

KAILINDANIELS
KAILIN DANIELS@NOVUSMEDIA CO ZA
In a personal call for change local resident Troy Davies, who has been directly impacted by the surge in criminal activity on the N7 highway, is urging the community to demand better safety measures by signing a petition
His family recently became victims of a frightening smashand-grab incident at a major intersection leading off the N7 (Malibongwe Drive), an experience that has prompted
him to take action, according to the petition he posted online TygerBurger reported numerous times of recent incidents of smash-and-grab crimes along Malibongwe Drive and the N7 highway, raising concerns among residents and commuters These areas, particularly near Dunoon, have become hot spots for such
criminal activities
In July 2024 a series of brazen smash-and-grab incidents were captured on drone footage, showing a suspect in a bright orange shirt breaking car windows along Malibongwe Drive and the N7
specimen collectors, to friends, families and especially children. Free entrance Learn more about the hobby of crystal, gem and mineral specimen collecting and related craftwork, or buy items from member traders. For more information, visit www ctminsoc.org.za or email capetowngemmineralclub@gmail.com
SUNDAY4MAY
.Run for those who can’t by taking part in the 12th edition of the Wings for Life World Run in Greenpoint, Cape Town. With every step, you’re powering life-changing spinal cord research and pushing us closer to a future where paralysis no longer holds anyone back. The run starts at 13:00 at Cape Town P9 Greenpoint: Vlei Rd, in front of the Green Point Athletics Track. For more information, visit www wingsforlifeworldrun.com
WOENSDAG7MEI
.Die Durbanville/ Tygerberg-tuin-en-blommeklub se mini-blommeskou is in die Metodiste-kerksaal, Bowlerslaan, Durbanville om 10:00 (Prysuitdeling om 12:00). Toegang/inskrywingsfooi is R50 Ruan Eastes gaan 'n tuinpraatjie lewer Die tema van die blommekunskompetisie is "Meet me in the garden". Die sluitingsdatum vir blommekuns-inskrywings is 30 April Bel Beatrix Lambert-Bestbier by 082 873 9864 vir meer inligting
DONDERDAG8MEI
.Die VLV Brackenfell Varings vergader om 09:30 by Die Ark aan die kant van die NG kerk Brackenfell-Wes se kerkgebou in Ferndalestraat Dit is 'n prettige naaldwerkoggend - bring asb 'n hekelpen, 2 kleure wol, 'n notaboek en 'n skryfding saam Teegeld R20 en die lootjies vir 'n gelukstrekking, R5 elk.
FRIDAY10MAY
.Animal lovers and philanthropists are invited to an evening of elegance and generosity at the second annual Mdzananda Animal Clinic Gala Dinner and Auction at 18:30 at the Two Oceans Aquarium. Guests will be treated to a delicious two-course dinner prepared by top chefs, a sweet treat for desert, and complimentary table wine to toast to a great cause An auction featuring exclusive items and experiences will be held. Tickets are available at Quicket (https:// qkt.io/1PepxN) or by emailing fund@mdzananda co.za.
WOENSDAG14MEI
.Die Durbanville-poësiekring se volgende byeenkoms vind plaas op Woensdag 14 Mei in die Durbanville-biblioteeksaal. Dr Dietloff van der Berg gaan sy belangstelling in die romantiese en mistieke digkuns en reis tot by Rumi deel in die bespreking oor sy vertaalde bundel: Rumi: Liefdesverse en aanhalings Die koste is R50 vir gaste of R200 per jaar vir lede Verversings, koffie of tee sal voorsien word. Kontak Lesley van der Vyver sekretaresse by teachervdv@ gmail.com of 083 460 4571 om te bespreek.
