The Bulletin Newspaper - 8 November 2019

Page 1

ISSUE 248 - FREE

8

NOVEMBER 2019

COMMUNITY NEWS. ORIGINAL - ACCURATE - FIRST

017 631 1903 / 017 631 1845 • admin@thebulletin.co.za • 1 Kiewiet Street, Secunda (Lake Umuzi)

Interruptions again? An Eskom notice yet again! This creates the impression that payments are made according to plan but are in effect not the true up to date figures. The core problem is also not addressed by GMM. In July the Mayoral committee resolved: That it BE ACKNOWLEDGED that the municipality is losing approximately 50% in each Rand purchased from Eskom. This is a huge sum, one that the municipality can ill afford. The Bulletin spoke to Cllr Ciska Jordaan, Caucus leader of the DA regarding the pending disruption. “After querying the matter with the finance department of the municipality, the DA has learnt that the Municipal Manager has been engaging with ESKOM to negotiate for payment that would suffice avoiding the mentioned cut off. The MMC of Finance has communicated

ID 92975139 © Lane Erickson | Dreamstime.com

E

skom issued a notice to Govan Mbeki Municipality regarding pending disruptions of the power supply to Govan Mbeki Municipality (GMM). According to the notice there are two main accounts that are outstanding that should have been paid as part of the Eskom agreement. The letter by Eskom’s Middle Manager Customer Relations, Mr Chris Greg Lekhuleni was addressed to the current Municipal Manager of Govan Mbeki Municipality, Mr Felani Mndebele. The letter stated the following: I refer to the above matter and confirm that the Govan Mbeki Local

Municipality is in breach of the supply agreement entered into between Govan Mbeki Local Munic-ipality and Eskom in that your monthly accounts in respect of all accounts have not been settled in full. Eskom continues to put emphasis on the fact that GMM is not keeping to their promises. The GMM administration continues to table reports to council regarding the Eskom and Rand Water accounts. The report is detailed with figures regarding the payments and what the arrangement was. Unfortunately, the council item only reflects until September and not in October.

with confidence to the DA that the matter will be resolved through ongoing engagement with ESKOM,” said Ciska. “However, the DA remains concerned that the large amount demanded by ESKOM appears to be rather unrealistic when comparing to the average of R 22.5 million that the municipality has been able to pay over the last 9 months. Presumably, the municipality would negotiate to decrease the demanded amount to one that is payable.” Ciska continued: “Furthermore, the DA is troubled by the lack of political will with which the ANC-led municipality has been addressing the reasons for the consistent escalation of the ESKOM debt. The council is yet to receive the outcome of a water and electricity meter audit that was conducted from August to October this year, which is said to intend to rectify illegal connections and ghost vending within Govan Mbeki. Even though the report has not yet been made available to the council, it is difficult to understand why the municipality did not proactively rectify these contraventions on the spot during the audit. If they had, it would have been evident in the account that the municipality has been receiving monthly from ESKOM.” The Bulletin asked GMM for their response and received the following: “The Govan Mbeki municipality is currently in high level engagements with Eskom. We are confident that these engagements will yield positive results.” The embattled municipality will continue to struggle while the nonpayment of accounts continues.


NEWS

2

8 November 2019

Premier Mtshweni-Tsipane applauds the Springboks as the new Rugby World Cup Champions Mpumalanga Premier, Ms Refilwe Mtshweni-Tsipane and her cabinet applaud the Springbok Rugby team as new champions. The Springbok claimed victory against the muchfancied English team in Japan, winning the game 32-12. Mtshweni-Tsipane said that the win is an outcome of patriotism displayed by team Captain, Siyamthanda Kolisi and all the players under coach Rassie Erasmus. “This victory gives us hope that if we work together as a nation, we can achieve many things,” the Premier said. She said that the victory by Amabhokobhoko have once again given the province and the country reasons to celebrate despite diversity. Mtshweni-Tsipane added that apart from patriotism, Mpumalanga must celebrate the victory in recognition

of the five (5) players in the squad whose roots can be traced from the province. “We are more than delighted as a province. The players from Mpumalanga have not only put our province on the world map but have further affirmed our province as a sporting province,” the Premier added. Mtshweni-Tsipane called on communities in Mpumalanga to use the Springboks’ victory as a perfect example of what can be achieved if we work together as a nation.

Photo: https://www.google.com/ amp/s/ewn.co.za/2019/11/03/southafricans-celebrate-unity-brought-byspringboks-rwc-victory/amp

sentenced to life imprisonment

Crime

snippets Provincial commissioner warns members not to take law into their own hands The Provincial Commissioner of the South African Police Service in Mpumalanga, Lieutenant General Mondli Zuma, hereby warns members of the community not to take law into their own hands. The warning by General Zuma came after members of the community at Anthol Trust, near Hazyview, set alight two huts belonging to two men who are suspected of have amputated a 13-year-old boy’s leg with a panga. It is alleged that police received information of a child whose leg had been cut off by two men. They immediately rushed to the scene and found the boy’s leg amputated. The community members proceeded to the place where the alleged suspects reside and set alight two huts. No one had been arrested as yet, police are investigating a case of arson as well as an attempted murder case. Anyone with information is urged to contact Captain France Mhlongo on 072 624 5133 or the SAPS Crime Stop number 08600 10111.

Child rapist

On Thursday, 24 October, the KwaMhlanga Regional Court sentenced Khekhi William Baloyi (41) to life imprisonment after convicting him for rape of a 7-year-old girl he committed three years ago. The court heard that on 7 August 2016, the victim went to play with the accused’s son when he called her to the room. The accused told her to undress her skirt, he closed her mouth with a tape and forcefully raped her. He gave her R5 and a packet of chips. The victim immediately informed her mother about the ordeal, who alerted the police. During trial, the accused pleaded not guilty and, in his defence, alleged that the victim was playing with his son and other kids all the time. Regional Court Prosecutor Bianca Harmse led evidence of the victim who told the court that she sustained injuries when the accused raped her and that of the victim’s mother who reported the incident to the police. The state further led evidence of the investigating officer and the accused was positively linked to the crime through DNA. A medical report was also handed in. Addressing the court for an appropriate sentence, Prosecutor Harmse, stated that the accused was convicted of a serious offence, an offence that is prevalent in the area KwaMhlanga and has shown no remorse for his actions. Baloyi was sentenced to life imprisonment. The court ordered that the name of the accused be entered into the National Sexual Offences Register. He was found unfit to possess a firearm and was declared unfit to work with children. The NPA applauds the good work done by the team in addressing the scourge of sexual violence in our society.

