TygerBurger | Tygervalley| E-Edition | 3 December 2025
SENDYOURCOMMUNITYEVENTSTO
TYGERBURGER@NOVUSMEDIA CO ZA
THURSDAY4DECEMBER
. Oom Piet’s Christmas Party is back. For the first time since Covid, the Rotary Club of Durbanville is once again hosting the magical fantasy evening for families from Thursday 4 December to Saturday 13 December Bring your picnic basket and enjoy a fabulous, joyous evening. All proceeds go to helping uplift the community Bookings now open on Quicket Call Carol on 083 261 9840 for more information.
. Tygerberg Hospice's annual Tree of Lights event will take place at 19:00 at Jan Kriel School in Kuils River Bring along a picnic blanket and come join a magical evening of remembrance and hope with a tree lit up in honour of loved ones who have passed. A light in remembrance of a loved one costs R60
Every light dedicated helps Tygerberg Hospice provide home-based care, comfort, and support to families facing life-limiting illness.
Visit www tygerberghospice org or call 021 946 2460 to make your dedication and light purchase
FRIDAY5DECEMBER
. South Africa's leading indie games festival, Playtopia, will bring together over 1 000 gaming enthusiasts and industry professionals for what organisers describe as Africa's premier celebration of video games and interactive arts at the Homecoming Centre in Cape Town on Friday 5 and Saturday 6 December
This year's festival will transport visitors to "Arcadia", a fantasy-themed library complete with portholes, spell books, potions and magic crystals. Tickets are available at www.playtopiafestival.co.za
. Join the crafters and charities for a magical evening at the traditional annual Gypsy Night Market presented by the Durbanville Craft Market from 17:00 to 21:00 on the corner Louw and Hafele street, Durbanville (behind the Durbanville Police Station) weather permitting. The best-dressed “gypsy” visitor can win a R300 shopping voucher to redeem at the market The winner will be announced at 19:30 Browse through the stalls for handmade gifts, have a meal at one of the food stalls or support the charity fundraising efforts by the charities. Entrance is free and pets are welcome Contact Durbanville Craft Market on 066 059 7251 or durbanvillecraftmarket@gmail.com for more information.
SATERDAG6DESEMBER
. Boston Open Studios 2025 vind van 09:00 tot 17:00 plaas. Die jaarlikse gebeurtenis, wat as 'n hoogtepunt beskou word, bied besoekers die seldsame geleentheid om kunstenaars in hul kreatiewe ruimtes te ontmoet en oorspronklike kunswerke teen studiopryse dikwels 30 to 60% laer as galerypryse te koop Die geleentheid is oop vir die publiek en gratis. Volg Boston Open Studios op sosiale media vir meer inligting.
. Business Support Services bied 'n entrepreneursmark aan by YWC House in Oude Molen, Pinelands, vanaf 09:00 Die geleentheid bring kleinsake-eienaars, produkmakers en diensgebaseerde entrepreneurs bymekaar vir ’n oggend van netwerk, vertoon van produkte en gemeenskapssteun. Toegang vir die publiek is gratis.
. The festive spirit arrives in full song this week as families friends, and neighbours gather for the muchloved Carols in the Park celebration at Jack Muller Park Gates opening at 18:30 and the carols beginning at 19:00 Bring along blankets and a picnic basket, enjoy a relaxed evening of music and celebration. Entry is free
. Oom Vossie Voortrekkers hou van 09:00 tot 15:00 'n vlooimark in die Voortrekkersaal in Disa-singel, Blomtuin. Kontak Salome by 084 325 4690 om staanplek te bespreek of vir meer inligting.
SONDAG7DESEMBER
. Die Geskenke met Kersfees Kersang-optrede met Olga Leonard en Babette Viljoen begin om 09:00 by die NG kerk Bellville (ou NGK Bellville-Noord) plaas Voorsang begin reeds om 08:45. Dié twee vroue wissel hul aanbieding af met duette tussen kerkorrel en klavier; sangduette, dwarsfluit en trekklavier
. Join the magic of the season at Carols in the Park at Ratanga Park, Century City Free tram rides run from 16:00to 18:00 Parking available (cashless) at Century City parkades. No alcohol or camp chairs allowed This outdoor event will take place on the lawns of Ratanga Park.