TUESDAY20MAY
.Bellville Library will host a book launch for Kristel Loots's book Woestynblom in the auditorium from 17:00 till 18:00 RSVP by 14 May via email to Bellville Library@capetown.gov.za or DanielleFrancis.philander@capetown.gov.za, or call 021 444 0300
footage prompted also local authorities to take action According to reports police arrested individuals linked to these incidents following the release of the drone footage One suspect was apprehended during a routine check at Table View Police Station, and subsequent investigations led to the identification and arrest of two accomplices
“This has been a deeply personal experience for us,” said Davies in his petition “We were targeted at one of the key intersections, a place many people rely on daily It’s not just about my family, but the fear that has taken over our entire community ”
Davies is not alone in his concern
Increasingly, local residents are living in constant fear of daylight robberies and hijackings The problem has escalated to the point where commuters are avoiding key infrastructure, such as the multimillion-rand Malibongwe road structure, once designed to serve the community Now many choose to bypass it for safer routes
Areas like the N7, Malibongwe, and Potsdam Road intersections have become notorious hotspots for criminal activity What was once seen as a critical access point to and from the city is now viewed with trepidation The result is a frustrating cycle: residents avoid these areas, leading to more traffic congestion in nearby neighbourhoods and a growing sense of insecurity
As highlighted by Davies, one of the contributing factors to the ongoing crime surge is the illegal occupation of land, particularly in the Dunoon community, where criminals have found refuge According to Davies, these issues are not isolated incidents but have become part of the daily reality for many in the area
He emphasises that merely telling people to avoid these routes is not a sustainable solution
“The infrastructure is there, and it’s valuable We cannot just ignore it and let it sit unused,” Davies said “We need real action to address the root causes and make our streets safer again ”
The solution, according to Davies, lies in ensuring a permanent police presence in these high-risk areas He believes that enforcing law and order is the first crucial step in reclaiming the safety of the community, revitalising the area’s infrastructure, and curbing the illegal activities that have plagued the region
“The time for change is now,” he added “We need to send a clear message that enough is enough Our infrastructure must be used to its full potential, and our community deserves to feel safe again ” In response to the growing concern,
Help us reclaim our community, sign your name and let your voice be heard," said Davies
The petition aims to gather widespread support for permanent safety measures and to put pressure on local authorities to take immediate action in these high-risk areas As the problem of crime continues to escalate, many hope that this call for action will be the first step towards a safer and more secure environment for all Just a few weeks ago, a terrifying experience unfolded for an Uber passenger travelling from the airport to Melkbosstrand Just past Dunoon, the vehicle encountered steel beams and debris placed across the road, causing the driver nearly to lose control
Despite the damage to the car, including two flat tyres, the driver continued slowly to avoid stopping, eventually driving another 4 km before the car broke down Efforts to call the police went unanswered, and when contacting the Melkbosstrand Police Station, officers informed the passengers it was outside their jurisdiction and would contact Table View police While waiting for help the passengers attempted to flag other drivers down, but no one stopped After 40 minutes, a kind samaritan, Shane Warne from Atlantis, came to their aid, and only then did the police arrive
The incident highlights the dangers of driving along this stretch of the N7, particularly at night The passengers urge others to avoid this area and stress the need for increased safety measures, including a solid wall along the municipal verges of highways near townships, to prevent such incidents in the future, said local resident Agi Orfanos
WARNING
In response to these incidents, local crime fighters have warned motorists to be vigilant when driving in the Table View and Milnerton areas The intersections along Potsdam Road and Malibongwe Drive have been identified as hotspots for smash-and-grab crimes Police spokesperson Capt Adriana Chandler advised motorists to lock valuable items in the boot, ensure windows are closed, and doors are locked to reduce the risk of becoming victims
The recent arrests and public awareness efforts underscore the importance of community vigilance and collaboration with law enforcement to combat these crimes Authorities continue to monitor the situation and encourage residents to report any suspicious activities to help maintain safety in the area
. To help Davies and motorists, sign the petition via https://www.change.org/p/ implement-permanent-police-presence-atmalibongwe-intersection-on-n7-highway
KAILINDANIELS
KAILIN DANIELS@NOVUSMEDIA CO ZA
Aseries of violent stabbings along Koeberg Road left two people critically injured on Wednesday 23 April, prompting swift action from the Milnerton Crime Watch Trust (MCWT) and local police
At approximately 14:29, MCWT received a call reporting a stabbing outside the Cash Crusaders store in Milnerton Patrol supervisor Gert Prinsloo and patrolman Cassiem immediately responded to the scene, where they found a female victim suffering from multiple stab wounds Emergency services were called and quickly transported the critically-injured woman to hospital for urgent care
