Mayorpushesfor strongerconvictions
Cape Town Mayor Geordin Hill-Lewis has called for urgent action to strengthen conviction rates for gang, gun and drug crime, following the release of the latest Quarterly Crime Statistics While police arrests and weapon confiscations remain high across several Cape Town precincts, the Mayor warned that prosecution failures continue to undermine efforts to curb violent crime
“The latest crime stats make it clear that violent crime continues to plague some of our most vulnerable communities,” HillLewis said
“We see encouraging declines in murder in areas like Nyanga, Philippi East and Khayelitsha all supported by LEAP deployments but without stronger conviction rates, we cannot turn the tide ”
STRONGERARRESTS,WEAKCONVICTIONS
The City highlighted that the police is confiscating significant quantities of illegal guns and drugs across multiple precincts, and that City enforcement agencies are also removing over 450 illegal firearms from Cape Town’s streets each year
Despite this, the conviction rate for gunrelated cases stands at just 5%, a figure the Mayor described as “an indictment of a broken criminal justice system ”
Hill-Lewis urged the Acting Police Minister to urgently resource the police and expand draft municipal policing power regulations published earlier this year
“With more policing powers, our officers can build prosecution-ready dockets immediately and help secure more convictions for gang, gun and drug crime,” he said
CITY’SENFORCEMENTCAPACITY
Recent City data shows major disparities in policing capacity between the City’s enforcement agencies and the police
FROMPAGE1
Details not given about the Wynberg and Strand escapes but it was disclosed that a convicted rapist also recently escaped from Helderstroom Maximum Prison Police have not provided public explanations, announced suspensions or revealed what consequences those responsible have faced DA member of parliament Nicholas Gotsell strongly condemned the repeated security failures and demanded immediate accountability from Patekile
“These dangerous escapes put our communities at direct risk,” he said “We’re seeing a pattern of systemic failure in police cell-block security and discipline that cannot be ignored ”
The DA has particular criticism for Patekile, accusing him of failing to respond to formal correspondence about security concerns, of refusing to address Parliament despite official requests, reinstating officers dismissed for serious misconduct and dismissing security concerns as mere “TikTok issues”
COMMISSIONERUNDERFIRE
Patekile also overturned dismissals of officers found guilty of serious misconduct or criminal offences on the grounds that the “relationship between them and the South African Police Service has not broken down irretrievably”
The DA has formally written to the chairperson of the select committee on security and justice, requesting that the commissioner be summoned to parliament before the year's end to account for; the specifics of the escapes, the breakdown in police discipline and holding-cell security and the measures being implemented to prevent further security breaches
“Dangerous suspects who escape from custody are returning to the very communities they threaten,” Gotsell pointed out
“In a province already battling soaring
NEW STATS REVEAL POLICE DOWN 1 300 OFFICERS WHILE CITY BOOSTS ENFORCEMENT BY 48%
Since 2021, the City has added 1 263 new officers, representing a 48% increase, while police staffing in Cape Town has dropped by 1 300 officers, or 15%
The City also now has 560 more policing vehicles on the road compared to the police, based on 2025 fleet data
JP Smith, Mayco member for safety and security said the City’s investment is clearly strengthening community safety but conviction rates remain the biggest barrier
“Our new Neighbourhood Safety Officers (NSOs) have made substantial drug-related arrests, yet cases fall flat due to backlogs and systemic failures
“We need urgent reform across the justice system,” Smith said
DETECTIVESHORTAGES
A parliamentary reply revealed that police vacancy rates across many Cape Town precincts sit between 20% and 40%, including 200 vacant detective posts as of August Smith said these shortages, combined with delayed crime data releases, hinder proactive policing
“We have continually asked for real-time crime data to better deploy our resources
“The City has shown we can assist the police through intelligence-led investigations that dismantle syndicates, but we need the powers and cooperation to do so ”
Hill-Lewis said: “It’s a Black Friday for Cape Town given these stats but our special offer remains 100% more investigative capacity The Acting Minister should not refuse it ”
crime rates we cannot afford this level of incompetence from our police leadership ” He said the systemic failure in police security and discipline was particularly concerning given the Western Cape’s ongoing struggles with violent crime
Communities need assurance that when dangerous individuals are arrested they will remain in secure custody until their court appearances, Gotsell pointed out He said the DA was questioning whether the commissioner is fit to lead the provincial police force, suggesting his dismissive attitude and failure to maintain security standards made him unsuitable for the position
“Our communities deserve better than a police commissioner who treats serious security breaches as social media jokes,” Gotsell pointed out
Police spokesperson Wesley Twigg confirmed the escape, then added: “Kindly be advised that the escapee was rearrested in Durbanville on Saturday 22 November ”
. Anyone with information about escaped detainees should contact their nearest police station immediately, or call Crime Stop on 08600 10111
Third detainee escape in one month from Cape Town police custody sparks Democratic Alliance demands for commissioner accountability measures
OptogdeurGoodwoodenParow
RICHARDROBERTS
RICHARD ROBERTS@NOVUSMEDIA CO ZA
Sowat 50 mense het verlede Dinsdag in Goodwood en Parow aan 'n vreedsame optog deelgeneem ter ondersteuning van die 16 Dae van Aktivisme-veldtog.
