Issue 197 - FREE
12
October 2018
Community News. Original - accurate - first
017 631 1903 / 017 631 1845 • admin@thebulletin.co.za • 1 Kiewiet Street, Secunda (Lake Umuzi)
Power restored at eMbalenhle
Residents are relieved to have power restored in eMbalenhle after several days without electricity. On Wednesday 3 October a substation exploded leaving the area without power for several days. Residents complained to the Bulletin that the repairs are taking too long. Some even said that they would embark on a protest campaign if the power was not restored by Sunday night. The Bulletin visited the substation on Sunday night to establish the exact state of repairs. The MMC (Member of the Mayoral Committee) Technical services, Councillor Dan Nhlapo, was also at the scene. The Editor of the Bulletin approached him where he was sitting on the back of his bakkie with a friend. When the Bulletin enquired about the state of the repairs and as to when the power is expected to be restored, also stating that residents have threatened with protests if the power was not restored, the friend of Dan Nhlapo started hurling insults towards the Bulletin, stating that the Bulletin has a bad attitude. He then continued to incite a number of other people standing around that started to threaten the Bulletin one even threatened to shoot the Bulletin’s Editor. Dan Nhlapo did not once try to stop the threats nor did he give any feedback on the substation. When asked to give proper translation he laughed it off and said that his friend, as well as the group of people, said nothing. “Don’t worry about it” said Dan. The leader of SAPROMO, Councillor Sibusiso Hlolweni spoke to the Bulletin regarding the electricity crises in eMbalenhle. “SAPROMO is saddened by the continuous power outage in eMbalenhle due to the explosion in ext 5 substation. We are not surprised by this explosion as we know that the said substation is a ticking time bomb that is a potential health hazard to the nearby residents and workers of Govan Mbeki Municipality.” Said Hlolweni, “Bad leadership under the leadership of mayor of Thandi Ngxonono is a reason why the residents find themselves in this situation. Series of empty
promises, lies and maladministration are the leading causes for the service delivery in eMbalenhle including this power outage. The residents were promised that electricity will be taken back to ESKOM, just to have them stop protesting.” He further stated: “SAPROMO is also not surprised that the resolution to apply for the usage of old Bracken Mine substation is not implemented because this leadership is not willing to implementing anything that will help the community. It is sad that the community has to suffer the consequences of this reckless and ignorant leadership.” Councillor Mariaan Chamberlain said that the problems exist not only in eMbalenhle but throughout the whole of Govan Mbeki Municipality (GMM). “Repair is done to substations on a temporary basis but left as is.” Says Mariaan, “the infrastructure is on the verge of collapse due to bad maintenance. It is a disaster waiting to happen.” “An ADHOC committee was established by the GMM Council to spearhead the move to ESKOM as per council resolution,” continued Mariaan, “This committee has never done any work except 2 days before the first council meeting where the ADHOC committee was established, this meeting was convened mainly to be able to say that a meeting did indeed take place. One decision was taken, that power should also be relayed from the Bracken substation to eMbalenhle.” Cllr Chamberlain also stated that “After this initial meeting the committee never functioned as there is always some excuse, although meetings were scheduled regularly. There would always be someone else that is needed to sit in on the committee according to the ANC members and if not there they would postpone the meeting just to repeat the process a week later. The next step would be that no one could attend. There would always be some excuse why the committee cannot function on that particular day.” Continued to page 5
Anglo American’s Isibonelo Colliery hosted a welness day at the Vlaklaagte informal settlement. Read the story on page 9.
NEWS
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12 October 2018
Sasol turns a deaf ear to the voice of striking workers
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Solidarity and Sasol on Wednesday, 3 October, left a meeting at the Commission for Conciliation, Mediation and Arbitration (CCMA) without achieving any success after the second round of conciliation held at the CCMA did not yield a solution for the ongoing dispute. Solidarity members at Sasol have been on a go-slow since the beginning of September because of Sasol’s employee ownership plan, Khanyisa, which excludes white workers from its Phase 2. According to Solidarity Deputy General Secretary, Deon Reyneke, Sasol refuses to whatsoever concede to the striking workers’ requests. “Sasol maintains in no uncertain terms that its division of the workforce on the basis of race is acceptable and constitutes justified discrimination. The striking workers’ clear request for inclusivity is simply being swept off the table,” Reyneke explained. Solidarity will now intensify the strike and the creation of awareness about this important issue by declaring a national day of protest by its members and by organising a protest march to the Sasol Head Office in Sandton. Full details of the protest march will soon be announced. Sasol wrote the following on their website regarding the mediation process with Solidarity. Today, the Commission for Conciliation, Mediation and Arbitration (CCMA) brought its mediation between Sasol and Solidarity, in relation to a dispute on Sasol Khanyisa, to a close. While the mediation did not lead to a resolution of Solidarity’s dispute, it did provide both parties with a constructive platform to share each other’s views and engage on the issues.