Subsequent enquiries led patrol teams to discover further stabbing incidents along Koeberg Road, heading towards the Milnerton Police Station A suspect was arrested by police officers near the police station shortly after the attacks Authorities had yet to establish a motive for the stabbings
WITNESSES
Witnesses described the chaos and fear that gripped the busy commercial area “I was standing outside the shop when I heard screaming,” said Leanne Cummings “When I looked up I saw a woman collapse People were panicking and
SAW
running everywhere ”
Another eyewitness, Pieter Botha, recalled the confusion “It was total mayhem for a few minutes Everyone was trying to get out of the way I saw someone chasing the attacker down the road before the police arrived MCWT and the police were incredible Within minutes they were securing the area and getting people to safety It could have been much worse if they hadn’t acted so quickly ” It was later confirmed one of the critically-injured victims was the wife of James Jonker, a well-known community member who previously supported MCWT’s signboard project Police were urging anyone who may have witnessed the incidents and had not yet come forward to contact the Milnerton police In a statement MCWT expressed their gratitude to their team and police for their professionalism and teamwork in handling the multiple scenes, and extended their thoughts and prayers to the victims and their families
Investigations are ongoing
DESIREE RORKE@NOVUSMED A CO ZA
The Western Cape Government has reported a slight drop in road-related fatalities over the Easter weekend, with 22 lives lost between April 17 and 21, down from 26 during the same period last year
While the decline is welcomed, officials continue to emphasise the importance of responsible road behaviour as another long weekend looms
The provincial government’s mobility and health departments deployed teams across the region during the peak travel period to enforce safety measures and provide emergency assistance
According to official data, 22 fatal crashes occurred over the Easter weekend, resulting in the said deaths The Cape metro region recorded the highest number of incidents The breakdown of fatalities includes 14 pedestrians, five passengers, two drivers, and one motorcyclist losing their lives
According to officials, 14 of the deaths occurred on municipal roads, while eight
were reported on provincial routes
VIOLATIONS
The provincial traffic services were active throughout the Easter period, conducting 784 integrated operations, including roadblocks, vehicle checkpoints, and speed enforcement activities, says a spokesperson of the mobility department
Over 30 000 vehicles were stopped and checked, and 8 714 speeding violations recorded while more than 19 000 traffic fines were issued A total of 226 arrests were made, with 181 being for drunk driving
“We are encouraged by the reduction in fatalities, but our message remains clear: road safety is a shared responsibility,” said a spokesperson for the Western Cape mobility department “With another long weekend ahead, we urge all road users to prioritize safety, plan ahead, and never drive under the influence ”
The Western Cape Government plans to maintain high visibility and continue road safety operations throughout the upcoming public holiday period
to Community Medics once his studies are complete Her daughter is an active member of her school’s first-aid team and a Sea Scout first aider The Norton family is truly a Community Medics family
“I feel blessed to have two incredible children who understand the importance of first aid and community service,” said their mom “They’ve both stepped up in public emergencies and I couldn’t be prouder ”
As a non-profit organisation, Community Medics relies on donations, debit orders, and sponsorships to continue its lifesaving work Norton, alongside other dedicated volunteers, plays an integral part in ensuring the ongoing success of the organisation
SUPPORTINGCOMMUNITYMEDICS By supporting Community Medics through a one-time or recurring sponsorship you can directly contribute to its mission of saving lives “Your support truly makes a tangible difference in our community,” Norton said “We are grateful for every bit of help we receive to continue our life-saving work ” . Community Medics, a PBO, can issue Section 18A certificates for donations, allowing donors to claim a tax deduction Visit https://pay yoco com/community-medics
Shop for affordable pre-loved treasures, grab a bargain and make a difference at the Home of Hope Charity Shop, where every purchase helps change a child’s life It is open every Saturday from 08:30 to 14:00 at the home’s premises, 215 Blaauwberg Road, Table View
All proceeds go directly towards creating a meaningful life for abused, abandoned and neglected children in South Africa, with a focus on those affected by Foetal Alcohol Spectrum Disorder (FASD), which is permanent brain damage caused by prenatal ingestion of alcohol Swing by, bring a friend and support a cause that matters
The Drama Lab’s 2025 annual theatrical offering isDisney’s Aladdin Jr.Bursting with nostalgic,irresistible,singable tunes - this show is guaranteed to lift your heart and get it singing This much-loved musical will be performed from Friday 9 May to Saturday 17 May at Table View Primary School
Aladdin Jr is an award-winning musical based on the beloved 1992 film, with music by Alan Menken and lyrics by Howard Ashman, Tim Rice and book by Chad Beguelin, it is the magic tale of a poor street rat Aladdin, who dares to fall in love with a privileged princess who has a mind of her own.
