Nadia: Appolissal 22 jaar sit
JameyGordon
Charles Appolis is die afgelope Donderdag (19Maart) in die Strand-streekshof vir die moord op Nadia Lotz,die ma van sy drie minderjarige kinders,gevonnis
Die vonnisopleggingvolg nadat die beskudigde op Vrydag 20Februarie skuldig bevindisaan die moord, wat drie jaar gelede gepleeg is.
Die 32-jarigemavan TemperanceTown is op 4Maart 2023 in ’n noodlottige mesaanval op ’n rit vanStrandnaGordonsbaai vermoor (“Pa vermoor glo ma van 3”, DistriksPos &Helderberg Gazette,8Maart 2023)
Dieverhoor het in Julie verlede jaar ná ’n langdurige ondersoek begin.
Die vervolging se saak het sterk gesteun op die ooggetuie, vriendin en kollegaKristineMoodley, wat getuighet dat Appolis Lotz van agter aangevalhet terwyl sy (Moodley) bestuur het.
Die aanval het plaasgevind nadat die paartjie en Moodley by ’n park en later by ’n kroeg gekuier het.
Terwyl Moodley bestuur het met Lotz in diepassasiersitplek en Appolis agter, hethyskielik ’n mes uitgehaal, Lotz se keel gesny en haar herhaaldelik daarmee gesteek. Lotz hetuit die bewegende voertuiggeval en later aan veelvuldige steekwonde gesterf.
Appolis het Moodley met die mes gedreig voordat sy direk na die polisiekantoor gery het.
’n Onafhanklike getuie wat agter hul voertuig gery het, hetbevestigdat sy ’n vrou uitdie motor sien val het en die slagoffer met ’n gesnyde keel aangetref het
Polisie-sersante hetgetuigdat Appolis by die stasie aangekom hetvol bloed, ’n mes gehad het en erken het “ekhet my meisie gesteek” terwyl hy steekbewegings gedemonstreer het.
Appolis het later verantwoordelikheid
ontkenenbeweer dat Moodley Lotz weens romantiese jaloesie aangeval het terwyl hy bestuur het en dat hy probeer ingryp het.
Die hofhet egter bevind dat sy weergawe ontwykend en onwaarskynlik wasen weerspreek is deur alle fisieke bewyse en getuieverklarings. Die regterhet bepaal dat die vervolging se getuies geloofwaardig was en datAppolis se erkennings aan die polisie waarheidsgetrou was. Die hofhet totdie gevolgtrekking gekom dat Appolis Lotzdoelbewus aangeval endodelikewonde in ’n daad van huishoudelike geweldtoegedienhet.
Appolis is aan moord onder huishoudelikegeweld verswarende omstandighede skuldig bevind.
ActionSociety het die skuldigbevinding envonnis van Appolis tot22jaar direkte tronkstraf vir die wrede moord op Lotz, wat ’n matevan verantwoordbaarheid meebring langer as drie jaar nadatsyop 4Maart 2023 vermoor is, verwelkom
Kaylynn Palm, die hoof van Action Society se Aksiesentrum in die Wes-Kaap, het gesê die vonnisoplegging verteenwoordig ’n belangrike stap na geregtigheid ná ’n lang en pynlike proses. “Hierdie vonnis bevestig brutale geweld het werklike gevolge. Nadia het haar lewe in ’n afgryslikeaanval verloorenhaar familie moes jarevan hofverrigtingeverduur om hierdie punt tebereik. Hoewel geen vonnis kan herstel wat van hulle weggeneem is nie, isverantwoordingnoodsaaklik vir geregtigheid ombetekenis te hê.”
Palm het ook die verwoestende impak genoem wat die misdaad op die kinders wat aan die tragedie verbind is, gehad het.
“Die diepste tragedie is dat die grootste slagoffers van hierdie misdaad Nadia en Charles se kinders is. Hulle het effektief al twee ouers verloor as gevolg vanhierdie daad van geweld. Hierdie is die stilswye slagoffers watdie gevolge van hierdie misdaad vir die res van hul lewe sal dra.”
Strand-ma eerder gevier as betreur
JameyGordon
Uitdie diepsteduisternis van verliesskep Nicole Maartsefamilie ’n vonk van hoop.
Terwyl hulle worstel met die pynlike werklikheid dat die 36-jarigenabewering die slagoffer van geslagsgeweld geword het, weier hulle dat die vermeende misdaadhaar verhaal saldefinieer. In plaas daarvan kies hulle om die jong vroutevier watlewens methaarhartlike vriendelikheid en onvoorwaardelike behulpsaamheid aangeraak het.
Betuigingsvan medelyeen ondersteuning hetopsosialemediavir die familie vanNicoleMaart(36)van Strand ingestroom.
VirLizette Forbes (55) was verledeDinsdagoggend (17 Maart) aanvanklik net nog ’n gewonedag –totdat ’n enkeleklop aan die deur van haar huis in Strand allesverander het. Sy was net voor 09:00besig om haar agterkleinkind droog te maak en het beplan om na die plaaslike groothandelaar te gaan.“My 77-jarige ma het die deur oopgemaak en ’n vrou met ’n klein seuntjie vriendelik binnegenooi,”vertel Lizette.
Die besoeker was die ma van iemand wat Nicole geken het. Watas’ngewone beleefdheidsgesprek begin het,het egter gou ’n ondenkbare wending geneem.
“Syhet verduidelik dat daar ’n situasie was en dat mense nie vir Nicole konbykry nie. Ek het haar dadelik gevra: ‘Waar is Nicole?’,” vertel Lizette.
Toe kom die woorde wat elkeouer vrees
om te hoor –“Nicole is dood”. “Die skok was onbeskryflik,” sê Lizette eenvoudig. “Ek en my ma het albei in trane uitgebars.”
Volgens kol. Jacqui Johnson, bevelvoerder van die Strand-polisie, is ’n geregtelikedoodsondersoek ingestel nadat lede deur Helderberghospitaal in kennis gestel is van Maart se sterfte. Johnson het gesê Nicolehet ’n oop wond aan die linkerkant van die kopgehad. “Die saak word steeds ondersoek en niemand is nog aangekeer nie.”
Enigeen met inligting kandie ondersoekbeampteby021 785 9130 kontak
Lizette beskryf haar dogter as ’n vreedsame, vriendelikemens wat altyd’nhelpende hand na ander uitgereik het
“Sy sal veral onthou word vir haar hartverwarmende glimlag en dat sy altyd trots op haar voorkoms was,”sêsy. “Ons koester herinneringe van hoe Nicolesoms so opgewondesou raak datsysovinnig gepraat het dat haar voorstetandeuitval.” Nicole se ouma en dogter het haar Maandagaand (16 Maart) nog gesien kortvoordat sy van die huis af weg is. “Ons is diep hartseer oor hierdie verlies,” sê Lizette.