Die veldtog teen geweld teen vroue en kinders word jaarliks tussen 25 November en 10 Desember gehou
Die groep het van die Goodwoodpolisiekantoor in Wienerstraat, Goodwood, tot by die Parow-polisiekantoor in Arnold Wilhelmstraat geloop en is deur 'n konvooi begelei wat die polisie, wetstoepassingseenheid, metropolisie, die Voortrekkerwegkorridorverbeteringsdistrik (VRCID) en private sekerheidsmaatskappye ingesluit het Plaaslike buurtwagte, die gemeenskapspolisiëringsforum (GPF), Radio Tygerberg 104FM, kerk- en gemeenskapsleiers het ook deelgeneem
Die optog is geopen met 'n gebed in die parkeerterrein van die polisiekantoor voordat die groep in Voortrekkerweg begin stap het
HULP
Babalwa Ntintishe, 'n maatskaplike werker van die Wes-Kaapse departement van maatskaplike ontwikkeling, het die groep daar toegespreek
Sy het genoem dat mense wat geslagsgebaseerde geweld pleeg selde aan die pen ry omdat die slagoffers die sake gewoonlik terugtrek
"Ons moedig hulle aan om dit nie te doen nie," sê sy
Ntintishe sê die departement het 'n program waarby oortreders kan baatvind
"Ons moet hieroor praat Sommige vroue wil nie, omdat hulle afhanklik is van die oortreder, daarom word sake ook
BEWUSMAKING MOET LEI TOT VERANTWOORDBAARHEID
teruggetrek," sê Ntintishe
Hul departement se kantoor is in Goodwood gesetel, maar dit dien onder meer Leonsdale, Parow, Ravensmead en Goodwood
AO Antoinette Owies van die Parowpolisie en sers Lucille Fortune van die Goodwood-polisie het die geleentheid gereël
"Ek en sers Fortune het gevoel ons wil saamwerk aan die veldtog om ons gemeenskappe bewus te maak van geslagsgebaseerde geweld teenoor vroue en kinders, maar ook mans Ons wil aan die gemeenskap beklemtoon dat daar hulp is wanneer hulle in so 'n verhouding vasgekeer is," sê Owies
VOLHOUBAREAKSIE
Patrick Lombardo, 'n lid van die Goodwood-GPF, het ook 'n toespraak gelewer
"Geslagsgebaseerde geweld, hetsy fisiek, emosioneel of ekonomies, is steeds een van die aakligste menseregteskendings van ons tyd Dis nie net 'n misdaad nie, dis 'n vernietigende krag wat ons families afbreek, ons gemeenskappe verswak, en die potensiaal van toekomsige generasies steel Maar, terwyl ons erkenning gee aan die vordering wat gemaak is, moet ons steeds die moeilike waarheid aanpak dat geslagsgebaseerde geweld steeds te veel in ons huise, strate, skole en instellings voorkom," sê hy Hy sê aktivisme begin met bewusmaking, maar dat dit nie daar moet stop nie "Bewusmaking moet lei tot
Supercross action coming to city
The world's top supercross riders will descend on Cape Town for the ultimate showdown as the FIM World Supercross Championship crowns its 2025 world champions at DHL Stadium on Saturday 13 December
After a gruelling global calendar that has taken the championship through Buenos Aires, Vancouver, the Gold Coast and Stockholm, the season-long quest for glory will reach its climax in the Mother City A night of high-stakes racing between the strongest field in the championship's history will determine the SX1, SX2 and Team World Champions The SX1 class promises fierce competition as championship contenders Ken Roczen, Jason Anderson, Joey Savatgy and Christian Craig have battled for crucial championship points all season heading into the finale In the SX2 division, reigning champion Shane McElrath faces a tough fight to defend his crown against a relentless field that includes key challengers Max Anstie and Enzo Lopes
ATMOSPHERE
"Cape Town is the perfect location for our season finale," said Tom Burwell, CEO of World Supercross
"The intensity of the title hunt, combined with the phenomenal atmosphere of the DHL Stadium, guarantees an unforgettable night The riders, teams and fans are all ready to see who has what it takes to be crowned the 2025 World Champion " Tony Feldman, Director at Showtime Management, emphasised the significance of bringing world-class supercross to South African shores "The quality of racing for the World Supercross Championship finale in Cape Town will be nothing like South African fans have ever seen before To have the world's best riders descend upon DHL Stadium to decide the champions of the world will be a spectacular moment and a fitting climax to the global series," Feldman said The South African GP will feature comprehensive ticket packages catering to all fans, including designated family zones, general admission, premium seating and hospitality options
. Tickets and further information are available at www.showtime co.za or www ticketmaster co.za. Hospitality enquiries can be directed to contactdhls@circa.co.za.
