WaterspillfloodsHankeyhomesafterpumpfailure
RAZAAN PLAATJIES
THE Gamtoos Water Users' Association has set the record straight after water from the Gamtoos Canal spilt into homes in Hankey, on September 16, forcing residents to take time off work to clean up wet carpets and mattresses after a pump failure caused the waterway to overflow
According to an anonymous resident, the incident occurred on a partly cloudy morning, with rain beginning to fall after water had already entered the affected properties
The resident said that after water entered the affected homes, they were informed that it was the Gamtoos Canal water pumps that caused the water spillage
"There wasn't any huge damage, just carpets and mattresses that were very wet," the resident said "Some of the residents had to take the day off to move their furniture and clean up the mess "
ArborMonth celebratedwith treeplantingdrive
KOUGA Local Municipality marked Arbor Month in true green spirit this week, joining hands with Impofu Windfarm to plant trees across all towns in the region – reinforcing its commitment to environmental sustainability and community upliftment
Observed throughout September, Arbor Month in South Africa is a national celebration of trees, biodiversity, and environmental stewardship In Pellsrus, in a park along Duine Road, Kouga Deputy Executive Mayor, Timothy Jantjes, rolled up his sleeves to plant one of the 91 trees received through the initiative
“South Africa faces a shortage of trees, particularly indigenous species,” said Jantjes “It’s vital that we protect and sustain the green lungs of our communities On behalf of Executive Mayor Hattingh Bornman and the Mayoral Committee, we are proud to partner with organisations like Impofu Windfarm and SPP Their support is invaluable in our shared mission to safeguard the environment ” Christa Venter, Kouga’s Manager for Waste and Environmental Management, added that the municipality has been challenged to contribute 2,000 trees towards the national goal of planting 10 million trees countrywide
“We’ve already made a start in Humansdorp,” said Venter “Impofu Windfarm has generously provided 50 workers until December to assist with alien vegetation clearing and beautification efforts And that’s just the beginning – we’re launching several more projects together ”
One such initiative is "Love Thornhill", which aims to enhance the visual appeal of Thornhill by upgrading its two main entrances
“It’s about creating pride and making our towns more welcoming,” Venter explained “We are actively building partnerships that benefit our communities and strengthen environmental resilience ”
Representing external stakeholders, Barbara Bere from SPP expressed gratitude for being part of the green movement
“We’re honoured to collaborate with Kouga Municipality on such an impactful initiative,” she said “Even the smallest contribution – be it trees, tools, or fertiliser – can make a meaningful difference Trees are nature’s purifiers, and we’re proud to support this cause ”
Among the indigenous and beneficial species planted were Wild Plum, Indian Laurel, Wild Camphor and White Pear –each chosen for their environmental value and adaptability to the local climate
This year’s Arbor Month initiative stands as a testament to what can be achieved when municipalities, private partners, and community members come together for a greener, healthier future
Rienette Colesky, CEO of the Gamtoos Water Association, said the situation had been exaggerated and blown out of proportion, while emphasising that no injuries were reported
"Personally, I think the entire situation has been exaggerated It has been handled," said Colesky
She explained that the spill occurred when a pump failed at an automatic sluice system
"The pump failed The chamber flooded, and the automatic sluice could not open or close, so it pushed water into the K Canal more than it could take, and it spilt " She further said that the affected section was a branch canal that services the Kleinrivier area, much smaller than the main canal system
Colesky said that when the pump failure occurred, excess water could not be diverted to a scour canal due to the proximity of the Blinkdorp informal settlement "Because Blinkdorp has been extended to the perimeters of our canal, we redirect the water into the main canal because there is nowhere to pump it," said
Colesky
She emphasised that the Kouga Municipality bears responsibility for allowing informal settlements to develop near critical water infrastructure Colesky further said that the Water Association recently removed an informal settlement built directly on the Hankey pipeline
"The big question that should be asked is why the Kouga Municipality allows informal settlements to settle in high-risk areas," said Colesky
After the spillage on 16 September, she said that they responded immediately to assist affected families, providing 16 mattresses and food hampers to the four informal settlements impacted by the overflow
"We have been on site from the moment that we became aware of the situation," said Colesky
She said that the Water Association maintains early warning systems across the entire network from Kouga Dam to the Loerie to monitor water levels and prevent such inci-
dents Colesky further said that the association is now installing additional monitoring equipment, having purchased two data loggers for the K Canal to better track water levels in the area
She said that two water control officers are stationed next to the canal, with one located at the main canal and the other at the K Canal, to prevent and mitigate incidents like the one that occurred on 16 September
