OCEANVIEWHOUSINGPROJECT:
First75homesnearcompletion First75homesn rc plet
THE first 75 houses – forming part of the initial phase of 568 units, valued at over R94.5 million and included in the broader Ocean View 1 500 Housing Project – are scheduled for completion and handover to beneficiaries by the end of July 2025
This milestone is a significant step towards restoring dignity and enhancing the quality of life for residents who have long awaited proper housing.
Kouga Executive Mayor, Hattingh Bornman, hailed the project as a beacon of progress for the community. “We are very excited to finally see these houses take shape. For many of our residents, this is the first time they will know the dignity of having a place to call their own,” he said
The housing development includes 24 duplex units – a first for Kouga Local Municipality – as well as 36 semi-detached homes, several of which are designed to be paraplegic-friendly, and 16 homes specially built for disabled residents.
The project also boasts completed internal services, including water, sewer, roads, and electricity infrastructure, at a cost of nearly
Kouga Executive Mayor, Hattingh Bornman, hailed the project as a beacon of progress for the community PHOTO: SUPPLIED
R50 million.
“This project is a vital part of our broader commitment to housing delivery and sustainable human settlements,” said Bornman.
“We are building communities, not just houses It’s about integration, accessibility, and giving people real opportunities to thrive.”
JoshuaProject’scommunitygardenseeksrevivalafterfundingsetback
RAZAAN PLAATJIES
A THRIVING community vegetable garden that has been a lifeline for vulnerable children in the Jeffreys Bay community is seeking new support to return to full operation after a funding shortfall forced it into temporary dormancy
The Joshua Project Vegetable Garden, run by a well-established 27-year-old non-profit organisation based in Jeffreys Bay and Humansdorp, has long maintained the garden primarily to support its kitchen
In 2020, the organisation embraced the Farming God's Way method, transforming the garden into a more purposeful and sustainable initiative
What began as a modest effort has since grown into a thriving example of smallscale, faith-based farming that promotes environmental stewardship and food security
She said that what started as a small plot primarily supporting the organisation's kitchen eventually evolved into a powerful community resource that provided fresh, nutritious produce while serving as a hands-on training ground for aspiring young farmers
Joshua Project operates a drop-in centre for vulnerable children at risk and those living on the streets, following their M E N D approach Mentoring, Education, Nurturing, and Discipleship
The organisation s homework support programme welcomes learners from all local schools, helping 80 to over 100 learners each month
"For many of the children supported by Joshua Project, this garden has been a blessing," said Dhludhlu
"It ensures access to nutritious meals every day, directly improving their health and concentration at school Even more special is the fact that some children were
She said that the organisation has recently installed a brand-new wash and pack station, improving hygiene and food handling to ensure produce is safe and market-ready
"With the right support, the garden could be up and running within just a week That's how close it is to flourishing again; it just needs people to step in and lend a hand," said Dhludhlu
She said that the organisation's immediate need is for a dedicated, funded garden manager and five consistent volunteers who can each contribute two to three hours twice weekly
Dhludhlu said that they are also seeking restaurants and community members willing to commit to purchasing vegetables from the garden to ensure sustainability
Before the funding challenge, she said the garden produced high-demand vegetables, including leafy greens, root vegeta-
rale," said Dhludhlu
The organisation is also seeking a volunteer with a marketing background and strong administrative skills to promote vegetables, manage advertising campaigns, drive sales, and calculate profits and losses
Looking ahead, Dhludhlu envisions restoring the garden to full productivity not only to feed children and families but also to help raise funds, create local job opportunities, and reduce poverty in the surrounding community
"The dream is to restore the garden to full productivity A thriving garden represents so much more than food; it s about sustainability, dignity, and hope," said Dhludhlu
Community members interested in supporting the Joshua Project Vegetable Garden through volunteering, purchasing produce, or other assistance can contact Natasha Dhludhlu at 071 472 0844
