Bulletin Newspaper 15 January 2021 by Far North Bulletin

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15 January 2021

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THANK YOU

The Makarios team recognized the thankless efforts of Tzaneen’s medical fraternity during the second wave of the coronavirus and decided to show their appreciation by handing every member of the staff at Mediclinic Tzaneen a “Love in a Mug” as a gesture of thanks. Sarie Vermaak and her team will be repeating this token of appreciation next week when they visit the team at Van Velden hospital. Amelia Benade, Unit manager in ICU, Claire Ressel, an Enrolled Nurse, Marlize Delport, Doctor Patient Relationship Manager, Dr Pieter Mostert, Ina Brink, of Makarios Makelaars, Sarie Vermaak, of Makarios Makelaars and Thuli Rabebe, of Arbor Park Lodge. Photo: Joe Dreyer

TRAGEDY CLAIMS THE LIFE OF YOUNG MOTHER

A seven year old girl survived on her own after the death of her mother that went unnoticed for more than a week. Bulletin spoke to friends and family of the 31-year old single mother who past away in her home in Agatha and was only discovered a week later by a concerned resident. Story on page 3.

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Back door sales of alcohol continue

■ Jeff Jackson Personeel | Personnel Kantoor: 015 306 0198 Redakteur / Editor Joe Dreyer 072 930 1462 joe@bulletin.us.com Joernaliste / Journalists Roelof de Jonge 078 672 7306 roelof@bulletin.us.com Billy Sibuyi 081 429 2040 billy@reallysa.co.za Drukker/Printer: Novus Print

Office: 064 650 7123 Ontwerp / Design Tessa Thompson 079 653 6317 tessa@bulletin.us.com Ontwerp / Design Deborah Varrie debz@bulletin.us.com Bemarking / Marketing Chrizelle Dreyer 082 628 4181 chrizelle@bulletin.us.com Admin / Finance Jacqueline Allan admin@bulletin.us.com

Verspreiding | Distribution Tzaneen • Haenertsburg • Modjadjiskloof • Mooketsi • Letsitele Gravelotte • Ofcolaco • Lenyenye Nkowankowa • Phalaborwa

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Posbus/P O Box 3838, Tzaneen, 0850. Tel: 015 306 0198 072 930 1462 (Joe) Fax: 086 502 1853

Efforts by the government to ban the sales and the on-site consumption of alcohol in order to stem the spread of the novel Covid-19 pandemic, have not, in fact been extremely fruitful. Though President Ramaphosa stated that many hospitals’ trauma units were empty over the new year celebrations, residents in the villages have resorted to purchasing “back door” alcohol. This highly lucrative business model is one that seemingly continues to escape the eyes of the law. It is reported by various citizens that when stopped at roadblocks, police usually only check for the wearing of masks by the occupants in compliance to the covid regulations which has resulted in consignments of booze passing through these roadblocks. Just last week, however, the police had arrested two people who were found delivering crates of beer to shebeens in a panel van. The suspects were immediately arrested and their van confiscated. A Mariveni drinker told Bulletin that in some areas alcohol is bought directly from the owners of bottle stores and taverns, but they are sold in case lots at inflated prices. A case of quarts containing twelve bottles is sold at R450, while the 340ml case (24) is sold at R480 and the 500ml long tom cans are sold at R600 per case (24). The source said that they were mostly sold to regulars from these outlets before the prohibition. “In some instances, after the funerals as part of the “after tears” phenomenon, orders are made through the owners and liquor is collected at homes because when businesses closed owners took the stock home to avoid break ins. Even the police members who drink tend to buy from the

homes of owners,” the source alleged. “I have heard from some of the local owners that they need to sell their stock or throw it away before it reaches expiry dates. If they pour it down the drain, they will lose money because government will not easily compensate them for stock loss.” Shortly before the announcement of the prohibition by the President, beer sellers through their organisations, were lamenting that government should allow the off-site consumption of alcohol as this would save jobs in the industry. Meanwhile traditional leaders had appealed to communities not to resort to concocted traditional drinks as some of them could be detrimental to their health. Jackson Sono of Mariveni said that because of the ban on the sale of alcohol, local residents were drinking concocted drinks. He said

Road completed ■ Jeff Jackson

E-posadresse/E-mail addresses: Agri-advertensies/Agri ads: chrizelle@bulletin.us.com

Mud, dust and the potholes found on the dirt road connecting the communities of Long valley, Lephepane, Bvumeni, Mathlogwe, Leseka and Graighead Estate in the Letsitele valley, just south of Tzaneen, might soon be a thing of the past after a paved road which was promised to the residents by the Mayor of Tzaneen, Maripe Mangena, had now come to fruition. The road was finally completed. As part of the Integrated Development Programme (IDP) consultation forum in Lenyenye two years ago, residents of Tzaneen were promised by the municipality that residents of Marumofase and Mathlogwe leading to Matapa would receive a paved road to ease challenges faced in those areas. Marumofase is densely populated village east of Lenyenye, and before the project started early last year motorists had to park their vehicles at Thusanang Street in Lenyenye and walk the rest of the way on foot. This affected the schools in the area as teachers would either not arrive at school, or be consistently late. Community Liaison Officer (CLO) for the project, Sipho Molepo, could not be reached for comment despite relentless attempts. In the meantime, residents from the area appealed to politicians not to use the paved road to garner votes for the in the upcoming local elections due in five months.

Briewe/Letters: joe@bulletin.us.com Events: tessa@bulletin.us.com Nuus & foto’s/News & photos: joe@bulletin.us.com Copyright © 2020 Far North Bulletin All rights reserved. No part of this publication (including editorial, artwork and layout) may be reproduced, stored in a retrieval system or be transmitted in any form or by any means, electronic or mechanical, without prior permission by Far North Bulletin.

Website Visit our website at www.reallysa.co.za and read the latest news, as well as back copies.

Fabriek in Nkowa brand af ■ Joe Dreyer

‘n Familiebesigheid in Nkowankowa het oor die naweek heeltemal afgebrand. Die groep maatskappye se plastiekpyp-vervaardigingsaanleg het Saterdag in die vroeë oggend ure op ‘n onbekende manier aan die brand geslaan en is oombliklik in vlamme gehul. Teen die tyd wat die brandweer ontbied is, het die vlamme reeds meeste van die gebou totaal verwoes. Die eienaars van die aanleg het verkies om annoniem te bly maar het aan Bulletin vertel dat hul ongelooflike skade berokken het. Niemand is in die voorval beseer of oorlede nie.