Two people killed suspects sought Police in Mpumalanga are looking for suspects who killed two people at Marloth Park near Komatipoort. It is alleged that on 30 October at about 15:00, a family of four were in their house at Marloth Park when two suspects approached. They demanded work to which the family said there was none at the moment that they could offer. Suddenly more men appeared, with one of them wielding a firearm. The suspects tied the victims up and covered their mouths with cloths.

They took some valuable items and fled the scene. Two victims, the owner of the house and a female visitor, later suffocated to death as a result of gagging while the other two, the wife and daughter, survived. Police opened two counts of murder and hereby urges anyone with information that may assist in tracing the suspects to contact Sergeant Vusi Moses Thobela on 082 449 0242 or the SAPS Crime Stop number 08600 10111. In a separate incident a 44-year-old woman was butchered with a machete (panga) at the De Harp Inyoni Farm in Komatipoort. It is alleged that on 30 October a 35-year-old man was arrested for brutally killing the mother of his ex-girlfriend. The deceased was found with wounds and her left arm chopped off. Upon arrival (of police) at the suspect’s place they found him with a panga believed to be the murder weapon. He was arrested and will appear at the Komatipoort Magistrate’s Court on 1 November.

Vehicle recovered with suspected explosive items, suspects sought On Sunday, 3 November, at approximately 23:22, police received information regarding a suspected stolen silver SUV with a Mpumalanga registration number plate. It is alleged that the motor vehicle was stolen in the area of Brondel near White River at gun point and police received a notification on their technical devices. The police wasted no time but immediately began to trace the vehicle. Police followed leads to various areas where the vehicle was travelling, including Kabokweni and Masoyi near White River. Later the vehicle was found left abondoned by suspects in a place called Chweni in Masoyi near White River. By the time the police arrived at the place where the vehicle was, suspects had already fled the scene On inspection of the vehicle, police found what was suspected to be explosive items and the bomb squad was summoned to the scene to assist. The Forensic Team also visited the scene. The police calls on anyone with information that can assist in apprehending the suspects of this crime but not to confront these suspects on their own as this might put their lives in danger, however members of the community can call police on 10111.


NEWS

8 November 2019

3

GMM placed under administration! Or not?

A message is doing the rounds regarding the possibility of placing of three municipalities under administration in Mpumalanga. Residents have posted the message on all social media platforms and residents were buzzing with conversations about the possibility of it not being a hoax. The message reads as follows: “The Mpumalanga Government has placed three municipalities under administration. The province’s executive council has also directed investigations in the municipalities into allegations of maladministration, fraud and corruption. Investigations in the Siyabuswa municipality near the Limpopo border, the Govan Mbeki municipality in Secunda and the Doctor Pixley Ka Seme municipality in Volksrust follow amid poor service delivery. The government says the investigations are expected to be completed in two months.” Mpumalanga government spokesperson, Sibongile MkaniMpolweni, responded with the following: “Please note that this is inaccurate No Municipality has been put under administration. Please read the statement and the definition of the ACT properly.” The full statement reads as follows: “The Executive Council held its ordinary sitting on Wednesday the 30th of October 2019 at Mbombela. MUNICIPAL SUPPORT Executive Council acknowledges the Constitutional obligation by the Provincial and National Government to support Municipalities as enshrined in Section 154. As such EXCO resolved to invoke Section 106 (1) (b) of the Local Government: Municipal Systems Act, 2000 to three Municipalities to give effect to the support.” The Act states: If an MEC has reason to believe that a municipality in the province cannot or does not fulfil a statutory obligation binding on that municipality or that maladministration, fraud, corruption or any other serious malpractice has occurred or is occurring in a municipality in the province. If the MEC considers it necessary, designate a person or persons to investigate the matter. The municipalities are:

• Dr JS Moroka Local Municipality; • Govan Mbeki Local Municipality; and • Dr Pixley Ka Isaka Seme Local Municipality. The Department of Co-operative Governance and Traditional Affairs (COGTA) has been assigned to institute the investigations. The investigations are expected to conclude within sixty (60) days. Now might be the time to investigate exactly what Section 106 (1) (b) of the Local Government: Municipal Systems Act, 2000 says. It reads as follows: Non-performance and maladministration 106. (i) If an MEC has reason to believe that a municipality in the province cannot or does not fulfil a statutory obligation binding on that municipality or that maladministration, fraud, corruption or any other serious malpractice has occurred or is occurring in a municipality in the province, the MEC must — (b) if the MEC considers it necessary, designate a person or persons to investigate the matter. It is clear that the Municipal Council will not yet be dissolved as is possible. It is however a scathing report that highlights the ”maladministration, fraud, corruption or any other serious malpractice” that is possibly happening in the municipality. During a recent extraordinary council meeting, council resolved the following: Item A090/09/2019 1. That it BE ACKNOWLEDGED that a task team has been established between the Gert Sibande District Municipality and Govan Mbeki Municipality to investigate and make recommendations on the following: 1.1. The causes of the non-delivery of services to the community; 1.2. Steps to be taken to make the municipality financially viable; 1.3. Capacity building for the staff of the municipality; 1.4. Functionality of public participation; 1.5. Councillor capacity building for effective governance; and 1.6. Implementation of the benchmarking with the Steve Tshwete Municipality and or other municipalities. 2. That the Terms of Reference of the task team between Gert Sibande

District Municipality and Govan Mbeki municipality BE APPROVED subject to the following: 2.1. That the Mayoral Committee, Troika, the Municipal Manager and the Chief Financial Offer form part of the Task Team and that the Chief of Staff perform the secretariat function. Gert Sibande District Municipality has appointed a task team to assist Govan Mbeki and Lekwa Local municipalities and make recommendations. The Scope of assistance: The assistance will be primarily for financial viability, Service Delivery and Human Resource development principally on the causes of nondelivery of services and make recommendations. The functions of the Task Team will be that the Task Team must investigate and make recommendations on the following: (1) The causes of the non-delivery of services to the community of Govan Mbeki (2) Steps to be taken to make the municipality financially viable (3) Capacity building for the staff of the municipality (4) Functionality of Public Participation (5) Councillors capacity building for effective governance (6) Implementation of the benchmarking with the Steve Tshwete municipality or other municipality. There are numerous examples of wasteful and fruitless expenditure in GMM, not to mention deviations of

the supply chain policies. The Govan Mbeki Municipality is in dire need of intervention but the MEC still tries to have less invasive techniques imposed on GMM. The clock is ticking in the meantime for GMM’s financial status. The Eskom and Rand Water debts are currently crippling the municipality. Only time will tell what will happen to Govan Mbeki Municipality’s finances...

