Rea
Yaël Malgas
As the festive season draws closer provincial police commissioner, Lieutenant General Adv Thembisile Patekile, warned residents of Khayamandi to take heed when it comes to finances, especially when stokvels pay out.
Patekile visited Stellenbosch for the launch of the provincial police’s Safer Festive Season Operations launch last Thursday (23 October).
Officers from all 23 stations in the Cape Winelands police cluster gathered at the Khayamandi Sports Ground, where residents were promised “boots on the ground” this holiday season.
According to Patekile extortion and kidnapping is expected to be on the rise as “those who don’t have money, are looking to get money”
He had a stern warning for those looking to rob and cheat residents out of their hard earned cash. “We know many of you are getting your stokvel payments and buying things to take home before you travel, so don’t make yourself a target,” Patekile warned.
“Be sure to deposit your monies in the bank and don’t walk around with cash
Police hone in on festive season
or keep it in your home. Others know exactly how much cash you have.”
Robberies and cash-in-transit heist are especially a problem in the Cape Winelands, Patekile said.
ONTHERISE
There has also been a general rise in extortion in Khayamandi with two brothers allegedly gunned down earlier this year for refusing to pay (“Teens arrested after double murder in Khayamandi”, Eikestadnuus, 11 July).
In Stellenbosch kidnappings have become a serious concern (“Owner ‘booted’ after carjacking”, 11 September and “Stellenbosch students escape alleged kidnapping”, 17 October).
Police, in partnership with other law enforcement agencies, will focus on 10 crime prevention measures as part of the season’s operations Major General Luyanda Damoyi, deputy provincial police commissioner, said gender-based violence, robberies and cash-in-transit heists, road safety, illegal liquor, goods and firearms, extortion and kidnapping, tourism safety, event safety, adherence
to bylaws, and security, especially along major routes will be on the radar
Part of the launch programme included messages of support from safety role-players like Billy Laubscher of Business Against Crime Western Cape (BACWC) and Sebastian Abrahams of the Cape Winelands Community Policing Forum (CPF).
Laubscher thanked the law enforcement officers for looking after the public while sacrificing family time over the festive season.
SKILLSONDISPLAY
Spiritual leaders from Stellenbosch also took the opportunity to pray over Patekile and his members who were on parade at the launch
The K9 Unit showed off their drug finding skills and officers of the Paarl Public Order Policing Unit showed how they de-escalate hostile crowds during protest action, with a dramatic demonstration.
Cape Winelands district commissioner General Miriam Mocholog urged Stellenbosch residents to look after one another and report suspicious activities.
Cape Winelands district police commissioner General Miriam Mocholog urged residents to work with police to help make the festive season a safer one
Skenking help fietsry-kultuur bou
YaëlMalgas
Danksy ’n skenking van splinternuwe fietse sal plaaslike buurtwagte nou makliker patrollies doen en talle kinders sal op fietse en uit die strate bly.
As deel van mobiliteitsmaand het die Wes-Kaapse departement van mobiliteit, die Bicycle Empowering Network (BEN) en Pedal Power Association SA verlede Saterdag (25 Oktober) altesaam 44 fietse aan gemeenskapslede by die Idasvallei-sportterrein oorhandig
Volgens Rodney April van die Hillsidebuurtwag sal die fietse die vrywilligers help om ’n groter omgewing te patrolleer “Dit sal ook beteken ons kan vinniger reageer indien inwoners ons van gebeure in die buurt verwittig Die fietse sal ons help om as meer professioneel beskou te word,” meen April
Die Juffernbruch-buurtwag het ook fietse ontvang
Die jong fietsryers van die Prochorusgemeenskapsontwikkelingspan het nou ook meer rygoed om die roetes in Jonkershoek mee aan te pak
Die Idasvallei-gemeenskapsroetes, die Wellingtonse Angels of Hope-gemeenskapsontwikkelingsorganisasie en die Metodistekerk in Wellington het by navraag gesê die fietse sal gewis ’n aanwins wees
