ISSUE 215 - FREE
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MARCH 2019
COMMUNITY NEWS. ORIGINAL - ACCURATE - FIRST
017 631 1903 / 017 631 1845 • admin@thebulletin.co.za • 1 Kiewiet Street, Secunda (Lake Umuzi)
No end to storms surrounding mayor The storm surrounding the Mayor, Cllr Thandi Ngxonono, just don’t want to settle. Several parties are calling for her removal as well as from within her own party structures. Opposition parties called for a special council meeting as per the Standing Orders of the council to discuss a motion of No Confidence in the Mayor, but the speaker has ignored all requests using every excuse available to do so. Removal of the Mayor will also mean that the current Mayoral Committee will disband. Certain items of the council have to serve before council as legislation requires. It is with these items in mind that the speaker has now called for a Special Council Meeting on Tuesday, 12 March. Opposition parties have vowed to stick to their initial decision of not supporting council until their requests are taken seriously. The so-called G9 councillors (disgruntled ANC councillors) have now once again decided that their own demands are not met and their own party is not taking them seriously. The consequences of not complying with the legislative requirements are that the municipality might be placed under administration. If this happens the Mayor and the MMC’s will all revert back to being normal councillors. The Mayor is in the middle of an assault case where it is alleged that she, Cllr Thandi Ngxonono, assaulted one of the officials of Govan Mbeki. She appeared in court again on 5 March, standing accused of assaulting a municipal employee in 2018. The case has been postponed for the fourth time since October last year, this time due to recording equipment in the courtroom that was out of order. The DA, according to Caucus leader Ciska Jordaan, is unsatisfied that this
case will continue to hang over the head of the Executive Mayor and inevitably of the municipality as it has been ongoing for months on end. “Not only does it reflect poorly on the municipality, but also does it shift the focus of the ill-led ANC from the municipal services that are due to the residents of Govan Mbeki; proving that the majority party does not care about the wellbeing of our communities. Residents of Govan Mbeki will continue to suffer from the internal squabbles of the ANC and under the allegedly abusive Executive Mayor who clearly continues to abuse the powers of her office.” says Ciska. “The right thing for the ANC to do would be to deal with the motion of no confidence that has
been submitted by the Democratic Alliance in January and supported by other opposition parties. Sadly, however, the ANC appears to want to postpone this motion as well until the end of days.” “The lack of accountability and responsibility of the ANC and in particular the Mayor is worrying to all opposition parties but even more so for the DA,” said Ciska. “The DA will continue to fight for accountability and hold the ANC responsible for the actions and the injustices they force upon the residents of GMM.” In yet another protest march against the poor service delivery that GMM is famous for, several residents from Holfontein and Tweedraai
communities, just outside of Trichardt, marched peacefully to the municipality on Friday, 8 March, demanding service delivery from the Executive Mayor. “The DA takes note with concern that neither the Executive Mayor nor any of her mayoral committee even showed up to receive the memorandum that was presented by the community,” said Ciska Jordaan. ”These communities have been without services for years and are continuously ignored by the municipality.” In a response to a question to the Executive Mayor written by Ward Councillor Ciska Jordaan: “It is unsatisfactorily indicated that the municipality has no plans to supply temporary service delivery to these communities since they will apparently be moving them to allocated land next to Adullam.” However, shockingly, a site visit by the Cllr Ciska Jordaan and The Bulletin to the area revealed an open field which has clearly not had any feet on it for quite some time, much less any kind of construction or slight indication of preparation for housing these communities. The DA has been attempting to highlight the severe concerns of these communities who are continuously ignored in the proposed IDP, regardless of the DA Ward Councillor’s constructive submissions since 2016. “Residents have been without proper access to water, sanitation and electricity for years. This is no dignified way to live. “As the DA we will continue to call upon the Municipality to take serious cognisance of the residents that it serves and expose the ANC for the undignified living circumstances they impose on the residents of Holfontein and Tweedraai communities in Ward 25,” said Ciska.
Members of the Mayoral Committee. FLTR: CLLRs BB Ndaba, NN Zulu, MD Nhlapo, NE Nkosi, SA Makhaye and S Mahlangu
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Crime snippets Station commander welcomes sentencing of stock theft perpetrator
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The station commander of Bethal police, Lieutenant Colonel Petrus Nzima welcomes an eight-year direct imprisonment meted out to a sixtyeight-year-old (68) rustler (cattle thief), Buti Amos Skhosana. The sentencing was imposed by the Bethal Regional Court recently after founding the accused guilty of theft of stock or produce read with Sec 1 Act 57/1959. Skhosana was arrested and sentenced following an investigation conducted by Detective Constable Sikhumbuzo Vilanculo regarding fifteen bulls worth Hundred and Thirty Five Thousand Rand (R135 000.00) which were stolen at Naudesfontein farm near Bethal. During the investigation, police followed the tracks which led them to Skhosana’s place. Even though the bulls were not found at his place but only the ear-tags which were removed from the bulls and Mr Skhosana was nowhere to be found. Further investigation ensued at the local auctioneers and police managed to recover five bulls with the assistance of the employee to the complainant who identified them at the stock auction in Witbank. After Skhosana’s several court appearances, police Detective Constable Vilanculo managed to secure the sentence through disputes during cross examination by attorneys at Bethal Court. In terms of Section 103 Act 60/2000, Mr Skhosana was declared unfit to possess a fire-arm. The station commander applauded
the member for the great work for securing the conviction. “The sentencing of Skhosana will serve as a deterrent to others thinking of committing crime.” added Lt Col Petrus Nzima.