Noodnommers Emergency numbers Tzaneen

Ambulance / Ambulans Police / Polisie Fire Brigade / Brandweer Electricity / Electrisiteit Water Municipality / Munisipaliteit Letaba Fire Protection Ass. Fire / Brand nr. Citizen Band Van Velden Hospital/Hospitaal Mediclinic Tzaneen Child line

10177 / 015 307 7077 10111 / 015 306 2129 015 307 5555 / 7000 015 307 4356/8190 a/h 015 307 8000/8190 a/h 015 307 8000 076 550 2260 076 844 1646 Foxtrot Papa Alpha/ Letaba Fire Ops. 015 307 8800 015 306 8500 0800 055 555

some of them were made from mixtures of paraffin, methylated spirits, petrol and drugs in order to elevate the effect of the booze. Sono added that he was concerned by reports that police had arrested people for being in possession of beer bottle labels and lids. He said with these labels and lids of beer bottles, some people are misleading the public by selling concoctions which look like legitimate beer. On the same note, the Tactical Response Team (TRT) of the South African Police Service was summoned last week to the Lenyenye CBD to disperse a crowd of revellers who were drinking alcohol which was sold at a tavern in the vicinity. While ordinary people were fleeing from the kicks and punches of the police, the tavern owner was arrested and fined.

R500 vir masker

Winkel wéér beroof ■ Joe Dreyer Sondagoggend omstreeks 10:30 het ‘n groep gewapende mans die Total Sports winkel in die Tzaneen Crossing winkelsentrum van geld en verskeie selfone beroof. Hierdie is die tweede keer in die laaste jaar wat hierdie winkel beroof is. Volgens die polisieverslag het die diewe met R12 633 in kontant en R83 433 se selfone te voet op die vlug geslaan. Die polisieverslag is verstommend in die sin dat hul feite klaarblyklik heeltemal verkeerd is. Volgens die verslag het ses mans die winkel binne gestorm en al die personeel

en klante in die stoorkamer vasgebind. ‘n Ooggetuie sê egter nee. “Daar was net drie mans in die winkel en hulle het niemand vasgebind nie. So die polisie is nou opsoek na drie mans en drie spoke. Teen druktyd het ons nog geen verdere uitklaring hieroor gekry nie en niemand is nog in hegtenis geneem nie. Die Total Sports winkel is letterlik 200 meter vanaf die Tzaneen polisiestasie geleë. Net die vorige dag het die polisie 25 mense inhegtenis geneem oor hulle maskers nie reg op hulle gesig gesit het, of oor hulle glad nie maskers gedra het nie.

■ Joe Dreyer Die Polisie op Tzaneen het hierdie week 25 lede van die publiek inhegtenis geneem oor hulle in die strate rond geloop het sonder om hul maskers te dra. Die mense is almal by die Tzaneense polisiestasie aangehou waar hulle met R500 of ses maande agter tralies beboet is. Volgens die woordvoerder vir die stasie, Sers Maurice Mkhwhsu, is die mense deur die polisie inhegtenis geneem oor hulle kwansuis nie hul maskers reg gedra het nie, en sodoende mense om hulle se lewens in gevaar gestel het. Tzaneen se polisiestasie is verlede week vir die derde keer tydelik gesluit na ‘n paar van hul lede na bewering positief vir die koronavirus getoets het. Die stasie is tans weer operasioneel.

Foto deur: Willie & Mariette Source: www.dwa.gov.za Information updated: 11/01/2021

For your wireless Communication needs, contact us! Call Centre: 086 101 7488 Fax: 086 606 4606 Email: info@letaba.net

Ebenezer 24.4%

Merensky 102.7%

Middel Letaba 0.7% Blyde Rivier Poort 100.7% Tours 45.6%

Vergelegen 101%

Tzaneen 20% Dap Naude 104.7% Klaserie 100.8% Ohrigstad 8.3%

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15 January 2021

Young girl (7) waited for help after mom died ■ Joe Dreyer Jacqueline Ridland was a single mother of a seven-year-old daughter when she passed away at the dawn of a new year. She was a young woman, 31-years old, with dreams of starting afresh in an environment conducive to a brighter future for her young daughter. The pair had relocated to Tzaneen after what was described by family members and those who had known her, as a tumultuous marriage that ended in divorce. Affectionately known as Jackie, she had bought a plot out on the Agatha road a few kilometres out of town and had plans to renovate and expand on the existing structure and eventually establish a haven for people who had slipped through the cracks of society. At the time of her death, solar panels had already been installed and a working borehole stood a few metres from the house near a functional “donkey” used as a water heater. Signs of construction were visible. When police were summoned to her home on Saturday, the 9th of January, they discovered her lifeless

body in her room. It appeared that she had been deceased for close on a week. Her daughter was found in the home, alive but traumatized. The young girl had survived on her own reportedly by eating peanut butter and drinking water. Though her mother’s cellphone was in the room, and the house reportedly had a CB radio installed, neither were operational due to an extended power outage. The house had a generator, but at seven years old, there was no way the young girl could operate it. The nearest neighbour was at least a 15-kilometre hike through a very bushy area not suitable for a young child walking on her own. And so, the only other option for her was to wait in her home in the hopes that someone would come and check up on them. On Saturday, that someone happened to be a friend of Jackie who had become concerned after not hearing from her for a few days and her phone remaining unanswered. When he arrived at the home he said that he found Jackie lying on her bed in a bad state and contacted the police. He has requested anonymity. We spoke to Jackie’s former employer, Percy Scott,

owner of Wax On Wax off vehicle detail centre who said that Jackie had taken a few days off work as she had not been feeling well. According to him she had gone for a Covid-19 test, but it had returned negative and it was discovered that she had a case of bronchitis which compelled her to take some leave. This was confirmed by her sister’s mother-in-law who had travelled to Tzaneen from Northcliff in Gauteng, to manage various legal issues including the custody applications, following the tragedy. “Jackie had a cast on her leg which we think she removed herself because it was extremely hot. The coroner confirmed that her death was due to natural causes and we speculate that her broken leg had not completely set when she removed the cast which may have caused a form of infection that eventually spread. She was on antibiotics at the time, but there has not yet been any confirmation of the exact cause of her death,” explained Isobel Mcaleenan. We received information from a reliable source that while Jackie’s death was found to have been natural causes, the precise cause could not be determined due to the state of the body, given the

long period that passed before she was discovered. Concerning the little girl, Mcaleenan said that the child court process had already started, and that she was in a safe place with people who were trained to deal with the trauma a young child experiences in such cases. “Jackie has two sisters; one lives in the UK and the other in Canada. In Jackie’s will and testament she expressed her desire that her daughter be placed in the guardianship of her sister in Canada should anything happen to her. The court process is underway, and we can therefor not discuss any details. But just know that she is being taken care of.” Bulletin has in the meantime received reports that certain items were removed from the property since Jackie’s death. These items included her motorbike, a generator, and solar panels. Jackie’s remains were cremated yesterday (Thursday, the 14th of January). The national police spokesperson, Brig Motlafela Mojapelo, confirmed that the police were investigating a case of inquest. This is a developing story and we will have a follow up in the months to come.