While this was an unprecedented event, Colesky assured that proper safety measures are typically in place and that education programmes are ongoing throughout the valley, including visits to 11 schools to warn learners about the dangers of swimming in canal systems
Kouga Municipality Deputy Executive Mayor, Timothy Jantjes, said that the municipality is currently in the process of formalising the Blinkdorp informal settlement
"The necessary authorisations were received for formalisation of the township," said Jantjes
Tavernownerslearnthevalueofcomplianceandcleanpractices
KWANOMZAMO Hall in Humansdorp was a
hive of activity on Thursday, 25 September 2025, as between 30 and 40 tavern and shebeen owners from the Kouga region gathered for an important environmental health and awareness workshop hosted by the Kouga Local Municipality’s Environmental Health Section
The workshop formed part of activities aligned to World Environmental Health Day, observed on 26 September, and to improve health, safety, and hygiene in liquor establishments across the region
The session became a lively exchange of ideas, with tavern owners asking questions about how to balance their daily business realities with strict health and safety regulations Their eagerness to learn underscored a growing com-
mitment to ensuring that patrons are served in an environment that is safe, clean, and legally compliant
Representatives from several key stakeholders were present, including the Eastern Cape Liquor Board, Kouga Environmental Health Practitioners, Fire Services, and the Waste Management Unit Ward 6 Councillor Kholisile Ndzelani also attended
Keylessonsandbenefits:
• Health and Hygiene Compliance: Owners learned the importanceofmeetinghygienestandards,fromproperventilationandilluminationtocleanablutionfacilities
• Environmental Protection: Presentations emphasised recycling and waste management helping businesses contributetothefightagainstillegaldumpingandpollution
• FireandSafetyMeasures:FireServicessharedpractical adviceonhowtokeeppatronssafeincaseofemergencies Legal Compliance: The Eastern Cape Liquor Board clarified licensing responsibilities and the consequences of neglectingthem
The Kouga Local Municipality Deputy Executive Mayor, Timothy Jantjes, said the municipality was encouraged by the turnout: “When tavern owners take ownership of their role in community health and safety, everybody benefits The engagement was proof that together we can build safer and healthier social spaces ” The workshop ended with a clear message: creating safer, cleaner taverns is not just about compliance with laws, but about respecting and uplifting the community that supports these businesses
mmakersto talentatbootcamp
flects their commitment to nurturing local talent, reducing youth unemployment, and building a vibrant creative hub in Kouga
"Through workshops, mentorship, and the production of short films, participants will gain exposure to the creative industries, opening doors to future career opportunities," said Geswint
The intensive boot camp will provide training in acting, scriptwriting, cinematography, directing and teamwork
Geswint said that each team will create their own short film, which will premiere at the Youth Film Festival, where the winning film will be awarded a filmmaker's kit packed with cameras and gear to kickstart their creative journey
He said that the programme targets learners from four schools in Kouga Municipality and two schools in Kou-Kamma Municipality
"The skills development initiative is designed to inspire and empower young people in the Kouga and Kou-Kamma region while fostering teamwork, discipline and cultural pride," said Geswint
The Ubuntu Youth Bootcamp will culminate in a Film Festival Showcase in December 2025, where learners' work will be presented to the community, stakeholders, and potential industry partners
Geswint said that those who are interested in sponsoring the project will see their company logo added to every short film which will be shared on their social media platform and website
"The festival is expected to attract an audience of 500 to 600 community members and will feature a red-carpet experience, guest speakers, awards, trophies, and live performances," said Geswint
He said that the National Film and Video Foundation (NFVF) serves as the primary sponsor for the project, with its logo featuring on all marketing and media platforms
Geswint said that the school that produces the best short film will receive a DSLR camera with a condenser microphone to continue their filmmaking journey
Windturbinetechniciantraining programmedoublesintake
NOW in its second year, the programme has welcomed four young electricians, Simanyene Blouw (24), Lungelwa Magobiyana (30), and Siyamthanda Ngculu (31) from Humansdorp, together with Chuma Lugogwana (29) from Jeffreys Bay
Selected from more than 300 applicants, they are part of the initiative funded by Jeffreys Bay Wind Farm Ngculu, one of the three female trainees, explained how the programme combines electrical, mechanical and hydraulic theory she has learned in the classroom with a real-life environment
"This training combines my classroom knowledge with hands-on practice in troubleshooting and servicing electrical systems I look forward to the opportunity to learn how turbines operate, practice maintenance on real components, and develop essential safety skills such as working at heights and performing emergency rescues," said Ngculu Trainees will receive an accredited Quality Council of Trades and Occupations (QCTO) Occupational Certificate: Wind Turbine Service Technician upon completion of the programme