Prominent medical doctor killed, suspects sought Police in Mpumalanga are looking for suspects who robbed and killed a prominent medical doctor, Sunday night at Cassim Park, Ermelo. It is alleged that the group of unknown men arrived at the doctor’s surgery, which is situated on his residential premises, pretending they were seeking medical assistance and attacked him shortly thereafter. He was forcefully taken into the house wherein the suspects demanded that he shows them where the safe is, they then allegedly robbed him of his cell phone and strangled him before fleeing in his BMW 7 Series, which was later found abandoned next to a school in Wesselton. The victim’s body was later discovered by one of his friends who reportedly became worried when he (victim) did not pitch up for a pre-planned dinner. Upon arrival at the house, the friend reportedly noticed that the automated garage door was open and one of his vehicles was not in the garage. She reportedly entered the house and discovered the victim’s body sprawling on the floor and she speedily alerted the police. Police has opened a murder case and no arrest has been made as yet. Anyone with information that may assist in tracing the suspects as well as in the investigation is urged to contact Constable Bheki Masina at 082 373 8389 or the Crime Stop number 08600 10111. The Provincial Commissioner of the Police in Mpumalanga, Lieutenant Mondli Zuma, condemns in strongest possible terms this horrendous act. General Zuma reassured the community that the police will work around the clock to ensure that those responsible face the full might of the law.
Life imprisonment for rapist Last week, the Mbibana Regional Court, sentenced Stewart Shumba (29) to life imprisonment for housebreaking with intent to rape and rape of a 69-year-old woman in Phake Village. This incident happened in November 2016 at Van Dam Section C where Shumba broke into the victim’s house, attacked and raped her more than once. Luckily, the victim managed to open the window and went outside to her neighbours for asisstance. Community members and police were alerted, a search was conducted and Shumba was found hiding inside the garage and he was arrested.
15 March 2019 During the trial, the accused pleaded not guilty and the Regional Court Prosecutor, Rofhiwa Khorommbi, led testimonies of the victim who told the court that she did not know the accused but can only identify him. The state further led testimonies of the neighbour who found the accused hiding inside the victim’s house. Khorommbi also led testimonies of a forensic nurse, a J88 was also presented and the accused was found guilty as charged. During sentencing, the court found no compelling and substantial circumstances to deviate from the prescribed minimum sentence and the accused was sentenced to five years imprisonment for housebreaking with intent to rape and life imprisonment for the rape of a 69-year-old woman. Both sentences will run concurrently. The accused was declared unfit to possess a firearm and his name was entered into the Sexual Offences Register. The accused committed this crime while he was out on bail for a similar offence.
Rapist father sentenced to two life sentences Last week, the Mhala Regional Court, sentenced Dicks Nkuna (55) of Bushbuckridge to two life sentences after he was convicted of raping his two daughters, aged seven and nine, between 2013 and 2015 after the death of their mother. The court heard that after the death of the victims’ mother, who was the wife of the accused, their father would take turns to rape them as they were staying together in one house. In 2016, the rape ordeal was reported to a teacher at school who then reported the matter to the police and Nkuna was arrested. During trial, Nkuna pleaded not guilty. Regional Court Prosecutor, Kedibone Bareng, led testimonies of the victims’ aunt who reported the incident to a teacher and the evidence to the teacher. The state further led evidence of a doctor who examined the victims, a J88 report was also presented and the accused was found guilty on both counts. During sentencing, Magistrate Elmarie Pheron, told the court that the accused did not show remorse for his actions. He caused the victims to testify and relive the ordeal. As a father, he was supposed to protect and defend the victims after the death of their mother, he destroyed the level of trust between him and his kids. He then sentenced Nkuna to life imprisonment on each count of rape. The court ordered these sentences to run concurrently. Effectively, Nkuna will serve life imprisonment. Nkuna was declared unfit to possess a firearm and his name was entered into the Sexual Offences Register. The NPA will continue to strive for justice for vulnerable woman and children in our society.
Accident leaves passenger critically injured An accident occurred just outside of Bethal (from Ermelo side) late on Saturday night when the driver of a BMW allegedly failed to stop at the stop sign and slammed into the back of a Tolcon route patrol vehicle. Two people were injured in the accident. One of them complained that he could not feel his feet. The Bulletin has since learned that the passenger has suffered serious spinal injuries and that there is a high propability that he might be paralised from the neck down.