“Ons wil haar onthou vir die liefde wat sy gebring het,nie die beweerdemanier waarop sy van ons weggeneem is nie.” ’nBegrafnisdienswordvirSaterdag(28Maart) gereël.
Onsbloei almal dieselfde rooi bloed
Barend Williams
“Ek wil nie hê mense moet ons jammerkry nie, want aan dieeindevan die dag is ons almaldieselfde.”
Dit is die woordevan die 19-jarige Andrea October van Somerset-Wes, wat hierdiejaar ’n kragtige Facebook-inskrywing geskep hetwat op bewustheidsdag (Woensdag 25 Maart) metbewustheid vir serebraleverlamming ter ere van nasionale serebrale verlammingsgehelp het.
Volgensdie Wes-Kaapse Serebraleverlammingsvereniging verwysdie toestand na ’n groep neurologieseafwykings wat liggaamsbeweging en spierkoördinasie permanentbeïnvloed.
Dit word deurskade aan die ontwikkelende brein veroorsaak.
Andrea se boodskap op Sondag 1Maart was eenvoudig, dog aangrypend:“Ek loop dalk anders. Ek beweegdalkanders. Maarekleef dapper, het diep liefen droom net soos enigiemandanders.Serebrale verlamming is deel van my storie –nie my beperking nie.”
Oor dié inskrywing sê Andrea: “Ek voel asof ek aan die wêreld die eerste keer vertel hetwie en watek is.”
Die volgende dag was sy oorweldig deurdie positiewe reaksie,maar haar reis na hierdie punt van dapperheid was lank enuitdagend.
’NTRAUMATIESEBEGIN
Andrea se verhaal begin met’n mediese wonderwerk.
Haar pa, Etienne, verteldat haar ma by die Oudtshoorn-hospitaal baie lank in kraam was en Andrea uiteindelik doodgebore is.
Sy het ná mediese ingryping ná vier tot ses minute weerlewe getoon.
“Daarom sê ek sy is my engelkind en ek is so dankbaardat God haar aan ons teru het,” verteldie trotse
KINDERJAREVANISOLASIE
As kind het Andrea altyd soos die “vreemde” een gevoel.Terwyl kinders in diestraatgespeel het, kon sy nie by hulle aansluit nie omdat die toestand haar benebeïnvloedhet.
“Omdat ek nie methulle konspeel nie, heteknet by die hek gestaan en hulle dopgehou,” onthousy.
Skool wasaanvanklik moeilik. Sy het daagliks by Danie Ackermann Primêre Skool met afknouery en onbegrip te doen gehad. Onderwysers moes haar hand vashou wanneer sy in rye loop sodatsy nieomgestamp word nie.
Haar laaste jaar op laerskoolhet ’n groot operasie meegebring –’n4,5 uur langeprosedure waar dokters haarbene oopgesny, losgemaakensintetiese spiere ingeplant het.
HOËRSKOOLENHOOP
Gelukkighet Andrea suksesvol herstel Sywas die volgende jaar ’n leerder aan dieHoërskool Gordon en vir haar was ditbeter
Andreavertel die verandering was danksy die leerders se volwassenheid en haar pa, wat ’n onderwyser by die skool was. Sy het moeilike vrae metdonkerhu-
morhanteer: “Ek sousêekhet as kind op my kopgeval en noubewe ek omdat ek bang is dit gaan weer gebeur.”
Maar onder die grappies hetsydie pynweggesteek. “Almal kyknajou as ’n gestremde. Hullesien jounie,” sê sy
“Die manier waaropmense in die openbaar na jou kyk, sit my af –dis amperasof hulle probeer om my bene reg te maak deur hulle daaraan te vergaap.”
TRAGEDIEENTRIOMF
Andrea se wêreld het in 2023 verander toe haar ma voor haar oorlede is.Dit het haar in depressie laat beland Verledejaar in matriek het’nboelievoorval haar verder geraak. “’nGraad-8seun het my gevrawat my ouers verkeerd gedoen het om my so te laatloop en dit het na ’n uitbarsting gelei,” vertel
Andrea Togwas dit ookinmatriekdat sy beheer oor haar verhaal geneem het. Terwylsyhaar toekoms beplanhet,het sy navorsing oor haar toestandgedoenen ontdek Suid-Afrika het ’n bewustheidsmaand in Maart.
“Ek het gesien die bewustheidsmaand is in Maart en my verjaarsdag is in dieselfde maand,”sêsy.
’NNUWESTEM
Vanjaar het sy die moed bymekaargeskraapomhaar Facebook-inskrywing te skep, met ’n foto van haar susterse 21ste verjaardagviering
Hoewel Andrea swaar metantidepressante behandel is, het sy haar matriekeksamengeslaag
Sy het gekies om nie vanjaarte studeer nie. Vir noufokussydaaropom bewustheid te skep en wil uiteindelik metkinders metgestremdhede werk
“Ek wil nie net bewustheid skepvir mensemet serebrale verlammingnie,
maar virallemense metgestremdhede,” sê sy
Metdie ondersteuning van haar familie–veral haar pa, wat sy as haar beste vriend beskou –isAndreagereed om die Helderberg te skud.
“Ekdinknie die Helderberg is gereed viralles wat ek beplan nie, maar inwoners salhulle maar gereed moet maak.” Haar uiteindelike doelwit? Datmense haar as Andreasien–’nspraaksame jong vrou met’ngroot liefde vir honde, wat graag in die kombuisagter die kospotte inskuif om haar familie se magiesvol te houendit geniet om haar groenvingers in dietuindie praat werk te laatdoen.
“Ekisdieselfdeasjy,” deel sy met trots aandie Helderberg-gemeenskap. “Ons bloei dieselfderooibloed!”
AndreaOctober deelhaar verhaal oor serebrale verlamming, waardeur sy ander menseinspireer. Foto’s:BarendWilliams
Andrea October saam met haar pa,Etienne,wie sy haar bestevriend noem.
Ervare polisielede groet Strand-span
BarendWilliams
Die Strand-polisiekantoor “verloor” volgende week meer as ’n eeu se ervaring op een slag wanneer driebeamptes met altesaam 105 jaar se diensaftree.
Kapt. Vanessa Daniels, kapt.Frankydu Plessis en AO DeonKlaasentree volgende Dinsdag(31 Maart) vir verskillende redes af, maar die gelyktydige verlies van hul ervaring sal gevoel word.
Hul stories begin op verskillende plekke, maar eindigalmal by Strand.
Daniels,wat oorspronklik vanKariega (voorheen Uitenhage) is, het in 1999 by diepolisiediens aangesluitnadat sy haar opleiding by die Bishop Lavis-polisiekollege voltooi het. Sy het aanvanklik by haar tuisdorp se polisiekantoor gewerk voordat liefde haarnadie Helderberg gebring het Nadat sy en haarman, Quinton, getroud is –hulle het by die kollege ontmoet –issy eers by Macassar geplaas. Later hetsyvir ’n tyd by Gordonsbaai gewerk voordat sy in 2005byStrand begin het, waar sy ’n 21 jaar lange verhouding met die gemeenskap opgebouhet.
