DistrictMail & Helderberg Gazette E-Edition - 8 January 2025
Additional burial sites opened in SLP
The City of Cape Town’s Recreation and Parks Department has officially opened an extension at Sir Lowry’s Pass Cemetery, providing 544 additional burial spaces.
The new section became operational last month (December).
Planning for the extension at the local cemetery began in August 2022, in a bid to address the need for burial spaces across the metropole after the Covid-19 pandemic.
The project overcame several challenges including securing land-use approval in November 2023 and addressing environmental conditions, such as the removal of aging stone pine trees to accommodate the additional burial spaces.
To maximise capacity in the new extension, the burial spaces have been designed as berm graves, allowing only vertical headstones or scrolls.
This efficient layout of the newly established section ensures optimal use of available space, while maintaining a dignified community environment.
Previously, the cemetery primarily facilitated the reopening of private family graves.
Although the extension allows for new burials, the
Recreation and Parks Department has limited burials in the section to three per day to ensure operations run smoothly.
The City is committed to addressing burial-space challenges in the metropole.
Other projects, such as the Kuils River Cemetery expansion, are currently underway, with environmental authorisation granted last month and the land-use application currently in progress.
“The opening of the extension at Sir Lowry’s Pass Cemetery is an important step towards addressing the area’s burial space challenges,” said Patricia van der Ross, Mayoral Committee member for Community Services and Health.
“The City remains committed to providing dignified and accessible burial options. We would like to encourage residents to plan ahead with their undertakers and consider weekday burials to reduce possible backlogs on applications for weekend bookings.”
Bookings for burials in the new section must adhere to standard procedures and comply with the City’s regulations for berm grave designs.
Rebuilding after infernos
Barend J Williams
Relief efforts are in full swing in two Strand communities as locals and organisations rally behind victims of two devastating fires that left more than 220 people homeless and claimed the life of a 30-year-old man during the festive season.
The first blaze occurred in Rusthof on Friday 20 December, destroying five structures and leaving 22 people homeless (“Kopersmeltery glo die rede dat drie families van Rusthof nou dakloos is”, DistrictMail & Helderberg Gazette/Netwerk24, 20 December 2024).
The fire allegedly started when a resident melted copper and left the inferno it unattended.
“The cause is still under investigation, but no formal case has been opened yet,” said Strand police spokesperson Warrant Officer Nico Beukes.
Just four days later, on Christmas Eve (Tuesday 24 December), a second fire swept through the Wag ’n Bietjie informal settlement in Nomzamo. The blaze destroyed 64 structures, displaced about 200 people and claimed the life of a 30-year-old man.
The inferno, fanned by strong winds, started around 01:00 and was extinguished by 05:30 (“Nomzamo fire leaves many homeless on Christmas Eve”, DistrictMail & Helderberg Gazette/News24, 24 December 2024).
In true community and festive spirit, the community of Strand quickly rallied behind the affected fire victims.
In Rusthof, local organisation Strand Patrol led efforts to collect donations, managing to fill four bakkies, a trailer and a car with essentials for the destitute families.
“We emptied our storage to help the families in need,” said KC Gericke of Strand Patrol.
In Wag ’n Bietjie, humanitarian organisation Gift of the Givers sprang into action, providing hot meals, clean drinking water, personal hygiene items and baby care packs for those affected by the blaze.
“On Christmas Day, Santa visited the area to distribute party packets to the children and a special meal was prepared for the elders,” said Ali Sablay, project manager at Gift of the Givers.
The national Department of Human Settlements also delivered building materials to the victims of the Wag ’n Bietjie
informal settlement on Tuesday 31 December, in a bid to assist the fire victims of their rebuilding efforts.
“It’s encouraging to see the department stepping in to help the displaced families,” said Ward 86 councillor Xolani Diniso.
Despite the significant relief efforts, Diniso emphasised that there is still more to be done.
“We urge the community to donate school uniforms and shoes for the children, as many lost everything in the fires,” he said.
Lwandle police are still investigating the cause of the fire. “There have been no further developments in the case and no arrests have been made,” said police spokesperson Sergeant Mthokozisi Gama.
While the community has shown remarkable solidarity, ward councillors and relief organisations continue to appeal for ongoing support to help the affected families rebuild their lives.
Rebuilding efforts are underway in Wag ’n Bietjie informal settlement in Nomzamo after a fire destroyed more than 64 informal structures on Christmas Eve.
Couple relay their African odyssey
Yaseen Gaffar
Laura Mcleod and Morgan Renard, a French couple, have just concluded an epic two-year overland journey across Africa in their custom-built 4x4 vehicle, the Paj Wagon.
After meticulously constructing the vehicle over four years, the pair embarked on a 40 000 km odyssey from France to Cape Town, traversing 30 000 km of challenging dirt roads.
Mcleod (53) is a former Somerset West local, attending local schools including Beaumont Primary back in the 1980s.
