Motorists around Somerset West are living in fear as heavy and abnormal trucks, bypassing the N2 weighbridge, are increasingly using Main Road between Old Main Road,Firgrove, and the R44 Broadway Boulevard as a shortcut.
Local resident JohannJooste is leading the charge for action, citing dangerous driving and the rapid deterioration of the recently resurfaced road. “Thesetruck drivers have no respect for other road users,” Jooste said, recounting his own harrowing experiences. “I have twice in the last two weeks been pushed off the road, and another driver threatened me with a dangerous weapon. It’s become a terrifying ordeal to drive in MainRoad.” The problem, he explained, stemmed from trucks seeking to avoid the N2
‘Terrifying ordeal’ for motorists
weighbridge. This diversion has led to a dramatic increase in heavy vehicle traffic on a road ill-equipped to handle it.
“In June 2022 I reported the appalling condition of this road,” recalled Jooste, who also sought the publication’s assistance in hopes of a resolution (“Row brews over M9’s deteriorating state,” DistrictMail, 20 July 2022). “After much effort the entire section was resurfaced, for which we were all immensely grateful. But now it’s being destroyed again.”
Jooste emphasised he had foreseen this problem. “I specifically requested and appealed for signage to be placed at these intersections, prohibiting heavy and abnormal vehicles from using this section to avoid the weighbridge, but my warnings were ignored.
“I now again appeal to both the Western Cape Government and the City of Cape Town to consider the above request seriously. We need immediate action to protect our roads and our safety. Signage and enforcement are crucial to preventing further damage and ensuring the safety of all road users.”
Asked to confirm claims that heavy trucks were using Main Road to avoid the weighbridge, Kevin Jacobs, spokesperson for the Traffic Service, stated his division was aware of this claim and had informed the Western Cape Provincial Traffic Department. “There are no prohibited-restriction signs that will allow traffic officers to enforce the offence,” clarified Jacobs. “Traffic officers conducted vehicle checkpoints on many
Truckingdangerirks
occasions on the M9 to check for roadworthiness and other offences. Given the sheer number of vehicles on the roads, the size of the metropole and the many demands on our services, it is simply not possible for the Traffic Service to be visible everywhere, all of the time.”
Mayoral Committee member for Urban Mobility, Councillor Rob Quintas, said the City’s Transport Planning and Network Management branch did not receive the request for signage prohibiting trucks from using the road, however, the matter will be investigated and feedback provided. He added that claims that the road condition was deteriorating will be investigated and appropriate action will be taken. “It is to be noted that this road provides access to Winery and Steynsrust Road that leads to agricultural hubs,” said Quintas, and clarified that the road was recently transferred to the City as the road authority.
Help stricken pastor
JameyGordon
A Somerset West local iscalling on the broader Helderberg community to unite behind a raffle in hopes of affording a life-changing difference.
Kelderhof resident Minki Fourie has organised a raffle with R30 000 worth of prizes to raise funds for her beloved father's critical cancer treatment.
According to Fourie, every R100 and R200 ticket sold will contribute to her father’s immunotherapy for Epithelioid Inflammatory Myofibroblastic Sarcoma (EIMS), a devastatingly rare cancer affecting only 55 people globally.
She further shared that the initial tumour, a large and complex mass attached to her father's lung and back, picked up on a CT scan, required surgery. Sadly, regrowth six weeks post-operation necessitated treatment. However,due to the rarity of the disease and lack of established guidelines medical-aid coverage is denied, leaving the family to bear the significant costs.
“Seeing my father in a desperate situation, knowing his life-saving medication for his extremely rare disease was financially unattainable (R82 000 every three weeks for 18 infusions), I felt compelled to act. I wanted to offer hope and rally community support. The power of a united community
is truly remarkable. I couldn't bear to see him suffer without treatment. I also aim to raise awareness about the challenges faced by individuals with rare diseases, whose medical aids often deny coverage for expensive treatments due to cost considerations.”
CROWDFUNDINGCAMPAIGN
Driven by gratitude for the support gauged via an online crowdfunding campaign and seeking a fresh fundraising approach, Fourie launched the raffle. “Asking for donations is challenging and offering great prizes as part of a giveaway seemed a more inclusive way to reach a wider audience,” she pointed out.
She related how the prizes were secured. “A close school friend, known for her caring nature, helped secure fantastic prizes for the raffle, sponsored by her and other friends of hers. My brother and I also contributed two prizes, aswe are deeply involved in our father's journey and want the raffle to succeed. With professionalhelp we also set up a raffle website and a YOCO payment portal, supported by user-friendly apps.”
The website, where tickets are available for purchase, will do an automatic drawafter the raffle deadline, which is Monday 31 March at 17:00. There will be two draws: one for the most prizes and number two specifically for a kudu hunt.
