Issue 175 - FREE
11 May 2018
Community News. Original - accurate - first
017 631 1903 / 017 631 1845 • admin@thebulletin.co.za • 1 Kiewiet Street, Secunda (Lake Umuzi)
Trouble in paradise Nine ANC ward councillors held a press conference at the eMbalenhle Public Library on Wednesday 2 May 2018. During the gathering, they expressed immense dissatisfaction at the functioning of Govan Mbeki Municipality, and their resulting decision to withdraw from municipal activities. This comes after a meeting with the Executive Council of Govan Mbeki on 17 April was unproductive. Remembering the day, councillor John Nkosi of Ward 31 said that “they were so arrogant.” The meeting was meant to address the issue of poor service delivery in Govan Mbeki, as well as touch on the unique
challenges faced by ward councillors. “Instead,” said Councillor Nkosi, “they continuously asked us what the status of that meeting was, and went on to say that we were not allowed to call a meeting with them without following the correct procedure.” The councillors alleged that when they asked what procedure this was, they were told that they should approach the office of the speaker first to request a meeting with the mayor, as he is in charge of the councillors. The meeting was reportedly unfruitful, and members of the executive committee left without having discussed what was intended for discussion.
Had the meeting gone according to plan, Nkosi explained, then the councillors would have brought forth the major issues of the electricity schedule and interruptions thereof, sewer spillages in eMbalenhle, waste removal backlogs, the poor condition of roads, land audit and evictions, as well as the state of the local cemetery, amongst others. These frustrations were voiced in a meeting with Nhlakanipho Zuma, speaker of the executive council, in a meeting the following day. Upon suggestion that this be taken to an approaching council meeting, the nine ward councillors refused. “We are not going to attend any council meeting
until the problem of service delivery is solved,” Nkosi said on Wednesday. “We didn’t come to a conclusion about when service delivery would be discussed,” he went on. The councillors are also baffled by the municipality’s lack of prioritisation. “The replacement of service delivery trucks [22 of which were lost during the first Eskom riots in eMbalenhle] with bakkies doesn’t make sense to us. The township’s most serious needs should have been prioritised,” said Douglas Mahlangu, councillor of Ward 7. It was further stated that the executive committee has a tendency to hold meetings with the ward councillors simply for the sake of compliance, but that they had no intention to improve the state of Govan Mbeki Municipality. “We hold these meetings but nothing ever changes, we are only there to put a rubber stamp on a piece of paper,” said Mahlangu. Drawing on Thandi Ngxonono’s previous portfolios in Planning and Development, as well as Finance, the nine councillors conceded that she could not and would not ever deliver or cater to the needs of the community. Whether she is simply incapable or unwilling to do so is yet to be found out. “The majority of the community of eMbalenhle are paying for service delivery, yet when it is time to do the actual delivering, they are the first to be overlooked and sidelined,” said Councillor Mahlangu. As such, the ward councillors will remain withdrawn from the activities of the council until their voices are heard, and above all, taken seriously. - Rori Rathebe
NEWS
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11 May 2018
Duo appear in court for conspiracy to commit murder Susara Elsie Burger and Johannes Hendrik Robert Jacobs appeared in Nelspruit Magistrate`s Court on Thursday 3 May, after they were arrested by members of Nelspruit Serious Organised Crime Investigation Unit on 12 March and were released on R1 500 bail each. On 5 February 2018 Elsie allegedly colluded with Jacobs to assassinate her husband.
Jacobs hired a hit man whom she met around Nelspruit. The hitman, who was offered R15 000 to carry out the crime, reported the matter to the Hawks and a sting operation was conducted which lead to the arrest of the pair. The case has been postponed to 6 June for Regional Court date. The Acting-Provincial Head of Mpumalanga Directorate for Priority
Crime Investigation Brigadier, Obed Ngwenya, would like to thank the whistleblowers who keep on giving information and also encourage others who have information about criminal activities which is taking place in their vicinity to report it. “Our investigators always follow-up on information provided to make sure that perpetrators are brought to book,” he concluded”.
Accidents are a huge concern
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Multiple accidents happened over the past week, some of which were lifethreatening. No matter the severity of these impacts, drivers need to take more care on the roads and consider those around them by abiding by the rules of our roads. The Bulletin’s Facebook page has been inundated with comments from our readers raising concerns regarding accidents. Wednesday - An accident occurred at the junction between Goudini and Langkloof streets. No injuries were reported. The junction is an accident waiting to happen and now it has. People driving in Langkloof from the South enter the intersection very suddenly and do not have a lot of time to react. A stop street is urgently needed at this intersection (Langkloof). On the same day, there was an accident in the traffic circle just outside Secunda Mall. See article on page 7. Thursday - The Brendan village turn off
on the R546 was the scene of another serious accident. Witnesses state that an Opel Corsa with five occupants turned into the oncoming traffic, causing a taxi to collide with it. These witness reports are still unconfirmed as the police have not released a statement yet. All five occupants of the Opel sustained injuries, two of which were serious. One young boy (13) was fatally injured and passed away around 16h30 the same day. The taxi driver was also slightly injured. GMM emergency services used the jaws of life to free the occupants of the Opel. Langamed, ER24, Sectri Auto Body, Car Doctor, Provincial EMS, GMM fire services, Stratcon, SAPS and Jelani Security responded to the scene. Friday - An accident occurred early in the morning at the P185/Evander/ Secunda four-way stop. A Ford Ranger and a VW Passat collided at the intersection. This caused the Passat to hit a stationary Opel Corsa at the stop. Two moderate to serious injuries. Langamed transported the injured. Jelani Security, Stratcon and GMM EMS attended the scene. Sectri Autobody and Car doctor recovered some of the vehicles. Saturday - A pedestrian was fatally injured on Saturday night when he was
hit by a car on the Embalenhle/Evander road. “I only saw him when it was too late,” said the driver of the car. “I could not even swerve.” The police were on the scene and are still investigating the accident. No official reports have been released by the police. It is alleged that the deceased was one of the illegal miners that operate in the area but it could not be confirmed. Illegal miners frequent the area which is renowned for the illegal mining activities. Near Mandla Tavern in Evander, the driver of a Ford Figo lost control over his vehicle and rolled down the embankment when he swerved to avoid hitting a car turning without indicators (unconfirmed). The two occupants of the Figo sustained injuries, one serious. Both were transported by provincial EMS. Sunday - A head-on collision occurred in the early hours of Sunday morning on the Evander/Embalenhle road. One person sustained light injuries and was transported to the hospital by ER24. It is alleged that a white vehicle had been standing on the road for some time. Langamed, The EMS Chaplain, Sectri Auto Body, Jelani, SAPS and GMM fire services also responded to the scene.