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NEWS

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8 November 2019

Ds Marius Britz

Toe tref ‘n groen golf Saterdag hierdie landjie wat Dana Snyman Rondomskrik noem, van Plooysburg tot Pretoria, van Mbombela tot Langebaan. Om die waarheid te sê, sommer die hele Suid Afrika word groen oorstroom. Regoor planeet aarde met sy brandpunt in Japan, raak die groenes raserig. Ons bêre ons gewere en ons messe en assegaaie en ondersoekkommissies vir eers, ons vergeet tydelik van rooi oorpakke en blou golwe wat gebreek het, van Moesies en Zillenators en generators, van Eksdom en van foutiewe vliegtuie wat gegrond word. Ons braai en eet biltong en kyk bankvas op ons televisies na die Derde Oorlog tussen die Engelse en Suid Afrika, na president Ramaphosa en Francois Pienaar en John Smit, na Harry en na Haar Majesteit se Bleekbene. Ons skreeu “Siya!”, “Cheslin” en “Eben!” Ons deel kwistig raad uit aan die Bokke, en raak al hoe luidrugtiger hoe verder die Bokke wen. Toe die eindfluitjie blaas, skreeu die mense in Langebaan so hard dat hulle tot in Clanwilliam gehoor kan word. Die land is skielik weer só 1995, so vol hoop en entoesiasme. Ons huil en ons lag en ons gee mekaar “highfives.” Momenteel is ons weer terug in ons ou bekende land. Weg van die vreemde plek wat Suid Afrika geword het. Die personeel van SPAR in Tulbach en Langebaan dans in die gange, met die kliënte agterna. Motors en taxi’s ry toeterend deur die strate, en ons word nie eers kwaad nie, wildvreemde mense gryp mekaar om die nek. By ‘n plaaslike restaurant begin al die gaste en kelners spontaan saam die volkslied sing. Al die verse daarvan. In die skare in Japan sing wit en swart Suid Afrikaners kliphard en langarmdans en toitoi. “Hier kom die bokke”, en “Shosoloza”. Die vrolike liedere

van ons land. Eensklaps besef ek watter soort liedere deesdae andersins in ons land gesing word. “By the rivers of Babilon, where we sat down, there we wept, when we remembered Zion,” sing Boney-M oor die lot van Afrikane wat as vreemdelinge elders in die wêreld woon. Soos in Psalm 137 waar die Israeliete sê hou op sing, ons kan nie in ‘n vreemde land sing nie, sing net treurliedere oor ‘n land wat nie meer bestaan nie! Ons kan sekerlik ook in ‘n oënskynlik vreemde land hier aan die suidpunt van Afrika ‘n lied in dieselfde trant kan skryf. Dit sou dalk so kon klink: Aan die suidpunt van Afrika, daar sit ons en ween, as duisende mense vermoor word, die meeste in enige land in die wereld, en ons vreemdelinge sonder enige mag is in die land waarin ons gebore is. Ons trane vloei as mense wreed op plase doodgemaak word, as jy nie eens meer in jou eie huis veilig is nie, as jou besittings van jou gesteel word, as jy doodgemaak word vir ‘n selfoon en ‘n tienrandnoot. Ons ween as ons kinders nie meer ‘n toekoms sien nie, en oral oor die wêreld heen immigreer om te kan werk, en te kan leef. Ons trane vloei as ouer mense wat dit nie kan belostig om te immigreer nie, wat dit nie eens kan bekostig om te gaan kuier nie, in eensaamheid verlang na kinders en kleinkinders oor al die uithoeke van die aarde versprei. Ons ween as alles rondom ons ineenstort, en die hemelhoë belastings wat betaal word, deur gulsige en korrupte hande gesteel word. Ons ween as onskuldiges blameer word vir alles wat foutgaan in hierdie land, terwyl onbevoegdheid, massiewe korrupsie en nepotisme daartoe lei dat baie dinge agteruitgaan. Ons ween as duisende mense brandarm sterf aan siektes soos vigs en tering, as bedelaars by die straathoeke staan vir kos. Ons trane vloei as ‘n gesin niks het om te eet nie, as kinders uitgeteer is van die honger, terwyl andere deur selfverryking banale skatte opbou en miljoene rande net verdwyn, sonder dat enigiemand daaroor vervolg word. Maar ons is anders as die Israeliete in die Babiloniese

ballingskap, waaroor Boney-M sing. Ons is nie weg van Sion nie. Ons is hier, saam met miljoene ander mense dwarsoor Suid Afrika, en ons almal is ewe lief vir die land. Al is dit waar dat skrikwekkend baie mense hulle liere opgehang het. Nie meer lofliedere oor Suid Afrika wil sing nie. Dat ‘n laat, rustige ontbyt op ‘n Sondagoggend, peperduur sekuriteitsdienste en hoë veiligheidshekke vir hulle die enigste manier word om geestelik, fisies en emosioneel te probeer oorleef. Hulle persoonlike immigrasie na vryheid. Saterdag se eindstryd het ons baie meer geleer as hoe goeie rugby gespeel word, en die teëstaanders gefnuik moet word. Dit het ons geleer om aan te

hou sing. Nie treurmaeres nie, maar prysliedere. Hoe durf ons ons liere ophang? Al voel dit vir jou soos ‘n vreemde land. Al het jy ook al deurgeloop onder misdaad. Al woon jou kinders en kleinkinders in ‘n ver land. Jy moet ‘n verskil gaan maak in hierdie wye, droewe land waarin die aasvoëls lank reeds die gedoemde waarheid dra, soos wat NP van Wyk Louw skryf. En daardie lied van jou, van ons, se stem sal so hard word dat dit ‘n ontstuitbare golf sal word om hoop te bring. Soos Coenie de Villiers sing: “Thula Thu thula baba thula sana / Thulu babuzo ficka ekuseni / Al lyk hul soms verskillend / Bly elke ma oneindig trou / En sy sing haar lied van liefde / Vir alle kinders, ook vir jou.”