“Why build a car from scratch?” asked Renard, a 66-year-old retired blacksmith. “Budget was limited, and after travelling for many years I couldn’t find a 4x4 that met my needs. They were all too expensive, so I built a monster!”
The Paj Wagon was designed for extreme off-roading, equipped with a hydraulic lift for easy maintenance, a comfortable living space with a bed, shower, kitchen and ample storage, not to mention a robust fuel system.
“At the start, building it was a challenge,” Renard admitted. “I wanted to tackle the toughest dirt tracks in Africa without relying on external assistance. By building it myself I knew every inch of the vehicle and could fix any mechanical issues that arose.”
The journey, however, was not without its obstacles. “We faced numerous challenges,” Mcleod shared. “A broken front axle, a lost wheel and even a serious illness as I contracted typhoid and malaria.”
Despite these setbacks the couple persevered. And after recovering from her illness, Mcleod returned to continue
“We encountered incredible people and Morgan even had a close encounter with an elephant...
her journey.
“The rewarding moments were the encounters with incredible people in remote areas,” she recalled. “We met people who had never seen white people before. Their hospitality in the remote mountains of West Africa was truly humbling.”
The couple’s journey also provided valuable insights into African life.
“Living in the car, you truly understand the level of poverty in many parts of Africa,” Mcleod observed. “It made us appreciate what we have and to be mindful of our spending.”
The couple took numerous safety precautions, including carrying pepper spray and a panga. “There’s a lot of bribery and corruption,” Mcleod warned, recounting their experiences with police stops in Nigeria and up to 350 bribery solicitations. “We had to find ways to navigate those situations.”
Reflecting on their adventure, Renard offered this advice to aspiring overland travellers: “Prepare your vehicle meticulously, stay calm when problems arise, communicate with the people you meet, and be polite. There are no problems, only solutions. Also, I think you have to be a little crazy!”
Mcleod added: “Africa is a breathtakingly beautiful continent with
a rich history. We encountered incredible people and Morgan even had a close encounter with an elephant, which charged him!”
The couple, who spent a month with family in Somerset West, is now planning their next adventure, their return trip.
They plan to venture a different route through Africa and are considering a journey to Ethiopia and Sudan.
Whatever their future plans, their journey in the Paj Wagon will undoubtedly remain a highlight of their lives.
“It’s tough,” Mcleod warned, “After this journey is over, I’m not sure if I‘ll do it again.”
Morgan Renard and Laura Mcleod with their Paj Wagon in the background.
An Identikidz staff member ensures that a toddler is tagged, with permission of her mother, on one of the local beaches this festive season.
Many tagged on beaches
The Identikidz project, aimed at ensuring the safety of children at local beaches, will run until this Sunday (12 January).
The annual project, coordinated by the City of Cape Town’s Community, Arts and Culture Development Department, was launched on Saturday 14 December and continues to grow in popularity. A comparison with the previous festive season shows that the number of children tagged increased by nearly 4 000, from 85 916 to 89 689 by Thursday 2 January.
The project’s statistics also shows that Strand Beach was one of the busiest beaches in the metropole this holidays, with a total of 3 183 children tagged at the local beach on Christmas and Boxing Day and 2 907 on New Year’s Day and Thursday 2 January.
The project sees staff at the Identikidz registration desks at beaches register children and issue them with an identification tag or wristband with permission from parents or guardians. Should the child be lost or displaced on
that day, staff will then assist with the reunification and work closely with the provincial Department of Social Development, the City’s law enforcement agencies and the police to ensure the safety and reunification of a lost or displaced child with their family.
On Christmas and Boxing Day 1 815 children were tagged at Harmony Park and 1 486 at Gordon’s Bay, while 1 210
and 1 581 children were respectively tagged at these beaches on 1 and 2 January.
To date, Identikidz staff have reunited 256 children with their families at all 16 participating Cape Town beaches, while 11 children were handed over to the provincial Department of Social Development on New Year’s Day, as their caregivers could not be contacted.
Surf cameras aid in rescuing teenagers
The quick action of Strand lifeguards and the advanced technology of a beach safety camera of the National Sea Rescue Institute (NSRI) played a crucial role in saving the life of a 14year-old boy and assisting two of his friends caught in a rip current on Friday 27 December.
The incident unfolded at Strand Beach just after 13:00, when a group of six teenagers ventured outside the flagged swimming area.
One of the boys was apparently swept away by a rip current,
Misdaad
. Beamptes van die Strand-polisie het Saterdag (4 Januarie) vinnig opgetree toe hulle ’n verdagte op klagtes van die besit van ’n ongelisensieerde vuurwapen en ammunisie vasgetrek het. Die vuurwapen is glo in die naam van iemand wat in 2012 oorlede is, geregistreer. Beamptes het omstreeks 21:35 ’n voertuig by ’n bekende dwelm-verkoopplek in Strand gesien. Toe die bestuurder probeer vlug, het die polisie die voertuig agtervolg en hom in Boundary-weg voorgekeer. Tydens die deursoeking van die voertuig is ’n skaal met dagga asook ’n donkerbruin vuurwapen en 42 stuks ammunisie in ’n boks by die
prompting two of his friends to attempt a rescue.