By Strand hetDaniels in misdaadintelligensie gewerk, wat sy as die enjin vandie polisiekantoor beskryf.
Die laaste twee jaarhet sy ook as die waarnemende hoofvan die sigbarepolisiëringseenheid gedien.
“Sommige mense is bang –hulle wil niks andersdoen as wat in hul posbeskrywing is nie. Maar ek het gevindwaar hullejou ook al nodig het, moet jy gaan,want dit verbreedjou kennis,” sê Daniels.
Ná 36 jaar voel sy dit is tydomhaar uniform op te hang. “Die Here het my gehelp om al my doelwitte te bereik en ek voel ek moet tyd vir myself maak en rus.” Hoewel Danielsvoel sy het alles in die polisie bereik, hetDuPlessis anderplanne vir haaraftrede. Sy gaan voortgaan om met syferstewerk –soos wat sy die afge-
lope 36jaar in die polisiediens se finansiële afdelinggedoenhet.
Du Plessis, wat van Modimolle (voorheen Nylstroom) in Limpopo kom, het aanvanklik gehoop om by die kinderbeskermingseenheid te werk. Maartoe sy by die Tshwane-polisiekollege was, is sy na finansies getrek.
“Toe ek begin het, was dit ’n groot uitdagingvir my, wantekwas nie so goed metwiskunde nie, maar toebeland ek in finansies,” vertel Du Plessis met ’n glimlag Alhoeweldit nie haar eerste keuse was nie, het sy vir 35 jaar haar allesgegee. Voordat sy in 2023 by Strand beginhet, was sy die waarnemende hoof van finansies vir die Khayelitsha-subdistrik.
“Dis vir my ongelooflik lekker om met my lede tewerk en te sien wanneer hulle tevrede is as hulle hul salaris kry.”
Anders assytwee kollegas, wat die Helderberg ashul aangenome tuiste beskou, is Klaasen’nware plaaslikeseun. Hy is in Somerset-Wes gebore en getoëenhet die Khayelitsha-subdistrik sy hele loopbaan lank gedien.
Ná sy tyd in die vloot het hy sy opleiding by die Bishop Lavis-polisiekollege in 1999 voltooi. “Ná die vloot het ek besluit om by die polisie aan te sluit omdat ek liefisvir die gemeenskap,”verduidelik Klaasen.
Hy issedert 2017 by Strand, waar hy as speurder gedien het. Ná 36 jaar vangemeenskapsveiligheid het sy liggaam egter vir homgesê dis genoeg.
Die trio sê hulle salhul medebeamptes byStranddie meeste mis. “Vir my 21 jaar hier kaneksêons lede is baie lief vir mekaar,” sê Daniels.
Du Plessis het woorde van bemoediging vir die lede wat agterbly: “Bly positiefen moenie opgee as dinge nie vir jouuitwerk nie.”
Klaasen, as die plaaslike seun, vra dat sy gemeenskap saam metdie polisie werk. “As dit gebeur, sal dinge vir almalbeter uitwerk.”
Kapt.VanessaDaniels, kapt.Frankydu Plessis en AO Deon Klaasenwaai totsiens aan die Strand-polisiekantoor nadat hulle altesaam 105 jaarsepolisie-ondervinding bygedrahet Foto:Barend Williams
Allaboardthe titledeeds bus
The dream of legal homeownership became reality forseveralMacassar families as the City of CapeTown’sHuman SettlementsDirectorate broughtits
“Title Deeds Express”bus to the area.
Themobile office, designed to cut throughred tape andbring government services directly to residents’ doorsteps, marksasignificant milestone in the City’s mission to provide security of tenure to long-term beneficiaries.
Since launching the service,the City has successfully handed over more than520 title deeds.
For many in Macassar, the office’s arrival represents the end of alongwait forlegal recognition.According to officials, atitle deed serves as both legal document and economic empowerment tool
“Titledeeds represent far more than property ownership alone,” said Carl Pophaim, Mayoral Committee memberfor Human Settlements. “Theyprovide families with security, dignity and avaluable asset for generations.”
Pophaimexplained that receiving atitle deedgives beneficiaries full legal ownership of their home and accompanying peaceofmind.
He emphasised that the Cityremains “on the ground”and committed to unlocking homeownership opportunities.
TheHuman Settlements bus is scheduled to visit allareas in coming months. The City is calling on residents in older housing developments who have not yet received their deeds to comeforward when
thebus arrives in their neighbourhood.
To ensuresmoothhandover, residents must take along correct documentation –such asidentity documents and proof of address for standard verification; both spouses’ IDs and marriage certificatefor marriedcouples; death certificate andthe deceased’s ID for deceased spouses; parents’ deathand marriagecertificates; their IDs; andaletterofExecutorship or letter of authorityfor inherited properties–asthe Citycannot legally transfer deeds without these specific documents.
The City addedthathousing services are free and residents should neverpay anyoneclaiming to “speed up” the title deed process. Anyone requestingpayment for these services should be reportedtothe Human Settlements Centre on 021 444 0333.
Forquestionsabouttitledeedsormobilebus schedules,callthecentreon0214440333orvisit yournearestCityhousingoffice
Update on councilprojects
OverR4,7 billionininfrastructure investment is transforming the Helderberg as part of an ambitious “future-proofing” programme targeting ageing sewer networks, wastewater capacity constraintsand flood risks threatening the region.
In arecent onlinepublic meeting, the City of Cape Town’sWater and Sanitation Directorate shared acomprehensiveprogress report with residents.
Zahid Badroodien, Mayoral Committee memberfor Water andSanitation, emphasised that these investments are about more thanjust pipes and concrete, but also aboutlong-term reliability.
“Across Strand andthe broader Helderberg, several multi-million-rand sewer, wastewater treatment and flood alleviation infrastructure projects are under way," said Badroodien.
The centrepiece of the local sewer rehabilitationisthe R190 million Trappies Bulk Sewer project. This critical initiativeseeks to extend the life of a50-year-oldpipeline by another half-century.
Currently, 530 mofthe 2300-m pipeline hasbeen rehabilitated, with completion targeted for November next year.
In Strand, R23,6 million is being invested in four distinct projects to replace over 9000 mofpiping across majorresidential streets, including Joubert, Brand and Munnik streets.
At Gordon’s Bay Pump Station, the R277,3 million project is now 80% complete. It is designed to divert flow from theTrappies system to the Sir Lowry’s Pass Outfall Sewer, with commissioning expected this June.
The City also addressed recent sewer collapses in Joubert Street, confirming that repairs at multiple sites (including numbers 22, 32 and78) have successfully been completed.