Tannie Poppie se Biltong en Kaas Souttert 400 gram gekoopte blaardeeg 250 gram gerasperde Chedder kaas 150 gram gesnyde biltong 4 groot (Jumbo) eiers 375 ml room Verhit oond tot 180 °C Voer gesmeerde tertbord uit met deeg Maak mooi randjie op die deeg

Die boek word deur Human & Rousseau uitgegee

deur jou duim te gebruik Gooi kaas onder in op deeg Klits eiers apart en voeg sout en peper na smaak by Gooi eiermengsel oor alles Sit in oond en bak vir ongeveer een uur lank totdat vulsel gestol het – haal uit oond Laat staan vir 10 minute Bedien met groen slaai en groente


8 November 2019

SPORT NEWS

5

Have dating apps killed romance?

https:// getthematic. com/insights/ best-datingapps-2018ranked-analyzeapp-reviews/ Disclaimer: The Bulletin encourages freedom of speech and the expression of diverse views. The views of the writers published in The Bulletin are therefore their own and do not necessarily represent the views of The Bulletin. “Millennials have lost the art of conversation because everyone is on their phone… What that will lead to, which is serious – is a lot of loneliness.” – Dr Ruth, Sex Therapist. Recently a lot of documentaries and studies have been released regarding social media and dating apps. It is scary to see these numbers and the behaviour of people who use dating apps. Most people on dating apps such as Tinder, Hinge or Bumble said it is easier to move on from one person to another as there are so many options available to them. They also said that they do not realise how their actions may hurt someone because it was just two or three dates. Even though we would like to believe we live in a modern world, our upbringing can still be very old school. As a little girl you are told and made to believe that a man should chase you, you have to get married, have kids and be a housewife. You cannot work too; a man must look after you! But with gender-based violence being prevalent in our daily lives and the high cost of living it is difficult to not work and contribute in the household. Many women who have been abused will tell you that the most difficult thing is to walk away if you have nothing to support yourself with. Looking for love can be addictive, especially with our society still thinking that a woman cannot survive without a man, it is no wonder so many people decide to be single because divorce is expensive! The world of dating online has opened up a wide new world but also made it more difficult to find quality, instead quantity seems to be the in thing. Smart phones contribute to this problem. One can walk into a room full of people but everyone is extremely busy on their phones: taking the perfect selfie for their dating app profile pic, to Instagram their coffee or just scrolling through Facebook. Online dating apps are also known for an easy hook-up. If you are close-by to the person you have just matched with it is easy to meet up, hook-up and go your separate ways without talking to the other person again. It is also a $ 2.7 billion-a-year industry…

To meet people in the old school ways at a party or through friends are so difficult. Everyone is too busy to actually make a personal connection at these gatherings because again… everyone is too busy looking down at their phones. These dating apps have also become an easy way to cheat. It is so easy to create a secret folder on your smart phone that if you are careful no one will know. It is said that 10 hours a week are spent on online dating apps like Tinder or Match by millennials. This time could be spent much better by going out and actually meeting people. It has also been said that people like or swipe left on people who are 25% more desirable than they are. This comes down to the conclusion that online dating app users think that they have more options than they actually have. Tinder was launched in 2012 and started the swipe movement. It is the most widely used app people use to look for love, a meetup or a hook-up, which means there are a lot of fish in the online sea. Whether you are looking for something real, someone well-mannered that you can take home

to meet your mother or just an easy hook-up this app is definitely for you but do not be upset when you get ghosted because it is really rare to find “The One.” Most of the apps used work on the same principles: fake photos with filters, a quick hook-up or just meeting up for a coffee only to realise that the person in the profile picture is not the person sitting in front of you. Negative experiences experienced by using these apps only lead to selfesteem issues; am I pretty enough or am I not thin enough? They also lead to a lack of social skills. When you are behind your phone screen hiding you can easily say and comment what you want to. Real life unfortunately does not work that way. This all leads to a superficial connection rather than a meaningful connection. The overwhelming choice one has on these apps also contributes to the factor that many people question whether or not the next swipe will bring someone better along. In the old days people would meet in something called a social ecology. This would be at church, sport clubs or through friends. Nowadays, using dating apps, people meet under the guise of deceit and anonymity. This also includes the deceit of intentions, personal characteristics and money. Romance and chivalry have also been killed by these apps. It is common sense that when you feel something for someone everything about that person becomes special. Romance cannot be measured by numbers. Romance is how that someone special treats you. Whether it is picking a flower and giving it to that special girl or waking up to a special message. With online dating most of this is a farce because our priorities have shifted. We want to be independent, live alone and reach all our goals before starting something with that someone special. You might have met that person already but your career is too important and dating casually is easier as there is no commitment involved and no expectations either.

The conclusion comes down to a few things: online dating has turned us into ruder and more self-involved people. It also changed our morals and values. Dating apps also give you the idea that there is someone better that deserves your attention more than the one you are currently with. It also appears that people are not scared anymore is they were previously. The internet has given people who are scared to go out in the world, are introverts or suffer from social anxiety a freedom like never before. It gives them I sense of false acceptance and make them feel like they fit in. The anonymity gives them a false sense of confidence that they would not have had before. If you are in the dating pool, you will fall in love and get crushed but since the beginning of mankind love has always prevailed… - Ané Prinsloo

https://www.thesun.co.uk/ fabulous/5817086/online-datingterms-tinder-bumble-grindr-datingapps-work/


8 November 2019

SPORT NEWS

5

Have dating apps killed romance?

