RECORD FOR MARIMBA JAM
In a bold display of unity,rhythm and youthful joy 1178 marimba players from across South Africa and Zimbabwe came together at GrandWest to conquer the Guinness World RecordsTM Title for the Largest Marimba Ensemble in the World The event brought together players aged eight to 62,from over 70 schools and institutions,representing every province in South Africa and two schools from Zimbabwe Read more on page 8
DESIRÉERORKE
DES REE RORKE@TYGERBURGER.CO ZA
eartbreak swept across social media over the weekend as hundreds of tributes poured in for the four teenagers who tragically lost their lives in a devastating accident in Brackenfell on Saturday evening
TWO SURVIVING TEENAGERS REMAIN IN A CRITICAL CONDITION IN HOSPITAL
Three boys and a girl were killed when their vehicle crashed into a tree and burst into flames on Cecil Morgan Drive in the direction of Kuils River at around 18:00
Paramedic Kobus Kotze, who was on the scene, said the driver and front passenger of the white BMW died on impact, while the four passengers in the back were rescued from the burning vehicle by passing motorists who stopped to help
"Two patients rescued from the burning car died on the scene, while the other two sustained serious injuries They were treated and stabilised on scene before being transported to nearby hospitals," said Kotze
Daniel Jansen van Rensburg (19), and Perth Eksteen (17) both lived in Brackenfell and were learners at Fairmont High School in Durbanville Adrian le Roux (16), also from Brackenfell, was a learner at Monument Park High School in Kraaifontein, and Kiara-Joy Daniels (16) was homeschooled in Kuils River
TOPAGE4
DESIRÉERORKE
DESIREE RORKE@TYGERBURGER CO ZA
Apolice investigation into the senseless murder of a woman who had stopped on the side of the road on the R300 is ongoing.
The 41-year-old mother of three had reportedly stopped along the road to change a flat tyre when she was shot dead last Saturday night
As she finished up at around 20:20 she was shot dead in her car
Police officers who attended the scene found her slumped over the steering wheel with a gunshot wound to the neck
"The victim was declared dead on the scene by the paramedics," Sgt Wesley Twigg, provincial police spokesperson, related "The motive for the attack is being investigated No personal belongings were taken The suspects fled the scene and have yet to be arrested "
This latest incident on the notoriously dangerous highway has heightened concerns over an ongoing safety-andsecurity crisis on Cape Town’s roadways
Transport and crime data reveal that the R300/N2 corridor has become a hotspot for violent crime such as stone throwing, robberies and shootings, despite its importance as a primary route to the
airport The incident has sparked renewed urgency for immediate security upgrades on what many consider Cape Town’s most dangerous roads
In another case, on Sunday 13 July, a woman was injured when her vehicle was hit by a concrete block on the stretch of the N2 highway known as the "Hell Run"
The incident occurred on Sunday 13 July, just before the Borcherd's Quarry Road turn-off, at Nyanga A female passenger was injured when the block was thrown at the moving vehicle, striking the passenger side She and her husband were en route from Somerset West to Cape Town International Airport when the attack occurred
In a statement to the media Mayco member for safety and security in the City, JP Smith, said a dedicated deployment of new metro police officers come September will enhance safety along this critical N2 highway route
. Anyone with any information about the abovementioned murder can contact Crime Stop on 08600 10111 or use the mobile application MySAPS anonymously
Parents and caregivers wishing to apply for school transfers for the 2026 academic year will be able to do so until Monday 18 August
This application period opened on Monday 4 August and applies to learners currently enrolled in Grades 2 to 7 and Grades 9 to 12 Applications can be submitted online via the Western Cape Education Department (WCED) website
DOCUMENTS
Provincial education department spokesperson, Bronagh Hammond, said transfer applications can also be submitted directly at the school the learner is seeking to transfer to, or at the relevant district office
Parents applying will need the following supporting documents:
The learner’s most recent school report;
A copy of their ID, birth certificate, passport, study permit, proof of application for documentation, or a sworn police affidavit; and Proof of address or a police affidavit
Parents who have not used the online admissions system before must first register on the platform Once registered, they can proceed with the application
Video tutorials and step-by-step guides are available to assist on the WCED admissions website
Take note that schools can only capture applications for their own institution, but the online system can capture applications for multiple schools
Parents or caregivers must fill out the WCED application form, which can also be downloaded from the website Applications and supporting documents may be handed in at schools, or parents can enquire with the school about submission via e-mail (on the WCED form only)
GRADER,1AND8APPLICATIONS
Schools are currently finalising placements for Grades R, 1 and 8 by confirming placements for children on their waiting lists This process is ongoing
Parents who have not yet applied for these grades for the 2026 school year are urged to contact their district office as soon as possible Although the online portal is closed for late applications, support is available via the department’s call centre
. Contact the WCED call centre on 0861 819 919 Visit https://wcedonline westerncape.gov za/admissions for more information.
As the City of Cape Town's eBill deadline approaches, residents are urged to send their account numbers and contact details to the City sooner rather than later
The looming 31 December deadline marks a major shift in the City's billing system, from traditional postal deliveries to a fully digital platform From this date onwards all municipal accounts will be sent exclusively via email, ensuring quicker, more efficient communication with residents In a statement to the media Mayco member for Finance Siseko Mbandezi today said the City is on a mission to reduce the number of accounts, both residential and commercial, which are printed and sent via the South African Postal Service "All residents need to do is send an email or SMS with both their account number and email address to request an emailed account before 31 December
2025," he said "It's quick and easy, and residents can enjoy the convenience of their account being sent directly to their inbox
“And if residents don't have an email address there's no need to worry The City will ensure that all account holders with no email access will still receive their account They, or a loved one, are advised to contact the City's Call Centre so we can assist them " Mbandezi said more than 475 000 Capetonians had already made the move to eBilling . For emailed bills simply send an email with your account number and email address to Revenue.Eservices@capetown.gov.za or an SMS to 31223. Customers without email accounts are requested to contact the City's Call Centre at 0860 103 089 or visit its nearest Customer Interaction Centre
DESIREE RORKE@TYGERBURGER.CO ZA
In ‘n nuwe poging om stedelike wetteloosheid die hoof te bied, gaan 35 nuwe metropolisiebeamptes vanaf September in Subraad 2 ontplooi word as deel van die Stad Kaapstad se R40 miljard-infrastruktuurprogram
Die ontplooing, n sleutelbelegging om die agterstand in munisipale- en verkeerspolisiëring in te haal, sal toegewyde buurtpolisiëring verskaf binne elk van die sewe wyke in Brackenfell en Kraaifontein - dus vyf beamptes vir elke wyk
Die nuwe beamptes sal volgens JP Smith, die Stad se burgemeesterskomiteelid vir veiligheid, fokus op probleemkwessies binne die spesifieke wyk Oor die hele stad heen sal daar 700 beamptes ontplooi word Saam met Smith het Geordin Hill-Lewis, Kaapstadse burgemeenster, onlangs die Stad se opleidingskollege besoek waar die kadette tans die finale fase van hul opleiding voltooi
"Ons is op koers om n historiese eerste in Kaapstad te lewer Die beamptes sal unieke uitdagings soos probleemgeboue en verkeersoortredings in hul onderskeie buurte kan takel, en ook die inwoners daar leer ken Hierdie soort persoonlike polisiëring, waar verhoudings en vertroue gebou word, kan slegs tot meer positiewe uitkomste lei," het Hill-Lewis ná die besoek gesê “Buiten toegewyde buurtpolisiëring in elke wyk, sal ons nuwe ontplooiing ook begeleidingsdienste insluit vir diensleweringspanne in die voorste linie
Counterfeit Lego games worth R1,5 million were confiscated earlier this week during a search operation by the police at a premises in Darwin Park industrial area outside Durbanville
According to Capt Frederick van Wyk, spokesperson for the provincial police, members of Western Cape Provincial Counterfeit and Illicit Goods Policing Team, as well as members of Essential Infrastructure Task Team and Directorate for Priority Crime Investigation, executed
The Greater Tygerberg Partnership is inviting interested businesses in Bellville and the greater northern suburbs to apply for the 2025 level-Up Programme
This is an eight-week enterprisedevelopment journey from Thursday 14 August to Tuesday 14 October designed to help sustainability-focused businesses unlock new growth opportunities and prepare to exhibit at one of the region’s biggest business events
Sessions, which are hybrid, virtual or in-person, are free of charge to SMMEs that are at least two years old, based in or serving the northern suburbs, contributing to local sustainability
BUSINESSESBENEFITFROM:
. weekly training sessions with expert speakers; . personalised mentorship and pitch coaching; . exposure to buyers, funders and decision makers; . be selected as one of the Top 10 showcase businesses at the Bellville Business Expo on 28-29 October
Applications close on Friday 15 August Apply at www surveymonkey com/r/ XFDSMPN
. For more info or application support contact Nasmera Buckus at Nasmera.Buckus@gtp org. za or on 021 823 6713.