At the mediation, the team representing Sasol reaffirmed our position that transformation is, and will remain, a social, moral and business imperative for Sasol. Sasol Khanyisa represents a significant step Sasol is taking to bring about a more inclusive economy by affording an opportunity specifically to previously disadvantaged groups, as defined by the Department of Trade and Industry’s B-BBEE codes. With regard to industry charters applicable to Sasol, the Mining Charter applies to Sasol Mining, while the Liquid Fuels Charter applies to Sasol’s liquid fuels Energy Business. Each of these Sasol businesses complies with the applicable Charters. Sasol’s Secunda and Sasolburg Operations, as well as the Chemical Business and gas operations, are housed in Sasol South Africa Limited. The Sasol Khanyisa transaction is also housed in Sasol South Africa Limited. There is no correlation between Sasol Khanyisa and the Mining Charter. The B-BBEE laws which govern the Sasol Khanyisa transaction take precedence over the Mining Charter.
Sasol is under no legal or other obligation to amend the Employee Share Ownership Plan structure of Sasol Khanyisa as the company is fully compliant with the applicable charters and B-BBEE laws. Further, the 2018 Mining Charter’s requirement regarding qualifying employees applies only to new, future mining rights applications. Should Sasol Mining apply for new mining licences in the future, we will take the appropriate steps to comply with the Mining Charter in that regard. We participated in the CCMA’s mediation process and expressed sincere interest in finding an appropriate resolution. However, if Solidarity is, after the CCMA mediation, still of the view that Sasol Khanyisa is not in accordance with applicable laws and regulations, they would need to take their argument to the appropriate court for adjudication. Should this course of action be pursued, Sasol supports and encourages this on behalf of our employees that are represented by Solidarity. If the current B-BBEE laws are modified then we will most certainly comply with any changes in these laws.
Eskom suspends its head of Assurance & Forensics pending an investigation Eskom has placed its Senior General Manager of Assurance and Forensics, Mr Molefi Nkhabu, on a precautionary suspension pending an investigation into circumstances surrounding internal audit investigation reports pertaining to transactions that he signed off, which contain inferences or conclusions which had the effect of exonerating certain previous Eskom executives implicated in maladministration.
The Eskom executive management, whilst espousing the principle of the presumption of innocence, due to the seniority of Mr Nkhabu and the seriousness of the allegations made against him, took a decision that it would be better for him to be suspended until the investigation is finalised. The Board and executive management of Eskom are keen and resolute in rooting out maladministration.
A freak accident occurred 30 September on the eMbalenhle/Charl Cilliers road. A part of a truck became detached and hit the bakkie on the windscreen. It penetrated the windscreen and hit the driver of the bakkie in the head. The driver was flown by helicopter to Nelspruit on Tuesday 2 October. He is stable but still in a critical condition.
NEWS
12 October 2018
Breast Cancer Awareness As women we sometimes set our health aside because there is always something more important: getting the kids to school and activities like plays and sports on time, being a mother, a lover and a mistress to our husbands while working fulltime. Breast Cancer is much more prevalent in our community than we realise. Statistics have shown that 1 in 28 women in South Africa will develop breast cancer in their life. That is 3.6%! That is not all. Did you know that men can develop breast cancer too? Breast Cancer will appear in 1% of men. (leadsa.co.za/ articles/288124/breastcancers-stats-facts) Everyone knows someone that has been diagnosed with breast cancer or has been that person who has been diagnosed with breast cancer. Thanks to modern medicine, there are numerous breast cancer survivors. With October being Breast Cancer Awareness month, here are some questions and answers on how to recognise breast cancer. Cancer doesn’t distinguish between race, age or economic circumstances. This silent killer will choose anyone and start growing indiscriminately. Breast Cancer mostly affects older women, but younger women sometimes also fall victim to it. Do a selfbreast exam often, visit your doctor as soon as you feel you felt a lump in any of your breasts or under your arms and never be scared to ask for a second opinion. Technology today is so advanced that the stories our mothers told us about when they were young sound
implausible. Mammogram technology has advanced considerably, lowenergy x-rays are used to examine the breasts for any microcalcifications or anything out of the ordinary. Low-energy x-rays mean that there is very little radiation one gets exposed to. Women, you owe it to yourself and your loved ones to take care of yourself by diligently doing selfexaminations and going for regular mammograms. Teach your daughters how to do the examinations, nurturing their awareness of this illness and how to identify it at an early stage. Let us, as women, take the time and get tested! - AnĂŠ Prinsloo
