“Sonder woorde vir die moorde wat in Bredasdorp gebeur... Nog een, en dit binne net ’n paar weke.”
Só lui Jacques Francois Harmse se plasing op Facebook na aanleiding van die moord op Elvin Mark Olivier die afgelope naweek. Dit is die vyfde moord wat die afgelope vier maande in dié dorp gepleeg is.
Daylon Arendse is in April buite ’n nagklub in Bredasdorp doodgesteek; Zanie Vaaltyn en ’n 65-jarige man is in Mei binne 10 minute van mekaar vermoor; die geliefde oudonderwyser
Sammy Cloete se liggaam is op 12 Julie met een steekwond aan sy nek gevind en Saterdag is Olivier ook doodgesteek.
Talle mense het in reaksie op Harmse se plasing hul medelye met Olivier se familie en hul skok oor nóg ’n wrede en sinlose moord op dié plattelandse dorp uitgespreek. Iemand se kommentaar het gelui: “Wat gaan aan in Bredasdorp? Ons as gemeenskap moet saamstaan en die euwels in ons dorp uitroei.”
“Nog ’n sinlose moord,” het iemand anders geskryf.
’n Ander het ’n beroep op geestelike leiers gemaak om saam te staan en vir
die dorp te bid en bygevoeg: “Dis tyd dat daar gebid word op daai grond... Daai bose magte en geeste moet uitgesit word uit die dorp.”
Francois Abrahams, ’n boorling van die dorp, het ook op Facebook geskryf: “Moord nommer 5 in Bredasdorp. April– 1; Mei – 2; Julie – 2.
“Bredasdorp is nie meer veilig nie.”
Abrahams het hom op 12 Julie ná die afgetrede onderwyser Sammy Cloete (82) se moord ook sterk uitgespreek oor die toenemende aantal moorde in sy geboortedorp: “Dit maak my woedend – woedend omdat ons nagelaat het om ons bejaardes te beskerm; woedend, want die huis oorkant Oom Sammy is al vir dekades ’n steen des aanstoots en niemand verroer ’n vinger om dit tot op sy fondament te bring nie. Woedend omdat dit die vierde moord in drie of vier maande is; woedend omdat die beligting in daardie omgewing swak is; woedend omdat my dorp dit so gemaklik maak vir moordenaars om die vrede te versteur; woedend omdat ’n mens net hoor van ‘veiligheidsplanne en vergaderings met ’n minister’, maar niks loop uit op die bevordering van misdaadbekamping nie; woedend om te begryp dat iemand wat sy alles vir die opvoeding van ’n gemeenskap gegee het, deur dieselfde gemeenskap gefaal is.
“Ek is woedend vir Bredasdorp. Ek is woedend!”
Die feit dat ’n 16-jarige vir Cloete se moord sowel as die inbraak by sy huis en die diefstal van sy voertuig aangekla is, het die gemeenskap verder ontstel, veral aangesien nóg ’n 16-jarige in Mei saam met sy broer in verband met twee moorde wat binne 10 minute van mekaar gepleeg is, in hegtenis geneem is. (“Twee broers van Bredasdorp agter tralies vir moorde”, Hermanus Times, 21 Mei).
Kol. Mbuyiseli Mtingane, waarnemende bevelvoerder van die Overberg-distrik, het ook sy kommer uitgespreek oor die toenemende aantal tieners en minderjariges wat in hegtenis geneem word, maar het die versekering gegee dat “rolspelers uit verskeie sektore deur middel van die gemeenskapsveiligheidsforum met die polisie hande vat om misdaad te bekamp.
“Verskeie organisasies en departemente, insluitend munisipaliteite, die departement van maatskaplike ontwikkeling en die onderwysdepartement, is by die forum betrokke,” het hy verduidelik.
Mtingane het die moorde in Bredasdorp as “opportunistiese misdade” beskryf en gesê dit dui daarop dat dit nie weens georganiseerde misdaad was nie.
“Die feit dat ons verdagtes in byna al die sake in hegtenis geneem het, is bewys
daarvan,” het hy bygevoeg.
Lt.kol. Anneke Durand, die stasiebevelvoerder van die Bredasdorp-polisie, het bevestig die polisie is Saterdag omstreeks 02:25 na die toneel op die hoek van Lang- en Akasiastraat ontbied, waar die slagoffer blykbaar gelê het. Olivier was alleen toe hy deur sy aanvaller oorval, beroof en gesteek is. Durand het bevestig dat een verdagte in hegtenis geneem is en Maandag (28 Julie) in die Bredasdorp-landdroshof verskyn het. Sy deel die gemeenskap se kommer oor die aantal moorde die afgelope ruk in Bredasdorp. “Hierdie voorvalle is tragies en ons deel die gemeenskap se kommer oor die veiligheid van almal in ons dorp,” het sy gesê. Sy het egter ’n beroep op die gemeenskap gedoen om die polisie in die stryd teen misdaad by te staan deur enige verdagte aktiwiteite of mense dadelik aan te meld. Sy het inwoners ook gemaan om veral saans in groepe te beweeg, hekke en deure altyd gesluit te hou, goeie beligting om hul eiendom aan te bring en dat ouer mense en kinders moet na winkels en openbare plekke begelei word. “Ons vra dat die gemeenskap kalm bly, meer waaksaam moet wees en hul vertroue in die prosesse plaas,” het sy bygevoeg.
Elvin Mark Olivier – op 26 Julie vermoor. Zanie Vaaltyn – op 17 Mei vermoor.
Sammy Cloete – op 12 Julie vermoor.
Cashless tips for Hermanus
Picture this: One has just enjoyed a perfect day exploring Hermanus, one’s car safely watched over by a friendly local car guard who greets one with a warm smile and helpful directions. Reaching for one’s wallet to show appreciation, that all-too-familiar sinking feeling hits – no cash!
It’s a modern dilemma that plays out countless times across South Africa every day, creating an awkward disconnect between one’s good intentions and increasingly digital lifestyles.
While contactless payments have streamlined almost every aspect of one’s daily transactions the simple act of saying “thank you” with a tip has remained a frustrating anomaly in a world that essentially has become cashless.
Tip4Change, well-known all over South Africa, is also now fully operational in Hermanus, bringing a convenient, safe and secure way to tip one’s local car guards electronically.
“We believe all people reliant on tips should have the tools to receive them,” said Donald Paterson, “and we are dedicated to bridging the ‘payment void’ that exists where the cash-based informal sector meets our transforming cashless society, particularly for under-banked individuals.