The training, developed by the South African Renewable Energy Technology Centre (SARETEC), a division of the Cape Peninsula University of Technology (CPUT), includes both theoretical and practical components
The six-month course is followed by a twomonth workplace experiential learning phase, which will take place on-site at Jeffreys Bay Wind Farm, providing these young electricians with real-world experience
Nonini Makhothe, Economic Development Specialist at Jeffreys Bay Wind Farm, highlighted the strong potential within the surrounding communities and the wind farm's commitment to supporting more local technicians:
"The success of this programme's first year has shown us just how much potential there is within our communities, and just how capable our young people are Even more encouraging is the number of young people who applied this year, demonstrating their determination to be part of the renewable energy sector Their success has inspired us to keep expanding the programme, so that even more local technicians can gain skills, find opportunities, and secure futures in this industry," said Makhothe
This year's group follows on from last year's intake, which included two female electricians, both from the Humansdorp community They recently graduated and hope to take up positions in the industry, carrying this additional qualification with them as they build their careers
The Jeffreys Bay Wind Farm's Wind Turbine Technician Training Programme is open to applicants from the communities surrounding the wind farm, including Thornhill, Jeffreys Bay, Humansdorp, Hankey, Patensie and Lourie
All participants require prior qualifications, such as an NQF Level 4 in Electrician (Light Voltage, Medium Voltage, High Voltage), Mechatronics, Millwright, Fitters and Turners, or a National Diploma in Mechanical, Electrical, or Mechatronics
From left are Chuma Lugogwana, Lungelwa Magobiyana, Simanyene Blouw and Siyamthanda Ngculu. PHOTO: SUPPLIED
The stars of Eastern Cape tourism were celebrated in style at the inaugural Eastern Cape Tourism Awards, held at Mentors Country Estate in Jeffreys Bay on 27 September 2025 Hosted in partnership with Kouga Local Municipality, the awards recognised outstanding businesses, organisations and individuals who continue to position the Eastern Cape as a premier tourism destination
Best Hotel & Resort: Courtyard Hotel Gqeberha a Digital Tourism Influencer of the Year: The Real Travel Guy T R
Overlooking the turquoise waters of the Ind an Ocean, The Sands @ St Francis Bay offers a refined barefoot luxury experience in the heart of the Eastern Cape’s charming coastal village This ntimate five-room guest house combines contemporary elegance with the warmth of South Afr
Tourism Award: Stormsriver T : Stor i Adventures s
heart of the Tsitsikamma, is a Fair Trade Tourism-certified company offer ng guided hikes interpretive forest drives, immersive cultural experiences, and educational eco-journeys Committed to sustainability the company reinvests significantly n job creation skills development and community up iftment s
Eastern Cape Tourism Awards 2025 - Winners
Tour Operator of the Year: Awehness Travel
EasternCapetourismstarsshinebrightatinauguralawards
THE Eastern Cape’s tourism stars were celebrated in style at the inaugural Eastern Cape Tourism Awards, held at Mentors Country Estate on 27 September 2025
Hosted in partnership with Kouga Local Municipality as the proud naming partner, the event marked a historic milestone in recognising and showcasing the province’s finest tourism offerings
The celebration brought together businesses, industry leaders, and community organisations, creating a powerful platform for collaboration, innovation, and investment
From luxury hotels to cultural gems, from adventure operators to future leaders in tourism, the awards highlighted the extraordinary diversity and excellence that position the Eastern Cape as a premier tourism destination
Anightofcelebrationandreflection
Opening the evening, Kouga Executive Deputy Mayor, Timothy Jantjes, set the tone for the celebration by highlighting the importance of the inaugural Eastern Cape Tourism Awards
“We are not only celebrating excellence in tourism but also writing history together, right here in our beautiful province,” Jantjes said “This is a moment that belongs to all of us – whether you are an influencer, a business owner, an established tourism enterprise, or a
community organisation Each of you play a vital role in weaving the story of the Eastern Cape, a story that is rich, diverse, and undeniably inspiring ”
Reflecting on the province’s natural and cultural treasures, he added: “Our province is extraordinary – from the rolling mountains to pristine coastlines, from our game reserves to our historic towns and villages
But what truly sets the Eastern Cape apart is our people The warmth, authenticity, and creativity of our communities turn every visit into a lasting memory
Tourism is about more than experiences; it is about the jobs created, the businesses supported, and the pride that fills every community welcoming visitors to share in what we have to offer ”
ElevatingtheEasternCape
Turning to the broader impact of tourism, he emphasised its role as a driver of growth
“Beyond the laughter and the adventures lies a serious truth: tourism is an engine for growth in our province It is a sector that connects rural and urban, heritage and modernity, small businesses and global travellers It is an industry that has shown resilience in the face of challenges and one that continues to innovate with eco-tourism, cultural tourism, township tourism, and sustainable tourism leading the way ”