SATURDAY13DECEMBER
. The world's top supercross riders descends on Cape Town for the ultimate showdown as the FIM World Supercross Championship crowns its 2025 world champions at DHL Stadium 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 or for any other information can be directed to contactdhls@circa.co.za
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
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 ”
Boost for tourism ahead of festive
As Cape Town prepares to launch its most ambitious international campaign yet, the city's economic growth chief James Vos has a simple formula for tourism success connectivity is everything
With 2 4 million overnight visitors pumping R24 5 billion into the local economy last year, the city is doubling down on its strategy to become the continent's premier destination through expanded flight routes, enhanced infrastructure, and a world-reaching marketing blitz
Vos, the City's Mayco member for economic growth, last week addressed tourism and business leaders with a clear message about the city’s growth trajectory and the season ahead
Tourism, Vos said, is one of Cape Town’s strongest economic engines, creating opportunities for accommodation providers, tour operators, transport services, and attractions across the city
He stressed though that the real driver is connectivity
“You’ll often find me in a boardroom with airlines making the case for more routes into Cape Town,” he said
“And it’s paying off, we’re now connected to over 31 global destinations, with more than 228 international flights a week in peak season, and more on the way ”
Vos outlined his five-point focus for tourism growth, which includes landing more flights, docking more cruise liners, hosting more conferences and events, strengthening product readiness, and running campaigns that convert interest into bookings
WHAT’SAHEAD
Looking ahead, Vos shared his excitement for the coming season
“This rollout will reach audiences across all six continents, putting our city’s
story in front of millions more potential visitors ”
He added that the city is gearing up for a busy season and beyond, ensuring that Cape Town is ready to welcome more visitors than ever
While attracting visitors is essential, Vos highlighted that preparing the destination is just as important
“A world-class city must offer a worldclass experience,” he said, pointing to enhanced safety and security deployments, expanded area cleaning services, and ongoing investment in mobility, water, and energy infrastructure
The impact is clear: 2,4 million overnight visitors contributed R24,5 billion to Cape Town’s economy last year, supporting more than 106 000 jobs
“That’s real growth, and we aim to build on it,” Vos said
James Vos,Mayco member for economic growth in Cape Town
Allegedsnatcher unveiled
The Bellville Magistrate’s Court has ordered that alleged baby kidnapper Sameemah Jacobs must remove her pardah and present her ID when signing in at police stations, highlighting the tension between religious accommodation and security concerns in high-profile criminal cases
The 37-year-old woman, accused of kidnapping nine-day-old Mogamat Imaad Sharmar from a Bellville shopping complex in June, had applied to amend her bail conditions to allow her to sign in at Delft police station instead of Kleinvlei While the magistrate partially approved her request, the prosecutor insisted on strict identification verification measures, requiring Jacobs to remove her pardah an Islamic face veil when reporting to police
The court’s decision appears directly linked to Jacobs’ alleged pattern of using false identities during the kidnapping plot According to court documents, she posed as multiple characters including “Washeemah” and later as “Chevon,” claiming to be a nurse from an organisation called the “Zoey Project ”
This elaborate deception allowed her to gain the trust of baby Imaad’s mother, Imaan Sharmar, over several weeks before the 28 June kidnapping
Carols in the Park returns to Jack Muller
The festive spirit arrives in full song this week as families, friends, and neighbours gather for the much-loved Carols in the Park celebration at Jack Muller Park. The free community event takes place on Friday 6 December, with gates opening at 18:30 and the carols beginning at 19:00
This annual favourite invites Capetonians to soak up the warm, joyful atmosphere of the season under the night sky With Christmas lights twinkling, familiar melodies filling the air, and the park buzzing with festive cheer, it promises to be an evening of togetherness and tradition.
Attendees are encouraged to bring along blankets, a picnic basket and their favourite people to enjoy a relaxed night of music and celebration Whether you’re kickstarting your festive season or continuing a family ritual, Carols in the Park offers a welcoming space for all ages to join in the magic of Christmas.
Best of all entry is completely free, making it the perfect budget-friendly way to celebrate the spirit of the season.