He is led by the devious Jafar into a cave where the Genie of the Lamp changes his life forever
Aladdin’s adventurous spirit and street-wise attitude take him down a road of self-discovery and he finds his purpose and the love of his life Aladdin, Jasmine, Genie and a host of other characters will see to it that good conquers evil and will delight children and adults alike
This version is adapted by the creators and is
devised to be a bit shorter than the original. It is the perfect vehicle for young audiences and performers.
This production is mounted by The Drama Lab a Drama and Musical Theatre training studio in the heart of Table View (since 2016).
Direction and choreography are in the hands of mother and daughter team Julie Dickson (Drama Lab mentor and founder), and Fleur du Cap awardee Bethany Dickson.
Both are experienced theatre performers and theatre makers. Creating a fresh take on this iconic musical in the Disney cannon of work has been so much fun and a rewarding challenge
"Due to the amazing generosity of Table View Primary School, The Drama Lab family has had a home for the rehearsal period and have an airy performance space for this production " says Lee Merryweather from Drama Lab
.Prices are from R144 No children under four years. Bookings can be done via Quicket: https://www quicket co.za/events/215034-disney-aladdin-jr/
Margit Meyer-Rödenbeck, wat al verskeie toekennings en nominasies vir haar kinderteater ontvang het, is die vervaardiger van ’n nuwe kinderteaterproduksie, Woordedief, wat in Mei by die Kunstekaap-teater op die planke sal wees.
Die Woordedief is ’n stoute kalant wat jaloers is op almal wat kan lees en alles probeer om woorde, stories, letters, sinne en sommer enige rondloper-gedagtes te steel tot groot ontsteltenis van kinders wat baie graag wil leer lees, spel en skryf, en veral stories wil hoor Al die produksie se stories kom uit die voorgeskrewe grondslagfase-boekies van NB Uitgewers
Die maats moet kom help keer dat Pol Pou, Robbie Robot en Zietie By nie in die Woordedief se sak beland en vir altyd verlore raak nie Kleurvolle dekor en kostuums, koddige karakters en musiek wat die kleintjies sal laat wikkel nooi groot en klein om deel te raak van die voortsnellende aksie
Die lirieke is deur Meyer-Rödenbeck en haar dogter, Luca Human, geskryf en deur Coenraad Rall en Luca getoonset
Die vier akteurs is Eldon van der Merwe, Wian Taljaard, Kerscha Titus en Mia van der Merwe
Die uur lange produksie sal van Maandag 5 tot Donderdag 8 Mei om 09:30 in die Kunstekaap-operahuis te sien wees as deel van Suidoosterfees Junior . Stuur e-pos aan margit@dieboer.com of skakel 0833033430 vir besprekings
5-8MEI
Woordedief sal in die Kunstekaap-operahuis te sien wees as deel van Suidoosterfees Junior
The Big Bay Surf Lifesaving Club’s Masters team made waves at the Nationals in both Stillwater and Surf and set a South African record in Stillwater this past weekend “Your hard work,passion and team spirit inspire us all,”the club said.“Proud to see you flying the Big Bay flag high! Here’s to even more records and unforgettable moments ahead ”
KAILINDANIELS
KAILIN DANIELS@NOVUSMEDIA CO ZA
The Melkbosstrand High School
480 kg Girls Tug of War team has achieved a historic milestone by being selected to represent South Africa at the 2025 Tug of War International Federation (TWIF) World Championships in Nottingham, England
This marks the first time a team from Melkbosstrand High will compete on the international stage, a dream realised through the hard work, discipline, and dedication of its young athletes
The team recently clinched gold at the South African Junior Championships in Mossel Bay, securing their place at the prestigious event
“We are incredibly proud of the passion and perseverance our girls have shown throughout the season,” a spokesperson for the school said “This is a historic moment not just for the team, but for our entire school community ”
MEETTHETEAM