“We empower car guards to receive cashless tips, ensuring their hard work is rewarded.”
He said Tip4Change is an impact-focused business dedicated to providing financial
inclusivity for individuals who rely on tips in an increasingly cashless world.
“We work with approximately 1 000 car guards and petrol attendants across South Africa, providing them with QR codes that enable them to receive cashless tips via SnapScan, Zapper, and most South African banking apps.”
The process is incredibly simple: every official Hermanus car guard is equipped with a unique QR code.
To tip, all you need is your smartphone and one of two widely used, safe and secure payment applications: SnapScan or Zapper.
Simply download either of these apps, scan the car guard’s QR code, select the amount you wish to tip and confirm the payment. It is received in real-time by the car guard.
“We have been operating in Hermanus for a year or so now, and we have a good relationship with the majority of the official car guards in Hermanus and have been given approval from Law Enforcement to provide the car guards with our QR Codes.
“A key to the success of our project is to educate the local public about this initiative, ensuring they understand how to use it and that it's a safe way to tip.
“We have a big user base in Cape Town and therefore we often see big spikes on the weekend in Hermanus as the ‘Capetonians’ are familiar with the cards.”
Clean rivers are our responsibility
Mitzi Buys
Rivers play a critical role in water security, public health and economic development, and therefore should be protected. This was the strong message and call to action by the Deputy Minister of Water and Sanitation, Sello Seithlholo, during a Clear Rivers Campaign and community river clean-up initiative in Grabouw earlier this month.
This river-health awareness workshop was hosted at Imizano United church near a tributary that feeds into the Swannies river.
The event was attended by, among others, Theewaterskloof Municipality’s Executive Deputy Mayor Alderman Cynthia Clayton, TWK Municipal Manager Walter Hendricks as well as key partners from Overberg Water, Coca Cola, the Bergriver Water User Association and local residents.
Addressing community members Deputy Minister Seithlholo stressed that clean rivers are the foundation of the water value chain. He said it is very important for communities to understand the benefits of clean rivers.
“Water does not come from a tap. It starts with our rivers. If the water
quality in our rivers is poor the cost of treating that water increases significantly,” explained Seithlholo.
The Deputy Minister called on municipalities to improve their wastewater-treatment systems and take greater responsibility in safeguarding water resources. Citing the 2023 Green Drop Progress Report, he revealed only 39 of 144 municipalities were found to be functional in this regard.
TWK Municipal Manager Walter Hendriks announced steps the municipality is taking to strengthen environmental protection. “But we need communities to do their part and to stop polluting rivers,” he said.
Deputy Mayor Cynthia Clayton also stressed that pollution, blocked rivers and poor sanitation threatens environmental health and the safety of residents.
“This visit is not just symbolic, but a commitment to collaboration, dignity and shared responsibility,” said Clayton.
The Department of Water and Sanitation continues to drive partnerships and public awareness initiatives to ensure the long-term health of the country’s rivers.
“Clean rivers are everyone’s responsibility,” was Deputy Minister Seithlholo’s clear closing message. “Our future depends on them.”
LICENCE-FEE INCREASE: Overstrand Municipality says vehicle-licence fees increased by R30 or more depending on vehicle weight, from 1 July. If you paid in June, you must pay the difference before discs are issued. Call 028 313 1044/8136.
Deputy Minister of Water and Sanitation Sello Seithlholo with Dr Phakamani Buthelezi, CEO of Overberg Water.
One step closer to justice
It has been nearly one year since the tragic news of Deveney Nel’s horrific murder rocked not only the Overberg but the rest of the country too, with the news of the 16-year-old's murder even making international headlines.
And although most of the furore surrounding her case has waned to some extent, her loved ones and die-hard supporters still battle to make sense of the tragedy and all the shocking revelations that have come to light since her life was snuffed out on 7 August 2024.
Now everyone is waiting with baited breath for more details to emerge during the trial of the teenager accused of stabbing young Deveney, which is set to commence in the Western Cape High Court soon. The case against him was postponed last week to 20 August, when he is expected to make his final appearance in the Caledon Magistrates’ Court before the case
Messages that were circulated on social media hours before Deveney’s body was found in a storeroom
is formally transferred to the High Court. He faces charges of murder and defeating the administration of justice.
In response to an enquiry by Hermanus Times at the end of June regarding reports that a rape charge had been added to the charge sheet, the National Prosecuting Authority (NPA) stated the possibility that more charges could be added existed.
NPA spokesperson Eric Ntabazalila said: “The investigation is continuing and we hope to be able to put all the charges to the accused when we transfer the matter to the high court. On the day we will hand the indictment outlining all the charges we are levelling against the accused.”
Tanya Bippert of One Billion Rising, an international organisation fighting for the rights of victims of gender-based violence (GBV) and abuse, called on the community to come out in their numbers on 20 August.
“This is the last day we will be able to stand together as a community outside the Caledon court to demand justice for Deveney.
“Afterwards we hope to get donations to enable the small group that has diligently attended every court hearing to travel to Cape Town when the accused makes his first appearance in the High Court on 12 September.”
SHOCK, HORROR, OUTRAGE
The commencement of the trial in the High Court signals the final chapter in the tragic tale that started last August with WhatsApp messages and Facebook posts asking whether anyone had seen Deveney Nel of Hoërskool Overberg who failed to show up for her lift. One of the messages stated that her cellphone had been found and that her mother, Lida Nel, was at the police station to report her missing.
An extensive search for the missing Grade 10 learner led to the horrific discovery of her body with a number of stab wounds in a storeroom on the school grounds. The news went viral, with many people speculating about the identity of the perpetrator and the possible motive.
The school was closed the following day as authorities fine-toothcombed the scene for clues. As this was happening emotional scenes played off on the school grounds as parents of learners living at the school hostel arrived to fetch their visibly-shaken children ahead of the Women’s Day long weekend.
When the school reopened the following Monday, learners lay flowers, cards and soft plush toys, and strung balloons from poles at the entrance to the school in honour of Deveney.
Then came the big bombshell that a 17-year-old male had been arrested at his home in Grabouw for the murder in Caledon hours after a memorial service for Deveney on Friday 16 August. It was later revealed that the suspect had attended the service, which was limited to staff and learners of the school and their parents, and had reportedly also participated in the search for Deveney.
On Monday 19 August 2024 he made his first appearance in the Caledon Magistrates’ Court, where a large number of police officers were deployed to keep watch over the large crowd of reporters from various media outlets, social activists and a large crowd of angry community members demanding “Justice for Deveney”.