Thelargest single investment highlighted was the Macassar Wastewater
Progress continuesonthe Trappies BulkSewer Rehabilitation Project in Strand, wheresections of the ageing 900mmsewer pipeline arebeing structurally linedtoextendits lifespan by morethan 50 years and preventfuturecollapses.
Treatment Worksupgrade. Witha price tagofR4,7 billion, this project representsa decade-long commitment to growth
Once completed in 2031, thefacility’s capacitywill more than double –jumping from 34 million litres per dayto80million litres per day.Civil construction began latelast year, and once operational,the facilitywill use advanced UV and chlorine disinfection to improve thequality of water discharged into theEersteRiver.
The R44,5 million Lourens River upgrade is 91% complete, focusing on gabionreinforced levees and flood plain enhancementsinVictoria Park, withcompletion set for 1August
Meanwhile, themore extensive R336,2 million Sir Lowrys Pass River project,is 70% complete. It is designed to contain one-in-100-year floods, effectively unlocking land for future development while protecting theenvironment Cityofficials reminded residents that they play avital role in daily maintenance. Foreign objectssuch as rags and stones remain theprimary cause of system blockages.
ToreportwaterandsewerissuesWhatsApp 0600181505,SMS31373,call0860103089or emailwater@capetown.gov.za
CityofCape Town Human Settlements official Naomi Kerchhoff with Macassar title-deed beneficiary JamimaCyster.
NPO turns funwalk into lifesaver
Check Know Prevent, an NPO dedicated to breasthealth education and early detection, transformed acommunity fun walkhosted on Human Rights Day in Lwandleinto alife-saving medical hub on Saturday (21 March)
Taking healthcare out of sterile clinics and into the vibrant energy of acommunity event wasadeliberate strategy to break down barriers to access
Pauline Basera, the organisation’s community development lead, said removing physical and psychological barriers is crucial to encouraging participation.
“Taking healthcare into acommunity settingmakes health approachable, accessible and less intimidating than a clinical environment,” Basera explained.
“People are more open, more relaxed and more willing to engage.”
The strategy is clearly working. During the Lwandle activation, the team conducted 68 breast screenings, with five women identified as requiring urgent medical follow-up.
For many in the community, the biggest obstacle to health isn’t just alack of clinics– it’s lackofaccurate information.
Jenny de Oliveira, founderof Check Know Prevent, noted that fear and misinformation often prevent women from seeking help until it’s too late
“Many believe breast cancer onlyaffectsolder women, or that if there’s no pain, there’s no problem –both dangerous misconceptions,” De Oliveira explained.
“Fear alsoplays abig role, with many women avoiding checks altogether.Through education, we replace fear with understandingand confidence.”
The organisation is also expandingthe conversationto include cervical cancer, which remainsone of the most silent, yetaggressivecancers in local communities.
Acheck-up withCheck Know Preventisn’t justaclinical exam –it’saneducationallesson conducted insafe, respectful andsupportive environments, wherewomen learntotake ownershipoftheir own bodies.
Keyeducationalpillars include starting earlybyencouragingyoung women to begin self-checks from age, maintainingconsistency through monthly checks specifically after menstruation, and developing symptomrecognitionskills by guiding individualsonexactly what to lookand feel for.
“Thesebasicchecks are often the starting point of amuch bigger health journey,” said De Oliveira.
“Earlydetection notonly saveslives, butalsoreducesthe emotional andfinancial burden onfamilies andour already overburdenedhealthcare system.”
Stakeholders,includingrepresentativesoftheCityofCapeTown,Khethani,Grace4Grace,714ZerobixandCheckKnowPreventvolunteers.
Forthe fivewomenreferred forfurther investigation, the journey doesn’tend at the screening tent. Check Know Prevent provides aroadmapfor nextsteps, guiding individuals throughreferrals to clinics or hospitals.
“If anythingconcerning is identified,weguide individuals with care andsupport,” Basera added. “No-oneisleft to navigate this alone.”
Theorganisation’s work is fuelled by community parti-
cipation andcorporate social responsibility. Check Know Prevent extended gratitude to corporate sponsorsVirtual Resourceand Lagoona, whose support makes these activations possible.
TheCommunity Fun Walk washostedbyWard 86 councillor,Xolani Diniso.“Iwould liketothank the organisersof the event for making our5th Annual event asuccess, andto the people of Strandfor showing up in support.” he noted.
JennydeOliveira, FounderofCheck Know Prevent(left),with Paulina Basera, the NPO’scommunitydevelopment lead
Howcanyonchose SW hiker
EsméErasmus
What makes one going down the feared steep descent of the Fish River Canyon hiking trail in thevast chasmNamibia a total of 31 times?
For Eric McLaren fromSomerset West,acertified adventure guidespecialising in the Fish River Canyon,itall started12 years ago in 2014 whenhewas invited along by his late friendColin to jointheir group.
“The Fish River is widely regarded as one of the continent’s premier hiking challenges,” he said. “Spanning about 72 km over fivedays, it demands physical preparation, logistical planning and careful risk management It was my first multi-day hike. I knewfrom the outsetitwould be aserious undertaking, but also an adventure too significantto turn down.”
One hike led to another,then another, andbefore he knew it he had completed it 31 times, most of it as aguide taking down groups.
“It’s difficult to put into words,” he said. “The canyon has away of drawing you back; each descent feels familiar,yet never the same. Once it getsunder one’s skin, that’s it! You don’t really decide to go back, but simply find yourself returning.”
NEVERJUSTONEMOMENT
Whenthe legendinFish River Canyon circles talks about the experience of the hike,, one feels the
urge to putonyourhiking boots and join the adventure.
Asked about highlights over thepast 12 years, McLarensaid it was never just one moment.
“The whole adventure is the highlight.Itisthe combination of peopleand place. The groups I guide are always special, but so are thehikers onemeets along theway. There’s something about thecanyon thatstrips things back; everyone is there for the same reason:to walk, test themselves and experience something real
“Youbecomeaware of what youtruly need, physically and mentally. That awareness stays with you longafteryou climb out.”
The terrain itselfisconstantly changing, McLarenadded, from rockydescentsand river crossingstowide open stretches and narrow sections. “Notwo hikes ever feel thesame. The light, heat, pace of the groupall shift.
“But if Ihad to narrow it down, it’s the calibre of people the canyon attracts. Genuine, grounded individuals who are willingto step out of theircomfort zone andembracethe challenge. That shared purposecreates something quitespecial.”
HARDESTPART
Whatisthe hardest part? For most hikers it’s theinitialdescent andthe first day andahalf in the canyon, he related.
“That section includes the narrowstretch known as the
Boulder Field. Here progress is slow anddeliberate. You’re constantly climbing over, around and between largeboulders, which demands balance, focus and steady foot placement, especially with a full pack.