The two surviving teenagers, whose names were not made public, are both learners at Meridian Pinehurst High School in Durbanville They remain in a critical condition in hospital
With deep empathy and sorrow, Fairmont High School shared a heartfelt tribute on Sunday to Jansen van Rensburg and Eksteen, remembering the two young men as truly unforgettable and cherished members of their school community
"It is with deeply broken hearts that we acknowledge the passing of two young members of our Fairmont family We are incredibly saddened by the loss of Perth Eksteen, a vibrant and unforgettable Grade 12 student Perth was full of energy, confidence, and spirit," it was written
"We also honour the memory of Daniel Jansen van Rensburg, a past pupil who continued to proudly represent Fairmont on the rugby field, after transitioning to homeschooling Daniel’s passion for the sport and his quiet determination made him a valued teammate and friend " Mother of Kiara-Joy, Sonja JennikerFrantz, shared her grieve on Monday morning writing on her Facebook page: "I woke up I really thought I was dreaming I keep seeing you, I keep seeing you Kiara-Joy you can't be gone What am I going to do my Preacher my life of Joy my heart has not prepared for this
I can't understand I am trying to figure this out I can't believe it's happened, can I wake up from a bad dream "
The management, staff and learners at Monument High School on Monday morning commiserated with Adrian's loved ones in a memorial service at the school attended by his parents
LOCALCOMMUNITIESSHAREGRIEVE
In a post on social media, community member Michelle Gross shared her condolences writing: "My sincerest condolences to all the families, friends and loved ones who have lost someone dear in this accident
“May you all take a lot of strength from the school community and know that you are in our thoughts "
Offering her heartfelt sympathy Deidre Mason wrote: "Such a tragedy! Our children who knew these boys are deeply affected Sincere sympathy to the parents and families affected " Provincial police spokesperson Capt FC van Wyk says a case of culpable homicide was registered at Brackenfell Police Station where the circumstances surrounding this accident are under investigation All authorities were on the crash site and the road remained closed in both directions until about 22:30 . Anyone with information about this accident is kindly requested to contact Crime Stop at 08600 10111 or via the MySAPS App.
DESIREE RORKE@TYGERBURGER CO ZA
In a last-ditch attempt to turn things around at the beleaguered KSE Kraaifontein Tehuis in Scottsville, the Western Cape Department of Social Development (DSD) has decided to bring in an independent auditor to assist the home for the elderly.
This followed a meeting between its current board and department officials, where a decision was taken to offer the services of expert Dr Louw Pieterse, who will serve as administrator and mentor
Heading the Institute for Contemporary Research Africa, he has a wealth of experience and knowledge in assisting residential facilities for the elderly with financial-management and governance issues
“While the department provides funding to residential facilities these are owned and managed by NGOs, so the department cannot take their management over,”
Western Cape Minister of Social Development Jaco Londt said after the meeting
“So one of Pieterse’s first tasks will be to help the board call an annual general meeting so a new board can be elected as per the constitution of the facility
“The department has received numerous complaints over the years about KSE Kraaifontein Tehuis Every time there has been a complaint lodged DSD officials have followed-
up to investigate and made recommendations for issues to be addressed Unfortunately the situation remains unstable, with norms and standards not being upheld ”
The death of 10 elderly people at the home over three weeks in May last year from a stomach virus led was preceded by allegations of neglect and a shortage of food made to the department
KSE Kraaifontein Tehuis
is a non-profit organisation that is independently run and receives a government subsidy of R3 541 for each resident who receives a Sassa pension In terms of legislation up to 90% of a resident’s Sassa pension may also be deducted for care
At the time last year there were approximately 136 residents in the home
Speaking to TygerBurger after the deaths last year, residents alleged that vulnerable elderly people were often neglected
In a letter to the department a volunteer at the home alleged that very little and unsavoury food were served to residents at the home, this while employees took food donations for the elderly from Woolworths home
She also reported incidents where weak elderly people are left dirty with no assistance in cleaning themselves
She told the department she at times has had to intervene to get
g made about the quality of service and care there were denied by the home’s management
Londt added that while the department cannot get involved in the management of nongovernmental facilities the department can provide guidance and support
He said on Friday: “The priority is the well-being of the elderly residents, who deserve competent leadership that will step-up and do what is needed to turn things around
“I would like to thank the
board for accepting Dr Pieterse’s assistance If we can bring stability back to this facility there will be an improvement in services for the residents who call it home They deserve to be cared for with dignity and the utmost respect We are hopeful Dr Pieterse can help them move in this direction and there is a willingness from all parties involved to do what is best for the residents
“The department encourages the
public to inform us of any alleged abuse or neglect of residents at any facility for the elderly so we may investigate, and we also wish to caution against sharing unverified or false allegations, as has sometimes been the case with KSE Kraaifontein Tehuis
The department will give the administrator the opportunity to do his job by enforcing the rules and regulations of the facility as set by its Constitution and the Older Person’s Act ”
KAILINDANIELS
KAILIN DANIELS@NOVUSMEDIA CO ZA
Environmental activist and founder of Save a Fishie (SAFi), Zoë Prinsloo, has officially launched her debut children’s book, The Fishie That Got Saved a heartwarming tale that captures the humble beginnings of a movement that has since made waves in ocean conservation Zoë, well known for her tireless beach cleanups and educational outreach, says the inspiration for the book stems from a story she’s been telling at cleanups for years “I’ve always loved sharing the story about SAFi about how I found a little fish trapped in a plastic packet when I was 15 It was a small act of kindness that sparked something much bigger People, especially kids, are always captivated by this moment, so it felt right to put it into a book ”