Tzaneen’s Minitzani Park– what happens now? ■ Joe Dreyer The hot potato public park at Minitzani which was completely fenced off to the public last year stands devoid of activity as the country remains under strict lock down regulations. Last year residents divided on the issue voiced both their support of the project to beautify and fence off the park, as well as their extreme dissatisfaction. A group of residents were upset at the “rules” which prevented entrance to the park without a child. A rule not promulgated by the municipality but proclaimed by a private individual without consultation with the community as per due process. There were also concerns over the leasing of council land and assets at an exorbitant fee, to local businesses reportedly in an effort to raise funds for the maintenance of the park and future projects. These included the opportunity for businesses to rent one of the streets in the park in exchange for up to R10 000 which would entitle them to rename the street to a name of their choosing. Further opportunities offered were the leasing of the various picnic benches in the park which companies were told they could brand with their company logo. The biggest concern however, related to the aesthetics of the once open park which now features brightly coloured palisade fencing adorned with a total of 37 advertisement boards and a lockable entrance gate. The matter was escalated to the office of GTM municipal manager, Thapelo Matlala, who met with Zantelle Ras, the initiator of the project under the name of “Tzaneen Projects” which has now been changed to “Projects without Borders”. During this meeting, held in December last year, Matlala explained that the procedures necessary to launch a public project on council grounds, had not been met. The bylaws pertaining to certain aspects

of the project had not been adhered to and whilst he praised Ras for the undertaking, he expressed concern over the apparent non-compliance and the implications for all parties this may hold. Bulletin has learnt that Ras was asked to remove the advertisement boards from the fence now surrounding the once open park. We asked Ras for clarity on the matter, and will print her response in next week’s addition. In the meantime, DA Constituency Head and MP, Désirée van der Walt, responded to the matter in writing to this publication. In her letter dated the 14th of January, she highlighted some aspects of the project which were overlooked at its inception. “I’d like to comment and share some light on the numerous concerns raised in relation to the Minitzani issue, specifically to the process to be followed relating to ‘improvements and restrictions’ of government properties, including municipal properties,” she said. “As much as any initiatives should always be welcomed, especially in the current situation where a municipality neglects its assets, and service delivery is not at all performed in accordance with the relevant legislation, there are still processes that must be followed.” Van der Walt explained that it should be understood by all parties involved that ownership of public property can never be taken without following the due process and approval. This includes the fencing off and controlling of access to a property thus preventing the public from accessing it at times suitable to them. “In the case of Minitzani we should understand that although it is situated in a specific ward, its purpose was meant for the broader communities of Tzaneen. Over many years our children were taken to Minitzani either by parents, grandparents, creches, playgroups and schools from all areas to let our children play, have their birthday

parties and be educated in a playful manner on traffic signs and rules. Many traffic officers from our municipality played a role in teaching our children these rules. The hall on site is for the use of communities during the day and at night time to hold meetings or events at a small fee or deposit paid to the municipality, which is meant to be used to keep the park clean before and after every meeting. The bus “tuck shop” also provided an entrepreneurial opportunity. As every ward has an elected ward councilor, it opens a direct door to the municipality for any resident to gather information on any processes. It is also an aid in the arrangement of community meetings and for starting a process of engaging the authorities with a proposal. This will then be referred to the relevant department which in turn should write a report to Council for recommendations and decisions. We can however never take ownership of government property without following this due process and obtaining approval. This includes the fencing off and locking of this property, thus preventing residents to use it during times suitable to them. Every municipality has by-laws which deal with advertisements. The concerns raised about receiving payment for advertisements on government properties could result in unforeseen consequences. In the end, a solution can be found to solve this matter in an amicable and compliant way. We must also demand our rights to proper service delivery, maintenance of assets and our safety by those tasked to do so. We as a community should not be divided on matters like this. We all need beautiful and well-maintained safe places, and we should not deny others the same. My door is always open to anyone who needs advice on these matters.”

15 January 2021

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Kruger National Park to demolish two old dams ■ Billy Sibuyi

A dam built almost 50 years ago in the Kruger National Park will be demolished using explosives, as of next week Sunday, the 24th of January. This will continue until the 6th of February. Mingerhout Dam, situated on the S47, roughly nine kilometres north-west of Letaba Camp, will be demolished by the KNP through the help of the South African National Defence Force (SANDF). After the demolition, the rubble will be removed as part of the rehabilitation process undertaken by the Expanded Public Works, Biodiversity Social

Program. “In between the work taking place at Mingerhout Dam, there will be some demolitions for the remaining parts of Kanniedood near Shingwedzi as well, to ensure the safety of tourists,” stated SANParks spokesperson, Isaac Phaahla. Phaahla warned that all roads in those two areas would be temporarily closed for the duration of the demolishing process. “In Letaba, the affected roads are the S47 gravel road, the entire loop of S47 will be closed from the junction of S47 and H1-6 to junction of S47 and S131. In Shingwedzi the S50 gravel road will be closed from the S50 and S134 junction in Shin-

Waitress to sex worker ■ Billy Sibuyi Although perplexing for everyone, the Covid-19 pandemic which is reported to have killed at least 702 people in Limpopo thus far, has had extreme impacts on several populations, many of whom are experiencing economic hardship and uncertainty regarding their health and the virus itself. *Rachel Nyalungu, a sex worker from Phalaborwa, explained to Bulletin that some of the places that sex workers work in have been closed. For their own safety, sex workers in Phalaborwa are avoiding having to come to town daily to work they drastic trade. Many have been left without an income, unable to make ends meet, however it has not stopped them from keeping their masks on and still finding a hidey-hole to quickly service the appetites of the salacious men who stop over for a ‘quick fix’. Nyalungu, a mother of three, has experienced an almost total loss of income since being on lockdown. Predictably, she has struggled to pay her rent and she is not alone as another sex worker, *Vutomi, from Hoedspruit, told Bulletin that she has been struggling to pay rent for the last few months. Propelled by their financial need,

both Nyalunga and Vutomi said they have started agreeing to meet with clients they do not feel comfortable with, or are often forced to negotiate their pricing. “Some customers are using this pandemic to bargain over prices with us and most times they stress for services to be done without the use of condoms for a little bit more money. At times seeing the situation at home and everyone relying on me to provide for them, I accept these sorts of offers,” stated Vutomi. “My family do not know what I do for a living. They think I am working at some lodge here in Hoedspruit, but because of how life is, we all end up somewhere and this is where I ended up.” “Hunger drove me into sex trade,” mentioned Nyalungu, who has been selling sex for nine months now for which she charges about R80, although she is often pushed to accept half of that. “I lie on a cloth spread on top of the bush. It provides comfort suitable for a short time,” she said, adding that going home with the clients known as “all night” costs them about R550. The two girls have different outlooks for their future post-pandemic. Vutomi said she would continue the trade while Nyalungu hoped to return to her old job as a club waitress when the pandemic allows for restaurants and nightclubs to reopen.

gwedzi to the S50 and S143 junction in Mooiplaas.” The Mingerhout Dam, in a published list of registered dams in South Africa, was registered in 1968 and according to Phaahla the dam had over the years silted up to an extent where it was no longer serving its purpose as a dam. “Mingerhout is close to Engelhardt, another dam 16 kilometers away, also near Letaba. Management reached consensus to remove Mingerhout Dam to support the KNP rehabilitation program,” stated Phaahla. “KNP has an artificial water provision policy which allows for the closing and removal of

artificial water points. Artificial water holes where water did not previously occur naturally have led to numerous ecological problems such as erosion and other environmental degradations such as barriers to fish migration routes.” He said that Conservation Management has taken steps to rectify negative consequences by closing and demolishing certain artificial water holes. “To enhance tourist experience, alternative game viewing opportunities will be provided in the future at areas of naturally occurring surface water,” concluded Phaahla.