A ticket could win supporters:
• A weekend getaway at Copia Eco Cabins in Botrivier (valued at R5 000);
• A kudu hunt in Beaufort West, including two nights' accommodation (valued at R15 000; R200 per ticket);
• A Fieldbar Drinksbar (valued at R2 400);
• A Saltri gift hamper (valued at R1 000);
• Six bottles of Simonsig bubbly (valued at R1 200);
• A Limoncello hamper (valued at R1 300);
• Two Fanel wine glass boxes;
• A Stanley The Legendary Classic Bottle 1.0L (valued at R1 600);
• A Leatherman Bond multipurpose tool (valued at R2 030); and
• A LED Lenser P4R Core Pen Light (valued at R1 065).
IMMENSELYGRATEFUL
Addressing the potential consequences should her father not be able to continue the treatments, Fourie said: “After extensive testing, immunotherapy emerged as his only viable option. Unfortunately, medical aids currently do not recognise this treatment, and mainstream radiation and chemotherapy are ineffective.
“This created a daunting and uncertain future. I am immensely grateful for the support that has allowed my father to continue this medication. Remarkably, the second tumour, which developed after the initial surgery, is shrinking with this treatment.
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Following four infusions we observed a 26% reduction in size, demonstrating the medication’s efficacy. “My father recently received his seventh infusion, and we are praying that the tumour will be eradicated after the eighth. We can conduct a scan after the eighth infusion. Initially, the oncologist recommended 18 infusions.”
The crowdfunding campaign, entitled “Get Barry to 18 bags of immunotherapy”, remains active, providing regular updates on his progress.
By Monday (24 March), R447 450 of the goal amount, R1 440 000, has been raised. Fourie further shared that while the journey to recovery is emotionally overwhelming for her father, he is doing really
well physically.
“He has only minor side-effects from the treatment, such as being tired and mild skin irritation. But his quality of life is very good concerning the circumstances.”
Fourie conveyed the following word of encouragement to the supportive community: “My dad is such a caring and loving person in his community. As a reverend (now retired) he served all the communities he lived in, with such compassion over the years, always giving time and care to people in need, most of the time at his own expense. I would love more people to rally around him and show him a bit of love and support in return.” To support the raffle, visit https://helpsupportbarry.site/.
Mikal Roman has had enough of endometriosis ruling her life and preventing her from speaking out.
The Strand resident is raising her voice and being candid about living with the condition this EndometriosisAwareness Month (March).
Endometriosis is the presence of endometrial tissue, glandsand stroma anywhere other than where they should be, lining and filling the uterus’ endometrial cavity. That hollowspace plays a crucial role in reproduction, including implantation and pregnancy.
They somehow find their way to the pelvis, upper abdomen, lungs and even the brain. This results in symptoms such as chronic pelvic pain, painful intercourse, infertility, abnormal uterine bleeding and any other bowelor bladder-related symptoms.
Roman was diagnosed with the condition almost 10 years ago. As a teenager, she started struggling with severe abdominal pain.
“I am a very heavy bleeder and I used to be sent home from school because I would faint,” the 40-year-old recalled. By her mid-20s the pain had become unbearable. This had an adverse effect on her work and personallife, as wellas a negative impact on her mentalhealth.
“I would lie on the floor in the foetal position, crying from the excruciating pain,” Roman related. “It felt as if somebody with long witch’s nails wascarving through my stomach.”
It is when a former colleague, who suffered from the same condition, approached her and suggested her symptoms may be endometriosis. Despite Roman’s own subsequent research, her doctor dismissed her.
Reluctantly, she was given a referral letter to a gynaecologist, who scheduled her for a laparoscopy – a surgical procedure to examine a woman’s pelvic organs; a thin-lighted tube with a video camera is placed into the stomach via an incision.
Roman was officially diagnosed at age 30. “It was a relief to finally put a name to what was wrong with me, but also sad because I had a chronic disease for which there was no cure.”
Professor Thabo Matsameng confirmed there is no cure for endometriosis. With more than 15 years of treating the condition, the head of the Clinical Unit for Reproductive Medicine in the Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology at Tygerberg Hospital pointed out that “because of pain and infertility the
majority of patients with endometriosis suffer anxiety and depression”.
He saiddiagnosing endometriosis is quite simple. When a general practitioner has a strong suspicion, from their examination and the patient’s history, a referral to a gynaecologist is needed.
A gynae will conduct a pelvic ultrasound that can confirm endometriomas ovarian cysts, while a laparoscopy will confirm the endometriosis lesions.
Once a patient has been diagnosed, a regime for managing pain can include any analgesic medication or hormone-suppression method. If these do not help, the endometriosis lesion will be surgically removed through a laparoscopy, enabling the anatomy to be restored so the patient can proceed with conception strategies.