NEWS
11 May 2018
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A visibly upset Mrs Koekie Barnard being consoled by Christene Schoombie of Davies Hof and Siyathemba of Langamed
The aftermath of the fire
Fire at Davies Court Panic ensued when a fire broke out at Davies Court on Saturday morning. Mr Koos and Mrs Koekie Barnard were awoken by one of their grandchildren who alerted them to the fire. The fire started in the living room, where the children were sleeping. When Koos entered the living room he found that the flames have already spread to the two couches. Louise heard the cries of Koekie and rushed to the scene. Engela Janse van Rensburg phoned Christene Schoonbee (Davies Hof Sentrum). Bettie Human also phoned and Christene instructed them to use the fire hose. She also told them to evacuate the top floor. Johan Human then grabbed the hose and helped extinguish the fire. Paul Matthysen used a fire extinguisher. It was the quick reaction and thinking of the neighbours that saved everybody. On arrival, the Bulletin found Koos covered in soot and Koekie in shock. Christene Schoombie and the Langamed personnel did a wonderful job of calming Koekie and everybody
else. Koos ran back into the flat to save the children. Fortunately, no one was injured. The flat had extensive smoke damage and some fire damage. The Bulletin posted the news of the fire shortly thereafter, pleading for help in getting the flat restored. The response from some members of the public was overwhelming. Roman Alarms were the first to respond and they offered paint and a painter. The AfriForum Youth then responded with a team of people to start renovating the flat. They also arranged new furniture, carpets and other items. Secunda Angels and CPF Sector 3 also delivered items. A number of people offered curtains etc. The AfriForum Youth have worked non-stop over the weekend to try and gain some time. They have dubbed this project “Afrijeug home make-over”. Thank you to everyone that contributed and responded so quickly. The Bulletin hopes to thank everyone individually in the next publication.
Afrijeug cleaning the flat
Davies Hof Sentrum, as well as the residents of Davies Court, would also like to thank everyone for their quick response, everyone that contributed and especially Jan du Plessis and his youth team from AfriForum. During the Davies Hof AGM earlier this year, it became clear that the municipality is not maintaining the buildings as they should. Repairs are nearly always done by benefactors or residents themselves. The current financial status of GMM also doesn’t help in providing maintenance. This necessitated the need to ask members of the public to provide any help in restoring the flat to a livable condition. It also became clear in the AGM that GMM has no evacuation plan in place in case of such an emergency. They also don’t have an emergency plan should any other disaster occur. The Bulletin has asked members present at the Davies Hof AGM and no one could provide such plans, bearing in mind that it is not the responsibility of Davies Hof to provide such plans.
Davies Hof is also not responsible for the maintenance or management of Davies Court. If the fire broke out at ground level, a totally different situation could have played out, one that could have been disastrous.