https:// getthematic. com/insights/ best-datingapps-2018ranked-analyzeapp-reviews/ Disclaimer: The Bulletin encourages freedom of speech and the expression of diverse views. The views of the writers published in The Bulletin are therefore their own and do not necessarily represent the views of The Bulletin. “Millennials have lost the art of conversation because everyone is on their phone… What that will lead to, which is serious – is a lot of loneliness.” – Dr Ruth, Sex Therapist. Recently a lot of documentaries and studies have been released regarding social media and dating apps. It is scary to see these numbers and the behaviour of people who use dating apps. Most people on dating apps such as Tinder, Hinge or Bumble said it is easier to move on from one person to another as there are so many options available to them. They also said that they do not realise how their actions may hurt someone because it was just two or three dates. Even though we would like to believe we live in a modern world, our upbringing can still be very old school. As a little girl you are told and made to believe that a man should chase you, you have to get married, have kids and be a housewife. You cannot work too; a man must look after you! But with gender-based violence being prevalent in our daily lives and the high cost of living it is difficult to not work and contribute in the household. Many women who have been abused will tell you that the most difficult thing is to walk away if you have nothing to support yourself with. Looking for love can be addictive, especially with our society still thinking that a woman cannot survive without a man, it is no wonder so many people decide to be single because divorce is expensive! The world of dating online has opened up a wide new world but also made it more difficult to find quality, instead quantity seems to be the in thing. Smart phones contribute to this problem. One can walk into a room full of people but everyone is extremely busy on their phones: taking the perfect selfie for their dating app profile pic, to Instagram their coffee or just scrolling through Facebook. Online dating apps are also known for an easy hook-up. If you are close-by to the person you have just matched with it is easy to meet up, hook-up and go your separate ways without talking to the other person again. It is also a $ 2.7 billion-a-year industry…

To meet people in the old school ways at a party or through friends are so difficult. Everyone is too busy to actually make a personal connection at these gatherings because again… everyone is too busy looking down at their phones. These dating apps have also become an easy way to cheat. It is so easy to create a secret folder on your smart phone that if you are careful no one will know. It is said that 10 hours a week are spent on online dating apps like Tinder or Match by millennials. This time could be spent much better by going out and actually meeting people. It has also been said that people like or swipe left on people who are 25% more desirable than they are. This comes down to the conclusion that online dating app users think that they have more options than they actually have. Tinder was launched in 2012 and started the swipe movement. It is the most widely used app people use to look for love, a meetup or a hook-up, which means there are a lot of fish in the online sea. Whether you are looking for something real, someone well-mannered that you can take home

to meet your mother or just an easy hook-up this app is definitely for you but do not be upset when you get ghosted because it is really rare to find “The One.” Most of the apps used work on the same principles: fake photos with filters, a quick hook-up or just meeting up for a coffee only to realise that the person in the profile picture is not the person sitting in front of you. Negative experiences experienced by using these apps only lead to selfesteem issues; am I pretty enough or am I not thin enough? They also lead to a lack of social skills. When you are behind your phone screen hiding you can easily say and comment what you want to. Real life unfortunately does not work that way. This all leads to a superficial connection rather than a meaningful connection. The overwhelming choice one has on these apps also contributes to the factor that many people question whether or not the next swipe will bring someone better along. In the old days people would meet in something called a social ecology. This would be at church, sport clubs or through friends. Nowadays, using dating apps, people meet under the guise of deceit and anonymity. This also includes the deceit of intentions, personal characteristics and money. Romance and chivalry have also been killed by these apps. It is common sense that when you feel something for someone everything about that person becomes special. Romance cannot be measured by numbers. Romance is how that someone special treats you. Whether it is picking a flower and giving it to that special girl or waking up to a special message. With online dating most of this is a farce because our priorities have shifted. We want to be independent, live alone and reach all our goals before starting something with that someone special. You might have met that person already but your career is too important and dating casually is easier as there is no commitment involved and no expectations either.

The conclusion comes down to a few things: online dating has turned us into ruder and more self-involved people. It also changed our morals and values. Dating apps also give you the idea that there is someone better that deserves your attention more than the one you are currently with. It also appears that people are not scared anymore is they were previously. The internet has given people who are scared to go out in the world, are introverts or suffer from social anxiety a freedom like never before. It gives them I sense of false acceptance and make them feel like they fit in. The anonymity gives them a false sense of confidence that they would not have had before. If you are in the dating pool, you will fall in love and get crushed but since the beginning of mankind love has always prevailed… - Ané Prinsloo

https://www.thesun.co.uk/ fabulous/5817086/online-datingterms-tinder-bumble-grindr-datingapps-work/


NEWS

6

8 November 2019

#AnkerdorpPadskou-veldtog in Secunda sluit af

Afriforum by Highveld Ridge Primary School Die burgerregteorganisasie AfriForum se #AnkerdorpPadskouveldtog in Secunda het ná ’n aktiewe maand se betrokkenheid in dié dorp afgesluit. Om veiligheid te verbeter het die Secunda-buurtwag vir die bejaardes van Davieshof ’n WhatsApp- en Zello-groep gestig (waarvan die buurtwag ook deel is), asook koördineerders aangewys wat hulle tydens noodgevalle sal bystaan. Dié koördineerders sal glimbaadjies ontvang en die buurtwag sal die

noodplan saam met die inwoners inoefen. Die Secunda-tak is baie betrokke by dié tehuis en help dikwels met herstelwerk van die eenhede. Verder het die tak amberbome, Vanwykshoutbome en witstinkhoutbome by verskeie skole in die dorp en omliggende gebiede geplant, waaronder Laerskool Secunda, Hoërskool Secunda, Hoërskool Oosterland, Laerskool Trichardt, Laerskool T.P. Stratten,

Hoërskool Evander, Laerskool Oranjegloed, Laerskool Kruinpark, Laerskool Goedehoop, Curro Skool Secunda, Highveldpark High School en Highveldridge Primary School. “Ons wil vir AfriForum baie dankie sê vir hulle inisiatief en betrokkenheid in ons gemeenskap – ons sien die projekte raak waarmee AfriForum van Secunda ’n pragtige plek maak,” sê Barnie Botha, hoof van die Laerskool Kruinpark. Die tak het ook bederfpakkies vir leerders van die

Marietjie Skool vir Gestremdes gaan uitdeel en is met groot geesdrif en dankbaarheid ontvang. Die tak en buurtwag het later die maand aan ’n skoonmaakaksie deelgeneem, waartydens die groen strook oorkant die klein Pick n Pay skoongemaak is. Heelwat vragte rommel is uiteindelik verwyder. “Ons is nie net in Secunda om gesien te word nie, ons is ook daar om ’n diens aan die gemeenskap te lewer,” sê Jan du Plessis, voorsitter van AfriForum se Secunda-tak.

