Jeftha en Micha Stoffels het die trane omtrent gisteroggend (Dinsdag 14 Januarie) by Dr. G.J. Joubert Primêre Skool in Strand gevloei toe hulle van hul ouers moes afskeid neem. Die meeste van dié twee se gr. 1-klasmaats was wel baie opgewonde om die opwindende nuwe hoofstuk van hul skoolloopbaan te betree. Die gr. 1-leerders het tesame met die gr. RR- en gr. 4-leerders reeds gister vir die nuwe akademiese jaar aangemeld – gereed om nuwe avonture aan te pak!
Foto: Barend J. Williams
The matric class of 2024 is receiving all-round praise for impressive results, which show an overall increased pass-rate across all provinces.
The Department of Basic Education announced the final National Senior Certificate (NSC) results for 2024 on Monday (13 January), showing a 4,4% increase in the overall national pass rate.
“I am proud to announce that in 2024, 615 429 learners passed the NSC examination, more than at any other
time in our history,” said Siviwe Gwarube, minister of Basic Education.
“South Africa’s national pass rate for the 2024 NSC has therefore increased from 82,9% in 2023 to 87,3%.”
According to Gwarube, 47,8% of candidates qualified for admission to bachelor studies, which is a significant improvement on last year’s 40,9% and represents the highest number of bachelor passes in recent history.
About 97% of learners enrolled for Grade 12 in 2024 ultimately wrote the NSC exams last year.
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Here is a list of the overall 2024 NSC and IEB pass rate of schools in the basin and Grabouw, with the 2023 pass in brackets:
. Curro Somerset West – 100% (100%)
. De Rust Futura Academy – 96,6% (98,6%)
. False Bay High – 100% (100%)
. Hoërskool Grabouw – 95,7% (92,2%)
. Generations School Somerset West – 100%
Hottentots-Holland High – 96,2% (93,9%) . Khanyolwethu High – 81% (80,2%)
Hoërskool Strand – 99,5% (97,4%) . Strand Secondary – 77,2% (68,3%) . Umyezo Wama Apile High – 79,1% (81,8%) . Zandvliet High – 88,7% (78,4%)
Barend J. Williams
’n Verwoestende brand het verlede Donderdag (9 Januarie) 20 strukture in die Deepfreeze-informele nedersetting in Macassar vernietig en 50 mense haweloos gelaat.
Volgens Jermaine Carelse, woordvoerder van die Stad Kaapstad se brandweer-enreddingsdienste, het hulle omstreeks 12:30 ’n noodoproep ontvang. Brandweerspanne van Strand, Somerset-Wes, Sir Lowry’s Pass en Lansdowne is ontbied om die brand in Reebweg te blus.
“Die brandbestryders het die vlamme teen 15:10 onder beheer gebring,” het Carelse gesê. Hy het ook bewerings van inwoners oor ’n vertraagde reaksietyd weerlê en verduidelik dat die SomersetWes-brandweer binne 14 minute ná die oproep op die toneel aangekom het.
Inwoners is steeds geskok oor die omvang van die skade.
Jaylin Malgaes (24) het beweer sy het die brand eerste raakgesien toe sy rook geruik het. “Ek het die vlamme in my pa se duiwehok gesien. Hy is steeds in skok oor die verlies,” het sy gesê.
Melinda Abrahams (55) was nie tuis toe die brand ontstaan het nie. Sy het vertel hoe sy met ’n oproep ingelig is dat haar huis aan die brand is. “Ek het dadelik alles gelos en huis
wat 50 mense in die informele nedersetting Deepfreeze, Macassar, haweloos gelaat het.
Foto: Barend J. Williams
toe gejaag. Ek kon gelukkig van my goed red, maar ander het alles verloor,” het sy gesê. Abrahams het ook die gemeenskap vir hul vinnige hulp geprys.
Daniel Engelbrecht, een van die inwoners wat gehelp het, het vertel hoe hy en ander saamgewerk het om soveel moontlik te red. “Ons het probeer om die vlamme in bedwang te hou tot die brandweer opgedaag het,” het hy gesê.
Intussen is die strate van Deepfreeze oorvol met meubels en ander goedere wat uit die vlamme gered is. Noodlenigingspogings is reeds aan die gang, met
Barend J. Williams
Met die amptelike heropening van skole vandag (Woensdag 15 Januarie) is die gemeenskap van Weltevreden in Strand diep bekommerd oor die gesondheid van leerders by Dr. G.J. Joubert Primêre Skool nadat ’n pyp agter die skool gebars het.
Die lek, wat in ’n deurloop tussen Naomi- en Abattoirstraat geleë is, het stagnante poele water veroorsaak wat met alge besmet is en ’n sterk, vieslike reuk soos dié van vis afgee. Die situasie word verder vererger deur stortings wat die omgewing besoedel.
Theodore America (58), ’n inwoner van Mydrechtstraat, het sy kommer oor die gesondheidsgevare wat sy kinders in die gesig staar uitgespreek.
ondersteuning wat van omliggende gebiede begin instroom het.
Pastoor André Wales, ’n gemeenskapsleier in Deepfreeze, het gesê hulle is oorweldig deur die hulp van ander. “Ons het kos en klere ontvang, maar het steeds ’n groot behoefte aan basiese benodigdhede, soos skoolklere vir die kinders,” het hy gesê. Gesinne wie se huise afgebrand het, word tydelik deur ander inwoners wat hul huise oopgestel het, gehuisves. V Wales het die gemeenskap aangemoedig om betrokke te raak en te help waar moontlik. Belangstellendes kan hom by 082 294 4314 kontak.
“Ek het twee kinders wat die skool bywoon en die deurloop gebruik. Wat gaan gebeur as hulle siek word?” het hy gevra.
Tauhira Fanie, die hoof van Dr. G.J. Joubert Primêr, het verduidelik dat leerders die deurloop gebruik om by die skool se hekke in Abattoirstraat te kom, aangesien die hekke in Naomistraat meestal om veiligheidsredes gesluit is.
