Northern KwaZulu-Natal Courier, Dundee

uThukela faces axe

2012-01-31T02:14:00.001-08:00

The Umzinyathi District Municipality is celebrating the good news of receiving a clean audit report, while uThukela Water is facing the axe.
District Mayor, Rev James Mthethwa, addressing a full council meeting last Wednesday where the audit report was tabled, revealed that uThukela Water would be dissolved in July following consultation with the MEC.
He claimed the axing was due to 'non-performance' which some years ago resulted in the MEC of Local Government in the Province putting the utility under an Administrator.
Rev Mthethwa added there had been 'ongoing complaints about uThukela Water' from various communities.
Pressed by journalists as to what would happen to staff members, the Mayor said 'we will keep workers' but discussions are 'on-going'. He also said there would be 'one billing system’ (for rates, electricity, water etc.) to 'make life easier for the consumer'.
"A new forum will come into place represented by the Amajuba and Umzinyathi District Councils. This forum will determine the (water) tariffs. I promise we won't replace uThukela with another uThukela." According to the Mayor this 'forum' and local municipalities will be responsible for water reticulation.
However, sources told the Courier that they feared a 'huge increase' in water tariffs should uThukela be dissolved.
The lack of funding to the utility has caused massive backlogs in maintenance to the water networks and this will now be passed on to already cash-strapped local municipalities.
Meanwhile, the Auditor General's Office in KZN will throw a party for the Umzinyathi District Council after they had been able to achieve a clean audit report for 2010/11.
Senior Manager from the AG’s office, Jonathan Soobramoney, told the council that the Umzinyathi District council is leading by example.
He said this council must go forward to be an example to other local municipalities 'on how to get a clean audit'.

Jibe angers officials

2012-01-31T02:13:00.001-08:00

A jibe over officials being incompetent did little to carry through the festive spirit at the first Executive Committee meeting of the year in Endumeni last Thursday.
Although Councillor Mfanafuthi Zwane was immediately asked to withdraw the comment after objections from Councillor Anthon Raubenheimer, it set the tone for a rather 'stony-faced' meeting.
The fact that minutes earlier Financial Manager, Ian Grisdale, had asked for a round of applause after a representative from the Auditor General's office had given the Municipality 'an unqualified audit' for the third year in a row, added to the irony of the meeting.
Councillor Zwane's criticism involved a media centre at Sithembile which he alleged had taken so 'long because of incompetent officials'.
Finance manager, Ian Grisdale, later told the Courier that the 'improvements to the Sithembile library had to be approved by council and funds accessed from Councillor Zwane's ward allocation.'
"It is just merely a process and one that has to be followed correctly according to the Municipal law," Mr Grisdale said. At the meeting, Councillor Raubenheimer objected to the term 'incompetence' with members of the public and media in the gallery. Mr Grisdale also objected to the comment.
Another 'hot topic', raised by former Mayor, Bongiwe Mbatha, was that of the Mayoral Games that took place in early January. She claimed that council had taken a decision not to continue with the games.
Mayor Thulani Mahaye said the executive council has delegated powers to 'over-turn whatever decisions (are) taken by the council.'
"The money used for the games was taken from the Mayoral Fund and there was no other way to postpone the games as preparations had already been done." Executive committee members Anthon Raubenheimer, and the Deputy Mayor Thandanani Mkhize supported Mayor Mahaye. Both rejected Councillor Zwane's call that 'they as individuals be responsible for the money spent on the games'. The Mayor told the council that he has a responsibility to promote the image of the municipality, therefore, when resolutions are taken 'surprises must be avoided.'
Councillor Mbatha took another swipe at officials 'for spending too much on consultants to do their jobs'.
"That money should be used for organising summer games for the youth." She was supported by Councillor Zwane.
The meeting continued on a rather rocky road with an emotional Councillor Makhaba complaining of the delay in the building of houses and the handing over of title deeds to those who live in State houses.
While the latter appears to be a Department of Housing function, the delays in housing have been blamed on the unavailability of water connections in the area that are the function of uThukela Water.
District Mayor, Rev James Mthethwa, said at a separate press conference that uThukela Water 'would be axed as a service provider in June'. Endumeni Councillor, JA Mfeka, who also serves on the Umzinyathi Council, confirmed this. Mayor Mahaye said Umzinyathi has set aside R20 million to upgrade the water network in Endumeni and hopefully this will solve the problem. Councillors were not happy to hear from technical manager, Bart Maltman that the State houses will only be built by 2015. There were also concerns that a resolution passed by the previous council to install solar geysers at RDP houses had not been implemented.