Lezhae Snyders, an NSRI beachsafety camera operator at the NSRI Emergency Operations Centre (EOC), noted the imminent danger and immediately alerted the City of Cape Town’s lifeguards at Strand Beach.
Within minutes lifeguards Caydon Neuman and Jubilee van Jaarsveld, both equipped with torpedo buoys, and Sthembela Khawula, using a rescue board, arrived at the scene. By 13:04, they had reached the
bestuurdersitplek gevind. Die polisie ondersoek tans die saak. . ’n Voorval waar ’n 22-jarige man in sy voet geskiet is, word deur die Strand-polisie ondersoek. Die skietery het helder oordag op Saterdag 21 Desember plaasgevind toe die slagoffer voor sy huis in Sercor-Laan in Strand was. Twee mans, wat hy vermoedelik geken het, het hom omstreeks 12:00 genader. Een van die verdagtes het ’n vuurwapen uitgehaal en twee skote afgevuur. Die slagoffer is deur een van die koeëls in sy linkervoet getref. Die polisie meen die voorval kan moontlik met bendeverwante aktiwiteite verbind word. Niemand is nog in hegtenis geneem nie en die ondersoek duur voort. . Isadore Visagie (21) is op Donderdag 26 Desember op die hoek van Bosduifstraat en Stork-weg in Strand noodlottig in die bors
distressed teenagers, ensuring they stayed afloat before helping them safely to shore. Their swift and coordinated efforts prevented what could have been a devastating tragedy.
The NSRI praised the lifeguards and its own EOC team for their prompt response and professional execution of the rescue.
The incident underscores the importance of safety measures such as the NSRI’s beach safety cameras and the vital role of lifeguards in protecting beachgoers.
geskiet. Beamptes het ná ’n noodoproep omstreeks 13:10 op die toneel aangekom, waar Visagie reeds deur paramedici dood verklaar is. Volgens die polisie word daar beweer dat ’n minibustaxi verbygery het toe ’n passasier twee skote op die slagoffer afgevuur het. Die ondersoek dui daarop dat die moord bendeverwant is. Visagie was glo ’n lid van die Inja-bende, terwyl die verdagtes verbind word met die Fancy Boys. Een persoon is reeds in hegtenis geneem en die ondersoek duur voort.
. ’n Mesaanval het die lewe van ’n 19-jarige man op Maandag 16 Desember op die hoek van Abattoir-straat en Boundary-weg geëis. Polisiebeamptes het omstreeks 17:45 op ’n noodoproep gereageer en met hul aankoms is die slagoffer met drie steekwonde aangetref –een in die bors en twee in sy buik. Nooddienste op die toneel het hom dood
A busy week for local NSRI
The duty crew of the National Sea Rescue Institute’s Kleinmond station was called into action following three incidents in Hangklip and Betty’s Bay over the last week.
According to Schalk Boonzaaier, NSRI Kleinmond station commander, local police are monitoring the situation after eyewitnesses reported a male diver having gone missing at sea in the vicinity of the Kleinmond tidal pool on Saturday (4 January).
“The NSRI Kleinmond duty crew was activated at 17:22, following eyewitness reports of a diver appearing to be in difficulties along the rocks on the shoreline at Kleinmond tidal pool on the Bruggie,” he explained, adding that NSRI rescue swimmers, Overstrand Law Enforcement, provincial government Health EMS and the EMS/AMS Skymed rescue helicopter responded to the call.
“Further reports said the diver appeared to be in difficulty while emergency resources were responding. Despite an extensive air, sea and shoreline search, no signs of the diver were found. There remain no reports of any person missing or overdue that may be related to this case.”
During the incident NSRI Kleinmond received a second call from the wife of a man who had gone diving in the vicinity of Maasbaai, Hangklip, but who had not returned home as scheduled.
“While investigating this call at Hangklip, the wife alerted NSRI reporting that her husband had returned home safely and no assistance was required,” Bezuidenhout said.
Meanwhile, NSRI Kleinmond duty crew were activated after reports of a father-and-daughter duo in difficulties on a canoe offshore at Jocks Bay, Betty’s Bay at 14:17 on Wednesday 1 January. “It appears the father and daughter were in the water after they had apparently been washed off their canoe while fishing,” the NSRI station commander said.
“An eyewitness, a young man who had indicated his intentions to join NSRI Kleinmond, had visuals of the two casualties and he remained in communication with our responding rescue resources. Responding, we requested the local good Samaritan indicate and shout to the casualties to swim away from the rocky shoreline.”