Two killed in aircraft crash
KAILINDANIELS
KAILIN DANIELS@NOVUSMEDIA CO ZA
COURT DENIES ACCUSED ACCESS TO MITCHELL’S PLAIN BUT ALLOWS DELFT SIGN-IN
“The accused has a history of using false identities and could exert influence on witnesses,” the prosecutor argued during the bail amendment hearing
Jacobs’ team sought the following key ammendments to her bail conditions
. Permission to sign in at Delft police station instead of Kleinvlei
. Access to Mitchell’s Plain to handle property matters and collect belongings
The magistrate approved the first request, recognising the convenience for the accused, but denied access to Mitchell’s Plain due to insufficient justification and potential risks to the community
The prosecutor raised several concerns about relaxing bail conditions, particularly regarding Mitchell’s Plain access, including risk of witness interference , community objections to her presence, a lack of submitted prior conviction records and her potential influence on witnesses in the area
The baby was eventually recovered from an address in Tafelsig, Mitchell’s Plain, after a two-day manhunt involving multiple police units
LEGALPRECEDENTQUESTIONS
The pardah verification requirement raises complex questions about balancing religious rights with security needs in the justice system Islamic scholars and civil rights advocates may question whether such measures constitute religious
Two people were killed on Sunday afternoon (30 November) when a Sling 2 aircraft crashed shortly after take-off from Morningstar Airfield near Vissershok in Cape Town The South African Civil Aviation Authority’s Accidents and Incidents Investigations Division (AIID) has confirmed it has launched a full investigation into the fatal accident
According to the AIID, the aircraft departed at approximately 11:00 with a flight instructor and a private licence holder on board Moments later, it crashed, leaving both occupants fatally injured and the aircraft substantially damaged
At the time of print on Tuesday, police had not yet released the names of the deceased, pending formal notification of their families
EMERGENCYSERVICESRUSHTOSCENE
Police spokesperson Capt FC van Wyk confirmed that emergency services responded swiftly to the scene
“This office can confirm a fatal airplane crash on Sunday, at about 12:40 at Vissershok airfield, Philadelphia The two occupants died due to injuries sustained,” he said
Philadelphia police have since registered an inquest case, which will run alongside the aviation investigation
MOTORISTSDESCRIBESHOCK
Neville du Plessis, a motorist driving on the N7 towards Cape Town told TygerBurger: “I was driving past the Morningstar area when I saw smoke rising and emergency vehicles rushing in At first, I thought it was a veld fire, but when I realised it was an aircraft down, my heart sank It’s devastating to know that two people lost their lives My thoughts
are with their families ” Motorist Angie Human said she was a few cars behind when traffic slowed near Vissershok
"We could see responders working urgently in the distance Even without knowing the details, you could feel something serious had happened Hearing now that both occupants died is truly heartbreaking It’s a sad day for the aviation community and for everyone who passed by ”
AIID investigators have been dispatched to the site, and a preliminary report is expected to be published within 30 days on the SACAA website
The division has extended its condolences to the families and friends of the deceased
Nine-day-old Mogamat Imaad Sharmar was safely recovered and reunited with his family after a twoday police manhunt following his kidnapping from Bellville
The crash site visible from a distance as police and paramedics take control of the scene
The Sling 2 aircraft was completely wrecked after crashing shortly after take-off. PHOTO: AVIATION SPOTTER SA
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
K9 Unit sniffs out drugs at shopping centre
A routine license plate recognition alert led to the arrest of a suspect on drug possession charges at Okavango Crossing Centre on Sunday night
At around 22:05, officers from SJC private security’s tactical team responded to an alert for a vehicle linked to drug-related activity The two officers quickly located the vehicle, blocked it from leaving, and instructed the driver to exit
“An initial search was conducted with no narcotics found Once our K9 unit arrived their trained narcotics dog alerted on the passenger side, where the marijuana was discovered,” SJC Security stated
The search was extended after further checks revealed WhatsApp messages referencing cocaine and ecstasy on the suspect’s device Officers then discovered a hidden sock behind the dashboard containing seven grams of cocaine and six ecstasy tablets The suspect was arrested for possession of illegal narcotics
A total of R3 100 in cash was also confiscated during the operation
All evidence and the suspect were handed over to police for further processing, according to SJC
Police comment was sought by TygerBurger but at the time of publication the incident could not be confirmed by the local police spokesperson
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
FROMPAGE1
Local people question whether the airport expansion is actually needed
They say claims about fuel savings, reduced carbon emissions and economic benefits are not backed up by evidence
Residents argue the location near homes and schools is completely unsuitable They also worry about increased traffic congestion and strain on local roads and infrastructure
NOISEWILLEXCEEDSAFELEVELS