Welcome to Pigsty-borwa ■ Billy Sibuyi The sewerage stench next to Kruger Spar on the R71 leading to the Kruger National Park Gate has once again become the center of discomfiture for service providers in the surrounding area. The foul-smelling odour that fills the entire area from Steers right through to just before the Kruger National Park gate has seen residents who live nearby opting rather to drive to other retail shops as opposed to having to withstand the dreadful smell. Desiree van der Walt, the constituency head in Limpopo for the Democratic Alliance, had in 2019 laid criminal charges against the Ba-Phalaborwa municipal manager, Maite Moakamela, and the Mopani district municipal manager for contravening the Environmental Act. The act states that everyone has the right to an environment that is not harmful to their health or wellbeing, and

to prevent pollution and ecological degradation. We are not sure what has come of those charges. Angry residents are lashing out at the municipality as more pipes continue to burst, not just in town but in surrounding areas too. It is indicative of ageing infrastructure that has not seen regular maintenance over the course of the last two decades. In the new year, it is alarming to see the municipality still battling with the same thing they have been battling with for the last three years as almost every section in Phalaborwa has sewerage or water leaks. Some roads have deteriorated to such levels that they have rendered some neighbourhoods inaccessible. For the last two years, residents relied on the hope of a plan as promised in the mayoral imbizos, to curb the sewerage situation in the Ba-Phalaborwa Municipality, but to this day – and not surprisingly - nothing has been done about it.

“Please keep the borders closed” ■ Jeff Jackson Limpopo Health MEC, Dr Phophi Ramathuba, welcomed the decision by President Cyril Ramaphosa to close the Beitbridge border post as it reportedly become a so-called “super spreader” for Covid-19. She said the department’s few available resources which were channelled to the border, would now be sent to other avenues to fight the spread of the disease. The sentiments by the MEC came on the day that Home Affairs visited the most northern port of the province to evaluate

the situation. The portfolio committee determined that Beitbridge had turned in a super spreader for Covid-19 because of foreigners rushing to get their tests done in South Africa because of it being cheaper. “The reality is that we are a resource constraint continent and the importation of resources would create more challenges than already faced now. We appeal to the citizens to follow suit and support the president in his call to have the borders closed.” she said. Home Affairs Portfolio chairperson Bongani Bongo said they are going to implement the Border Authority Act, recently signed by Ramaphosa, to quell the situation.

THE LETABA WATER USERS ASSOCIATION/ LETABA NORTH CANAL IRRIGATION BOARD HAS THE FOLLOWING VACANCIES IN THE TZANEEN/LETSITELE AREA: WATER CONTROL AIDE / WATER CONTROL OFFICER The successful candidate will be a wellexperienced, hands-on, motivated individual and will be in possession of the following qualifications: Requirements: • Std. 10/Grade 12 plus relevant experience will be advantageous. • A Mechanical and Concrete building/casting background will be advantageous. • Knowledge of the National Water Act, 36 of 1998, Environmental Acts and related policies, strategies and guidelines, and understanding the principles of “Integrated Water Resource Management” will be an advantage. • Minimum 5 years’ similar extensive experience will be advantageous. • Computer related skills- MS Office, Outlook, etc. will be advantageous. • Must be literate and conversant in Afrikaans and English. • Prepared to work long hours. • Valid driver’s licence minimum Code B is compulsory. Duties include but are not limited to: • Routine maintenance on steel- and concrete structures. • Planned and unplanned maintenance on canal to ensure minimum water losses. • Installation and Maintenance of water metering devices. • Monitoring of meters for accuracy and replacement of defect meters. • Maintenance and storage of stock items and buildings belonging to the Employer. • Cleaning of areas / access to measuring installations to allow proper access in conjunction with landowners. • Any other duties as instructed from time to

time by the Employer. Administrative Duties: • Preparing of monthly reports and presenting the reports at Council Meetings. • Monitoring and taking of water meter readings on intervals as required. Compiling and submission of reports of meter readings on a daily, weekly, and monthly basis for distribution to members. • Keeping records of water usage. • Monitoring and controlling water usage of users to ensure that allocated quotas are not exceeded. • Liaison with property owners on related matters. • Responsible for daily management and coordinating of staff. • Constant awareness of fraudulent activities and unlawful abstraction and taking prompt and firm action against transgressors/ reporting them. • Reporting any irregularities and acting where required in conjunction with the Board. • Appointment of temporary assistants when required. • Any other task as may be required by the Employer. We offer an attractive package commensurate with the level of the post. The Letaba Water User Association/ Letaba North Canal Irrigation Board is an equal opportunity employer. Please e-mail your application to andre@ erwe.co.za. Please mark your application clearly as “Water Control Position”. Should you not hear from us within 14 days of the closing date of this advertisement, please consider your application as unsuccessful. Closing date: 29 January 2021

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15 January 2021

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Louder for the ones in the back Call in the army then! ■ Billy Sibuyi

One of the regular street vendors trading next to the R71. Photo: Joe Dreyer

■ Joe Dreyer As the region readies itself for the coming avocado season, motorists and residents are once again reminded to be cautious of buying fruit from the street hawkers along the R71 especially. Bulletin has in the past reported relentlessly about these illegal hawkers who have setup shop next to busiest road in the area. We have also highlighted, on numerous occasions, the destructive effect of large scale avo theft from the growers in the Tzaneen area. Much of the fruit stolen off these farms end up as produce sold by these illegal hawkers. This statement may appear harsh, but arrests and confiscations of avocadoes have proven this beyond a shadow of doubt. The danger is that the fruit may not have been harvested at the right time which can cause adverse health effects if consumed. This week, the South African Avocado Growers Association (SAAGA) released a warning to this effect. “The new season avocado harvest will start in early February in the earliest production regions,” the statement read. “While we eagerly await the start of the 2021 avocado season, there is a shortage of avocados in the South African market. And when there is a shortage, prices are high. High prices often result in two undesirable spin-offs: unscrupulous growers harvesting

and selling immature fruit which will not ripen properly, and theft.” If you see Fuerte avocados for sale in January in your local retailer or on the roadside, be very wary; there is a good chance that this fruit will not ripen, and it may have been stolen. There may be some “out of season” Fuerte avocados which may ripen. To differentiate between immature or “out of season” fruit, one simply needs to inspect the fruit closely before buying. Out of season Fuerte avocados will be darker in colour and not as shiny as immature fruit. It is unlikely that this fruit will be sold on the road-side. Another useful guideline is to see whether there is still a stalk attached to the fruit. If there is small stalk or stump attached, it is likely that the fruit has been properly harvested. If the stem is not present it is likely that the fruit was stolen. Good farmers will not snap their fruit off the tree – they cut it off with some of the stem remaining attached to the fruit. Avocado thieves, on the other hand, snap the fruit off the trees without the stem as this is far quicker than cutting each stem. If you do buy avocados in January, be on the lookout for the signs of immature and stolen fruit. And if the fruit does not ripen, take it back and request a refund.