An NSRI Kleinmond rescue craft was launched into sea conditions with 2 m swells and, with strong gusting winds, the NSRI rescue crew reached the casualties offshore and they were brought on the vessel. “They were brought to the beach at Jocks Bay, where they were assessed. and showed no signs of injury.”
V Anyone with information that can assist police with the missing-diver case is asked to contact Kleinmond police on 028 271 8200 or 028 271 8202.
verklaar. ’n Verdagte is in verband met die moord in hegtenis geneem en die ondersoek duur voort. . Die Maitland-polisie se vliegspan het die afgelope Donderdag (2 Januarie) twee verdagtes – onderskeidelik 41 en 31 jaar oud –in hegtenis geneem in verband met klagtes van ontvoering en verkragting, wat na bewering in November 2024 in Grabouw plaasgevind het. Die polisie het op inligting gereageer oor twee mans in die Bellvillegebied in ’n Volkswagen T-Cross gery het. Nadat die voertuig voorgekeer is, het beamptes dit deursoek en ’n 9-mm-pistool met 59 stuks ammunisie gevind. Die vuurwapen word vermoedelik met die misdaad verbind. Die verdagtes het reeds op aanklagte van ontvoering en verkragting in die hof verskyn.
The municipality will conclude its Identikidz festive season project this weekend. Photos: City of Cape Town
Anyone for a festive cuppa?
Residents of Lancelot and Camelot independent living retirement facilities in Somerset West were treated to a festive and delectable Christmas tea, when the Helderberg Rotary Anns spread some early festive cheer. Rotary Anns (from left) Pauline Brinkworth, Gayl Boon and Mieke MacDonald were on
to the residents of the Heldeberg Society for the
Residents who joined in the early fun also joined in some melodious singing and friendly banter on the joyous occassion. Among the residents were Cecelia Rhode (left) and Alta Steenkamp, who revelled in the chance to enjoy the afternoon of fun.
Newborns bring joy!
A joyous and exciting festive season was on the cards for the families of 273 babies who made their long-awaited arrival on Christmas and New Year’s Day at health facilities in the Western Cape.
A total of 172 cherubs were born at facilities of the provincial Department of Health and Wellness on Christmas Day, while 101 newborns rung in the New Year at provincial facilities on Wednesday 1 January.
Among these were babies born at Helderberg Hospital and Macassar Midwife Obstetrics Unit (MOU).
However, the department could not provide the exact number of newborns at the two local facilities at the time of going to print.
But it confirmed a beautiful baby girl was born to mom Maudy Tirivangani at Helderberg Hospital on Christmas Day.
The New Year also started on high note for a local mom, who gave birth to a healthy baby girl at Macassar MOU at 00:20, the second little one born in the province in 2025.
The baby girl weighed 2,89 kg at birth.
The department also announced the birth of three sets of twins in the province on 1 January, two sets born at Tygerberg Hospital and one set at Groote Schuur Hospital.
Remarkably, no babies were born at Mediclinic Vergelegen on either days, while Busamed Paardevlei Private Hospital no
longer has a maternity unit. Mireille Wenger, provincial minister for Health and Wellness, congratulated the parents of all the province’s newborns, reminding them to embrace the services offered at local clinics to support babies’ early development, especially for the first 1 000 days of their lives.
Clinic visits provide access to essential services such as immunisations, health education and regular check-ups. These services are designed to help families start well, ensuring their children have the strongest foundation for a bright future.
“The birth of a child is a moment of great joy and hope, symbolising new beginnings. We celebrate with families welcoming their little ones today and urge parents to access the support available to them through our clinics,” Wenger said.
“Together we can ensure every child starts life with the care they deserve. Thank you to our health-care workers for being the backbone of our health system.”
Italy, SA ‘trade’ sword, assegaai to underscore naval collaboration
Italian
awarded the South African
a floating
adviser representing the
awarded annually to the best naval student at the college. Historically, the sword was presented to junior officers on Italian Navy vessels, reflecting a commitment to training and excellence in the Officer Corps. This gesture underscores the ongoing relationship and shared investment in naval education. At the handover (from left) were Surface Warfare Officer Graham Grebe (master at arms of the South African Naval College), Reverend Trevor Links (chaplain of South African Naval College), Naval Commander Maphehle Tshesane (media liaison officer), Naval Commander Andrew Pieterse (executive officer of the South African Naval College), Rear Admiral Musawenkosi Nkomonde (chief director of Maritime Strategy), Captain Judy Rustin-Patrick (commanding officer of the South African Naval College), Colonel Flaviano Palazzi (Italian Defence Attaché), Rear Admiral Junior Grade Sello Malepe (director of fleet human resources), Giulio Mignacca (consul of Italy in Cape Town) and Marcello Mastroianni (Italian Defence assistant). Photos: Barend J Williams
This special Christmas delivery, a baby girl, brought much delight to mom Maudy Tirivangani at Helderberg Hospital this festive season.