The 480 kg girls team representing South Africa includes:
.Mia Crous; .Carli de Ridder; .Lize Erasmus; .Samantha Pieterse; .Tiana Strydom; .Anja van Jaarsveld; .Jordan van Wyk; .Kiera Kachelhoffer; .Caitlyn Cooper and .Erin Visagie
Each athlete has earned her place through unwavering commitment and countless hours of training, balancing rigorous practices with academic responsibilities
CALLFORSUPPORT
While the selection is a significant honour the opportunity comes with substantial financial demands The tour to England is entirely self-funded, with each athlete needing to cover costs such as a passport, visa, international flights, accommodation, meals, uniform, gear, local transport and competitionregistration fees
The school is appealing to the community and local businesses for
support to help cover these expenses
“Any donation, no matter the size, will make a difference,” the team said “You are not just helping fund a trip, but investing in the growth of young leaders and the future of South African Tug of War ”
Since the introduction of Tug of War at Melkbosstrand High School in 2012 the sport has flourished Today more than 38 learners participate competitively, with the school enjoying a successful 2024 season across multiple categories:
.520 kg Boys – 1st Place (WP/Wynland);
.520 kg Girls – 1st Place (WP/Wynland);
.440 kg Girls – 1st Place (WP/Wynland);
.480 kg Girls – 1st Place (WP/Wynland);
.440 kg Girls – 1st Place (WK Regional Championships);
.520 kg Boys – 1st Place (WK Regional Championships);
.440 kg Girls – 2nd Place (SA Nationals);
.520 kg Girls – 2nd Place (SA Nationals) and
.480 kg Girls – 1st Place (SA Nationals, International Weight category)
Tug of War is an internationally recognised sport under TWIF, South Africa making significant strides on the global stage The selection of the Melkbosstrand team is seen as further proof of the country's growing legacy in the sport
The 2025 World Championships are about more than just competition They offer a platform for young women to gain international experience, develop leadership skills and represent their country with pride
“This is an opportunity to inspire others and to promote a sport that teaches strength, discipline and teamwork,” said the school "By supporting our girls, you are backing a cause that builds resilience, national pride, and a bright future for South African sport ” . For those that want to take part and help the team reach their goal visit www.givealittlelove co.za
I had a dream of becoming a journalist from Grade 5, when a teacher helped me recognise my gift of the written word And despite much discouragement of having faith in one's own career dreams, I went on to realise them
Once realised, soon enough it became abundantly clear that this was the right choice, making a difference through telling the stories of others
I always say we are often the voiceless soldiers behind the published works, rewarded by a simple byline at the top for our efforts No personal opinions, no guided narratives So on these few occasions we give readers insight into the person who is the subject of our newspaper
For those who may not know me, or my story, my name is Samantha (although I never hear my full name unless I'm in trouble, of course) I had a dream of becoming a journalist at People's Post newspaper, specifically writing for Mitchells Plain, the area I was born and finished my schooling in, and to which I still a have very deep sense of belonging, even though my family moved out of the area at the start of high-school years
I was inspired to make a difference by telling the positive news from the area, amid continuous front-page articles about all the deepest darkest happenings in the area
My dream was largely realised in 2014 as an intern, on the newspaper's Lansdowne edition But slowly God let the full dream unfold, and in time I wrote for the prized edition for Mitchells Plain What was meant to be a six-month internship ended
..
