanabhay on Sadia Nanabhay@capetown gov za or 021 417 4139
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 input recorded and submitted to the municipality Contact Anthea Bendie on 021 400 1450 or Anthea Bendie@capetown gov za
The proposed mobile trading areas will be available for viewing on the City’s website, www.capetown.gov.za/haveyoursay, at all subcouncil offices, and at City Libraries.
LUNGELO MBANDAZAYO
CITY MANAGER
CTA115A/2024
08:00 tot 14:00 op die skoolterrein in Dummerweg. Almal is welkom om die joligheid te geniet! Vir meer inligting, kontak die kleuterskool by 021 851 4954 / 081 579 0458 of acvvtintinkie20@gmail.com.
SUNDAY 27 OCTOBER
) Somerset West: BROADLANDS MANOR and Die Kunshuis Collaboration presents yet another seasonal art exhibition at The Manor House. Locals are warmly invited to celebrate the opening of the Spring Art Exhibition from 14:00 to 17:00. Bring along a bottle of wine (at no corkage). There will be home-made pizzas for sale and live entertainment. For more information, call 084 548 5441 or 082 894 9792.
MAANDAG 28 OKTOBER
) Strand: Die CHRISTELIKE AFHANKLIKHEIDSDIENS OF CHRISTIANS AGAINST DRUGS (CAD) nooi almal wat probleme met middelafhanklikheid het na sy byeenkoms om 19:00 in die kerksaal van die NG kerk Strand se Moedergemeente op die hoek van Birkenhead- en Faganstraat. Bel Gerrit by 073 336 3119 of Werner by 082 826 0972 vir enige navrae.
THURSDAY 31 OCTOBER
) Somerset West: The HELDERBERG STROKE SUPPORT GROUP holds its annual general meeting at the Helderberg Society for the Aged’s Silver Oaks Lodge, 17 Reitz Street, from 10:00 to 12:00. Interested individuals are implored to note that transport will not be provided to and from the venue. RSVP to 079 612 8903 or ceo@hssg.org.za before Friday 25 October.
) Strand: The STRAND COMMUNITY POLICING FORUM (CPF) will hold a special elective annual general meeting at the Bethesda Evangelical church located on the corners of Stork and Arend Street in Broadlands Park, Strand, from 18:00 to 20:00. On the agenda will be the election for various CPF positions, including chairperson. The meeting is intended for CPF elective committee members, police and
Irrepressible stand-up comic and self-proclaimed goat-whisperer Nik Rabinowitz returns to The Drama Factory on Saturday 2 November with his latest stand-up show Pension Killer. It’s a brave, new, and hilarious world, seen through the eyes of a slightly heroic ageing comedian. You may know Rabinowitz as the presenter of Radio 702’s The Week that Wasn’t with Redi Thlabi, or as the voice of Archbishop Desmond Tutu on ZA News, or as Francois Pienaar’s body double in the naked shower scene in Invictus He’s toured Australia, Canada, the US and the UK, where among others he appeared at The Royal Albert Hall, on BBC 2’s Mock the Week and from behind a bush on Hampstead Heath. Born in a converted stable on a farm outside Cape Town, he grew up climbing trees and commentating on his own rugby games in three of the country’s official languages, later attending a Waldorf school, where he learnt to plant organic vegetables, express his feelings through interpretive dance and crochet his own underpants. Pension Killer is his 16th stand-up special and will have the audience in stitches at 19:30. Tickets cost R250 and can be booked online at thedramafactory.co.za.
Photo: Russell Smith
community safety representatives, and delegates of all organisations listed on the Strand CPF database. For more information, contact Warrant Officer Nico Beukes on 079 346 8755.