“Die lek is reg voor ’n graad R-klas se deur, en die graad Rleerders speel langs die heining waar die vuil water opdam, omdat hul speelruimte so beperk is,” het sy gesê. Fanie het verder haar frustrasie uitgespreek: “Ek is geïrriteerd en kwaad dat mense kinders se lewe só in gevaar kan stel en niks daaraan doen nie.”
Volgens haar is die lek reeds deur die skool se opsigter by die Stad Kaapstad aangemeld. Die deurloop word egter nie net deur leerders gebruik nie –die hele gemeenskap gebruik hierdie pad as ’n kortpad tussen Naomi- en Abattoirstraat.
“Ek het van die kliniek af gekom en moes deur die vuil water en stink reuk loop,” het Claudette Carlese (44), ’n inwoner, gesê.
DistriksPos & Helderberg Gazette het die Stad Kaapstad vir kommentaar genader, maar geen reaksie is teen die tyd van publikasie ontvang nie. Die koerant sal dit opvolg en enige reaksie van die Stad asook verdere inligting publiseer. Intussen het die skool besluit om die hek in Naomistraat oop te los sodat leerders nie die deurloop hoef te gebruik om by die skool te kom terwyl die probleem nog nie opgelos is nie.
Yaseen Gaffar
A heated debate over the cleanliness of Cape Town’s iconic beaches, including those in Strand and Gordon’s Bay, has erupted between a citizen science group and the City of Cape Town.
The controversy centres on a report released by Project Blue, an independent research initiative, which revealed alarming levels of bacterial contamination at several popular swimming spots.
Project Blue’s findings, based on water samples collected between 4 November and 6 December 2024, indicated that numerous beaches exceeded safety limits for E.coli and Enterococci, bacteria commonly found in faecal matter.
“Exceedances were noted in 42% of the sample dates for the Table Bay side of the survey, while for the False Bay side the exceedances occurred for 38% of the sample dates,” the report stated.
These findings have raised
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serious concerns about public health.
This has a potential impact on the city’s thriving tourism industry.
The municipality has vehemently disputed Project Blue’s findings, maintaining
Individual results were released to learners yesterday (Tuesday 14 January), and schools around the Helderberg, including Somerset West, Strand and Macassar, showed significantly higher pass rates than the previous year.
Schools offering the Independent Examinations Board (IEB) curriculum achieved an overall pass rate of 98,47% in the 2024 examinations, the highest pass rate recorded in the past five years.
The top performing school in the Cape Winelands was Somerset College, boasts 4,2 distinctions per candidate. The school maintained its 100% bachelor’s degree pass rate.
Among the 98 candidates, 59 achieved an A aggregate, with eight learners attaining a 90% or higher average.
Somerset College students were awarded 40 Top 1% awards for featuring in the top 1% of their cohort nationally across various subjects.
Curro Somerset West obtained a 100% IEB pass rate with 100% tertiary exemption. Generations Schools Somerset West also obtained a 100% pass rate.
Somerset West Private School, whose candidates sat down for the IEB exams, for the first time in 2024, also achieved a 100% pass rate and flawless bachelor’s admission pass rate.
that its own rigorous testing, conducted by SANAS-accredited laboratories, consistently demonstrates safe water quality at all designated swimming areas.
“Of 297 water samples at designated swimming areas
across the City’s 30 most popular coastal recreational nodes, a full 100% were within recreational use thresholds over the festive season,” the City said in a statement.
It criticised Project Blue’s methodology, questioning the accreditation of the laboratories used for analysis and suggesting that the sampling locations are not representative.
“A significant portion of Project Blue’s limited sampling was at known chronically polluted locations at the Soet River Mouth in Strand and Lagoon Beach in Milnerton, which are, in fact, closed for recreational use,” the City stated.
Eddie Andrews, deputy mayor and Mayoral Committee member for Spatial Planning and Environment, added: “Where specific pollution incidents are identified, the City responds swiftly to address the pollution source, installs warning signage, and takes water samples until results show it’s safe to swim again.”
But Project Blue defended its
research, asserting that the laboratories employed for the Table Bay analysis, including AL Abbott, are indeed SANASaccredited for the specific testing conducted.
“AL Abbott, the laboratory used for Table Bay analysis, including Camps Bay and Clifton 4th Beach, is SANASaccredited for both E.coli and Enterococci in saline water,” said Caroline Marx on behalf of Project Blue.
Dave Bryant, DA Western Cape spokesperson on Local Government and Environmental Affairs, demanded a public apology from Project Blue.
“The claims made by Project Blue have not only caused unnecessary alarm among residents and visitors, but have also threatened Cape Town’s reputation as a world-class coastal destination,” he said.
“The potential negative impact on tourism-related businesses, which are vital to the local economy and support thousands of livelihoods, cannot be understated.”
Yaseen Gaffar
A tragic drowning occurred at Strand Beach last Wednesday afternoon (8 January), marking the third such incident at Strand Beach over the festive season.
In the latest, a 17-year-old teenager from Khayelitsha was reported missing in the waters opposite the Topaz apartment building around 14:30.
An extensive search-and-rescue effort was launched, involving multiple agencies including NSRI Gordons Bay, City of Cape Town lifeguards and emergency medical services, the Metro Rescue Drone Unit, Police Water Policing and Diving Services and local police.
Dozens of beachgoers gathered around the scene as family members of the teenager looked on, hoping the child would be found.
Eventually, about two hours later, the teenager’s body was found in shallow waters and he was declared deceased.
“The body of the teenager was taken into the care of police and provincial government’s Health Forensic Pathology Services,” the NSRI confirmed in a statement.
“Police have opened an inquest docket.”
Just two weeks ago, on Saturday 28 December, a nine-year-old boy from
Blue Downs drowned at Strand Beach, near the Lourens River.
According to Warrant Officer Nico Beukes, spokesperson for Strand police, an inquest docket was also opened. The exact details of the incident are not known.