Isaac Sileku, die Wes-Kaapse minister vir mobiliteit, sê sy departement se fokus is nie net openbare vervoer nie, maar ook nie-gemotoriseerde vervoer
“Ons probeer om deur die provinsiale volhoubarevervoerprogram om mobiliteit vir almal toeganklik en volhoubaar te maak Dit beteken ook stap en fietsry, wat nie net goedkoop is nie, maar ons ook fiks hou Ons is oortuig dat fietsry vir almal is,
en ons is dankbaar dat dit hier in Stellenbosch kan wees, want hier is reeds infrastruktuur wat die begunstigdes sal help om veiliger te kan fietsry en die kwessie van verkeersprobleme die hoof te bied. Mense moet dus gewoond raak aan fietsry ” Rdl Reginald Pheiffer stem saam en meen dit is goed om ’n kultuur van fietsry onder veral jongmense te vestig Hy sê dit werk nie om infrastruktuur vir fietryers te skep as die gemeenskap nie fietse as alternatiewe of voorkeurmetode vir vervoer sien nie
Die fietsryers kon ook hul fietse danksy BEN na hul voorkeur laat verander Dylan Victor het by die oorhandiging met toertjies op sy spesiale fiets vermaak
Klapmuts-polisie lig leerders in oor misdaad en die gevolge daarvan
Lede van die Klapmuts-polisie het onlangs by die Hoërskool Klapmuts besoek afgelê om inligting en raad te bied Die beamptes het oud-misdadigers vergesel, wat hul ervarings oor die gevolge van hul misdaad en die lewe in die gevangenis met die leerders gedeel het. Die 300 leerders het onder meer gehoor van geslagsgebaseerde geweld, bende-aktiwiteite, dwelm- en alkohol-misbruik, huisinbrake sowel as boeliegedrag Onder die beamptes by die geleentheid was die vispolhoof AO Christiaan Paulse, die sektor 1-bestuurder AO Naiemah Esau en die gemeenskapskoördineerder sers Madilyn Dombas
All hands on deck needed to prevent fires
CapeNature is calling on the public to stay alert and proactive as the wildfire season nears, reminding all that the cost of runaway fires is far greater than many realise.
Each year, wildfires threaten lives, destroy homes and infrastructure, and cause lasting damage to the Western Cape’s biodiversity From displaced families and lost livelihoods to injured wildlife and devastated habitats, the impact is felt across communities, ecosystems, and the economy.
During the 2024-’25 fire season, CapeNature’s cost for fire suppression alone exceeded R20 million. Damage to the organisation’s infrastructure was also severe, while private landowners also sustained damage Legal claims for damages to forests and infrastructure exceeded R300 million.
Yet the true cost of fire cannot be measured in rands alone. Wildfires take lives, displace families and put communities at risk. They also carry a devastating price for nature.
In 2024-’25, a total of 97 fires covering over 75 000 ha burned, destroying vital
habitats, threatening wildlife, and reducing biodiversity resilience. Of the area burned, 42% was private land, and 58% CapeNature-managed land
By fighting fire on both private and CapeNature-managed land, the organisation showcases its commitment to containing fire as soon as possible The losses also remind us that the impact of fire ripples far beyond infrastructure and can undermine the ecological foundation on which both people and nature depend.
Wildfires are a natural part of the landscape, but the increasing frequency and severity of human-caused fires place an unsustainable burden on people and nature alike.
With only 19,5% of fires resulting from natural means during the last fire season, preventing fire remains the best protection. By making simple, responsible choices – such as never leaving open flames unattended, disposing of cigarette butts correctly, clearing defensible spaces around properties, and reporting smoke or fire immediately – each person can play a role in safeguarding lives and landscapes.
CapeNature also emphasises that fire prevention is not only a government responsibility but a shared community duty.
“When a fire breaks out, everyone pays the price, whether through lives lost, infrastructure destroyed or biodiversity harmed,” says CapeNature CEO Dr Ashley Naidoo. “But when we act before a fire can even start, everyone benefits.”
This season, CapeNature is taking an extra step to share practical knowledge with the public through its new Fire Fridays with Kai and Friends social media series It will provide weekly tips on fire awareness and prevention.