15 March 2019
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Selflessly in service of the community On Friday night, 8 March, the AfriForum Community Watch members all came together for a mass patrol. This mass patrol saw 48 members on the road patrolling in Secunda and surrounding areas to ensure the safety of the community. There are no benefits to gain from this service, except the knowledge that they are making a difference in the fight against crime in our community. Consider the past weekend’s statistics: Total kilometres: 1887 km Total vehicles on the road: 29 Total number of members patrolling: 48 members Total man hours: 401 hours No serious incidents were reported. Emergency services and towing companies also assisted the AfriForum members in ensuring the safety of our community. They included ZELLO Secunda 911 Assist 24/7, Langamed and Chaplain Brad Blake. Fireplace Roadhouse came to the party by donating burgers and cold drinks that filled empty stomachs of the AfriForum members and gave them the needed energy for the long night ahead. A long night ahead indeed, because the same members that patrolled during the night, also manned the AfriForum and Secunda 911 Assist 24/7 water point during the PwC Kosmos 3-in-1 on Saturday, 9 March! These members do not get paid to do this. They do everything for the safety of their community and all the people in the community. They put their lives on the line to save yours. AnÊ Prinsloo
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COMMUNITY NEWS ORIGINAL ACCURATE FIRST WE SET THE TREND OTHERS FOLLOW
15 March 2019
Ds Marius Britz As jy die Maandagoggend begin met katastrofe een vir die dag, is dit jou groot troos: verlof is om die draai! Uit pure baldadigheid begin jy sommer Koos Doep se liedjie kliphard sing: “As my wrak nog kan loop / en die pad is oop / en die wêreld lê alkant te koop / dan vat ek die pad / uit die bose ou stad”. Die kinders tel die slapies af totdat die wrak gepak word vir Jeffreysbaai. Dan begin die sorgelose ontspan, luilekker dae op die strand. Of so dink mens maar. Want die kernwoord in Koos Doep se liedjie, wat so argeloos gesing is, is “wrak”. Die langpad is juis die tyd waarin jy en jou motor se uithouvermoëns tot die uiterste beproef word. En so, in retrospektief, was bykans elke vakansie ‘n katastrofe in die kleine. Katastrofe 1: honderd kilometer van die huis af begin die kar galop, nies, hoes en hik. Die vonkpropdrade het gekraak, en moet vervang word in Hopetown. Die kinders word die hele vakansie se soetkoekies gevoer om hulle gelukkig te hou, en vier ure en 80% van ons vakansiebegroting later is ons weer op pad, verslae, maar nie verslane. Ons innerlike krag word deeglik beproef toe die uitlaatpyp ‘n entjie verder in Graaff-Reinet herstel moet word, en die kragstuurpomp nog ‘n entjie verder in Despatch. Gelukkig, dog brandarm, eet ons hot dogs die res van die vakansie, en geniet ons gate uit. Katastrofe 2 vind plaas met die volgende vakansie. Ons ou gesinnetjie tou af George toe met ons groot luuksheid, ‘n oú woonwa wat ons vir ‘n appel en ei iewers opgetel het. Behalwe dat die dak aanhou oopwaai, loop ons vakansie soos stroop. By George se woonwapark haak ons af, kaptein span die seile, en mammie pak ons beskuit en koekies in die kaste. Natuurlik neul die kinders om see toe te gaan, en ons sit die stuk in
Victoriabaai toe, waar daar gehol, geduik, gespeel en gelag word. Maar toe ek die motor aansluit, is daar een ontsaglike knal. Soos die kanon teen Tafelberg elke middag twaalfuur klink dit. En die masjien is dood. Soos ‘n mossie. Ná ‘n gesukkel spoor ek ene Fanie op, wat werk aan my soort motors. En dis geen probleem nie, hy sal ons sommer teen die opdraandes uit Victoriabaai uitsleep, en vinnig ons probleempie uitsorteer. Hy kom daar aan met ‘n verouderde outomatiese dieselmotortjie wat oor zero vermoë beskik om ‘n aanhangsel, tweekeer swaarder as hy self, gevul met ‘n man en vrou drie ontstigte kindertjies, opblaaseendjies, swemarmpies, grafies en emmertjies teen opdraandes uit te sleep. Drie keer stoor ons terug tot bykans agter die branders se breeklyn, en trek met ‘n groot gedruis weg. Net om vyftig meter te sien hoe Fanie se sleepvoertuig doodruk, en ons agteruit terugrol see se kant toe. Met ons gesinnetjie dan nou in omgekeerde posisie die sleepvoertuig. Drie grootoogkinders loer by die agtervensters uit. Vier van die vyf dae sit ons voertuigloos in die karavaanpark, vêr van alles, en leef uit die kiosk van blikkieskos. Heerlik! Katastrofe drie: ek versien die motor deeglik voor die vakansie. Van voor tot agter. Ons is dik vir die karavaan ná die George-episode, en besluit ons gaan weer Jeffreys toe. Daar is selfs plek vir ouma op die agtersitplek. Alles loop so glad soos ‘n Zoboklok tot in Port Elizabeth. Dan maak die kar so katjong-prrr. Tydketting het gebreek. Vrydag 1700B in weermagtaal. Spitsverkeer. Daar staan toevallig ‘n insleepvoertuig by die robot met twee operateurs, elkeen ‘n skuimkop in die hand, en toe hierdie CCmotor met sy ses insittendes die hele verkeer laat opdam, haak hulle ons, ten spyte van my protes, en sleep ons, soos die Grieks sê, meta spoudes, oftewel vrekvinnig, tot in Kwazekhele, waar ons terstond by ‘n vriend wat ‘n agterplaaswerktuigkundige is, afgelaai word. Gelukkig, behalwe vir die voorste buffer wat afgebreek het, geen ernstige skade of beserings nie. Hulle roeping is nou vervul, en dis
my saak hoe ek en vrou en kinders en ouma en 7 tasse en 20 blikke beskuit en koekies en houers vol speelgoed verder gaan. Gelukkig ken iemand in die skare iemand wat ‘n ou taxi het, weliswaar onpadvaardig en ongelisensieerd, maar wat bereid is om uit die goedheid van sy hart dit aan my te verhuur teen tweekeer my jaarlikse salaris. Ma loer verwese uit die agterste sitplek. Bra Buti’s tours, is bokant haar kop geverf aan die buitekant. Die kinders is verstom. En wederhelf klem op haar kake, haar gedagtes gevul met haar wyse pa se raad dat sy nooit met so flentergat soos ek moet trou nie. ‘n Ander keer ry ek en ma van Springs af karoo toe. Ma gaan by ons kuier, en die agtersitplek
is vol bierbokse met jamtertjies, koeksisters, koekies en goeters wat ma met liefde gebak het. Net buite Bloemhof maak die motor weer katjong-prrr. Dis ondraaglik warm. Dis dieselfde naweek as die Buffalorally by die Rob Ferreira-vakansieoord verder aan. Ons sit langs die pad, terwyl ma met haar sakdoekie die tertjies koud waai, en kliphard bid dat die Vader ons tog vandag moet beskerm teen die bose bebaarde en langhaarmense op hulle Harleys en BMW’s en Honda’s en Suzuki’s wat verbydreun Rally toe, daar waar ons tweetjies weerloos langs die pad sit en wag op beter dae. En so sou ek ‘n storie kon vertel oor my en ons motor in bykans elke dorp in Suid Afrika. Wat sê mens? Net een ding: “My frek, Marelize!”