The Fishie That Got Saved
g storybook, Zoë says the book is for anyone who wants to
so there’s lots to look forward to ”
ESMÉERASMUS
Die koor van die Laerskool Durbanville het vanjaar vir die eerste keer in nege jaar weer die kroon as beste laerskoolkoor in die prestige-afdeling van die gesogte ATKV Applouskoorkompetisie huis toe gebring Die kompetisie, vanjaar die 48ste, het verlede Donderdagaand by Unisa in Pretoria plaasgevind en al drie topkore in die prestigeafdeling is van Durbanvilleomgewing ’n Indrukwekkende 292 kore met meer as 20 000 hoër- en
laerskoolleerders het vanjaar ingeskryf
Die Durbies-koor het sedert 1999, toe Anne-Marie Dippenaar as koorleier by die skool begin het, al 22 jaar na die nasionale eindstryd vir prestige kore deurgedring Die koor het al sewe keer gewen en was baie kere onder die top-drie Die koor se 93,19% (cum laude) het hom vanjaar die eerste plek besorg Die koor het ook die toekenning gewen vir die beste uitvoering van die voorgeskrewe lied, "Die mannetjie", gekomponeer deur
Anton Esterhuyse
"Vanjaar se wen is baie spesiaal, want ons het in 2016 laas die kompetisie gewen," sê Dippenaar
"As ons in 'n kompetisie sing, is die mikpunt nooit om te wen nie Ons wil mooi musiek maak en mense se harte raak Wat punte betref, mik ons vir bo 90% (cum laude), want dit word beskou as van internasionale standaard," sê sy “Wat vanjaar anders maak, is dat dit ons nuwe begeleier, Petrus Kruger, se eerste eindstryd was Ons vorige begeleidster, Riana Knoblauch, het verlede jaar na 21 jaar uitgetree Ons koor oefen drie ure per week en hulle werk hard om musiek te leer, suiwer te sing en as ‘n eenheid te fokus Hulle leer ook dissipline en uithouvermoë," sê Dippenaar
Die koor het ook voorverlede
Saterdag aan die Stellenboscheisteddfod se pryswennerskonsert in die Endlersaal deelgeneem en is as die beste senior koor in die laerskoolafdeling aangewys
Die koor het die toekenning vir beste uitvoering van ’n SuidAfrikaanse komponis (laer- tot hoërskole-afdeling) opgeraap
Die Laerskool Gene Louw se senior koor, wat die kompetisie
verlede jaar vir die 13de keer in 23 jaar gewen het, was met 93,05% (cum laude) met enkele persentasiepunte in die tweede plek Die Laerskool Gene Louw het tot en met verlede jaar die kompetisie oorheers met vyf agtereenvolgende oorwinnings, volgens die koorleier, Marietjie Martinson Die koor word deur Elzeth Germishuys begelei
Die Laerskool Eversdal was vanjaar derde met 90,15% (cum laude) en het die toekenning ontvang vir beste uitvoering van 'n Afrikaanse werk Dié drie skole ding al vir jare mee om die eerste drie plekke in die kompetisie, die oudste skoolkoorkompetisie in die land
Altesame vier van die vyf prestige-kore in die eindstryd is van die Wes-Kaap en al vier het cum laude behaal Die koor van die Laerskool Table View was vierde met 90,13% en het ook die toekenning ontvang vir beste uitvoering van 'n Afrika-lied Die koor van die Laerskool Totius in Bellville was tweede in die meriete-afdeling vir Afrikaanse laerskoolkore met 87,46% Die meisieskoor van die Hoërskool Stellenberg, onder leiding van André van der Merwe, is Saterdagaand in die eindstryd vir prestigehoërskoolkore met 93,95% as die wenner in die afdeling vir meisieskore aangewys
DESIREE RORKE@TYGERBURGER CO ZA
Operation Basadi, a high-impact, female-led crime prevention initiative, launched at Kraaifontein Police Station on Friday, resulted in multiple arrests, firearm seizures, vehicle checks, and community outreach operations across the area.
Led by Brig Zukiswa Matumbu, the operation brought together female officers from Kraaifontein police, neighbouring police stations and members from the Western Cape provincial police head office The day began with a formal parade and opening prayer by the Spiritual Crime Prevention team, followed by a briefing outlining the operational goals
The initiative kicked off with a large-scale school safety operation at Bloekombos High School where 887 learner bags and 21 vehicles were searched as students entered the school premises During the operation, a 45-year-old woman was arrested for driving under the influence and later released on a warning
In a significant find, members searched a silver Kia Sportage and discovered a Norinco 7 62 calibre rifle and eight rounds of ammunition concealed in the spare wheel compartment The firearm was confiscated and submitted as evidence
Simultaneously, a vehicle check point around the school area resulted in 47 vehicles
being inspected A separate roadblock on Frans Conradie Road, conducted in collaboration with law enforcement, saw 1 300 vehicles screened, 222 searched, and traffic fines totaling R22 500 issued for various offences, including unlicensed driving
COMMUNITYSERVED
Further community-focused operations included a mini community service centre set up at Shoprite block centre, where residents could access police services such as document certification and information on domestic and gender-based violence Approximately 1 750 pamphlets were distributed to the public
Police also served 11 protection orders related to domestic violence cases and conducted second-hand goods inspections with the law enforcement metal unit One illegal scrap dealer in Klipbok Street, Scottsdene, led to the arrest of a 25-year-old man for possession of stolen municipal property and operating without a second-hand goods dealer registration
"Upon inspection at the illegal scrap dealer the officer and members found a wheelie bin valued at approximately R600 as well as two steel municipality wheelie bin wheels valued at R500 that were the property of the City of Cape Town," says a police spokesperson In Wallacedene’s Takudi and Hani Streets, known crime
hotspots, officers conducted a walkabout with Community in Blue patrols During this time, Western Cape Flying Squad officers received an alert for a White Foton taxi linked to a Midrand fraud case from April The 33-year-old driver was arrested for possession of a stolen vehicle
Brig Matumbu praised the officers’ dedication and encouraged the community to continue supporting police officers in their fight against crime “This operation demonstrates our ongoing commitment to making our communities safer,” she said “We need every citizen to stand with us in eradicating criminal activity ”
JO FOURIE@NOVUSMEDIA CO ZA
In a vibrant showcase of rhythm, unity and cultural pride, South Africa has officially smashed the Guinness World Record™ for the Largest Marimba Ensemble in the world
A total of 1 178 marimba players from across South Africa and Zimbabwe gathered at GrandWest Casino and Entertainment World on Sunday 3 August to perform a 10-minute medley of Waka Waka and Jerusalema – more than doubling the previous record of 505 held by Guatemala