Ons Plek Strand se 10de bestaansjaar gevier
Solidariteit Helpende Hand het Ons Plek Strand se tiende bestaansjaar op Vrydag 11 Oktober gevier. Belanghebbendes het onder die bakkende somerson by Ons Plek Strand se fasiliteit in Woltemadestraat bymekaargekom om dankie te sê vir almal wat hulle bygestaan het en saam met sy ondersteuners brood te breek. Die bestuurder, Joey Lötter, het almal bedank vir die dekade se bystand. Ons Plek Strand het vandat hy sy deure amptelik op Maandag 19 Januarie 2015 geopen het, saam met sy borge meer as ’n duisend kinders gehelp. Die fasiliteit, wat soos ’n kleuterskool en naskoolsentrum vir behoeftige kinders in die Strand bedryf word, sien uit na nog tien jaar se diens. (Bo): Ons Plek Strand se bestuurder, Joey Lötter Foto: Barend J. Williams
The City of Cape Town is constantly looking and investing in ways to support various business sectors A recent example is the
Die Buitelewe- en Avontuur-ekspo is terug!
Die jaarlikse Buitelewe- en Avontuur-ekspo is vanjaar van Vrydag 8 tot Sondag 10 November terug by die Elgin-sportklub buite Grabouw. Die byeenkoms behels uitstallings van die jongste buitelewe- en avontuurleefstyl-voertuie en -toerusting en is op die hele gesin gemik. Dit sluit gewone en veldrywoonwaens, 4x4-veldryvoertuie, nutsmotors en veral sportnutsvoertuie sowel as kampeer- en ander toerusting vir ’n vakansie of leefstyl in die veld in. Talle ander uitstallers sal ook betrokke wees, waaronder kos-, koffie- en wynuitstallers, ’n biertuin en vele meer. Die ekspo is nie net nog ’n skou en gewis nie ’n vlooimark nie – dit is ’n volbloed-buitelewe- en avontuur-ekspo vir die hele gesin. Kaartjies is by TicketPro te koop en die volledige program is by www.lrclassic.com te sien.
Safe, well-equipped hatch
Wallace du Plessis
Suzuki’s B-segment hatch, the Swift, which is also effectively its most important model, has just been redeveloped to stay ahead of the pack nipping at its heels.
It was made public at the Festival of Motoring at Kyalami in August, revealing a fresh design, new engine and all-new CVT option.
There are five models in the new Suzuki Swift range. They range from the entry-level Swift 1.2 GL with manual transmission, to the range topping 1.2 GLX CVT. Pricing has been kept tight, giving good value for money.
In some ways the Swift is the flagship of the range in South Africa, where more than 85 000 have been sold since the original local launch in 2008. This fourth generation model in SA gets the Z12E naturally aspirated three-cylinder engine that delivers 60 kW and 112 Nm through a five-speed box. Suzuki claims a fuel consumption of 4,4 l/100 km, but expect to get just below 5 l/100 km.
The new Swift is 20 mm longer with a 265-litre boot, which now features a more versatile 60:40 rear bench split, and access is lower than before.
The interior appears to be slightly more premium than the outgoing model and specification is a step up.
The whole range now has
power steering, digital climate control, a digital information display in the instrument cluster, three-point seatbelts for all five occupants, rear LED tail lamps with a high-mounted LED stop lamp, an immobiliser and alarm, rear parking sensors and electrically adjustable and foldable side mirrors. Standard across the entire range is electric windows on all four doors, a height-adjustable driver’s seat and a rear bench that can fold in a 60/40 configuration. From a safety point of view all models in the new Suzuki Swift line-up have six airbags as standard, as well as Electronic Stability Programme (ESP), hill hold control and emergency brake assist. Add to this ISOFIX tethering points at the rear and you have a very safe and well-equipped vehicle
Car magazine got to test a pre-production unit. It said: “Suzuki hasn’t strayed far from the formula that made the previous Swift such a success, rather smoothing out some of the less resolved areas, working on refinement, and adding some welcome features to already good levels of standard specification. Factor in competitive pricing, and it looks as if they’ll have another winner on their hands.” We will be testing the new Swift early November and give readers a full review with driving impressions then.