Tannie Poppie se: Hoenderbobotie (Lewer 6 porsies) Hierdie gereg is altyd berei op die dag wanneer daar hoenders geslag is op die plaas. Só word dit ʼn delikatesse. Week die sultanas 2 uur in warm water. 500 g gaar hoenderborsies, in blokkies gesny 50 ml sultanas 2 uie fyngekap 250 ml melk 2 eiers, geklits 250 ml mayonnaise 20 ml appelkooskonfyt 10 ml suurlemoensap
1 pakkie (55g) hoenderroomsoppoeier 15 - 20 ml kerriepoeier 3 ml droë gemengde kruie Sout en peper na smaak 1. Voorverhit die oond tot 180 °C (350 °F). 2. Meng die hoender, sultanas en uie en skep in ʼn oondbak. 3. Meng die res van die bestanddele saam en gooi oor die hoendermengsel. 4. Meng alles liggies saam met ʼn vurk. 5. Bak 40 – 15 minute lank.
Die boek word deur Human & Rousseau uitgegee
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15 March 2019
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15 March 2019
Size does not matter! The Thick Queens Auditions took place on 23 and 24 February at eMbalenhle Sasol Club. The Thick Queens Auditions, founded by Mr Nicholas Mashiane, were to show people that modelling is not only for skinny models but that plus size is gorgeous too. The event also promoted local fashion designers and businesses who are keen and proud to be part of this initiative to teach the community’s young girls that being plus size is not what defines you as a person. The judges enjoyed their time tremendously and carefully judged the ladies in the respective categories. The judges were: Londy Heavens, Katlego Rapulane, Mancha Mmatloa, Lehutjo Ramathe, Dries Koekemoer, Gulden and Nonkululeko Gumede. Simon Masilela and Thabang Serebane entertained the crowd with
great music. The following sponsors will be part of the main event: NTT Nissan Secunda, RSTV, Royal Eagles Modelling, Bogart, Evelyn’s Spa, VOC Radio Network and Katana Guesthouse. The event had a big draw, not only from Mpumalanga, but also other provinces to take part in this amazing initiative. The main event is the Plus Size Fashion Display on 29 June at Lillian Ngoyi Centre and starts at 18H00. At this event local fashion designers and designers from other provinces will be showcasing their winter collections. Any interested designers are also welcome! Currently the selection process of the auditions is underway and the successful models will be notified in due time. Umkhulu noma umcane, zithande mfazi! – Ané Prinsloo
Breakfast with the SADFA The Brandwacht unit of Sector 1 Cosmos held their second breakfast of the year at the Kruik Café on Saturday. The breakfast was opened by the recently appointed Chaplain of the unit, Brad Blake. Brad used 1 Corinthians 1:10 from the New International Version (NIV) to illustrate the importance of not having any divisions among ourselves, but rather to be perfectly united in mind and thought. “In the world today we have a lot of people that while in front of you are the greatest of listeners and even pretend to be friends. However the moment you turn your back they will start to bad mouth and run you down.” he said. The SADFA’s creed reads:
“veteran’s changing the future and we as Christians and then specifically the veterans in this case, are called upon to be united as one. Not to be fighting among one another. We should all lead by example. The only example is that of Jesus Christ. When we see strangers they should see Jesus in us”. Encee van Huyssteen, a professional photographer, tutored the veterans on how to take worthy photos by just following a few basic rules: “one could even, with the use of modern cell phone’s photographic abilities, be able to take many photo memories” he said. The breakfast was enjoyed by all. - Aart Reedijk
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The Boer and Brit Day The 10th annual Boer and Brit Day will be held on 30 March at Val. At dawn, “boeretroos” (coffee) will be ready, the train arrives from Standerton at 07H10 and breakfast will be ready at 07H30. A bus will depart at 08H00 from the Military History Museum, Saxonwold, Johannesburg. David Scholtz will welcome festival goers after the arrival of the bus. Stalls will be ready for business and a street parade will take place at 10am, after which the prizegiving for the best dressed Boer and Briton and best stall will take place. A convoy will leave at 10H30 to the so named “Whiskey Train” incident for the mock battle of "The Dop". Lunch, consisting of traditional dishes, will take place at 12H00. Guest speakers Jackie Grobler, Louis Changuion and Juliette Whelptonin will deliver speeches at the hotel’s banquet area at 13H00. John Edmund is responsible for the music at the festivity. The History of Val Dr Johnson, the famous 18th century sage who compiled the first English language dictionary, observed rightly: "There is nothing which has been contrived by Man which produces so much happiness as a good Tavern or Inn." More than a hundred years ago, Joseph Smith and his Kerslake stepsons acquired a farm at Oudehoutspruit on the banks of the Waterval River. An Inn was established that would serve as the stagecoach route from the goldfields of the Lowveld to Johannesburg. The first Post Office stamp was dated "Waterval 1888". It closed for the duration of the Boer War and reopened on 1 January 1901 for Military Traffic and on 1 October 1901 for civil traffic. It seems that the Waterval Post Office at the Stagecoach Inn and the Val Post Office ran concurrently for some time. The Waterval Post Office only closed in 1902. President Paul Kruger decided that the now affluent Transvaal province needed a railway line. Surveyors were commissioned. The temperamental Waterval River flooded its banks the night these surveyors lodged at Jos Smith's Inn. Everyone was evacuated. Jos, being