BOMBSHELL
Then came the horrific revelation that the accused had previously been charged in connection with the rape and brutal assault of an 11-year old girl when only 13 years old at the end of December 2020, the year before he started high school.
He reportedly underwent psychiatric evaluation at the time, but was found not criminally liable. The case was reportedly withdrawn in 2023.
Despite the overwhelming outcry for the alleged perpetrator to be “named and shamed” the NPA stated that the accused’s identity would not be revealed as he is charged under the Child Justice Act.
Ntabazalila confirmed that the accused’s name would not be revealed even after he
turned 18 as he was a minor at the time of his arrest.
The accused, who had initially been detained in a place of safety for youths in conflict with the law, was moved to Pollsmoor Prison after he turned 18 in April.
After once again undergoing mental evaluation at the Valkenberg Psychiatric Hospital earlier this year it was found that he is fit to stand trial. It recently also came to light that the accused’s mother had applied for an interdict against Bippert.
The activist confirmed she was due to appear in the Grabouw Magistrates’ Court on Friday 8 August, the day after the first anniversary of Deveney’s death, to oppose the application.
“We aim to have some sort of Women’s Day celebration on the day that will also pay tribute to her,” she said.
“Like the women who marched to the Union Buildings in 1956 to fight for vital change we will continue to fight for an important cause and to show support to Deveney's mother and sister.”
Johan Jacobs, Hoërskool Overberg's principal, confirmed that the school will also have a private memorial service in memory of Deveney that will be held in conjunction with a Women’s Day service led by Reverend Willem Lubbe.
Imagine being in the zone – heart pounding, legs pumping, eyes locked on the finish line – only to collide with an unsuspecting pedestrian. While it may seem far-fetched the Supreme Court of Appeal’s decision in Kalmer v Davids NO (in her capacity as the Executor in the Estate: late Yasmin Salie) and Another (501/2023) [2025] ZASCA 26 (28 March 2025) serves as a sobering reminder: focus alone does not absolve a runner’s duty to maintain awareness of
their surroundings.
The incident involved elite runner Kalmer, competing for prizes, who struck Ms Yasmin Salie, then taking photos on a wide public pavement. The High Court initially dismissed Ms Salie’s claim, but on appeal Kalmer was held 30% liable for failing to keep a proper lookout. The SCA upheld this finding, confirming runners owe a duty of care not only to fellow participants but also members of the public on shared routes. Key
lessons from the judgment are: Foreseeability and duty: Runners must anticipate pedestrians when racing on public paths.
Vigilance is not optional.
Breach of duty: Kalmer admitted to focusing on the ground and ignoring her surroundings. The SCA ruled that simply looking up would have prevented the collision.
This case underscores practical steps runners must take:
• Scan your path regularly.
• Slow down near pedestrians.
• Signal your presence early.
• Study the course in advance.
• Wear clear identification.
The Kalmer ruling makes it clear: competitive intent doesn’t override public safety. Whether running for glory or health, awareness on public routes is a legal, and moral, obligation. For more on this topic visit our website, www. vorsteyn.co.za, or make an obligation-free consultation with us on 028 313 0033.
• Vorster & Steyn Attorneys is a proud member of the Phatshoane Henney Legal Group, SA’s largest group of legal practitioners.
The case against the teenager accused of Deveney Nel’s murder was postponed to 20 August.
Smallest tortoise found in Onrus
A Hermanus resident couldn’t believe his luck when he came across a juvenile Homopus areolatus
Neil Jangle posted on the Onrus/ Vermont Facebook Page: “Been a while.
Probably after three years of searching this area I finally found a juvenile, Homopus areolatus. What a surreal experience it was seeing this little green gem staring back at me.
“This little character measures around 5 cm. To put just how tiny this species is in perspective, the male’s maximum length is around 7-8 cm, so not much bigger than this little one... and the female around 10 cm. The cutest little creature you could ever wish to see.”
According to Wikipedia “Padloper tortoise” can refer to two different, but closely related, tortoise species: the Speckled Padloper (Chersobius signatus) and the Parrot-beaked Tortoise (Homopus areolatus), both found in Southern Africa. The Speckled Padloper is the world’s smallest tortoise. The Parrot-beaked Tortoise is also known as the Common Padloper. Both are small tortoises with flattened shells and are endemic to South Africa.
There is more good news for nature lovers as specially-trained border collies are proving to be game-changers in the fight to save South Africa’s most endangered reptile species. These remarkable
conservation dogs are revolutionising how researchers track and protect the critically-endangered geometric tortoise.
With her snout pressed firmly to the ground, Delta the border collie zigzags methodically through the shrubs of a pri-
vate nature reserve near Cape Town. Her mission is to locate the elusive geometric tortoises that call this region home.
When Delta suddenly stops and lies down in front of a small bush her handler knows she’s made a discovery.
Baboon monitors to be increased
How do we share our space with our closest animal relatives? This is an age-old challenge that continues to evolve.
On 8 July, this complex situation between human progress and wildlife preservation took centre stage at a crucial meeting between the Hermanus Baboon Action Group (HBAG) and Overstrand Municipality (OM). At this meeting it became clear the challenge facing Hermanus isn’t unique, but the town’s approach was becoming noteworthy.
“Representatives of HBAG met with the OM to discuss the ongoing and long-term management of baboon-related challenges in Hermanus,” a press release from the HBAG stated. The meeting was constructive and collaborative, with all parties reaffirming their commitment to working together towards sustainable, humane and scientificallyinformed solutions.
At this meeting the OM confirmed the formal Baboon Management Plan (BMP) had been extended until January 2026. This includes continued employ-
ment of the current baboonmanagement team and plans to expand staff capacity. “The goal is to create a longer-term plan, as the baboon management challenges are long-term concerns and requires long term solutions. The importance of broader provincial support to ensure long-term success was stressed.”
The OM also confirmed that improved collaboration between the OM, CapeNature and the NSPCA is also underway, with a focus on aligning efforts across different land-use zones such as urban, agricultural and conservation areas.
With a current team of 16 baboon management staff it is, according to the HBAG, difficult to monitor all the problem areas and they were delighted when the OM announced that immediate recruitment for seven to eight additional baboon-management staff, mostly to fill the vacant supervisor and area-manager positions for now, is underway.
OM also hopes to include former trained and experienced baboon rangers, who have knowledge of the Hermanus troops, to
ensure more efficacy and success.
The long-term goal is to grow the team to 42 baboon-management staff prioritising high-conflict areas such as Voëlklip and Mossel River as well as Fernkloof residential and Hermanus Heights. With the shortage of operational vehicles limiting monitoringresponse capacity the HBAG is busy exploring the possibility of a temporary vehicle sponsorship.