. Visit www tygerburger co.za for a chance to win a set of four tickets to see the World Supercross Championship on 13 December.
verantwoordbaarheid, en dit moet lei tot aksie en aksie moet lei tot egte volhoubare oplossings," sê Lombardo Hy het versoek dat die veldtog nie net simbolies van aard moet wees nie "Laat dit die vonk wees wat ons inspireer om dwarsdeur die jaar te pleit lank nadat die 16 dae verby is Laat ons werk aan gemeenskappe waar elke vrou en elke kind vrylik kan rondloop, veilig kan liefhê en met vrymoedigheid kan droom " Pamflette, met inligting rakende dié euwel en waar slagoffers om hulp kan aanklop, is ook tydens die optog aan lede van die publiek uitgedeel
Lede van die Goodwood- en Parow-polisie lei Dinsdag die optog deur Voortrekkerweg ter ondersteuning van die 16 Dae van Aktivisme-veldtog
Patrick Lombardo van die Goodwood-GPF het‘n boodskap by die geleentheid gelewer
The world’s
Womansharesglobalexperience
RICHARDROBERTS
R CHARD ROBERTS@NOVUSMEDIA CO ZA
Alocal volunteer from the La Leche League South Africa recently attended an international breastfeeding conference held in Lima, Peru where she not only rubbed shoulders with like-minded individuals from across the world, but also learned more about the work they do, how their non-profit organisation (NPO) came into existence, while also having the opportunity to explore the South American country
TygerBurger reported on Gwynneth Jacobs, the volunteer and mom of two, who works at the NPO based in Bothasig last month, before she jetted off to South America
La Leche League provides breastfeeding education, information and support to breastfeeding mothers and is fully run by volunteer counsellors, referred to as leaders These leaders receive accredited training and is affiliated with La Leche League International, a world authority on breastfeeding
Jacobs said the conference brought together volunteers and experts from over 40 countries, uniting individuals passionate about promoting and supporting breastfeeding “I was honoured to be one of six delegates from La Leche League SA who attended the conference, thanks to a travel scholarship granted by Friends of La Leche League, an alumnae association of La Leche League International
VOLUNTEER LEARNS ABOUT BREASTFEEDING CULTURES
comprising retired leaders,” she said
SPEAKERS
Jacobs added: “During the three-day event, I listened to many outstanding speakers discussing various topics related to breastfeeding and La Leche League International One notable speaker was Dr Rahmat Bagus, a leader, medical doctor, and international board-certified lactation consultant
“Her insightful talk, titled ‘Breastfeeding vs Breastmilk Feeding’, highlighted the differences between the two concepts Another engaging presentation featured leaders from Japan, Israel, Mexico, and Lebanon, who shared their experiences in supporting breastfeeding mothers during emergencies and the negative impact that conflict and war have on breastfeeding ”
Jacobs said she was also honoured to present their organisation's fundraising efforts, on behalf of the NPO “It was an incredible opportunity to showcase what La Leche League SA has achieved and to learn about fundraising initiatives in other countries These efforts are essential to supporting our mission of providing breastfeeding support, educating our volunteers, and raising community awareness,” she said
Some sessions were interactive, featuring breakout groups and discussions Leaders from New Zealand and Canada led a session on nurturing long-term leader relationships, which was a personal highlight for Jacobs “It reminded me of why I became a leader and provided insight into how to navigate the challenges we face Other presentations covered the mission and vision of La Leche League, as well as the work of the organisation's International Area Network Council ”
A standout moment was a live session with founder Marian Tompson, she said “At age 95, she is the last surviving member of the seven founding mothers of La Leche League All leaders had the opportunity to speak with her via a live call, which was a surreal experience Hearing her firsthand account of how the idea for La Leche League originated and how it has evolved into a global network for breastfeeding support was truly inspiring ”
NOTALLBUSINESS
The conference was not all business, she said, it was wonderful to meet and converse with leaders from around the world “We celebrated La Leche League Peru's 25th anniversary during the event On the final night, leaders showcased their countries, and we were treated to beautiful traditional dances, especially from leaders representing Colombia, where the next conference will take place in 2027 We also sold traditional