“The condition is not fatal and can be managed,” Matsameng emphasised, adding it’s best for patients to be managed by clinicians with expertise in dealing with endometriosis, especially if they are considering conceiving.
Roman continuously takes anti-inflammatories and avoids flare-ups by adopting a plant-based diet.
On turning 40 in January, she decided to bring awareness of endometriosis to others.
“I’d had enough of feeling ashamed and guilty because of my condition. I want young girls, who are still learning to understand their bodies, to know that bad periods and being in excruciating pain are not normal.”
Jonges kan nou in skryf
Inskrywings vir Mej. Helderberg 2025 is amptelik oop. Enigiemand tussen die ouderdom van drie en 25 jaar oud word, genooi om deel te neem. Die koste om in
te skryf, is R150 en almal wat belangstel, kan ’n vorm aanvra. Die sluitingsdatum vir die skoonheidskompetisie is Woensdag 30 April. Die sesde jaarlikse Mej.Helderberg sal Saterdag 7 Junie aangebied word. Kontak Rachmat by 0634389359 of Nadia by 0780286121.
The Khayelitsha Sub-district Community Policing Forum’s (CPF) new executive committee held its first meeting at Volk Church of Africa in Strand on Wednesday 19 March.
The committee was elected on Thursday 6 March and represents nine CPF structures in the sub-district. It comprises Marlon Solomons (Macassar CPF) as chairperson, Simphiwe Mqulwana (Lwandle CPF) as deputy chairperson, Nomfundo Ntelezi (Makhaza CPF) as treasurer, Niklaas Thysen (Strand CPF) as public-relations officer, Lunga Guza (Lingelethu CPF) as project coordinator, Phindile George (Khayelitsha Site B CPF) as deputy secretary and Donovan Brown (Gordon’s Bay CPF) as an additional member.
“Khayelitsha’s sub-district is known for all the wrong reasons. We want to change that,” Solomons said.
He emphasised that the executive committee’s goal is to curb crime in all nine of its precincts. To achieve this, the CPFs will engage in more joint operations to cover a wider area.
Plans to be more active by means of increased visibility
initiatives, especially during the week, were also discussed.
Solomons also highlighted that the executive committee is dedicated to a more proactive function, rather than keeping seats warm.
Brigadier Mnoneleli Magobiyane, commissioner for the sub-district, thanked the executive-committee members for stepping up to the plate and joining hands for the collective fight against crime.
‘‘There is no clear formula to fight crime, and I am open to any and all ideas,” Magobiyane said.
He added that robbery incidents are among his biggest concerns in the sub-district. Two of its stations are in the top 35 for reports of the crime in the country.
The sub-district has been given a mandate to reduced crime within six months by national police commissioner, Lieutenant General Sehlahle Fannie Masemola. It follows a directive from police minister Senzo Mchunu, after he received complaints of the high rate of serious crimes in the province.
A Macassar pensioner is pleading with the City of Cape Town to assist with removing the beach sand from her doorstep.
Faheema Majiet claims the City officials have informed her that it is her responsibility to remove the sand.
Majiet alleges that her son was informed by a member of Helfrich’s staff that the ticket had been closed because the City does not remove sand from pavements and roads on the beach. She then contacted Helfrich through a WhatsApp group run by the councillor, and alleges he completely ignored her.
Helfrich expressed his sympathy for the situation but denied that it was a member of his staff who informed her son that the ticket had been closed.
“Where do I, a pensioner, get the money to remove all that sand?” Majiet asked. “Yesterday (17 March) I had to pay people to remove the sand, and they were able to fill 70 wheelbarrows. Today (18 March), half of my driveway is full of sand again!”
According to Majiet, she must fork out thousands of rands because removing the sand requires a bulldozer.
“The pavement belongs to the City. They must come clear it up,” she said frustratedly, “I pay my rates and taxes!”
Majiet’s entire pavement and driveways are buried beneath the dunes. Sand has begun to accumulating on the property in Cape Cod Road in Macassar. This blocks one of her garage doors from opening, and there seems to be no end in sight for the winds that are causing the problem.
The 63-year-old lives alone in the main house, while her son occupies a separate entrance on the property. The beachfront home is isolated behind a resort.
With the street nearly completely covered in sand, she had to live at her sister’s home for a few days in the hope that the winds would subside.
“Normally I remove the sand at my own expense. However, this year the winds have been so strong that the sand just continues to pile up,” Majiet said.
On Thursday 27 February, her son reported the dunes to the City and received a digital ticket as a reference. After two weeks of no response, he followed up by visiting the office of Ward 109 councillor Peter Helfrich.
He claims it was an official of the City’s Revenue Department who assisted the son.
The councillor also denied that he ignored Majiet’s message, explaining that he is only a member of the group.
Helfrich believes she may be confused, since the administrator of the group is also named Peter, alleging this could have led to her belief that he read her message.
