RESIDENTS of Joubertina and the greater Langkloof area have demonstrated remarkable resilience and community spirit asthey continue to navigate the challenges brought about by recent flood damage, disrupted municipal services and the closure of the R62.
As previously reported, the R62 between Kareedouw and Joubertinacollapsed following heavyrains in May, while severe weather battered towns across theEasternCape.
Joubertina resident,property owner and president of the local chamber of commerce, Anton van der Mescht, said the situation remains critical, particularly with ongoing water and sewage challenges.
According to Van der Mescht, the KouKamma Municipality's honey sucker trucks, which are used to drain sewage, are unable to access the area via their usual route because of the damaged R62.
As aresult of the damage to the R62, he alleges that the honeysucker trucks, which are basedinKareedouw, are meant to travel through George before heading to Joubertina, significantly increasing travel times.
“Consistent service from the municipality has been achallenge for manyyears; however, the recent flood and damage to the R62 have made the situation even more challenging,” said Van der Mescht.
Van der Meschtsaid Joubertina hasalso been without waterfor weeks.
While he is fortunate to have access to borehole water on his properties, many residents do not have the same option.
“Receiving water from the municipality has also beenachallenge,”said Vander Mescht.
In response, community membershave steppedintoassist one another
Van der Mescht and otherresidents regularly load1,000-litre water tanksonto their bakkies and distributeborehole water to those in need.
Residents and local churches have also opened access to their boreholes to helpthe communityobtain water.
“Since the municipality is so unreliable, the community hasbandedtogether and relies on one another for assistance,”saidVan der
Mescht.
He saidthe community has increasinglyfocusedonbecoming self-sufficient duetoongoing servicedelivery difficulties
Vander Mescht addedthat residentshave frequentlyfunded servicesthemselveswhen municipal assistance was not forthcoming.
“Many servicesmeant to be renderedbythe municipality havebeen paid for by the residents themselves,”said Van derMescht.
He alsobelieves that water consumption in the area currently exceedswhat thelocal reservoirs canpump,contributingtothe ongoing shortages.
Despite the hardships,Van derMescht said the response from residents has been inspiring. “It is an understatement to say that I am proud of my community,” saidVan der Mescht.
“The communityhas pulledtogether to assist oneanother.Iamproudtobeapart of this community.”
The spiritofcooperation has also extended beyond water reliefefforts.
Vander Mescht saidthat local farmers recently constructed adetour route that can be used by 4x4vehicles, providingatemporary alternative for some travellers while theR62 remains inaccessible
He further describedthe recent floodingas the most severe theLangkloof area has experienced in many years. “It wasaflood of magnitude,” said Van derMescht.
He noted that some residents remain effectivelyisolated due to damagedroads and limited access routes.
“Itisacritical situation without road, water andsewage drainage,” saidVan derMescht. “Itisnot an easysituation.”
While acknowledging the ongoing difficulties, Vander Mescht remains optimistic about the community’s ability to support one another
He added that residents remain eager to see the restoration of essential infrastructure.
“We payour ratesand taxes, yetwedonot receive the necessaryservicesfrom the municipality,”said Van derMescht
Adding to thefrustration,hesaid that they arecut off from Kareedouw and aredesperatetohave theR62 fixedtobeable to travel again.
SouthAfrican National Roads Agency SOC Limited (SANRAL) firstconfirmed on 7May that the affected section of the R62had been closed followingthe collapse of the road between Kareedouw andJoubertina.
At thetime,SANRAL advised motorists to usethe alternative route via the N2 to the Western Cape
On 14 May, theSANRAL spokesperson, Lwando Mahlasela, saidaninitial meeting had been heldwith engineers and that a surveyor would firstneed to determine the extent of thewash-away before afull assessment couldbecompleted. He further said the road wouldremainclosed until the initial assessment had been completed and that time frameswouldbedetermined during the assessment process
On 1June, nearly one month after the road collapsed, Mahlaselasaid that the status of theroad remained thesame.
When askedwhen repairs would commence or when road userscouldexpect to use the road again, he said, “We are still waiting for theprocurement process to be finalised.”
Kou-Kamma municipal spokesperson Nomava Siqokosaid that the municipality is aware of thechallenges experienced by some residents of Joubertinabecause of the damage to theR62.
Shesaid that theaffected section of the R62 falls under SANRAL’s mandate, and that any technical assessments, reports, decisions regarding repairs, temporary access routes, maintenance responsibilities, or possible reimbursement arrangements would be matters for SANRAL to consider.
“The municipality is not currently responsible for themanagement or maintenance of the national road networkbut remains supportive of effortsaimedatensuring community safety and accessibilityduring thisperiod,” said Siqoko.
Shefurther said that the municipality’shoney sucker is currentlynot operational due to mechanical challenges.
Siqoko said that the Supply ChainManagement (SCM) section is actively engaged in appointinga suitableservice provider to undertake the necessary repairs
“In theinterim, themunicipality has advisedthat theJoubertina residents make use
of the honey sucker at the old-age home in Joubertina,”said Siqoko.