The event was a collaboration between Cape Town-based non-profit Marimba Jam, and GrandWest, who sponsored the full cost of the production An official adjudicator from Guinness World Records flew in from London to verify the count and authenticate the attempt
For Marimba Jam founder Kiara Ramklass, this was more than just
a record attempt – it was a powerful statement about South Africa’s potential
“Our marimbas are tuned in C major –you can’t help but feel happy when you hear them,” she said
“But this is about more than music It’s about crossing socio-economic divides We had private schools, township schools, rural schools – all on one stage It’s a loud, joyful message of ubuntu ”
Ramklass has spent the past decade championing marimba music as a tool for empowerment and unity In 2018, she led 241 girls in an unofficial Women’s Day attempt, but lacked the
resources to make it official Now, with GrandWest backing the event, her dream has finally become reality
Players ranged in age from 8 to 62, and came from over 70 schools and institutions, representing every province in South Africa and two schools from Zimbabwe Some teams travelled thousands of kilometres one group flew in from KwaZulu-Natal right after their matric dance, while others loaded their instruments onto trucks from Durban and Johannesburg
Despite only meeting on the day of the performance, the ensemble performed flawlessly
“It was electric,” said GrandWest General Manager Mervyn Naidoo
“The performers had only just met, yet played in perfect harmony It was an unforgettable moment in South African music history ”
From early morning marimba demos and djembe drumming workshops to VR
booths and live art installations in the Market Hall, the event buzzed with energy After the official announcement, the celebration continued with a performance from South African band Goodluck, DJs and emcee Carl Wastie
Every participant received a Guinness World Records medallion handed out by Western Cape Premier Alan Winde and MEC for Cultural Affairs and Sport, Ricardo Mackenzie Naidoo added: “When people come together with a shared purpose, incredible things happen This record belongs to every person who showed up and gave it their all ”
Although different numbers were circulated by various sources, GrandWest confirmed the official figure as 1 178 participants – now etched in the Guinness World RecordsTM books as a proud South African achievement
Marlene le Roux, CEO of Artscape and an outspoken advocate for women living with disabilities, has been named ambassador for #DoekWithADifference - a project of Pink Trees for Pauline (PTFP) who formed a collaboration with the Cancer Alliance, a collective group of cancer control nonprofit organisations recently Le Roux's ambassadorship will officially be launched at the Artscape Women’s Day Festival, that honours women’s resilience, creativity and strength
“Traditional head wraps (iDhuku) have long been associated with that of African cultures and worn for cultural, religious or fashion reasons The style of how it’s worn around the head differs from culture to culture We are looking forward to seeing all women from all cultures living in South Africa embrace this initiative which celebrates their confidence and strength,” said Le Roux
This joint initiative between PTFP and Cancer Alliance will bring the powerful symbolism of the "doek" or
headwrap to communities across South Africa celebrating cultural pride while amplifying a shared call for health equity South Africa’s rich cultural fabric is interwoven with traditions such as the wearing of "doeke" (headwraps) a practice that reflects dignity, identity and heritage This campaign embraces that symbolism to raise awareness of the urgent need to eliminate cervical cancer, a disease that is entirely preventable yet still claims the lives of at least 16 women every day in South Africa one every 67 minutes, said Salomé Meyer, director of the Cancer Alliance
As part of this collaboration a percentage of proceeds from #DoekWithADifference sales will support the Cancer Alliance’s Cervical Cancer Elimination Programme, contributing directly to advocacy, education and prevention efforts
This campaign aims to inspire conversation, spark community action and unite women across all backgrounds in the fight against cervical cancer
Die Con Spirito Filharmoniese Vereniging bied op Saterdag 16 Augustus om 19:30 'n uitvoering, Opera en Lig, by die NG kerk Uitsig in Ridgeworth, Bellville aan.
Die uitvoering is geskik vir die hele familie en fokus op opera- en ligter musiek. Die AfriArts-koor, wat onlangs die opera Il Trovatore saam met die Kaapstadse Filharmoniese Orkes in die Kaapstad-stadsaal uitgevoer het, sal bydra tot ’n aand van koor-, solo- en orkesmusiek.
Die soliste Beverley Chiat Violina Anguelov Sipho Fubesi, en Conroy Scott, sal 'n verskeidenheid verhoog-gunstelinge uitvoer - insluitend die "Rigo-
letto-kwartet, "Fisherman’s Duet", "Nessun Dorma", "Vilja", "I Could Have Danced All Night" en "The Impossible Dream".
Kom geniet 'n aand van gehaltemusiek Kaartjies is goedkoper vir kinders om hulle aan te moedig om 'n belangstelling in alle genres van musiek te ontwikkel. Kaartjies kos R220 by Webtickets.
Kaartjies is ook beskikbaar by Allmusic in Brackenfell. Koop 10 kaartjies en kry een gratis. Kaartjies vir pensioenarisse en studente kos R180 en R140 vir leerders.
. Skakel 021 981 5551 of conspiritochoircpt@ gmail.com vir meer inligting.
The Boston ChoirFest returns for a third edition on Sunday 10 August at 16:00, hosted at the Hugo Lambrechts Auditorium in Parow
This year’s event promises an uplifting afternoon of music featuring four local choirs, an international guest ensemble, and a talented musical duo Celebrating its 10th anniversary, the Tygerberg High School Boys’ Choir—nicknamed the Tygerberg Mafia—brings award-winning energy under the leadership of baritone Barend van der Westhuizen.
The choir has earned multiple medals at eisteddfods and won their category at the ATKV Applous Competition for three consecutive years.
Also performing is the Heavenly Sound Youth Choir, founded in 2016 in Philippi East and directed
Local pride will be on display with the Totius Primary School Senior Choir, which, under Jade Paige and Hannelie van Niekerk, reached the final round of the 2025 ATKV Applous Competition for the first time
International guests the Boston City Singers, from Massachusetts, USA, bring a global perspective on their 2025 Global Voices Tour
Anew South African short film Spoiled has premiered at a high-level workshop in Cape Town this week This marine-focused event unpacked the findings of the Wildtrust driven project highlighting the environmental, social and economic risks of offshore oil and gas in South Africa.