“I frequently explain to residents that I am part of many public groups, and it is not possible for me to monitor every conversation,” said Helfrich.
He claims that Majiet’s son approached the City requesting that sand be removed from their property, which he was unable to assist with. This is because it is the residents’ responsibility to remove the sand themselves, and the City does not perform work on private property.
“Now that Majiet raised a new request to clear the sand from the sidewalks and the road, I have no doubt that the City will be more than willing to look into the matter and assist,” said Helfrich.
DistrictMail & Helderberg Gazette reached out to the City’s media office for comment, but no response was received at the time of going to print. The publication undertakes to publish the comment once forthcoming.
Meanwhile, Majiet said she is frustrated by Helfrich's response to her dilemma, as well as her perceived lack of accountability from the City.
Só vertel Marthinus Visser, besturende direkteur van Akademia, tydens ’n Wes-Kaap-hoofdegeleentheid wat op Dinsdag 11 Februarie aangebied is. Dit volg nadat die instelling in April 2024 sy voorneme aangekondig het om sy geografiese voetspoor na dié streek te vergroot.
Oklahoma Street Primary School in Macassar marked a milestone with the official opening of the brand-new foundation phase computerroom, sponsored by Helderberg Sunrise Rotary Club, on Friday 7 March.
Principal JoAnn Apollis warmly welcomed attendees, acknowledging the longstanding and fruitful collaboration with Helderberg Sunrise Rotary Club for over a decade.
Garth Gibson, who spearheaded the project for the local Rotary club, detailed the initiative’s origins and objectives.
For 14 years, the Helderberg Sunrise Rotary Club has supportedOklahoma Primary with literacy and numeracy materials. However, the cost of traditional workbooks prompted a search for a sustainable solution.
The answer: an online numeracy programme.
“Due to the high annual cost of the Brombacher Number Sense Numeracy workbooks, a more sustainable approach was necessary. The solution involved providing learners with an online version of the programme, which would yield significant cost savings,” Gibson explained.
A classroom was made available for conversion into a computer room – a great deal of work was needed, from installing the necessary cabling, computer desks and painting to blinds, air-conditioning and the computers themselves.
The Rotary Interact Club of ParelVallei High School painted a fantastic mural on the back wall, which makes a huge difference to the ambience of the computer room. Gibson oversaw the project and, with the support of local and international Rotary partners, the computer room was successfully completed, representing a substantial investment of effort.
Helderberg Sunrise Rotary Club past president Jo Mostert elaborated on the project's significance. In her speech, she highlighted the club’s commitment to uplifting the local community.
been a deeply rewarding one over the past 14 years and was inspired by the words of Archbishop Desmond Tutu: ‘Support literacy for all. It is an effective, practical way to overcome our sad and divided past.’ Education is an evolving journey, and as the needs of learners grow, so must our support.”
Mostert acknowledged the remarkable collaboration that made the project possible. “Without the dedication of Rotary, our club members, our generous sponsors – including the Carl Duisberg Foundation – the leadership and staff of Oklahoma Primary, and the Western Cape Education Department, this vision would not have been realised. This computer room is more than just a space; it is a gateway to opportunity, knowledge, and a brighter future. Let us continue to build a world where every child has the tools they need to thrive.”
ICT Service Manager Stanley Marais provided an informative presentation entitled “Integrating technology into the curriculum”. Llewellyn Etson, chairperson of the school governing body, thanked all involved in bringing the life-changing project to fruition.
Apollis and Mostert presided over the ceremonial ribbon-cutting, after which everyone adjourned to the staffroom for refreshments.
Celebrating World Sleep Day one mattress at a time
Many concerned South Africans hold their breath whenever there is a spat among members of the Cabinet, whether it concerns the Bela Bill, EWC, NHI or VAT. The burning question is: Will the GNU hold or fall apart?
On Wednesday 2 April, at 10:00 at the Strand Town Hall, seasoned journalist, broadcaster and author John Matisonn will address the University of the Third Age (U3A) Helderberg audience on precisely that matter.
Entitled “How safe is the GNU?”, his talk considers the GNU to be more stable than the media would have us believe, but asks how long and what it had to do to ensure stability in the country.
Matisonn is eminently qualified to give a very accurate and informed assessment of this situation, as he has known every Prime Minister or President of South Africa since John Vorster and served in the government of Nelson Mandela.
His work has appeared in many of the world’s leading newspapers such as the New York Times, Financial Times and Washington Post. He also spent 19 months in Afghanistan with the United Nations where he headed up the UN election project.
Matisonn's book God, Spies and Lies: Finding South Africa’s future through its past is in its
sixth edition, while his more recent focus has been on lessons for South Africa from countries that have turned their economies around to produce rapid growth. His book will be on sale for an extremelyreasonable R100.