The campaign is designed to educate in a simple and engaging way, making fire safety knowledge more accessible CapeNature calls on residents, landowners and visitors to be vigilant and work together in keeping people, properties, and natural heritage safe If prevention fails, detection is the next defence, and the public is urged to report any sign of smoke or fire by dialling 112 from a mobile phone or 10177 from a landline
Van links is Jan Scannell (Prochorus), Isaac Sileku (die Wes-Kaapse minister van mobiliteit), Rodney April (Hillside-buurtwag), Greg Jaftha (Juffernbrugh-buurtwag), Yumna Gihwala-Salie (departement van mobiliteit), Dorothea Albanie (Metodistekerk Wellington) en Karel Dumpies (Angels of Hope) Foto’s: Yaël Malgas
Dylan Victor van Cycle for Life wys die afgelope Saterdag (25 Oktober) van sy toertjies op sy fiets
Students donate to charity
StudentsfromHuisMarais,aStellenboschUniversityresidence,recentlyhostedacharityeventand donatedtheproceedsto CommunityKeepers,an organisationworkinginStellenbosch,Paarlandthe Helderbergtoprovidemuch-neededmental-health servicestocommunities CommunityKeepersreceived R10000,enoughtoprovide40much-neededcounsellingsessions AtthehandoverlastThursday(23 October),fromleft,areCommunityKeepers’Courtney DavidsandNicoleduToitwithHuisMaraisstudents IzanCoetzee,DennisMcDonaldandAdriaanVenter
Kwagga nog op vrye voet
’n Kaapse bergkwagga hardloop sedert Saterdagaand (25 Oktober) in die Franschhoekpas rond nadat dié jong vulletjie waarskynlik uit ’n nabye CapeNature natuurreservaat ontsnap het Volgens Juani Beukes, een van die direkteure van Safe Hands Animal Rescue Franschhoek, het sy en haar span die eerste oproep oor die verdwaalde kwagga Saterdag omstreeks 20:00 ontvang Hulle het daarna inderhaas, in donker en reënerige toestande, na die pas vertrek om die vulletjie – ’n merrie – op te spoor Beukes verduidelik dat sy en haar span op daardie oomblik gedink het “Fransie”, soos hulle die kwagga gedoop het, behoort aan ’n nabye plaas Hulle het dus vir die kwagga stelselmatig probeer “afdruk” van die pas, waar sy op die pad gewaar is, na die plaas wat destyds sebras besit het, maar wat, volgens Beukes, intussen nie meer dié diere aanhou nie
Die kwagga is “Fransie” genoem omdat sy glo gereeld naby die Franschhoek-teken, wat met klippe op die berg, naby die pas uitgepak is, gewandel het
Die volgende dag (26 Oktober) omstreeks 08:00 het Beukes en haar span wéér ’n oproep gekry dat die kwagga op ’n ander plaas, Middagkrans, in dieselfde omgewing is, waarna sy weer teruggehardloop het na die Franschhoekpas
Beukes sê CapeNature is op dieselfde dag uiteindelik gekontak om hulp te verleen, waarna van hul wildbewaarders die pas besoek het om Fransie oor die pas te kry, terug na die natuurreservaat Dit het ongelukkig nie vrugte afgewerp
nie, en Maandag 27 Oktober is die kwagga weer bo die pas gewaar, waarna van die bewaarders berg op is om haar te probeer “afdruk na die pad sodat hulle haar padlangs oor die pas kon kry na die natuurreservaat” Dit blyk die kwagga speel ’n kat-en-muis-speletjie, want sy het wéér die bewaarders ontwyk
Beukes het omstreeks 18:00 weer ’n oproep ontvang dat sy op die plaas is waarheen sy en haar span die kwagga oorspronklik gelei het en waar sy oornag het Dinsdag (28 Oktober) het CapeNature en ’n veearts reggestaan by dié plaas om die kwagga met ’n verdowingsmiddel in te spuit, maar sy was skoonveld
Volgens Beukes sal sy en haar span aanhou soek na dié vulletjie sodat sy veilig terug aan CapeNature besorg kan word
Bewaarders van erfenis gehuldig
YaëlMalgas
Drie Stellenbossers wat vir langer as ’n dekade skryf en die dorp se erfenis help bewaar, is vanjaar deur die e’Boscherfenisprojek, in samewerking met die Stellenbosch-munisipaliteit en Universiteit Stellenbosch, vereer
Carol Lakay, die stigter van Stellenbosch