He concluded by commending the awards’ role in elevating the province: “The Eastern Cape is home to world-class attractions, and it was an honour to shine a spotlight on the incredible people and businesses driving our tourism success This event was not only about recognising excellence, but also about positioning the Eastern Cape as a leading destination for both business and leisure tourism
“The momentum generated here will continue to boost investment, increase visitor numbers, and ensure that our tourism industry thrives long into the future ”
Awardhighlights
Categories were carefully curated to reflect the vibrancy of the industry, with winners announced across accommodation, attractions, culinary experiences, cultural heritage, sustainability and innovation Special recognition was also given to the Future Leaders in Tourism – young professionals under 35 shaping the industry’s future
Thewinnersare:
• BestHotel&Resort: Courtyard Hotel,Gqeberha
• Best Guesthouse and B&B: The Sands @ St Francis Bay
• Best Backpacker / Self-Catering: Tube & Axe Backpackers & Lodge
• BestLodgeStay: Kuzuko Lodge
• DigitalTourismInfluenceroftheYear:TheRealTravel Guy
• SustainableTourismAward: Stormsriver Adventures
• Outstanding Culinary Experience & Restaurants: Awehness Travel
• Ultimate Adventure Attraction: Face Adrenalin Bloukrans Bungy
• ExceptionalSafari&GameParkExperience: Pumba Private Game Reserve
• TourOperatoroftheYear: Awehness Travel
• Unique Agri-Tourism Experience: Pabala Private Nature Reserve
• Iconic Cultural & Heritage Experience: Tsitsikamma Indigenous Tours
• PremierConference&EventsVenue: The Boardwalk International Convention Centre
• Events & Conference Organiser of the Year: Boast Events
• FutureLeadersinTourism: Zibonele Mdletshe
Lookingahead
The resounding success of the first-ever Eastern Cape Tourism Awards has cemented its place on the provincial tourism calendar Organisers have already begun preparations to make the 2026 edition even bigger, drawing more businesses, investors and visitors to experience all that the province has to offer
“The Eastern Cape Tourism Awards is more than just an awards ceremony – it is a movement to celebrate, support, and grow tourism in our province,” Jantjes added
RainbowSkillsCentre’snewlunchroomtoservecommunity
RAZAAN PLAATJIES
THE Victory4All Foundation has unveiled its newest project, a specialised lunchroom at Humansdorp's Rainbow Skills Centre that will serve as both a training facility for young adults with disabilities and a community service initiative, such as serving senior citizens who cannot afford dining at local restaurants
Victory4All was established in 2003 by Johan Vos and his wife, Astrid, in a bid to break the cycle of poverty by providing Christian-based quality education
The Rainbow Skills Centre is one of the many programmes which form part of Victory4All
The Rainbow Skills Centre lunchroom, which was officially launched on 1 October, International Day of Older Persons, represents a unique approach to addressing two critical community needs, skills development for youth with disabilities and social support for senior citizens
Johan said that through this lunchroom training programme, the students will learn all the needed skills to work in a restaurant or in the kitchen of a restaurant, including hospitality, communication, teamwork, multitasking, time management, food safety and problem-solving
The Rainbow Skills Centre, established in 2018, was created to provide additional training for learners from the Rainbow Centre who age out of the programme at around 18 years old
"The practical and social skills the young people learn at the Skills Centre help reduce their distance from the job market They love learning things here that they never thought possible," said Vos
"We hope and pray that the young trainees will receive hope through these programmes, and this will help them find a job and earn an income "
Vos further said that they have always want-
China’nwonderwêreldvirplaaslikeegpaar
VERONICA FOURIE
DIE Goosen familie van Jeffreysbaai het onlangs 'n besoek gebring aan hulle dogter Dedre Breitenbach in China, waar sy en haar gesin tans in die stad, Dalian, woon
Dis in die verre noordoostelike deel van China, baie na aan Noord-Korea Om daar te kom, moes Deon en Dalien Goosen altesaam 24 ure op vliegtuie deurbring
“Vir twee 70-plus jariges was die reuse lughawens van Doha en Beijing nogal uitdagend, hoewel pragtige geboue,” vertel Deon
Hulle vertel met entoesiasme oor die kultuurverskille Dalian (uitgespreek Da-li-hen) het ongeveer sewe miljoen mense, is een van die beste toeriste stede in China, en ook die stad met die meeste parke en sommer 'n klomp titels bv national Forest City 2011, Ecological China City Award 2011, Happiest City in China 2014, Beautiful Landscape City 2017, National Civilised City vir vyf jaar na mekaar, en die 2024 East Asian Cultural Capitol “Dis voorwaar 'n pragtige stad met die mooiste blomme en bome langs die strate,” sê Deon
Hy sê hulle kleinseun, Janco, ry met 'n tipiese geel skoolbus na sy Amerikaanse skool – spesiaal vir Westerlinge wat daar werk “Ons het in die nabygelëe park gaan stap en kennis gemaak met die Chinese leefstyl Oral in die park is groot oop areas waar mense draf, sing en dans Soms in groepe of alleen Niemand steur hulle aan mekaar nie Dis maar net ons Westerlinge wat ons verstom aan al die ‘vreemdhede’; In die gees van vakansie het sommer self ook 'n paar draaie op die oop dansbaan gemaak!