Those interested in attending are humbly requested to bring cash, as there willbe no card facilities available.
Members are welcome to attend the event free of charge; visitors are required to pay R20 at the door. Membership badges will be available for collection from 09:00 to 09:50.
Church stresses care
The Followers of Christ church held its annual Awareness Day event on Saturday 15 March at Rust en Vrede Farm in Raithby, focusing on care, hope, love and life, with special emphasis on domestic and gender-based violence.
This initiative, started by youth pastor Andry Lottering and his wife Ronel, aims to raise awareness of the challenges faced by many individuals in the community and of the professional assistance and services that are available.
The event, supported by apostle Abraham and Ellen Julius, leaders and founders of the church, featured services from various stakeholders, including Somerset West police, the Western Cape Department of Correctional Services, Stellcare and Unathi Community Development.
This year’s event placed a strong focus on the youth, addressing issues such as peer pressure, uncertainty about their future, unemployment and the prevalence of drug-related substances in the community.
“Our objective with the Awareness Day programme is to reach as many households as possible and bring hope and change to lives,” said Lottering. “We want to assure everyone that there is hope and help available and that no one has to suffer alone.”
The Followers of Christ church extended its gratitude to local sponsors Pick n Pay Waterstone Village Somerset West, RM Fotography and Digital Works, and PSN Lifestyle, whose contributions were invaluable in making the event a success. The church also thanked the speakers, facilitators and those attending, adding that it looked forward to its next event. For more information on The Followers of Christ church, contact Lottering at ablotriet@ gmail.com or on 078 829 1628.
The grape-harvest season at Vergelegen Wine Estateis finally drawing to a close, and what better way to celebrate than with a rustic feast at a stunning new secret venue on this 325-year-old Somerset West farm?
Offering fine wine and exceptional food, this exclusive event takes place on Sunday 6 April, from 16:00 to 20:30. With just 60 seats available, guests will gather at the Wine Tasting Centre before embarking on a scenic ride in farm vehicles to a picturesque vineyard setting. Here they’ll sip on bubbles, savour gourmet canapés and even hand-pick their own grapes, perfect for capturing
Instagram-worthy moments. As the sun sets the journey continues to a hidden venue, where two long harvest tables will be set for a lavish farm-style feast.
The Ceekay acoustic cover band will provide live music as guests indulge in artisanalcheeses, charcuterie, homegrown vegetables, dessert and a selection of Heritage Range wines. The meal will be served family-style, ensuring a warm, relaxed atmosphere.
Tickets cost R950 per person. This includes a welcome drink, canapés, harvest dinner, live music, wine and a take-home gift.
Seats are limited. For bookings, visit https://vergelegen.co.za/event/vergelegen-live-music-harvest-feast/
•Wandisa Child Protection and Adoption Agency urgently appeals to the public for information regarding a male child found in Simon Street, Nomzamo, on Wednesday 5 March.
The child, estimated to have been born on Saturday 1 March, requires immediate assistance in locating his birth parents or family members. Anyone with information about the child’s identity, whereabouts of his family or the circumstances of his discovery, is urged to contact Renate from Wandisa on 079 063 4144 as soon as possible. Failure to respond may result in the child being placed for adoption through court proceedings.
•Badisa Strand is urgently seeking the public’s assistance in locating Abe van Niso. This request is in connection with the welfare of his four-month-old infant.
Niso is believed to be in or around Pholile Park informal settlement.
The local office is also looking for Samantha Jacobs in connection with her
daughter, Nequesha Matthews (17). Jacobs’ last known address is 70 Magalies Street in Matroosfontein.
Anyone with information regarding Jacobs’ or Niso’s whereabouts is requested to contact Badisa Strand on 021 853 1888 or 076 292 2558.
•ACVV Somerset West is looking for Cecelia “Heidi” Louw. Her last known movements were in Somerset West. Anyone with knowledge of her whereabouts, is asked to phone Hendrika Schoeman on 021 852 2103.
• Child Welfare South Africa’s Helderberg office is seeking public assistance in locating two biological mothers. The first is Jade Witbooi, whose last known location was in the Strand area.
The office is also attempting to locate Debrodiste Mau Slabbert, whose last known location was near the Somerset West police station. Anyone with information is urged to contact social worker Tami Lee Hartogh on 021 852 3126 or info@childwelfarehelderberg.co.za.
Die Suid-Afrikaanse Polisiediens nooi die gemeenskappe van die Helderberg uit om aan te teken om ’n reservis in die polisie te word. ’n Reservis is ’n vrywillige pos wat die polisie help om misdaad te bestry.