Back-pay for Councillors

The issue of the hiring of an LED (local economic development) manager was also placed on the table and acting municipal manager Percy Mabilisa explained that the manager would be available in due course and the progress will be given in the next meeting. Councillors were not to be happy about this explanation. They demanded that Mr Mabilisa must be specific with the date.
The only good news - as far as Councillors were concerned - is their 5% increase, back-paid from July 1 2011. This was paid in on July 25 after the MEC’s instant approval.
n Endumeni Municipality is 'one step away from being a clean audit' - the best an institution can received, said Jonathan Soobra

Pride in Post Offices to be restored

2012-01-31T02:12:00.002-08:00

The shocking state of the Dundee and Dannhauser Post Offices is soon to be stamped out.
Residents have complained about the untidy appearance of the Post Office and the roofing above the boxes that is falling apart.
Some are scared that the panels will fall on top of them while they collect their mail.
Other complaints include the fact that the boxes are shabby and don't promote a good image.
With the entrance to Dundee getting a major facelift and a R50 million project earmarked for the CBD, the Post Office is falling way behind.
The new court buildings currently being constructed next to the Post Office also steal the spotlight.
Residents are hoping that the matter will be seen to and the failing infrastructure fixed.
Dannhauser Post Office is equally bad - if not worse.
The section that houses the post boxes is also home to all those who are looking for a good spot to drink alcohol in public, away from the prying eyes of the police.
Those collecting their post often comment on the stench of urine and alcohol.
The building has also been vandalised, the windowpanes shattered and lewd graffiti sprayed on the walls.
When approached for comment, Johan Kruger, Manager of External Communication for the South African Post Office, said that he would contact their maintenance officers in the province to follow up the matter.
Mr Kruger informed the Courier that the Post Office needed to go through certain processes to appoint maintenance contractors but that property managers promised that these steps would be taken as fast as possible.
Mr Kruger added that the police were also contacted regarding the individuals who use the post box area for public drinking and they have promised to monitor this situation more closely to ensure that it stops.

Imbizo pay out mystery remains

2012-01-31T02:12:00.001-08:00

A year on and there are still unanswered questions over the Mayoral Imbizo that never was…
The former council had proposed that a Mayoral Imbizo be held - a decision that was later overturned as it was felt the event would 'turn political' as the May 18 local government elections were looming.
However, it was then heard that a group of Newcastle consultants had already been paid around R60 000 for work already done, allegedly, to organise the Imbizo that never was.
Despite constant badgering for an explanation, the Endumeni Residents Association are yet to receive feedback although chairman, FC Bester, remains hopeful that a breakdown of the money paid to the consultant will be forthcoming following a meeting with the Mayor, Deputy and Speaker in December.
Councillor arrears
Turning to other matters, Mr Bester said the Association was concerned that one (Endumeni) councillor owes over R30 000 in service charge arrears. This councillor is the only one who has also made no attempt to pay off the arears - two others who owe around R2 000 and R11 000 respectively have made arrangement to pay off their debt.
Beautify
Mr Bester told the Courier that the association, which is now affiliated to civil rights group, AfriForum, was also hoping to beautify the vacant land adjacent to the police garage on Karellandman Street.
"We hope to put up shelters, tables and chairs - keep it clean - where workers in the area can rest and/or eat their lunch during their off time," he said.
He was also hopeful that the authorities will eventually move or block off the police 'scrapyard', which he feels spoils the image of Dundee to visitors travelling in on the main road.
"Congratulations to George Adalis of Super Spar on undertaking this huge project that has transformed the central business district. With the council now intending to vastly improve the rest of Victoria and Willson Streets this augurs well for our town. However, we believe much can still be done to regulate street traders who are severely affecting formal businesses who are forced to follow a host of health and other regulations before they can even open their doors.
"What I propose is that a council delegation visit Marble Hall in Mpumalanga where much has been done to set up proper shelters and toilet facilities for street traders in a central area - to the benefit of all."