She said that water supply challenges experienced in the affected area wereprimarily caused by extensive flood damage to critical water infrastructure.
Siqokosaid that the pipelines conveying raw water from the dam to the treatment plant were swept away by the floodwaters, while the inlet structure withinthe dam became blocked.
She said that thissignificantly impacted the municipality’sability to abstract and treat water
To address the blockage at the dam, Siqoko said that the municipality engaged aspecialist diver to inspect and clear the inlet structure.
“Due to high water levels and strong currentsfollowing the floods, the diver had to waituntil conditions weresafe enough to undertake the work. Once access was possible, the blockage was successfully removed. Thereafter,the municipality utilised heavy machinery to replace the damaged pipelines and restore the water supply system,”said Siqoko.
She further said that water services have since been restored.
“The restoration process was complex and required significant technical intervention, specialised expertise, and heavy equipment to repair the damaged infrastructure. Municipal teams worked diligently throughout the recovery period to ensure that services were reinstated as soon as conditions allowed,” said Siqoko.
To address future demand and improve the resilience of the water supply system, she said that the municipality is in the process of increasing the treatment plant’s capacity.
Siqokosaid that the project has already progressed to the tender stage, and acontractor will be appointed in due course.
“Once construction is completed, the upgraded facility is expected to significantly enhance the municipality's ability to meet current and future water demand,” saidSiqoko. She further said that technical reportswere compiled and submitted to request funding to restore all that was lostduring the disaster and ensure continued service delivery to residents.
SBDM Council approves newbudget for2026/2027
AT aCouncil meeting held on 27 May at the Sarah Baartman District Municipality (SBDM)Council Chambers,the Council approved theMunicipality’s 2026/2027budget, reflectinga firm commitmenttosocio-economic development, service delivery,support for localmunicipalities and mitigation of disasters.
During hisaddresstoCouncil, Executive Mayor Deon de Vos said that thisbudget is presentedduring uniquely difficult timesas the Sarah Baartman District Municipality finds itselfengulfed by majorclimate-related incidentstaking place afew monthsapart
“In January this year, the district experienced devastating fires that affected four localmunicipalities, and this month (May) the district was hit by disruptive rains which causedhavoc in our localmunicipalities, leavingcertain communitiesinaccessible and withoutelectricity almost 20 days after the incident,” said De Vos.
He furthersaidthat it is worthmentioning that the agriculturalsector andits workforce have suffered aheavy blow.
De Vos said that SBDM management has
engagedthe Department of Transportand Eskom on this matter, and progress is being made to repair the damage caused.
In astatement,the municipality saidthat an operational budgetofR183 million and a capitalbudget of R5.4 million wereadopted for the new financial year commencing on 1July.
Furthermore, the statement indicates that themain sources of sustainable own discretionary revenue include the Equitable Share, which incorporates the Levy Replacement Grant and amounts to R80.6 million for the year.
Additional revenue sourcesinclude:
• R12 million in interest revenue
• R100,000 from rental income
• R5.2 millionfromconditional grants listedinDORA
• R65 millioningrantsfromsectordepartments
• R3.5 million in management fees from the Provincial Department of Human Settlements.
The municipalitysaid that the balance of the budget would be funded from the municipality’s accumulated surplus.
The statement highlightsthat the totalproject budget for2026/2027isR39.7 million, allocated acrosskeydevelopmentareas,including:
• R600,000 forthe Office of the Speakerfor community engagementsand outreach programmes
R200,000 forthe youth fund to addressissuesof youth unemployment
• R800,000 to support two learnersfromthe district who arecurrentlystudyinginChina at Hangzhou Normal Universitythrough SBDM’s partnership with China
• R200,000 respectivelyfor women’sempowerment disabilityempowerment,and the implementation of the District’sHIV/AIDSplan
• R1 millionfor the development of business plans for localmunicipalitiesinthe district
R1.306 million from the EPWP grant forlocal projects in communityservices
• R65millionfromthe Provincial Department of Human Settlementsfor theUpgrading of Informal SettlementsProgramme acrosslocal municipalities
• R7.5 millionfor fireservice contributions and R1 million fordisasterriskassessments
R3 milliontoassist localmunicipalitieswith water servicesthroughWSA support
• R2.732 millionunder the RRAMS Conditional Grant forthe continuation of the RuralRoads Asset Management System project
• R5.610 million to twolocal municipalitiesfor delivering Environmental Health services on behalfofthe District
• R6.550 million fortourism marketing, promotion, and development,includingsupport forcreativeindustries
• R600,000 forLocal Economic Development initiatives,supporting SMMEs
• R425,000 forTechnicalTownPlanning initiatives
• R2.3 million forTrade and Investment projectdevelopment and packaging
R2 million formunicipal audit support initiatives to localmunicipalities
• R100,000 has been earmarked forjob evaluation operations.
In his closing remarks, De Vos stated, “Through thisbudget, we are making it clear that SBDM is committed to strengthening its local municipalities, supporting district economic growth and improving the quality of life of our communities. This budget reflects our determination to govern responsibly, utilise public resources prudently and deliver on the mandate entrusted to us by the people of Sarah Baartman District.”