South African items during a world fair, raising funds for La Leche League SA by selling chocolates, jewellery, rooibos tea, and more “We even had the chance to explore Lima during our stay We enjoyed a walking tour along the coast, shopped at the Inka Market, and attended a breathtaking water and light show We also encountered Paddington Bear, who is originally from Peru Lima, the capital city, is vibrant and bustling, filled with friendly locals ” Jacobs said this experience was truly a once-in-a-lifetime
opportunity “Travelling and connecting with my sister leaders from around the globe has further inspired me to advocate for breastfeeding support and help mothers achieve their breastfeeding goals La Leche League SA has volunteers throughout the country, and I encourage mothers to reach out to us for support ”
This year's conference, the 14th International Congress of the La Leche League International Area Network, themed “together we grow stronger” was held from Friday 7 to Sunday 9 November . For more information visit www lllsa.org.
Gwynneth Jacobs,volunteer at La Leche League South Africa,recently attended a conference in Lima,Peru
Moneyraisedformobilityscooter
Abilities in Support C
DED isabilityns the c material or blind, learningmong those has a known oliosis, ry failure ong-term esult, limits g enough ghter tion from ss War Hospital in was just ot sick I hich is this at night, I machine n do ntly, when the I ed a shop ) to get p , aid Cuba, who struggled to breathe when
Over a million tourists visited the Cape last month
More than one million tourists visited the Western Cape during last month, the DA's chairperson for the standing committee on agriculture, economic development and tourism, Noko Masipa, says In a statement issued on Thursday (27 November) the DA said it welcomes Wesgro's latest Air Access data for the month of October, which confirms that the province continues to lead South Africa's tourism recovery and expansion The report shows that the province's airport network delivered another month of double-digit growth, reflecting a sector that is strengthening ahead of the festive season Cape Town International Airport processed more than 287 000 international two-way passengers in October, representing a year-on-year increase of 15% South Africa recorded 927 426 international arrivals in October, and the Western Cape accounted for more than a third of that total, says Masipa "October s tourism performance shows a province in full stride The Western Cape continues to attract more visitors due to our tourism offering This momentum support jobs, drives small business growth and positions in the province for a strong summer season," he says Masipa was asked how many tourists
are expected to visit the province this December festive season
"On the number side, we are just estimating, and we call nothing less than 15% growth," he responded, adding that it could be lower, but that they remain very optimistic
While there are no official estimates yet for two-way passenger movement this coming December, all indicators point that the Western Cape is going to have the busiest festive season to date, he said December last year saw 331 295 two-way international passengers and 706 641 twoway domestic passengers through Cape Town International Airport, a combined total of 1 037 936 passengers Given the continued upward trajectory in aviation and tourism demand, we anticipate higher volumes this festive season, says Masipa Mapisa was also asked to which specific tourist sites tourists flock in the province In terms of visitor behaviour, the province's most iconic destinations remain consistently popular Table Mountain National Park, Cape Nature Parks across the province, the V&A Waterfront and our beaches are expected to draw significant footfall, alongside the many cultural, food, wine and nature-based experiences that make the Western Cape a leading leisure destination, says Masipa
Kock agreed to pay for the maintenance of the scooter
And when he heard that she failed to secure funding for her post-graduate degree, he offered to wipe away her debt She broke down in tears It is not easy for the 26-year-old to speak about herself or ask for help In fact, for most of her childhood, she would not go outside
“Each time I used to go outside, kids used to laugh at me, and I used to cry, and it hurt But things changed when I began to accept myself I cannot change myself
“This is how I am I used to hide myself I used to stay inside I don't anymore,” said a tearful Cuba, who recounted that most of her childhood was spent at a paediatric intermediate care facility and with an aunt in Khayelitsha on the Cape Flats