N & N KANAAL BESPROEIINGSRAAD

Ward councilor, Jane Williamson, was rigorously criticized by residents of Phalaborwa following her attempts to establish whether a group of road volunteers had obtained permission to repair potholes in the town’s roads on Wednesday afternoon. The road volunteers, known as the ‘A Team’, have continued taking service delivery into their own hands and have systematically filled potholes in the town’s hotspots. However, their good intentions have become somewhat tainted following allegations of threats from one of the towns’ ward councilors, Jane Williamson. In a Facebook post which was widely circulated, Clifford Manyama, the ‘A-team’ captain, expressed their frustration and said that he and his team were finding it difficult to conduct their work in the presence of politicians. “She probably thinks we are doing this because we, just like her, are politicians and that is not the case as we are not even affiliated to politics,” Manyama explained to Bulletin. “We are doing this for the community, and we will continue doing this because that is how we will have safe roads in our town. What we are doing, is what the community has asked of us to do, we are not doing this for our own good but for the greater good of the community.” According to Manyama, Williamson had threatened the team for the second time on Wednesday this week. He said that Williamson ordered the team to stop repairing the potholes while they were busy working on the corner of Tulbach and Grosvenor

Streets. “We were told to stop before she calls the police and I told her to call the defense force.” Manyama told Bulletin that he felt as if the councilor was trying to be a politician and what they were doing, filling potholes, had nothing to do with politics. Bulletin contacted Williamson who denied threatening the volunteers on the road. According to her, she had merely asked them who gave them permission to fill the potholes as the acting Technical Manager for the BPM had not given them permission to work on the municipality’s property. Williamson believes that for the ‘A Team’ to continue contributing to the community by fixing the roads, something the municipality has partially washed its hands of, they need to supply a list to the director of the different places they wished to repair. As proposed by her, the team would then need to make an application to the municipality to fill the potholes, and when they do obtain permission, they could continue with the project. “I understand the team would work through MICA and the homeowners would instruct them to fix the potholes in front of their premises.” Williamson reiterated that the road belonged to the municipality and it was the sole duty of the municipality to maintain it but acknowledged that the potholes were indeed a serious problem. “These potholes are a pain, and I would love to pave every single street in my ward.” Williamson was not keen on answering why she had not done so over the many years of service delivery failures which led to the current state of the roads.

LETABA NOORD KANAAL BESPROEIINGSRAAD

KENNISGEWING VAN VERGADERINGS: 12/01/2021

Hiermee word kennis gegee van die jaarvergadering wat gehou sal word soos hieronder uiteengesit: DATUM: Dinsdag 26 Januarie 2021 TYD: 14:00 PLEK: Komati Groep Raadsaal

KENNISGEWING VAN VERGADERINGS: 12/01/2021 Hiermee word kennis gegee van die jaarvergadering wat gehou sal word soos hieronder uiteengesit: DATUM: Dinsdag 26 Januarie 2021 TYD: 09:00 PLEK: Letaba Landgoed Raadsaal

1. HERSIENING VAN KIESERSLYS Die kieserslys sal ter tafel gelê word vir goedkeuring, indien dit in orde is. Aansprake vir opname in en besware teen name wat op die lys verskyn sal aangehoor word, waarna beslissing daaroor gemaak sal word. ‘n Afskrif van die kieserslys lê ter insae by die Vereniging se kantoor, te Thiemstraat 2, Tzaneen.

2. HERSIENING VAN LYS VAN BELASBARE OPPERVLAKTES (WATER TOEKENNINGS) Die lys sal ter tafel gelê word vir goedkeuring indien dit in orde is. Aansoeke vir opname en/of besware teen aansprake tot insluiting in die lys sal aangehoor word soos hieronder uiteengesit, en wel direk nadat die vergaderinge wat onder paragraaf 1 hierbo bepaal is, afgehandel is. Die lys van belasbare oppervlaktes lê ter insae by die Vereniging se kantoor, Thiemstraat 2, Tzaneen. Aansoeke sal na sluiting van die vergadering oorweeg word vir voorlegging aan die Departement Water en Sanitasie en die Bestuurskomitee. 3. ALGEMENE JAARVERGADERING TEN OPSIGTE VAN HANDELINGE VAN DIE RAAD Hierdie vergadering vir behandeling en goedkeuring van die voorsitters-verslag en die finansiële state van die Vereniging sal soos volg gehou word, direk nadat die vergaderinge wat bepaal is volgens die paragrawe 1 en 2 hierbo afgehandel is. 4. VERKIESING VAN LEDE VIR DIE

BESTUURSKOMITEE Die dienstermyne van die volgende lede het verstryk. P.J. Smit, A.J. van Wyk, P.G. Vorster, B. Klinkert en J.E. Vorster. Nominasies ter vulling van die vakatures sal ontvang word direk nadat die vergaderinge onder paragrawe 1, 2, en 3 afgehandel is. Al die lede is herkiesbaar. Indien meer kandidate as waarvoor vakatures bestaan sal ‘n verkiesing gehou word op die dag en tyd en wel vir so ‘n tydsduur soos bepaal deur die kiesbeampte (Voorsitter of genomineerde van die Voorsitter). Slegs eienaars of gevolmagtigdes van eienaars, Maatskappye, Beslote Korporasies, Trusts en Venootskappe wie se heffings ten volle betaal is, is stemgeregtig of kwalifiseer vir benoeming as kandidate. Rekeninge wat 90 dae of langer uitstaande is, sal lei tot diskwalifikasie vir benoeming en/of stem regtigheid. Volmagte wat uitgereik word moet verkieslik in die besit wees van die Sekretaris of die Uitvoerende Beampte van die Bestuurskomitee minstens 24 uur voor die tyd en datum van die vergadering. Elke persoon wat geregtig is om in die verkiesing van lede van die Bestuurskomitee te stem, is slegs geregtig om persoonlik of deur ‘n volmaghouer te stem by wyse van stembriewe en in terme van die aantal stemme wat aangegee word op die kieserslys. A.J.VENTER SEKRETARIS