WHAT’S UP/News
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So is die lewe
• 017 631 1903 • 017 631 1845 Wie is ons / Who are we: Redaksie / Editorial 017 631 1903
Encee van Huyssteen 082 554 7589 encee@thebulletin.co.za admin@thebulletin.co.za Rori Rathebe 084 481 6684 rorisang@thebulletin.co.za
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Distribution: We pride ourselves in delivering a Bulletin to businesses in Secunda, Trichardt, Evander and Bethal and Kriel. We also distribute additional copies to several points of business in Kinross and eMbalenhle. Should you have a delivery enquiry or complaint, send us an email containing your name, contact details and home address to admin@thebulletin. co.za. COPYRIGHT All rights of reproduction of all reports, photographs, drawings and other materials are hereby expressively reserved in terms of section 12 (7) of the Copyright Act No 96 of 1978 and any amendments thereof. Banking details: The Bulletin Absa RBB Commercial Secunda Branch code: 637256 Account number: 408 499 2285 Checque /Current account
Ds Marius Britz Kom ek toe mos by oom Piet en tannie Marie aan vir huisbesoek. “Kom sit, kom sit!” nooi hy my gul uit. “Marie! Mariaaaa!” roep hy agtertoe. “Bring vir my en dominies koffie.” En in dieselfde asem gaan hy aan: “Jong, dis jammer die ou winkeltjie het nie meer Raadsaalkoffie nie. Man, daai was nou vir jou lekker koffie. Ou Saar het mos al die jare die winkel gehad. Voordat hulle Warmbad toe getrek het na die ouetehuis toe. Daar waar die runderpes so gemors het onder die boere se vee. Baie van hulle het toe maar opgegee en in die stede gaan werk. My een ou vriend het sy plaas gelos en in die myn gaan werk. Hy het vertel die rotte ondergronds is so groot soos katte. Omdat al die myners hulle so gevoer het met die jêmtoebroodjies wat hulle vrouens vir hulle ingesit het elke dag, en waarvoor hulle naderhand so opversadig was. Maar daar is darem niks soos druiwekonfyt nie. Sulke lekker hanepootdruiwe. Hulle pluk dit daar in die Kaap in. Die wind waai mos so verskriklik daar. Ek het gehoor dat die wind een dag so erg was dat dit ‘n ou se valstande tot in die see gewaai het. En drie maande later het ‘n skuit op die weskus hierdie snoek gevang met net sulke tande soos ‘n mens. En dit was toe al die tyd daai ou s’n wat deur die wind weggewaai is. Die een skipper het toe juis ‘n stel botande gekort, en het dit toe sommer met sy vismes gemaak pas in sy mond. Die skipper het daar in Velddrif gebly. Hy kon maar lekker vat as hy die slag dors geraak het. En een aand toe hy weer so rumoerig raak, bel sy vrou die poelieste. Toe hulle aan die deur klop, skreeu hy: wiesa? Die Suid Afrikaanse Polisie, sê hulle toe. Nou ma’ wa’ is Velleghif se poelieste dan vanaand? Vra hy toe. Hy was ‘n sterke derduiwel, daai skipper. Een Saterdagmiddag,
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Proverbs 18:10
The name of the LORD is a fortified tower; the righteous run to it and are safe.
11 May 2018
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toe sy vrou vêr was met die vyfde kind, sê sy mos vir hom dis nou sulke tyd. Hospitaal toe. Baba is op pad. Hy jaag op daai St. Helenabaaigrondpad met ‘n stink spoed met sy Valiant. En toe kom daar ‘n donkiekar van voor af, in die middel van die pad, met twee vrolike passasiers. Hy stop toe die Valiant, breek die teuels van die donkies af, en jaag hulle die veld in. Toe gooi hy die twee passasiers af, en lig die donkiekar op en gooi hom wragtig oor die draad. Die boer van die plaas sien toe die vreemde donkies wat water soek op die werf. Ordentlike donkies. Toe hy bietjie navraag doen, kom hy agter die donkies stam af van die donkie waarmee Jesus Jerusalem binnegery het. Hy verkoop hulle toe, en maak genoeg om vir hom ‘n nuwe windpomp op te sit. Daar waar hy en sy buurman een dag stry gekry het oor ‘n bobbejaanspênner. En hy verêrre hom so, dat hy nooit weer sy voete in die nagmaal gesit het nie. Maar die buurman hou aan nagmaal toe gaan.
Nogals ouderling en als. Tot hy een dag tydens nagmaal op sy perd die kerk binne ry, voor die ouderlingsbank stop, en sy buurman uit die bank pluk en voor hom op die perd gooi. Nou wou hy nie lelik praat voor die gemeente nie, toe sê hy: Jou raaia se riepa se roera. Wat soek jy hier! Ook maar goed die buurman was bietjies doof, en kon nie mooi hoor hoe hy uitgeskel word nie. Oudominees het mos eendag vir hom gesê: ons twee word ook maar oud. Hy antwoord toe: ja, veral die tyd van die jaar as die wind so waai.” Oom Piet klap sy broek se sakke, en soek sy pyp en twak. Ek besluit ek sal vinnig die paar oomblikke stilte gebruik om te vra hoe dit gaan, maar hy spring my voor. Tussen die dampe deur, sê hy: “Ja, en daar lees ek toe Min Shaw en Gerard Viviers was broer en suster. Maar hulle het dit al die jare geheim gehou. Spiekeries was baie bekend. Behalwe daai keer toe die een ou wat so effens onder die dop was, vir hom gesê het:
ou Fanus, ek is so bly jy is ook hier. Fanus Rautenbach het mos so lekker program op die radio gehad. Flink uit die vere. Ons op die hoogte gehou van alles. Selfs die verkeer. Ek onthou, ons het nog in Pretoria gebly. Dan bel die mense in die oggende in en vertel van al die verkeersprobleme. Die een tannie het uitasem ingebel en gesê al die fans in die Daspoortonnel is buite werking. Toe sê Fanus: ja, al die fêns is na ‘n Bles Bridges konsert toe.” Gie-gie-gie, lag oom Piet. “Jong, hierdie twak is bietjie sterk vir my. Ek hoor daar is duwweltjies in, amper soos in ‘n pynappel. Dis wat mens so laat hoes. Daardie duwweltjies steek in jou longpype vas. Dis omdat hulle die goed nie mooi sif as dit op die lande gesny word nie. En dis – hoes – hoekom – hoes- dit sulke kragtige goed is.” Sê oom Piet. En toe sê hy: “Dominies, jy is nou al ‘n halfuur hier, en ek het nog nie eers vir jou gevra of jy wil koffie hê nie. Ek het nog so baie te vertel. Maar jy praat aanmekaar!”