“The heatadds another layer of difficulty. Many of the boulders are dark and on hotdays they absorb andradiateheat, significantly increasing the temperature at ground level. Combined with the physical effort of the terrain, this canmakethe first stretch demanding. Once hikers move beyondthis section, the canyon opens up, the walking becomes more rhythmic and most people find they settle into their stride.”
PREPMAKESORBREAKS
Preparationiskey, McLaren noted. “A few hikers underestimated what the canyondemands, which made it tough for them, andfrustrating for those who had prepared properly.”
That experience sharpened his approach, andnow he is more clearabout the required fitness levels and realistic pack weights before anyone commits. “Fortunately, I’ve never had amajor incident,”hepointed out.
Overthe years, he hasmet people with countless questions about the booking process, what to pack, where to camp andwhat to expect, but there was no real guide with all the answers.
This led to him write his recently released guide book Thirty Times Down:AHiker’sGuide to
the Fish River CanyonTrail – a 128-page practical and narrative book and companion to one of Africa’smost demanding multiday hikes.
“My hope is that this book will do exactly that.Since that first adventure in 2014, I’venow hiked the canyon 31 times. Iknow that oneday,I’llhavetohang up my boots and stop guiding groups, andthat’s really what inspired this book. It’s my way of giving something back to everyone who’ll still hikeitinfuture.
“I’ve put together adistance matrix chart for thetrail that I have found useful. It covers 27 key points of interest, including campsites, landmarksand shaded trees, small but important spots you really appreciateduring the day.”
McLaren’s book focuses on what hikers need to know before stepping ontothe canyon floor –from pack weight and pacing to food strategy,terrain realities and day-by-day planning. “The book draws on my experience leading 30 expeditions through theFish River Canyon and offers apractical, experience-based perspective on oneofAfrica’s most demanding multi-day hikes.
“Blending detailed route planning with field-tested insight, it’s positioned as aworking companion for serious hikers rather than atraditional travel memoir.”
Thetarget readership includes backpackers, hikers and outdoor enthusiasts witha solid base fitness level who are consider-
EricMcLaren with his guide book Thirty TimesDown: AHiker’s Guidetothe Fish RiverCanyonTrail
ing theFish River Canyon trail, as well as past hikers who may recognise their ownexperiences in its pages, McLaren said
DETAILEDHIKEPLANNER
At thecentre of thebook is a detailed hikeplanner that breaks down each stage of theroute, offering practical timing guidance and insight into terrain changes. Rather than presenting thecanyon as adramatic backdrop alone, McLaren examines thesmall decisions that shape asuccessful trek: how much water to carry between points; how to manage blisters before they escalate; and how group dynamics shift over five days of sustained effort. The book can be ordered from McLaren directly or is available at CityRock in Cape Town, Johannesburg and Pretoria, and online at www.argaiters.co.za or www.sat4rent.co.za.
ContactMcLarenon0836271563or info@capetownhikes.co.za
WindevisitsMacassar
On Friday 13 March, Rheinmetall Denel Munition (RDM) was honoured to host Western Cape premier, Alan Winde, at the RDM Macassar CommunityCentre
The visit enabled Winde to observe first hand how the centre assists local community members in accessing employment opportunities and practical support during these challenging economic times.
The engagement also provided RDM’s newly appointed chief executive,Maximilian Froch, withanopportunity to meetthe premier formally and present an overview of the company’s operations and community initiatives.
South Africa continues to face considerable unemployment challenges.
The RDM Macassar Community Centre plays acrucial role in this endeavour by providing aspace where the community can access information, support and opportunities irrespective of theirprofessional background. Throughcollaboration with local partners and government pro-
grammes, the centrehelps create pathways for individuals actively seeking employment
Recently, the RDMMacassar CommunityCentre launched acredit-bearing programme designed to assist community members in achieving NQF Level 4qualificationsand beyond.
During his visit, Winde encouragedthe RDM teamtouse the provincial government’s career portal toidentify additional employment opportunities for locals.
He also recommended engaging coordinators from theWestern Cape government’seCentres programme to exchange insights and strengthen collaboration.
In aneconomywhere many seek employment, initiatives that unite organisationsaround a shared purpose can effect tangible changeinaddressingpoverty.
Winde concludedhis visit with acompellingreminderofemployment’s importance: “Nothing stopsabullet likea job. Nothing putsfood on the tablelike ajob. Andnothinggivesdignity like a job.”
Polisie loop deur oor hul glonie optree
BarendWilliams
“Wat moetons doen?”
Dít wasnabewering ’n polisiebeampte se reaksie toe ’n Casablanca-inwoner homgevra het om in te gryp tydens’nnoodlottige bendesteekvoorval in die gebied voorverlede naweek.
“Hulle [die polisie]verwag ons moet onslewe op die spelplaas, maar wil nie hullewe in gevaar stel nie,”sê’nviesinwoner.
Die voorval hetom23:55 op Vrydag 13 Maart in Casablanca plaasgevind. Volgenskol. JacquiJohnson,die Strand-polisie se bevelvoerder, hetdie skote tydens die voorval geklap en drie mense is gesteek(“Drie met messe gesteek”, DistriksPos& Helderberg Gazette,18Maart).
’n Man is noodlottig gewond terwyl nogtweemansna’n nabygeleëhospitaal vervoer is. Hulle was tussen20en25jaar oud.
’n Sewentienjarige en ’n 23-jarige verdagte is in hegtenis geneemenvan moord aangekla, sowel as twee voorvalle van poging totmoord en ernstige aanranding.
Albeiverdagtes hetMaandag 16 Maart vir in die Strand-landdroshof verskyn
Volgens die inwoner het die voorval tussen twee bendegroepe uitgebreek wat mekaar op die hoek van Cassies-pad en O’Connell-rylaan met messe aangeval het. Polisievoertuie het glo opgedaag, maar op die hoek bly staan terwyl die chaos in O’Connell-rylaan voortgegaan het.
Die inwonersê’nvoertuig se ligte het so skerp in sy erf geskyn dat dit hom verblind het.
“Toe ek die beampte in die voertuig vra hoekom hy dit doen en of hy nie die chaos moet keer nie, het hy vir my gesê ‘wat moet ons doen’?”vertel die inwoner.
Hy was verder geskok toe die beamptes na bewering kinders gevra het om leë patroondoppies op te tel nadat die openbare orde-eenheid die bendes met traanrook en rubberkoeëls uiteen probeerjaag het.
“Die polisie het niks gedoen nie. Hulle het misluk om die gemeenskap te beskermenhul mandaat laat vaar,” beklemtoon die inwoner.
Hy beweer al wat hulle in Casablanca agtergelaat het, was beskadigde eiendom.
Johnson sê sy kan nie op die bewerings kommetaar lewer nie en voegbydat geen klagte teen beamptes aangemeld is nie.