The
Embassy, through its Defence Attaché (a military
country at the embassy),
Naval College in Gordon’s Bay the Spadino D’Onore (Sword of Honour) on Tuesday 10 December. The ceremonial sword, a symbol of collaboration between the Italian and South African navies, will serve as
trophy
A Naval salute performed during the ceremony for the handover of the Spadino D’Onore at the SA Naval College last month.
Capt Judy Rustin-Patrick presents Colonel Flaviano Palazzi with an umbumbuluzo (shield), an iklwa (stabbing spear), and an iwisa (knobkerrie).
RADM Musawenkosi Nkomonde explains the effectiveness of Shaka Zulu’s use of the iklwa (stabbing spear) to Colonel Flaviano Palazzi and Marcello Mastroianni.
hand to serve delicious treats
Aged’s housing estates.
Musiekstudente ‘moet gou inskryf’
Die internasionale Stellenboschkamermusiekfees (SIKMF) het in 2004 tot stand gekom en is die geesteskind van prof. Nina Schumann, wat as artistieke direkteur van die fees optree.
Buiten die twee Covid-19-jare het die fees sedertdien elke jaar in Julie plaasgevind. Dit is die enigste fees van sy soort in Afrika en trek jaarliks omtrent 300 studente. Die internasionaal bekende kunstenaars wat verlede jaar by die fees opgetree het, was van 17 verskillende lande.
Schumann is reeds hard aan die werk om die verskillende konsertprogramme vir die 20ste SIKMF op te stel, wat vanjaar van Vrydag 4 tot Sondag 13 Julie plaasvind. Die feesdirekteur, Peter Martens, wat van die begin af by die reëling van die fees betrokke is, sê: “Hoewel ’n aantal uitstaande nuwe kunstenaars op die program sal wees, sal die personeel hierdie keer hoofsaaklik uit kunstenaars bestaan wat oor die afgelope 20 jaar belangrike bydraes tot die fees gelewer het.”
Aangesien die 20ste SIKMF sonder twyfel weer ’n hoogtepunt sal wees, word
Die 20ste weergawe van die gewilde internasionale Stellenboschkamermusiekfees word in Julie aangebied. Foto: Tiffany Schultz Photography studente aangeraai om vroeg aan te meld. Registrasie is nou oop en deelnemers wat teen Vrydag 14 Februarie aansoek doen kom, vir ’n aansienlike afslag in aanmerking.
“Ons is baie trots op die bydrae wat ons tot transformasie by die Universiteit Stellenbosch maak.
Ons het die laaste 20 jaar ’n lang pad gestap. Die afgelope twee jaar was die meeste van ons studente uit voorheen benadeelde gemeenskappe,” sê Martens. “In 2025 sal ons meer as ’n halfmiljoen rand vir beurse beskikbaar stel.”
Beurse sal op grond van
finansiële behoeftigheid toegeken word, ongeag die vaardigheidsvlak van die student, op voorwaarde dat ’n minimum vlak reeds bereik is. Martens voeg by “beurse [sal] toegeken word in volgorde van aanvraag, daarom word behoeftige studente aangeraai om vroeg aan te meld”. Besonderhede oor die konserte word vroeg vanjaar bekendgemaak. Intussen word konsertbesoekers aangeraai om die webwerf www.sicmf.co.za dop te hou. V Voornemende studente kan aanmeld by https:// www.sicmf.co.za/online-entry/.
A trip around the world with saxophonist
Renowned saxophonist Andrew Young (pictured) will be welcomed back to The Drama Factory when he brings his latest stage offering, Rockin’ All Over the World, to the Strand entertainment venue. Throughout his illustrious career Young has mesmerised audiences across the globe with his soulful saxophone performances. Now he brings a unique musical experience, showcasing songs he has picked up from his performances in Europe, Asia, Africa, the Far East and the Caribbean. Paired with the talented Cape pianist Tony Drake, Young promises to create a memorable night for the audience on Friday 31 January at 19:30. Their collaboration will likely bring out the best in classic songs, making the music resonate deeply with both heart and soul. Tickets cost R250 (standard) and R220 (pensioners and students), and can be booked online at www.thedramafactory.co.za. For more information, contact The Drama Factory on 073 215 2290.
Jazzy vibes ring in the new year
Track Five, a beloved vocal jazz quintet from the Cape, marks an extraordinary milestone with Live in 2025, a special concert celebrating 30 remarkable years of delighting local audiences with their sound.
Featuring timeless classics such as “Over the Rainbow” and “Waltz for Debby”, aside from some Afrikaans surprises, the show highlights founder Gavin Fullard’s masterful arrangements. Adding to the magic, legendary Capetonian jazz pianist Ramon Alexander joins the line-up.
Local jazz lovers can see the quintet at The Drama Factory in Asla Business Park, Strand,
at 16:00 on Sunday 26 January.