The first drowning incident of the festive season occurred on Tuesday 10 December, when a 62-year-old man, an avid surfer from Grabouw lost his life at Strand Beach. (“Drowning at Strand Beach”, DistrictMail & Helderberg
Gazette, 11 December 2024).
Beachgoers are again advised to swim only between the lifeguard flags, as rip currents are very dangerous and prominent at certain parts of Strand Beach.
) Die Strand-polisie ondersoek ’n saak van poging tot moord nadat daar glo Saterdag (11 Januarie) in Veronicastraat, Sercorpark, op ’n 30-jarige man geskiet is. Polisiebeamptes het omstreeks 23:05 op ’n noodoproep gereageer en is op die toneel deur die slagoffer ingelig dat hy en ’n vriend in die straat gestaan het, toe ’n Toyota Etios voor hulle stilhou. Die bestuurder van die voertuig het glo uitgeklim en het ’n vuurwapen op hulle gerig en op hulle geskiet voor hy in die voertuig van die toneel gevlug het. Niemand is in die voorval beseer nie. Die polisie ondersoek tans alle moontlike leidrade en het nog geen verdagtes in hegtenis geneem nie.
) Die Wes-Kaapse-polisie se provinsiale span vir ernstige en geweldsmisdade ondersoek ’n rooftog wat verlede Maandagoggend (6 Januarie) by ’n winkel op die R102 in Croydon plaasgevind het. Volgens die klaer was hy omstreeks 01:35 besig om die winkel, op dieselfde perseel as ’n bekende vulstasie, skoon te maak toe sewe mans binnekom. Een van die mans was met ’n vuurwapen gewapen en hy en sy medepligtiges het geld en sigarette geëis. Die rowers het met ’n onbekende bedrag geld gevlug. Die voorval is by die Macassar-polisie aangemeld en is daarna aan die provinsiale eenheid vir verdere ondersoek oorgedra.
) Die Macassar-polisie is op soek na twee rowers nadat ’n koerier-wa met meubels en huishoudelike toebehore verlede Maandag (6 Januarie) langs Hoofweg in Firgrove gebuit is. Volgens die polisie het die bestuurder langs die pad gestop om sy volgende bestemming te
bevestig, toe ’n wit Toyota Hilux-bakkie langs die pad stilgehou het. Twee mans – een met ’n vuurwapen – het glo uit die bakkie geklim, die wa gekaap en die bestuurder na Khayelitsha ontvoer, waar hy afgelaai is. Die polisie versoek enigeen met inligting oor die voorval om die Macassar-polisie by 021 857 7100 te kontak.
) ’n Spaza-winkeleienaar is erg getraumatiseer na vermeende Donderdag 2 Januarie rowers tydens ’n rooftog van sy winkel in Sheik Yusuf-weg, Macassar, op hom losgebrand het. Volgens die Macassar-polisie het ’n wit Toyota Corolla omstreeks 14:20 voor die winkel gestop en drie mans het uitgeklim. Een van die mans het ’n vuurwapen uitgehaal en geld by die 20jarige Somaliese winkelier geëis. Toe hy weier om die geld te oorhandig, het die verdagtes glo op hom geskiet. Die Macassar-polisie ondersoek ’n saak van sakeroof en versoek enigeen met inligting om die kantoor dringend by 021 857 7100 te kontak.
) ’n Nuwejaarsuitstappie het in tragedie geëindig nadat ’n ongeluk die lewe van ’n 39jarige vrou geëis het. Volgens die Macassarpolisie was die oorledene een van 28 insittendes in ’n oorlaaide taxi onderweg na Strand. Naby die vulstasie op die N2, in die rigting van Somerset-Wes, het een van die voertuig se bande glo om 12:05 gebars en die bestuurder het beheer oor die voertuig verloor, wat die noodlottige ongeluk veroorsaak het. Geen ander voertuie is in die voorval betrokke nie. Die 24-jarige taxibestuurder, wat sonder ’n geldige rybewys bestuur het, is in hegtenis geneem.
Tasmin Cupido
A spate of reported burglaries and thefts in and around the Raithby area since last November has led to Somerset West police boosting their crime-prevention measures in the policing precinct.
A total of six cases of robbery are currently under investigation, all occurring between Saturday 30 November and last Tuesday (7 January). No arrests have been made in any of the cases.
According to Lieutenant-Colonel JP du Toit, acting commander of Somerset West Police Station, the incidents occurred mostly late at night and in the early hours. The perpetrators use various modus operandi and some of the victims were attacked and injured.
In the most recent incident reported to Somerset West police several items were stolen from a business in Cordoba Street.
“On Tuesday 7 January, at 23:50, the complainant saw the window of the business was broken,” Du Toit related. “Computer equipment, wallets and cash were taken. A burglary business is under investigation.”
and we insist that the government and the judicial system fulfil their constitutional duties to protect everyone in our society,” said Jannie Strydom, CEO of Agri Western Cape. “The time for words is over – it is now time for decisive action.”
This incident was preceded by an incident in Bredell Road at 01:00 on Saturday 4 January. Du Toit said the complainant found two unknown suspects inside his house, after they had gained entry by forcing open a window. “Items such as a wallet and laptops were taken,” he said. “The suspects pepper-sprayed the complainant before fleeing. A house robbery is under investigation.”
The previous day (3 January), a housebreaking and theft was reported in Annandale Road at 00:04, with the complainant returning to her home to find her bedroom window forced open and several items stolen, Du Toit said. In another incident, which occurred just after midnight on New Year’s Day, five suspects dressed as policemen apparently targeted a home in the Raithby area. “The complainant heard dogs barking and upon investigation noticed three African men dressed in police uniform,” Du Toit explained.
Two days later (Thursday 9 January) a couple was allegedly attacked in their home on a farm near Eikendal Road, around 04:00. Stellenbosch police reacted to the emergency call and said two men had attacked the husband and wife while they were asleep in their home on a farm along the R44. The suspects’ faces were hidden, said Stellenbosch police spokesperson Lieutenant-Colonel René Matthee.