Bouwer’s “lekkerste” show On Friday, 4 May, Bouwer Bosch performed at a crowded Eish!! The fans came in early to enjoy an Eish!! pizza and something to drink. The deck was packed with jovial fans cheering to Bouwers’ songs. The food, drinks and music complimented each other in what became a very enjoyable evening. The cold weather did not prevent anyone from having a good time. A bonfire was lit and it was frequented by nearly everyone. Bosch told Lake Umuzi’s marketer, Rolin Booysen, that “it was one of his ‘lekkerste’ shows yet”. This was the first performance to kick off his May tour. The tour was unofficially dubbed his “Cape Tour” even though the first two performances took
11 May 2018
Werner goes survivor mode “Outwit, outlast and outplay�. This is the Survivor slogan and for those of you who missed the first episode which aired on DStv channel 101 on Thursday night you sure missed an entertaining show. Werner Joubert (34), a Pastor and Biokineticts from Secunda and member of the blue team kept locals entertained with his first appearance on the reality show. In case you missed it (spoiler alert), the show started off where both teams (blue and red) had to get as much survival items onto a raft and make their way to the island where they had to compete in their first challenge. Werner and his blue team were victorious in this first round. Upon entering the camp for the first time, it was clear that there were strategies from the word go. Team mate Tevin Naidu (24), a Doctor from Durban, started his strategy by telling other team mates that Marthunis Oosthuizen (29), an Investment Advisor also from Durban, had put something in his pocket before getting onto the raft and this got team mates thinking it was a clue to the hidden immunity. This in the meantime gave our local, Werner, the chance to go search for the real immunity clue and behold, he found it! Both blue and red teams had their first team immunity challenge. It was a neck and neck race until local Werner had a bit of a struggle untying knots, giving the red team the lead. But Werner persevered and made his way to the rest of his team mates to finish off the challenge. The blue team won their first immunity challenge, sending the red team to the elimination round. Back at the blue camp, Werner became worried when he heard that team mates had searched Marthunis’s bag hoping that he may have the clue to the hidden immunity. This made Werner realize that he needed to get rid of the evidence which had the clue to the hidden immunity. So how did Werner get rid of his evidence? Yes readers, he dabbed the paper with the clue on it in the sea and in order to get rid of the evidence he then ate the paper. The question remains, will Werner find the hidden immunity? And just how far will our Secunda man go? You will have to wait and see. Survivor South Africa, Philippiens airs on Thursdays, at 7pm on DStv channel 101.
SPORT News
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News
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11 May 2018
SA Women: An endangered species? The conversation of femicide in South Africa is more relevant than ever. The communities of Evander and surrounds are rattled the news of a murder-suicide that took place so close to home. A man shooting his wife, child and himself is the stuff of movies… Right? Yet, at about 07:30 on Thursday, 3 May 2018, police on duty received a call from neighbours of a family of three regarding a possible suicide at Leopard Tree Place, an apartment complex in the sleepy town of Evander. On arrival, police found the flat locked, with no one responding to their calling out and knocking. Sensing an eerie problem and a matter of urgency, they climbed up a ladder, entering the unit through its top window. Police were met with the gorey scene of an African woman lying on a bed, a man slumped over her, and a baby girl lying lifeless beside her. All three family members were shot and certified dead by paramedics on the scene. A firearm registered in the name of Wonder Nkosi, aged 31, was lying on the floor next to the man, who police have identified as the suspect. It is alleged that the man shot his wife and child, and then himself with a 9mm pistol. The woman was shot in the neck at close range, the baby was shot in the chest at close range and it is believed that the suspect then shot himself in the head. Three cartridges were found on the scene. This news arrived on the same day that Sandile Mantsoe, who coincedentally grew up in eMbalenhle and went to
school in Secunda, was sentenced to an effective 32 years in prison by the South Gauteng High Court for the assault, murder and burning of the body of Karabo Mokoena, a woman he was in a romantic relationship with. In the same week, Zolile Khumalo, a first-year student at Mangosuthu University of Technology, was allegedly shot dead by an ex-student at a student residence in Durban. Reports say 21-year-old Khumalo tried to break up with the ex-boyfriend, and when she was killed, she had been avoiding him for two weeks. We needn’t go back to mention the names of Reeva Steenkamp or Amanda Tweyi because the matter is quite clear:
South African women are killed by their partners at an alarming rate. Intimate femicide is defined as the murder of women by their “current or ex-husband or boyfriend, same-sex partner or a rejected would-be lover”. In South Africa, the femicide rate is 5 times higher than the global rate, with one woman being murdered every 4 hours, and one every 8 hours by an intimate partner. That’s 8 femicides a day, and half in the bounds of romantic relationships. These statistics come from autopsy data from a 2009 study (by researchers from the South African Medical Research Council’s Gender and Health Research Unit) of women aged 14
years and older from mortuaries across the country, along with interviews with police investigators to verify the cause of death and identify relationships with perpetrators. While social media floods with condolences and heartbreak over this week’s devastating incident in Evander, being a woman looks to be more and more of an extreme sport in South Africa. Murder is no longer a violation that is only expected from a stranger in a dark alley, but a very real occurrence in the homes and arms that women expect safety and protection from. Considering the facts and stats, are South African women our newest endangered species? - Rori Rathebe
National bus strike enters another week The national bus strike negotiations collapsed again last week with both sides standing firm in their demands. South African Transport and Allied Workers Union (Satawu) confirmed that a new offer has been put on the bargaining table in an attempt to end the national strike in the sector. The Bargaining Council and the CCMA have proposed an offer of 8.75% for the first year and 8.25 % for the second. Satawu’s Zanele Sabela said unions are currently consulting their members about the new offer. “The Bargaining Council and the CCMA have put an offer on the table in an attempt to break the stalemate. The unions are considering the offer and will let the public know in due course.” Mega Bus, which operates most of the busses in the GMM area, was not immune to the strike action. The company could make plans initially
to service the commuters but it has become increasingly difficult to do so. Attempts have also been made to torch vehicles belonging to Mega Bus. One bus was set alight but the company managed to extinguish the
fire promptly. Another bus was found to have been doused with petrol and just needed to be set alight. Someone managed to set fire to a bakkie belonging to Mega Bus and the bakkie was destroyed in the fire.