Our Place Straatfees enjoyed by all

An atmosphere of excitement filled the air on Saturday in Trichardt... the day had finally arrived for the Our Place Straatfees! The line-up this year was just as good as last year’s, if not better. The infamous Steve Hofmeyer returned to the stage with other acts like: Joe F, Joe Black, Liezel Pieters, Etienne, Pottie and Juan Boucher. Pottie from Chat ‘n Bietjie ball was the master of ceremonies or was it the monster of ceremonies? He had everyone in stitches! What made this year’s Our Place Straatfees extra special was the fact that they broadcasted the 2019 World Cup Rugby Finals before the Straatfees started and that ensured that the mood was set for an amazing day ahead after the Bokke beat England. - Ané Prinsloo

Joe Black on stage


SPORT NEWS

8 November 2019

7

Boks vir 'n boervrou 'n reuse sukses Highveld Park learners perform

'n Boks vir 'n Boervrou! Die projek wat sommige mense vol liefde en meegevoel gelaat het. Dit is nie 'n gewone projek nie. Dit vergelyk nie met projekte soos die vloede in Mozambiek of die verwoestende brande in Knysna nie. Nee, glad nie. Boks vir 'n Boervrou is 'n projek waar mense aan mede Suid Afrikaners gewys het: "Ons voel saam met julle." Die land is oorval met fotos en videos van die knellende droogte in die Karoo en aangrensende gedeeltes. Daar was videos van skape wat net gelê het en wag op die

dood. Daar was videos van gedroogte beendere in die veld, videos van vee wat te swak is om te eet. Fotos van die ongelooflike droogte wat die barre droë veld uitbeeld het die rondte gedoen. Suid Afrika het begin regop sit en kennis geneem van die ongelooflike moeilike omstandigehede wat die boere in die droogte geteisterde gebiede moes deurmaak. Groot sterk boere wat in trane inmekaar stort omdat hulle nie meer die diere kan help nie. Een of twee boere het totaal geknak en 'n einde aan alles gemaak. Hulle los gebroke families agter.

Dux De Jager Trophy This trophy is awarded to the pupil with the highest marks in Mathematics and six other subjects. CAT 77%, EGD 94%, Maths 92% and Physical Science 84%: as well as the Top 10 Award. DN Malan Trust is awarded to a pupil with an academically vision and mission. He receives a cheque for R1500.00. He also receives a Laptop donated by the SGB for being position 1. He also receives the Trophy for being Top 10 for 5 years and the Diligence Trophy: An award for such and achievement that demonstrates qualities of an individual such as willingness, commitment, dedication, hard work and above all immense effort in ensuring the positive outcome in each task. He also receives a Matric Gold

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Maar deur dit alles is daar sterk Boervroue wat deur alles nog staande bly. Die kinders moet nog steeds skool toe, aktiwiteite moet bygewoon word en huiswerk moet gedoen word. Dan moet daar omgesien word na die swak vee. Haar man ondersteun as hy gebroke op sy kneë om hulp vra. 'n Paar mense het dit raakgesien en besluit om vir die boervroue te sê: "Hier is 'n klein ietsie om net te sê ons dink aan jou." 'n Klein bederfie om iets van vrouwees terug te gee. Secunda se mense het saamgestaan en bokse aangery. Dit het gegons oor wat om in te sit. Wat van 'n handeroompie of eerder waterlose sjampoe of selfs net 'n lekker leesdingetjie. Sodat die

een wat dit ontvang dalk net eenkant kan gaan sit en so bietjie tyd aan haarself kan spandeer. Al is dit net vir 'n kort rukkie weer vrouwees met die wete dat ander dink aan haar. Die Bulletin het ongeveer 470 bokse aangery Ermelo toe en dit daar afgegee. Roos en Rosslee het goedgunstelik 'n 8 ton trok beskikbaar gemaak wat die bokse vervoer het. Dit het ongeveer 30 minute geneem om die bokse op te laai met 'n span mense! Dit is voorwaar 'n grootste poging. Baie dankie aan elkeen wat deelgeneem het aan hierdie projek. Sonder elkeen se bydrae, hoe klein en hoe groot, sou dit nie moontlik gewees het nie! - Encee van Huyssteen

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Certificate and a Scroll for Academic Colours. He also receives full colours for leadership. This goes to Wandile Mavimbela. Rotary Fellowship Award This trophy is awarded to a learner for outstanding leadership, responsibility and teaching by example. He receives the Ambassador Award: For being a learner who best projects the image of the school on various levels, at school and the in public. Promoting the school through his/her actions and is loyal and true to him/herself and the school and is proud to be a learner from Highveld Park. He also receives full colours for leadership. He is Thabang Vilakazi.

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VACANCIES VAKATURES


8 November 2019

SPORT SCHOOL

Hoërskool Secunda Eisteddfod 2019 - Toekennings Hoërskool Secunda het die volgende toekennings tydens die Sasol Hoëveldrif Eisteddfod ontvang: KATEGORIE A: INSTRUMENTAAL BESTE LIGTEMUSIEKVERTOLKER Wian Du Toit 94.7% KATEGORIE B: VOKAAL BEST SECONDARY SCHOOL CHOIR Hoërskool Secunda Gemengde Koor 88.0% KATEGORIE D: SKRYFKUNS BESTE SKRYFSTUK, GRAAD 8-12 Olivia Joubert 94.0% Cara Strydom 94.0% BEST WRITER, GRADE 8-12 Stephan Oberholzer 98.0% BESTE KORTVERHAAL Lana Hyman 88.0% BEST SHORT STORY Frederick Nel 91.0% BEST POEM, GRADE 8-12 Realette Pool 98.0% BESTE POëSIE, GRAAD 8-12 Realette Pool 96.0% Cabous Harmse 96.0% Sonél de la Rey 96.0% Chana Dunn 96.0% KATEGORIE E: BEELDENDE KUNSTE BESTE BEELDENDE KUNSTENAAR, GRAAD 8-10 Lana Hyman 98.0% BESTE BEELDENDE KUNSTENAAR, GRAAD 11-12 Pavitirin Mestry 94.0% BESTE TEKENKUNSTENAAR GRAAD 11-12 Dominique van Tiddens 99.0%

BESTE FOTO Talitha Kruger 98.0% KATEGORIE F & G: SPRAAK & DRAMA BESTE DRAMA GROEP, SENIOR Alles pluis tuis 95.0% Caley Ellish, Clarize Winkler 95.0% BESTE DEELNEMER, GRAAD 8-10 Eliska Smit 95.0% CATEGORY H&J: SPEECH AND DRAMA BEST DRAMA GROUP, SENIOR A thing called beauty 86.0% BEST PERFORMER GRADE 8-10 Eliska Smit 96.0% BEST PERFORMER GRADE 11-12 Niné Rudolph 95.0% HOOFTOEKENNINGS BESTE GRAAD 8-12 (SNR. VICTOR & VICTRIX ARTIUM) SEUNS Cabous Harmse 96.7% Stephan Oberholzer 95.3% Jan-Hendrik Groenewald 93.7% Henri Viljoen 93.7% DOGTERS Sonél de la Rey 95.3% Eliska Smit 95.3% Chana Dunn 94.7% Niné Rudolph 94.3% Kaylie Strydom 93.7% Lana Hyman 93.0% Uitblinkers van die Eisteddfod was Cabous Harmse, Sonél de la Rey en Eliska Smit. Cabous Harmse is aangewys as Senior Victor Atrium en Sonél en Elsika is albei aangewys as Senior Victrices Atrium.