JEFFREYS Bay businessman, Pirow Viljoen (83), has died in hospitalnearly aweek after being involved in amotor vehicle accidentinNautilus Street, Jeffreys Bay, on 23 May
As aresult, the recklessand negligent drivingcase against the accused is now set to change to that of culpablehomicide.
Shortly after Bonase's court appearance, Nkohli said thatthe accused appearedin court on charges of reckless andnegligent driving,with asecondcharge of driving a motor vehicle while under the influenceof alcohol.
Nkohli further confirmed that an additional charge of disobeying astopsign had been added.
"Bonasewas released on R500 bail, and thematter was postponed to 23 July for further investigation," said Nkohli.
He said thatfollowing Viljoen's death, the reckless andnegligent driving charge would nowchangetothat of culpablehomicide
Kouga Express reported that theincident occurred at about16:55 on 23 May when Viljoenwas allegedly walkingover apedestrian crossing in Nautilus Street, and a white VW Polo allegedly drove through a stop sign and hithim
After the incident, police said that amember of aprivate security company allegedly
witnessed theincident in his rear-view mirror, made aU-turn, stopped thesuspect's vehicleand summoned police to thescene. Upon arrival,police allegedlyfound that thedriver of thewhiteVWPolowas under theinfluence of alcohol Viljoen waswidely knowninthe Jeffreys Bay communityasaformer owner of Wimpy and Mugg &Bean franchises. He wasalsoactively involved with the Southern African Foundation for theConservation of Coastal Birds.
THE Tsitsikamma Wolf Sanctuary,South Africa’s oldest wolf sanctuary, is continuing its recovery efforts after severe floodingand storm damage in Maycaused extensive destructionto infrastructure and access routesatthe facility.
Establishedin2001asanon-profitorganisation, the sanctuary provides apermanent home for wolves and high-content wolfdogs that have been surrendered by private owners, rescued from unsuitable situations,ortransferred from facilities that could no longer care for them Accordingtozoologistand conservationist, Francette Jerling, the sanctuary experienced one of the most severe weatherevents in recent years.
“The rain seemed relentless. We areaccustomedtowinter storms in the Tsitsikamma region,but this event was unlike anything we have experienced in recent years,” said Jerling
“Asthe rainfall continued hour afterhour, waterbegan accumulating in areas that would normally drainwithout issue.”
Jerlingsaid that the scale of the damage became apparent when the sanctuary’s mainaccess road began washing away.
“Ourmain access road started washing away, trees continuedfalling,and floodwater started impacting infrastructure across the sanctuary. At that point, we knew we were dealing with a majorweatherevent rather than atypical winter storm,” said Jerling.
She further said that approximately 400 mm of rain was recorded during the event.
As aresultofthe access road washing away, Jerling said that they were forced to close the sanctuarytothe public fortwo weeks.
Shesaid that electricity and cellphone reception were also lost across the area, preventing visitors from contacting the sanctuary forinformation about alternative access routes.
“Several large trees fell across roads, pathways and fences, while visitorareas, walkways and serviceinfrastructure were damaged by erosionand floodwater. Certain sections of fencing required urgent repairs to ensure the continued safety of the animals,”saidJerling.
Despitethe destruction, she said thatnoneof thesanctuary’s wolves wasinjured.
“Thewolves’ safety was our highest priority throughout the event,” said Jerling.
“Our teamcontinuously monitored the enclosures, checked fencelines, cleared drainage where possible, andremained on-site despite difficult conditions.”
She said thatthe wolves are an exoticspecies in South Africa, andmany of the animals currently in the countryare aresultofthe exotic pettrade
While feeding schedules and daily careroutines were maintained throughout the flood, Jerling said that the sanctuary faced significant logistical challenges.
She explained that damagedroads prevented stafffromcollecting carcasses donated by neighbouring dairy farms, while flooding left the feed preparation area inaccessible for approximately two weeks.
Jerling said that, as acompletely off-grid facility powered by solar energy, the sanctuary also had to rely heavily on generatorstokeep freezers operational and preservefood supplies.
The financial impact of the disaster hasalso been significant.
“The road alone cost R75,000 to repair. Additional repairs and clean-up areestimated at a further R20,000 to R30,000,” said Jerling.
Shesaidthat the most urgentprioritiesincluderepairing access roads,stabilising erosion damage, restoring drainage systems, clearing fallen trees and repairingdamaged fencing and infrastructure.
Jerling said thatasasmall, privately run NPO, the sanctuary relies on visitortours, sponsorships, donations andaccommodation bookingstofund its operations.
“Emergencies like this place enormous strain on our resources because funds that would normally be used foranimal care, maintenance, and operational expenses must suddenly be diverted toward unexpected repairs and disaster recovery,” said Jerling
Althoughthe sanctuary has reopened for day tours and rustic glamping accommodation, some areas remaininaccessible while clean-up and repairs continue.
Jerlingsaidthe public response to the sanctuary’s appeal forassistance has been encouraging.