PROPERTIES eiendomme TRMC fondsinsameling vir Bianca TO ADVERTISE CALL 017 631 1903 • 017 631 1845
Bianca Fourie, ‘n dogter van H/S Oosterland het ‘n baie ernstige toestand, genaamd Skoliose, dit belemer haar asemhalingstelsel geweldig. Dit kan lewensgevaarlik word. Die enigste manier om haar te help/red, is ‘n operasie. Ongelukkig kos die operasie ongeveer R 700 000. TRMC het besluit om te help en het toe begin planne maak. ‘n Barhmartige samaritaan het vir ‘n splinter nuwe 30 – 40 cc Sbach vliegtuig (sonder motor) met servo’s geskenk. Waarde van die vliegtuig is tussen R 6 000 en R 8 000. Looitjies word verkoop teen R100 elk (of veelvoude van R100.) Looitjie aankope kan gedoen deur kontant aankope of deur inbetalings
in TRMC se bank rekening. Die verwysings op die inbetalings moet lees “Bianca”. Bewyse moet dan aan Herman Barnard by hbarnard@gst-guduza.co.za gestuur word. Bank besonderhede is as volg: Teksa Radio Control Club, ABSA Spaar rekening, Rekening nommer is 9103780720 Die lootjies vir bankbetalings sal “oop” wees tot en met Dinsdag 22 Mei 2018 om 12:00. Inbetaling moet voor dan gedoen word. Daarna sal slegs kontant lootjies verkoop word tot en met Donderdag 24 Mei wanneer TRMC die trekking sal doen by ‘n spesiale fondsinsamelings funksie gereel deur H/S Oosterland/ Oregon Spur/John Dory’sPanarotti’s.
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SPORT NEWS
11 May 2018
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The dreadful roundabout Even for an experienced driver, a roundabout (or traffic circle) can be a daunting obstacle on the road. An unfortunate incident occurred just outside Secunda Mall on the afternoon of 2 May 2018 when the driver of a Ford Figo in the inner (right) lane of a circle attempted to exit to the left, and collided with a Ford Ranger that was proceeding straight on in the outer (left) lane. Thankfully, no injuries or fatalities were suffered, but there was a lot of damage done, so to help you avoid a similar situation, the Bulletin has put together a reminder of the ins and outs of roundabouts. Although they can seem like a headache, traffic circles actually have their advantages: they calm traffic, they can reduce the angle of head-on collisions (as in the case above), they reduce the overall severity of a crash, they improve the capacity of intersections and lastly, they add an appealing aesthetic to the often bland infrastructure of towns and cities. The following tips are courtesy of Arrive Alive: Approaching a roundabout:
• On approaching a roundabout take notice and act on all the information available to you, including traffic signs, traffic lights and lane markings which direct you into the correct lane. • A roundabout is designed to be driven at low speed. Entering and traveling through a roundabout at higher speed is difficult and could be unsafe. • As you enter the roundabout, traffic coming from your right has right of way. This means that traffic streaming into the roundabout from the entrance to your right will keep coming as long as no one is coming from their right. • These cars may not even slow down as they enter the roundabout, because they have the right of way. You must stop and wait until there is a break in traffic. Watch out for other traffic in the roundabout • Always keep an eye on the vehicle in front as you're about to emerge. Don't assume the driver won't have to stop while you're still looking right. Many rear end collisions happen this way. Make sure the vehicle has actually moved away. • Signal your intent to other
drivers when entering, going around and exiting the circle. • If you miss your turn, just go around again. Avoid swerving at the last minute. To Turn Left (taking the first exit) • signal left and approach in the left-hand lane • keep to the left on the roundabout and continue signaling left to leave. To go straight on (taking the second exit) • select the appropriate lane on approach to and on the roundabout. If no marking on the road it is usually safest to keep to the left lane • stay in this lane until you need to alter course to exit the roundabout • signal left after you have passed the exit before the one you want. To Turn Right (taking the last exit or third exit ) • signal right and approach in the right-hand lane • keep to the right on the roundabout until you need to change lanes to exit the roundabout • signal left after you have passed the exit before the one you want.
Philip working his way up Philip Masango, a groundskeeper for 11 years at Laerskool Trichardt, has recently taken on a new role at the school. He is currently balancing the practical aspect of his B.Ed degree with his theoretical studies through UNISA. An aura of positivity surrounds Masango as he pleasantly discusses his work and education, and when he says that teaching is his calling in life, it is not difficult to believe. Having studied at a Bible college to become a pastor, Masango has long known that imparting knowledge to others is part of his purpose in life. After completing his Adult Basic Education and Training (ABET) in 2016, Masango felt the need and hunger to take his education further. This year, he enrolled at UNISA for a Bachelor of Education, and his journey has propelled into what could only be growth. Having recently been assessed by UNISA examiners on his teaching abilities, Masango now teaches English, Social Sciences and Life Orientation to Grade, 4, 5, 6 and 7 learners at Laerskool Trichardt. “I think this is the ideal place for me to be teaching right now,” he said. “I have been here for so many years already, I am fluent in both English and Afrikaans and I love the way that the school functions, they are such great educators.” Masango hopes that, even after completing his studies, a permanent place will open up for him at the school. “My wife has been really supportive and understanding of the fact that there are serious finances associated with university education,” he said when asked about his family. “We had to sacrifice a lot in the name of saving up for my studies, and she has always been sympathetic to that”. But finances aren’t the only part of Masango’s life that has been strained by his pursuit.