The film carries an urgent call to protect South Africa’s rich and irreplaceable marine heritage from the growing threat of offshore oil and gas exploration It weaves together the stories of coastal communities, activists, scientists, and traditional fishers who are standing up to one of the greatest environmental and social threats facing the country’s oceans today
Presented by non-profit organisations Wildtrust and The Green Connection, and produced by Love Africa Marketing, the film takes viewers along the rugged coastline of the Northern Cape and the culturally rich Wild Coast of the Eastern Cape
At the heart of the film lies a simple truth: around 90% of South Africa’s oceans are at risk
The film uncovers the cracks in the system that allow international oil and gas giants to exploit these waters, including flawed Environmental Impact Assessments (EIAs), a lack of meaningful public consultation, and the leasing of the ocean without community consent
“There’s not enough effort being made to explain to people what the advantages and disadvantages of, or the impact of offshore oil and gas will be on coastal community livelihoods and on the ocean,” says Neville van Rooy, community outreach coordinator for The Green Connection "All they usually do, is paint a beautiful picture by telling people about jobs, which they know will get peopleespecially when they hear it from government officials ”
Featuring deeply personal interviews with local fishers, activists, youth and community leaders, the film explores themes of justice, environmental degradation, and resistance “It’s almost as though my heart has been called to it That is why I can say with pride that I love the ocean and will do anything in my power to protect it,” says Chanel Jaar, who started the Environmental Traits Youth Organisation in Port Nolloth - a small town along the coastline of the Northern Cape
Their testimonies paint a picture of what is at stake: biodiversity, food security, coastal heritage, and ultimately the survival of future generations
“Look at Mexico, for five years now they’ve been struggling to get that oil spill cleaned That community is suffering Look at Nigeria; their fishermen are suffering Their boats are lying high and dry, never touching the water because there’s no more water, it's oil,” adds Walter Steenkamp, chair of the Fishing Co-operative for Aukotowa Fishers in Port Nolloth
“However, this isn’t just a story of destruction,” says Lauren van Nijkerk, Wildtrust campaign s director “It’s a story of hope Spoiled is a tribute to the everyday heroes who are defending their livelihoods, their heritage and the sea itself ”
The film goes a step further by encouraging greater public involvement in pushing back on the offshore oil and gas application processes As part of its call to action, viewers are directed to an interactive platform available at www stopthespoil co za, where several active offshore oil and gas applications - their status in process, public participation process information - across
p g platform, giving the public an opportunity to have a ‘one-stopshop’ to make informed decisions and get involved in stakeholder consultation that ensures every South African has a say in how our oceans are utilised ”
The launch of the film comes at a critical time for South Africa, as environmental and climate justice organisations wait in anticipation for the release of our country’s Integrated Energy Plan (IEP) The IEP is a national roadmap that aims to shape how South Africa produces, distributes, and consumes energy in the coming decades It seeks to balance the country’s energy needs with environmental sustainability, economic growth, and social justice “Operation Pakhisa, which means ‘hurry up’, was South Africa’s idea of pushing for a Blue Economy, but the system is just wrong because it assumes that the ocean is just there to exploit for economic gain,” says van Rooy
“It doesn’t take into account
‘Spoiled’short film highlights ocean threats.
the inherent value that an ocean would have in terms of ecosystem services, in terms of heritage, culture and that such an ocean feeds thousands of families around the coast of South Africa ”
Van Rooy adds that “all alternative energy solutions have their pros and cons, and we need to make sure that people are not worse off when the Integrated Energy Plan is implemented ”
In February 2023, Wildtrust unveiled a groundbreaking oil spill model for South Africa, a first-of-its-kind aimed at showing the real-world risks of offshore oil operations, using a proposed ultra-deep drill site off Durban, KZN Developed with partners from the University of Cape Town, Nelson Mandela University, and international experts in ocean modelling, the model reveals that shoreline contamination could occur in as little as three days along the east coast The fast-flowing Agulhas
Current would transport oil large distances, hindering predictions of where oil would reach the shoreline, complicating clean-up efforts The model indicates that a blow-out spill on the East coast could result in the need for beach clean-up operations as far away as the West coast The minimum time for oil to shoreline impact could be as little as three days for the East coast of South Africa, and within about 10 days for the South coast and 30 days for the West coast The results highlight what civil society has long feared, the risks of oil and gas exploration in South African waters are not theoretical, but rather they are imminent and potentially catastrophic “If we remain complacent, we risk losing not only our coastline, but our ability to shape a future that values life over profit,” adds Jaar
. Spoiled is available to watch online: https://www youtube com/ watch?v=7IHo RPkl2M
..IFWE,ASWOMEN,CANNO LONGERBETRUSTEDTOCARE FOROURCHILDREN,WHAT HOPEISTHEREFORTHE FUTUREOFOURSOCIETY?
11-year-old son
A Johannesburg mother was arrested after a video was circulated on social media showing her allegedly encouraging her son to smoke drugs
I am in no position to judge any of these women; I don't think any of us is They, like everyone else, will have receive their just deserts on judgement day, when we all leave this earth
But if we, as women, can no longer be trusted to care for our children what hope is there for the future of our society? What possible crime could these children have committed that was so heinous that they needed to be killed?
A four-year-old, who should be nurtured and loved, now knows a life of drugs
This is not what those brave women marched for when they went to the Union Buildings in 1956
I'm sure they are crying wherever they may be beyond the grave, speaking to us from eternity, from history, urging us to do better, to honour their legacy with courage, unity and integrity
This may be precisely what we need; the wise words and voices of our grandmothers, mothers, aunts speaking to us
Perhaps in our pursuit of freedom and independence as young women we've stopped listening, stopped listening to the wisdom of those who came before us, to the hard-won lessons of struggle
As we live and walk through each day of this month may we take one another s hands again