“The response has been incredibly heartwarming. We havereceived messages of support from around South Africaand overseas, as well as some donations,”saidJerling
“What has touched us mostisthat many people who have visited the sanctuaryover the years feel apersonal connection to the wolves and genuinely want to help us recover.”
Jerlingsaidthat businesses can assist with building materials, fuel, machinery, fencing materials, transport and professional services, while membersofthe publiccan supportthe sanctuary through donations,sponsorships, tours and accommodationbookings
Jerlingsaidthat the recentstorm has reminded them how resilient both people and animals can be.
While the damage has been significant, she said that they remaincommittedtoproviding the highest standard of care for everywolf that calls the sanctuary home
“We would like to thank our supporters, neighbours, volunteers, sponsors, and the wider community fortheir kindness and encouragement during this difficulttime. Thewolves aresafe, and with continued support, we will rebuild stronger than before,”said Jerling “The wolves arethe reason we arehere. No matter the challenge, their welfare comes first,” she added.
For moreinformation or to donate towards the sanctuary, contact 066 238 8094 or 082 956 4175, emailtsitsikammawolfsanctuary@gmail. com, or visit wolfsa.org.za
THE Nation Builders Prophetic Apostolic Movement (NBPAM),aservice centre for senior citizens in Humansdorp, hosted aspecial awareness programme on 26 May when members were visited by Touch Your Dreams,an organisation that works with at-risk youth.
NBPAM currently serves 50 beneficiaries,including 35 active members who attend weekly programmes and fivebedridden seniorcitizens.
According to NBPAM Project Manager and ExecutiveDirector, AshwellGoliath, Touch Your Dreams is oneofthe organisation's stakeholdersand was invitedtoeducate senior citizens about substance abuse and related challenges affecting families in the Kouga and SarahBaartmanDistrict
AlthoughTouch YourDreams focuses on atrisk youth, Goliath said the programme was relevant to senior citizens becausemanyseniors are affected by substance abusewithin their families andcommunities.
“The event wasfocused on theawareness of youth who stay withseniorswho areaddicted to substanceand drugabuse in our communities and the effectsonour seniors,”said Goliath.
TouchYour Dreams is anon-profit company founded by Carvin Jaars.
Goliath described Jaars as agood friend who works with young peopleaffected by addiction through awareness programmes andsupport groups in Kouga and surrounding areas.
Discussions duringthe programme focused on communitychallenges relatedtosubstance abuse, while some senior membersshared their ownexperiences andconcerns.
“We have seniorsinour organisation who have broken thesilence about theirconditions and fears that some of them live in,” said Goliath
In addition to hostingawarenessprogrammes, NBPAMhas spent the past fewmonths focusing on staff developmentand trainingtoimprove service delivery andwork towards excellence.
Reflecting on theorganisation’s journey, Go-
liath said thepassingofhis wife, Nicolette, in April 2025, had asignificantimpact on both the organisation and itsmembers.
“Aftermywife passed, we realised the role shehad playedinthe livesofthe seniors, the communitiesand in our organisation. It has been adifficult season for the NBPAM family and me, butthe Lord has been faithful, and today Ican declare that we have made it by the grace of God, people and friends who believe in thevision we had for our organisation,”said Goliath
He said that theorganisation has focused on equipping andempowering itsteam.
Goliath said that this year, two team members completed their home-based care training.
This year, one staff member completed afirst aid course, two staff members completed a tree-planting course,one staff member completed ahealth and safety course, and two executive board members completed courses in basic counsellingskills, withaguide to grieving and bereavement,domestic abuseand social skills.
Goliath said thetraining forms partof
‘Die Papier’praat nouopdie web
Die Papier Praat,’nweeklikse YouTube-nuusprogram, is die jongste toevoeging tot DiePapier-stal.’nNuwe programvol nuus salelke Donderdag om 19:00 uitgereikword.
Benewens ’n voorskouvan wetenswaardighede uit die volgende dagseuitgawevan Die Papier,kan kykersook uitsien na besprekingsenontledings van plaaslike en internasionale nuus, en ander aktuele kwessies.
Sportliefhebbers word ook nieafgeskeep nie. ’n Sportsegment met ’n oorsig van die week se belangrikste sportnuus én ’n voorskouvan die naweek se sportkalender, sal aansluit by Die Papier sereeds gewilde weeklikse sportblaaie. Die Papier Praat word aangebied deur Daniëlla van Heerden, ’n voormalige nuusleser
vaneNuus op kykNET.
Jana Swart, ’n gewilde sport-aanbieder en sport-beïnvloeder, sal jouopdie hoogte bring oor allerlei sport. Swart is ’n groot sportliefhebber, met ’n BSc in sportwetenskap en honneurs in hoëprestasie-sport. Sy was ook die mediabeampte vanStellenbosch FC, ’n mededinger in die PSL-sokkerliga.
Barnard Beukman, Die Papier se redakteur, sê hy is opgewonde oor die “opwindende en nodigeuitbreiding” vandie weekblad se handelsmerk.
“Ons het vandie begin af gesê diegedrukte koerant is ’n belangrike basis vir die handelsmerk, maar is slegs een elementdaarvan. Nog elemente is aan die kom, en ons webwerf staan
NBPAM’s vision to expand itsservices in the future.