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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 Ané Prinsloo 082 576 8279 ane@thebulletin.co.za news@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
COMMUNITY NEWS ORIGINAL ACCURATE FIRST WE SET THE TREND OTHERS FOLLOW
12 October 2018
Ds Marius Britz My oorsprong lê diep in die vrugbare grond van ‘n Stellenboschse wingerd. Die Bolandse son, die reën en die bemesting op sy tyd was veronderstel om die druiwe waaruit ek gemaak is, te laat ontwikkel tot een van die mees gesogte kultivars. Ek was bestem om ‘n gesogte wyn te word, met ‘n deftige Franse beskrywing soos “Cabernet Sauvignon,” en ‘n uitsoeketiket, ‘n versamelstuk wat honderde rande op wynveilings sou behaal. Ek was veronderstel om in die Platters-wynhandleiding vermeld te word. Maar iewers het iets skeefgeloop. Uiteindelik beland ek toe as ‘n etiketlose R20special by die Mooiberge-padstal tussen Stellenbosch en SomersetWes. Lank het ek daar gelê en stof opgaar, terwyl die duur, elegante wyne in trollies na die kassiere toe gestoot is. Tot op daardie dag wat iemand my gekoop het, nadat hy al die ander bottels opgetel, bekyk en weer neergesit het. Middeljarige man, wange diep gegroef, donker kringe onder sy oë. Vreugdelose uitdrukking op sy gesig. En my reis word een wat ‘n heel ander bestemming het as ‘n wynveiling, soos by ‘n hoërskoolreünie, waar iemand wat een of twee te veel gevat het, tot verontwaardiging van sy vrou hopeloos te veel op my sou
bie om sy oud-skoolvriende te beindruk. My misplaaste bestaan word voortgesit by diè man. In plaas van kristalglase by ‘n uithangdinee met kerslig, word ek strand toe gevat, en teen ‘n duin staangemaak. My Koper en sy Vriend skink my nie, maar gooi my inhoud onseremonieël in plastiekglase. “En toe,” vra Koper vir sy Vriend. “Hoe gaan dit met jou?” Vriend vat een slukkie van my, en kry so effense siddering in sy lyf oor die frankheid in my samestelling. “Hoe kan ek jou antwoord?”, sê Vriend. “Ek vat maar elke dag soos hy kom. Ek is gefrustreerd by die werk. My loopbaan lyk heel anders as wat ek gehoop het dit gaan wees.” Koper staar net na die see, terwyl hy stadig, slukkie vir slukkie, oor Vriend se woorde nadink. “Het jy toe ooit jou doktorsgraad klaargemaak?,” vra Vriend. “Nee,” antwoord Koper. “Daar het iets voorgeval.” Altwee staar nou na die see, en suig stadig aan my suurderige, effe ongebalanseerde smaak uit die plastiekglase. “Wat?” vra Vriend. Koper kry so blinkerigheid in sy oë, en kyk na ‘n groot vragskip wat vêr op die gesigseinder van die see lê en wag om by die hawe in te gaan. “Die lewe,” antwoord hy. “Ek het my werk verloor, en moes toe maar worstel om liggaam en siel bymekaar te hou.” Stilte sif vir so rukkie neer oor die twee manne. Die enigste beweging is wanneer hulle so nou en dan die plastiekglase na hulle lippe bring, of die inhoud daarvan opvul. “En jy,” vra Koper vir Vriend. “Jy was die briljantste student in ons klas. Ek was oortuig dat jy ‘n vol professor wou wees voordat jy dertig jaar oud is. Wat het gebeur?” Vriend
druk sy bril teen sy voorkop vas met sy middelvinger. Hy knip-knip sy oë, en merk half terloops op: “Ek was maar net op die verkeerde tyd op die verkeerde plek gewees.” Dan hang daar so paar oomblikke se swanger stilte in die lug. Seemeeue draai bokant ons, en krys hard, hulle kyk stip na ons om te sien of daar nie dalk ‘n vreetding is om op te raap nie. “To be or not to be, that is the question”, haal Koper met ‘n siniese glimlag vir Hamlet van Shakespeare aan. “Ja, beaam Vriend, “Heidegger het gesê mens leef deur jou keuses. En as jy verkeerd kies, is dit swem Jannie, swem!” Altwee lag skielik kliphard, want Leon Schuster se ou liedjies het vir baie binnepret gesorg tydens hulle studentejare. Toe hulle nog gebraai en gelag en musiek geluister en gedroom het. “Sou jy jou lewe anders wou gehad het?”, vra Koper. “Dis moeilik om te sê. Ja, in die sin van dat ek baie meer kon bereik het in my loopbaan. En ja, in die sin van dat ek voel ek nie naasteby my potensiaal bereik het nie. Jy onthou Billy Joel se lied Pianoman: die kroegman wat sê: ”Bill I believe I could be a movie star, if I could get out of this place.” Hulle kyk nou vir mekaar. “En
jy?’ vra Vriend. Koper suig aan nog so slukkie van my suurgeit, rol die wyn in sy mond rond. “Hoe meet mens hierdie dinge?” vra hy. “Ons was meer as drie dekades terug saam eerstejaars op universiteit. Ons het mekaar nie dikwels gesien deur die jare daarna nie. Dis maar die afgelope tyd wat ons weer kontak gemaak het. En hier sit ons vandag, en ons knoop ons borskaste vir mekaar oop. Ons het ‘n band van vriendskap, vertroue. Ons kan onsself wees. Ek kan vir jou hierdie batterysuur in ‘n plastiekglas gooi, (verwysende na mý!). En jy oordeel my nie op die uiterlike nie. Ek kan toekenningsloos, etiketloos met jou praat oor die lewe, oor letterkunde, oor musiek en poësie. En jy verstaan presies waaroor ons praat, en vul my kennis nog aan ook.” Vriend reageer. “Dit is waaroor lewe gaan, mater. As jy nou tien miljoen rand sterk was, maar geen benul gehad het wie Saint-Saëns, Vondel, Immanuel Kant, Van Wyk Louw en Berkhouwer is nie, sou jy ‘n beter mens wees? Maak etikette wat mense op jou plak, saak?” “Nee”, sê Koper. “Etikette en toekennings is betekenisloos.” En sit my versigtig regop.