Track Five has been an integral part of the Cape jazz scene over the years, renowned for their rich sound and inventive spirit. They comprise Danelle de Vries (soprano), Elizma Badenhorst (mezzo), Earl Maswabi (tenor), Arthur Pietersen (baritone) and Donal Slemon (bass).
Live in 2025 promises an extraordinary celebration of close-harmony jazz. The audience can expect a repertoire from heartfelt ballads to lively swing. V Tickets cost R220 (standard) and R160 (students and pensioners), and can be booked at www.thedramafactory.co.za.
Stuur gerus alle dagboek-inskrywings vir gemeenskapsgeleenthede en -vergaderings via e-pos na editor@districtmail.com voor 12:00 Maandae.
SATURDAY 11 JANUARY
) Somerset West: The COUNTRY CRAFT MARKET returns to Southey’s Vines at 186 Main Road, from 09:00 to 14:00 as well as Saturday 25 January. There will be a wide variety of quality hand-made clothing, arts and crafts available, each crafter selling their own wares. Refreshments are plentiful, with the chance to relax while listening to live music. Well-behaved pooches on leashes are very welcome. Free, safe parking behind the market venue. For enquiries, contact Lesley on 021 843 5002 or info@countrycraftmarket.org.
MAANDAG 13 JANUARIE
) Strand: Die CHRISTELIKE
AFHANKLIKHEIDSDIENS (CAD) oftewel Christians Against Drugs nooi mense wat probleme met middelafhanklikheid het, na hul byeenkoms om 19:00 in die kerksaal van die NG kerk Strand se Moedergemeente, op die hoek Birkenhead- en Faganstraat. Rig alle navrae aan Gerrit by 073 336 3119 of Werner by 082 826 0972.
SATURDAY 18 JANUARY
) Somerset West: The SOUTHEY’S CAR BOOT MARKET (formely known as the Southey’s Thrift & Secondhand Market) will be held, weather permitting, at 186 Main Road from 08:30 to 14:00. Join the Southey’s Thrift & Secondhand group on Facebook for updates on the exciting day of bargain-hunting for treasures. There will be more than 100 stalls to browse. To book a stall, contact Hayley via WhatsApp on 076 335 5116.
SUNDAY 19 JANUARY
) Somerset West: The HELDERBERG VILLAGE MUSIC SOCIETY will host a concert by ensemble Strelitzia at Talani Terrace at 16:00. The ensemble comprises Matthew Reid (clarinet), Jessica Bailey (cello) and Sue Patterson-Jones (piano). They’ll be performing stunning works by Brahms, Ravel, Poulenc, Schubert and Juon. Admission costs R130; book
your place online via Quicket.
SATURDAY 25 JANUARY
) Somerset West: ST PAUL’S CATHOLIC CHURCH will host its first charity book sale of the new year from 09:00 to noon. The need is great especially in January. There will be quality fiction, non-fiction and children’s books. Tea, coffee and cake will also be on sale. There will be card facilities available. Call Carole on 084 299 9023 for further details.
) Gordon’s Bay: HELDERBERG CHESS CLUB starts the new year with a tournament for primary school chess players at Gordon’s Bay Primary School. Prospective participants can register until Monday 20 January at R80 per person at https://tinyurl.com/HCC-PS-DEV-2025. There will be no registrations allowed on the day of event, which starts with the announcements at 07:45. For more details, visit the club’s Facebook page.
WEDNESDAY 29 JANUARY
) Strand: Steve Graham (above) will return to THE DRAMA FACTORY with his one-man show Monsters of Rock at 19:30. The show features him playing the biggest classic rock hits with a virtual Steve Graham Band, stunning video and visuals. It’s more than just a show; it’s an experience. The audience can expect high-energy songs, amazing guitar skills and a spectacular stage presence as Graham takes them on a journey through the history of rock music, from the ’60s to the ’90s, with songs by Pink Floyd, Meatloaf, Led Zeppelin, Queen, The Police, Dire Straits, Van Halen, Toto, Journey and many more. Tickets cost R200 (standard) and R180 (pensioners and students). Secure your seat by booking your ticket online at www.thedramafactory.co.za.
HOUSES TO LET 3270
Make donating blood your resolution for 2025
Gordon's Bay in cul de sac, two bedroom, one bathroom, garden, carport for two cars. Available 1 January R10 000 per month, R10 000 Deposit. Phone Johan 0824464913.
EMPLOYMENT
EMPLOYMENT WANTED 3670
I am looking for a job as a caregivier fassillitator companion. I come from a nursing background +- 20 yrs exp. Contact: Carin Stipp at 081 503 6394
BOOKKEEPER / ADMIN LADY REQUIRED
building rubble, garden, household refuse and any small loads and tree felling. Danie 082 337 9532 & WhatsApp.