Kurt Maske, a security consultant and paramedic who treated the victims on the scene, said the woman managed to escape and call for help outside. “Both victims were injured in the attack; the woman, who sustained a gash to the head, managed to flee and call for help to family members living in another house on the property.”
The suspects made off with jewellery, cellphones, laptops and a television set. Matthee confirmed both victims were injured in the incident and hospitalised, the husband sustaining serious injuries.
Matthee confirmed a case of robbery is under investigation by Stellenbosch police.
Following the attack, Agri Western Cape issued a statement to express its shock at the incident and called on authorities to increase police visibility, bring effective prosecution of perpetrators about and join forces with the affected communities in crime prevention.
“Agri Western Cape will continue to be a voice for our agricultural community,
“The men forced open the door and tied up the complainant, who saw two more men entering his house. The suspects tied up the rest of the complainant’s family members and put them all in one room. The suspects fled the scene with cellphones. Video footage obtained by detectives confirmed that none of men are known police members.”
Similarly, a family residing in Godoba Road was allegedly attacked by two unknown suspects wearing balaclavas on at the end of November. “The complainant heard a noise and decided to lock herself inside her room,” Du Toit said. “When she realised it was quiet, she exited and found her family injured.
“The suspects left the property with cellphones and wallets. The family was taken to hospital for medical attention.”
In early December a house break-in was reported in Hendricks Street in early December, which saw perpetrators forcibly accessing an outside building and making off with garden tools and furniture.
While Du Toit confirmed Somerset West police had put extra measures in place to police the targeted areas, he could not provide more details on the exact interventions, merely stating “an increased deployment” had been employed.
Anyone with information is asked to contact Somerset West police on 021 850 1325 or 021 850 1303.
Yaseen Gaffar
Some residents of Nautilus Village, situated near Gordon’s Bay Mall, are expressing concerns about the use of the public neighbourhood park.
This follows issues of the alleged intimidation of children, unauthorised surveillance and restrictions on park access.
“There have been instances where people feel intimidated or unwelcome in the park, children sworn at and dogs unleashed on people to get them out of the park,” a concerned resident claimed. “This is concerning as the park should be a place for everyone to enjoy.”
Residents report feeling pressured to leave the park, with some individuals allegedly enforcing their own rules and regulations. Concerns have been raised about individuals recording public activity without consent, posting it on a community WhatsApp group and making false allegations, accusing children of using drugs.
Allegations of misinformation and the suggestion of the formation of unauthorised “security groups” to remove park users have contributed to tensions within the community.
These concerns have led to a decline in park usage, with some residents avoiding the area altogether and others alleging the issues are racially motivated.
An advocate visiting from Johannesburg over the December holidays also alleges that she experienced discrimination.
“While visiting the communal pond/ park with my 11-year-old son and 13year-old nephew, we were subjected to behaviour that I regard as discriminatory and exclusionary at the hands of a resident of Nautilus Village,” she related.
“This resident deliberately opened her gate to release two large Rottweillers and proceeded to question the children about their presence in the park. The manner of this engagement left us feeling unwelcome and unfairly profiled as undesirable elements within the community.
“More importantly, my concerns extend beyond my personal experience. I fear that less privileged members of the community, who may not have the platform or resources to raise their voices, could face similar or even worse treatment without recourse.”
Residents are calling for an investigation into these allegations and for the City of Cape Town to take action to ensure the safety and equal access of all residents to public spaces.
Chris Pretorius, chairperson of Nautilus Village Homeowners’ Association, said he was unaware of any homeowner intimidating members of the public using the park.
“There have been incidents where dogs, accompanied by children, have attacked ducks at the pond and community members stepped in,” he explained.
“But I am not aware of incidents of intimidation and swearing at children or members of the public, and chasing them away. The park is a public facility and no-one has the right to chase anyone away.”
Patricia van der Ross, Mayoral Committee member for Community Services and Health, said Nautilus Village Park is a public open space managed by the City, hence municipal rules apply.
She confirmed an alternate signboard without the City logo is invalid and has been removed from the park.
“Under no circumstances may individuals chase anyone away from a public park or claim it is private. If improper behaviour is observed, residents should report it to Law Enforcement or use the contact details provided on the official City signboard,” Van der Ross pointed out.
“Intimidation is a crime and should be reported to the police. The City’s public open spaces are accessible to all members of the public. Every individual, regardless of their demographic or socio-economic status, has the right to enjoy these spaces. The City is dedicated to creating inclusive, safe and welcoming environments where all residents can benefit from recreational and social opportunities.”
Strand Beach comes out tops in safety initiative
A total of 19 741 children were tagged at Strand Beach as part of the City of Cape Town’s Identikidz programme this festive season, the highest number across all 16 participating beaches. The annual child-safety initiative, coordinated by the community, arts and culture development department, was run at beaches in the metropole from Friday 14 December to this past Sunday (12 January), with 123 579 children tagged over busy beach days and 354 children reunited with their families, thanks to the project. A total of 11 children were handed over to the provincial Department of Social Development, as their relatives had not been tracked down by nightfall. “We tagged nearly 3 000 more children this season,” said Patricia van der Ross, Mayoral Committe member for Community Services and Health, and the number of children reunited increased by 61. This is proof, once more, of the value that Identikidz offers. Strand Beach emerged as the most popular and busiest beach once again, with 19 741 children tagged over the period and 77 reunions, followed by Muizenberg with 14 274 children tagged and 72 reunions, and Strandfontein with 13 878 children tagged and 74 reunions, respectively. Photo: City of Cape Town
Barend J Williams
Bronwyn Wessels, a photographer from Somerset West, has been crowned the Face of Helderberg for 2024 by Miss Helderberg.
She plans to use her new title to shine a light on important causes, particularly supporting local charities such as the Somerset West Night Shelter.