Later het ons gaan voete natmaak in die Geelsee Ons het ook Klein Venesië besoek met waterstrate en gondels – nes die ware Jakob ”
Kos,teeenmarkte
Die vreemde kos kan enige toeris laat neusoptrek Sommige restaurante is warm sonder lugreëling terwyl die kwik tot sowat 37 grade C styg en die sweet mens aftap “Ons eet lang noedels uit strooibakkies met stokkies!
Mens leer egter gou om eerder jou kop te sak na die kos toe en dit op te slurp instede van om dit sonder n gemors na jou mond toe te probeer bring Die warm sop daarby brand behoorlik die velle van jou lippe af!”
Die Goosens het ook 'n tradisionele ‘Seal Carving’ werkswinkel bygewoon Die Chinese karakters vir jou naam word in klip uitgekerf en as stempel gebruik vir veral kunswerke en seëls op briewe
Die blomme-, groente-, en straatmarkte was ‘n belewenis So ook die vleismarkte Dalien het 'n Chinese tee-maak en –proesessie bygewoon, en met 'n pragtige Chinese teepotjie huistoe gekom
otice is hereby given
in terms of regulation 41(2), as published in the 2014 Environmental Impact Assessment (EIA) regulations (as amended) of the National Environmental Management Act (NEMA) (Act No. 107 of 1998, as amended), for proposed construction of a ve-storey hotel and rooftop open-air venue on vacant lot Erf 109 and demolition of existing infrastructure to construct a parking lot on Erf 106, located along Diaz Road and Gelderland Street respectively in Jeffreys Bay, within the Kouga Local Municipality, Eastern Cape Province (Erf 109: 34° 3'18.88"S; 24°55'23.25"E, Erf 106: 34° 3'19.61 S; 24°55'22.14 E).
Habitat Link Consulting (Pty) Ltd has been appointed as the independent Environmental Assessment Practit oner (EAP) to apply for an Env ronmental Authorisation (EA) for the following NEMA Listed Activity: Listing Notice 1: Activities 17 & 19A and Listing Notice 3: Activity 12. The application was subm tted to the Eastern Cape Department of Economic Development, Environmental Affairs and Tourism (DEDEAT).
The Draft Basic Assessment Report (DBAR) will be made available for public review from 2 October 2025 until 6 November 2025. Copies of the DBAR will be available on the Hab tat Link Consulting webs te (https://habitatlink co za/currentpro ects/) Registration as an Interested and Affected Party (I&AP) and/or submission of comments can be done in writing by post or email to: Habitat Link Consulting: 117 Cape Road, Mount Croix, Gqeberha, 6001 Tel: 082 4909 317 | Email: roberto@habitatlink.co.za
PUBLIEKE DEELNAME KENNISGEWING VIR BASIESE ASSESSERING OMGEWINGS IMPAK STUDIE PROSES: VOORGESTELDE KONSTRUKSIE VAN 'N HOTEL EN PARKEERTERREIN OP ERWE 109 & 106, JEFFREYSBAAI, BINNE DIE KOUGA PLAASLIKE MUNISIPALITEITY
DEDEAT VERWYSINGSNOMMER: EC08/C/LN1&3/M/51-2025
Kennis word hiermee gegee
ingevolge regulasie 41(2), soos gepubliseer in die 2014 Omgewingsimpakbepaling (OIE) regulas es (soos gewysig) van die Nasionale Omgewingsbestuurswet (NEMA) (Wet Nr 107 van 1998, soos gewysig), vir die voorgestelde konstruksie van 'n vyfverdiepinghotel en dakoopluglokaal op die leë erf Erf 109 en die sloping van bestaande infrastruktuur om 'n parkeerterrein op Erf 106 te bou, geleë langs Diazweg en Gelderlandstraat onderskeidelik in Jeffreysbaai, binne die Kouga Plaaslike Munisipalite t, Oos-Kaap Provinsie (Erf 109: 34° 3'18.88"S; 24°55'23.25 O, Erf 106: 34° 3'19 61"S; 24°55'22.14"O).