Magazine, Martin Viljoen, die hoof van media by die Universiteit Stellenbosch (US), en Elsabé Retief, voormalige Eikestadnuusredakteur, is verlede Woensdag (22 Oktober) by die US-museum op die jaarlikse e’Bosch-erfenistoekennings vereer Vanjaar se prysuitdeling het die kollig op die werk van rolspelers in die mediabedryf geplaas
Volgens dr Sias Mostert van e’Bosch is die organisasie juis geskep om die diverse erfenis van Stellenbosch te bewaar “Kultuur wat oor die jare bly staan, word later erfenis Dit is hierdie erfenis –tasbaar en ontasbaar – wat ons mediatoekenningsontvangers help vasvang het,” verduidelik Mostert Viljoen, wat sy loopbaan in kommunikasie as joernalis begin het, help reeds die afgelope 20 jaar om die US, sy personeel en studente se stories te vertel
“Die waardes, die verhoudings en die gedeelte ruimtes wat ons as ’n gemeenskap verbind – in daardie opsig kan ons sê erfenis is lewend; dit groei en verander en weerspieël wie ons besig is om te word Deel hiervan is hoe ons ’n gevoel van behoort skep,” verduidelik Ramjugernath. Hy meen e’Bosch se werk spreek juis tot hierdie verbintenis en poog om die universiteit, die munisipaliteit en veral die gemeenskap nader aan mekaar te bring Twee van e’Bosch se gevestigde programbestuurders is ook vir hul werk van langer as ’n dekade met die organsasie vereer
Glynis Meyer sê haar liefde vir kinders laat haar altyd na e’Bosch terugkeer en sy geniet dit veral om vakansieprogramme vir die jongspan aan te bied
Elsabe Farao het besluit sy wil kinders en vroue met naaldwerkvaardighede help bemagtig Dié bobaas-stikster help nou jongmense wat deel is van e’Bosch se programme om alles van kussingslope tot brilsakkies te maak “Ná ’n paar weke kan jy die verskil in die kinders se gedrag sien Hulle kry selfvertroue en leer om mekaar met respek te hanteer,” sê Farao
Die raadslid Ndipiwe Olayi het vir die burgemeester, Jeremy Fasser, ingestaan en
Die ontvangers van vanjaar se e’Bosch-erfenistoekennings is verlede Woensdag vereer Foto: Yaël Malgas
’n Kaapse bergkwagga dwaal tans in Franschhoekpas rond
Town will bloom
One of South Africa’s most captivating garden-lifestyle celebrations, Garden Town Stellenbosch, returns to the City of Oaks from Friday 31 October to Sunday 9 November, promising to dazzle garden lovers, green-fingered enthusiasts and families alike.
Organised by Visit Stellenbosch, it features the Stellenbosch Garden Show & Market, a highlight of the botanical celebrations
It promises, once again, to delight visitors with a tranquil tea garden and a curated selection of plants, gardening treasures, décor and inspiration
The event brings 60 curated stalls offering indoor and outdoor plants, rare and indigenous plant species, botanical home decor and crafts, and tasty culinary treats and artisanal food products together
It anchors a celebration that comes to life across the town’s gardens, venues and open spaces This year’s event ups the ante with immersive displays, hands-on workshops, and a jampacked programme
Visitors can also explore immersive gardens by some of South Africa’s most celebrated landscape designers such as Life Green Group and Alan Dawson Gardens
At the heart of this year’s Garden Show programme the town hall series brings leading voices in sustainable gardening, food systems and rewilding together
Experts Loubie Rusch, Nikki Brighton and Sue Buckland share practical insights on indigenous edibles, foraging and climateresilient gardening – inspiring visitors to grow and live more lightly on the land Garden Town extends throughout Stellenbosch, with guided walks, creative workshops and unique experiences across farms, vineyards and gardens
A bloom-filled highlight is the annual
Flower Parade, which will start at Die Braak on Tuesday 4 November It asks participants of all ages to don their most whimsical flower crown, decorate their bikes or prams, and join the joyful pageant of petals parading through the town centre
This year’s parade will also include the announcement of the winners and participants of the annual Mayoral Gardening Competition