Your tasks will include debtors / creditors plus general office / admin work as needed. Working hours Mon – Fri from 08h00 – 16h00 and every 2nd Sat 09h00 – 13h00 Must have at least 10 years’ active bookkeeping work experience. Knowledge of the Xero accounting system will be to your advantage. Salary on offer between R13,000- - R14,000- p/m depending on qualifications & experience. Company located at the Interchange Business Park (Close to Somerset Mall) please send CV to email: newapplications24@gmail com
An outstanding 148 664 units of blood were donated and 13 957 new blood donors were welcomed by the Western Cape Blood Service (WCBS) in 2024.
The service extended its heartfelt gratitude to all blood donors for their remarkable contributions. Every donation has made a profound impact on patients and their families.
The WCBS had a special “thank you” to donors during the December holidays, a busy, festive period. “We are incredibly grateful for their unwavering commitment,” said Michelle Vermeulen, head of marketing and public relations at WCBS. “Your generosity made a lifesaving difference.”
Looking ahead, the service has launched its campaign “Be Someone’s Type”, focused on expanding its donor
Assistente
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.
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base. Instead of traditional New Year’s resolutions, WCBS encourages donors or those considering their first donation to make blood donation a priority for 2025. If you are aged 16 to 75, weigh 50 kg or more, are in good general health and lead a safe sexual lifestyle, you should be able to donate. Donating blood is safe and painless, with only 475 ml drawn and replaced within 24 hours. Donors must eat a substantial meal within three to four hours before donation and to increase their fluid intake before, during and after donation. Blood donation takes 30 minutes, and you can donate blood every 56 days.
V For more details, visit www.wcbs.org.za, download the WCBS app, or send a WhatsApp message to 060 549 7244.
Nuwe Talent Gesoek
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
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.
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Touchies series ends on a high
A breathtaking final day of the Hot Summer of Touch Series played out at Stilbaai on Thursday 26 December.
The conditions were spectacular, the touch action was electric and the crowds were next-level, setting the tone for what many are calling the best beach touch rugby series in years.
Fifty-three teams registered on the day, with much to play for in all three competition sections. The mid-day high tide and red-hot temperatures did little to detract from the scintillating action on the sand.
The Pro semi-finals were always going to be tight games, with the top four on the log reaching the crucial stage. The Liberty Webb Touch team overcame Most Wanted by 1-0 to book their place in the final against their fierce rivals, Score Forward Legends, who overcame the MBN Warriors by the same margin in the second semi-final.
With the Legends having all to pay for, needing to win the Stilbaai leg to force a tie and share the overall title, the final didn’t disappoint. After taking a 2-0 lead, the Liberty boys looked to have done enough before the Legends staged a comeback and levelled the encounter (2-2).
It was however not enough, and the Liberty Webb Touch team scored a sudden-death try to eventually take both the Stilbaai and Pro series titles for the second year running.
World’s breakers to converge on the Cape
The Mother City will become the epicentre of the global breaking scene as it hosts the highly anticipated Fujifilm Instax Undisputed Masters for the first time on African soil.
The event, to be held at the V&A Waterfront on Saturday 18 January, brings breaking’s best together. The competition series was established in 2014 and has seen some of the most jawdropping events across the globe.
The Cape Town leg offers free entrance, and breaking battles are open to all ages, with open categories for solo men, women and crews, showcasing diversity and skill on the world stage.
Olympic gold medallist and breaking legend Phil Wizard will show his signature moves. Much is riding on the Cape Town event, the final one before the World Finals in Tokyo in March.
V The event starts with the open qualifier from 13:00 to 17:00, followed by the main event from 18:00 to 21:00.
The Struisbaai Warriors edged the Last Kings 2-1 to claim the spoils in the Challenger final and secure their place in the 2025 Pro Series.
Much credit must be given to this outfit, which joined the circuit as the Future Warriors many years ago and battled many obstacles to show that perseverance and hard work pays off.
The Last Kings also deserve special mention for pushing Struisbaai Warriors all the way.
The Preekstoel Cup was a fantastic success. It was decided to allow the “local” teams or teams that had not entered more than one event on the series to fight it out in their own section.
Much fun was had by all teams, and the ultimate winners of the day were the Young Guns, who defeated the Red Devils United by 4-0
After six gruelling legs, 1 500 km, 53 teams and 400 touch games, the 2024 Hot Summer of Touch was an event to remember.
“We’d like to thank all players, coaches, managers, supporters, crew, sponsors, management, referees and the chairperson and Western and Southern Cape Beach Touch Association for all the time, effort and resources put into this series,” the organisers of this series said.
“It takes a combined effort to get things working, and we look forward to building on this success in future.”
DE BEERS AFC AGM
No ce is hereby given that the De Beers AFC Annual General Mee ng will be held on Wednesday the 22nd of January 2025 at 19:00 hr. at the De Beers Club House.