a keen businessman, offered the government the use of a portion of his land on higher ground. The typical highveld town of Waterval was established with a railway station, general dealer, hotel, Post Office, blacksmith of Horace Fry and roller mill owned by Mr. Ambrotius. In 1896 the railway line en route to Durban was officially opened with great pomp and ceremony. Elizabeth Smith buried a time capsule under one of the columns of the railway bridge. This harmonious micro-cosmopolitan settlement was upset when war was declared in 1899 and neighbours would find themselves at war with some of their best friends. Joseph Smith, being on amicable terms with his Afrikaner neighbours, declared his neutrality and was deported for the duration of the war while Elizabeth ran the businesses and the farm. It is said that while she and her Afrikaner neighbours were enjoying tea on the front stoep, she would serve rations and refreshments to English soldiers at the kitchen door! The Waterval Camp was Private Tucker's favourite camp, as described in his "Boer War Diary". Although no big battlefields are to be found in this area, the stage was set for many anecdotes and daily skirmishes between the Boers and the British. On 29 December 1900, the famous "Whiskey Train" incident occurred. The story according to Private Tucker: "some time during the morning the Boers had held up a train about six miles away. The train was partly loaded with canteen goods, also forage and a quantity of bottled beer, spirits and champagne. The Boers took all the liquors away on five ox wagons loaded with goods." The site of the Whisky Train is situated about 4 km from Val. Afrikaner families joining forces with the English created more bitterness. It is said that these traitors sat on the front of the horse and cart to point out the various farms that the English would burn down. Incidents such as these caused many Afrikaners of the area to join Jan Smuts in his "Forgive and Forget" policy of a united South Africa, which would ensure harmony for all nationalities. For, they said: "If our own people could betray us during the war, surely we can forgive the English."
It was about this time that the name Waterval was officially changed to Val. There are even rumours that Oom Paul Kruger had a sweetheart by the name of Valerie, but rumours such as these are whispered among the gossipers, as we all know Oom Paul was a man of the Church and so busy that he would not have had the time or energy for little lady friends. Val had another distinguished visitor when Ghandi travelled along the railway line from Durban to Johannesburg on his peace march. He was arrested and imprisoned at Val and Mr. Janoo's grandmother had to prepare a vegetarian meal for him. When asked what it was like to know that such a famous person had spent the night in Val jail, an old member of the community dryly retorted: "What a nuisance that Indian with the diaper was!" Val remained a lively hamlet, serving the farming community well until the 1970's when the railway station closed and the hotel became derelict. It seemed that the whole town was slowly dying like many other little towns in South Africa when the platteland became depopulated. On 6 July 1994, the Val Hotel was put up for auction and André & Rita Britz bought it and lovingly restored it to its former glory. The couple had reason to be excited about their acquisition: Rita's ancestors, the van den Berg, Steyn and Engelbrecht families, had been farmers at Val for eight generations since 1886. André and Rita were married at the Val Church in 1982. The area today, is rich in historical sites dating from the Stone Age ("As old as God", according to archaeologist Rob Milne).
The koppies at Greylingstad and Val are dotted with ruins, which must have been a settlement as big as any modern city! The Hamlet of Val consists of three streets, namely: Joseph- and Elizabeth Streets (on the wrong side of the tracks) and Smith Street, which is situated on the "right" side of the tracks, according to inhabitants of Smith Street. The Southern side of town consists of the old school, the co-op, a general dealer and the store of Latib Janoo & Son. On the Northern side of town, you will find G.C. Tillage (manufacturer of farming equipment), the sports club (cricket, squash, tennis, polo cross) the butcher's shop, the old shop of Joseph Smith and Sons, the hotel, the police station, four houses, the old station building and the old post office with farm exchange. The Church of St. Francis of Assisi, Val, was built in 1964. Mrs. Helen Lawrence's design was used and the Smith family donated the land. In 1970 the church was struck by lightning and burned down. In 1971 it was rebuilt, and a vestry was added. - Aart Reedijk Source: Val Hotel’s website.
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15 March 2019
SERVICES Gert Sibande TVET Colledge Gala event TO ADVERTISE CALL: 017 631 1903 017 631 1845
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Thursday, 7 March, saw an evening of pomp and glamour with evening gowns and suits. The Gert Sibande TVET College hosted a Stakeholder Gala Event at the Graceland Hotel, Casino and Country Club. Various speakers had the opportunity to speak about TVET colleges and the 4th Industrial Revolution. Ms M. Ndou from Sasol spoke about the expectations of the industry from TVET colleges in the 4th Industrial Revolution. Ms H. Ntlatleng from ARM GP/FS spoke about the use of innovation, entrepreneurship and technology as a way to improve the relevance of TVET’S in the 4th Industrial Revolution. Dr R. Patel spoke about the pace of change and repositioning of TVET college offering. The keynote was delivered by Ms M. Anno-Frempong (TETA SETA)
and her message was: The relevant capabilities required to produce a skilled workforce in the 4th Industrial Revolution. One message that was very relevant was that TVET colleges had to look inwards to improve on the way that colleges train their students. Colleges in certain countries have to produce patients and in South Africa the colleges are seen as higher education institutions. This perception has to change. The guests were treated to a wonderful rendition of the Click Song by Miriam Makeba and a fashion show with dresses made by the facilitators at Gert Sibande TVET colleges. One thing is certain, education is the best weapon to fight poverty and the TVET colleges are ideally suited to educate the learners.