Garden Town Stellenbosch 2025 is more than a garden show; it’s a vibrant community movement celebrating the harmony among people, plants, creativity and conservation
Whether you’re a horticulturist, home gardener or simply hungry for a breath of fresh air and flowers, this is an event not to be missed by anyone
“Our vision for Garden Town is to create a space where sustainability, culture, wellness and beauty meet,” says Annemie Liebenberg, CEO of Visit Stellenbosch
“Whether you’re an avid gardener or simply someone who delights in nature, this celebration belongs to you ” Forupdates,thefullprogrammeandtickets visitwww gardentown visitstellenbosch org
Soulfulsoundswithbubbles
The House of JC Le Roux is again opening its doors for a dazzling early-evening performance by Samawinner Rowlene (pictured) on Friday 31 October. Known for her soothing vocals and confessional lyrics, she’ll be adding a soulful touch of sparkle to guests’ weekend celebrations with JC Fridays. Devised as a masterclass in fun, flavour and sparkle, the monthly event will take place on the last Friday of every month until the end of the year, with line-ups for November and December still to be announced The experience includes a glass of bubbly on arrival, a tasting of five sparkling wines paired with decadent mini cakes by Château Gâteaux, and an electrifying live performance in the garden overlooking the valley as the sun sets Delicious wood-fired pizzas and other delectable food will also be available from on-site restaurant Cucina Di Giovanna Tickets, at R350 each, can be booked online at https://jcleroux howler co za
Dorpskalender | Town calendar
THURSDAY 30 OCTOBER
Franschhoek: The monthly Unlock the Violin Sonata concert series presents Prokofiev at 11:00 at the FRANSCHHOEK DUTCH REFORMED
CHURCH. Join violinist Johanna Roos and pianist Elna van der Merwe for the final concert of 2025 and a glass of wine Book through Quicket
VRYDAG 31 OKTOBER
Stellenbosch: UTOPIA verkoop lemoenkoek en sjokolade-brownies, gebak deur die tehuis se sjef Verkope om 10:30 by die ingang in Dorpstraat
Stellenbosch: An evening of nostalgia and timeless classics is on the cards as Legacy brings Golden Hits Retrospective to the DROSTDY THEATRE at 20:15 The show features hits from the ’60s and ’70s Tickets, at R210 each, can be booked online through Webtickets
Stellenbosch: Step into the spooky season with Sportsmans Warehouse and Dirtopia at MURATIE
WINE ESTATE for the Halloween Forest Night
Trail Run Participants can enter the 5 or 10 km of eerie forest singletrack in costume – expect Halloween surprises, glowing sunset views and live music by Akkedis The longer event starts at
19:30 and the 5 km event at 19:45 Entry starts at R175 (pre-entries close on Thursday 30 October) For more or to enter, visit www dirtopia co za or send an email to info@dirtopia co za
SATERDAG 1 NOVEMBER
Devonvallei: Die Geestelike Ambassadeurs vir Jesus Christus-kerk bied om 18:00 volume 3 van sy Gospel Extravaganza by die LAERSKOOL DEVONVALLEI aan Die konsert sluit vertonings deur Sharon Steyn, Reggie B, Jesmoné Damonse, Hester Prins, Jacquin Koopman en Undivided Purpose in Toegang is R60 vir volwassenes en R30 vir laerskoolkinders Bel Mandy by 084 038 9961 of Berenice by 073 530 3343
Idasvallei: Kom kry jou basaar-gunstelinge en ondersteun NOAH-HUIS VIR BEJAARDES Die inwoners sal stalletjies in Lückhoffstraat oprig Die basaar open om 08:00-14:00 by Noah-huis
Ida’s Valley: STELLENBOSCH CANCER WARRIORS hosts a colour picnic at the Ida’s Valley Sports Ground at 12:00 The theme is “Paint the day with hope colour and celebrate our survivors” Cost: R750 per team of 10 For more, call Lucinda on 065 679 5044 or Avrill on 083 234 9271
The Stellenbosch Garden Show & Market at the town hall is the heart of the 2025 Garden Town Stellenbosch. It is a vibrant, must-see highlight of the botanical celebration
Health & B Beautty y
A clearer look at blurry eye facts
Does reading in the dark or sitting too close to the television damage your eyes? Or, do carrots give you superior vision?