Wessels, who grew up in Gordon’s Bay, was selected from a group of contestants who entered by submitting five photos to the Face of the Helderberg competition. Judges Abri Kriel, Eloise Chamion and Diane Nel chose her as the winner in December.
“I was caught off-guard when I was selected because I was hesitant to enter the competition at first,” the 26-year-old recalled. “But when I found out the competition aimed to help the Somerset West Night Shelter, I jumped at the chance.”
The main objective of the competition was to raise funds for the night shelter and Plus One Foster Care, which Wessels felt passionate about supporting.
As a photographer she wanted her submission to reflect her authentic self.
“I chose photos that best represented the ‘real’ me, rather than a ‘dollied-up’ version.”
One of the images Wessels submitted was of her holding her camera in front of her Christmas tree, a choice that felt fitting as the announcement was made in December.
On Friday 13 December she was announced as the winner via the Miss Helderberg Facebook page.
As part of her prize she received R2 000 from MultiNet, finishing and deportment lessons from Ace Models, and a photoshoot by Abri Kriel, with make-up by Eloïse Professional Makeup Academy & Artistry and hair by Dapper Salon.
“It was a bit intimidating being on the other side of the camera,” Wessels admitted.
For her, winning the competition was not only about personal recognition but also about giving back.
“Winning was nice, but for me it was more about contributing to an organisation that needs the funds. It felt as if I was giving my tithe.”
Looking ahead, Wessels is excited to use the platform to raise awareness for causes that matter most to her. “When people see my face, I want them to realise the importance of giving back to the community.”
Die Foundation for Women Empowerment en Handy Gals het van Vrydag 10 tot Maandag 13 Januarie ’n vierdaagse jeugkamp vir die seuns van Girls & Boys Town Macassar gehou om dissiplinêre vaardighede en spanwerk te verbeter voordat die skole vir die 2025akademiese jaar heropen.
Die kamp, wat by die seuns se blyplek gehou het, is in samewerking met die Macassar-polisie, die metro-polisie, die Wes-Kaapse Mediese Nooddienste (EMS) en Chrysalis Academy aangebied. Dit is ontwerp om aan te vul wat reeds deur die Girls & Boys Town-program aangebied word en om die seuns te help verstaan hoe hulle bestaande lewensvaardighede prakties kan toepas.
“Die kamp gee die seuns praktiese vaardighede en leer hulle hoe om beter saam te werk,” het Jerome Hendricks van die Foundation for Women
Empowerment gesê.
Die program het aktiwiteite soos noodhulpkursusse deur die EMS, ’n honde-skou deur die metro-polisie en ’n strandskoonmaakprojek ingesluit. Pretaktiwiteite soos sokker en ’n aasdier-jag was ook deel van die program.
Volgens Maureen Benn, die fasiliteitsleier, is die kamp een van verskeie projekte wat help om die seuns struktuur te bied en die mite te verdryf dat kinders wat by Girls & Boys Town geplaas word, probleemkinders is.
“Hierdie kinders kom uit huise waar die gesinstelsel afgebreek het. Ons werk is om dit te herbou. Dit beteken nie hulle is stout nie,” het sy gesê. Die samewerking tussen die organisasies help om nuwe vaardighede oor te dra terwyl hulle ook aan die struktuur van die Girls & Boys Townhawe van veiligheid gewoond raak.
Die Helderberg-tak van die National Coloured Congress (NCC) het Maandag en Dinsdag (13 en 14 Januarie) ’n terug-skool-toe-haarsnysessie in Broadlandspark, Strand, aangebied. Die program, waarin vrywilligers die seuns in die gemeenskap se hare gesny het, was daarop gemik om seker te maak dat die leerders netjies lyk vir die eerste dag terug by die skool. Volgens die NCC wil hulle verseker dat kinders wat nie die middele het nie, steeds selfvertroue kan hê en netjies lyk. Foto’s: Barend J. Williams
Die haarsnysessie is georganiseer deur (van links) Eben Muller, die streekorganiseerder van die NCC, proporsionele raadslid Felicia Solomons (subraad 8), Evolino Simons, die NCC-substreekkoördineerder vir die Helderberg, en Fayrooz Nefat.
’n Familie-reünie in Strand het ’n spesiale geleentheid geskep toe die 93jarige oudonderwyseres Lesley de Kock met drie van haar oudleerders herenig is. Die Botha- en Duminy-familie het op Saterdag 28 Desember in die braaisaal van die Suiderstrand NG kerk byeengekom om familiebande te versterk. De Kock, ’n inwoner van Strand, is spesiaal na die geleentheid genooi. Sy het haar onderwysloopbaan in 1951 by Stanford Sekondêre Laerskool (nou die Laerskool Okkie Smuts) in die Overberg begin. Johanna Botha (’n nooi Duminy) was een van haar eerste leerders in die destydse standerd 5 (nou gr. 7) en het saam met haar susters, Rita Thiart en Isabel Volschenk (’n nooi Duminy), die spesiale ontmoeting gereël. “Juffrou De Kock was baie gewild onder ons leerders. Sy was gemoedelik en aangenaam – iets wat sy steeds is,” het Botha gesê. De Kock het gesê die reünie het haar jaar gemaak. “Dit was ’n gelukkige oomblik om my drie oudleerders weer te sien.” By die spesiale geleentheid (van links agter) is Johanna Botha (84), Rita Thiart (83) en Isabel Volschenk (80) met hul oudonderwyser Lesley de Kock (voor).