Waste management remains a critical concern, particularly in short-term rental properties such as bed-and-breakfast properties, where guests may be unaware of local baboon-sensitive practices. Rental agencies and property owners must ensure guests are aware of and comply with responsible waste management. OM will provide HBAG with awareness posters.
The group also raised concerns about a recent baboon shooting and would follow-up regularly to ensure legal accountability. It highlighted a need for calm, lawful and community-wide responses to baboon presence. Violence is both illegal and deeply divisive.
Hidden in the tall grass lies a tiny reptile, its distinctive shell adorned with yellow star-like patterns, the unmistakable signature of a geometric tortoise, a species found exclusively at the southern tip of Africa.
“One can tell by its flat belly that it’s an adult female,” Esther Matthew, Delta’s handler and a conservation officer for South Africa’s Endangered Wildlife Trust, pointed out.
“These specially-trained dogs prove to be five times more effective than human searchers, with enhanced detection capabilities that allow them to find smaller tortoises often missed by humans. The canines show particular success in locating hatchlings and juveniles, leading to a dramatic increase in total discoveries per search mission.
The geometric tortoise conservation situation has reached crisis levels. According to biologist Andrew Turner of conservation authority Cape Nature the species’ population has plummeted dramatically since the early 1990s, when approximately 1 500 individuals remained in the wild.
“Current estimates suggest only several hundred survive today, confined exclusively to South Africa’s Western Cape province.
“The species now faces ‘declines across the entire remaining range’, earning it critically-endangered status.”
Warning to watch for distressed seabirds
Marine conservationists are calling on the public to remain vigilant for oiled and stranded African penguins after oil was discovered washing up on beaches between Pearly Beach and Buffeljags this week.
Marine Dynamics and affiliated organisations have issued a press release urging residents to report any sightings of penguins in distress immediately to the African Penguin and Seabird Sanctuary (APPS) emergency hotline on 072 598 7117.
“Any penguin found on the beach away from a breeding colony is a penguin in trouble,” warned marine wildlife experts.
The oil contamination poses a severe threat to the already critically-endangered African penguin population, with even small amounts of oil proving potentially fatal to these vulnerable seabirds. It may have originated from an illegal tanker or possibly from a leaking shipwreck, both of which
are classified as chronic oiling events. The discovery has triggered the area’s official Oil Spill Plan, with CapeNature formally notified of the incident.
Patrol operations around Dyer Island have been significantly increased to monitor for affected seabirds, while South African Maritime Safety Authority (Samsa) investigators and specialised oil spill response company Spiltech are en route to assess the situation.
The public are encouraged to look for penguins that appear:
• Covered in oil or other substances;
• Injured or unable to move normally;
• Unusually still or lethargic;
• Located away from known breeding areas.
If encountering a penguin in distress, don’t attempt to handle the bird yourself. Call the APPS Emergency Line, 072 598 7117, immediately, noting the location and the bird’s condition.
Neil Jangle found this juvenile Homopus areolatus in Hermanus.
Doing their bit for environment
The Hermanus Cliff Path is one of the area’s most beautiful routes, hugging the coastline for approximately 12 km from near the New Harbour to Grotto Beach and draws thousands of people annually as it offers scenic views of Walker Bay.
Because it is such an important town landmark, also known as the best spot for land-based whale watching, it was the special focus of a clean-up operation led by Masizole Mnqasela, founder of the Alliance of Citizens for Change (ACC), on Mandela Day.
The project was organised by Phawu Lethu, a non-profit organisation dedicated to combating hunger and improving the quality of life for communities. Mnqasela is the patron of the organisation. Describing the importance of the coastal clean-up operation, he said:
“Nelson Mandela recognised the disconnectedness of social justice and environmental sustainability, emphasising that a just society requires access to a healthy environment alongside other basic necessities. He believed that environmental conservation is crucial for a better future and that human development and resource management should go hand in hand. Mandela advocated for sustainable development practices, acknowledging the potential for environmental problems to jeopardise South Africa's future.”
Mnqasela thanked the sponsors Abantu Global Solutions, Old Mutual and Burgundy restaurant for making the event possible and also all the volunteers for their assistance. Approximately 50 people joined to dedicate 67 minutes to the Cliff Path clean-up. “The rain disrupted us somewhat, but we had a successful event and managed to fill 20 black bags.”
Remembering a tragedy
Mandela Day is a day for relieving others of their burdens and/or doing something that differs far from your normal daily duties. This act of service is a way to honour Mandela’s legacy and encourages ongoing commitment to doing good.
Elderly treated, pampered
Elderly residents of Bereaville were in for a special treat on Friday 18 July, a day that is celebrated across the globe to pay tribute to former president Nelson Mandela's legacy by dedicating 67 minutes of your time to making a positive difference in your community.
Various organisations, including the Bereaville Community Forum and local churches joined forces to organise a special event during which approximately 65 elderly residents of the small settlement outside Genadendal were treated to a scrumptious breakfast before being pampered with manicures and pedicures and a tasty lunch.
Henno Sauls, the project coordinator, said they made the decision to move away from focusing on children for the
2025 Mandela Day celebrations and to instead spoil the senior residents.
"We wanted to give back to and honour our elderly for all the respect and trust they've shown us over the years.
“As the younger residents of our community, we wanted to show appreciation for all they've done for us although we know we'll never be able to fully pay them back for their contributions.
“We decided to pamper the seniors so they could feel special too," Sauls stated.
“Mandela Day is about giving back and making a difference.
“We're grateful to everyone who donated, volunteered, and contributed to make this day special for our seniors. Your help made a meaningful impact in our community."
Approximately 50 people joined the clean-up operation along the Cliff Path that was organised by Phawu Lethu and led by its patron Masizole Mnqasela, founder of the Alliance of Citizens for Change.
Various organisations and a number of volunteers joined forces to pamper the elderly residents of Bereaville on Mandela Day.
On the day, parishioners of St Patrick’s Anglican church, Mount Pleasant lay flowers on the graves of victims of the 1972 bus tragedy that claimed the lives of 53 people.
A BEAUTIFUL GARDEN
Lawn mowing, tree felling, plot clearing and refuse removal. Gutter clearing, shaping of palm trees, hedge trimming and small removals. Contact Morné from Garden king 083 225 3712.
A REMOVAL OF dangerous trees, tree trimming, plot clearance, garden maintenance, garden refuse, refuse removal, firewood. Free quotations & free delivery of firewood. Call Wilson 074 824 2195.