Dynamic Talana unveils new exhibit

2012-01-31T02:11:00.001-08:00

The dynamic Talana Museum is once again on the move. Founded over 30 years ago to commemorate the 1979 centenary of the Anglo Zulu War, the Museum has again kept up with modern trends by revamping the much-vaunted Anglo Zulu War exhibit.
Red-coated soldiers and Zulu warriors were at the opening of the exhibition, along with representatives of the local tourism industry and friends of the Museum.
Pam McFadden, Museum curator, said she was especially pleased that the project, that took about two years to complete, was done 'in house' with the new signage done by local business, D & E, and research undertaken by Museum staff.
The Board of Trustees paid for the improvements. A piper, David Wait, led guests into the Museum where Paul Garner,
who was on the committee that founded Dundee's Museum 30 years ago, officially opened the exhibition.
In his address Paul sketched the history of the Museum. "Prior to Talana, Dundee had the Moth Shellhole Museum and the town museum which was just two rooms in the old Dundee Primary School - now the Majuba College opposite the Post Office. "When I was in Library and Museum Services in the late 1970s there was a drive for all small towns in Natal to start Museums as run up to the centenary of the Anglo Zulu War
"A committee driven by the legendary Sheila Henderson was formed and our first task was to encourage the townsfolk to fish out their 'old grannie and grandad's' stuff out of the attic that we could use as a basis of some kind of Museum."
Paul added that with Dundee at the centre of the battlefields in the Province it was important for the town to have the best Museum. The locals responded magnificently, bringing in their artefacts, which were then sorted and put on display at the Moth Hall.

Devil’s Advocate

2012-01-31T02:10:00.001-08:00

Nuwejaarsjakkalsies. Partykeer wil die boggers maar net nie loop lê nie.
Ek dink nou maar aan die plaaslike boer wat nog gedag het hy ry, toe skep die trein hom onder sy Landcruiser uit. Gelukkig het hy niks ernstig oorgekom nie.
Of soos die worshond nou die dag dink dat hy kan een van Dundee se Berearotte somaar aan die kraag loop vat en sy nek af skud.
Nee, meneer. Daai rot slaan sy tande deur die worshond se lip dat die man gil van kwaadgeit. Hy skud die rot verbete van sy snoet af en gee my die vuilste kyk wat 'n worshond kan.
Hy het nie veel kans gehad om sy misnoeë uit te spreek nie, want toe pak daai moerse rot hom. Onse aarde…
Die bullie kom sluit vreesaanjaend by die geveg aan, en die eerste wat sy in haar bek kry, is ou Stoffel se keel. Wat reeds die rot daar het. Die bullie begin toutrek aan die rot se agterstewe, die rot byt aan Stoffel, Stoffel gil en knor en roggel van kwaadgeit, of vrees, en ek besluit maar om te gaan help.
Ek gryp 'n stuk brandring, en die vegtendes verpoos 'n breukdeel van 'n sekonde toe ek naby kom. Stoffel kry die rot aan sy voorkant beet, en die rot begin sy bes doen om die worshond se oor af te vreet in die tydjie wat hy nog gaan lewe.
Die bullie trek van agter, en die afloop van hierdie oneweredige geveg kan net op een manier uitspeel. Hulle skeur die rot in twee, en elkeen hardloop met sy deel van die buit in twee verskillende rigtings.
Stoffel kry die halwe rot van sy oor af geskud, en die bullie het reeds haar deel vies onder die kamferboom gaan los. Ek het maar die gemors met die hoëdrukspuit weggespoel.
Gisteroggend bars die onheil weer met 'n gedruis los soos die jakkalse deur die agtertuin storm. My suikerbekkies, wat gereeld in die sigaretbos by die kombuisvenster kom eet, raak vies aan die skel. Daar het 'n tiptol in die bos langs die suikerbekkie kom sit, en die man het bitterlik eksepsie geneem.
Die twee staan en beduie mekaar nog oor hierdie mistasting, toe swiep die lysters oor hulle. Die lyster het ook een of ander beswaar gehad. In die luiperdboom het die wewers begin protesteer oor die kabaal.
Ek staan en kyk verbaas oor hoe al die tweepotiges, vierpotiges, geveerdes en diesmeer mekaar in die hare vlieg, en wonder: is dit dalk iets in die water..? Hierdie ding dat almal mekaar wil pakgee as iemand net skeef kyk of in 'n verkeerde skaduwee trap…?? Ons ry mekaar van die strate af, ons skel dat die vensters tril as iemand net bietjie te stadig voor ons ry, en ons het geen konsiderasie vir 'n vreemdeling nie. Aap en sy squad Harley-ryende bobbies moet dalk 'n slag van Karellandmanstraat af tot teen Talanaberg beginne skoonmaak.
Vee al hierdie skoro-skoro taxis op 'n hoop, gooi die skuim wat mense se honde vergiftig daarby, rond dit af met al die moangatte en rommelstrooiers in die dorp, en steek die spulletjie aan die brand.
Aap moet net onthou om die brandblusser te gaan volmaak…