Tannie Poppie se: Geroomde Sampioentert Koop ekstra sampioene wanneer dit volop is. Vries dit en gebruik dit vir hierdie tert. Bak en gebruik enige tertkors vir dié vulsel. Tertkors Dis ‘n fantastiese deeg vir soeten soutterte. Boonop is dit maklik om te maak. 8x250ml koekmeelbom 30ml bakpoeier 5ml sout 25ml kerriepoeier 500g botter of margarien 250ml chedderkaas Koue water
1. Voorverhit die oond tot 180oC (350 oF). 2. Smelt die botter of margarien en roer die koekmeelblom by. Roer tot glad. 3. Roer die melk by en daarna die sout. 4. Kook tot die witsous begin verdik. 5. Voeg die eiers by die witsous. 6. Roer die ui, sampioene en kaas by en geur met peper. Meng goed. 7. Skep in die tertkors. 8. Bak 20-30 minute lank.
Berei deeg vir soutterte: 1. Sif die koekmeelblom, bakpoeier, sout en kerriepoeier saam. 2. Vryf die botter of margarien met jou fingerpunte in die meelmengsel. 3. Voeg die kaas by en genoeg koue water om ‘n sagte deeg te form. 4. Vries die deeg to benodig. 5. Ontdooi, rol uit en bak volgens die aanwysings van van die resep waarvoor dit gebruik word. Tert 15ml botter of margarien 15ml koekmeelblom 250ml warm melk 2,5ml sout 2 eiers, geklits 1ui, gekap 1 blik (405g) geroomde sampioene 375ml gerasperde cheddarkaas 1 gaar tertkors Peper na smaak
Die boek word deur Human & Rousseau uitgegee
SPORT News
12 October 2018
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Cell Phone Etiquette and phones with educational games and stories. No more building Lego, climbing trees or playing outside. Teenagers will be out with friends, sitting next to each other and texting or Whatsapping the person next to them. Most teenagers nowadays know more about things they are not supposed to than those who grew up without internet and those who remember what a library is… Not the music library on your phone! In lieu of all this there should be some set rules or rather an etiquette around cell phones. Most people will ignore it and continue, not even seeing the plane fall right next to them. So, to those interested, consider the following and add them to your daily life:
Public Places 1. If in public, do not use speaker phone. 2. Even though the person on the other side of the phone is far away… no need to shout. 3. In restaurants, movies, theatres and plays, switch your phone to vibrate or off. 4. The same applies to churches, synagogues, mosques and any place of worship… switch off your phone! 5. If you share an office at work… switch to vibrate. 6. Switch your phones off on flights. If there is Aeromobile or WiFi available, switch your phone to vibrate so as not to disturb others around you. Family and Friends 1. Families: If you are at the dinner table, switch off all devices for that half an hour
or so and enjoy one another’s company. Take time to enjoy your family and take interest in their lives. 2. Always be physically and mentally present when you are out or spending time with other people. 3. For the singletons: If you are on a date, silent works just as well as loud and put that phone away because you never know if he/she will be the one. 4. Do not text when out or
PICTURE: Source: https://businesstech.co.za/news/mobile/230439/this-data-shows-just-howdangerous-texting-and-driving-really-is/ Continued from page 1
Power restored at eMbalenhle
“The promise that the MEC made and forced the ANC council members to adopt regarding the return of electricity supply to ESKOM seems like an empty promise.” Continues Mariaan, “They needed to pass the budget in order not to be placed under administration and made promises with no intention to keep it” The issue of electricity supply will continue to haunt GMM until the maintenance is done to acceptable standards. Power was eventually restored
late on Sunday night. “SAPROMO would like to thank the officials of Govan Mbeki Municipality and the service provider who worked around the clock to restore electricity in eMbalenhle. Credit should also go to the director of technical service and technicians who is forever risking their lives to work in that hazardous substation, a time bomb that is waiting to explode at any time. Hlolweni said, “However, SAPROMO is not happy about the time taken to repair the burnt equipment in
that substation. We understand that the damage was very big, but it should have taken shorter than it is to repair the damage. SAPROMO also propose that investigation be done to check the cause of the explosion and the reason for such a long time it took to restore electricity and if it is found that it was due to negligence someone must be held accountable.” At the time of printing the power supply was intermittent at best and 19H19 eMbalenhle was dark.