Jim Van Tonderskool matriekafskeid Jim van Tonderskool het op 24 Oktober hulle Skoolverlaters funksie gehou. Dit het by Bluegum op Bethal plaasgevind en dit was ,soos elke jaar, weer 'n spoggeleentheid.

Letitia Mlangeni en Zukisa Thwala by die afskeid

Eliska Smit 95.3%

Sonél de la Rey 96.0%

Me. Surika Buys van Laerskool Goedehoop is gekies vir netbal Mpumalanga Sunbirds finale proewe te Nelspruit wat op 23 en 24 November plaasvind.

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Nelisiwe Mkhabela (Hoofdogter)

PROPERTIES EIENDOMME

Damion du Plessis (Hoofseun) en Simone Venter Cabous Harmse 96.0%

9

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Congratulations to these Laerskool Krielpark U/12 hockey girls who are going to the 4th round hockey trails with the is their coach, Mrs Nicole Hattingh. Esona Nyangane, Nobuhle Maseko and Chantelle Gololo.


SPORT

10

8 November 2019

Lions dinner with Radio Raps

Lions rugby fanatics enjoyed two fun filled days with The Lions Super Rugby Squad last year, 5 February, at Boesies. Fans gathered around their favourite players for photographs and autographs. Last year two jerseys were auctioned off and Daan Naude donated a flag that was also auctioned. R40 000 were promised to Laerskool Trichardt. R47 750 was paid for the second jersey with the proceeds going towards the players touring fund. The flag raised R11 500 that was promised to the players but the players donated it back to Laerskool Trichardt. In 2017 the Lions Super Rugby Squad also visited Secunda where they enjoyed a practice session at the Sasol Club. Various school rugby teams joined in on the entertainment.

A supporter also entertained the crowd with a Lions outfit. Dillion Smit also visited his primary school, Laerskool Goedehoop and Lake Umuzi arranged a signature session. Afterwards the boys enjoyed a ball kick session with him where they also learned some new ball skills. Eish!! was packed to the rafters on Monday afternoon, thereafter the rugby players attended an evening at The Basement Theatre. Faf du Plessis showed interest in the Lake Umuzi Brewing Company and posed for a photo with the brew master. Johan Rosslee from Lake Umuzi thanked everyone who assisted with bringing this Super 12 rugby squad to Secunda. According to Johan, the team was very impressed with the successful week and with

the residents that they consider a warming-up match in Secunda. The sponsors of the event were Lake Umuzi, AJ Safety Solutions, Pinnacle Auto and @Water. This year will be no different and with Radio Raps as host there is sure to be laughter and fun to be had! There are rumours that the players who were in the World Cup winning squad will also be joining but this could not be confirmed as yet. And who knows maybe one of them will be seated at your table! This can be the perfect event for your yearend function or maybe a special night to enjoy with your loved ones and friends. Buy your tickets today to ensure you do not miss out on this amazing event!

SAIMechE Engineers hit Graceland Greens

LIONS DINNER WITH RADIO RAPS

28 NOVEMBER 18:00

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B O E S I E S LAKE UMUZI SOUTH BANK

The South African Institute of Mechanical Engineers (SAIMechE) Mpumalanga Highveld branch held its annual golf day on 25 October. Top tier professionals who are captains in their respective companies let their hair down by hitting the greens for a fun-filled round of golf. The event, with 18 teams in participation, was the biggest to date with Novus Sealing taking top honours being crowned the 2019 champions. The SAIMechE Golf Day is an annual event on the SAIMechE calendar. Through the event, professionals in engineering are invited to participate with the intention to socialise and network amongst their peers. This provides a great platform for Mpumalanga’s great minds to share ideas on the current state of the industry and also conceptualise initiatives meant to uplift and drive engineering going forward. Apart from the golf day, SAIMechE also hosts monthly evening papers hosted by industry experts and community outreach programmes such as its World of Engineering Exhibitions. The Chairman of SAIMechE Mpumalanga Highveld Branch (MHB), Mishael Mashele said: “SAIMechE Golf 2019 day was a resounding success!” He proceed to extended his gratitude: “Thanks in part to the great number of sponsors. This year’s event also saw a record number of both sponsors and participants. PDPS represented by its Director, Hannes Degenaar, MegChem represented by its Director, Andre Roos and PPS for Professionals and CCI Engineering & Projects

represented by its Director, Clifford Masus, each sponsored one of the four main holes and received Certificates of Sponsorships. The remaining holes were sponsored by Novus Sealing, Progo, SGB Cape, AZ-Armaturen and New Nation. At their information stalls the participants had the opportunity to learn more about the companies and the services they have to offer.” “On behalf of SAIMechE’s MHB committee, I would also like to thank all engineers that took time out of their busy schedules to honour the invite. A total of 18 teams from the aforementioned companies including Sasol, Eskom and SGB Cape braced the windy greens for top honours. Par-Tee-On from PDPS came in at 3rd place, The Wackos from SGB clinched 2nd position and Green Reapers from Novus Sealing took top honours claiming bragging rights as SAIMechE 2019 Golf Day Champions. Congratulations are definitely in order!” Off the golf course, SAIMechE MBH has a series of events lined up. Daniel S. Janikowski, Technical Manager at the West Monroe, Louisiana plant of Plymouth Tube Co. will give a presentation on Tube Degradation on Thursday, 14 November. This will be followed by an industry visit to Simba Isando Plant early next year. As with any great organisation: “I would like to encourage active participation from all of SAIMechE members and also extend an invitation to all Mechanical engineers, technicians and technologists in the Mpumalanga region.”