after three months with a full-time offer It was an opportunity to prove myself Consequently, I believe I personify the saying "If you love what you do you won't work a day in your life "
With more than 50 awards, commendations, finalist nominations and recognitions along the more-than-10year span of my career, and having the privilege of featuring in almost every major journalism competition in the country I never imagined doing anything else And honestly, through all of this I have learnt many valuable lessons
You know, one cannot tell the future; I mean, if you asked me a few years ago where I'd be at this point my answer would probably have been the same as it was then
Tomorrow I will officially close a chapter of my life At 32 I stand at the precipice of major change I once believed it was too late for me to start over I recognise the magnitude of this new career move, an opportunityto make a fresh start, a whole new beginning, which is more than many can do right now In fact, I didn't want to write this column at all, for fear it would be a tad too emotional My colleagues were quite adamant that I write this, my swansong, and how glad I am that I obliged
For the past 10-and-a-half years, People's Post, and later TygerBurger (as the publication name changed), has become such a huge part of my identity, a publication I have passionately advocated for, and it has been such an incredible ride And while it is with a heavy heart that I officially bid farewell to my career as a reporter today I am so immensely grateful for all I have achieved on this most fulfilling of journeys
Thank you for the memories, for the platform, for the opportunity to inform, inspire and entertain you along the way As I often would say in my videos, "signing out for one more time [although this time final], for People's Post news I am Samantha Lee-Jacobs "
On Friday evening I called law enforcement regarding the cars speeding in the Goodwood area
On Sunday night again cars motorbikes were revving, racing up and down the Goodwood area for hours
The law enforcement call centre had my call on hold for 10 minutes
Even though they are based in Goodwood the operator said she could not hear anything or see anything on the cameras I asked if they have double-paned windows?
The police station is also in the area Are these departments so far removed from the actual lawlessness in our residential areas?
SAVE OUR NEIGHBOURHOODS, E-mail
Ek sien Ou Toppie van Kuilsrivier kla verlede week oor Kaaps ("Ek hou nie van Kaaps", TygerBurger 23 April) Soos hy dit so mooi stel het hy 'n broertjie dood daaraan, want hy "pratie" so nie of meng nie juis met die wat so praat nie
Ek moet sê hy klink 'n bietjie verwaand synde dat hy die wat wel so praat se intellek of beskaafdheid bevraagteken (hulle het ''net-net gr 2 deurgeskraap of ken bloot nie ordentlike taal nie'' in sy woorde, of is kwasi-skrywers of akademeci wat 'n verhandeling moet regverdig) Nee goeiste Ou Toppie ek dink dit is darem so 'n aks of wat te dik vir 'n daalder en 'n bietjie neus in die lug Daar is mos plek vir skakerings in ons taal (en ja Afrikaans is almal wat dit praat s'n - ongeag hoeveel skakerings en nerings daar in daardie "ons" is)
Ek praat "okie" Kaaps nie maar hoekom sal dit 'n ander pla hoe ek praat of nie praat nie of waarom sal ek my ontstel oor hoe ander praat - miskien moet ons eerder probeer om mekaar beter te verstaan ongeag hoe die woorde oor ons lippe rol
Vir my lees Kaaps (soos in Nathan Trantraal onder andere) se skrywes 'n biejie moeilik maar ek was al aangenaam verras want soms sê dit darem 'n ding raak en gee lewe aan die storie Hier in die Kaap het ek buiten sommige Kaapse terme ook woorde uit die Moslem-gemeenskap begin leer ken Na my mening verryk dit mens net Nee wat Ou Toppie moenie so ''judgerig wesie'' Soos my ma altyd sê -leef en laat leef en gun vir almal (en hoe hulle praat) 'n plekkie in die son Viva veelkantige Afrikaans!
KARIEN, Brackenfell
I took a walk along one of Cape Town’s beautiful beaches this past weekend and was heartbroken by what I saw Plastic bottles, food wrappers, fishing line, and even broken glass littered the sand, marring what should be one of our greatest natural treasures
Cape Town is known worldwide for its stunning coastline, but without urgent action, we risk losing this priceless asset to pollution and neglect While volunteer clean-ups are admirable they are not enough The City needs to implement regular beach maintenance, stricter littering fines, and more public education campaigns about the consequences of pollution
We must also tackle the issue at the source:
improving waste management in nearby communities and encouraging recycling Installing more visible accessible bins along beach entrances could help Beaches are not just playgrounds for tourists; they are crucial ecosystems for marine life and important spaces for local communities If we fail to protect them now, future generations will inherit nothing but polluted shorelines
Saving our coastline must become a shared responsibility between the government, businesses, and all residents It’s time we treat our beaches with the respect they deserve
AURORA DANIELS, E-mail
Paasfees was 'n tyd om met familie deur te bring Om te reflekteer oor jou lewe en hoe Christus die prys vir jou betaal het om jouself af te vra lewe ek vir Hom, wat vir my gesterf het? Maar eerlikwaar ek dink ons mense het die hele punt daarvan gemis Oral rond was daar die een partytjie na die ander partytjie van vroeg tot laat of sommer heelnag deur En ja, mens kan dit sekerlik
verstaan familie het kom kuier Kom ons wees gesellig Maar hoekom moet daar dan altyd 'n bakleiery ook uitbreek en almal se naweek onplesierig maak? Wat 'n super belangrike tydperk in 'n Christen se lewe moet wees word nou geheel en al in iets anders verander Die kerke is leeg, maar die strate is vol Waarna toe is ons mensdom oppad?