POSBUS 3970, TZANEEN, 0850 • TEL: (015) 307 6056 • E-POS: andre@erwe.co.za

2.HERSIENING VAN LYS VAN BELASBARE OPPERVLAKTES (WATER TOEKENNINGS) Die lys sal ter tafel gelê word vir goedkeuring indien dit in orde is. Aansoeke vir opname en/of besware teen aansprake tot insluiting in die lys sal aangehoor word soos hieronder uiteengesit, en wel direk nadat die vergaderinge wat onder paragraaf 1 hierbo bepaal is, afgehandel is. Die lys van belasbare oppervlaktes lê ter insae by die Vereniging se kantoor, Thiemstraat 2, Tzaneen. Aansoeke sal na sluiting van die vergadering oorweeg word vir voorlegging aan die Departement Water en Sanitasie en die Bestuurskomitee. 3.ALGEMENE JAARVERGADERING TEN OPSIGTE VAN HANDELINGE VAN DIE RAAD Hierdie vergadering vir behandeling en goedkeuring van die voorsitters-verslag en die finansiële state van die Vereniging sal soos volg gehou word, direk nadat die vergaderinge wat bepaal is volgens die paragrawe 1 en 2 hierbo afgehandel is. 4.VERKIESING VAN LEDE VIR DIE BESTUURSKOMITEE Die dienstermyne van die volgende lede het

verstryk. J. Gubitz, A.J. van Wyk, P.G. Vorster, A.J.L. van Wyngaardt, B. van Staden en J.C.A. Botma. Nominasies ter vulling van die vakatures sal ontvang word direk nadat die vergaderinge onder paragrawe 1, 2, en 3 afgehandel is. Al die lede is herkiesbaar. Indien meer kandidate as waarvoor vakatures bestaan sal ‘n verkiesing gehou word op die dag en tyd en wel vir so ‘n tydsduur soos bepaal deur die kiesbeampte (Voorsitter of genomineerde van die Voorsitter). Slegs eienaars of gevolmagtigdes van eienaars, Maatskappye, Beslote Korporasies, Trusts en Venootskappe wie se heffings ten volle betaal is, is stemgeregtig of kwalifiseer vir benoeming as kandidate. Rekeninge wat 90 dae of langer uitstaande is, sal lei tot diskwalifikasie vir benoeming en/of stem regtigheid. Volmagte wat uitgereik word moet verkieslik in die besit wees van die Sekretaris of die Uitvoerende Beampte van die Bestuurskomitee minstens 24 uur voor die tyd en datum van die vergadering. Elke persoon wat geregtig is om in die verkiesing van lede van die Bestuurskomitee te stem, is slegs geregtig om persoonlik of deur ‘n volmaghouer te stem by wyse van stembriewe en in terme van die aantal stemme wat aangegee word op die kieserslys. A.J.VENTER SEKRETARIS

POSBUS 3970, TZANEEN, 0850 • TEL: (015) 307 6056 • E-POS: andre@erwe.co.za

15 January 2021

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Grave diggers capitalize ■ Jeff Jackson There is new tendency in the rural areas around Tzaneen where grave diggers now charge for their services. It has emerged that the grave diggers have now formed themselves into co-operatives and were charging for the service of digging graves. This at a time the number of people dying, has dramatically increased and it is expected to sky rocket according to the department of Home Affairs. Funeral undertakers have complained that with the number of casualties on the increase, they have experienced coffin shortages to an increase in demand. A member of the South African National Civics Organization (SANCO), Joseph Lebepe, said that in the past when there was a bereavement in the community, members of the community who are free and related to the affected families, would collect digging tools at the traditional court and head

You will wait for ID ■ Jeff Jackson

to the cemeteries for free. He said that now things had changed after it was announced that only 50 people could attend funerals. Therefore families were left with nobody to dig the graves, which in turn created the market for the grave diggers. They are the preferred choice of service provider for families who are unable to afford the cost of hiring a TLB. In the townships the custom upon receipt of death is to report to the local municipality and pay a fee for the booking of a grave which includes the digging of the grave. In rural villages however, a death is reported to the village headman who then gives consent to access the graveyard. If the deceased was not residing in that area, a fee is charged for the use of a grave. In the meantime, the department of Home Affairs has requested that residents obtain birth and death certificates from the hospitals where they occurred to avoid congestion at the department offices. On Tuesday, Home Affairs minister, Aaron Motsoaledi, said that in the first five days of the month the department had issued 10 532 death certificates for December 2020. In December 2019, the department issued 38 620 certificates while in December 2018 a total of 36 825 certificates were issued.

The issuing of marriage certificates, passports and Smart Identity Documents (ID`s) was suspended indefinitely by the department of Home Affairs as of Monday. This is to enable the department to speedily issue death certificates resulting from the many deaths caused by Covid-19 according to Home Affairs minister Dr Aaron Motsoaledi. The announcement was made during a briefing co-arranged by Cooperative Governance and Traditional Affairs (Cogta) minister, Nkosazana Dlamini-Zuma and Motsoaledi. The briefing was aimed at explaining the pronouncement by President Cyril Ramaphosa during his last family meeting. Motsoaledi also said that the department had between March and December had 532 staff members testing positive with the Covid-19 virus. He further announced that only matriculants may apply for an ID while passports applications will only be accepted from those who are permitted to travel under the amended regulations. This was preceded by the closing of

the land border posts until mid-February. He said the suspensions of these critical services were motivated by the increasing numbers of the department of Home Affairs staff members testing positive for the virus. From the 1st of January this year 412 of the 266 offices had to close at some point since the lockdown in March. When a staff member tested positive, those who were in contact with that staff member, including clients, have to be traced and the office temporarily closed for decontamination. “This had led to a situation where out of the 5 734 employees, 4 502 were affected one way or the other. Either they were infected, or they were contacts of those who were infected or come from families where one was infected." he further said. He cautioned that by the end of January, they would have even more death registrations than in December. It has emerged that the hold-up at Beit Bridge border post was caused by the fact that testing for Covid-19 in Zimbabwe cost nearly R1 000 while in South Africa they were charged just R170 which forced people to congregate at Musina, to pay less.