LocalproductioncompanycompletespilotfilminKouga
LOCAL film production company, Galaxy Castings, successfully completed the filming of a pilot project from June 23 to 26, marking a major milestone for the creative industry in the region
The shoot took place across various locations in the Kouga region, bringing together a blend of local actors and professional talent from Cape Town and Johannesburg
The pilot project, which forms part of a larger vision to produce a feature film titled Kruisfontein, attracted well-known industry professionals such as Maurice Carpede and Roderick Jaftha from the renowned South African film, Red Zone, alongside Denzil Booysen, a respected actor and producer from Humansdorp, who played the role of Leon Assistant producer, Marshall Geswint, said that the pilot project would contribute greatly to the Kouga economy
"This pilot is not just a stepping stone to a feature film, it is part of our broader mission to contribute to job creation, enterprise development, and social cohesion in Kouga," said Geswint
Directed, shot and edited by Llewellyn Breda, who also served as cinematographer, the pilot is now in post-production
As the producer of the film, Booysen is leading the vision to see the feature film Kruisfon-
tein through to full production, followed by plans to develop a drama series and eventually a locally produced telenovela all filmed within Kouga
Galaxy Castings also announced its intention to launch an equipment rental company aimed at supporting other filmmakers and videographers across the Eastern Cape
The team is actively seeking partnerships with businesses, offering product placement opportunities in the upcoming Kruisfontein feature
"We believe in building the local economy through storytelling This is a call to action for both business leaders and the community This is more than just a film – it's a movement to turn Kouga into a creative powerhouse," said Geswint
Galaxy Castings has extended its heartfelt appreciation to Humansdorp Boutique Hotel for their warm hospitality in providing accommodation and meals to visiting actors
They have also offered special thanks to Wimpy Humansdorp for sponsoring breakfasts, and to Tsitsikamma Crystal Water for their generous donation of water throughout the three-day shoot
• Anyone interested in supporting or collaborating with the project is encouraged to contact Galaxy Castings via email at info@galaxycastings co za or WhatsApp at 073 020 7394
StFrancisAnimalRescuehosts ‘pawtest’topromotepetadoption
RAZAAN PLAATJIES
ST Francis Animal Rescue organised a spirited "pawtest" event on June 28, with volunteers marching along local roads carrying placards to encourage pet adoption and raise awareness about animal welfare in the community
The demonstration, held in St Francis, was organised by the local non-profit organisation dedicated to rescuing and rehabilitating neglected and abused animals in the Sea Vista community
The organisation has been operating for nine years, focusing on rescuing mistreated dogs and cats, providing medical care, and finding them forever homes, all without the overhead costs of maintaining a permanent shelter
Susan Rae Fox, founder and chairperson of St Francis Animal Rescue, said that there is no doubt that dire poverty increases the likelihood of owners surrendering their dogs
"If you can't afford to feed your children, feeding your pets becomes impossible," said Fox
She further explained that economic challenges are just one factor contributing to pet abandonment
Fox said that many owners surrender their dogs once they become adults and, through lack of proper care and training, begin displaying problematic behaviours
"Through lack of proper care and any form of training, the dogs can begin to display aggression to other dogs or frustration leading to running away, digging in the yard, barking at intruders and potentially, biting intruders," said Fox "All this behaviour is the direct result of neglect on the part of owners and can be rectified, but there is little will to work with dogs, and it appears much easier to give them away "
The organisation's rescued animals are housed in private kennels run by Juadeen Van
Rooyen in Humansdorp, where they receive proper care before adoption
"Many dogs rescued from neglect or deliberate cruelty need time to start to feel safe before they can be adopted," said Fox
"Here, where they are provided with shelter and nutritious meals, they are regularly visited by our volunteer dog walkers who provide love, exercise and regular training "
Fox emphasised that potential adopters need patience during the adjustment period