“After work, I attend prayer meetings from 17:30 until 19:30. I then go home and help my own children with their school work, and then I have to study until 11pm. I sleep and then wake up at 3am so that I can prepare for work and leave at 5:30am,” he explained. Juggling school, work and a personal life has become Masango’s daily reality. But he seems to be doing it well. From 10 May 2018, Masango will write his first semester exams, which he is now fervently bracing himself for. On 29 June, the last day of his exam period, he hopes to put his feet up momentarily for a breather. The upward trajectory of his life lately has left him out of breath, but he’s not complaining.
Stand a chance to win with the Selfie Station at Secunda Mall
It's as simple as taking a selfie with one of the oversized shopping items, and posting it to the Secunda Mall Facebook page. Keep an eye on the Secunda Mall Facebook page for more details! Here is Kerry Bird and Rori Rathebe testing out Secunda Mall’s Selfie Station
Philip Masango enrolled for his Bachelor of Education and is currently gaining practical teaching experience at Laerskool Trichardt
NEWS
8
SERVICES
To advertisE call: 017 631 1903 017 631 1845 or Mariëtte 083 476 2860 Mari 084 483 0280
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11 May 2018
Parrot Riders spoil children The Parrot Riders from Secunda spoilt the children of Trichardt Primary School with bedding on Wednesday. Every one of the children’s beds were dressed by the members of the Parrot Riders with specially made duvet covers and pillow cases, adorned different motifs for the boys and girls. A Bible study group from a local church kept the children busy with group games while they waited for their newly dressed beds. This study group also made sure that the nutritional needs of the children were not neglected. Blankets with colours that complimented the themes for both girls and boys formed part of the donation from the Parrot Riders. Kiewiet Erasmus, the president of the
Secunda Parrot Rides, consisting of 12 members, said that they support the need for charity, but only entertain within the charity after investigating the circumstances, requirements and the like. The SADFA was represented by Mr. Henry Buÿs, chairperson and Aart Reedijk, sergeant major, from Sector 1 Cosmos. Henry said that the veteran’s project, Suikerbekkie welcomed all assistance to better the circumstances of these children and thanked Kiewiet for his participation in this endeavour. He invites all organizations who want to join in and make a difference in these children’s lives to contact him at henry. buys1@gmail.com - Aart Reedijk
Laerskool Trichardt het Vrydag ‘n Gholfdag by Walker Park aangebied
Mariëtte 083 476 2860
Mr Andries Spies (Skool hoof) en Me. Karla van Deventer (Beheerliggaam voorsitter.) by hulle borge/prys tafel
Laerskool Kruinpark het Saterdag ‘n Gholfdag by Walker Park aangebied
Mev Anita de Beer (Bemarking) en Mr. Barnie Botha (Waarnemende Adjunkhoof) by hulle borge/prys tafel
11 May 2018
SPORT News
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Woman Motivating Woman The first Woman Motivating Woman gathering took place on 5 May 2018 in Kinross. An event aimed at motivating and inspiring women through the journeys of others, it welcomed three speakers from different walks of life. The session was intimate and warm, and a sense of sisterhood filled the room as the guests offered their listenership to Lethabo, Sandra and Bridgett, who took them through their life experiences. The themes of the day included career, relationships, womanhood and spiritual wellbeing. Lethabo Maluleke, the first speaker of the day, held the overarching message of empowerment in all facets of a woman’s life. Through the analogy of a lioness, she encouraged the guests by reminding them that by nature, women are strong. Reflecting on the recent passing of Winnie Madikizela, Maluleke spoke on the silent power of women. “I think Nelson [Mandela] was really powerful, but the stronger person was actually Winnie. Their relationship was a perfect example of the fact that men tend to get the glory and recognition, but women are glorious in their own right,” she said. “We [women] are actually much stronger than we think, and like lionesses, we can be both powerful and nurturing.” Maluleke also encouraged the ladies by offering her own tips and strategies on navigating womanhood, which included finding sisterhood, selfconfidence and self-care. “Surround yourself with other like-minded women,” she said. “It will enhance your own strength as a woman.” “We are continuously being judged
on how we look, how we dress. People comment on our weight and appearance, and we tend to internalise those comments and become our biggest critics. Yet when we begin to focus on our flaws, we lose sight of all the things that make us beautiful.” She urged women to appreciate themselves, even if they are not currently where they want to be. And the pressure of wanting to be in a certain place in life was a motif that presented itself in the next speaker’s address: Sandra Nortje shared her experiences (some of which were not the most pleasant) around romantic relationships. It is no surprise that women become preoccupied with romantic relationships, and for many, a great intimate partner is involved in life’s ever-growing wishlist. Sandra emphasised the value of taking this wishlist to God and praying for the emergence of that knight in shining armour. While both these speakers touched on the relationships we have with other human beings, Bridgett Viglieno, the final guest speaker, conveyed a message of maintaining a relationship with God. Her story, which saw her life transitioning from falling apart to becoming whole, stirred the audience. She testified of God’s love, power and provision, which she states lifted her from a life of depression and hate to where she is now: happy and delivering the Gospel all over Africa as the ‘Street Evangelist’. Woman Motivating Woman also doubled as a networking space where, as aptly suggested by Lethabo, women could surround themselves
Levhu wins Woman in Media award Levhuwani Nhlambo, Editor of Ses'khona News, went home with the Woman in Media Award on the evening of 5 May 2018. The “I Am a Woman, I Have A Purpose” awards evening took place at Graceland Casino and Resorts. The occasion was the first initiative of its kind, and will henceforth be an annual occurrence. “We are striving to heighten the development of women in our community,” said Mashudu Mulaudzi, the co-founder of I Am a Woman I Have A Purpose. She said that the idea to award women for their achievements and roles in the community was a way to encourage them and give them the recognition that they deserve but often don’t get. Nhlambo agreed with this sentiment, saying she was “excited that there are people who see a need to recognise the good work which women are doing on a daily basis.” “These awards are also about telling us that we are on the right track,” she said. Women who were awarded for their work were first nominated into
subcategories by members of the community. These categories include Woman in Media, Woman in Sports, Woman in Ministry and Woman in Business. Levhu recalled being pleasantly surprised that she was nominated. “I still don’t know who nominated me,” she said. She said that she loved the event, and since it is annual, would be delighted if other categories, such as those that include women with disabilities, could be included in future. “I want to thank all the people who trust us with their stories,” Levhu said. “As a journalist, people trust you to tell their stories for them and that’s very important.” “I would also like to thank my husband for being so supportive of my journey in media.” To other women in media, Levhu offered this encouragement: “Just keep on doing great work, and don’t only seek to be rewarded financially. Just impacting someone’s life is a great deal.”