Too often, we women are quick to cast aspersions, pass judgement, throw insults and tear one another down, and forget the strength we have when we stand together
Let's make news headlines, but for the right reasons, lift one another up, break barriers, lead with grace and stand united -KAYLYNNEBANTOM
Dit is onverstaanbaar dat die bestuur van Jack Mullerpark so min konstruksie-kennis het dat hulle al 10 jaar sukkel om die waterprobleem by die noordpaadjie op te los Vir enige probleem behandel jy nie die gevolge nie, maar die oorsaak Baie duisende werksure en rande is oor die jare gespandeer om die paadjie te "herstel", terwyl die probleem lê by die verstopte waterafvoerpype wat die water deur dreine moet weglei Hulle vererger dit selfs deur syferwater wat van die N1-kant af vloei, na die pa-
adjie toe te herlei, alhoewel water altyd afwaarts loop
In hulle jongste, langdurige poging, maak hulle weer die paadjie reg sonder om die wegvoerpype en dreine van onder af oop te maak (met bv 'n toiletpypontstopper)
Met al die geld wat hulle sover gemors het, kon hulle al die paadjie en die hele stelsel vervang het met groter pype Hulle kon ook die breë wespaadjies gesement het, want dit bly ongelyke koffieklip, terwyl die binnepaadjies (wat minder gebruik word) sement is WAARNEMER,BELLVILLE
Beide my eggenote en ek het minimale vastetermynbeleggings by dieselfde bank wat ons sedert 2017 opgebou het
Op die vervaldatum van ons beleggings - onderskeidelik in vroeg April en Mei vanjaar - het ons die kapitaalbedrae plus rentes vir n verdere vastetermyn van twaalf maande teen ` n sekere rentekoers per jaar herbelê
By ontvangs van ons beleggingsertifikate is vasgestel dat die jaarlikse rentebedrae, soos getoon op die beleggingsertikate oor slegs n tydperk van 364 dae bereken is Ons is steeds via e-poskommunikasie met die bank
besig om die foutiewe rentebedrae reggestel te kry
Verstommende redes vir die foutiewe berekeninge word voorgelê, maar dit is nie vir ons aanvaarbaar nie
Dis geringe verliese aan rentes wat betrokke is, maar die beginsel van die saak is dat foute gemaak is wat reggestel moet word Voorgaande is bedoel as waarskuwing aan beleggers om te verseker dat die rentebedrae op hul beleggings soos verstrek op hul beleggingsertifikate wel korrek bereken is Indien nie, besoek dringend die plaaslike tak van u bank
GERTBRAND,MELKBOSSTRAND
Ek wens ouers (ja, klem op ouers) wil leer bestuur Dit voel deesdae asof ek die meeste padvarke rondom skole teëkom Ouers wat nie weet kinders te voet kry voorkeur by 'n zebrastreep nie Nog minder weet hulle om nie op die zebrastreep, of die zigzag-strepe voor en ná dié padkruising vir voetgangers, te parkeer nie En 'n toegeeteken mense, dit
beteken nie sit voet in die hoek nie! Parkeer op rooi lyne, en huise rondom die skool se opritte Die lys gaan aan Het die samelewing regtig só ongeduldig en selfsugtig geraak? Herhaalde versoeke van die skool en dreigemente om die verkeersdepartement in te roep, help ook niksESTHER,DURBANVILLE
I'd like to compliment Likho a cashier at Checkers Hyper in Fairbridge Mall, Brackenfell I recently moved to Brackenfell from Zeekoevlei in the southern suburbs I felt very "homesick" not knowing the northern suburbs at all and missing my family Checkers Plumstead was my shop and then I went to Checkers in Fairbridge for the first time, feeling low I got to the till and this guy was so friendly making jokes and making me feel somewhat accepted into a "new" I left the shop feeling better than when I entered Every time I go to this Checkers I'd specifically look for him Saturday, at a family function, I was sharing this story with friends and family Today I once again got that joyous laughing and jokey interaction with Likho I would love for Checkers to acknowledge this young man He's not just a staff member or cashier or worker for him to make me a customer feel so uplifted and happy in a time I really needed it
He's going way over what's expected of him I told him today that he is an asset to the company I pray that God bless him abundantly and grant him success and a bright future in Jesus name MELISSALAW,BRACKENFELL
My comments on the 2050 Cape Town Long Term Plan (LTP) A "plan" it is not, a wish list at best
A plan contains details, such as projects by name and location, time frame, budget details
It is a document drawn up by someone with a low education level and certainly without project planning training and experience
It does not address one of the worst conditions that Cape Town’s commuting residents live under: the ever worsening traffic without any meaningful control in sight To think that a bit by bit improved rail system and cycling will substantially correct the current conditions is wishful thinking
Come 2050 and this administration will produce another such wish list unless meaningful serious thinking is applied now by well qualified, knowledgeable and experienced people Otherwise this whole "plan" is greenwashing at best PETERSMULIK,RUGBY
BRENDENRUITER
BRENDEN RU TER@NOVUSMEDIA CO ZA
Die skoolgemeenskap word op verskillende maniere geraak deur die voortslepende bendegeweld op die Kaapse Vlakte Skole het onlangs hul deure geopen vir die derde kwartaal te midde van 'n bendeoorlog wat fel woed TygerBurger het gaan kers opsteek by 'n onderwyskundige en voormalige skoolhoof in Kleinvlei, een van die gemeenskappe wat veral deur geweld geraak word en haar gepols oor die invloed wat die geweld op 'n skool het Net verlede week is 'n matrikulant aan die Hoêrskool Kleinvlei tien drieë van sy ouerhuis doodgeskiet Alison February was destyds hoof van die Laerskool Melton Daar het sy eerstehands ervaar hoe ontwrigtend geweld kan wees
SKOOLGEMEENSKAPLEEFINVREES
" n Skool is die hart van 'n gemeenskap en alles wat die gemeenskap raak, het 'n
“Bendegeweldis‘nkanker wat‘nheleskoolgemeenskapkan verteer.”
- Alison February
invloed op die skool," sê February Volgens haar word skole op verskeie maniere geraak, waarvan een die gevoel van vrees is "Wanneer iemand in die gemeenskap rondom die skool geskiet is, word die ouers van leerders angsbevange en stuur hulle dan nie hul kinders skool toe nie Dit is n menslike reaksie en 'n mens kan dit verstaan, maar die invloed wat dit op die leerder se akademiese prestasie het, is enorm Skole se kurrikulum is deesdae so gelaai dat dit moeilik is vir daardie kind om weer op te vang Opvangklasse moet saans en oor naweke aangebied word en watter ouer sal 'n kind oor 'n naweek of saans stuur
as hulle reeds in die week bang is?" vra February Sy sê die feit dat leerders agter raak, het 'n invloed op hul selfvertroue en sommige verlaat die skool "Dit is die begin van 'n bose kringloop, want skoolverlaters is geneig om by bendes aan te sluit," sê sy Afwesigheid is ook nie tot leerders beperk nie "Onderwysers begin ook met sieksertifikate vorendag te kom Dit is 'n Catch 22-situasie, want dit raak ook moeilik om onderwysers vir die skole te werf "
In baie gevalle is die sibbe van bendelede ook in die skole "Hulle begin ook later soos hul ouer sibbe optree en begin ander kinders aanval Bendegeweld is 'n kanker wat 'n hele skoolgemeenskap kan verteer, terwyl skole eintlik die gom moet wees wat gemeenskappe saamsnoer en die vertrekpunt moet wees van waar gemeenskappe hul omstandighede verander," sê sy Wat kan gedoen word om skole teen