"Once adopted, these dogs take a few days to adjust to new surroundings and other pets All adopters need patience during this time Many dogs have never slept indoors and need to feel welcome and fully accepted in all the spaces available to them," said Fox
She said that the rehabilitation process requires time and commitment from new families "It will take at least three weeks for these dogs to relax, decompress and get used to new rules, habits and routines It will take three months before an adopted dog feels fully integrated as a loved family member," said Fox
She made a compelling case for adopting rescue animals rather than purchasing pedigree dogs Fox said that shelters throughout the country are overwhelmed by the ever-increasing number of dogs given away every day by owners who no longer want them
"These dogs have been let down by humans and face the very real possibility of euthanasia in weeks if they are not adopted," said Fox
She highlighted the unique bond that develops between rescue animals and their new families Fox said that rescues, taken into loving homes from lives of deprivation, show their gratitude to their adopters for the remainder of their lives
"They give boundless trust and loyalty in return for a home and a family to care for," said Fox
DIARY | DAGBOEK
Milkwood Saturday Market: Drive in and browse through our local friendly market under the milkwood trees on July 26 from 09:00 to 13:00 (weather permitting) Winter season opening at 09:00 They are located on the GLA road next to the Fountains Mall
Home-made crafts clothing homemade goods fresh vegetables flowers honey braai goods biltong farm fresh meat, good food and more are sold
Bargains Galore: Clothes, crockery and household goods will be for sale on Saturday July 26 from 10:00 to 14:00 at the Paul Fahy Catholic Community Centre on the corner of Butterfly and Dolly Vardin Streets
Jeffreys Bay Car Boot Sale: Join the bargain hunt in Da Gama Road opposite the caravan park from 08:00 to 13:00 The next one will take place on August 2 The entrance is at 2 Petunia Street Contact Corine at 082 922 2260
MusicalsinBloom:Die datum kruip nader na Vrydag 8 Augustus om 14:30 Eb Flo blommeklub gaan jou verras Kry nou jou kaartjie Phantom of the Opera, My Fair Lady, Joseph Le Miserables Beauty and the Beast en nog meer Ons gaan hierdie "Musicals" skouspelagtig met blomme uitbeeld by die Gereformeerde Kerk Jeffreysbaai Heerlike verversings ingesluit Koste slegs R125 per persoon Kontak die voorsitter Anita Jordaan by 0725337725 Orchid Show: The Eastern Province Orchid Society will have their annual Orchid Show at "The Venue" at Walmer Park Shopping Centre on Friday August 29 from 13:00 to 18:00, Saturday August 30 from 09:00 to 17:00 and Sunday August 31 from 09:00 to 14:00 There will be a talk and repotting demonstration on Saturday at 11:00 and several orchids will be for sale Entry is R10 on Friday, and R20 on Saturday and Sunday Don't forget to enter the raffle for R10 to win something nice Contact Christo at 083 703 0458 or Annemarie at 074 852 7877
NINETEEN-year-old surfer, Joshua Jansen, a familiar face along the local coastline, is preparing for a very different kind of challenge, competing in the finale of Mr Teen World South Africa later this month. Set to take place on July 26 in Johannesburg, the pageant brings together finalists from across the country in a competition that highlights not just appearance, but also personality, public speaking and community involvement.
Jansen, who is more often seen in boardshorts than formalwear, said entering the pageant wasn’t something he had anticipated “I never imagined I’d be doing something like this,” he said. “Surfing is still my first love, but I’m excited to take part in Mr Teen.”
The competition, which is part of the World South Africa Pageants network, encourages young men to engage in causes beyond themselves. Jansen has been involved in local beach cleanups and occasionally mentors younger surfers, experiences that he believes have shaped his approach to leadership and self-discipline As he prepares for the final round, Jansen said the support from his community has been one of the most encouraging aspects of the journey so far “It’s been amazing to feel that backing,” he said. Voting is open to the public, and supporters can help him advance by sending the phrase “WSAP 2096” via SMS to 47439. Each vote costs R3, and there’s no limit to the number of times you can vote. Jansen shares updates from his journey on Instagram at @jxshjnsn_, while the official pageant account, @worldsouthafricapageants, offers a closer look at the competition behind the scenes
From left are André Julies, Anesca Swart and David Thompson.