BUFFALO GRASS. Save water, plant indigenous grass. For the best prices, contact Chris 082 568 2592.
THE HOSPICE SHOP HERMANUS will be very grateful for any untwanted clothing, linen, bric-a-brac, furniture, sporting goods or books. Please phone to arrange collections: 028 313 1884/Shop Manager 076 509 3915.
OVERBERG PEST CONTROL cc Fumigation Specialists Including *Beetle COC's and Timber treatments *Domestic/ Commercial/Agricultural/ Pest Control
Registered with Dep Agriculture and SAPCA
Phone: 082 563 9514/ 028 316 3100
Email:opc@mweb.co.za
Overberg Pest Control Webpage: info@over bergpestcontrol.co.za
ENERGETIC MALAWIAN lady is looking for work as a domestic worker, nanny or caregiver. Good communication skills, friendly and reliable. References available. I am hardworking, take initiative in my work and flexible. Please call or WhatsApp me on 068 565 9413.
MY NAME is Ethel Pink Mubayiwa. l am a Zimbabwean lady age 39. l am looking for a full /part-me job as a domestic worker. I can work under pressure. For more information, please call or WhatsApp me on 061 686 8302.
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CASH FOR MODERN ADULT & CHILDREN'S clothes, shoes, linen & kitchenware. I also buy in Somerset West, Durbanville & Cape Town once a month. Contact Carol 082 890 5749.
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I AM A Malawian man with vast experience and knowledge, looking for a job as a driver. I have a code 10 drivers licence. I have more than 10 years experience in driving. I am an honest man and can driver different vehicles. I also experience as a chafeur and can work Monday to Friday. Willing to work odd hours. I am availble to start immediately. please call or WhatsApp me on 075 413 1075 /074 410 0546.
I AM A MALAWIAN guy age 37 looking for a job as a gardener. I have 9 years working experience. Willing to start immediately. Full /part-time. Good reference available. Please call or WhatsApp me Harry on 068 116 1119/083 755 7036
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Vyftig jaar later . . .
Oudleerders van Hawston Primêre Skool, wat gedurende 1975 tot 1977 hul skoolloopbaan in Sub A begin het, het vroeër vanjaar besluit om ’n reünie te hou en aan die werk gespring om als te beplan.
Ná baie oproepe, boodskappe en rondhardloop om voorbereidings te tref, het 22 oudleerders en oudonderwysers aan die einde van Junie by die skoolsaal saamgetrek om met nostalgie aan hul dae op die skoolbanke terug te dink.
Godfrey Matinka, een van die organiseerders, vertel hoewel hulle aanvanklik beoog het om die geselligheid te hou vir diegene wat van 1975 tot 1977 in Sub A was, was daar soveel belangstelling van ander oudleerders dat hulle besluit het om belangstellendes wat in die genoemde dekade leerders van die skool was, ook in te sluit.
“Die belangstelling en toegewydheid het gekwyn, maar gelukkig het sommige van die oudleerders besluit buig of bars, ’n reünie sal gehou word, al is dit net ’n klein groepie oudleerders,” het hy vertel.
Volgens Matinka was daar veral groot belangstelling onder oudleerders wat na die Kaapse metropool getrek het om hul hoërskoolloopbaan daar voort te sit, hul tersiêre opleiding te voltooi en hulle later daar gevestig het.
“Die inisiatief het begin by Patricia Page, wat weens
22 oudleerders
onlangs reünie gehou.
omstandighede nie haar skoolloopbaan kon voltooi nie,” het Matinka vertel.
“Ons kon met haar ywer en geesdrif ’n beplanningskomitee op die been bring, wat die leisels geneem en met insette van mede-oudleerders met die reëlings voortgegaan het.”
Die groep het ná baie harde werk uiteindelik Saterdag 28 Junie byeengekom. Daar is tydens die oggendsessie erkenning gegee aan afgetrede onderwysers – spesifiek diegene wat in die tydperk tussen 1975 en 1981 hul loopbaan as jong dinamiese onderwysers by die skool begin het.
“ ’n Bekendstelling is gedoen omdat baie van ons nie meer dieselfde gelyk het of sommige mekaar nie kon onthou nie, want dit was immers ongeveer 48 jaar gelede wat ons in Sub A was. Elke oudleerder het uitgewys wie sy of haar gunstelingonderwyser was en wie nie
so gewild was nie. Hulle het omtrent almal die pak slae wat hulle gereeld gekry het, beklemtoon en vertel hoe dit help vorm het aan die mens wat hulle vandag is,” het Matinka skertsend vertel.
Daar was groot vermaak toe almal na collages en foto’s gekyk het en herinneringe gedeel het terwyl hul versnaperings geniet het. Die groep het ook hulde gebring aan ontslape oudonderwysers en medeleerders. Daarna het die oudleerders koers gekry na Fisherhaven waar hulle verder gekuier, gebraai, musiek van die jare tagtig geluister en herinneringe gedeel het.
Hulle beplan nou om ’n opvolg-reünie te reël sodat meer oudleerders dit kan bywoon.
“Ons hoop om meer oudleerders en oudonderwysers soos juffrou Alma Bucchianneri, die oudste oorlewende onderwyser, te betrek,” het Matinka gesê.
saamtrek reeds in April –kort ná hul stigting – in die Caledon-veldblomtuin gehou.
Dié ‘ysters’ roes nog
Mitzi Buys
’n Groep oudonderwysers en oud- administratiewe personeel van Swartberg Primêr, wat hulself die Swartberg PS-Ysters noem, het hul eerste saamtrek reeds in April – kort na hul stigting – in die Caledon-veldblomtuin gehou. (“S’berg-oudonnies trek saam” Hermanus Times 21 Mei 2025).
Dié groep het hul eerste reünie tydens die winterskoolvakansie in Swartberg Primêr se skoolsaal gehou. Heerlike versnaperings was beskikbaar voordat die program amptelik met die optrede van die Marimba-orkes van Swartberg Primêr begin het. Verskeie kort toesprake is deur lede gelewer en kerse is op ’n seremoniële wyse vir ontslape kollegas aangesteek.
Dr. Jerome Joorst, ’n oud-leerder van Swartberg Primêr en Swartberg Sekondêr en tans lektor in sosiologie van
nie
opvoedkunde aan die Universiteit Stellenbosch, was die gasspreker.