“The purpose of the training of our NBPAM team is partofour futureplans to become a movement that serves all generations and gender groups, and continues to provide services to all seniors in our community.”Headded that the organisation hopes to offer professional counselling, care and support systems, as well as future training opportunities for other organisations and churches in the community.
To celebrate theseachievements,NBPAM will host agraduation award ceremony on 27 June to acknowledge staff, management and team members who have completed training courses during the year
Looking ahead, Goliath saidthat the organisationhopes to secureits own facility to host programmes and training sessions. NBPAM currently uses the Kruisfontein Community Hall twice aweek.
Goliath further thanked the Kouga Municipalityfor the support it has provided the organisation over the lasteight years.
ook aan dievooraand van groot spronge.” Beukman sê disvir hom en sy span ’n groot eer dat Daniëlla en Jana aan boordisvir Die Papier Praat.“Ek glo hulle gaan help om Afrikaansenuusuitsendings onherroeplikenop’n opwindende manier te verander.”
Jeannine van Zyl, diehoof van premium produkte en inhoud by Novus Media, Die Papier se moedermaatskappy, is net so opgewonde oor dietoevoeging.
“Met Die Papier Praat wil ons Die Papier se platformverder uitbrei om ons lesers ook op ’n moderne, toeganklike en persoonlike manier te bereik,” sê sy. “Die uitsending geeons diegeleentheid om diestories agter diehoofopskrifte verder te vertel.”
Daniella van Heerden. Jana
Matrikulant-kompetisiekweekleierskapengeleenthede
SISKA MARTIN
Die Kovsie-Alumnitrust (KAT) se betrokkenheid by die Matrikulant van die Jaar-kompetisie stem nou ooreen met die trust se verbintenis tot die bemagtiging van jong mense deur middel van onderwys, leierskapsontwikkeling en geleentheidskepping.
Só sê Bertie Haasbroek, voorsitter van die KAT. “Die kompetisie vier akademiese
uitnemendheid, veerkragtigheid en potensiaal –waardes watnoodsaaklik is vir die bou van’nsterker Suid-Afrika.Deur inisiatiewe te ondersteun wat matrikulante erken en ophef, dra ons by totdie skep van paaie vir toekomstige leiers terwyl ons ’n kultuur van prestasie, integriteit en gemeenskapsimpak aanmoedig.”
Dié kompetisie van die Universiteit vandie Vrystaat (UV) en Novus Media help matrikulante om die eienskappe te ontwikkel wat hulle
Vanlinks is Bertie Haasbroek (voorsitter van die Kovsie-Alumnitrust), Burgertvan Heerden (finalis2025) en Karla Marais (finalis 2024).Van Heerden wasverlede jaar vonkelpersoonlikheid,terwylMarais in 2024 diéeerbewysontvanghet.
FOTO:CHARL DEVENISH
nodig het om suksesvol te wees.
“Vandagsematrikulante benodig veerkragtigheid, aanpasbaarheid, kritiese denke, kommunikasievaardighede en ’n bereidwilligheid om aan te houleer. Akademiese prestasie alleen is nie meer genoeg nie –jongmense moet ook in staat wees om saam te werk, probleme kreatief op te losenmet selfvertroue en integriteit te lei.”
Volgens Haasbroek daag die kompetisie leerlinge uit om hulself professioneel aan te bied, verder as die klaskamertedink en betrokke te raak by geleenthede wat dissipline, selfvertroue en leierskap vereis. Dit moedig hulle aan om persoonlik én akademies te groei.
“Die lewe vat onsopgevaarlike paaie, draaie, driffies, riviere, tsoenami’s en woestyne deur. Maar die wat vroeg genoeg (opskoool)begin het, is beter toegerus om deur die lewe te navigeer. Sport het hulle al klaar vanwen en verloor geleer; kultuur het hulle al klaar vangemiddeld en uitstaande en kreatiwiteit geleer. Leierskapsposisies het hulle al klaar geleer dat gewildheid taan,endat normes en waardesjou verder dra as watdie stemme jou sal vat,” sê hy.
Haasbroek sê beduidende uitdagings staarSuid-Afrikasejeug in die gesig. Dit sluit in ongelykheid, beperkte toegang tot geleenthede en onsekerheid oordie toekoms.
“Inisiatiewe soos hierdie bied erkenning,aanmoediging en blootstelling aan geleenthede watbaie jongmense andersins nie souontvang nie.
“Dit motiveer leerlinge om na uitnemendheidtestreef en wys hulle dat harde werk en toewyding
waardeer word. Kompetisies van hierdie aardhelp ook om vertroue te bou en jong mense te inspireer om in hul potensiaal te glo, ongeag hul agtergrond.”
Burgertvan Heerden, ’n finalis verlede jaar en vanjaar mediese student in sy eerste jaar,stem saam dat die kompetisie sy selfbeeld ’n hupstoot gegee het.
“Toe onsdie eerste keer in ’n groepwerkendie groep maak my die leier, moes ek keer dat my glimlagnie my oreraak nie!”