She eventually enrolled at Jan Kriel School in Kuils River, where teachers became her family
“She stayed at the school’s hostel and was gifted the scooter, which she still uses today The teachers then looked to UWC to help her fulfil her dreams of advocating for disabled people, who, she said, often fall victim to severe abuse After obtaining her LLB, she was unable to secure
articles at a law firm Instead, she enrolled for her LLM and her research focuses on police corruption in the South African criminal justice system
PERSEVERANCE
“When I was in matric, I told myself I had to pass because my mother died, and I had no one The University had to be my friend I can’t sit in Khayelitsha and do nothing, being a laughing stock Next year, I will be completing my research After that, I don’t know, but I want to start working
“I like to see her prosper in her life, and so it should be for every other student – black students in particular and people who come from disadvantaged positions, which I know because I've been disadvantaged myself, ” said Kock
Singh said the golf day was a “resounding success” It yielded a profit of R 405 000, which included Kock’s donation of R81 000
“We were honoured to host two remarkable student ambassadors, Richie Malonga and Qaqamba (Angel) Cuba, who attended the prize-giving dinner alongside Dr Laetitia Permall, Director of the Centre for Student Support Services Their presence brought heart and purpose to the evening ”
. For more information about the Office for Students with Disabilities, visit: campus-life/sds-departments/ centre-for-student-support-services
Qaqamba Cuba on her mobility scooter
Vermaak // Entertainment
StepintoWonderland thisfestiveseason
Cape Town City Ballet invites audiences to tumble down the rabbit hole this festive season with a brand-new production of Alice in Wonderland at Artscape choreographed by internationally-acclaimed Gerard Charles.
Inspired by Lewis Carroll's timeless tales Alice's Adventures in Wonderland and Through the Looking Glass, this enchanting ballet promises a theatrical journey filled with whimsy wonder and artistry Audiences will follow Alice into a fantastical world teeming with curious creatures and mischievous characters. Cape Town City Ballet brings the story
to life through their signature blend of classical grace and vibrant storytelling.
Choreographer Gerard Charles brings extensive experience coaching international ballet performers. He creates a unique interpretation for Cape Town dance lovers. Charles is celebrated for blending technical precision with theatrical charm. He has mentored two emerging choreographers contributing to the production: principal Leusson Muniz
(cast as The Mad Hatter) and corps de ballet member Abdul Isaacs
FAMILYFUN
This spectacular production marks another milestone for Cape Town City Ballet, now in its 92nd year As Africa's oldest ballet company it continues upholding a legacy of artistic excellence and innovation, merging tradition with fresh, imaginative vision.
The cast includes professional actor Gregan Aherin and Amahle Cindy Nyeke from The Rainbow Academy Four young dancers from Cape Town ballet schoolsZara Yazbek, Kai Damon, Cameron Payne and Sinethemba Wisani - will alternate as young Alice Excitingly, 90 children will take to the stage (30 per show) as playing cards, flowers and fish.
Suitable for all ages, Alice in Wonderland offers an unforgettable experience for children discovering ballet and seasoned art lovers alike Cape Town City Ballet transports audiences to a world where imagination reigns supreme
DETAILS
Alice in Wonderland runs at Artscape from Friday 12 to Sunday 28 December with evening performances at 19:00 and afternoon shows at 12:00, 14:00 and 16:30 All performances feature recorded music.
. Tickets from R200 are available at Webtickets and Artscape Dial-ASeat on 021 421 7695. No under 5s at
DAGBOEK / DIARY
. Klassiek ontmoet Pop, met Louis Loock en Cobus Snyman, is op Woensdag 3 Desember om 20:30 by Die Boer-teaterrestaurant te sien. Kaartjies kos R200 Bespreek by www dieboer com of by 021 979 1911.
. Tydloos: Back to school in the 90’s is van Woensdag 3 tot Saterdag 6 Desember om 20:30 by Heroes Brackenfell. Kaartjies kos van R180 tot R220 Bespreek by www brackenfell.net of by iTickets
. Summer Symphonies at The City Hall: Louis' Legacy is on Thursday 4 December at 19:30 Tickets from R190 to R450 at Webtickets.
. South African Independent Film Festival (SAIFF) is at the Labia Theatre from Friday 5 to Sunday 7 December Tickets cost R90 and are available at Webtickets.
. Karen Zoid en Francois van Coke tree op Sondag 7 Desember om 17:15 by Kirstenbosch op Die hekke maak 16:00 oop Kaartjies kos R360 of R255 (kinders) by Webtickets.