Hab tat L nk Consu t ng (Edms) Bpk is aangeste as d e onafhank ike Omgewingsassesseringspraktisyn (OAP) om aansoek te doen vir n Omgewingsmagtiging (OA) vir die vo gende NEMA-gelyste aktiw teit: Lyskennisgewing 1: Aktiwiteite 17 en 19A en Lyskennisgewing 3: Aktiwiteit 12. Die aansoek s ingedien by die Oos-Kaapse Departement van Ekonomiese Ontwikkeling, Omgewingsake en Toerisme (DEDEAT). Die Konsep Basiese Assesseringsverslag (DBAR) sal beskikbaar gestel word vir openbare insig vanaf 2 Oktober 2025 tot 6 November 2025. Kopieë van die DBAR s a l b e s k k b a a r w e e s o p d e H a b i t a t L i n k C o n s u l t i n g - w e b w e r f (https://habitatlink.co.za/current-projects/). Registrasie as 'n Belanghebbende en Geaffekteerde Party (B&GP) en/of die indien van kommentaar kan skriftelik per pos of e-pos gedoen word aan: Habitat Link Consulting: 117 Cape Road, Mount Croix, Gqeberha, 6001; Tel: 082 4909 317 | E-pos: roberto@habitatlink.co.za NM10030837-KG021025
Die Goosens se skoonseun, Sarel Breitenbach, is algemene bestuurder van die Volkswagen ATD fabriek in Dalian en het die Goosens in die kliniese fabriek rondgewys “Die twee fabrieke onder sy toesig vervaardig komponente vir die Volkswagenmark in China Die fabrieksvloer is blinkskoon, soos ‘n mediese teater, en ons was verstom oor hulle tegnologiese voorsprong,” vertel die Goosens Historiesebesienswaardighede
Die Russiese straat wat dateer uit die vroeë besetting van Rusland oor hoofsaaklik die noordelike dele van China, was 'n kulturele belewenis Hulle het met 'n sneltrein na Beijing en Xi-an gereis en die Groot Muur, Somerpaleis, Temple of Heaven, die Teracotta weermag en Forbidden City besoek "Om in so n sneltrein te ry was op ons bucket list Dit beweeg tjoepstil teen 308km per uur!”
Hulle kon die Groot Muur uit hulle hotelkamer sien in Mutianyu “Wat 'n belewenis om op 'n gedeelte van die muur te loop wat in die Qin dinastie tussen 550-557 nC gebou is ”
Die Somerpaleis van 2 9 vierkante kilometer is in 1750 gebou, en bestaan uit mere, tuine en paleise Dit was
die tuiste van die keiser tydens die Qin-dinastie Die Temple of Heaven is ook 'n wêreld-erfenis gebied, opgerig deur die keiser van die Yongle –dinastie tussen 1406-1420 Dis 'n meesterstuk met n ronde dak – anders as die Chinese reghoekige of vierkantige dakke 'n Hoogtepunt vir die Goosens was die besoek aan die Forbidden City in die hartjie van Beijing Dis die beroemdste paleis in die Chinese geskiedenis en die grootse gerestoreerde paleiskompleks in die wêreld Dit was die tuiste van 24 keisers oor 500 jaar Dit was ook asemrowend om die nagenoeg sewe duisend terracotta beelde by die ‘Suicide history and mystery of Chinas first emperor” naby Xian te aanskou Die bestaan van hierdie 2000 jaar-oue beelde in staande posisie, is nêrens in die Chinese geskiedenis opgeteken nie Dis eers in 1974 ontdek deur ‘n boer Uitgrawings vind steeds plaas
Fietse,geboue,ligte
Daar was kleurvolle ervarings wat die Goosens nie gou sal vergeet nie Soos die miljoene fietse, straatveërs met bamboesbesems – tot op die Groot Muur - duisende bromponies, die Chinese modes, tieners met wye broeke en diksool stewels, Chinese wolkekrabbers, talle neon advertensieborde op straat, die voortdurende Chinese stemopnames wat advertensies uitbasuin, om maar n paar te noem
“Kommunikasie was moeilik, want bitter min Chinese praat Engels Hier en daar hoor jy dalk swak Engels in openbare plekke, soos: toilet paper, please enter the basket ” Was dit nie so ver nie, het hulle gou weer gaan kuier
DIARY|DAGBOEK
Career-exposureinitiativehostedatTsitsikammaHigh
IN celebration of World Tourism Day 2025, leading tourism partners in the Tsitsikamma region hosted an exciting career-exposure initiative at Tsitsikamma High School
This year's Tourism Month carries the theme: "Tourism and Sustainable Transformation "
The theme emphasises growing the tourism sector in ways that are inclusive, environmentally conscious, and beneficial for local communities and small businesses, making this initiative the perfect opportunity to showcase tourism's power to transform lives