Here is a look at what’s fact and what’s fiction. “Good vision is vital to the quality of life, but far too many fall for myths that can lead to neglect or unnecessary worry,” says Murray Hewlett, CEO of Affinity Health.
“Whether it’s about screen time, reading habits or food, it’s important to know the truth so you can take proper care of your eyes.”
Myth 1: Reading in dim light will ruin your eyes
Fact: While reading in low light may cause temporary eye strain and fatigue, it does not cause permanent damage to your vision
Myth 2: Carrots are the best food for eyesight
Fact: Carrots are rich in beta-carotene, which the body converts into vitamin A, which is important for night vision However, for overall eye health, a varied diet that includes leafy greens, citrus fruits, oily fish, and eggs offers broader nutritional benefits.
Myth 3: Wearing glasses weakens your eyes
Fact: Glasses do not weaken your vision They correct refractive errors, such as near-sightedness or far-sightedness, allowing for clearer vision Any changes in vision over time are typically due to the natural progression of ageing rather than the wearing of glasses
Myth 4: Too much screen time causes permanent eye damage
Fact: Long hours on digital devic-
es can lead to digital eye strain, with symptoms including dry eyes, headaches and blurred vision, but it doesn’t cause lasting damage Follow the 20-20-20 rule: every 20 minutes look at something 20 feet away for 20 seconds
Myth 5: You only need an eye test if you have vision problems
Fact: Routine eye exams can detect issues such as glaucoma, cataracts, diabetic retinopathy and high blood pressure long before you notice symptoms
Regular screenings help catch silent conditions early, even if your eyesight feels normal
Are you doing enough to protect your sight?
Access to eye care has improved, but many people still delay check-ups Skipping routine vision screenings can allow problems to worsen unnoticed, impacting daily life, safety, and well-being
This is especially critical for children who may struggle in school as a result of uncorrected vision issues and older adults who are at higher risk of serious eye diseases
Myth debunked: Wearing glasses does not weaken you eyesight
Idasvallei se mark floreer
Die Idasvallei-familiemark ontwikkel vinnig in ’n gemeenskapsinstelling – soos die span agter dié mark gehoop het. Volgens Chanre Williams, wat die bemarking behartig, sien die verkopers reeds uit na die Kersfees-mark wat vir Desember beplan word.
Die eerste mark is in September gehou en dit sal nou elke Saterdag van 09:00 tot 14:00 by die markgebied op die hoek van Rustenburg- en Sonnebloemweg (oorkant die Puma-vulstasie) plaasvind “Idasvalleiers is welkom om verkopers te word. Ons doel is om samehorigheid te bevorder en te wys wat moontlik is wanneer die gemeenskap saamkom om saam te bou,” sê Williams Besoek “Idas Valley Community Market” op Facebook en Instagam om van die markgebeure op hoogte te bly
A walk for the disabled beckons
In celebration of National Disability Rights Awareness Month, culminating in the International Day of Persons with Disabilities, the seventh annual Walk with Disability will return to the streets of Stellenbosch on Saturday 15 November
The event is expected to draw 400 participants, bringing together people with disabilities, allies, community members and prominent figures, including representatives of Stellenbosch Municipality It is organised by the Stellenbosch Disability Network (SDN) in partnership with the municipality and local sponsor Stelkor Pharmacies, reinforcing a collective commitment to disability awareness and community integration
The event, a vibrant display of unity, will be led by the VGK Stellenbosch Brigade, who will guide the walk through the historical streets symbolising both visibility and accessibility for people with disabilities
Walk with Disability offers a powerful platform for people with disabilities, families, friends and advocates to join hands (and feet) in celebrating the strides made toward inclusivity, while also highlighting areas for improvement in creating universally accessible spaces
“The SDN remains dedicated to advancing disability rights and raising awareness about the capabilities and contributions of persons with disabilities,” says Dr Cindy Wiggett-Barnard, SDN chairperson and CEO of ChangeAbility “By fostering greater understanding and promoting inclusion, we can strengthen our communities and pave the way for a more accessible society that benefits everyone ”
Locals are invited to gather at Stellenbosch Town Hall for an empowering day of awareness, celebration and community spirit Registration starts at 08:00 and the walk takes place from from Die Braak 09:00 Formoredetails,contactWiggett-Barnardon 0878027157orcindy@changeability.org.za.