Om ’n reservis te word, moet jy energiek en fisiek en geestelik fiks wees om minstens 16 ure per maand vrywillige diens te verrig. Jy moet ook in besit van ’n matrieksertifikaart wees, ’n skoon
Kom word ’nreservis
misdaadrekord hê en geen sigbare tatoeëermerke nie. Intekening vir die Macassar-polisie sal Woensdag (26 Maart) tussen 10:00 en 12:00 by Shoprite Macassar se parkering op die hoek van Hospitaal- en Berghstraat plaasvind. Later dieselfde dag sal intekening vir die
Somerset-Wes-polisie by Greyvillepark, Victoriapark, in Somerset-Wes plaasvind. Tydens die intekening van nuwe reserviste sal ’n straat-imbizo by Greyvillepark in Victoriapark plaasvind. Inwoners van Victoriapark, Lourensiapark, Helderzicht en Paardevlei word uitge-
nooi om hul bekommernisse van die gemeenskap met die Somerset-Wes-polisie te kom opper. Die Macassar-polisie se jeug het Saterdag 22 Maart ’n gebedsaamtrek gehou. Dit was om te bid oor misdaad en armoede in Macassar.
As jy belangstel en meer inligting wil hê, kan jy AO Riley Whitley van die Somerset-Wes-polisie by 0824112703 of AO Desmond Endley vir die Macassar-polsie by 0218577100 kontak.
I do find it rather amazing that, in spite of its beinga renewable product, the City of Cape Town cannot obtain any tarmac material with which to repair the numerous road crossings that have been damaged since last winter. What makes it even more remarkable is that several of the crossings have been refilled with gravel several times, presumably after numerous complaints from road users who have encountered these traps. Come on, City, you can do better! After all, winter willbe upon us soon enough, thenyou won’t be able to do repairs.
Bumpily yours,
SABINE BARING-GOULD EMAIL
Zahid Badroodien, Mayoral Committee member for Water and Sanitation, responds: The City acknowledges residents’ frustration regarding road reinstatements and sincerely apologises for the delays. We are actively addressing this challenge and appreciate the patience of affected communities. The reinstatement of roads after water and sanitation maintenance is a large-scale operation that requires coordination across multiple departments. The City previouslyfaced significant delays due to limited tenders, overlapping responsibilities and constrained internal
resources. To address this, the Water and Sanitation Directorate has taken full responsibility for reinstatements and is rolling a new approach out.
Since October 2024 work packages have been awarded to external service providers every four to five weeks to improve turnaround times. The City’s Region 2, which includes Somerset West and is the first phase of this initiative, resulted in more than 1 000 m² of reinstatements completed. Recognising this is not enough, the next phase has been expanded to 3 135 m², coveringMacassar, Firgrove, Somerset West, Strand and Gordon’s Bay. Work is scheduled to commence in early March, with detailed lists of affected areas to be shared with the subcouncil in an upcomingmeeting.
The City has also secured its reinstatement budget by ring-fencing R55 million for the 2024-’25 financial year to ensure both internal teams and external contractors can accelerate the pace of work.
While the City understands the urgency of these repairs, we assure residents that we are doing everything possible to improve service delivery. We remain committed toaddressing the backlog and will continue to refine our processes to ensure faster, more efficient reinstatements.
How to change the mindsets oferrant property owners
Every week I walk past a few properties in our neighbourhood that are so dilapidated and unkempt that they look unfit for human habitation.
All of them are occupied by owners who either inherited the property or bought it from previous owners.
By contrast, there are properties that are pristine and beautiful next to these dilapidated properties.
These owners are all hardworking people who are doing their best to keep their homes and yards, and even the munic-
ipal pavements, up to an acceptable level of decency.
But when Mr B and his partner sit on the pavement on crates in front of their dilapidated house and yard, with bottles of beer in both their hands and some empty bottles lying at their feet, drinking and loudly shouting meaningless comments to passersby, it brings the bitter taste of resentment in you to the fore.
And one wonders, could the money spent on alcohol, cigarettes and drugs not be used to keep the appearance of their
properties up to acceptable standards?
The rumour mill in this small community has it that most of these derelict property owners have some form of employment and income, but they seem to prefer spending their hardearned money on meaningless hedonistic activities that are detrimental to their well-being. How do communities address these issues? Do we even have a right to judge these people for their total disdain of propriety?
EMMY HOLLIDAY, SOMERSET WEST
Show furry friends some heart – helpAWS
For over seven decades the Animal Welfare Society (AWS) Helderberg has provided veterinary services for needy animals and their owners in Somerset West, Strand and Gordon’s Bay.
The organisation also currently operates daily mobile clinics in Macassar, Nomzamo, Tarentaal Plaas (Broadlands Village), Sir Lowry’s Pass, Grabouw and Eerste River.
Our core mandate is to rescue, rehabilitate and rehome abandoned or unwanted animals, reunite lost pets with their owners and treat animals whose indigent owners cannot afford private vetfees. Although our focus is mainly on domestic pets, we also take in indigenous reptiles, birds, marine life and wild mammals. These are given emergency treatment and passed on to Nature Conservation or other relevant rescue organisations.