Sy het die inwoner
aangemoedig om ’n klagte aan te meld. Sy het wel bevestig dat die saak amptelik as bendeverwant ondersoek word en óf die voorval uit ’n bendegeveg gespruit het. Johnson het verder gesê baie van die mense op die toneel was onder die invloed van drank. Volgens die skofbevelvoerder het ’n beampte kontak gemaak met die openbare orde-eenheid en aangrensende polisiekantore se personeel wat na die toneel ontbied is.
“Standaardprotokol vir beamptes is om die situasie te beoordeel en hulp te ontbied waar nodig,” sê Johnson. Sy doen ’n beroep op die gemeenskap van Casablanca: “Kom ons werk saam om misdaadaktiwiteite in ons gemeenskap uit te roei.”
Terwyl die gemeenskap en polisie beskuldigings heen en weer slinger, is ’n ma in rou gedompel.
DistrikPos en Helderberg Gazette het na die slagoffer se ma uitgereik, maar sy het verkies om nie kommentaar te lewer nie. Klagtesteenbeampteskandirek bydieplaaslikestasiebevelvoerder aangemeldwordofbypere-posby complaintsnodalpoint@saps.gov.za, opdieMySAPS-toepofskakel 0800333177.
Pictured (from left) areRDM CFOIngrid Stoltz, RDM CommunityCentrerepresentatives RelebogileDiphokoand Chris Janekke, Ward 109councillor PeterHelfrich, premier Alan Winde,Nandipha Mntambo (RDM)and Maximilian Froch (RDM CEO).
Doublenationalwin forRolaToyota
Rola Toyota Somerset West emerged as the standout performer at Toyota South Africa’sprestigiousannual Dealer of the Year awards, claiming an impressive array of accolades at the national ceremony earlier this month.
Toyota South Africa Motors (TSAM) recently celebrated 46 consecutive years of market leadership at their annual Dealer Network gathering, where automotive excellenceand innovation took centre stage at the Sandton ConventionCentre on Friday 6March. Amongall thedealerships nationwide,it was Rola Toyota SomersetWest that truly dominatedthe awards ceremony.
The dealership achieved an extraordinary sweep of awards. Their impressive haul included the coveted2025 Toyota Dealer of the Year Award andthe President’sAward (Large Category), alongside recognition as runner up for New Vehicle Sales and Automark in the Large Category. The dealership also received Certificates of Excellence for both Customer Service and Parts Sales.
This showcases thedealership’s exceptionalperformance acrosssales, service and customer satisfaction –arare achievement.Under theexpert guidance of dealerprincipal Andries de Villiers, RolaToyota Somerset West has established itself as abenchmarkfor excellence in the automotiveretail sector. Thesuccess of the SomersetWest operation reflects
the broader excellence within the Rola Motorsorganisation. Thiswas further highlighted when group MD Marius Claasen receivedthe President’s Award: Group MD Divisional, adding yetanotherprestigious accolade tothe RolaMotorsportfolio.
Claasen’s recognition tells a remarkable storyofgrowth and dedication inthe automotive industry. His guiding motto is: “Service is yourbest salesperson.”
Thiscustomer-centric approach has inspired his teams to
consistentlyexceed expectations anddeliver exceptionalcustomer experiences across the group.
Hisunwavering dedication andcommitment to service excellence hasbeen instrumental in growingRolaMotors to greater heights. Claasen’s forward-thinking leadership continues to drive investment into innovative initiatives that set the standard forwhatthe dealer of the future should be The dealership’s success stems fromtheir relentless pursuit of improvementacross
allareas of their business.From new vehicle sales andparts supplytocustomerservice andaftermarket solutions, their stateof-the-art facilityhas positioned them as apremier destination forToyota customers.
This comprehensiveexcellence reflects the brand’s commitment to quality andguest satisfaction at everytouchpoint
“Rola Toyota Somerset West hasbecome alandmarkof excellence in their region,” noted Toyota officialsduring the ceremony. “Their spirit of resil-
ience, innovation andcommunity cohesion mirrorsthe values thatToyota embodies.”
Themultipleawards in the Large Categorydemonstrate thatthe dealership competes successfully against the biggest andmostestablishedoperations in the country, making their achievements even more remarkable.
Theawards ceremony, themed “Challengeand Innovate,” brought togetherToyota’s extensive dealer networkfrom across South Africa. AndreKirby, TSAM president andCEO, emphasised the significance of these awards in recognising dealer networks whose operationalexcellence translates strategy into measurable growth andenduringcustomer trust.
“The Toyota Dealerofthe Year Awards areacornerstone on ourcalendar,” said Kirby. “The awards areaimedat recognising ourdealer network whose operational excellence andserviceinnovation translate strategy into measurable growth andenduringcustomer trust.”
TheSomerset West dealership’s achievementisparticularlynoteworthygiven the highly competitive nature of the automotive industry andToyota’s extensive national network. With their state-of-the-art facility andproventrack record of excellence across all operational areas,Rola Toyota Somerset West continues to strengthen the area’s automotive heritage while setting the standard for comprehensivecustomercare andoperational excellence
Rola Toyota SomersetWest wasone of thebig winners at theToyotaSouth Africa’s prestigious annualDealerofthe Year awards in Sandton, bagging severalaccolades at the nationalceremony. On stage(from left)Leon Theron (senior vice-president of Sales and Marketing at TSAM), dealer principal Andries de Villiers, Marius Claasen (RolaMotors group MD)and Andrew Kirby(president and CEOofTSAM).
SETTINGTHE BENCHMARK IN EXCELLENCE Rola Toyota Somerset West
Here’stocelebratingthe2025ToyotaDealeroftheYear,RolaToyotaSomerset West.Thisisawell-earnedanddeservedachievement,trulydeservingofthe recognition.Hatsofftotheentireteamfromgroundstafftoleadership,thank youforgivingityouralllastyear.Here’stoanotheryearofcontinuedexcellence.
Forallyourvehicleneeds,besuretovisitRolaToyota,20PacificClose, SomersetWest,7130,CapeTown.
Teachers gather forannual meet
Helderberg Sunrise Rotary Club hosted the annual Teachers’ Conference at Bundles of Joy Childcare Centre in Macassar on Saturday 14 March.
It aimed to support and uplift Foundation Phase teachers across the Helderberg.The eventwas opened with awelcome address by Gail Sykes, president of Helderberg Sunrise Rotary Club, after which master coach Renée Lighton delivered an impactful presentation entitled “Learn.
opportunity am sentative Ch focused cal im and lea and ers enti oppo re Rotary sio
Foundation-phaseteachers from acrossthe Helderbergengaged in an
Safety first at Altena PrimarySchool
Learners of Altena Primary School gainedvaluablelife-saving skills from snakehandlers, emergencyresponders and police dogs during aspecial Safety AwarenessDay on Thursday19March.AfriForum Helderberghostedthe event with support from localemergencyservices and securityorganisations, providing learners with hands-onsafetytraining acrossmultipledisciplines. ER24and FidelityADT Fire staff demonstrated essentialfire safety procedures,teaching the “stop,drop, androll” technique whilealso showing medical emergencyprocedures and explaining life-saving equipment to the children.Blackie Swart from BlackieSwart SnakeRelocation 24/7 sharedcrucial snakesafetytipswith learners, whiletrainers from theVetus ScholaK9Unit showcased their four-leggedpartners’ impressivecapabilities. Localpolice andmembersofthe Strand CommunityPolicing Forum supported the initiative, with Lieutenant-Colonel Noxolo PatienceRulwa,Strand’snewly appointed visible policing commander,addressing learners about reporting crimes, standing up to bullying and memorising emergencycontact numbers.