PHOTO: SUPPLIED
MARCIA BOYENS
Joshua Jansen.
PHOTO: SOVRIN PHOTOGRAPHY
Fromfilingclerktofootballtrailblazer
IN the little town of Thornhill, just outside the hustle of Kouga’s municipal centre, lives a woman rewriting the playbook of local sports leadership
At 28, Ziyanda Kilimani is m a filing clerk at Kouga Local M
ipality’s Community and Safe Services, more than a mother and far more than just another face in the crowd
She is the founder of Thornhill Uprising Stars Football Club, a beacon of hope for dozens of boys in her community and the first woman in Kouga to lead a football team to Inland Stream Premier League victory
“I grew up playing netball,” Ki ni chuckles “Never in a million years did I think I’d run a football club ”
But inspiration came unexpectedly after watching business
wn Mkhize, lead the Royal AM F
“She sparked something in m do more, to build something th said Kilimani
club was relegated in the 2022/23 season, a blow to its morale “That season broke our hearts,” she admit-
That perseverance paid off as the Stars hed the Inland Stream Premier ague title – a historic achievement, led by a woman at the helm
communication and unwavering belief in her players Annual prizegivings, commuty engagement, and mentorship a e just some of the tools in her kit
“It is about creating men of character – future fathers, leaders and contributors to society It is about building a legacy that says girls and
What began as an informal gat age boys in 2019 – playfully dub hood” – quickly evolved into greater By 2022, the group ha official league registration, and rescue the boy child from the s g the discipline and camaraderie of football
Raisingateam–andacommunity
Now with over 60 boys across three divisions (u/11, u/15, and u/21), Thornhill Uprising Stars is more than just a team It is a movement Kilimani’s role stretches beyond that of coach or club founder
“Most of my boys are raised by single mothers,” she said “I don’t just coach them – I mother them ”
The journey wasn’t without setbacks The
R20000ingesamelvirStFrancisHospice
Kouga Sages het onlangs ‘n gholfdag by Jeffreysbaai Gholfklub aangebied ten bate van St Francis Hospice. ‘n Bedrag van R20 000 kon aan St Francis Hospice oorhandig word wat aangewend kan word vir die omvattende werk wat hulle doen. Hospice bied tuisbesoekdiens en ondersteuning vir terminale en ongeneeslike siek volwassenes, kinders en hul families in die Kouga area aan. Van links is Suster Nadine Puzicha (St Francis Hospice) , Celéste Scheepers (voorsitter Kouga Sages) en Suster Ingrid Williams (St Francis Hospice). FOTO: VERSKAF
JBaySanctuaryseekshomesforfourdogs
JBay Animal Rescue Sanctuary, which sterilises at least 80 animals every month in the Kouga region, is located in Ocean View Township in Jeffreys Bay The organisation is looking for forever homes for these dogs
Twiggy is around 14 weeks old and will be a medium-sized Africanis When she arrived at the Sanctuary, she was bright pink and had no hair Now, she is absolutely beautiful, and she is ready for her new home
Bunny is such a beautiful mixed-breed male dog He is around 3 years old and will make the perfect family dog
Jemma is 11 months old She is a medium-sized mixed breed She is an absolute gem with lots of energy and would love to go for a long walk or even a run each day
Foxy is looking for her forever home She is so cute and loves to cuddle She is around 12 weeks old and will be a medium-sized mixed-breed with longer hair
For more info, or to visit the
Steve Hofmeyr gaan sy aanhangers vermaak by die Jolly Dolphin op Jeffreysbaai op 18 Julie. Dié Suid-Afrikaanse instelling spog met meer as drie dekades in die musiekbedryf, met 40 treffers, 33 albums, 10 films, 11 boeke en duisende konserte agter sy naam.
Die deure by Jolly Dolphin maak om 18:00 oop en die konsert begin om 20:00. Kaartjies teen R200 is beskikbaar by Jolly Dolphin of aanlyn by Quicket. FOTO: VERSKAF
Players from Thornhill Uprising Stars Football Club.