On 26 September, 90 learners from Grades 10 and 11 enjoyed first-hand experiences of some of the region's most iconic adventure activities, at no cost These included the Tsitsikamma Canopy Tour, Untouched Adventures, Segway Tours, Bloukrans Bungy Sky Walk, and Tsitsikamma Adventure Land
South African National Parks, particularly the Tsitsikamma Section of the Garden Route National Park, also played a vital role by assisting with transport logistics and addressing the learners on careers in tourism Beyond the adrenaline and fun, each partner took a few minutes to engage directly with the learners on careers in tourism
The goal was to inspire the next generation to see tourism not just as a holiday activity, but as a vibrant, diverse industry that offers opportunities ranging from guiding and hospitality to marketing, conservation, and entrepreneurship
Lee-Marque Jansen, Marketing and Public Relations Manager at Tsitsikamma Canopy Tour, said, "World Tourism Day is about more than just travel; it s about showing our young people the doors tourism can open for them and their
communities By giving them a glimpse into our world, we hope to inspire futures shaped by sustainable and inclusive tourism " Phuti Namethe, Tourism Manager of the Tsitsikamma National Park, added, "This collaboration is a testament to what can be achieved when local tourism operators unite with the shared vision of investing in community, education, and the future of South Africa's tourism industry "
Partners involved:
Stormsriver Adventures – Tsitsikamma Canopy Tour Woodcutters Journey & Guided Hikes
• Untouched Adventures – Kayak & Lilo Tsitsikamma Segway Tours
• Tsitsikamma Adventure Land – Quad Bike Activity
Bloukrans Bungy Sky Walk
• SANParks – Garden Route National Park Tsitsikamma Section
Deon en Dalien Goosen in Dalian, China.
FOTO: VERSKAF
2025 wie Binne gemeenskap van goed getroud was met Gysbertus Jacobus Du Plessis, Identiteitsnommer: 391025 5051 08
en Novus
kan nie bevestig of enige van die geadverteerde dienste of produkte veilig is vir gebruik of die verlangde uitwerking of resultaat sal hê nie. Lesers word gewaarsku om die adverteerder se getuigskrifte deeglik te oorweeg en na te gaan. EP Media en Novus Media aanvaar hoegenaamd geen aanspreeklikheid ten opsigte van enige van die geadverteerde dienste of goedere nie.
Colouringcompetitionattractsmorethan1000entries
SINCE the launch of the Crystal Clear JBay colouring competition, in partnership with Kouga Local Municipality’s Jeffreys Bay Library earlier this month, more than one thousand entries have been received But in the end, only three young winners were crowned the youngest being three-year-old Aaric Euvrard
At the prize-giving ceremony, Kouga Deputy Executive Mayor, Timothy Jantjes, emphasised the importance of libraries and reading “Kids these days are all about technology Books and libraries are underestimated Reading improves speech and language proficiency
Life is about education and acquiring knowledge The parents of the three winners should be proud of them Parents must encourage them always to do their best ”
Dolores Putter from Crystal Clear JBay Waters said the idea behind the competition was to give the library more exposure
“We noticed that the library receives little attention Hence, the idea was to create exposure by doing something special that encourages children to participate We got several sponsors and thought we’d receive between 500 and 600 entries but we ended up with more than 1,000 ”
Sponsors included Crystal Clear,
Kouga Municipality, Wacky Water Park, CC Prints, Kodak Express, PostZone, JBay Print, Infinity Printing, JBay Canvas, Pitout Trading and GPA Consulting Management Accountants
Librarian Zukiswa Xokwe welcomed the initiative
“I was happy when Crystal Clear approached me, because my duty is to ensure that the community is involved in the library and does not get left behind in anything we do It’s not only about exposure, but also about learning from others who are not necessarily librarians This competition was important because we are creating a generation of literate chil-