. Danie Reënwolf: Songs en Stories is op Woensdag 10 Desember om 20:30 by Heroes Brackenfell. Kaartjies kos van R180 tot R220 Bespreek by www.brackenfell. net of iTickets
. Cats the musical runs at Artscape Opera House from 10 December to 11 January Tickets from R180 to R580 at Webtickets
. Kurt Darren tree op Donderdag 11 Desember om 20:30 by Heroes Brackenfell op Kaartjies kos van R180 tot R220 Bespreek by www.brackenfell.net of by iTickets.
. Cape Town City Ballet’s Alice in Wonderland runs at Artscape from 12 to 28 December Tickets R200 to R400 at Webtickets
. The Tribal Union Choir presents The Journey, an inspiring evening of praise and worship on Sunday 14 December at 18:00
at the Kraaifontein Civic Centre Advance tickets cost R100, or pay R150 at the door
Contact Dealin Pierang on 076 537 3651.
. Alan Committie's new show Av-alaugh-ta runs at Theatre on the Bay from 17 December to 7 February Tickets from R200 at Webtickets
. Early B tree op Woensdag 17 Desember om 20:30 by Heroes Brackenfell op Kaartjies kos van R180 tot R220 Bespreek by www.brackenfell.net of iTickets
. Cape Town Carols at Kirstenbosch runs from Thursday 18 to Sunday 21 December at 18:00 Gates open at 17:00 Tickets cost R125 at Webtickets
. Nik Rabinowitz – Geriatric Millennial runs at The Baxter Concert Hall now until 20 December Tickets from R225 at Webtickets
. Schalk Bezuidenhout’s Krismis Bonanza runs at The Baxter Studio now until 20 December Tickets cost R300 at Webtickets
. Jeremy Loops is at Zevenwacht Wine Estate on Sunday 21 December Tickets R295 at Webtickets
. Boney M featuring Maizie Williams is at De Grendel Wine Estate on Sunday 21 December Gates open at 12:00 and show ends at 19:00 Tickets from R595 at Webtickets . Brendan Peyper tree op Vrydag 26 Desember om 20:30 by Heroes Brackenfell op Kaartjies kos van R260 tot R300 Bespreek by www.brackenfell.net of by iTickets
. The Kiffness is at the Kirstenbosch Summer Sunset Concert on Sunday 28 December Gates open
Leusson Muniz as the Mad Hatter
NewredwinemakeratDurbanvilleHills
Tammy Claasen (38), who now heads red-wine making at Durbanville Hills, was one of the very earliest beneficiaries of the Cape Winemakers’ Guild Protégé programme.
The initiative, that began almost 20 years ago, identifies winemaking students of keen talent and then matches them with legendary mentors in the industry to help ignite and forge their potential
From 2009 Tammy spent more than three years under the mentorship of celebrated Carl Schultz of Hartenberg Estate It was not only an excellent professional beginning, but also character-building
TRANSFORMATIONINTOWINEMAKER
“After my academic studies at Stellenbosch University I had a good bit of theoretical training under my belt," said Claasen "But with Carl and the support of the entire team at Hartenberg I could transform into an actual winemaker I know that sounds obvious but responding to the soil beneath my feet, to the tangible, tactile experience of holding the harvest in my hand and then translating that location and the history of the vintage into wines, each with their own unique story, was a very powerful transition for me
“The way I was guided, the confidence expressed in me and the scope I was given to evolve my own style, shaped me very much as a person and as a leader here in the cellars of one of South Africa’s leading and most trusted wine brands ”
HEADOFRED-WINEMAKING
Appointed Durbanville Hills' assistant winemaker in 2024, she rose to head of redwine making earlier this year, taking over after the tragic demise of Wilhelm Coetzee Her experience is wide-ranging, in big and small cellars, large corporates and familyowned entities
“There was no doubt that she should be Wilhelm’s successor,” said managing director Albert Gerber
“She’s gifted, she’s smart, she’s energetic
TAMMY BRINGS VINTER HERITAGE, ENTHUSIASM AND FORMIDABLE SKILLS TO NEW ROLE
and she has great ideas ” She has worked abroad, in the cellars of Duckhorn Vineyards, one of the most prominent names in wine in the Napa Valley, California, Oregon’s Union Wine Company and Weingut Kitzer winery, close to Badenheim on the western edge of Rheinhessen in Germany She also spent several years in Stellenbosch cellars, in Franschhoek and the Helderberg
PERSONALITYTOEACHVARIETY
Moving to the cooler-climate Durbanville Hills, where Atlantic morning mists impart a vibrant acidity and pleasing fruit purity to the wines, has brought a fresh perspective to her approach
She has adopted a technique of giving a personality to each of the grape varieties coming into the cellar
“It’s like having a personal relationship
with each one For me Merlot is a tomboy, bold at first, but with an air of grace and finesse just waiting to be teased out Pinotage is a rebel It’s super-complex and needs a very close watch Shiraz is the one everyone loves because of its versatility I could go on and on "
“It’s just one of the ways I maintain curiosity It pushes me to experiment
“On the one hand I’m careful to acknowledge those who have preceded me, but on the other, I’m staying true to a stylistic goal
“Here at Durbanville Hills we pride ourselves on achieving a balance between power and elegance There’s no formula for that I try to look at each wine individually to get it right It can be a tightrope act, but I guess that holds true as much in the cellar as in life!