BRENDENRUITER
BRENDEN RUITER@NOVUSMEDIA CO ZA
In die tweede afdeling van 'n reeks oor bendes gesels TygerBurger met ds Llewellyn MacMaster, die voorsitter van die Cape Crime Crisis Coalition (CCCC) oor die oorsake van bendegeweld en wat gedoen kan word om dit hok te slaan MacMaster sê die CCCC is diep bekommerd oor die aanhoudende toename in geweldsmisdaad, veral die patroon van groep- of massamoorde en bendeverwante skietvoorvalle in gemeenskappe soos Khayelitsha, Gugulethu, Bishop Lavis en Philippi en ander woonbuurte op die Kaapse Vlakte, maar ook in ander dele van die provinsie, sowel as in ander dele van die land "Hierdie is nie geïsoleerde voorvalle nie; dit is simptome van 'n dieper, stelselmatige krisis,” sê hy
ONDERLIGGENDEOORSAKE
Die volgende onderliggende oorsake word deur navorsing en gemeenskapsorganisasies uitgewys, wat nie onbekend aan die staat is nie Daar word gereeld verwys na die sogenaamde "whole of government, whole of society"benadering, wat aandui dat ons nie eng of simplisties na die komplekse uitdagings van geweldsmisdaad moet kyk nie
"Diepgaande en historiese sosio-ekonomiese ongelykhede soos werkloosheid, armoede en beperkte toegang tot onderwys en vaardigheidsontwikkeling dryf jongmense na misdaadnetwerke as 'n vorm van oorlewing
Die afwesigheid van en swak dienslewering deur die staat, soos 'n gebrek aan behoorlike behuising, infrastruktuur, gesondheid, jeugontwikkeling en polisiëring, skep 'n omgewing waarin misdaad floreer," sê hy
MORELEVERVAL
Volgens hom is die verval van morele waardes ook 'n bydraende faktor in die groeiende bendeprobleem "Gemeenskappe is onder druk, gesinne is verskeur en daar is 'n gebrek aan rolmodelle en
bendegeweld te beskerm? "Dit sal 'n spanpoging van verskillende vlakke van die samelewing verg, maar uiteindelik moet gemeenskappe weer eienaarskap van skole neem Hulle moet saamstaan om ten minste seker te maak dat kinders veilig is wanneer hulle skool toe kom of huis toe gaan Sonder gemeenskapsbetrokkenheid is ons kinders blootgestel aan die wrede werklikheid van bendes en moord en doodslag," sê sy
DIE HELE GEMEENSKAP MOET SAAMWERK OM
BENDEVERWANTE MISDAAD TE PAK
morele leiding vir die jeug
Die geskiedkundige en 'intergenerational' trauma loop baie diep in mense en gemeenskappe
Die morele vesel van ons samelewing is aan flarde “Bendes floreer waar korrupsie en onbetroubare wetstoepassing hulle beskerm Bendes werk binne georganiseerde misdaadnetwerke met internasionale bande, wat byna elke faset van ons samelewing infiltreer het, met die gevolg dat die sogenaamde 'criminal economy' uiters sterk gevestig is "Hierby dra die lae vervolgingsyfer en gebrek aan beskerming vir informante, fluitjieblasers en getuies by tot 'n gevoel van magteloosheid Mense het nie vertroue in die strafregstelsel nie
“Die onlangse opspraakwekkende onthullings deur die polisie se provinsiale kommissaris in KwaZulu Natal, het - te verstane en te verwagtedie kwik in die land geweldig laat styg Mense is moeg, gefrustreerd en kwaad oor die kultuur van strafloosheid en eis ingrypende stappe en transformasie van die hele stelsel," sê hy MacMaster sê die CCCC het verskeie voorstelle om die bendebedrywighede te bekamp
"Die polisie moet gefokusde, taktiese teenbende-optredes van stapel stuur met ondersteuning van nasionale eenhede en onafhanklike toesig
“'n Interdepartementele beraad van die polisie, provinsiale regering, munisipaliteite, burgerlike samelewing en geloofsinstellings moet belê word en veilige en anonieme meganismes moet in werking gestel word om die vrees van informante die hoof te bied
KOMMISSIEVANONDERSOEK
“'n Kommissie van ondersoek na bendes en georganiseerde misdaad moet in die mediumtermyn gestig word
“Die CCCC het reeds 'n maand gelede so 'n versoek gerig Dit
moet nie net op die Kaapse Vlakte en in die Wes-Kaap fokus nie, maar moet ook op ander dele van die land Die president self moet hierdie kommissie aanstel en met die nodige magte toerus, wat dan met duidelike aanbevelings kom
“Daar moet gekyk word waarom die goeie werk en aanbevelings van vorige kommissies van ondersoek nie ingestel is nie, wat tot die huidige skeptisisme oor sulke kommissies bygedra het
NASORG
"Daar moet investering wees in nasorgprogramme, vakleerlingskappe en gemeenskapsprojekte, wat jongmense aan hoop en vaardighede bind
“Plaaslike polisiekantore moet proaktief met gemeenskapsveiligheidsforums saamwerk en aanspreeklik wees teenoor die publiek Die skuif en naamsverandering van 'n polisiemag na 'n polisiediens moet hierdeur sterker beklemtoon en getoon word
“Groter konsultasie en insluiting van gemeenskappe by die aanstelling en evaluering van stasiebevelvoerders is ook broodnodig Meer speurders moet aangestel word, sodat ondersoeke tot skuldigbevinding en gevangenisstraf kan lei," sê hy MacMaster sê nie een organisasie kan n ommeswaai bewerkstellig nie
"Kerke, moskees en ander geloofsgemeenskappe, skole en gemeenskapsorganisasies moet morele waardes aktief herstel deur opvoeding, mentorskap en geestelike vorming Hierdie morele opbou kan nie weer alleen net in die hande van die staat gelaat word nie Dit behoort ook alle staatsaanstellings in te sluit
Almal van ons moet ons deel bydra tot die morele heropbou van ons land Uiteindelik is die misdaadkrisis nie net 'n polisiëringsprobleem nie; dit is 'n staats- en samelewingskrisis,” sê MacMaster
BRENDENRUITER
BRENDEN RU TER@NOVUSMED A CO ZA
Solank die wil nie bestaan om misdaad in verarmde gemeenskappe te stuit nie, sal die Kaap se strate aanhou bloei
Ivan Waldeck, ‘n voormalige bendeleier en nou pastoor, dat solank daar nie politieke wil is om die grondliggende redes vir bendes te pak nie, sal dinge nooit verander nie
Waldeck, wie se lewensverhaal onlangs in 'n boek, The gates of hell, vertel is, weet waarvan hy praat, omdat dieselfde omstandighede wat vir hom tot 'n lewe van misdaad gelei het, steeds bestaan Hy het arm grootgeword in die destydse Tiervlei (nou Ravensmead) en was van jongs af blootgestel aan geweld en dwelms Deur ongenaakbaar te lewe, het hy hom uiteindelik opgewerk tot een van die mees gevreesde bendeleiers in die Wes-Kaap TWEEDEKANS
Ná jare in die tronk het Waldeck sy lewe reggeruk en deesdae probeer hy jongmense help met sy nie-winsgewende organisasie, Cape Transformation Centre By die sentrum probeer hulle jongmense wat die pad byster geraak het, 'n tweede kans gee "Kinders raak sonder waardigheid in armoede groot en hulle voel niemand kom om hulle te help nie Wat doen hulle? Hulle sluit by bendes aan, want daar kry jy 'n reputasie en 'n soort respek Jy deel ook in die winste uit misdaad," sê Waldeck
Hy reken nie alle arm mense raak by bendes betrokke nie, maar armoede en die afwesigheid van waardigheid skep 'n teelaarde vir bendebedrywighede
"Daar is so baie gebroke huise met afwesige gesinstrukture As daar nie 'n pa is nie, neem die bendeleier daardie rol oor
“Ouers en veral mans moet hul rol in die opvoeding van hul kinders ernstiger opneem Leierlose jongmense raak roekelose en onverantwoordelike volwassenes en jammerlik herhaal hierdie bose siklus homself elke jaar," sê Waldeck Wat kan gedoen word om die euwel van bendes nek om te draai?