VACANCIES VAKATURES
Standing in your local grocer at the till, the person in front of you picks up their ringing phone and puts it on speaker phone… Who has not experienced this before? In today’s world with technology developing at the speed of light and a new model cell phone released almost each month, it is impossible to keep up with anything going on around you anymore. Life passes us by because we are too obsessed with our phones: social media, Whatsapp, Facebook messenger and everything else on our phones that can make us look important. Gone are the days when kids played outside and remember what it feels like to have a thorn get stuck in their foot. No, kids these days are stuck to tablets
together - that is like talking behind someone’s back. Driving 1. Refrain from using the phone when driving. Statistics have shown that people in the age group of 18 – 24 are more likely to be involved in an accident because of using their cell phone than those between 25 – 49. Keeping all this in mind, let us start using our phones less and see the world around us again! -Ané Prinsloo
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12 October 2018
12 October 2018
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Umuzi Week of Festivals kept everyone entertained
Photo by: Theresa Duvenhage
Photo by: Theresa Duvenhage
Umuzi Week of Festivals, 10 days, 5 festivals. From 28 September to 7 October, Lake Umuzi Waterfront was transformed into a beehive of festivities. 28 September, Lekke Fees, Oktoberfest, Rainbow Sportfest and AquaZone Springfest kicked off. Lekke Fees – For 2 days Lake Umuzi Kamp Oase hosted the Lekke Fees where some of South Africa’s most famous artists performed. Ten jumping castles of various heights provided enough entertainment for the young ones while parents could browse through the variety of stalls or relax in the beer tent. Due to the bad weather on Friday evening The Puma Energy Flying Lions could not do the Harvard’s air show as planned, but on Saturday morning they did not disappoint when putting up an amazing show with loads of flips and turns. Not to mention some heart racing low flying over Lake Umuzi. An emergency action demonstration was hosted by StratCon Risk, Jelani Security, CPF, ER24, Secunda Fire department and the SAPD. The organisers wish to thank all the volunteers for the excellent demonstrations that were done for the children, as well as all the assistance given to assure that the whole festival was secure and had the necessary personnel in case of an emergency. Lake Umuzi Oktoberfest – Eish!! South African Kitchen’s deck was jam-packed with music lovers for most of the 10 days. The organisers wish to thank each and every one that attended this festival. Without the great attendance Eish!! would not have been able to host the festival with free entry. Wyn-Inni-Tyn - 4, 5 and 6 October Boesies venue hosted the 4th WynInni-Tyn. Thursday, 4 October the wine festival kicked off with Radio Kalahari Orkes performing in the marquee tent. Robertson, Fat Bastard and KVW wines were available for tasting. On Friday from 14:00 Phillipe Abalovi, Petronel Baard and Stef Kruger performed under the weeping willows while wine tasting continued from various Winelands. Bo Plaas, Lourensford, Aan de Doorns, Clarington were amongst the 20 wine estates that presented their wines. Wine lovers had the opportunity to taste the various wines and buy at estate prices. Friday evening, Adam Tas had a sold-
out show that ensured that the party continued until early morning hours. Saturday the festivities continued with wine and food lovers enjoying the great weather. Wyn-Inni-Tyn ended with the gifted Jannie Moolman enchanting the audience with his amazing voice. He sang a wide variety of songs including Italian and Afrikaans oldies. Rainbow Sportfest – All the various sporting clubs in Secunda hosted sporting events during the 10 days. Starting off with the Lake Umuzi National Rally on Thursday, 27 September. After a nail-biting competition local rally driver, AC Potgieter, managed to secure the win in this rally. Action Sport Secunda had their grand opening on Friday, 28 September. They invited all sporting enthusiasts to join the sporting leagues for the coming season. Sasol sport hosted an amateur wrestling competition, cricket 6’s, rugby 7’s, hockey 11’s and soccer 7’s. Without these great organisers, Rainbow Sportfest would not have been able to exist. The organisers of Umuzi Week of Festivals would like to thank all these volunteers for their time and efforts. Secunda Marathon club hosted the Rainbow race on 29 September. This was a colourful event with family and friends flinging neon coloured powder at each other. On 6 October Sasol Marathon club hosted a 10km and 21.1km for the more serious runners. The runners followed the famous Kosmos 3-in-1 route but said the route felt easier because it was run earlier than the usual time. Kosmos 3-in-1’s 21.1km usually starts at 13:00 whereas the Rainbow race started at 6:30. Le-mans 4 hours endurance race also took place on 6 October, teams, and solo riders, competed. Stefan Kruger came first in the men’s solo category and Janika Smith in the women’s solo category. AquaZone Springfest – Young and old enjoyed the summer weather for most of the week at AquaZone Waterpark. A few changes were made to the main waterslide to ensure a thrilling ride for everyone. Umuzi Week of festivals will be hosted again on 20-29 September 2019. Keep an eye out on Facebook for all the information. – Rolin Booysen
Photo by: Roper Botes
Photo by: Theresa Duvenhage
Photo by: Gerrit Mybergh
Photo by: Carel Greyling
Photo by: Carel Greyling
Photo by: Gerrit Mybergh
NEWS
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SERVICES
To advertisE call: 017 631 1903 017 631 1845 Mariëtte 083 476 2860 Lizette 076 138 8807
12 October 2018
Extention 22 Reservoir not functional The Bulletin received numerous complaints regarding waterpressure in the Ext 22 area. The Bulletin decided to visit the reservoir to establish what the problem could be. What greeted the Bulletin was something that was not expected. The reservoir was totally disfunctional. One reservoir had a floating roof that was in a state of disrepair. It had clearly not been used in a very long time. The whole area was easy to access and even the building housing the pumps were open. When the Bulletin entered the building it was flooded with fresh water, approximately 4m deep.