Musi
Helderberg have ty acclai the life loca Strand Cape award-winning Wednesday Apr abl com theatre tempting rol dau mana T tional and umph pea origi Dennill through landscape. spective showstoppers, to shifting roles. significant South nity. Ta gious
Diary|Dagboek
THURSDAY 26 MARCH
Somerset West: Harvest season at VERGELEGEN ESTATE is drawing to aclose,with earlyindications from the cellar pointing to excellent fruit qualityand balanced ripeness. To celebratethis timeofabundance, guests areinvited to jointhe winemaking team forarelaxed harvest sundowner from 17:00 to 20:00.The celebrationwilltake placeatthe estate’shilltop cellar,renowned for its 360˚views of thevineyardsand surrounding Helderbergand Hottentots Holland mountains. Guests willbegreeted with bubblyand canapés before enjoying adelicious harvest table, accompanied by live music. Limited tickets cost R950 per person; book at www.vergelegen.co.za.
SATURDAY 28 MARCH
Somerset West: Makethe most of the late-summer weather at the COUNTRY CRAFT MARKET at Southey’sVines from09:00 to 14:00. Thefamily-friendlymarket,renowned forthe very best in handcraft,art and clothing, offerseverything youcouldwant in atranquil outdoor market Wearyvisitors arewelcome to take abreak in the CountryKitchen, grab abitetoeat,coffee,tea or a craftbeer, and relaxinthe shade.Thereisplenty of safe parking and well-behaveddogsonleashes arewelcome.For moreinformation, call Lesley on 083590 9197orsend an email to info@countrycraftmarket.org
Somerset West: ST PAUL’S CATHOLIC CHURCH hosts its book sale from 09:00 to 12:00.With Easter approaching,the sale features aspecial selection of religious items andicons alongside arenowned collection of qualitybooks. Visitors canenjoydelicioustreats, teaorcoffee, and even gettheir carwashed whilebrowsing. Allproceeds support the church’s charity feeding programme.Cardpayments areaccepted forconvenience. To donate booksorfor further details, call Carole on 084 2999023.
MAANDAG 30 MAART
Strand: Die CHRISTELIKE AFHANKLIKHEIDSDIENS, of Christians Against Drugs(CAD),nooi mensewat probleme met middelafhanklikheid
hetnahul byeenkoms om 19:00indie kerksaal vandie NG kerk Strand Moedergemeente, op die hoek vanBirkenhead-enFaganstraat.Rig alle navraeaan Gerrie by 073336 3119 of Werner by 082826 0972
SATURDAY 4AND SUNDAY 5APRIL
Somerset West:Join LOURENSFORD WINE ESTATE forthe fun-filledKiddies’ Easter Hunt
Little adventurers willfollowamap,guiding them on aspecial trail,spotting hiddenbunniesand surprises along theway.Theywillgatherstickers or stampsontheir map and at theend of the journey, presentthe completed map at the tasting room whereadelightful goodiebag awaits. While the young ones explore, parentscan relaxand enjoythe estate’smanyofferings. Tickets,atR180 per child,can be bought online at https://lourensford.activitar.com/products.
Stellenbosch: MIDDELVLEI WINES holds its Easter Brunch and Easter EggHunt from 09:30 to 11:30 on Sunday5April, promising amorning of deliciousfarm-stylefood, laughter and Easter festivities and delight forall ages.Guestscan enjoy arelaxed farm-stylebrunch, featuring comforting favourites with aplayful Easter-inspired twist
Themenu includesegg and bacon roosterkoek andhot cross bun jaffles, creating adelicious blend of traditional Easter flavours and nostalgic farm cooking. Whileadults savour theirmealover aglass of Middelvlei wine (orBoeretrooscoffee), the morning’sfestivities willtrulycomealive for younger visitors at 10:00, whenalivelyEaster Egg Hunt will be held followed by thechancetopaint Easter eggsand even meeta bunnyortwo.The luckyboy or girl to find thegolden eggwillwin the chancetohosttheir next birthdaypartyatthe estate’s Barn venue.Pre-booking is recommended on 021 8832565 or info@middelvlei.co.za.
DINSDAG7APRIL
Strand: Die HELDERBERG SENIORKLUB kom by dieNGkerk Helderberg in Firmountwegbyeen Teeenverversingswordom09:00voorsien gevolg deur samesang en die program om 09:30 Die gasspreker ElkarienFourielewer ’n praatjie oor China.Haar boekoor China salteen R175 (kontant) beskikbaar wees.Ledebetaal R10en besoekers R20.Vir navrae,bel ApoloniaMaritz by 021 8537560 of 082507 7091.
UnionCastleline storyunpacked
Fordecades, Capetonians were greeted by afamiliar sight when enteringthe city– thedistinctive mauve andwhite linerswithred andblack funnelsofthe UnionCastle shipping company mooredinTable Bay.
Maritime educator, author andjournalist Brian Ingpen willexplore this iconic shipping line’s rich history when he addresses the U3A Helderbergatthe Dutch Reformed church at 82 Firmount Road in Somerset West on Wednesday 8 April at 10:00.
Ingpenbringsmore than 50 yearsof experience from the southwestern Cape’s shores andseas. Educated at South AfricanCollegeHigh School (SACS) andthe University of Cape Town, he served in the South African Navy andwith Safmarine before becoming ateacher and principal at two Peninsula schools He later joined the LawhillMaritime Centre in Simonstown, retiring in 2019.
Theaward-winning author will trace 120 years of the UnionCastleline andits predecessorcompanies, whichtransported mail, cargo andpassengers between GreatBritain, South Africa andEast Africa
Ships grew progressively largerover the decades, with the flagship Windsor Castle carrying more than 820 passengers andabout 16000 tons of cargo. Theline’s reputationfor punctualitymeant travellers could book withcertainty, while many localsenjoyed the popular 10-day coastal voyages.
However, the service faced mounting challenges from the 1950s. “Air travel began eroding the passenger ocean liner market,and Jumbojets’arrival in 1971 provided much quickerpassage between Britain andSA,” Ingpenexplains.