Local Rotary club supports victims of domestic violence
The Rotary Club of Stellenbosch has announced its recent collaboration with the Thuthuzela Care Centre in Ida’s Valley.
The club and its members have made a significant contribution to support the centre’s vital work in providing shelter,
children staying at the centre
“As Rotarians, we are committed to making a positive impact in our community,” said Rotarian Jackie Hunter
“We are honoured to support the Thuthuzela Care Centre in Ida’s Valley
Elsabe Farao en Noa Wiiliams by hul stalletjie met handgemaakte naaldwerkitems Foto’s: Yaël Malgas
Mohammed Parker beman die braai van Wahid’s Kitchen wat smullekker Halaal-maaltye op dis.
Journalism students explore public lives
iconic space means to our community,” said Faizel Moos, manager of the SU Letting Office
Among the highlights was a substantial R150 000 contribution to enable students who have met their academic requirements but still face financial barriers to graduate This contribution was made possible through a partnership between Nedbank and the Neelsie Student Centre
gathered to honour and celebrate the Neelsie’s 50-year legacy
“The celebration was not only about the building, but five decades of shared memories, friendships and everyday moments that define the Matie experience
“From its humble beginnings as a long-awaited dream of a student centre, the Neelsie has grown into a symbol of togetherness – a place where ideas, friendships, and even businesses have taken shape and flourished within its walls ”
As one of the centre’s tenants Nedbank has long been part of the Matie journey
“Its support reflects a shared commitment to investing in the future of the students who make the Neelsie what it is today,” Moos noted
Johm Makgato, head of Youth Strategy and CVP at Nedbank, added: “At Nedbank we believe supporting students on their journey to graduation lies at
As the 50-day celebration drew to a close, one message remained clear: while the Neelsie has changed with the times, its essence remains the same It is still the place where students meet to eat, laugh, dream, and build memories that last long after graduation
“The Neelsie is a home that truly belongs to its people,” said Moos
MedalhaulforFynbos
Ten rhythmic gymnasts from the Fynbos Gymnastics Club in Stellenbosch proudly represented the Western Cape at a prestigious national competition earlier this month.
They were among the country’s top gymnasts, across all disciplines, to compete at the 2025 National Gymnastics Championships in Durban from Friday 3 to Thursday 9 October.
The local athletes returned from the championship with 16 medals. Fynbos’ gymnasts competed in the rhythmic discipline and represented the Western Cape in their respective age groups and levels.
2025 National Gymnastics Championships
Rhythmic gymnastics combines elements of dance with athleticism, and participants perform with ropes, ribbons, balls, hoops and clubs. According to the club’s officials, the objective is to empower young gymnasts while fostering their physical development and confidence through the discipline of the sport. “Reaching nationals was the goal, but our gymnasts
went above and beyond, bringing home both apparatus and overall medals,” said Simone Heine, club owner and head coach.
Aza-Lea Wentzel (level 5
under-10) and Hannah Griffioen (level 6 under-14) each placed first overall, earning them the title of national champion in their respective levels and age groups, while Hannah Krynauw (level 5 under-11) place third overall in her division
“Simply qualifying for the nationals was a remarkable achievement. Earning medals was a well-deserved bonus and a testament to these gymnasts’ hard work and dedication throughout the year,” Heine added.
“Fynbos Gymnastics Club and its members are extremely proud of the excellence, commitment and dedication shown by this talented group of gymnasts, both within their province and on the national stage ” Fynbos Gymnastics Club offers rhythmic gymnastics to youths from age three. For more details or to schedule a free trial lesson, email simone@fynbosgymnastics.co.za or call 072 378 8677.
The Fynbos gymnasts who achieved podium finishes (from left) are Mienke Kotze, Izandri du Toit, Hannah Griffioen, Mische Comerma, Milla le Roux, Hannah Krynauw, Aza-Lea Wentzel and Ella Krynauw Eva Baptiste and Zahra Ferreira were absent