Dr Raymond Patel
Sasol Mining hands over 21 houses as part of its Housing Project Secunda, Mpumalanga – Sasol Mining, in partnership with First National Bank hosted a hand-over ceremony at Secunda Ext 23, which saw 21 houses handed over to its employees. The handover brings the total number to 200 houses handed over by Sasol Mining in Secunda. Sasol Mining recognises the importance of decent housing for its employees. These homes are
an adequate size with essential infrastructure such as water, sanitation and electricity. “The promotion of home ownership forms part of our broader transformation goals which ensure that the areas in which we operate in benefit from our presence and that we leave a positive legacy. Wherever we operate, there must be clear progress as we are about improving
the lives of employees both at work and outside of work. We yearn for our employees to have a place they call home, a place of safety”, says Lucky Kgatle, Sasol Mining Senior Vice President. The provision of housing to Sasol Mining employees is a continuous process. This initiative is in accordance with the Social and Labour Plan of the Mining Charter.
Sasol adopts BEE Verification Agent Process for SOLBE1shareholders Johannesburg, South Africa – Sasol has adopted the BEE Verification Agent Process for purchasers of Sasol BEE ordinary (SOLBE1) shares with effect from 11 March 2019 that will simplify the process to verify their BEE compliance requirements. This follows the separate class meeting of SOLBE1 shareholders and the annual
general meeting of Sasol ordinary shareholders on 16 November 2018, where Sasol obtained shareholder approval to adopt the BEE Verification Agent Process. Previously, SOLBE1 shareholders and prospective purchasers of SOLBE1 shares were required to follow the BEE Contract Verification
If you, as our loyal readers, would like to express your opinions on these letters, please feel free to contact the Editor of the Bulletin: editor@thebulletin.co.za
A community divided and confused. What is the function of a local worker’s forum? To my knowledge it is to help the unemployed community in our GMM to get employment. But if we hear the word forum it becomes like something out of a mafia movie. We fear that some of the forums now go from town to town to fight within our community. We, in Ext. 25 (Afghanistan, Kinross), had that experience last week. While we were busy with our local weekly feedback meeting, a violent group from eMbalenhle came storming into the hall and kept us hostage. We called for help from the local police who only arrived an hour later. The group claimed to be the only forum in the GMM, but we
Process to verify their BEE compliance which required them to sign a BEE Contract. The implementation of the BEE Verification Agent Process means that, with effect from 11 March 2019: i. all BEE Contracts entered into by SOLBE1 shareholders will terminate; ii. the rights and obligations of all SOLBE1 shareholders
do not know them. We have our own leaders who were chosen by our local community. The group from company to company to negotiate on our behalf. We work together with Bethal, Leslie, eMba GMM and Charl Cilliers who do not engage in violent activities. They do not have the right to force us to join them. The main vision of these forums is to get people employment so that the poverty and crime can go down in our area. This group from eMbalenhle, is promoting crime and gangsterism in our area. All we want are jobs and skills training. We are sick and tired of crime. We want this for everyone in our area and communities. They chased out all the Coloureds, Indians and Whites, claiming that the forums are only for Blacks. He is racist and discriminate against other citizens. So, he is nothing but a stupid criminal. To be racist is a crime, discrimination is a crime, to force someone is a crime, to threaten people is a crime. They went to Leandra and threatened people at
will be governed by the provisions of Schedule 6 of Sasol’s memorandum of incorporation; and iii. the signing of a BEE Contract by a prospective purchaser of SOLBE1 shares will no longer be required. Sasol’s BEE Verification Agent is Computershare Investor Services (Pty) Limited.
their homes. These guys need to be stopped before someone dies. They attacked a guy in his office in Secunda (Lulaway). We in Afghan live with all races in peace. We are united and will continue to live together in peace. How can a company give us work if we discriminate against other people? The guys from KAUF who invited them to come and make trouble here must know that they divide and destroy your beloved community. We didn’t have a problem in Kinross, but now we have a big problem. Do you realise that you just signed on as a member of a gang? To get out of the gang won’t be easy. You belong to the king now. A king without a vision is useless. Thanks to all the good leaders. We salute you. – Concerned Resident from Afghan. This letter was received by the Bulletin as printed by the writer. The Bulletin accepts no responsibility for the correctness of the facts of the article.
15 March 2019
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Laerskool Goedehoop spog graag met leerders en onnies Chester Williams kuier by LS Goedehoop
Chester Williams het Saterdag, 9 Maart, by Laerskool Goedehoop gekuier by hulle sportdag. Al die ouers en jong rugby spelers het die tyd vreeslik saam met hom geniet! Die 0/9 rugbyspan, Mnr Meyer en Chester.
Saterdag, 9 Maart, het Me. Biance van der Merwe, Me. Jeanette Roux, Me. Roné van der Merwe hul Atletiek ASA Vlak 1 behaal. Hierdie akkreditasie stel hulle in staat om as beamptes tot by SA’s Atletiek op te tree.