Dié matrikulant van die Hoër Landbouskool Marlow in Cradock sê hy het homself verrasmet hoe vinnig hy aangepas het tussen al die nuwe mense.
“Dit was altyd moeilik virmy om oop te maak en gou gewoond te raak aan ander,maar ek het net besluit ek gaan in dieeindronde probeer.”
Sy besluit het dividende gelewer en hy is tot sy verbasing deur sy medefinaliste as vonkelpersoonlikheid aangewys.
Aangesien die meerderheidvan die finaliste, soos Van Heerden, medies wou studeer,kon hulle toekomstige klasmaats ontmoet en vriendskappe bou, sodat hulle al mense geken het op hul eerste dag as student.
Sy raad aan vanjaar se finaliste is om die eindronde nie te ernstig op te neem nie.
“Bouverhoudinge, en wieweet, dalk vorm jy verhoudinge wat lewenslank gaan hou.”
Skryf só in Matrikulante van oor die land heen wat uitblink in akademie, kultuur en sport en volgende jaar aan
die UV wilstudeer, kan hulle vir die kompetisie inskryf.
Beurse, prysgeld en geskenke ter waarde van sowat R500 000 is op die spel vir die 25 topdeelnemers, geborg deur UV Studentewerwingsdienste, die Kovsie-Alumnitrust, Forvis Mazars, Absa en Pick nPay Preller Walk.
Leerlinge kan hulself inskryf of deur skole benoem word. Vyf-entwintig semifinaliste word gekies, met 14 finaliste wat van 5tot 7Oktober in Bloemfonteinaan dieeindronde deelneem.
Skandeer die QR-kode,laai die inskryfvorm af, vul in en stuur dit teen 31 Julie terug na Linda Greyling by greylinl@ufs.ac.za.
Volunteersneededtohelpat
HumansdorpSPCAAssisi
RAZAANPLAATJIES
THE team at Humansdorp SPCA Assisi is calling on compassionate community members to step forward and helpmake adifference in the livesofvulnerable animals across the Kouga region
Established to protectand care for neglected, abused, abandonedand stray animals, SPCA Assisi servesHumansdorp, Jeffreys Bay, St Francis Bay,Hankey, Patensie and surrounding areas
LouiseBakkes of SPCA Assisi saidthe organisation’s mandateisrooted in animal welfare, rescue, rehabilitation, education and responsible petownership.
“Every day, the dedicated team works tirelessly to ensure animalsreceive the care,medicaltreatment and second chances they deserve,” said Bakkes Currently, the organisation cares for many dogs,cats, puppiesand kittens, with new animals arrivingregularly.
Bakkes saidthat,with the growing de-
mand for animal welfare services and increasing operational costs, community supporthas become moreimportant than ever before.
Although SPCAAssisi has afew loyal and hardworking volunteers, more helping hands are urgentlyneeded to assist with the growing workload and improve the lives of the animals in their care.
“We simply cannot do this alone,” said Bakkes “Volunteersplay an enormous role in the emotional wellbeing of our animals and the successofour fundraising efforts.”
Helping in thekennels by walking dogs andsocialising with cats to provide love,stimulation and companionship
• Assisting with weekend tin collections by offeringevenjustone hour on Saturdays to help raisemuch-needed funds
• Supporting theorganisation during the festive season by volunteering as giftwrappersatFountains Mall between 16 and25December,one of the SPCA’simportant annual fundraising projects
Helping in the charityshopbysorting,pricing andmarking donated items
• Assisting at fundraising events, transporting donations and helping spread awareness on social media
• Painting, repairsand minormaintenance choresaround the SPCAfacilities
Gardening and landscaping assistance for those with green fingersand apassion forcreating beautiful outdoor spaces
Bakkes said no previous experience is required to become avolunteer
Instead, the mostimportant qualities are compassion, reliability, patienceand awillingness to help.
“One volunteer spent weeks patiently sitting withafrightened rescue dogthat had lost all trust in people,”Bakkes recalled.
“Eventually,the dog began waggingits tail, accepting affection and finally found aloving forever home. It reminded us how powerful kindness and consistency can be.”
Beyond practical help, Bakkes said SPCA Assisi is looking for volunteers who are empathetic, dependable, positive and willing to work as part of ateam dedicated to animal welfare.
She saidinterested volunteerscan contact HumansdorpSPCA Assisi directly to learn more about available opportunities.
“The process is simple and welcoming, usuallyinvolving ashortdiscussion about availability,interests and where assistance is most needed,” said Bakkes.
She said community members who may not have time to volunteer are also encouraged to supportthe organisation through donations of petfood, blankets, cleaning supplies or by adopting an animal in need of alovinghome.
“Even one hour of yourtimecan make aworld of difference,” said Bakkes.
“Every act of kindness helpsuscontinue ourmission of protecting and caring for the animals who need us most.”
The organisation is also looking for forever homes for the following animals, all of whom are worthy of wonderful, loving homes
Sasha isatwo-year-old Labrador cross.
Buksie is an 8-year-old Jack Russell.