For Auld Lang Syne

2012-01-31T02:09:00.001-08:00

Dundee rediscovered it’s Scottish heritage with the hosting of 'Burns Night' to honour the birth in 1759 of Scotland's greatest poet, Robbie Burns.
'Birn's Nichts' are commonplace in the Western world. Dundee, South Africa, has not hosted one for some time, but Pam McFadden and her team at Talana Museum put on a night to remember on January 25.
Guests, many dressed in kilts, took their seats in the hall after being led in by young piper, David Wait - a nephew of Pam's.
Tartan imagery was everywhere and the menu was decidedly Celtic with, of course, haggis, taking centre court along with tatties, neeps and peas, Scottish whisky trifle and guess what - Dundee cake, of course!
The highlight was the piping in of a steaming haggis - which is really just a sheep's stomach containing liver, intestines and other tripe.
But the tradition adds to the taste. Paul Garner did a magnificent Robbie Burns version of addressing the haggis that ended with him stabbing the 'poor beastie' with a dirk (dagger).
Pat Rundgren performed an entertaining if not 'eclectic' toast to the haggis after which the guests, who included several tourists, tucked in. There is no doubt that Burns Night may just become yet another red-letter day on the calendar.
Just a pity that Dundee's own Robert Burns - senior and junior - were not there…Actor and tour guide, Paul Garner, brought the house down with his entertaining ‘Dundee’ version of addressing the much-vaunted haggis.

Upgrade on track

2012-01-31T01:53:00.000-08:00

The renovations to Pro Nobis are moving along at a steady pace and principal, Dolf Myburg and staff, are impressed with the progress so far.
Mr Myburg could not pick one thing that he was most excited about because there was 'so much to look forward to.'
The renovation process has been difficult for the school who were forced to stop a lot of activities as a result. With the project ending in October this year, the school is looking forward to a bigger and brighter future. The swimming pool is to undergo renovations, a new kitchen built as well as accommodation for staff members who have an early start and offices for educators as well. An elevator will also be put in, making the trips to the different floors that much easier. Mr Schulze, one of the educators, was also proud to announce that the buildings would be 'green buildings' and there would be a solar hot water system, highlighting the schools commitment to protecting the environment. Mr Myburg also reminded members of the public that the school was not getting bigger but that they were merely improving on the current infrastructure. It’s a special time for Pro Nobis School.

Sarel Cilliers’ sizzling sport spirit

2012-01-31T01:52:00.000-08:00

Friday, January 27 saw Sarel Cilliers' annual inter-house Athletics Day start off on high spirits. The learners and all staff members showed excellent sportsmanship and athletic ability.
Sarel Cilliers witnessed an outstanding moment in history when learner, Wenzile Thabede, completed the 400m sprint, while a truly inspired audience gave her a standing ovation. She is the tangible truth that limits do not exist and that Sarel Cilliers' learners never surrender! At the end of the day it's heart that counts, not size.
The learners were also entertained by the relay race between the teachers and prefects, where - surprisingly - the teachers taught our prefects a few tricks of the trade.
Sarel Cilliers would like to extend a huge thank-you to its learners and staff for their performance, participation and high disciplinary standards upheld at this event. The school looks forward to carrying through such high spirits for its entire academic and sporting year!

Sarel Cilliers Chess Tournament

Sarel Cilliers held a chess tournament on Saturday January 28. The children enjoyed every moment of the day. After a nail-biting seventh and eighth round Sikhona Magubane came first; Harold Siyaya second; Naledi Ncala (a new face in grade 8) came third.
Ntobeko Zondo came fourth, Malibongwe Mngoma came fifth and Mpilonhle Nxele was in sixth place.
We are looking forward to an exciting 2012.

A fruitful first term at DHS

2012-01-31T01:49:00.000-08:00

Fruit Festival

On Thursday, January 26 DHS held its traditional Fruit Festival and social. While many view it as simply an excuse to throw rotting fruit at each other, at DHS it is a tradition which helps draw all new learners and old together and unite them in a sticky mess of fruit and molasses.
The Festival helps learners (and a few brave staff members) to shed their constricting uniforms, literally, and have some healthy fun. If you wondered about the stained and dripping learners ambling home through town on Thursday the Fruit Festival was to blame (and because most parents refused to let their filthy children back in their cars). After the Festival, a social was held for the seniors and Gr 8s, which was a great success and enabled the Gr 8s to finally become a proper part of the school.