At the bottom there were stripped cable housings visible. All the switchgear had been stripped of every single piece of cable and equipment. The Bulletin learned that the reservoir is empty and that water is relayed directly from Rand Water supply. The reservoir has been like this for a very long time. It was reported at least two months ago that the gear was stripped out. The reason given for not fixing the pumpstation is that GMM has to fix the fence fist before reinstalling the cables. The level of maintenance is slipping by the minute in GMM. GMM could not be reached at the time of going to print.
▶ To Advertise Call Mariëtte 083 476 2860 Lizette 076 138 8807
View video on our Facebook page - The Bulletin
SPORT News/School
12 October 2018
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Inaugural Speed Rally a huge success
On Saturday, 6 October, the first ever Speed Rally took place at Secunda Airfield organised by the Secunda Flying Club in association with SAPFA (South African Power Flying Association). The Speed Rally, being the first of its kind, had a complete new set of rules and regulations developed which included a brand-new penalty system. The morning started off with a delicious
breakfast while some of the planes arrived for the rally later. Once all the aircraft had landed, parked, registered and received race numbers, a briefing was given regarding the day’s planned events and safety procedures. The airfield was bustling with family and friends of the pilots and navigators, spectators, media and the aircraft engines roaring all round.
Goedehoop Revue: Geloof, Hoop en Liefde Laerskool Goedehoop het verlede week hulle revue aangebied in die Kruik Gemeente saal. Die revue het gehandel oor die geskiedenis van die skool en die skool se revuespan het geloof met geskiedenis gemeng. “Mnr H.J. du Preez begin op 27 November 1978 met die beplanning van die tweede Laerskool in Secunda. Die skooldeure open op 9 Januarie 1979 met 'n leerlingtal van 169 en 9 leerkragte. Die skooldrag
word op 14 Februarie 1979 gefinaliseer en is vanaf November 1979 beskikbaar gestel.” Bron: Laerskool Goedehoop webwerf. Die gehoor het elke oomblik geniet en was baie interaktief saam met die kinders in die revue. ‘n Toeskouer het opgewonde aan die Bulletin vertel: “Die revue was fantasties en vreeslik oulik, veral die Graad 3’s!” - Ané Prinsloo
Isibonelo hosts wellness day Isibinelo colliery hosted a wellness day at the Vlaklaagte settlement, previously the Holfontein settlement. The wellness day was supported by role players in the medical support fields and attended by the community of Vlaklaagte. This community is situated on the road towards Isibonelo Colliery as well as close to Trichardt. Isibonelo is an Anglo American coal mine in the Govan Mbeki Municipal area and on 1 July 2005, Anglo Coal's Isibonelo Colliery supplied its first consignment of coal to Sasol Limited. The US$65 million Isibonelo coal mine commenced production on time and on budget and was expected to supply 5
million tonnes per annum of thermal coal to Sasol Synfuels when it reached full production during 2006. The residents were addressed by several speakers on issues of health. Topics ranged from Knowing your Status, Fatigue and TB Management, Teenage Pregnancy, Drugs abuse, Illegal selling of alcohol and emergency preparedness. A number of activities were also presented. The youth gathered with a motivational speaker, Grannies played indigenous games with peer educators. There were jumping castles for the very young ones and dog food was distributed to the people with dogs.