“Not just for me, but for all the team, it becomes a process of self-discovery For each of us individually, you try to listen to your heart but remain patient and persistent and just keep at it That’s how you discover who you are and what you are capable of It’s about showing up mentally every day Being present and attentive to not just the obvious but also those small details that can make the difference ”
If that sounds like Paulo Coelho, whose bestseller, The Alchemist, has inspired millions of readers worldwide, it is It was he who wrote: “When you want something, all the universe conspires in helping you to achieve it "
“That’s always been my mantra It has served me well as far as focus and discipline are concerned
“But I’m also so fortunate to come from a farming and a wine family My father leads Koopmanskloof Wines My brother is involved there too My husband works in wine in Franschhoek Having the chance to indulge in your passion with almost the entire family is an undeniable privilege
“Believe me, I’m making the most of it!”
Tygerberg ontvang vyf nominasies vir radio-toekennings
Die afgelope week het sommer op 'n hoogtepunt vir die span by Radio Tygerberg 104FM begin nadat daar verneem is dat die span 'n volle vyf nominasies in vanjaar se Telkom Radiotoekenningskompetisie ontvang het “Die toekennings erken en vier jaarliks uitnemendheid in die radio-uitsaaibedryf Dit vereer omroepers, sowel as die professionele mense agter die skerms, soos byvoorbeeld vervaardigers en klankingenieurs,” het Rikus van Rooy, stasiebestuurder, gesê
Die toekennings word beoordeel deur 'n paneel wat gekies word vir hul kundigheid en ook verskeie tale magtig is Radiostasies het dan die geleentheid om hul werk wat oor 'n sekere tydperk uitgesaai is, in te skryf
BENOEMINGS
Die Radio Tygerberg-span het nominasies vir hul werk in die volgende kategorieë ontvang: . Laatmiddagaanbieder by 'n
gemeenskapstasie: Rouchelle Liedemann; . Beste potgooi: Rou en Real deur Liomee Vosloo; . Beste ontbytprogram op 'n gemeenskapstasie: Die Real Brêkfis, wat bestaan uit Benescke Janse van Rensburg, Neville D en Francois Boyce; . Promosie-aktiwiteit: Million Meals vir die verskaf van voedsame ontbytpap aan kwesbare kinders wat nie voldoende kos tuis kry nie, en . Aandprogram op 'n gemeenskapstasie: Nuwe Hoogtes aangebied deur Reinard Kotze
“Dit bly vir ons 'n voorreg om in die radiobedryf te werk en wanneer ons werk dan op so 'n belangrike platform vir uitmuntendheid genomineer word, motiveer dit ons om kreatiewe grense te verskuif Dit bevestig ook radio se blywende rol as 'n kragtige en relevante medium in Suid-Afrika,” sê Van Rooy
Die wenners in elke afdeling word op Saterdag 6 Desember by 'n geleentheid in Johannesburg in Gauteng aangekondig
Die Radio Tygerberg 104FM-span wat vir die Telkom Radio-toekenningskompetisie genomineer is,is (agter van links) Neville D (beste ontbytprogram op‘n gemeenskapstasie),Reinhard Kotze vir sy program Nuwe Hoogtes en Francois Boyce en Charl Havenga (albei ook deel van die ontbytprogram) Voor is Rouchelle Liedemann (beste laatmiddag aanbieder op‘n gemeenskapstasie),Liomee Vosloo (beste potgooi) en Benescke
Rensburg (ook deel van die ontbytprogram).