"In die korttermyn moet daar met bendeleiers in gesprek getree word Ons kan doen wat ons wil, maar bendeleiers moet deel wees van die oplossing net soos hulle deel is van die probleem
“Die gemeenskap moet as 'n gesamentlike span opruk en met die leiers gaan praat Dit help nie almal wil hul eie ding doen nie Bendeleiers is ook mense en al wil ons ook glo dat hulle so magtig is, kan geen mens opstaan teen 'n gemeenskap wat saamstaan nie
“Die regering, op alle vlakke, moet ook saam met gemeenskappe werk om die probleem te pak Sonder politieke wil is ons kinders soos lammers ter slagting
“In my boek gee ek praktiese maniere van hoe alle sfere van die samelewing kan saamwerk om bendegeweld op te los, maar daar moet net 'n wil wees," sê hy
ESMEERASMUS
ESME ERASMUS@NOVUSMEDIA CO ZA
As jy die 75-jarige man daar in die voetpaadjies van Clara Anna Fontein in Durbanville sien stap dat die stof trek, wéét dat jy kyk na die Suid-Afrikaanse en Afrika-rekordhouer in meestersnelstap Piet Pretorius, 'n oudpolitikus met meer as 40 jaar in een of ander hoedanigheid by die parlement en Wes-Kaapse wetgewer, het op 19 Julie dié rekord verbeter by die Westelike Provinsie Meestersnelstapkampioenskap, wat by die Youngsfield Militêre Basis plaasgevind het
Pretorius neem deel in die ouderdomsgroep 75 tot 79 jaar Hoewel hy as jong man aan dié sport deelgeneem het, het die gogga weer gebyt toe hy tydens die Covid-19-inperking om en om sy huis begin stap het om oefening te kry Pretorius was vir die eerste 30 jaar van sy werksloopbaan van meer as 40 jaar by die parlement en die Wes-Kaapse wetgewer betrokke as 'n amptenaar en uiteindelik die sekretaris van die WesKaapse wetgewer Hy is in 2009 as lid van die Nasionale Vergadering verkies, maar is in 2012 deur die Demokratiese Alliansie na die Wes-Kaapse wetgewer oorgeplaas, waar hy as adjunk-speaker verkies is - 'n amp wat hy beklee het tot met sy uittrede uit die politiek in 2019 Sy rekordtyd in die 10 km-padwedloop was 63:16 - 29 sekondes vinniger as die vorige rekord!
EERSTESTAPWEDLOOP
Die eerste stapwedloop waaraan hy as 25-jarige jongman in 1975 deelgeneem het, was die Groot Stap, wat destyds jaarliks op 10 Oktober van die Parade in Kaapstad na Simonstad en terug oor 'n afstand van 80 km plaasgevind het "Ek het ingeskryf sonder enige behoorlike oefening en met geen helper nie - net ‘n paar munte in my sak ingeval ek sou swaarkry en die trein moes haal terug Kaapstad toe!" vertel hy Hy het egter deurgedruk en algeheel tiende geëindig - die voorste nuweling in die wedloop Die jaar daarna was hy algeheel derde, en nog 'n jaar later algeheel tweede onder die aansporing van sy vrou, Dot, langs die pad Hy het toe sy Westelike Provinsie-kleure in snelstap verwerf "Ek het my staploopbaan daarna vir baie jare op die agtergrond geskuif weens gesins- en loopbaanverpligtinge, en eers weer tydens Covid-19 begin stap "
Toe byeenkomste weer toegelaat is, het hy by die Bellville-Atletiekklub en Meestersatletiek aangesluit Sy tye het geleidelik verbeter en in 2021 het hy sy nasionale kleure in snelstap verwerf Hy was daarna elke jaar die wenner in sy ouderdomsgroep by die WP-kampioenskap en het ook goud verwerf albei kere wat hy aan die SA Meestersatletiekkampioenskap deelgeneem het - die mees onlangse vroeër vanjaar toe hy nog in die ouderdomsgroep 70 tot 74 jaar deelgeneem het
Sy volgende groot uitdaging is die SA kampioenskap, wat vroeg in Mei aanstaande jaar in Germiston sal plaasvind
Pretorius en sy vrou woon die afgelope
Piet Pretorius (regs) en Robert Buck,voorsitter van die WP-meestersatletiekvereniging,spog met Pretorius se Suid-Afrikaanse en Afrika-rekordtyd van 63:16 by die Westelike Provinsie Meesterssnelstapkampioenskap - 29 sekondes vinniger as die vorige rekord!
18 maande by Oasis Life in Clara Anna Fontein, waar ook sy seun Danie, sy vrou, Lorna, en hul twee kinders, Emily en Daniel, bly - "sommer langs my stappaadjie"
STAPPAADJIES
"Die omgewing en die natuurskoon vra vir oefening en ek geniet elke oomblik daarvan Stap is ook betreklik beseringsvry en eenvoudig ‘n wonderlike manier om oud word so effe op die agtergrond te probeer hou!" vertel hy "Ek stap weekliks ongeveer 50 km – 10 km vyf keer per week, gewoonlik vroeg in die oggend wanneer dit lekker koel is Ek stel een maal per maand vir my ‘n tyddoelwit en probeer dan om op my persoonlike beste tyd vir die roete te verbeter Clara se paadjies is uitdagend met heelwat heuwels – dit help beslis vir fiksheid En dis ook sommer lekker om elke dag so aan die oefen verby ons kinders se huis in die groter landgoed te kan stap en vir die kleinkinders oor die heining te kan groete skree!"
Só het hy die afgelope sowat 14 maande al meer as 2 000 km op hierdie paadjies afgele!'
KRIEKET
Hy was sy lewe lank met een of ander sport doenig: krieket op skool, later klubkrieket en jare lank sosiale krieket vir die parlementêre krieketspan saam met oud-parlementariërs soos Sir De Villiers Graaff, sy seun Sir David Graaff, Van Zyl Slabbert, John Wiley, Colin Eglin, Alex Boraine, Barend du Plessis en vele ander Hy het op universiteit ook pluimbal gespeel en lank sosiale gholf by die Bellville-gholfklub Hy het 'n paar Kaapstad-fietstoere gery, die Twee Oseanemarathon en ook enkele ander marathons en halfmarathons voltooi
Pretorius het ook vir jare metaalverklikking (veral op die strand) gedoen "Met al my stappery het dit bietje agterweë gebly; hopelik sal ek dit later weer gereeld doen "