Suzuki has redeveloped its Swift hatchback, unveiling a new design, engine, and CVT option, with five models offering enhanced features and competitive pricing, making it a strong contender in the B-segment hatch category. Photo: Wallace du Plessis
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U-12 tourney a success
The annual Macassar FC u12 soccer tournament, hosted from Wednesday 16 to Sunday 20 October at Riverside Park, has once again proven a resounding success.
Now in its 17th year, the tournament aims to provide exposure to different leagues and styles of play for young footballers. This time around it attracted 32 teams from all corners of Cape Town.
Organiser and Macassar FC chairman David Cupido described it as a great platform for players who have never played together before to come together and showcase their skills.
“Three local teams from the Helderberg region, including YSD Macassar, Macassar and Lwandle, participated in the event,” he said.
“Despite the logistical challenges posed by the large number of teams, the tournament ran smoothly, with most matches played during the week and the
finals over the weekend,” he said.
The winning team, Westridge FC, received a cash prize of R5 000. They defeated Liverpool Portlands in the final.
Cupido expressed his gratitude to the clubs, community and sponsors for their unwavering support for the tournament.
“We are incredibly thankful for the support we received from the community, clubs, parents, and sponsors,” he said.
“Build More was our primary sponsor, providing meals for all the kids on Saturday and Sunday, as well as sponsoring T-shirts. Aquelle sponsored juices, and we also had other generous sponsors.”
Macassar’s u-12 team, who play in the Northern Suburbs LFA, emerged as the champions of the knockout tournament earlier this year. Their impressive performance highlighted the promising talent within the junior ranks.
Macassar FC’s u-12 team, pictured with Macassar FC chairman David Cupido (far left).
Game-changer tackles gender norms
Yaseen Gaffar
In a groundbreaking move that defies traditional gender stereotypes, a 22year-old woman is at the helm of senior men’s club rugby team, Strand United, and in doing so is becoming a trailblazer in the sport.
Gaamiela Josephs, known among her peers as “Gaamo”, who is a provincial rugby player and member of the Springboks women’s 7s development programme, has been appointed the skills coach under head coach Taariq van der Ross. Her appointment marks a significant milestone in the evolution of rugby, as women continue to break barriers and challenge long-held assumptions about their capabilities in male-dominated sports.
“I’m still actively playing rugby myself, so the transition to coaching hasn’t been too difficult,” Josephs said in an interview with DistrictMail & Helderberg Gazette
“I’ve always been a coachable player,
eager to learn and ask questions. My experience as a player gives me a unique perspective on the game and allows me to connect with the players on a deeper level.”
At her young age she already has a strong coaching background, having coached various school-boy rugby teams and a free skills-development programme in Strand.
Josephs attended Strand Moslem Primary and later Gordon High School, which laid the foundations for her rugby to flourish.
“I’ve started a free skills-development programme in Strand called ‘Goal-driven Skills Development’, in which I offer skills sessions to the youth. From my programme I have managed to get 21 players to represent Western Cape Touch Association in the Junior Interprovincial Touch Tournament, and one of the players received MVP in his age category.”
Josephs’ passion for the sport and her dedication to her players has earned her the respect of her team and the community.
Finally, victory for Rovers
Helderberg Rovers FC, a local soccer club based in Asanda Village, Strand, has achieved a historic milestone by clinching their firstever league trophy and have qualified for the play-offs for a place in the Hollywood Bets Mens Regional League (previously SAB League).
The team has been competing in the Helderberg Local Football Association (HLFA) for 24 years and this achievement marks their best performance yet.
According to Isaac Nosana, the club’s media and marketing manager, the journey to this victory was not without its challenges. “The pre-season wasn’t the best,” he admitted. “We started with a struggle in terms of assembling the team. We only had seven players, but we persevered.”
Despite the rocky start the team
kept going. “For everyone who is part of the Helderberg Rovers FC family, management, players and supporters, to write this history in the Helderberg football league finally is something I don’t have words to explain,” Nosana said. “It’s a tremendous feeling and experience.”