SPORT

8 November 2019

11

Sasol Cricket has mixed results It’s been a difficult weekend for Sasol Cricket Club, but Sasol Kinross kept the clubs name high with a fantastic victory against Elukwatini in the Gert Sibande Promotion League in Badplaas on Sunday. Sasol 3 Kinross posted 245 runs for Elukwatini to chase with Mark Joseph scoring 104 runs. Elukwatini could only

reply with 125 runs. Patrick Mosikili took 3 wickets with Mark Joseph and Sifiso Shili each taking two wickets. In the other Promotion League fixture Sasol 4 Griffons slipped to a 111 runs defeat to Standerton 3. Delwyn Naidoo (46) and Marco du Toit (54) showed some fight with the bat. In the Premier League fixtures Sasol

1 Secunda and Sasol 2 Bulldogs lost to Standerton 1 and Bethal Bears respectively. Nicus Boshoff top scored for Sasol 2 against Bethal with 61 runs. This weekend will see Sasol 1 taking on Emba in eMbalenhle on Saturday, Sasol 3 Kinross are playing away against Ermelo 2 in Ermelo and Sasol 4 Griffons taking on Emba 2 also in

eMbalenhle on Sunday. This weekend is also the start of our Women’s league with the Sasol Women playing in Standerton on Sunday. We would like to invite all the ladies out there to come and join the club. Practice for the ladies is on Wednesday’s from 18h00 to 19h30 - Ignus Koekemoer

Cheap tournament for boys and girls Voice of thanks to all the parents who are really supportive to their kids and to the community of extension 15, 16, 17 and 20. I would urge for more support and to combat the child abuse, especially for our girl’s. We are

looking for sponsors who can sponsor the girl’s tournament. Any company or individual who may wish to lend a hand is more than welcome. Contact Mxolisi Lindokuhle Mngomezulu at 0818999516.

Lake Umuzi Soccer Challenge Players who were selected to the Kagiso School Academy. FLTR: Mr Pro Tholo, Pro Stars Coach, Mr Philane Ngwenya, coach: Inter Roses, Gift Zwane, Sbusiso Shoba, Sphamandla Nkosi, Siyanda Mtshali, Mr Ngwenya, manager: Inter Roses. Sitting LTR: Sinethemba Mnyayiza, Zungu Khumalo, Siyabonga Thabethe, Jubulane Ntuli, Ntsizwa Lunga. This weekend, 10 November, in Leandra there will be a tournament hosted by Seven S Catering and Projects and the Lake Umuzi Soccer Challenge. The Ligcabho Lesive tournament is an open tournament for any team in Govan Mbeki area to participate. This is also a selection tournament for the WITS junior programme. The head coach, Mr Rainer Abrahim, from the WITS junior programme said: “This is an opportunity for players who were not selected for the Kagiso School of Excellence Academy. All the teams must please be on time to ensure the day runs smoothly. We shall start at 07:00 am exactly. All the teams participating must pay the joining fee: R150 per team.” Please contact Sannies for more information: 072 648 9364 or Pro Tholo: 072 448 9704.


8 NOVEMBER

2019

Bulletin

AC reinstated after positive appeal

T

he last Bronhorstspruit rally was marred by the controversial decision to disqualify AC Potgieter and Nico Swartz on a technicality. The disqualification prompted the Potgieter family to announce the retirement of AC Potgieter from rallying. “We will now play golf,” said Johan Potgieter, AC’s father. The Bulletin reported the following in the 11 October edition of our paper: “When asked if he is retiring from rally driving, a simple answer was given: “I cannot confirm or deny that I am retiring from rally driving…” And that was said with a naughty grin on his face again. I asked him why the rumours of retirement have spread like wildfire, AC enlightened me with a little more detail. He does not go into too much detail, but what it comes down to is that a complaint was lodged against him by another rally driver. The alleged

complaint is regarding the new test model 1 litre Volkswagen he was driving this year. The complaint is allegedly regarding a hole, where the number plate is normally mounted, in the bumper. AC said that they will not go down without a fight and has lodged a dispute at Motorsport South Africa to contest these allegations.” The appeal (Appeal 445) has now been conducted and the results are positive for AC and Nico. Here are some excerpts from the findings: “In the appeal of ANTHONIE POTGIETER - APPELLANT relating to his protest against the findings of the Stewards of the 2019 TRANC4 National Rally Championship event held at Bronkhorstspruit on 28th September 2019. MSA granted leave to appeal to competitor AC Potgieter (competitor # 2) against the decision taken by the Stewards at a protest hearing held on 28th September

2019 during Round 6 of the 2019 National Rally Championship held at Bronkhorstspruit” PROCEEDINGS: All parties involved were given the opportunity to present their arguments relevant to the appeal document provided to the court. 1. According to the Technical Delegate (Mr Language), it was ruled that the modification of the bumper was non-compliant as it contravened the homologation of the car and constituted a performance enhancement. 2. A set of homologation documents was supplied to the Technical Delegate, who confirmed he had these documents in his possession at the event. He stated that, although the issue in dispute (front bumper modified air inlet) was stated on the document, there was no photo (photo no 19) to go with the statement and therefore he found it to be non-compliant.

a. Homologation documents with no A-143/12 Extension no 25/20 VR2N dated 24/09/19 were presented to the court as evidence. A reference on the right-hand bottom corner of the document indicated - VW POLO RS2 A143_ 12 25_ 20 VR2N 24.09.19 _2. This document had been sent prior to the event. b. The court also had in its possession homologation documents with reference no A143/12, Extension no 25/20 VR2N dated 29/03/2019 and dated 11/10/19, in which the item for the Front Bumper Modified Air Inlet was not reflected. On the righthand bottom corner of the document indicated - VW POLO RS2 A143_ 12 25_ 20 VR2N 24.09.19 _3. This document had been sent post the event. “ FINDINGS: It is clear to the court that this vehicle is busy being homologated during the 2019 year and, as can be seen from the homologation documents, this process is ongoing and the homologation document is being changed as technical changes and parts are being added or removed. The findings of the Stewards, whereby the # 2 car driven by competitor AC Potgieter was excluded from the results of the event, are set aside in their entirety and the # 2 car is to be reinstated in the event results.” The Bulletin would like to congratulate Team AC on their winning appeal. Hopefully this will not be the end of Team AC/Nico. As Johan Potgieter said: “We will concentrate on golf.” We hope that golf will take a back seat to the exceptional talents of AC Potgieter!

AC Potgieter and Nico Swartz


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