Irene en Marnus wen gholfdag
Die SPO-Atletiek het Woensdag, 6 Maart, te L/S Tasbetpark, Witbank, plaasgevind. Dertien skole van Mpumalanga het deelgeneem. Dié 9 maats het baie hard geoefen en het ons 3 eerste plekke, 1 tweede plek en 3 derde plekke verower, wat ons totaal van 7 medaljes gee by die byeenkoms. Wel gedaan! Voor: Sadie Marnewick (1ste Verspring, 2de 80 m), Jayden Westenraadt, Justin Barrows (1ste Gewigstoot), Timothy Harris, Jeandré van Blommestein. Agter: Ronelda van Nieuwenhuysen, Destiny Marnewick (1ste Gewigstoot, 1ste Verspring, 3de 80 m, 3de Hoogspring), Natasha de Jager, Nathan Moruke.
Op Vrydag, 8 Maart en Saterdag, 9 Maart het die Super 12 Redenaars te L/S Wierdapark, Pretoria plaasgevind. Minke Coetzer (Gr. 1 – 3), An-Euné van Niekerk (Gr. 4 – 5) en Juandri Fourie (Gr. 6 – 7) dring deur na hul betrokke ouderdomsgroep se finaal. Goedehoop behaal ‘n algehele 12de plek uit 24 skole. Voor: Amy-Leigh van der Merwe (Gr. 1 – 3), Nika Thomas (Span), Kayla Hurter (Gr. 6 – 7 & Span), Wernich Rossouw (Span), Minke Coetzer (Gr 1–3, Finaal). Agter: Me. Janette Coetzee (Afrigter), An-Euné van Niekerk (Gr. 4 – 5, Finaal), Juandri Fourie (Gr. 6 – 7, Finaal), Karli van Schalkwyk (Gr. 4 – 5), Me. Anneke McLean (Afrigter). Afwesig: Elri Jacobs
Vrydag, 8 Maart, het die Onderwysersgholf te Graceland plaasgevind. Goedehoop stap weg as die wenners met Me. Irene van Jaarsveld wat die dames IPS wen en Mnr. Marnus Meiring wen die mans IPS. Wernich Rossouw het 25 – 27 Januarie aan die Mpumalanga Finale Tennisproewe deelgeneem. Hy verteenwoordig Mpumalanga 15 – 19 Maart in Bloemfontein tydens die jaarlikse SA Interprovinsiale Tennistoernooi.
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15 March 2019
By Laerskool Secunda is elke kind 'n wenner Regs: Laerskool Secunda leerlinge het deelgeneem aan die Mpumalanga Stoeivereniging beginners toernooi op 2 Maart en het daar die volgende plekke behaal: Sarah-Ann Francke (1ste plek), Brüssow Francke (1ste plek in die Tuks Challenge asook medalje vir deelname) en Paul Wilken (3de plek) Links: Riley-John Black van Laerskool Secunda het op 2 Maart aan ‘n Taekwondo kompetisie deelgeneem in Pretoria waar hy baie goed gevaar het. Hy het die volgende posisies behaal: Goud vir sparring, silwer vir vorm, silwer vir wapen-vorm en brons vir geveg.
Victory at MUSSA for Siyanda
Hoërskool Secunda wen Interhoër vir die vyfde jaar
Foto: JK Photography
Hoërskool Secunda wen die interhoër al 5 jaar in ‘n ry. Die dogters het 1ste gekom en die seuns 2de. Hoërskool Secunda Individuele Atletiek Trofees: Beste Junior Seun Naellope: Siyanda Mkonza; Senior Dogter Naellope: Refilwe Makola; Beste Junior Seun Hekkies: Tiaan de la rey; Beste Junior en Senior Dogter Middel/langafstande: Meceila Brits; Beste Senior dogter worpe: Nicole Lindeque en Junior Victrix ludorum: Suné Stander
12 van Hoërskool Secunda se atlete gaan SA’s toe
Voor: Liane Parkes (3000) SASA, Nicole Lindeque (SG) SASA & ASA, Me. Christelle Matfield, Mnr. George Matfield, Mnr. Mike van der Walt, Jessica vd Berg (GS) SASA. Agter: Oratile Molaba (400) SASA & ASA, Meceila Brits (1500,3000) SASA, Suné Stander (HS) SASA, Phillip Matfield (HS) SASA & ASA, Wilber Metler (HS) SASA & ASA, Nicolene Jv Rensburg (SG) SASA & ASA, Johanné Fourie (SG) SASA & ASA, Michelle Parkes (1500,3000) SASA & ASA, Refilwe Makola (100, 200, Aflos) SASA & ASA.
Laerskool Kruinpark het 9 Maart hulle Kleuter Sportdag gehad, waartydens die Gr 000 tot by Gr R hulle kon kom geniet het! Elkeen het die geleentheid gehad om te hardloop, verspring, hoogspring en gewigstoot te doen. Elke kleuter is ‘n wenner en het ‘n pragtige medalje gekry!
TP Stratten is extremely proud of Siyanda Mkhonza, Gr 7 pupil. He won the 100m for 0/14 boys. He took part in the MUSSA Championships on Saturday, 2 March, at the Secunda Stadium. Congratulating him is Mr Mossie Ourique, principal.
Jim van Tonderskool se Superkids vir kwartaal 1
Voor: Moses Kavari, Jandrè Yssel en Zanele Mkwebane Agter: Michelle Goosen,Yolandi Schoeman en Chrizette Botma.