with the warmth of other women. Kesegie Moodley, the organiser of the occasion, said that she looked forward
Sandra Nortje was one of the guest speakers at the Woman Motivating Woman event
to hosting more of its kind, and that 5 May 2018 was a step in the right direction.
Bridget Viglieno, known as the "street evangelist" spoke about the importance of a relationship with God
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SCHOOL
11 May 2018
HS Oosterland sport presteer
Oosterland se seuns eerste hokkiespan het die afgelope week ‘n skitterende naam vir hulself gemaak. Die span het hul wedstryd teen Hoërskool Standerton op 2 Mei 2018 gewen, met ‘n telling van 6-0. Dit was ‘n liga-wedstryd en aangesien hulle nie soveel wedstryde verloor het nie, is hulle die beste van die liga. Die eerste span is verlede week ook as die wenners van die Puk 16-reeks bekroon, met drie van hul spanlede wat gekies is vir die O/18-Mpumalangaspan. Hulle is Kamo Naheng (o/18A), Dan Sithole (o/18B) en Onthatile Mokwiti (o/18A).
Laerskool Goedehoop presteer Die volgende leerlinge staan akadmies 1ste in hul betrokke graad vir die 1ste kwartaal. Melani Slabbert (Gr. 4), Mia du Toit (Gr. 5), Simeon Rudolph (Gr. 5), Nika Thomas (Gr. 6), Charissa Stapelberg (Gr. 7)
Die volgende seuns is gekies vir die Gert Sibande Rugbyspan vir die ouderdomme o/12 en o/13. Die proewe het plaasgevind op 23 April 2018 vir o/12 en 25 April 2018 vir o/13. Hierdie groep seuns gaan die naweek van 4 & 5 Mei 2018 deelneem aan die Pumaproewe wat plaasvind te HTS Middelburg. Foto: Rugby Gert Sibandespan Voor: Arlo Smith (o/13), Jarno Haarhoff (o/12), Henrico Fourie (o/13), Divan Mulder (o/12), Ryan Erasmus (o/12) Middel: Jayden Joubert (o/12), Luan Lottering (o/13), Handré Hattingh (o/13), Nathan Matthee (o/13), Tyron Moolman (o/13) Agter: Wernich Rossouw (o/12), Brink le Grange (o/12), Stefan Bezuidenhout (o/12), Ian Morgan (o/13), Tiaan de la Rey (o/13), Jayden Schnuir (o/13), Handré Griessel (o/12), Julian Cosmo (o/12), Marlou Coetzer (o/12)
Die afgelope langnaweek (25 tot 30 April 2018) het Goedehoop se o/13Anetbalspan na George getoer. Hier het hulle kragte gemeet teen Laerskole Blanco, Anton van Wouw, Seodin, George-Suid, Stellenbosch en Volschenk. Hulle eindig 1ste met ‘n total van 12 punte, die naaste skool behaal slegs 8 punte. Die span teken 132 doele aan vir die toernooi met die naaste skool wat 64 doele aangeteken het. Voor: Chené de Bruin, Ané Botha, Johnke Prinsloo, Lana Hyman Agter: Meceila Brits, Marjohandi Wilken, Me. Lizanne Breed (Afrigter), Me. Minjon Pelser (Hulp-afrigter), Dané Binneman, Carla Stoltz
Schools/Sport
11 May 2018
11
Rising Stars back on track On 17 April 2018, the Bulletin published a story on the Flour Daniels Stadium in eMbalenhle, which was, at the time, in the poorest of conditions. The Rising Stars Football Club (RSFC), based in eMbalenhle, had made repeated complaints to Ace Vilakazi, the councillor of Ward 7, about the state of the field, and had even taken the matter to the previous mayor, Flora Maboa-Boltmann. Nickanamed ‘KaNdiza’, the stadium had been turned into a dumping site and party venue, where players of RSFC alleged that drug use was common. The height of the uncut grass on the field made it impossible to constructively play any sport. Having lost hope in their own officials, who made a series of unfulfilled promises regarding the maintenance of the stadium, the football club appealed to the Bulletin as a means of reaching a larger audience and hopefully bringing about some much-
needed change. Sure enough, a heartfelt message of gratitude was received on 1 May 2018. “After your article, the members of ward 7’s EFF committee came to one of our meetings on 22 April and told us they could help us put pressure on the municipality. Then, on Tuesday 24 April, we met with them and went to the municipal offices. On the very same day, the grass was cut,” said MJ Khumalo, co-founder of RSFC. “On 1 May, we met with the EFF members just to clean the grounds.” If anything, this testimonial is proof of the role of the media in being a voice for those who are silent, and a watchdog for the community. “We would like to thank the paper and the EFF for helping in getting our grounds clean,” Khumalo said. It is his strong belief that the article was a catalyst in the process of improving the functionality of the team. “We are all delighted as a team. This
HS Secunda mors met oponente
helps us move forward; we’ve already started with our u/13 and u/15 league games,” Khumalo said. The team practices on Mondays and Thursdays, and are now hoping to find ways to restrict access to the field so
that drug use in the area declines. Their plans also include maintaining the field themselves (with the help of team members’ parents) from here on out, since it is now in a more manageable state.