BEKOMMERD, Eersterivier
I am writing to express my deep unhappiness with the recent increases in municipal tariffs which have placed an unbearable burden on pensioners like myself I have lived in my home for over 30 years, contributing to the community and faithfully paying all rates and taxes
But now, in my retirement years, I find myself struggling to keep up with the ever-rising costs of basic municipal services The increases linked to property values are simply unaffordable on a fixed pension income The value of my home increased exponentially over the last few years, as was the case for all home owners in Cape Town, forcing me into a bracket where my municipal bill will increase by nearly 20% It feels as though those of us who have spent our lives building this city are now being punished for staying in the homes we worked so hard to pay off There seems to be little consideration for pensioners who, without any means to increase their income, are being squeezed beyond their limits I urge the municipality to review these tariff hikes and consider relief measures for senior citizens Our dignity and ability to live securely in our own homes should not be eroded by the very city we helped shape JO ROBERTS, Brackenfell
DES REE RORKE@NOVUSMED A CO ZA
ie internasionaal
Dbekroonde botanis Leon Kluge se Between two Worlds is meer as net ’n tuinontwerp
Dis ’n multi-sensoriese verbeeldingsreis amper magies van aard - ’n tentoonstelling van die tropiese planteryk in al sy skoonheid
Met beligting, klank en selfs reuk voer die uitstalling jou mee na ’n wortelboomwoud (mangrove) wat wakker word en weer gaan slaap Van ’n mistige oggend met waterstrome en sonsopkoms met vrolike voëlgesang tot ’n helder maanlignag waar krieke musiek maak
Besoekers van oor die stad heen het die afgelope naweek na Hazendal-wynlangoed gestroom om dié buitengewone tentoonstelling te kom ervaar - ’n eerste in Suid-Afrika
Dié tuin was verlede jaar Suid-Afrika se inskrywing by die wêreld se grootste tropiese blommeskou in Singapoer waar dit ’n goue medalje en twee toekennings - Beste op Skou, en Beste Beligting - ingeryg het Kluge, ’n landskapkunstenaar wat bekend is vir gewaagde skeppings wat die grense van tuinontwerp verskuif, het ook verlede jaar twee toekennings by die Chelsea-blommeskou in Londen verwerf
Met 4 500 plante van 200 soorte is deurdagte vakmanskap aan die dag gelê met Between two Worlds
“In Singapoer het dit ons drie weke geneem om op te rig,” sê hy “Vir die fokusstuk het ons bloekomboomtakke gebruik om die mangrovewortels wat in die water in groei uit te beeld, omring met inheemse plantsoorte Die agtergrondklanke van voël- en dierelewe is in Skukuza in die Kruger-wildtuin opgeneem en die groot bloekomboomtakke van ’n boom wat by Hazendal omgeval het, is gebruik
“Daar is varings, orgideë, vyebome, en ’n inheemse mangoboom Die idee met die tema was om ’n fantasiewêreld te skep met die speling van kleur en klank Om die tydstip tussen twee wêrelde vas te vang, net voor jy aan die slaap raak en wanneer jy begin droom, daai oomblik wanneer realiteit en fantasie saamsmelt,” vertel hy aan TygerBurger
“Aspekte soos die vuurvliegies gee dan ook die gevoel van ’n feëland, ’n woud wat slaap en wakker word om te herinner aan ’n tyd waarin ons in harmonie met die natuur saamgelewe het ”
Alhoewel Kluge al agt soortgelyke ontwerpe in galerye oor die wêreld heen uitgestal het, was dit ’n eerste vir Suid-Afrika
“In Singapoer het een miljoen mense oor 10 dae verby die Die