Notwithstanding our limited human and financial resources, we try to educate owners, particularly children, in optimal pet care and management through talks to school groups andengagement with other community organisations. Education is vital to changing mindset and often ingrained misinformation.
Our daily mobile clinic offers primary care to needy animals whose owners cannot bring them to the clinic. Sick and injured animals are taken for treatment and, if not claimed, for placement in approved homes. Our staff respond to emergency calls and rescue animals in distress daily. This service continues after hours in conjunction with sister animal welfare agencies like the Cape of Good Hope SPCA.
Our charity shop, the Jumble Inn, is wholly dependent on donations of second-hand as well as new and unwanted goods. It provides a welcome source of income towards the enormous expens-
es involved in running the work of the AWS. We accept clothing, household goods, books, jewellery, paintings, linen, appliances, bric-a-brac and valuable antiques for our varied clientele – from bargain hunters to collectors.
We have a fully-fledged hospital with a full-time veterinary surgeon and vet nurse at the kennels and our walk-in clinic handles an average of 30 consultations daily. The hospital can cope with most surgical procedures and the clinical treatment for serious diseases like parvovirus.
Unfortunately many pet owners can’t or won’t pay veterinary costs, which leaves the AWS with ongoing heavy medical bills.
We also partner with private veterinarians who offer reduced rates, but we are often unable to recover these costs from pet owners.
We also work closely with other rescue organisations in terms of mass sterili-
sation days. In times of crisis, such as floods and fires, we take in animals from other welfare societies or those rescued by members of the public.
From period 1 April 2023 to 31 March 2024, 2 635 strays and surrenders (1 888 dogs and 747 cats) arrived at the AWS. In the same period, 263 dogs and 41 cats were reunited with their owners, and 554 dogs and 288 cats were adopted.
On the veterinary front during this period, 2 078 steralisations were done, 88 dental procedures were completed, 615 other “stitch-ups” were necessary, 12 orthopaedic cases were handled, and 116 surgeries were referred elsewhere.
A total of 2 909 vet cases were dealth with at AWS Helderberg, while 5 796 primary vaccinations were administered per mobile clinic.
We don’t believe in burdening other welfare organisations and take full responsibility for the care of all admissions. Unfortunately several so-called “no-kill” shelters refuse to accept animals so badly compromised that euthanasia is the only humane response and they inevitably end up with us – along with the costs and the enormous emotional burden for the staff involved in putting down animals.
As we receive no provincial or government funding, we are entirely dependent on the generosity of the public in the form of monetary donations, bequests, small grants-in-aid, our own fundraising and donations in kind to the Jumble Inn. In the current straitened economic circumstances, we would be deeply grateful for any assistance to ensure that our doors remain open.
To donate, contact the AWS head office in Somerset West on 021 852 2268, the kennels and clinic in Gordon’s Bay on 021 856 0597, email info@awshelderberg. co.za or visit www.awshelderberg.co.za.
I am writing to inquire about the possibility of a follow-up article concerning the tragic loss of Jayden Smith at a day-care facility in Strand (“Kleuter sterf in sy slaap by skool,” DistrictMail & Helderberg Gazette, 5 February).
The matter has deeply consumed me, particularly as a mother of three, my youngest child just 14 months old. The fact that Jayden attended the same school as my children before his transfer to the creche where he lost his life weighs heavily on my mind.
It is crucial for me to understand what measures will be implemented from now on. This is the second child fatality to occur at this facility, under similar circumstances, if anything highlighting an urgent need for inquiries into the school’s safety protocols and so on.
It has been two months since this tragedy, yet no communication has been issued by the school owner on what transpired. While there may not be a legal obligation to disclose such information, it would be expected from an ethical standpoint.
Suffice to say, the decision was made to withdraw my godchild from that school immediately on learning of these events.
ANNIKA STALEWSKI, EMAIL
Millicent Merton, spokesperson for the provincial education department, responds: “The facility is currently not registered with the department. A registration process is underway, the facility having to comply with all the necessary measures in terms of the relevant legislation and municipal requirements.”
Nino Schurter and Filippo Colombo of Scott-Sram MTB Racing won the 2025 Absa Cape Epic at Lourensford Wine Estate in Somerset West on Sunday (23 March).
The win is Schurter’s third Absa Cape Epic title, while Colombo claimed the crown at his first attempt.
In the Aramex UCI women’s category, Annika Langvad claimed her sixth Absa Cape Epic title and teammate Sofia Gomez Villafana (Toyota Specialized) her second, as the well-matched duo controlled the race from prologue to final pedal stroke over the finish line at LourensfordWine Estate.