The victory comes after years of near misses. In 2022, the team lost by a narrow goal difference, and in 2023 they finished in third place. This year, however, they were able to secure the coveted trophy.
As the team prepares for the upcoming play-offs, Nosana expressed his hope for continued success. “Now we’re busy with the preparations for the play-offs,” he said, “which I pray that we will do justice and do our supporters proud.”
Details on dates and fixtures of play-offs have yet to be published.
“I believe that hard work beats talent if talent isn’t working hard,” she said. “That’s something I emphasise to all my players, regardless of their age or skill level.”
While Josephs acknowledges there may be stereotypes associated with female coaches she is determined to prove gender does not define her abilities.
“I’ve faced challenges in the past, but I’ve always focused on equipping myself with the knowledge and skills I need to succeed. I’ve had some great mentors who have supported me along the way, and I’m grateful for their guidance.”
Josephs has ambitious goals for the future, including coaching a female international team and a provincial men’s team. She hopes to inspire other young women to pursue their dreams in the world of sports.
Her appointment has been met with both enthusiasm and scepticism, but she remains undeterred.
“I’m excited to see more women breaking barriers in sports,” she said. “It’s important for young girls to have role models who can show them that anything is possible.”
Asked for comment, Van der Ross said: “As Head Coach I’m extremely proud to have her on my Staff. ‘Gaamo’ has been playing provincial, then international rugby since she was 13. One day when she is coaching at international level, we want her to say that she got her big break at Strand United.”
Die plaaslike gimnaste is, agter van links: Danelle Groenewald (afrigter), Corné Human, Izaak Uys, Travis Giles, Kiran Condon, Marne Potgieter, Ellard Rademeyer, Paul Visser (afrigter) en Tabo Mkandawire (afrigter). Tweede ry van agter: Benjamin Ludick, Sebastiaan Jordaan, Leia Schryvers, Clara van der Vyver, Sofia Kröger, Stefan van der Waal, David Zietsman en Reinhardt Dick. Tweede ry van voor: Mareece Hendrikse, Kara van der Merwe, Lindi de Villiers, Alera Janson, Elizabeth van Zyl, Kate Bands, Xéa Kröger, Layla Kemp en Sophia Castleden. Voorste ry: Aria Sass, Amelia Nieuwoudt, Mimi Viviers, Ava-Mae Hendriksz, Layla Hagedorn-Hansen, Addison Bothwell, Luna Wessels, Shenae Cillie, Mira Snyman en Annabelle Prinsloo. Afwesig: Sienna Shedden en Neil van Schaik.
Plaaslike gimnaste blink uit by SA gimnastiekspele
Gimnaste van Somerset-Wes en Stellenbosch was lid van die Stellenboschgimnastiekklub se span wat onlangs vir die Suid-Afrikaanse Gimnastiekspele gekwalifiseer het.
Benewens die drie afrigters en twee beoordelaars is 35 artistiese gimnaste van Stellenbosch Gimnastiek gekies om by die nasionale kampioenskap diens te doen. Dit was die klub se grootste groep nog wat vir die nasionale kompetisie gekies is.
Vanjaar is die kampioenskap in die Wes-Kaap aangebied en die plaaslike klub, by The Shed op die Spierwynlandgoed, was gereed vir die week lange kompetisie, wat Maandag 23 September begin het.
Sowat 2 500 gimnaste het in agt verskillende gimnastiek-dissiplines
deelgeneem. “Ons was bly vir die tuisvoordeel. Uiteindelik is die nasionale Spele weer in die Kaap,” het die klubeienaar, Gerhard Swiegers, gesê.
“Ons is baie in ons noppies met die uitslae. Dit was veral ons seniors wat uitgeblink het en dit is wat ons wil hê. Dit is jare se afrigting en harde werk wat nou ten toon gestel word. Dit is wonderlik om te sien hoe hulle só op die heel beste vlak uitgeblink het.