Legals IN THE MAGISTRATES COURT FOR THE DISTRICT OF TZANEEN HELD AT LENYENYE CASE NUMBER: 367/2019 In the case between: CHAMP FOODS MANUFACTURING CC EXECUTION CREDITOR and BUDHYANA WHOLESALERS (PTY) LTD EXECUTION DEBTOR NOTICE OF SALE IN EXECUTION – AUCTION PURSUANT to a judgement by the magistrate Lenyenye given on 10 February 2020 the under mentioned goods will be sold at TRANSNET HOUSE NR 20, HAMAWASHA TZANEEN, on 2 FEBRUARY 2021 by public auction to be held at 13:00, by the Sheriff for the Magistrates Court, to the highest bidder for cash, namely: 1 X DISPLAY FREEZER 1 X ACER PC (PAYPOINT) 1 X STOCK IN TRADE 1 X TROLLEY (BLUE) 1 X ACER SECURITY

SYSTEM 1 X FURNITURE IN TRADE 3 X STOCK SHELVES 1. This sale is a sale in execution pursuant to a judgment obtained in the above honorable court. 2. The rules of the auction are available 24 hours prior to the auction at the office of the Sheriff, 13 Naboom Street, Phalaborwa. 3. Registration as a buyer is a pre-requisite subject to specific conditions, inter alia. 4. Directive of the Consumer Protection Act 68 of 2008; (Url http://www.info.gov. za/view/downloadfileaction?id-99961). 5. Fica legislation i.r.o. proof of identity and address particulars; payment of registration deposit of R500.00 in cash. 6. The office of the Sheriff will conduct the sale with the auctioneers. 7. Goods will be sold for cash only to the highest bidder or sold subject to

confirmation as per the Consumer Protection Act upon instruction from the execution creditor. DATED at TZANEEN on 18 NOVEMBER 2020 (sgnd) J STEYN ATTORNEYS FOR EXECUTION CREDITOR JOHAN STEYN ATTORNEYS ELITA NO. 1 CNR AGATHA & SHORT STREET TZANEEN P O BOX 1363 TZANEEN, 0850 Tel: 015 307-5792 / 5694 Fax: 015 307-2553 E-mail: johanprk@mweb. co.za Ref: J STEYN/sdj/BB4718 Jan201___________________________

IN THE MAGISTRATE’S COURT FOR THE SUB-DISTRICT OF TZANEEN HELD AT TZANEEN CASE NO.202/19 In the matter between :BDM DIESEL CENTRE PLAINTIFF and TZANEEN VEHICLE

REPAIRS DEFENDANT AUCTION IN PURSUANCE of a Judgment and Warrant of Execution issued in the above Court for district of TZANEEN the under mentioned goods have been attached, and will be sold in execution for cash or Bank Guaranteed cheque to the highest bidder at 10H00 ON 11 FEBRUARY 2021 AT THE SHERIFF LETABA'S STORE ROOM, MAIN STORE NO. 2 INDUSTRIA ROAD 20, TZANEEN. 1.The sale is a sale in execution pursuant to a judgment obtained in the above honourable court. 2. The rules of the auction is available 24 hours prior to the auction at the office of the Sheriff, 33A Pieter Joubert Street, Tzaneen. 3. Registration as a buyer is a pre-requisite subject to a specific condition, inter alia. 4. Directive of the Con-

sumer Protection Act 68 of 2008; (Url http://www.info.gov. za/view/downloadfileaction?id-99961); 5. FICA legislation i.r.o. proof of identify and address particulars; payment of registration deposit of R500.00 in cash. 6. The office of the Sheriff will conduct the sale with the auctioneers being Tertius Robertson or any representative of his office. 7. Goods will be sold for cash only to the highest bidder or sold subject to confirmation as per the Consumer Protection Act upon instructions from the execution creditor. GOODS 1 x COMPUTER 1 X HP PRINTER 1 X TOOLS IN TRADER DATED at TZANEEN this 13 January 2021. (sgd) N VAN WYNGAARDT STEWART MARITZ BASSON INC. LEX NUMERI 32 Peace Street

Tzaneen Ref: NVW/MK/B293 Jan202___________________________

IN THE REGIONAL COURT FOR THE REGIONAL DIVISION OF LIMPOPO HELD AT TZANEEN CASE NUMBER: LP/TZN/ RC171/20 IN THE MATTER BETWEEN WHISTLE LOGISTICS AND TRADING (PTY) LTD PLAINTIFF AND MASTERLOADS LOGISTICS (PTY) LTD DEFENDANT NOTICE OF SALE IN EXECUTION/AUCTION OF MOVABLE PROPERTY KINDLY TAKE NOTICE THAT, in terms of a Judgment granted on 13/10/2020, in the Tzaneen Regional Court and a Warrant of Execution issued thereafter, the undermentioned moveable property will be sold in execution to the highest bidder, with no reserve price on Thursday 11/02/2021 at 10h00 by

public auction to be held at Sheriff Letaba’s Store Room, Main Store No. 2, 20 Industrial Road, Tzaneen. Item Nr: Description: Quantity: 1.Mercedez Benz Artos 3348 (Reg: CSX 144 L) x 1 2. Afrit Flat Deck Truck (Reg: DJD 459 L) x 1 3. Scania R460 (Reg: DXB 882L) x 1 TERMS AND CONDITIONS: a) This sale is a sale in execution pursuant to a judgment obtained in the above honourable Court b) The rules of the auction is available 24 hours prior to the auction at the office of the Sheriff, 33A Pieter Joubert Street, Tzaneen; c) Registration as a Buyer is a requirement in terms of the following: • The Consumer Protection Act 68 of 2009; • The Financial Intelligence Centre Act 38 of 2001. d) Payment of registration deposit of R500.00 in cash; e) The office of the Sheriff

will conduct the sale with the auctioneers being Tertius Robertson or any representative of his office; f) Goods will be sold for cash to the highest bidder or sold subject to confirmation as per the Consumer Protection Act upon instructions from the Execution Creditor. Or his/her attorneys; g) The Purchaser must remove any and all goods purchased from the premises on the day of the auction. SIGNED AT ERMELO ON THE 18TH DAY OF JANUARY 2021 . STRAUSS ATTORNEYS INC ATTORNEYS FOR PLAINTIFF(S) 10 TAUTE STREET POSTNET SUITE 852 PRIVATE BAG X9013 ERMELO 2350 TEL: 017 811 5353 FAX: 017 811 5355 REF: CS1022 / C SOUTHEY / SVW Jan203___________________________

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15 January 2021

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Dakar race team tough as badgers ■

Roelof de Jonge

Since the last time Bulletin reported on the progress of Brian Baragwanath and Taye Perry in their Century Racing Corvette who are competing in the 2021 Dakar Rally in Saudi Arabia, the pair have experienced some amazing moments. Being the Dakar and known for its relentless disappointments it can dish out to the competitors any time of the race, it caused for some distress in Sunday’s stage 7 when their racing car ran into suspension trouble. But phew, they made it albeit being towed to the overnight halt. After doing so well in stage four, Baragwanath met with one of his childhood heroes at the start of stage 5 on Thursday morning. By the time Bulletin was already from the printing press, Baragwanath and Perry went way better than the previous day to post the second fastest time behind Giniel de Villiers in the works Toyota GAZOO Hilux, a mere 58 seconds slower in a rear-wheel-drive race car compared to the all-wheel drive of the GAZOO Hilux. Limpopo’s racer and Perry were brimming with confidence after their performance of the previous day and were eager to chase down the front leaders in stage 6 on Friday. They managed to post quite an ‘adventurous’ sixth fasted time for the stage and moved up to sixth place overall. “We got out of jail today, we did a barrel roll and was grateful to landed on the wheels again. There was a bit of bodywork damage, but otherwise we and the car were fine.” “To chase Nasser, Peterhansel, de Villiers and Alrhaji was too much fun! The dunes were choppy and full of holes and it was hard on the