Joorst, wat van Vredenburg gekom het, het in sy insiggewende toespraak genoem dat oudonderwysers met hul kennis en ervaring as biblioteke beskou kan word. Verskeie lede het van Kaapstad af gereis om die verrigtinge by te woon. ’n Interessante plakkaatuitstalling met baie foto’s van oudonderwysers en onlangse bedrywighede is opgestel. Spesiaal ontwerpe gholf-hemde met die Ysters-naam en logo is aan lede oorhandig.
Dat almal heerlik gesels en gelag en aan die ou dae teruggedink het, was ’n gegewe en almal het die oggend, wat afgesluit is met sop en tuisgebakte brood, terdeë geniet. Die volgende saamtrek word vir September beplan – ’n stoomtreinrit van Botrivier na Elgin.
• Kontak Stephen Wildschut by 063 324 2723 vir besonderhede.
Altesaam
wat van 1975-1977 hul skoolloopbaan aan Hawston Primêre Skool begin het, het
’n Groep oudonderwysers en oud- administratiewe personeel van Swartberg Primêr, wat hulself die Swartberg PS-Ysters noem, het hul eerste
Curro Hermanus u-13 hockey players receive new kits
Laerskool Hermanus het vier hokkiespelers gehad wat die afgelope vakansie Boland verteenwoordig het. Die skool is baie trots op Miné Groenewald, Nina Mostert, Dion Thorpe en Mulisa Tshisaphungo.
LS Hermanus en Curro Durbanville sak saam
Die o.13-span van die Laerskool Hermanus het teen Curro Durbanville kragte gemeet en 17-14 gewen.
LS Hermanus in Boland-hokkie
Curro Hermanus would like to thank Panarottis Pizza & Pasta in the Whale Coast Mall for sponsoring its u-13 hockey boys and girls with hockey bags and caps. “We are thankful for your unwavering support of our teams and school,” the school added. Pictured with the teams are Chris Lochner and Riaan Schutte of Panarottis Pizza & Pasta at Whale Coast Mall.
Die Hoërskool Hermanus se tennistalent ken ook geen perke nie en vyf van hul spelers het die Wes-Kaapse Kavalierspan (Boland) vandag by die jaarlikse dubbels- en gemengde dubbels-toernooi teen WP verteenwoordig. Bo links is die o.19-spelers Surita Lamprecht, Jean Joubert en Sophia Thorpe.
James Bishop en Sophia Geldenhuys van die Hoërskool Hermanus het die Boland-tennisspan in die o.15-afdeling verteenwoordig.
Briewe van ons lesers | Letters from our readers
Erf net reg vir broeiplek vir bosslapers
Ek merk met misnoeë die agteruitgang van die erf op die hoek van Radynstraat en Ou Hoofweg, wat besoekers aan Onrus “verwelkom”.
As nabygeleë eiendomseienaar het ek ongeveer ses maande gelede ’n skrywe van die Overstrand-munisipaliteit ontvang om te hoor of ek beswaar maak teen ’n voorgenome ontwikkeling op die perseel. Die voorstelling is ’n netjiese ontwerp vir die ontwikkeling van ongeveer 10 huise, met ’n toegangsroete, wat myns insiens ’n baie groot verbetering sou wees teenoor die vervalle “kasteel” wat lankal ’n pyn vir die
gemeenskap is.
Groot is my verbasing egter toe ek opmerk dat daar dadels van die ontwikkeling gekom het en dat die eiendom weer in die mark is, maar nou in ’n absolute toestand van verwaarlosing is. Die omheiningsdrade is vervalle, die “kasteel” lyk soos ’n spookhuis en die gras en onkruid staan hemelhoog.
Dit is een van die eerste indrukke wat ’n besoeker van Onrus kry en is werklik afbrekend vir ons pragtige dorpie.
Ek verneem (hoe waar dit is, staan ek nie voor in nie) dat ’n beswaar teen die voorgestelde ontwikkeling ingedien
is omdat ’n skaars plant op die eindom aangetref is. As dit die waarheid is, sal ’n mens verwag dat sodanige beswaarmaker dan ook verantwoordelikheid sal neem vir die gevolge van die beswaar en nie sal toelaat dat die skaars plant, saam met die res van die eiendom, ’n steen des aanstoots vir die gemeenskap word nie. Ek vertrou dat hierdie skrywe die verantwoordelike owerheid tot verantwoording sal roep om iets aan die onhoudbare situasie te doen, wat eersdaags in ’n skuilplek vir bosslapers sal ontaard. Serf Hurter ONRUS
Marine research is key to conservation
I would just like to enlighten folks unfamiliar with sightings of research vessels in the area by adding the following in support of marine research, often conducted from aboard research vessels such as the FRV Ellen Khuzwayo, which may be perceived by the layman as “intrusive to their favourite spot” in the coastal environment where they reside or are visiting. Marine research is crucial for understanding and sustainably managing the ocean, its resources and its role in the global environment. It provides vital knowledge for addressing climate change, protecting biodiversity and supporting a sustainable blue economy.
Furthermore, marine research is essential for informing policy decisions, enhancing public awareness and fostering international collaboration.
Wat ons lesers sê
Nuwe Afrikakampioen in die wolke oor prestasie
• Keep on, young man, you’ll get to 2.1m. Congratulations on your achievement.
The STIMULUS COFFEE AND CONVERSATION GROUP meets every Wednesday at 10:30 at Lizette’s restaurant in Voëlklip. The group’s aim is to discuss serious issues with thoughtful people for fun. Enquiries: Trevor at base37@gmail.com or 083 441 1721.
THURSDAY 31 JULY
Make up a team of up to six participants and join the WHALE COAST WIZ QUIZ every Thursday during the month of July at Theo’s Taverna in Hermanus. The theme is: A Chappies Quiz Night with a Greek twist. Participants are to arrive from 18:00 for the quiz that kicks off at 19:00. It costs R50 per person. The winning team gets 15% off their bill. Enquiries: Janet on 082 456 8091 or email stargazer4promotions@gmail.com
VRYDAG 1 AUGUSTUS
Moenie die gewilde KALFIEFEES van 1-10 Augustus misloop nie. Die fees vier hierdie jaar sy 25ste bestaansjaar met 10 dae propvol kuns, teater, musiek, drama, kinderteater en leefstylaktiwiteite vir oud en jonk. Besoek www.kalfiefees-hermanus.co.za vir die feesprogram.
Don’t miss the opening of the ARTISTS @ THE QUAY art exhibition, that forms part of the Kalfiefees Arts Festival. The opening of the exhibition is at 16:00 in the Multipurpose Centre in the New Harbour, Hermanus.