dren, starting with the young
“It was overwhelming to receive all the entries I was so excited to see schools willing to participate, and parents coming into the library to collect entry forms Since it was the first time the competition was held, we thought it best to limit entries to ages 3 to 9 ”
For three-year-old Aaric Euvrard, winner of the 3–5 age category, victory came as a surprise His mother, Gillori, said: “This is an absolute bonus We come to the library every Monday We take out nine books that we think will last two weeks, but end up finishing them much sooner We recently discovered the non-fiction
JudovatvlaminJeffreysbaai
HANNES SCHOEMAN
JUDO het na net een jaar behoorlik vlamgevat op Jeffreysbaai Met die MJ’s Judo se eerste gradering die afgelope naweek was dit duidelik dat die sport sterk groei in dié streek
En met top-afrigters, ondersteunende ouers en geesdriftige studente is ’n sterk grondslag gelê vir toekomstige generasies
Die klub het die afgelope naweek sy eerste graderings gedoen Dis voorwaar ’n besonderse mylpaal omdat die klub nog net een jaar oud is en nou op sy eie bene kan staan Die aanduiding is dat die klub vinnig en sterk groei en in die toekoms talle kampioene kan oplewer
“Harde werk lê egter voor om die sport in ons streek te versterk,” sê die afrigter Matt Spear “Maar die talent is hier en van nou af kan ons vorentoe beur ”
Voorheen is alle graderings in Gqeberha by die MJ’s Judo Dojo gedoen wat sedert 1978 steeds die
hartklop van judo in die Baai is Studente het vanuit die staanspoor ywerig en geesdriftig geoefen en is die afgelope naweek met nuwe gordels beloon Hulle is: Beyers Bezuidenhout (1 Mon, geel), Ciaran Brand (1 Mon, oranje), Damian Brand (1 Mon, oranje), Ulrik du Plessis (1 Mon, geel), Bodhi Hayton (1 Mon, oranje), Zack Maritz (1 Mon, geel), en Nani Mkontwana (geel)
Met die afrigter Matt Spear in beheer wink ’n blink toekoms vir Jeffreysbaai en omliggende dorpe
Studente word uit die staanspoor tegniek, waardes, dissipline, respek en die liefde om te ontwikkel aan te leer
Vanjaar het die Sarah Baartman Judo-vereniging ook tot stand gekom wat klubs van Jeffreysbaai, Patensie en Gamtoos onder een sambreel vestig Sodoende word meer geleenthede geskep wat aan jong studente die kans bied om die voordele van die sport te kan geniet, en ook om hulle vir toekomstige kampioenskappe voor te berei
Jong studente is die afgelope naweek beloon Agter van links is: Ciaran Brand, Nani Mkontwana, Damian Brand (al drie Jeffreysbaai-akademie) en die afrigter Matt Spear (MJ’s Judo). Voor: Zack Maritz, Beyers Bezuidenhout, Ulrik du Plessis en Bodhi Hayton (almal Whale of a Time Playschool). Die voorste studente gaan volgende jaar na die Laerskool Jeffreysbaai om graad R te begin. FOTO: AMY HAYTON
SAARPsupportsAfricanDawn
section for children at the back of the library, and we’re thrilled to explore that with our boys ” Nahum Juba, winner of the 6–7 age group, said he was “thrilled” with his win “I took about five or six minutes to complete the drawing I am very thankful for all my prizes ” The 8–9 category winner, Ernest Fuba, from Pellsrus Primary, was encouraged to enter by his teacher His mother, Esterlene, said: “I am very proud of him and was excited when I received the call with the good news We often visit the library, and I am very happy that he won,” said the proud Grade 3 learner’s mom
Receiving his prize from Deputy Executive Mayor, Timothy Jantjes, and Dolores Putter from Crystal Clear JBay, is Nahum Juba, the winner in the 6-7 years category PHOTOS: SUPPLIED
SAARP (South African Retired Persons), Jeffreys Bay Social Club recently
Princess. PHOTOS: SUPPLIED
Smokey.
Buddy. Ziggy.
Little Aaric Euvrard received his prize from Deputy Executive Mayor Timothy Jantjes and Liam Kelbrick from Crystal Clear JBay. He was the winner in the 3-5 age group.
Receiving his prize from Deputy Executive Mayor, Timothy Jantjes, and Dolores Putter from Crystal Clear JBay, is Ernest Faba, the winner in the 8-9 age category Liam Kelbrick from Crystal Clear looks on