cars today. I am glad we made it home with a smooth run and to be 6th overall. Tomorrow is a rest day or rather workday for us as we will rebuild the cars for stage 7 on Sunday.” Who said never on a Sunday? After a very long Sunday Baragwanath and Perry made it back to the overnight halt at 01:00 on a string and worked on the car until 05:00. “We just kept going like badgers. Starting 104th for stage 8 after an amazing coffee. It was still not easy staying awake on the liaison

after the night we had, even with the magnificent scenery around us. “Apart from that, we had a fairly clean run with lots of dust and some intense overtakes all day. It was a very rutted out track, but we managed a 12th fastest time to finish stage 8 with four more stages to go.” On Tuesday for stage 9, the Century Racing Team finished fifth fastest to move up more positions after their Sunday calamity. “It was hard to put the hammer down today for stage 10! There were loads of tracks causing a few issues with the high-speed navigation required. We finished with a ninth fasted time on the stage. Looking forward to the longest stage tomorrow (Thursday).” So, after stage 10, Baragwanath and Perry holds on to 34th place overall, with two more stages to go.

Mazda introduces another CX-5 model to line-up Roelof de Jonge

Mazda announced an update to its Mazda CX-5 range with arrival of the CX-5 2.0L Carbon Edition FWD. This model will serve as an alternative offering to the rest of the CX-5 2.0L range, offering an exclusive and sporty look, on both the exterior and interior. The Carbon Edition comes standard with the same 2.0L SKYACTIV-G engine which delivers 121kW of power and 213Nm of torque that is on offer in the current 2.0L range. The 2.0L Carbon Edition FWD will be available in automatic transmission only. The specification will be based on the current 2.0L Individual Auto FWD. The 2.0L Carbon Edition FWD will be a replacement model for the outgoing 2.0L Individual Auto FWD.

The exterior will include sporty styling elements such as glossy black exterior mirrors and 19-inch black metallic alloy wheels. The interior package will include black film on the dashboard and door panels, red stitching on the steering wheel, gear lever, knee pads and seats and a leather and suede combination for the seat trimming with added red stitching. The new added Mazda CX-5 2.0L Carbon edition is available at all Mazda dealers across South-Africa. The Mazda CX -5 range comes standard with a three-year unlimited kilometre service plan. To provide complete peace of mind motoring, a three-year factory warranty, a three-year roadside assistance plan and a five-year Corrosion Warranty are included.

SPECIFICATIONS: The Mazda CX-5 2.0L Carbon Edition model will be available in the following six colours: Snowflake White Pearl Sonic Silver Machine Grey Soul Red Crystal Polymetal Grey Jet Black The model specification remains unchanged for the Mazda CX-5 range, except for the 2.0L Carbon Edition FWD model. The Mazda CX-5 model line-up will be retained in its current format, offering seven derivatives: 2.0L Active FWD (Manual and Auto) 2.0L Dynamic FWD (Manual and Auto) 2.0L Carbon Edition FWD (Auto) 2.5L Individual AWD (Auto) 2.2L DE Akera AWD (Auto)

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Sport

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15 January 2021

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Ban on schools and amateur rugby just rumours ■ Roelof de Jonge

Rumours that the school and amateur rugby calendars may be shelved this year, have been dismissed as just that. Reasons for the rumours stem from the costly exercise to comply with Covid-19 regulations which include the testing of the players before scheduled games. Such an announcement would be a tremendous blow to especially school players who would potentially miss out on showcasing their talents to national scouts. Bulletin spoke to Gustav Grobler, vice-president for schools rugby of the Limpopo Blue Bulls Rugby Union, to confirm any of these rumours. “At this stage we are going ahead with plans for school rugby to commence. Unless the Departments of Sport, Arts and Culture and of Basic Education state otherwise, we will be going ahead. We already lost out

tremendously

last

year and we really hope that another ban on schools rugby is not on the cards this year.” “It also has huge emotional and psychological effects on the children because they need sports to be active to rid them of emotions and frustrations. Rugby is one such sport where that offers children the release they require,” he explained. “I have spoken with Willem Strauss, president of the Vodacom Blue Bulls Rugby Union in regard to this issue, and he assured me that their union has received no word yet about any banning of schools and amateur rugby.” The South African Rugby Union (SARU) and the South African Schools Rugby Association (SASRA) held a virtual meeting on Tuesday the 12th of January where the current level 3 adjusted lockdown regulations and the impact of the second wave of Covid-19 was discussed in an effort to plan a way forward for the 2021 schools rugby season. The meeting deliberated upon the following issues: •The second wave of Covid-19 and the risk that it poses to the welfare of players. •The approach to planning the start of the rugby season. More specifically, that the planning is done in a structured way to ensure that it provides a sense of “hope” to players and coaching staff. •The costly financial impact brought about by the testing procedures involved to have matches played, using the current Currie Cup competition as an example. •The physical, emotional, and mental well-being of players. •The lack of rugby and its impact on the Hi-performance

programme of SARU. •The protection of the game of rugby. The following consensus was reached after the deliberations: 1) All rugby activities are suspended, including training until the 8th of February 2021. 2) SASRA, with the help of SA Rugby, will monitor the transmission and infection status of the virus in the country on an ongoing basis during the time of suspension as well as when rugby training and match play returns. 3) All Associations and schools will be informed when a return to train will be implemented, once it is established that the infection rate in all the provinces have returned to its previous status, indicating that the second wave of the virus are under control. 4) When rugby returns to training the following structured approach will be adopted to ensure that the safety of the players is taken into consideration: A) Phase 1: A minimum of 4 weeks of non-contact training. The emphasis during this time will be focused on fitness and strength. B) Phase 2: Following phase 1 (and if permitted by the relevant authoritative bodies) a minimum of 4 weeks gradual integration of contact training. According to SASRA, the Department of Basic Education has not yet gazetted any

changes to what they previously published. SARU and SASRA will communicate any changes that may affect schools rugby should there be any new releases from the Departments of Basic Education and from Sports, Recreation and Arts and Culture. It remains a responsibility to ensure that the learners that participate in the game of rugby do so in an environment that does no harm and mitigates against the risk of unnecessary illness and injury, as SA Rugby remains the controlling body and the custodian of rugby in South Africa. The U/18 and U/13 Craven Week tournaments specifically, are events where schoolboy rugby players would like to impress the national scouts. Rugby unions and scouts from around the world attended the annual national rugby youth weeks to headhunt future talents. If such a proposed ban comes into effect, these youth weeks which usually commence over the June, July school holiday, will have to be canned as there will not be enough time for provincial teams to select players and for the players to compete in trials.