The Department of Cultural Affairs and Sport, in conjunction with the Overberg District Municipality and Theewaterskloof Municipality, hosts a DRAMA FESTIVAL in the Caledon Town Hall. The performances will kick off at 14:00. Enquiries: Deirdré Barends at dbarends@odm.org.za or 028 050 0915 or Moeniel Jacobs at Moeniel. Jacobs@westerncape.gov.za or 021 483 9550.
SATURDAY 2 AUGUST
Handmade items, homemade goodies, a leka vibe and more at the BETTY’S BAY MARKET from 10:00 - 15:00 in the Crassula Hall. Enquiries: Shameez on 073 199 0896.
KUJIRA BONSAI KAI se maandelikse vergadering begin om 15:00 in die St Peter’s-kerksaal in Hermanus. Willem Pretorius, bonsaikenner van Somerset-Wes, sal ’n praatjie en illustrasie lewer oor hoe om dooie hout ’n kenmerk in jou boom te maak. Navrae: Wander Bester by 076 810 0885.
FRIDAY 8 AUGUST
Mount Pleasant Primary invites you to dance the night away to the music of THE ELGINAIRS who will be performing live. The event is from 19:00 at the Moffat Hall in Mount Pleasant. Tickets cost R80 per person and are available at the school or from educators. Remember to take your own snacks and XYZ.
Join the Genadendal Mission Museum as it honours the women whose stories shaped generations with ALMAL SE STOEPSTORIES from 13:00
- 15:00 at the museum. Expect laughter, tears, wisdom, and authentic community storytelling. Visit the Genadendal Mission Museum Facebook page or call 028 050 2766 for more info.
The Hermanus Art Circle presents a special ART EXHIBITION from 8-10 August at the Whale House Auditorium. The exhibition is from 10:0016:00 every day. Enquiries: 083 630 8334.
Seniors verken Kaapstad
23 lede van Protea-dienssentrum in Caledon het onlangs ’n onvergeetlike uitstappie na Kaapstad onderneem waar hulle een van die bekende Rooibustoere meegemaak het. Marlene Rousseau, bestuurder van die dienssentrum, sê die weer was perfek, want geen wind, mis of reën het hul dag bederf nie. Die uitstappie, wat die lede terdeë geniet het, is met ’n heerlike ete in Houtbaai afgesluit.
Comedy Gold with Committie
See award-winning funnyman Alan Committie live in Hermanus, where he will bring his new show exclusively to the Road House Cinema at the Whale Coast Mall for one night only, on Friday 1 August.
Returning to the stage in his 27th solo stand-up comedy show, he takes aim at the hilarious chaos of modern life.
From elections and appalling selections, to deleted WhatsApp messages, not to mention Olympic shenanigans and dieticians, it promises all the customary wordplay, physical hi-jinx and surreal detours into fresh perspectives one associates with this jester.
Expect his trademark lightning-fast verbal volleyball and yes, there will be flipcharts... possibly even three.
“It’s a triptych of flipchart mind maps,” Committie pointed out, “a feat never attempted by any sane person. It’s school stationery taken to a new level. No CNA, just RSA.”
Directed by Chris Weare, this sharp, energetic show promises a gold-medal comedy experience – live and unfiltered.
Don’t miss this exclusive opportunity to catch Committie live in Hermanus.
• Visit the Road House Cinema’s box office in the foyer of Whale Coast Mall to purchase tickets or go to the Road House Cinema website to buy tickets online.
Koskuier by Kalfiefees gaan ’n wenner wees
Nog ’n eerste vir die Kalfiefees vanjaar is iets waarna baie uitsien.
Dit is die Kalfie-koskuier, wat daagliks van 2 tot 10 Augustus in die Grobbelaarsaal sal plaasvind.
Dié koskuier word deur Son en See aangebied en bied elke dag huisbederfies soos beskuit, olywe, neute, marmelade, konfyt, jenewer en likeurs asook dadelbrood en nog meer.
Dan is daar nog wegneemetes waaraan jy daagliks kan smul, of as jy
wil aansit, kan jy dit ook doen. Die wegneemetes sluit onder meer boepensbroodjies, pannekoeke, kerrie-vetkoeke, kerrie en rys, hoenderburger en chips, toebroodjies, shwarmas, burgers, boereworsrolle en koffie en tee in. Wynproe en koeldranke is ook beskikbaar.
Moenie hierdie heerlike saamkuiergeleentheid misloop nie!
• Skakel 071 520 4012 vir nog inligting.
Award-winning funnyman Alan Committie
Klub bly oor nuwe borg
Genadendal-rugbyklub, wat al ouer as 'n kwart eeu is, vervul nie net 'n belangrike rol in die omgewing nie, maar het ook 'n positiewe invloed op die gemeenskap.
En net soos die dorpie 'n ryk geskiedenis het – selfs oudpresident Nelson Mandela het sy amptelike woning na Genadendal vernoem – het die rugbyklub ook al diep spore in die gemeenskap getrap.
“Die klub is in 1998 gestig en ding goed mee teen ander spanne in die Overberg, soos Safcol, Caledon en Botrivier.
"Ons klub bestaan op die oomblik uit 110 lede, van wie 92 geregistreerde rugbyspelers vir die Boland-rugbyunie is. Ons is trots om te kan sê ons speel in die Boland-Grootuitdaag-reeks," het 'n woordvoerder van die klub gesê. 'n Groot eer het die klub onlangs te beurt geval toe 'n besigheid, Origin, as die klub se nuwe borg na vore gekom het. Origin spesialiseer in die aanbied van feeste oor die land heen.
Die maatskappy beskryf hom as een van Afrika se opkomende maatskappye wat psigedeliese musiek, kuns en kultuur wêreldwyd wil bevorder.
"Ons by Origin streef daarna om vrede, liefde, eenheid en respek vir almal aan te moedig. Alle gemeenskappe is vir ons belangrik en ons is bevoorreg om elke jaar 'n deel van ons winste aan ontwikkelingsprojekte te kan bied."
Volgens die bestuur van die Genadendal-rugbyklub kon die skenking nie op 'n
beter tyd gekom het nie. "As die bestuur van Genadendal wil ons graag Origin en veral Reagon Tacon vir die borgskap bedank.
“Dis vir ons 'n riem onder die hart dat die maatskappy hom met 'n klein klub soos Genadendal wil verbind. Die borgskap sluit onder meer toerusting, rugbytruie, rugbybroeke en oefentruie in."