Members of RSFC and the EFF geared up to clean the Flour Daniels Stadium in eMbalenhle
Seuns verteenwoordig HS Secunda in provinsie O/16
O/18
Laerskool Secunda het op Saterdag, 5 Mei hul Pumaki en Mini-netbaldag aangebied. Elf skole van die omgewing het deelgeneem aan die sportdag. Hier is Danika Smit 0/7 van Laerskool Secunda
Hoërskool Secunda se rugby spanne het die afgelope Saterdag (5 Mei 2018) op hul tuisveld te staan gekom teen Hoërskool Lydenburg en uitsonderlik presteer. Hier volg die uitslae: O/14A wen 57 – 5, O/15A wen 27 – 20, O/16A wen 30 – 29, O/16B wen 36 – 17, 3de span wen 29 – 12, 2de span wen 24 – 7, 1ste span wen 54 – 14 Hoërskool Secunda (Secunda) se eerste span het n goed afgeronde spel gespeel. Die voorspelers het baie goed saamgewerk en die skrums het beindruk. Lynstane het ook vlot verloop. Dit was egter die agterlyn spel wat werklik die spreekwoordelike “kameel se rug” gebreek het. Daar was geen keer aan die span van Secunda nie. Aanvals lyne was goed gevolg, verdediging was goed en die hantering was ook goed. HS Secunda het weereens bewys dat hulle lus is vir rugby speel. Baie geluk aan al die spanne wat al hulle wedstryde gewen het.
Seuns van Hoërskool Secunda is opgeneem in verskeie Mpumalanga hokkiespanne vir 2018. Hulle is Xander Naidoo and Vusi Cameole (O/14A), Thabo Mtsweni (O/14B), Sipha Hlope (O/16A), Anandes van der Walt en Shuaib Allee (O/16B), Henry Jooste en Sakhile Msibi (O/18B; Sakhile was afwesig toe die foto geneem was)
O/14
11 May
2018
Bulletin
Sasol demolishes Witbank
Calvin Black of Sasol storms forward
Sasol rugby club (Sasol) displayed some brilliant rugby in their game against the newly formed Witbank Rugby Club (Witbank). Sasol won the game by 62 to 20 points. Witbank Rugby club is an amalgamation of two Witbank teams, namely Ferros and Highveld with Sasol Rugby club as their first opponents. The performances of the two teams in the past, especially Ferros, should only spell trouble for their opponents in the future. This was not the case on Saturday. Witbank did not display the fire that they played with last year. One can only presume that the team players still have to find their rhythm. They also need to play as a team. This will come in time. Hopefully the players will stick together until then. Sasol, however, put on a display
Mike van Vuren unceremoniously bumps off his opponent
that they can be proud off. The level of rugby that they played at the beginning of the league can only be an indication of a good year. Sasol had two “off” weekends and it seems that they put this time to good use. The scrums functioned well and the front rows did not stand back for their strong counter parts. Two turnover balls (tight heads) early in the game set the trend for the scrums to follow. Although Witbank was no push over, they did allow Sasol to dominate. Lineouts were a different story. In stark contrast to last year’s struggle, Sasol dominated the lineouts totally. Their throw-ins were on target and the jumper on cue. It was good execution all around. Witbank lost most of their lineouts to Sasol. Their throw-ins were low and slow and need more practice. Sasol’s work around the scrum was
excellent and fast. They had their opponents guessing all the time. The Sasol backline really impressed. They showed a willingness to attack and to pass the ball around. A number of times they deliberately straightened their attack line and took the attack head on to their opponents in a style that we so seldom see in modern rugby. Straight attacking lines create gaps and that is what happened against Witbank. Sasol used these gaps to their advantage. They also managed to draw the players from the wings into the playing field, creating overlaps in the backline. This resulted in a try fest for the backline. It is difficult to find fault in a game like this, where everything seemed to work like a machine. There are a few areas that needs to be addressed. The first is ball handling.
Many opportunities were lost due to poor handling. Fortunately, it was not the order of the day. Secondly, the players sometimes passed wildly and this would put everyone under pressure as the ball went backwards. The major point of concern is that Sasol seemed to become complacent three quarters through the game. This allowed Witbank to score. Sasol looked unfit and tired in the last 15 minutes. There are, however, far more positive points to talk about in this game and if this would form the basis for the games to come, then I’m sure that the opponents will have their work cut out for them. All in all, well done Sasol. A good game was played with tremendous spirit and enthusiasm.