The school community of Fisantekraal High School has raised serious concerns about noise pollution Fisantekraal High School is situated just 1 4km from the proposed airport site
Objectors say constant aircraft noise will harm children’s health and damage their ability to study They argue the noise levels will exceed safe limits and affect learners’ emotional wellbeing and academic performance
The school community also worries about the broader health impacts on local residents
They claim people were not properly informed about the negative health effects during the planning process
Several aviation businesses
Cape Town Flight Training Centre, Diepkloof Aircraft Maintenance, 4 Aviators, Helivate Helicopter Services and WCMS CC trading as AeroSport, represented by the legal firm Richard Summers Incorporated, fear the airport expansion will disrupt their operations during construction
They say they might have to move temporarily to undeveloped or distant sites, which could
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
force them out of business
The companies worry there is no binding agreement with airport developers to protect their interests
They also claim the environmental impact study failed to properly assess how the expansion would affect their businesses financially
IMPACTONCHICKENS
County Fair poultry farming operation, represented by Edward Nathan Sonnenberg, objects to the impact on their farm They worry about noise disturbing their chickens and air pollution affecting operations
County Fair strongly opposes clearing critically endangered local plants and the damage to wildlife, particularly birds They say the environmental study should have looked at alternative airport locations that would cause less environmental damage
AIRSPACESAFETY
The Stellenbosch Flying Club, represented by Derek Johan Lord, stated that the flying club has concerns about airspace safety
They worry about how the new airport will affect flight paths and instrument flight rules
The club says the expansion will harm general aviation operations and make flying less safe
They also claim that safety measures agreed during consultation meetings were left out of the final environmental permission
Morningstar Flying Club, also represented by Richard Summers Incorporated, shares concerns about airspace safety and the impact on general aviation
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!”
They say the aviation community was not properly consulted and that their concerns were ignored
CONCERNSABOUTWILDLIFE
Environmental campaigners, including those representing Birdlife South Africa interests, have major concerns about wildlife
The Durbanville area is a natural bird sanctuary with many water sources that attract birds They say this creates a serious risk of bird strikes with aircraft
Conservationists object to destroying over 300m² of critically endangered local plants They say this goes against international environmental protection rules
The groups worry about threats to endangered bird species, including South Africa’s national bird, the blue crane
They say proposed solutions like culling birds or destroying their habitat are cruel and unacceptable
Also the Paardeberg Conservancy worries about flight paths affecting their protected area
They say the airport development threatens local wildlife and undermines conservation work in the region
WINEINDUSTRY
The Western Cape wine industry has concerns about the airport affecting agricultural land and farming operations
They worry about the impact on the region’s important winemaking economy
Industry representatives point out that the airport would produce an estimated 5 3m tonnes of carbon dioxide by
2050 equivalent to a small city’s annual emissions
They say this threatens sustainability goals and could harm the wine industry’s longterm future
COMMONOBJECTIONS
Nearly all objectors mention destruction of endangered plants, threats to birdlife and unsustainable carbon emissions
Groups representing local communities highlights aircraft noise as a major problem, particularly for schools and residential areas
Many objectors say the environmental study was biased, incomplete, or failed to consider better alternative locations They claim the public was not properly consulted
SAFETYCONCERNS
Aviation groups and local residents worry about airspace congestion, bird strikes and the airport’s proximity to mountains and Cape Town International Airport
Business groups and farmers fear negative effects on their operations, while residents question whether the promised economic benefits are real
The objectors want the environmental permission cancelled
They call for the airport to be relocated to a more suitable site away from homes, schools and environmentally sensitive areas
Some suggest developing only the eastern part of the site to reduce impacts
The appeals highlight deep divisions over the project, with supporters arguing it will boost the local economy while opponents say the environmental and social costs are too high
Tammy Claasen
Christmasandcraftsatmarket
Join the crafters and charities for a magical evening at the traditional annual Gypsy Night Market presented by the Durbanville Craft Market on Friday 5 December
The market will be presented from 17:00 to 21:00 at 5 Louw Street, corner Louw and Hafele street, Durbanville (behind the Durbanville Police Station) weather permitting
The best-dressed “gypsy” visitor can win a R300 shopping voucher to redeem at the market The winner will be announced at 19:30
Entertainment at the market will include belly dancing by Jacqui from the Amirah Dance Company, whereafter everybody will be invited to join for a free fun belly dancing session at 18:30