Langvad’s sixth Absa Cape Epic title –she has competed at the event six times and won every time – makes her the most successful rider in the history of the race, surpassing the five titles shared by Karl Platt and Christoph Sauser. Even more remarkable, Langvad retired from the sport to have a child and has been working full-time as a dentist only to come roaring back to racing at this year’s Absa Cape Epic alongside a committed and composed Gomez Villafane.
“This week has just been crazy,” said Langvad. “Our week did not really go to plan and after crashing earlier in the race, I have been in a lot of pain. Sofia has just been the most amazing partner, but I have not been having fun out there. Winning is amazing, though. I gave birth seven months ago. I didn’t ride my bike for years. People think I am some superhuman cyclist. But this week has been very hard. I am tired now. I just want to lie down.”
Gomez Villafane was full of praise for her partner. “Annika has been suffering in silence since that crash. I don’t think
I could have done what she has done this week, and it’s been my honour to be her partner and help her get that sixth title. I’m excited to get the title back too! After getting third for two years in a row, I wanted a partner that was strong enough to do this – they gave me the best one possible.”
A shortened Stage 7 Grand Finale –due to severe overnight weather affecting the route – was won by Monica Yuliana Calderon Martinez and Tessa Kortekaas (Cannondale ISB Sport).
The pair surged late in this year’s event and after two consecutive stage wins, now leave the Absa Cape Epic wondering what might have been.
“Winning today and yesterday makes up for all the bad stuff earlier in the week,” said Kortekaas. “We raced hard from the start today and felt really good, so we are super happy with the last two days.”
In the UCI men’s category, Lucas Braidot and Simone Avondetto (Wilier-Vittoria) had it all to do on the 41 km shortened stage to close the 32-second gap on overall leaders Scott-Sram MTB Racing. Their efforts throughout the week finally caught up with them, though, and when Georg Egger and Lukas Baum (Orbea Leatt Speed Company) upped the pace at the front on the Grand Finale, it was only Schurter and Colombo who could respond.
Egger and Baum raced well on the closing kilometres to claim a stage win, with Schurter and Baum rolling over the line in second place a few seconds behind the Grand Finale winners.
“It’s a little bonus to win today and makes us feel good to leave the event with a stage win,” said Baum. “We knew if we raced hard from the start today we could split the field and potentially get the win. We just went for it and got the reward.”
Nino Schurter, who last won the Absa Cape Epic in 2019 riding with Lars Forster, was delighted to claim his third crown. “That was hard racing all week and it carried on into the final day,” said Schurter.
“This is a very sweet victory. Going into the Grand Finale we found we were able to pace ourselves well and it all worked out for us on the day. It’s a very different type of racing to World Cup racing but winning here is always a career highlight. The team dynamic makes it so interesting and when you get the right partner it’s very satisfying.”
Colombo, who looked exhausted as he crossed the line, simply added, “To be honest, it’s just a relief that it’s over! We have been through so much this week, so winning now is very special.”
SPORT
Woensdag,26Maart2025
UnbeatenMCC promoted
Riverside Oval in Macassarwitnessed a dramatic end to the WesternProvince Cricket Association (WPCA) Second Division 2024-’25 season on Saturday 22 March when Macassar Cricket Club (MCC) hosted Northpine Cricket Club.
Despite a rain-affected match, MCC’s dominant season culminated in them being crowned league champions and earning promotion to the First Division D for the 2025-’26 season.
The day began with delays as a damp pitch pushed the start time to 13:30.
Northpine CC won the toss and elected to field, a decision that initially paid dividends. MCC’s batsmen faced a torrid time against the Northpine opening bowlers, enduring several body blows on the challenging surface.
The first wicket fell in the third over with the score at 15/1, and was quickly followed by another at 33/3 in the seventh over, when
Peter Samuels was caught for 9 runs.
Veteran Quinton Bowman and Thomas Kemp then steadied the ship, forging a crucial 63-run partnership for the third wicket. Bowman played a masterful innings, defying the difficult conditions to score a well-crafted 56 runs before being dismissed with the score on 96/3 after 24 overs.
Kemp followed shortly after, caught for a valuable 36 runs, bringing the score to 122/4 after 28 overs. Macassar struggled to maintain momentum and, with another rain interruption, were eventually bowled out for 146 in 35 overs.
In response, MCC’s bowlers came out firing. Celenski van Graan led the charge with a devastating spell of 3/29 in eight overs. He was well supported by Robin Pretorius (1/23), Morten Jantjies (1/16) and Damian Machelm (1/31).
Northpine found themselves struggling on 113/6 after 32 overs when a heavy
Best Second Division team
downpour halted play, with eight overs remaining. The match was subsequently abandoned and Macassar awarded the win due to a superior run-rate to conclude their campaign undefeated, boast-
ing an impressive 22 league victories. This dominant performance secured their place as the WPCA Second Division champions and earned them a well-deserved promotion.