Volgens die bestuur is hulle baie dankbaar oor die borgskap, maar eintlik teleurgesteld in ander maatskappye in die Overberg wat nie plaaslike spanne wil borg nie.
"Maatskappye in die Overberg kan gerus by Origin leer. Die borgskap van Origin het 'n groot invloed op die moraal van die gemeenskap ook. In 'n dorp waar die jongmense sukkel om 'n plek te vind waar hulle voel hulle behoort, het die borgskap daartoe bygedra dat die jeug positief is om met die klub verbind te word.
"Origin het ook bygedra dat die klub 'n veilige hawe vir jong mense kan wees en dat hulle iets het om voor te werk."
Vir 'n klein dorpie wat teen spanne soos Hawston, Caledon en Grabouw moet meeding en waar werkloosheid aan die orde van dag is, speel die sportklub 'n groot rol in die gemeenskap.
"Meer as 60% van ons klublede is werkloos of seisoenwerkers en ons verwelkom enige skenking om ons jeug te motiveer om aan sport deel te neem. Ons as klub glo dat sport een van die sterkste wapens is om die huidige euwels te beveg."
Die Genadendal-rugbyklub is baie trots op hul nuwe truie, wat deur Origin geborg is.
Talle klubspelers van die Overberg, wat in die Curriebeker-reeks speel wat die afgelope naweek afgeskop het, het uitgeblink.
Die Bredasdorp Rangers het twee spelers, wat in 2023 vir hulle gespeel het, wat vir die WP en die Boland in die Curriebeker-reeks gaan uitdraf.
Die Bredasdorp Rangers het op sy Facebookblad gesê: “Die Curriebeker wink vir twee voormalige Rangers-A-spanspelers van 2023, wat nou hul onderskeie provinsiale unies verteenwoordig. Erhard Lambrecht, tans ’n belowende jong klubspeler in die Kaap, is in die Westelike Provinsie se Curriebeker-groep opgeneem. Sy neef Erik Lambrecht, onder plaaslike ondersteuners beter bekend as ‘Die Wit Tier’, het ’n onvergeetlike drie gedruk in die laaste ronde van die SA Beker teen die Oostelike Provinsie, wat gehelp het om die Boland-Kavaliers se plek in die Curriebeker-premierliga te verseker – hul eerste deelname sedert 2016.”
Intussen het die Sanlam-Boland-Kavaliers sy terugkeer na die Curriebeker se premierafdeling die afgelope Sondag (28 Julie) op die mees opwindende wyse gevier – met ’n 37-35-oorwinning teen die ToyotaCheetahs in Wellington. Dit is die span se eerste verskyning op beker-vlak sedert 2016 en sy prestasie is veel meer as net ’n sportoorwinning – dis ’n gemeenskapsoomblik van trots en vasberadenheid.
Met die skare op hul voete by die Boland-stadion in Wellington het Boland sy stempel vinnig afgedruk. James Tedder het twee vroeë strafdoele oorgeklits en Ashlon Davids het die eerste drie van die wedstryd aangeteken. Selfs toe die Cheetahs teenstand bied en kort voor rustyd die voortou neem, het Boland
se veggees die weg gebaan vir David Brits en Davids se tweede drie, wat die Kavaliers teen rustyd 27-14 laat voorloop het.
Die tweede helfte was ’n intense stryd tussen die twee spanne, met die Cheetahs wat die aanvoerwerk gedoen het. Die Vrystaters het met hul reserwekrag druk op die Kavaliers voorlangs geplaas, en ná drieë deur Carel-Jan Coetzee, Gideon Van der Merwe en Vernon Paulo, het die Kavaliers ’n 35-27-voorsprong gehad – met slegs vyf
minute op die stophorlosie oor. Die Kavaliers het nie net die wenpunte behaal nie, maar met hierdie oorwinning ook sy tande gewys en kennis gegee dat hulle hul als in vanjaar se Curriebeker-reeks gaan gee.
Puntemakers – SanlamBoland Kavaliers 37 (27): Drieë: Ashlon Davids (2), David Brits, Marcqiewn Titus en Donovan Don. Doelskoppe: James Tedder (3). Strafdoele: Tedder (2).
• Intussen is die Overberg-
Klubspelers beïndruk
rugbygemeenskap geskok nadat James Jonas (44), wat vir Kleinmond se derde span teen Genadendal uitgedraf het, kort ná die wedstryd oorlede is. ’n Verklaring deur die Boland-rugbyunie (BRU) lui dat die eerste span se kragmeting wat daarna sou volg, “uit respek vir Jonas, sy geliefdes en die wyer rugbygemeenskap” afgelas is.
Die BRU het ook sy medelye met Jonas se gesin, vriende en spanmaats in die verklaring betuig en geskryf: “Met groot
hartseer neem die Boland-rugbyunie kennis van die tragiese afsterwe van James Jonas, ’n speler van die Kleinmondrugbyvoetbalklub, wat Saterdag 26 Julie ná ’n wedstryd in die Grootuitdaag-reeks tussen Kleinmond-RVK en Genadendal-RVK oorlede is. Ons gedagtes is veral by sy vrou en twee kinders, wat op die dag van die wedstryd daar was om hom te ondersteun en hom te sien doen waarvoor hy so lief was – rugby speel.” Jonas, 44, wat in Genadendal gebore is en skoolgegaan het, is beskryf as ’n toegewyde rugbyspeler wat die Kleinmondrugbyklub met ywer en passie verteenwoordig het. “James se verbintenis met albei klubs het hom ’n bekende en gerespekteerde figuur in die streek gemaak,” het BRU in die verklaring gesê.
Bennie van Rooi, die president van die BRU, het bygevoeg: “Ons harte is seer oor die verlies van een van ons eie. James Jonas het nie net sy klub nie, maar die hele Boland-rugbyfamilie met sy teenwoordigheid verryk. Ons dra ons opregte meegevoel aan sy vrou, kinders, familie en almal wat hom liefgehad het, oor. Mag hulle troos vind in sy nalaten- skap en die herinnering aan sy onwrikbare gees.”
Basil Swartz, die voorsitter van die Kleinmond-RVK, het die volgende bygevoeg: “James was ’n ware rugbyman; lojaal, nederig en altyd bereid om alles vir sy klub te gee. Sy afsterwe laat ’n leemte wat moeilik gevul sal word. Ons klub treur saam met sy gesin en ons rugbybroers van Genadendal. Ons sal hom onthou as ’n man van integriteit, toewyding en ware sportmangees.”
Verskeie rugbyklubs van oor die Overberg heen het ook op sosiale media hulde aan James gebring.