The teams only received their planned routes 20 minutes before the race. The routes were given with so little time before the flight so that all would be discouraged to use electronic devices such as GPS. Every pilot and navigator were rearing to go, not wanting to waste another second on ground. The aircraft lined up on the runway, the light turned green, the slowest aircraft
took off first and off they flew one by one! An hour and a bit later the first aircraft flew over the field and the pilots put their birds down, burning to know who won, who flew the longest route and who missed the whole course. Congratulations to Phil Wakeley and Mary de Klerk on winning the first ever Speed Rally in a Cessna 210! - Ané Prinsloo
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12 October 2018
Anthony is fighting back In April the Bulletin reported on an accident that happened on the Evander road. A BMW lost control, veered to the other side of the road and collided with a Hyundai Tucson. One life was lost in the Tucson and one in the BMW. Two people were severely injured and transported to hospital. Today this young man that survived the accident is making a remarkable recovery with the help of family, friends and MMA. Anthony was in hospital for 1 month and after that he was in a wheelchair for a month and a half. He had to learn to walk with a walking frame followed by crutches. Not only did he break both his legs (four fractures) but also his back, ribs, pinkie finger and hurt his shoulder. He joined a few of the MMA classes at Dominator’s Den before his accident. Paul “Piksteel” Ronge visited Anthony in the hospital in Alberton a few times and it was clear that from that moment on, Anthony would be known as Cyborg because of the two steel pins and four screws in his legs. Before the accident Anthony loved jogging but his injuries made this impossible. He felt helpless and frustrated, but with the boxing bags at Dominator’s Den, he found a whole new discipline to assist him to cope with everything. Once he was ready, he went back to Dominator’s Den and was welcomed back with open arms. There were never any doubts regarding his limited
mobility - rather, together, a plan was made to overcome these obstacles and assist Anthony in his rehabilitation and emotional wellness. Even though his legs are technically speaking still broken, it doesn’t stop him from getting up, getting out and getting the exercise he needs. His positive attitude has a lot to do with the friend he lives with who also does MMA. The two work together at Checkmate, train together and push the other to extend their own limits. Anthony has been working at Checkmate for almost a year. Not once did his employers doubt that he will not return to work. Today they are extremely proud to have him back at Checkmate, happy and healthy. “There is no excuse to not get up and exercise. I never feel like anybody is looking at me in a funny way or treating me differently. That is a big motivation to go back and keep on keeping on.” Anthony said. He still has a long road ahead of him; four years until things will be “normal” for him again. Next year in March Anthony can start jogging again, once his screws and pins are removed and he cannot wait for the day to arrive to be running again. With a gorgeous smile on his face Anthony says: “I might look like a soft target because I walk funny and one leg is shorter than the other, but they’ll be surprised to see I am NOT your Average Joe!” -Ané Prinsloo
Heerlike Gholfdag The Mad Cow Aerobatic’s Team entertained the crowds in Bethal Bethal- Jim van Tonderskool bied sy jaarlikse Gholfdag op Saterdag, 13 Oktober by die Bethal Gholfklub aan. Die Skool vier hierdie jaar ook sy 50ste bestaansjaar, en het ook deur die jare bekendheid verwerf vir die vernuftige pryse wat deur die skool en leerders self vervaardig word. Fondse wat deur die geleentheid ingesamel word, word aangewend om die leerders in alle aspekte van hul ontwikkeling in geheel by te staan. Die Skool is ook hierdie jaar in die bevoorregte posisie om tydens die Gholfdag die gaste van Legends Sport in hul midde te verwelkom. Kom speel sommer die dag saam en maak kennis met mede-besighede en spelers. Kostes beloop R250 per speler, wat insluit ontbyt, “Halfway House” en verversings tydens die prysuitdeling. Tydtafels by Bethal Gholfklub: 071 449 8506 Navrae: Talitha Calitz Organiseerder - Tel nr: 017-647 5987
The Mad Cow Aerobatic Team flew into Secunda Airfield on Friday, 5 October, to entertain the spectators with an amazing array of tricks at Umuzi week of Festivals. The team landed and dropped off their luggage and one passenger before starting the briefing before the flight. The team, led by Scully Levin, would walk their routine in the formation they would fly. On Captain Scully’s right hand was Sally Levin in number 2 position, on his left hand was Sean Thackwray in the number 3 position and Arnie Meneghelli in the number 4 position. Scully talked the team through the whole routine: they walked forward turned around in a circle, walked forward: one person turned left, one kept on walking straight, another turned right while the fourth person walked around them as if flying underneath the team. Before strapping in, Sally Levin had an interview with the Bulletin where she spoke about the amazing sunset show over Lake Umuzi and the next morning’s show.