Lacing up to equip children in need
The Press Council of South Africa is a voluntary, independent, co-regulatory body that aims to promote and develop ethical practice in journalism; promotes the adoption and adherence to those standards by South African print and online media and provides a quick and free complaints mechanism to the public.
The Press Council of SA has a vacancy for a full-time Executive Director who will be responsible for leading the organisation on a professional basis and will be accountable for all operational matters
The successful candidate will be employed for a period of five years, subject to renewal.
How to apply:
Your submission should consist of a covering letter of no more than a page and a curriculum vitae of no more than 5 pages Include the names and contact details of at least two referees
Your application must be sent to millicentg@ombudsman.org.za, who can be contacted on Tel: 011 484 3612.
Key responsibilities and duties:
Implement the strategic focus of the Press Council and promote the efficacy of its mediation and adjudication processes
Stakeholder management and lobbying: industry and regulatory bodies, government, Parliament, civil society and media houses
Work closely with the financial administrator and the Press Council’s Fincom to ensure financial compliance and oversight
Applicants must have:
• An understanding of the role and work of the Press Council as an independent co-regulatory body and the environment in which it operates.
• Sound knowledge of journalism and the media landscape, demonstrated by relevant experience and suitable qualifications
• A fair understanding of the legal system and a commitment to the Constitutional values of freedom of expression and media freedom and public service
• Experience in staff and office management, including communications, administration, fundraising and finances.
• An ability to think strategically, work independently, communicate effectively and conceptualise and manage projects thatwill promote the Press Council’s aims and objectives
Experience in external communications, stakeholder management and lobbying
Deadline for applications: 13 January 2025
The Liberty Webb touch team took both the Stilbaai and Pro Series titles for the second year running.
The Press Council of South Africa invites applications for the position of Executive Director
Helderberg Harriers hosted a Stationery Run in Somerset West during December on behalf of The Anna Foundation. The run, hosted by the local athletics club every year, helps raise donations for stationery for rural and underprivileged children. Pictured are the group of runners who supported the event.
PHOTO LEFT: A determined Leon Reeding, Heath Meadows, Frances Abrahams, John Hodson and Leo Mahachi showed they care as they supported the stationery run.
Mary-Ann Lutzeler, Sandy Clackett and Chris Crane were all smiles after crossing the finish line.
Resilience on display
35th Trans Agulhas Challenge
Yaseen Gaffar
Marc Gleed, the seasoned helmsman from the Helderberg, navigated his way to a hard-fought fifthplace finish in the modified class at the Trans Agulhas Challenge, further solidifying his legendary status in South Africa’s most gruelling inflatable boat race.
The 2024 event, held from Saturday 28 to Tuesday 31 December, marked Gleed’s 16th time tackling the 700 km coastal gauntlet, a testament to his unwavering passion for the high-octane sport.
Sponsored by Rusgenoot Transport, Gleed and his copilot, Jaco van Deventer, faced a formidable challenge in the 35th edition of the Trans Agulhas, sponsored by Six Gun Grill. The four-day race,
notorious for its unpredictable conditions, saw competitors battle treacherous seas from the picturesque Plettenberg Bay to the bustling Strand Beach.
Gleed and Van Deventer displayed remarkable resilience throughout the competition.
While the first three days saw them consistently claim fourth place in their class, the final leg to Strand proved to be a true test of their mettle.
Monstrous 3 m swells pounded the coastline, claiming 12 boats as casualties.
However, Gleed and Van Deventer, fuelled by their unwavering determination, navigated the treacherous waters with precision, ultimately securing a commendable fifth-place finish.
“You can’t win them all,” Gleed remarked with a wry smile, reflecting on the demanding race. “But the thrill
of the challenge keeps me coming back for more.”
He emphasised the importance of meticulous preparation, highlighting how his team scouted the race route during their annual Christmas camping trip, turning the event into a cherished family tradition.
Gleed’s passion for the sport extends beyond his own competitive pursuits. He is actively mentoring the next generation of racers, fostering the talents of the remarkable Engelbrecht sisters, Carla (16) and Carien (14).
Supported by Rusgenoot Transport, these young prodigies are already making waves in the world of inflatable boat racing. Carla, a seasoned competitor, has already copiloted the winning team at the 2023 Trans Agulhas and impressively showcased her skills in both world and national championships.
“These girls are fearless and incredibly talented,” Gleed
enthused. “They possess a natural affinity for the water and an unwavering determination that is truly inspiring.”
He expressed his pride in supporting their journey, highlighting their upcoming participation at the
Theewaterskloof race in February, when they will make history as the youngest women’s team in the world.
Raised along the rugged West Coast, the Engelbrecht sisters have a deep connection to the sea and their progress will be closely watched this year.
Marc Gleed and Jaco van Deventer celebrated a fifth place finish in the 2024 Trans Agulhas Challenge, held from Plettenberg Bay to Strand in December.
Sisters Carla and Carien Engelbrecht are rising stars in the sport of inflatable boat racing.