Live music wil be supplied by Gerry Fourie from PappaJer Promotions Wing Chun martial art demonstrations will be presented by John Giot throughout the
THE BEST DRESSED ‘GYPSY’ VISITOR CAN WIN A PRIZE
evening
Browse through the stalls for handmade gifts, have a meal at one of the food stalls or support the charity fundraising efforts by the charities
Fisantekraal Animal Welfare with preloved treasures and Capetonians Against Animal Abuse with all things cats will also be at the market
The market is a charity market, presenting the events in order to support charities and help cash strapped crafters with minimum stall fees of only R100 All fees are donated to welfare
Entrance is free and pets are absolutely welcome
. Contact Durbanville Craft Market on 066 059 7251 or durbanvillecraftmarket@gmail.com
Brightly-coloured clothes were sold last year
Festive magic takes centre stage at CapeGate Shopping
CapeGate Shopping Centre is gearing up for a spirited festive season with a line-up designed to draw families, fitness fans and holiday shoppers into a lively world of entertainment and community fun From energetic workouts to ice-skating magic and an impressive outdoor market, the centre is setting the scene for a memorable holiday period
The festive season at CapeGate has been shaped to bring families together in ways that feel light and enjoyable Zoë Enslin, the centre’s marketing manager, says the team wanted to create experiences that make the holidays feel a little more relaxed and meaningful
CELEBRATIONS
The celebrations began with CapeGate’s Fit Club Designed for those who love an upbeat workout, the morning includes a 45-minute Zumba class followed by a 45-minute pilates session
The experience is priced at just R50 (book yours via Webtickets) and supported by Virgin Active and Kauai, with each participant receiving a smoothie voucher to enjoy after the workout
From 21 November to 24 December, the Outdoor Festive Market will fill the centre’s exterior with music, lights and an extensive showcase of local craftsmanship
The market features 380 vendors offering handmade items, traditional festive décor, thoughtful gifts and a gift-wrapping station for finishing touches
Entry to the market is free and trading hours align with the centre’s trading schedule
GOINGINTERNATIONAL
The CapeGate Outdoor Festive Market has also captured international attention, with Travel Noire naming it one of the best Christmas markets in the world in its list of standout global festive destinations
A seasonal favourite makes its return from 5 December until 11 January with the CapeGate Ice Rink inspired by Disney
Open daily from 10:00 to 20:00, the rink offers 50-minute skating sessions for R70, including skate hire
CHILDRENAREWELCOME
Children aged 3 to 13 are welcome, with parents able to assist on the ice at the standard rate
Friendly rink staff will be available to guide young skaters, making it an ideal family outing The rink will be closed on 25 December and 1 January
. For more information about all the exciting CapeGate Shopping Centre news, visit the website.
Dream catchers were sold at last years’s market
A Christmas atmosphere is to be expected at the market
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 at 16:00
Holiday full of fun at Durbanville library
Durbanville Library is celebrating the school holidays with a wonderful Christmas display in the library along with hosting a holiday programme
The fun will start on Monday 1 December at 10:00 with a reading challenge for children up to 12 years and the programme will run through to 8 January
The activities that will be presented includes story times, a dog show, cookie decoration, letters or cards to Santa and back-to-school arts and crafts
PACKEDPROGRAMME
Among the highlights are a dog show on Thursday 11 December at 10:00, starring the talented Tango and his trainer, Jo On Monday 15 December children can decorate Christmas cookies from 10:00
All children who took part in the 1000 Stories before School programme can return their completed booklets to the library and be included in the certificate M d 15 D b
DOn Friday 19 December from 10:00 children can write letters to Santa On Saturday from 10:00 is the last meeting for the Brick Club
The programme this year ends with a storytime on Wednesday 24 December from 10:00
It restarted in the new year on Tuesday 6 January with another cookie decoration session from 10:00 and on Thursday 8 January an arts and crafts session from 10:00
The programme ends with a certificate ceremony for all the bookworms who took part in the Bingo reading programme on Friday 30 January at 15:00
There will also be a fine-free week for juniors and teens (0 to 17 years) during the week of 15 to 20 December
All programmes are free of charge, but booking is essential
. Contact the library on 021 444 7070/1 or durbanville.library@capetown.gov.za for more inf tio
Cure Day Hospitals Bellville recently celebrated their 10 year anniversary at a Gala Dinner on 15 November, marking a decade of dedication,surgical innovation,and community service Seen at the Gala Dinner are,from left,Sorita van Tonder (group marketing manager),Melissa Abrahams (marketing and PR manager),Nicola van der Westhuizen (chief operating officer),Bert von Wielligh (chief executive officer) and Ezette van Brakel (hospital manager)
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
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
the city’s festive lights.Thousands of Capetonians United in Hope
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