Billy is an 8-year-old Jack Russell.
Adoption fees include sterilisation, microchipping, deworming and vaccinations.
For more information or to join Humansdorp SPCA Assisi, contact Louise Bakkes on082 879 6509, contact the office on 066297 9010 or visit the SPCAAssisi HumansdorpFacebook page
For adoption enquiries, contact Ettienne Opperman on 066 297 9010 or visit the SPCA inStFrancis Street, Humansdorp to personally meet the animals.
Additionally,interested locals can become committee members for an annual membership feeofR100, with the next annualgeneral meeting taking place on 14 July at 18:00atthe Jeffreys Bay Bowling Club.
Billy.
PHOTO: SUPPLIED
Notice
of the
of Registries Act,
in terms of
of the inten-
for the
of Title Deed
T14782/2009 passed by TSALA AGRICULTURAL INVESTMENTS PROPRIEATARY LIMITED in favour of FISANTRAND BOERDERY EIENDOMSBEPERK, Registration Number 2002/004806/07inrespect of Remainder of Portion 22 (Portion of Portion 15)ofthe FarmGeelhouteboom No 349, in the Kouga Municipality, Division of Humansdorp, Province of the Eastern Cape, which has been lost or destroyed.
All persons having objection to the issueofsuchcopy are hereby requiredtolodge the samein writing with the Registrar of Deeds at Eastern Cape: Qonceat113 Alexandra Road, Qonce, 5600 within two(2) weeksafter the date of the publication of this notice.
LOST OR DESTROYED DEED Notice is hereby given in terms of regulation 68 of the Deeds Registries Act, 1937, of the intentiontoap- ply for the issue of acerti- fied copy of Title Deed No. T22495/2002CTN passed by 1. LOUWRENSBEZUIDENHOUT,Identity No. 710327 5165 08 7, Unmarried and 2. JACOBUS BEZUIDENHOUT, Identity No. 730620 5007 08 5, Unmarried in favour of CLIVE PETER MARWICK, Identity No.: 461107 5084 08 7, Married Out of Community of Property, in respect of certain REMAINDER ERF 82 JEFFREYS BAY, IN THE KOUGA LOCAL MUNICIPALITY, DIVISION OF HUMANSDORP, EASTERN CAPE PROVINCE which has been lost or destroyed.
All interested persons having objection to the issue of such copy are hereby required to lodge the same in writing with the Registrar of Deed at Eastern Cape: Qonce within two weeks from the date of publication of this notice. Dated at JEFFREYS BAY this 19th day of February 2026 Applicant: Executrix in the Estate Late
Marwick
LOST OR DESTROYED DEED
Notice is hereby given interms of regulation68ofthe Deeds Registries Act,1937, of theintention to applyfor theissue of acertified copy of Deed of Transfer T27613 /2001CTNpassed by REINETTE LOOTS (PREVIOUSLY STEYN) Identity Number 660512 0002 08 4, Unmarried in respect of ERF 302 CLARENDONMARINE IN THENELSONMANDELA METROPOLITAN MUNICIPALITY DIVISION OF PORT ELIZABETH PROVINCE OF THE EASTERN CAPE IN EXTENT 975 (NINEHUNDREDAND SEVENTY FIVE SQUARE METRES and which has been lost or destroyed.
Allinterested persons having objectiontothe issueofsuch copy are hereby requiredtolodge the same in writingwiththe Registrar of Deeds at KING WILLIAM'S TOWN within twoweeks from the date of thepublicationofthis notice.
Boedel wyle SchalkWillem vander Walt,Identiteitsnommer: 340608 5007082, gebore8 Junie 1934, Oorlede op 6Maart 2026,'n Wewenaarvan Jeffreysrus Frail Care, Jeffreysbaai, ProvinsieOos-Kaap, Meesters-kantoor Port Elizabeth. Boedelnr.:
that copies of the liquidation and distribution accountsinthe abovementionedestate, will be openfor inspectionfor aperiodof21days from the date of publication hereof, by all persons with an interest therein, at the Masterofthe High CourtinPort Elizabeth and the Magistrates CourtinHumansdorp.
Shouldnoobjectionthereto be lodgedwith the Masters concerned during the specified period, the executors will proceed to make paymentsinaccordance with the accountsreceived
ROSSOUW ATTORNEYS 7Schelde Street PO Box 1307
n et af ikasie ke
EP MediaenNovusMediakan nie bevestig of enige van diegeadverteerde dienste of produkte veiligisvir gebruik of die verlangde uitwerkingofresultaat sal hê nie. Leserswordgewaarskuom die adverteerder se getuigskrifte deeglik te oorweegennategaan.
EP Mediaen NovusMediaaanvaar hoegenaamd geen aanspreeklikheid ten opsigte van enigevan die geadverteerde dienste ofgoederenie.
IN recognition of Child Protection Month, leading into National Child Protection Week from 29 May to 5 June, the children of RainbowCentrehave stepped forward andused their voices to call for safetyand an endtochild abuse.
Over the past two weeks, the Centre intentionally created space for children to lead the message into the community.