“Risingcrewsalaries andfuelcosts increasedoperating expenses, butcontainerisation deliveredthe finalblowby eliminating the highly-profitable freight revenue.”
Thelastpassenger mail ship departed the CapeinSeptember 1977, followedtwo weeks laterbythe finalmailservice, ending an erarenownedfor punctuality, tradition andon-boardelegance. Entryisfreefor members;visitor arerequired to payR20 at the door. Forenquiries, call DeniseFourieon072 211 1173
Brian Ingpen willbethe guest speaker at the U3A Helderberg’smonthlymeeting next month (April).
Winningseasonfor Macassar
Aftera powerhouseseasonfeaturing 11 wins and a totalof50points, the first team of Macassar Cricket Club (pictured) has officially earned promotion to the Western ProvinceCricketAssociation’sFirst Division C. Finishing second in ahighlycompetitive league,the team’sconsistency over18matches pavedthe wayfor this well-deservedstepupto highertierofthe union. Theirfocus nowshifts to the First Division DAma20 final at Newlands Cricket Ground, wheretheywillfaceMontroseCricketClub. Also in Ama20-final action this weekendisHelderbergCricketClub, who willlock horns with Bergvliet Cricket Club.
Fish stocks arein‘serious trouble!’
South Africa’scoastline supports oneofthe richest marine ecosystems in the world.
Forgenerations it hasfed coastal communities, supported livelihoods and createdadeeply rooted fishing culture. Yetmanyofthe fish species thatoncethrived along the Western Cape coast arenow severely depleted. In places like FalseBay,whereanglers once caught massivereeffish just metres from shore, the change has been dramatic. Overfishing, pollution, destructive fishing practices and habitat pressure have allcontributed to the decline.However,science, conservation and responsiblefishing practices offer hope forrecovery
Historical accounts from the earlyand mid-1900s describe FalseBay as one of themostproductivefishing areasalong the South African coast.The rockyreefs along the Cape Peninsula and the mountainous coastline were famous forlarge reef species
Fishermen regularlylanded black musselcracker (poenskop) exceeding 20 kg to 25 kg,and redsteenbras weighing over40kgwerecaught inshoreand offshore In some casesanglers reported catchingmultiplelarge reef fish in asingle day.
Todaythesecatches areextremelyrareornon-existent.When wasthe last time alarge poenskop,white musselcracker or whitesteenbras wascaughtalong the FalseBay coast?
atrue fisherman who values and respects the ocean, it is clear that in our shortlifetime, fishing has onlygone oneway:downhill. We do not catchthe same quantity or sizefish that ourfathers and grandfathers caught Not even close.
Humangreed neverceasestoamaze. Onceit’sall gone,that’swhen we want to start worrying; when it’s fartoo late.Several iconic South African fish species have suffered majordeclines due to decades of heavy
mercial netting and recreational fishing pressures along the Western Cape coastline
Kob (kabeljou) areone of the most popularediblefish species in South Africaand have experienced strong fishingpressureinbothcommercial and recreational sectors. Unfortunately, duskyand silverkob arenow in serious trouble.
Galjoen(South Africa’snational fish) depend heavilyonkelp forests and rockyreefs.Their seasonal closures help protect them during breeding periods.
Roman areslow-growing reef fishthatare vulnerable to overfishing becausetheystayclose to reefswhere theyare easilytargeted.
Whitemusselcracker wasonceabundant in Strand and surrounds,but is nowall but gone –onlyasmall handful of juvenilefish arecaught each year Fishing pressureisnot the only threatfacing fish populations.
FalseBay has also been affectedbypollution from urban run-off,sewageoutflows,plastic wasteand coastal development.Thesepollutants damage marine habitats and disrupt food chains that fish rely on.
Healthyoceans depend not onlyonresponsiblefishing butalsoonclean waterand functioning ecosystems. Thebuilding of the promenade and the visiblepollution running directlyintothe Strand reefsare prime exam-
ples of this impact
Thestories of massive poenskop and redsteenbras caught along the FalseBay coastline arepart of SA’s fishing heritage. Butifcurrent trends continue,those stories maybecome little morethan memories, if they haven’t already
Sustainable fishing practices, stronger conservation measures and continued scientific research offer apath forward. By protecting ourmarine ecosystems todaywe canensurethat futuregenerations willexperiencethe incrediblerichness of SA’s oceans.
Thefutureofour fisheries is not just ascientific issue; it is anational responsibilitythat everyangler, whether commercial or recreational, shouldtakeupon themselves before ourchildren have nothing left This maysound faroff,but believe me: afterfishing formorethan 35 years, Ican tell youfrompersonal experiencethat ourfish stocksare in trouble. Serious trouble!
If youwant to getinvolvedinfish tagging,sampling or citizen scienceprojects, visit @fishingrepublic or come and have achat with us. Fishing Republic is locatedat73Beach Road, Strand,Shop 6, HelderbergCentre. Formoreinformation, call 072552 4400 or email kegan@fishingrepublic.co.za.
Woensdag,25Maart 2026
OllaBoysreallyonsong
Apre-season club rugby derby
between All Saintsand Strand rugby clubs at Helderzicht Sports Ground this past weekend proved aclinical display of power and pace, as the home sidestarted theircampaign likeahouse onfire, dismantling their localrivals witha comprehensive 45-9 victory.
From the opening whistle on Saturday (21 March), the intentfrom AllSaints was unmistakable.Launching attack after attack, theypinned the visitors deep in theirown half, refusing to letthe Stranddefense catch its breath.
The foundation of the victory waslaid by the Olla Boys’massive forward pack. Boasting asignificant weightadvantage, they dominated the setpiecesand collisions throughoutthe afternoon.
Thisphysical supremacyprovidedthe perfect platform for the backlinetooperate with clinical speedand confidence.
Among thestandout performers in the engine room was veteran prop Jason
Latief. Showing thatage is but anumber, he powered his wayover the line to get hisname on the scoresheet, anchoring an impressiveteamperformance.
While the forwards provided the muscle, the backline provided the magic Robin Petersen wasthe undisputed star of the show, carving through the Stranddefense with acombinationof elite paceand superb vision.
Petersen crossed the whitewash twice, hisbraceoftries highlighting the gap betweenthe two sides on the day.
Themomentum didn’tfalter when the replacements came on,either. Nathan Jacobsmade asignificant impact off the bench, charging into the fray with severalstrongruns thatkept the Strand defendersonthe back foot.
Ensuring thatevery entry into the “red zone” was rewarded, Dylan Scholtz wasin fineform withthe boot. He was on songthroughout the match, slotting conversions andpenalties with ease to keepthe scoreboard ticking overand out of Strand’s reach.
Cole Afrika,playing forAll Saints, spots the gapand takesitinstyle. Photos:Peter Bee
JubilantAll SaintsRFC playerscelebrating one of their manytries in the pre-season friendly.
Scrumhalf forStrand Ethan Beckettdelivers quickand