Social workers of Somerset West ACVV are searching for the biological father of a child from the Helderberg. They need to locate Jason Klink, who was apparently last seen in the Somerset West
PUBLIEKE DEELNAMEPROSES: MACASSAR AFVALWATERSUIWERINGSAANLEG, KAPASITEITSUITBREIDING EN GEASSOSIEERDE INFRASTRUKTUUR HERSTEL, WES-KAAP
Projek Titel: Macassar Afvalwatersuiweringsaanleg, Kapasiteitsuitbreiding en Geassosieerde Infrastruktuur herstel, Stad Kaapstad,Wes-Kaap
Projekvoorstel: Op 07 Julie 2016 het die Departement van Omgewingsake en Ontwikkelingsbeplanning 'n Omgewingsmagtiging (OM) 16/3/1/1/A3/39/2078/14 aan die Stad Kaapstad uitgereik wat die voorgestelde opgradering en uitbreiding van die Macassar Afvalwatersuiweringsaanleg en geassosieerde infrastruktuur goedkeur het.As gevolg van die tydsverloop sedert die goedkeuring in 2016, is nuwe ontwerp ingenieurs aangestel om die gedetailleerde ontwerp te finaliseer Die ontwerpingenieurs het alternatiewe tegnologie-opsies geïdentifiseer wat die werke meer doeltreffend sal laat werk en die kwaliteit van die afvalwater wat na die riviermondingafgevoerword,salverbeter
Die voorgestelde hersiening van die ontwerpopgraderings sal die verwydering van meer as 1ha inheemse plantegroei vereis, wat Bedreigde Kaapse Vlakte Duinstrandveld-plantegroei insluit. Daarom word aansoek gedoen vir Lyskennisgewing 1, Aktiwiteit 27 enLyskennisgewing3Aktiwiteit12.
Regsraamwerk: Om omgewingsmagtiging te verkry, word 'n Basiese Assesseringsverslag (BAV) proses vir die voorgestelde werke vereis ingevolge die Wet op Nasionale Omgewingsbestuur (“WNO”, Wet No. 107 van 1998, soos gewysig) en die 2014 Omgewingsimpakassesseringsregulasies (soos gewysig). 'n Aansoek om Omgewingsmagtiging (OM) is ingedien by die WesKaapseDepartementvanOmgewingsakeenOntwikkelingsbeplanning(DOS&OP).
DOS&OPVerwysingsnommer:16/3/3/1/A3/39/2054/24
Beskikbare Inligting: Die Konsep Basiese Assesseringsverslag (KBAV) word vir 'n 30-dae hersienings- en kommentaartydperk aan die publieke beskikbaar gestel vanaf 15 Januarie 2025 tot 14 Februarie 2025 Die verslag kan verkry wordby:
·nHardekopievandieverslagkanbydieMacassarPubliekeBiblioteekin10BindLaan,Macassarbesigtigword;en ·Aanlyn By: https://www.zutari.com/macassar-wwtw-public-participation/ Geleentheid om Deel te Neem: Hiermee word kennis gegee van die aanvang van die Publieke Deelnameproses vir die voorgestelde ontwikkeling. Belangstellende en Geaffekteerde Partye (B&GPe) word uitgenooi om hul belangstelling in die projek te registreer, die Konsep BAV te hersien en enige kommentaar wat hulle mag hê aan Corlie Steyn van Zutari (besonderhede hieronder) binne die voorgeskrewe kommentaar tydperk in te dien. Versoeke om as 'n B&GP te registreer en enige kommentaar moet skriftelik ingedien word, tesame met u volledige kontakbesonderhede. Toekomstige korrespondensie rakende die OmgewingsprosessesalslegsaangeregistreerdeB&GPeverspreiword.
UITNODIGING NA PUBLIEKE VERGADERING
KENNISGEWING VAN 'N PUBLIEKE DEELNAME VERGADERING
Onderwerp: Om agtergrond te verskaf oor die voorgestelde opgradering van die Macassar Afvalwatersuiweringsaanleg Projek en om te deel wat die Omgewingsmagtigingsproses behels.
Ligging: Macassar Nuwe Gemeenskapsaal te Burgstraat 8, Macassar Datum en Tyd: 29 Januarie 2025 @ 17:30 tot 19:30 Vir meer inligting, kontak asseblief vir Corlie Steyn van Zutari (besonderhede hieronder)
Kontak Persoon: Corlie Steyn
Epos: PPP@zutari.com
Telefoon: 044 805 5400 Posadres: Posbus 509, George, 6530 Faks: 044 873 5843
area. He is being sought regarding his child. Anyone with information on his whereabouts is asked to contact the social worker of the ACVV, Louwrinda de Wet, on 021 852 2103.
In support of Mental Health and Wellness, the South African Depression and Anxiety Group (Sadag) is launching two new support groups tailored to different needs.
The groups will provide a safe space for individuals living with post-traumatic stress and those coping with the challenges of skin conditions and mental wellness respectively.
Each group is focused on connection, understanding and resilience, offering members a chance to share their experiences and find support.
With these initiatives Sadag continues to expand its commitment to creating inclusive and supportive mental-health services.
The online support group for those suffering from skin conditions launches today (Wednesday 15 January) at 18:00 and is open to anyone battling a skin condition.
The online group for people suffering from post-traumatic stress will be launched on Saturday 18 January at 08:00.
Again, it is open to anyone battling the struggles of posttraumatic stress.
To find out more information on the support group for those suffering from a skin condition, contact Zamansele on 067 995 6133. For further details on the post traumatic stress support group, contact Sinenhlanhla on 067 932 8071.
To learn more about Sadag’s other mental-health support groups, visit www.sadag.org, call 0800 212 223 or send an SMS to 31393 to speak to a counsellor.