Janse van
Tammy Claasen
Christmas cheer in a tough economy
There’s something magical about walking into the shops at this time of year The aisles are lined with tinsel, rows of glittering Christmas trees and Mariah Carey’s voice floats across every store like an unofficial national anthem
But somewhere between the sparkling displays and the festive music, a lump grows in my throat one I suspect many South Africans are swallowing this season Because while Christmas is here in all its commercial glory, the money simply isn’t
I felt it most clearly on Black Friday I walked in with a plan: grab a few bargains, tick off some Christmas gifts early, and stretch my budget as far as humanly possible But even with the bold sale labels screaming at me, the discounts weren’t discounting enough I stood there, staring at a toy I knew my three-year-old would adore, and asked myself the painful question so many parents are asking this year: How are people affording all this? Everywhere I looked, trolleys were overflowing lights, wrapping paper, gadgets, giant Christmas crackers, treats that only appear once a year And then there was me, holding a calculator in my head like a reluctant accountant, trying to figure out if I could at least get some of the specials
WHILECHRISTMASISHEREIN ALLITSCOMMERCIALGLORY, THEMONEYSIMPLYISN’T.
Being a mom during the festive season is its own emotional storm You want to give your child the best Christmas the magic, the memories, the sparkle in their little eyes when they wake up on Christmas Day
My toddler is three now, old enough to understand the excitement, to point at decorations, to believe wholeheartedly in Father Christmas and “presents for good kids” And that makes me want to give him everything, but everything feels out of reach
Toys that were R199 last year are suddenly R349 Christmas pyjamas, which used to be a sweet little extra, now cost as much as a weekly grocery shop Even the basics wrapping paper, gift bags, tape have quietly climbed in price
It’s easy to fall into the trap of comparing You see other families posting matching outfits, beautifully decorated trees, mountains of gifts; you see influencers doing “Christmas shopping hauls” that cost more than your rent
And you start to wonder: Is everyone else earning something I’m not? Or are we all just pretending?
But here’s the truth I’m holding onto this year: your child won’t remember the price tag They will remember the moment They’ll remember baking cookies with you, even if the sprinkles are the cheap ones They’ll remember dancing to Christmas songs in the lounge while you wrap gifts after bedtime They’ll remember driving around the neighbourhood to look at lights, because that’s still free
We grew up believing Christmas was measured in presents, but maybe this tough economy is forcing us to rediscover what it’s really about Connection
Tradition Time So yes, the shops are beautiful, but they are also brutal reminders of how tight things are And yes, the pressure is real especially when you’re a parent wanting to make magic on a budget that feels like it shrank in the wash But the magic doesn’t come from the shelves It comes from us From the effort, the love, the warmth, the memories we create not the money we spend And maybe that’s the kind of Christmas worth having
Calling out the ‘snakes’ in D’ville
Your article "Reddam House new 2026 academic hub" is a confirming example of several snakes with forked tongues
Interesting how all the glory and praise is now being correctly bestowed on this school and on Klara Anna Fontein, both the highest achievements in their respective areas of offering in the northern suburbs These projects make Durbanville proud and have elevated the entire community into a higher sphere uncompromised But for 18 long and expensive years various bodies purporting to represent Durbanville residents, from one-man crusades to Durbanville Heritage Society, supported on an ongoing basis by your very newspaper We need to remind ourselves of the repeat objections, appeals, false narratives, challenges, court cases The Durbanville Heritage Society spent in excess of R2 5 million in legal fees so did others! Now that Klara Anna Fontein and Reddam House stand proud, there is not one inch of evidence of the insults and accusations that were blasted towards them prior to their developments
It is a sick snake with two tongues who today wishes to stand in the shadow of the success of these developments, but snakes with forked tongues have no shame, now choosing to recognise the impressive success of the educational intuition, its high standards and facilities Equally the housing estate has elevated Durbanville into a bracket higher than ever imagined, attracting the best of everyone into this area Congratulations, actually well done because you stood up to and held firm against these snakes, two tongue snakes who now bite the opposite to what they stood for Sadly, had these two developments stood 18 years early the spin of the elevated property market would not have delayed the growth of our town, and two generations of past young students lost out on an opportunity to have been educated at this prestigious level Durbanville, don't be amused by these self-crusaders, eliminate these snakes from our green pastures, they hide behind their keyboards in burrows of evil it is time these disgraced two-tongued snakes move out of our community, and never return Proudly and loyal Durbanville working to eliminate toxic little sick individuals PROFBATSYAKU,Durbanville
the city’s festive lights.Thousands of Capetonians United in Hope
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