Rainbow Centre, aprogramme of Victory4All, is based in Kruisfontein and serves children from low-income families, manyofwhom livewith learning or physical disabilities. It was noted that childrenwithdisabilities are especially vulnerable to abuse,making it all the more importanttoequip them with the confidence, knowledge, and support systems needed to speak up andseek help RainbowCentre shared that it implements the Child Protective Behaviours programme, which teaches that every child has the rightto feel safe at alltimes. The programme equips children with practical tools
The children of RainbowCentrestepped
torecognise unsafesituations, understand theirrights, and confidentlyreachout to trusted adults. Through this, they learn about body awareness, consent, and the strength foundinsayingno.
As part of thisinitiative, children actively participated in creating posters and distributing them within the community. This hands-on approach moved beyond awareness; it placed children at the centreofadvocacy.
Their call was clear and unwavering: abuse against children must stop, and every child deserves to feel safe.
National Child Protection Week is commemorated annually in South Africatoraise awareness of chil-
Love 2Learn CottageSchool celebrates itsfirstbirthday
Learners and stafffrom Love 2Learn Cottage School in Jeffreys Bay celebrated the school’sfirst birthday this month. Since opening its doors in June 2025, theindependent Christian-based school has grown intoa thriving community of 80 learners from Grade RtoGrade 7, providingsupport forchildren who may struggle in traditionalclassroom settings. Themilestonemarks ayear of learning, growth and achievement,made possible throughthe dedicationofparents, staff, learners and supporters. As theschool reflects on itssuccessful first year,itlooks forward to many more years of nurturing young minds and helping everychild reachtheir full potential. PHOTO:SUPPLIED
dren’srights, as outlined in the Constitution and the Children’sAct. Led by the Department of Social Development in partnershipwith civilsociety organisations, the campaign calls on all South Africans to take shared responsibility in protecting children and breaking the cycle of abuse, neglect, and exploitation. Protecting children is not only asocial priority, it is also aconstitutional duty. Themessage is both urgent and hopeful: when children areempowered to speak,communities are called to listen and to act. Creating safer environments for children begins with recognising their voices as powerful, valid, and worthy of protection.
Community membersare encouraged to seek help and supportwhen needed. Locally they can contact Child WelfareSAinHumansdorp on 042 940 0612; the Department of Social Development’s24-hour Gender-Based Violence Command Centre is available on 0800 428 428, or by dialling 1207867# from amobile phone. Additional supportservices include Childline South Africa(116) and Child WelfareSouth Africa(0861 4CHILD).
DIARY|DAGBOEK
Nifty FiftiesPlus Club: Theclub forseniors in Jeffreys Baywill have ameetingonFriday, 5June,at09:30 at theMethodistChurch, opposite theCaravan Park in Da Gama Road. Theentranceisat2 Petunia Street.Entry is R10.Qualify forluckydrawprizes andlistento aguest speaker.Contact083 2770088 Klereverkoping:DieNGKerkDaGamaKampus se klereverkopingsal op Vrydag, 5Junie vana 14:00 to 15:30 plaasvind.Pryse vanafR5. Easy ArtWith OilPencils: Join theclass forbeginners at Oppi-Spektrum Coffee Shop on June6from09:00.WhatsApp Marleneat 066 486 8611.
Jeffreys BayCar BootSale: Join thebargain hunt in Da Gama Road, opposite the caravanpark, from 08:00 to 13:00 on 6June. Theentranceisat2 Petunia Street.Contact Corineat082 9222260
CommunityMarket: TheOur Market for Our Communitywill takeplace at theNewton Hallon13June.Contact082 828 1899 Milkwood SaturdayMarket: Don’t miss thehand-made crafts,jewellery,décor items, wood crafteditems, clothing,treats, fresh vegetables,flowers, bottledproducts,second-handitemsandmoreatthemarketon13 June, from 09:00 to 13:00 (weather permitting). Attie will be on stagefor liveentertainment.The market is locatedonthe GLA road next to Fountains Mall. It will alsotakeplace on 27 June.
Basic First Aid: All arewelcome to join and learn thebasicsand know howtorespondin an emergencyon13June at Oppi-Spektrum Coffee Shop in thePoliclinic in Jeffreys Bay. WhatsApp Marleneon066 486 8611.
C-Fees: Maak regvir die NG Gemeente JeffreysbaaisejaarlikseC-Feesop20Junievanaf 08:00 by die Kompleks-kampus. Dit beloof om ’n dag gevul metpret,plesier,stalletjiesen tonne lekker eetgoed te wees Basaar: Ondersteun AP Kerk Jeffreysbaai se basaar op 27 Junie vanaf08:00 by die kerkgronde.Genietdie lekker eet- en drinkgoed, witolifanttafel, handwerk items en vele meer Kontak Nicoby079 9777219ofAntoinette by 083 210 1431.
Friends of the Library: Fullyoperational on Wednesdays andFridays from 09:00 to 12:00.A largevariety of booksinvery good conditionareavailableatverylowpricesinthe Newton HallinGoedehoop Street.All funds go towardsbuying booksfor theJeffreys Bay Library