PUBLIC PARTICIPATION PROCESS: MACASSAR WASTEWATER TREATMENT WORKS, CAPACITY EXTENSION AND ASSOCIATED INFRASTRUCTURE REFURBISHMENT, WESTERN CAPE
Project Title: Macassar Wastewater Treatment Works, Capacity Extension and Associated Infrastructure Refurbishment, City of CapeTown,WesternCape
Project Proposal: On the 07 July 2016, the Department of Environmental Affairs and Development Planning issued an Environmental Authorisation (EA) 16/3/1/1/A3/39/2078/14 to the City of Cape Town approving the proposed upgrade and expansion of the Macassar Wastewater Treatment Works (WWTW) and associated infrastructure. However due to the time that has passed since the approval in 2016, new design engineers have been appointed to finalise the detailed design. The design engineers have identified alternative technology options that will enable the works to run more efficiently and improve the quality of theeffluentbeingdischargedtotheestuary
The proposed revision to the design upgrades will require the clearance of more than 1ha of indigenous vegetation, which includes EndangeredCapeFlatsDuneStrandveldvegetation.Therefore,ListingNotice1,Activity27andListingNotice3Activity12isbeing appliedfor
Legal Framework: To seek environmental authorisation, a BasicAssessment Reporting (BAR) process for the proposed works is required in terms of the National Environment Management Act (NEMA Act No. 107 of 1998, as amended) and the 2014 EnvironmentalImpactAssessment(EIA)Regulations(asamended).AnApplicationforEnvironmentalAuthorisation(EA)hasbeen submittedtotheWesternCapeDepartmentofEnvironmentalAffairsandDevelopmentPlanning(DEA&DP).
DEA&DPRefNumber:16/3/3/1/A3/39/2054/24
Available Information: The Draft BasicAssessment Report (BAR) is being made available to the public for a 30-day review and commentperiodbetween15January2025until14February2025 Thereportcanbeaccessedatthefollowinglocations:
· AhardcopyoftheDraftBARhasbeenmadeavailableattheMacassarPublicLibrary,10BindAvenue,Macassar;and · Online at: https://www.zutari.com/macassar-wwtw-public-participation/
Opportunity to Participate: Notice is hereby given of the commencement of the Public Participation Process for the proposed development. Interested andAffected Parties (I&APs) are invited to register their interest in the project, review the Draft BAR and to submit any comment they may have to Corlie Steyn of Zutari (details below) within the prescribed comment period. Requests to register as an I&APand any comments must be submitted in writing together with your full contact details. Future correspondence relatingtotheEnvironmentalProcesseswillbedistributedtoregisteredI&APsonly
PUBLIC MEETING INVITATION
NOTIFICATION OF A PUBLIC PATRICIPATION ENGAGEMENT MEETING
Topic: To provide background on the proposed upgrade of the Macassar Water Treatment Works Project and to share what the Environmental Authorisation Process entails.
Location: Macassar New Community Hall at 8 Burg Street, Macassar
Date and Time: 29 January 2025 @ 17:30 to 19:30 For more information, please contact Corlie Steyn from Zutari (details below)
Contact Person: Corlie Steyn Email: PPP@zutari.com
Telephone: 044 805 5400 Postal: PO Box 509, George, 6530 Fax: 044 873 5843 Disclaimer:
Gordon’s Bay Yacht Club (GBYC) celebrated the new year with a Glitz & Glamour New Year’s Eve dance on Tuesday 31 December.
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The festivities kicked off at 19:00, drawing guests eager to celebrate in style. On arrival, guests enjoyed complimentary glasses of champagne, setting the tone for a truly indulgent evening.
The vibrant atmosphere thrived thanks to DJ Peter Wyness, who kept everyone dancing as midnight approached. The venue sparkled with candlelight, while disco balls and mirrors reflected light and created a mesmerising backdrop for guests watching the last sunset of 2024.
Many guests praised the team for the stunning decor, which featured soft, elegant tones that provided the perfect backdrop for all the evening’s glitz and glamour. Formal dinner seating exuded sophistication, while ambient lighting created a warm glow throughout the venue. Delicate floral arrangements and
twinkling stars on the tables added a romantic touch, making the event visually captivating and truly memorable for all. The evening was not just about food; it was about creating an experience that brought people together around the table. Each dish was thoughtfully crafted to tantalise the taste buds and elevate the celebratory spirit of the night. Guests raised their glasses for toasts and laughter as they tucked into an a la carte culinary journey, an integral part of such a night.
On a “Glitz & Glamour” theme, many guests showcased their most glamorous outfits, enhancing the celebratory spirit. The evening reached its peak with the thrilling midnight countdown, where guests danced joyfully into the wee hours. Adding to the fun, the GBYC Commodore even danced on tables with guests! Organised by GBYC, this event remains a favourite for an upscale New Year jolly. Be sure to follow the GBYC on social media to avoid missing any future events.
with the account.
Estate number: 020103/2023
Master s Ofce: CAPETOWN Province: WESTERNCAPE Magistrate’s Ofce: SOMERSETWEST Surname: HUISKENS
First names: ANNAMARGARETHA
Date of birth: 1935-09-03
Identity Number: 3509030018086
Last residential address: HUIS VONKE, LOURENSFORD STREET, SOMERETWEST
Date of death: 2023-08-01
For publication in the Government Gazette on: 2025-01-17
Name and address of Executor: JANHARMVANZYL
beskikbaar vir Agente in ons Somerset Wes kantoor, om ‘n Arbeidsregsdiens aan besighede en boere te bemark. Ondervinding is nie ‘n vereiste nie aangesien o p
l w o r d Onderhoude sal gevoer word by ons SomersetWeskantoor
Belangstellendes kan hul CV’s stuur na reception-sw@serr co.za, en sal gekontak word vir ‘n onderhoud Hoë 5 syfer inkomstes kan verdien word.
Ons is ‘n Nasionale Maatskappy wat as gevolg van ‘n fenomenale groei ons bemarkingspan in Somerset Wes uitbrei. Ons is opsoek na nuwe talent om telefoniese afsprake met besighede en boere te maak vir ons bemarkings konsultante teneinde ons diens te bemark.
Ondervinding is nie ‘n vereiste nie aangesien behoorlike in-huis opleiding verskafword.
Belangstellendes kan hul CV’s stuur na reception-sw@serr co.za
Jysalgekontakwordvir‘nonderhoud.
Yaseen Gaffar
Lewellyn de Wee, a former foster child, understands first-hand the transformative power of sports.