She also spoke about what it takes to become an aerobatic pilot and the commitment and passion needed to succeed in aerobatics. After finishing the morning show, the team returned to refuel at the Secunda airfield. As the team taxied onto the taxiway for departure, the first aircraft landed that had just finished the Speed Rally. With a scurry everyone was mobilised to push the aircraft out of the way of the incoming plane. That was
when everyone wished an aeroplane had reverse! All was done safely and swiftly. The sunset and morning shows were a glorious display of upside down and upside right flying. Three aircraft flying, turning and falling together as one. The brilliance of the shows lies with the pilots. Their commitment, passion and timing are a testimony to: “you can do anything you put your mind to!” - Ané Prinsloo
12 October 2018
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PROPERTIES eiendomme 2018 National Rally Champions to be crowned at Ermelo Rally & Motor show finale. Following a dramatic Lake Umuzi Rally in Secunda, Mpumalanga (28 & 29 September), the penultimate round of the SA National Rally Championship 2018, the final Ermelo Rally & Motor show (25-27 October) will see the two top contenders on equal points and the gloves now officially off for championship glory. Winning the class R2N national category, their first victory of the season, was AC Potgieter and Nico Schwartz (VW Polo). This naturally popular result for the young Secunda local could not have been more ideally timed, after their fierce championship rivals Guy Botterill and Simon Vacy-Lyle (Toyota Etios) rolled out of contention on stage ten of the 13 that made up the rally. Interestingly then, with each contender forced to drop their worst result of the year, the consistent Potgieter will have to drop 9 points (3rd place) from the York Rally in April, while Botterill will shake-off his most recent DNF, leaving both men on a total of 64 Points. This takes the epically climatic showdown to Ermelo on 26 & 27 October. And with the Ermelo Rally & Motor show event – backed by Tshwane Motor Club (TMC) - featuring an all-new layout of challenging stages in close radius to the centralised action of the Ermelo Showgrounds, it is anybody’s bet who will finish ahead of the other to claim ultimate 2018 honours. The scene is therefore set for this thrilling culmination. Remember too that Ermelo has not seen high-paced rally action for nearly a decade – although many are aware of its rich International Rally heritage. Therefore, it returns with nothing less than a huge bang in
2018 and with this in mind, organisers of the spectacle have structured this undoubted highpoint of the season around an awesome family-orientated Motor show combined with close by and easy-to-access spectator points. Spectators should be prepared to be enthralled by the lightning fast ‘youngguns’ of the R2N category - the top echelon of the sport in South Africa. These include dynamite VW Polos, Ford Fiestas, Toyota Etios’ and a fierce Mazda2. Moving down the order, there is a multitude of blisteringly fast competitors in both the Open and Classic classes. Apart from the fact that the Motor show will be the central hub of all the action with a multitude of family-based activities, it offers a brilliant yet inexpensive opportunity for keen businesses to not only market their brands, but become part of the extensive social and economic upliftment exercise, which aims to benefit the Ermelo community for many years to come. As a fundamental form of revenue to support the costs of staging the rally, the Motor show features the central service for the rally teams, but then will feature stands that are associated with motoring and general mobility in the area as well as live entertainment, a beer garden, extensive food and beverage stalls, an extreme fun-park and much more. The combination of the rally and Motor show is set to change the way rallying is perceived, not only in the area, but is an attempt to reinvigorate rallying by finding alternative ways to cover the costs of bringing the sport to towns that deserve it most – just like Ermelo. With this somewhat revolutionary approach, the man spearheading the organisational efforts of this unique
event is event director, rally veteran and passionate enthusiast Antonio Barbosa. “A great rally in this area has sadly been lacking for way too long now. Thankfully that is all about to change.” He remarks, “A key fundamental to our mission, it must be understood, is that it’s about more than just the rally, it’s very much about local upliftment and good old community spirit.” “Our organisational team is encouraging as many local business partnerships as possible for the facilitation of the goods and services required in the staging of this spectacle. We are doing everything in our power to outsource as little as humanly possible in the aim of uniting the community under rallying once again.” Barbosa further observed; “With a critical emphasis on local business involvement, this will go a long way in uplifting local trade and revitalising the innate attractions that made Ermelo such a popular rallying destination, over so many years,” “It must be said too, that based on the sensational reception and hospitality we instantly received from the good people of Ermelo, this is destined to be a truly unforgettable experience – for everyone involved… The atmosphere will be electric and the buzz around town will be unavoidable,” Barbosa concluded. Lately, Mpumalanga is undoubtedly the province to be if you are a petrol-head of any description – most especially if your poison is rallying. Be sure not to miss all the action of Ermelo National Rally & Motor show 2018 from Thursday 25 to Saturday 27 October. For more information check out @ ermelorally, follow #ermeloislekker or contact Steve Mearns on (+27)82 333 7898
Legal NOTICEs
Rally title decider for Ermelo
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2018
Bulletin Two weeks to go! With just over two weeks to go, Fightstar 36 promises to be an epic event. In a glorious showdown, local fighter Paul “Piksteel” Ronge will have a shot at the Featherweight Title when he faces Nathaniel Komane in the cage, here at the Arena in Graceland. Are you ready for “Piksteel” to become the interim Featherweight Champion in his first ever shot at the title? Come 20th October in his hometown, Secunda, “Piksteel” will have the opportunity of raising his hand and claiming that sought after belt. “Piksteel” who fights out of Dominator’s Den, owned and run by Cedric “The Dominator” Doyle, made his name when he entered the reality show, Searching for a Scrap, and has been riding a wave ever since. However, the bout on 20th October at Graceland Casino will be no walk over as he faces off with the undefeated new kid on the block Nathaniel Komane from Springs club House of Tinkerbell. Both athletes are looking forward to take this opportunity and make it their own. Other fights will also feature local fighters such as: Smit “Malboer” Steyn, Heindrich “The Hound Dog” Wiese, Vince “His Majesty” Nkosi, Cohen “Dr Kush” de Waal, Pieter “The Beast” van der Merwe and Stefan Diedericks. It will be “Malboer’s” first fight since injuring his arm in a title fight against Franscois Meyer. Fight Camp is in full swing with Coach Cedric “The Dominator” Doyle keeping his fighters fighting fit and honing their skills for their fights. The fights at Graceland promises to be a very entertaining event. Seats are limited and spectators should secure their seats soon to avoid dissapointment. Save the date! Buy your tickets and join the action!
20th October Graceland Casino Don’t miss all the action