15 March 2019
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Hoërskool Oosterland beats Hoërskool Delmas A festive atmosphere reigned at Hoërskool Oosterland (Oosies) on Friday, 8 March, as they faced Delmas in Rugby, Hockey and Netball. There were a number of small stalls where one could purchase various sweet things. The Cafeteria served various items including “slap chips” and Boerewors rolls. But all the attention was focused on the various sports fields where fierce battles were fought, all in good spirit of course. Oosterland did well against their worthy opponents. Both Oosterland and Delmas displayed good discipline and the respective headmasters can be proud of their children. The various scores and results are as follows: Netball: U/14 A: 22 - 5. U/14 B: 7 - 5. U/15 A drew 15 each. U/16A: 19 – 13. 2nds: 17 – 6 and the 1st team
won 23 - 12. Chess: Oosies lost with one point, 9,5 to 10,5. Rugby: U/14 lost 19 - 7. U/15: 44 - 7. U/16 lost 26 - 19. 2nds won 29-22. 1st team won 49 - 10. Hockey: U/14 lost 1 - 3. U/15 drew 1 1. U/16 lost 0 - 10. 2nds won 4 - 1. Girls 1st team lost 0 - 2 and the Boys 1st team won 4 - 0. The rugby game was played against an equal opponent but one that lacked the will to win such as Oosies did. Oosterland played an attacking game from the kick-off, creating pressure that Delmas never really knew how to counter. The boys from Delmas looked slightly larger but could not capitalise on their size advantage. This does not mean that Delmas didn’t try, they surely did but was met with determined defence every time they tried to break through Oosterland’s
defences. Oosterland scored at regular intervals and kept the scorecard ticking. The forwards played as a unit and was seldom seen resting in the backline if ever. The support was always there when needed. The scrums coped well against a slightly stronger group of forwards and managed to push back on a few occasions. The lineouts seemed well rehearsed and very little ball was lost in the lineouts. The back line attacked with vigour and managed to create an overlap on several occasions. This thinned the defence lines of Delmas and Oosies had options for attacking. The overall performance of Oosterland was that of a well-trained team, a team that is playing together as a team. This is a good platform for the rest of the games.
The first try of the first team’s match.
Sasol 1 Cricket Club secures a place in Mpumalanga Premier League Final Sasol 1 Cricket Club, from Secunda, beats the Witbank Snipers in a thrilling match to secure a place in the Mpumalanga Premier League Final. Sasol 1 Cricket Club will be travelling to Hoërskool Bergvlam this coming Sunday to take on Nelspruit Cricket Club in the Mpumalanga 50 Over Premier League final after narrowly winning Witbank Snipers with 8 runs
in the semi-final at Sasol Recreational Club on Sunday, 10 March. Sasol 1 set up a target of 182 for the Snipers to chase down. Sasol 1 was in big trouble being 5 down for only 69 runs before Siya Mahima (39) and Douglas Richardson (45) set up a partnership of 64 runs. Sasol 1 managed to score 181 all out in 47.2 overs. In return the Snipers had a solid
Curro Castle enjoys mini athletics Curro Castle had their mini athletics on Saturday, 9 March. The children had a chance to try hurdles, noodle throw, jumping blocks and many more activities. Even though the day was enjoyed by all the children it was evident that the parents and grandparents enjoyed it more than their little ones!
opening stand of 92 runs before Siya Mahima made a breakthrough. Ruhan Delport had an amazing spell of bowling, taking 5 wickets for 35 runs in his 10 overs. Sasol 1 managed to bowl the Snipers out for 173 runs in the 49th over to secure an 8 run victory in a nail biting match. Thanks to the Snipers for a wonderful game of cricket, it was a pleasure
hosting you guys. Sasol 1 will now be seeking to make it a double after winning the T20 competition in November. We are looking forward to the challenge of travelling to Nelspruit and taking on a very strong Nelspruit team in their home conditions. We hope to return victorious and bring the victory home, not only for the club but Secunda too. - Ignus Koekemoer
15 MARCH
2019
Bulletin
Record entries for PwC Kosmos 3-in-1
Saturday, 9 March, saw the completion of yet another gruelling yet successful PwC Kosmos 3-in-1 race. It was blood sweat and tears as runners tackled the individual races. There was yet again a record number of entries as the PwC Kosmos 3-in-1 continues to grow as one of the most popular races around. With over 8300 entries it is clearly the race to be competing in. The morning started very early as runners and supporters alike tackled the access road to the start of the 42.2 km race and the first leg of the PwC Kosmos 3-in-1. The start was packed with 2558 entries. Those runners that did not make it to the front took a very long time before they could start
running. The marathon section was ran at a blistering pace with weather suitable for good running. The day only heated up around lunch time and the runners could enjoy running in cooler, rainier weather in the morning. The next race, 21.1 km, took place in the middle of the day. It was difficult to rest properly after the gruelling 42. 2 km race. Fortunately, runners could visit the massage tent to have professional staff massage their weary legs. The 2733 entrants took to the shorter route and ran a fast time but could not break the record. The last race, the 10 km, started at 17H00 with 3015 entrants hoping to set a good time. The route was
shorter but still took its toll on the 3-in-1 entrants. The day was a huge success and congratulations to Secunda Marathon Club for helping to organise such an event. With a record 8306 entrants it is clear that the PwC Kosmos 3-in-1 is growing every year in popularity. The 42. 2 km race is also a Comrades Marathon qualifier. The water points were a competition on its own. The creativity was tested with new ideas on how to win the sought-after trophy as the best water point. Laerskool Secunda took the overall first place as the best water point! Well done! Thank you to all the sponsors for making this race possible, without the sponsors it would be difficult to host an
event such as this: PwC (the main sponsor), Secunda Marathon Club, Lake Umuzi, Sanitech, Mediclinic, Finishtime, The Bulletin, Interwaste, Modern Athlete, Coca-Cola and #runclean. As the sun set on Lake Umuzi, runners and supporters alike settled down to rest their weary bones and as the gazebos were packed, the sound died down and a quietness settled on Lake Umuzi only to be broken by the occasional cheers of those that still enjoyed a well deserved iced drink.
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