This passion fuelled the creation of the Anton Bantu Foundation in 2018, with the mission of using athletics and education to create positive change for the youth in the Helderberg basin.
De Wee’s own life was shaped by athletics, and he hopes to provide similar opportunities for others. “Many children have hidden athletic talent,” he said. “We want to help identify that talent and give them a chance to develop their skills and stay away from negative influences.”
The foundation’s upcoming outreach athletic coaching clinics are aimed at young people of all experience levels. “We welcome anyone interested in athletics, whether they’re complete beginners or looking to sharpen their existing skills,” said De Wee.
The free clinics are unique in its focus on reaching under-served areas. “We’re going out to those areas where there haven’t been opportunities for athletics development,” explained De Wee. “We want to find those hidden talents and connect them with the resources they need to succeed.”
The clinics will provide personalised coaching, training programmes, and
even address the nutritional needs of young athletes. Standout participants will be identified for potential scholarships and placement with top athletics clubs.
“Our goal is to not only identify talent, but also to develop a strong athletics system in the Helderberg,” said De Wee. “We even dream of having our own tartan track and stadium someday.”
The initiative is part of a broader awareness campaign for the Anton Bantu Foundation. “We’re laying the groundwork to prepare these young athletes for future events such as the 2026 Los Angeles Olympics,” De Wee said. “Imagine a much bigger South African team with athletes from our very own communities shining on the global stage!”
The foundation’s long-term goals include establishing a strong athletics culture among the youth, building a dedicated athletics facility, and sending home-grown athletes to compete in future Olympic Games.
De Wee encouraged parents to get involved and welcomed support from the community and businesses to help make the foundation’s goals a reality.“Let your children explore new skills through our coaching programme.”
V For more information, visit the Anton Bantu Foundation’s Facebook page.
Die Helderberg-rugbyklub het die afgelope sewe weke uiters suksesvolle voorseisoense rugby-oefensessies in die Charles Morkel-stadion afgehandel.
Die sessies is gelei deur die hoofafrigter, Phil Pretorius, bygestaan deur Sidney Raaths, Tayo Roodman, Hannes Louw, Ullrich Barnard en Helgaard Steenkamp.
Die eerste oefeninge in die nuwe jaar is vir Maandag (13 Januarie) beplan en daarna elke Dinsdag, Donderdag en Maandag.
Die eerste geskeduleerde vriendskaplike wedstryde is in die Charles Morkel-stadion teen Safcol United op Saterdag 15 Februarie.
Dit word gevolg deur wedstryde teen Valsbaai, Villager, Van der StelEvergreens en Unimil, voordat die liga later – in April – begin.
St George’s Rugby Club will host the Lulu Boy’s 7s tournament at the Gustrouw Sports Ground this Saturday (18 January).
Sponsored by Spar Cinnamon Square, the tournament promises fast-paced action, thrilling tries and unforgettable moments.
As of this week, a staggering total of 18 teams from around the Cape have confirmed their participation.
As back-to-back champions of the 2023 and 2024 Score WP Club Rugby 7s Tournament,
and defending champions of the inaugural Lulu 7s, the hosts are ready to bring the fire once again.
With the heart of champions and the passion of the community behind them, the Lulu Boys are set to defend their title and keep the legacy alive on home turf.
Admission is R30 for adults, R20 for students and pensioners, and cooler boxes will be allowed in at R100. Parking costs R20 for field parking and R50 for private parking.
Hottentots Holland Cricket Club (HHCC) returned to club-cricket action over the weekend when they hosted Avendale Cricket Club in a First Division A clash at the Naval Grounds in Gordon’s Bay on Saturday 11 January.
But it was not the start to the new year they had hoped for, as they suffered a dismal loss.
HHCC were asked to field first and started off good, bowling good lines and getting the early breakthrough as they restricted the visitors to 54/2 after 14 overs.
After the drinks break, the Avendale CC batsmen returned to the crease with a positive approach. A 142-run partnership gave the visitors an advantage, and they eventually ended
their innings on 277/7. The pick of the HHCC bowlers were Jameel Ismail (4/50) and Guillaume Jansen (2/51).
The home team started their innings on the back foot, loosing two wickets in the first two overs, but substantial partnerships got them back on track as they stabilised the ship on 62/3 after 16 overs.
But after the drinks break, the Avendale bowlers applied pressure and the local boys unfortunately stumbled, lost wickets at regular intervals and failed to build partnerships.
HHCC were all bowled out for 110 in the 31st over, with Shakoer Baderoen (26) and Junaid Daniels (19) as the top runs scorers.
This coming weekend, HHCC are in action in a double-header on the road against Gugulethu CC on Saturday 18
January and hosting St Augustine’s CC on Sunday 19 January.
In Second Division A, Macassar CC (MCC) hosted Ikamva CC at Riverside Oval, with the visitors wining the toss and electing to field.
Macassar lost two wickets early and tried to stabilise the ship on 40/2. They succeeded and lost their third wicket on 121. Pinch-hitter Peter Samuels was joined by 14-year-old Wayden Mampa, the youngest first-team player in the club’s history.
The pair did not disappoint as Samuels dispatched the deliveries over the boundary ropes. Mampa kept his cool and rotated the strike and hitting a boundary here and there. The partnership was eventually broken when Samuels (82) lost his wicket.
It was left to Mampa (52) to carry the
innings and he did well, losing his wicket with three overs to spare. MCC finished their 40-over innings with score on 281 runs.
At the change of innings the MCC bowling attack, led by left-arm opener Robin Pretorius, took charge of proceedings. Ikamva showed some resistance, but wickets fell regularly and they were eventually bowled out for 62 runs in 22.2 overs to hand the hosts a bonus-point win. Pretorius (5/18) and Julian Salie (2/1) were the chief destroyers.
This coming weekend, MCC travel to take on Cape Forces CC, while Somerset West CC host Belhar CC in a First Division B match. In First Division D, Helderberg CC are at home to Bellville South CC and Strand CC travel to to take on Mitchells Plain CC.