“Daar is natuurlik ook die jonger gimnaste wat in die pyplyn is en die goeie resultate van die meer senior klublede gee hulle ook ’n doelwit om na te streef,” meen hy.
Volgens die organiseerders het al die deelnemers hul beste vertonings gelewer, en met ongelooflike krag, uithouvermoë en vasberadenheid deelgeneem.
In the estate of the late PETA JANE MAINE, Identitynumber: 601023 0301 189 of 16 Guardian Crescent, Erinvale, Somerset West, 7130 who diedon18March2020(Estateno:006577/2020
Josephs is an active rugby player and member of the Springboks women’s 7s development programme.
Two students from the False Bay Ring Contact Fighting Arts Club participated in the Tricore Legends Spring Fury Championships held in Kraaifontein recently. Pictured (from left) are Shihan Gert Kotzee (Instructor), Matthew King (2nd and 3rd place) and Jordan Holmes (2nd place).
Members of Helderberg Rovers FC celebrate winning the Helderberg LFA League trophy.
Local teams fall short with bat and ball
Search still on for first win
A second loss in two games has spelt a slow start to the league season in First Division A for Hottentots Holland Cricket Club, who lost by 40 runs on Saturday 19 October against Gugulethu CC at the Gordon’s Bay Naval grounds.
In First Division B, Somerset West Cricket Club (SWCC) were also in the losing end in their league season opener when they were outplayed by Belhar CC.
Gugulethu batted first and the openers got off to a slow start and continued the trend throughout the innings, losing their first wicket in the eighth over. A mammoth 165 run second wicket partnership followed until the 44th over when Gugulethu increased the tempo towards the end, eventually closing their innings on 234/7. The pick of the bowlers for HHCC was Curtley Klaasen, with figures of 4/32.
HHCC went in to bat and started off positively but once again, the loss of wickets halted the progress and they were soon at 56/3 after 19 overs.
Naeem Rhoda (27) was well in his stride, bringing HHCC back into the game, but a lack of concentration caused an unwanted run-out.
Yaasin Jakoet (24) joined opener Hishaam Slamdien and the two made sure to steady the run-chase and slowed things down.
The fall of Jakoet and Slamdien (37) halted the chase with HHCC on 134/7 after 42 overs. Some inspiring shots and determination by Klaasen (24) and Shaameel Abels (18) gave HHCC a glimmer of hope, but in the end they fell short by 40 runs as they were bowled out for 196. HHCC’s next fixture is an away game against United CC.
SWCC lost the toss against Belhar and were asked to bat first, and were in early trouble on 2/3 and could never recover, eventually bowled out for a mere 67. Belhar CC went in to bat and got the score in the 12th over, winning by seven wickets.
This weekend SWCC will host Blue Bells CC at Radloff Park.
In First Division D, Strand CC lost to Mitchell’s Plain CC in a league match played at Gustrouw.
Mitchell’s Plain batted first and despite some good bowling were able to post a total of 200 all out.
Strand CC did their best to put up a fight during the run chase but the fall of wickets at regular intervals halted progress, and they were eventually bowled out for 137.
Also in First Division D, Helderberg Cricket Club (HCC) similarly lost their league match against Bellville South CC, defeated by six wickets.
HCC batted first and Gregan Mouers (42) and Jody Sylvester (27) were the only significant contributors as they guided the team to a total of 138 all out. In response, Bellville South CC cruised to the total, scoring 142/4.
This weekend sees Strand Cricket Club against Helderberg CC in a league match on Saturday and Ama20 fixture on Sunday, both games at Gustrouw.
In the Second Division, Macassar Cricket Club will face Lentegeur CC in an away fixture this Saturday.
Waleed Smith, captain of Hottentots Holland Cricket Club, leading by example in the field in their match against Gugulethu on Saturday (19 October). Photo: Peter Bee