Rolbal
Drie leerders van Dundee Hoërskool is gekies om KwaZulu-Natal te verteenwoordig met rolbal, tydens die Suid-Afrikaanse o/19 toernooi. Mbali Zulu, Rodney Xaba en Fanele Ndebele het bewys dat hul bekwaam genoeg is, om die Dundee Hoërskool op provinsiale vlak te verteenwoordig. Die toernooi gaan plaasvind in Bloemfontein, gedurende die April-vakansie.
Endumeni Spele
Die Endumeni Spele, het die naweek 28 Januarie plaasgevind. Twee leerders van Dundee Hoërskool het gouemedaljes verowertydens hierdie byeenkoms. Denita Thompson en Thoko Mchunu was deel van die span wat die u/19-Netbal afdeling, gewen het.

DHS Athletics: Trophy Winners and Record
Breakers
Congratulations to all the learners who participated in the events of the DHS Athletics day, but a special mention to the achievers of the day:
Record breakers: Sithembele Mathe (1200m Walk Bu/17); Jonathan Benjamin (1200m Walk, Bu/15); Louise Currie (1200m Walk Gu/17); Sunelle von Molendorff (Discus and ShotPut Gu/17); Simoné Groenewald (100m Hurdles Gu/17).
Laurika Pansegrouw was aangewys as die Junior Victrix Ludorum, en N.Phungula as die Senior Victrix Ludorum. Die Junior Victor Ludorum was Jonathan Benjamin, en die Senior Victor Ludorum JA Viljoen. Die dogter wat op die dag die beste presteer het was S.Von Molendorff, en Liam Robson was die seun wat die beste presteer het. Die span wat aan die einde van die dag met die silwerware weggestap het, was die Sharks.

Molls and Farmers setting cricket standards

2012-01-31T01:40:00.001-08:00

The cricket action picked up steam this past week with four games taking place in the T20 Night League and one in the 30-over League.
On Tuesday Legends beat Farmers while on Wednesday Legends recorded their second victory, beating MYM.
The other Tuesday night game saw Molls take on Asia. Batting first Asia could only manage 125/9. Cameron Fogg took 2/17 for Molls. In reply Molls easily reached the total, scoring 127/4 in 14 overs.
They won by six wickets with six overs to spare. Wilfred Bierbaum starred with the bat scoring 43. He was well-supported by Joff Davies who scored 28 not out.
The fourth T20 game, which took place on Friday, saw Sunshine/Deans battle Farmers in a thrilling encounter.
Batting first Sunshine/Deans made 130 all out. Logan scored 30 and Vishal made 21. Aarie took 3/12 and Braam 2/18 as the bowlers really tightened the screws.
In reply Farmers tied the game on the very last ball of the innings. Micheal made 34 and Nicholas 33. O'niel took 1/22 and Shawn 2/32 for Sunshine/Deans.
In Saturday’s 30-over game, Farmers took on Molls in a game which featured six LBW decisions.
Farmers could only muster 119 all out. Woesie Bruyns made 20 and Pieter Johnson chipped in with 19. Francois took 3/19 and Wilfred took 3/34 as Molls reduced them to a very competitive score.
Sadly they could not reach it.
Brilliant bowling from Kyle who took 3/8 and Braam with 4/10 reduced Molls to 82 all out. Both teams were complimented for playing the game in very good and fair spirit. The six LBW decisions were a clear indication that both teams put fair play first. It has set the standards for future games in the competition.

Make over for central town

2012-01-24T01:02:00.000-08:00

Dundee's central business district is to undergo the biggest facelift in years.
Work will start in July on a R50 million project to re-surface Victoria and Willson Streets and Commercial Road.
Bart Maltman, Endumeni Municipality's Technical Services Manager, informed during a Ward 2 meeting that Mayor Thulani Mahaye and Speaker Mduli had assisted in securing Government funding for the much-needed work. The two-year programme is expected to start straight after the Karellandman Street upgrade is completed in June.
Mr Maltman said the road surface from the main traffic circle to Dundee Secondary School will be redone as will the paving and storm water drains. Willson Street will get a much-needed facelift from the Victoria Street intersection to past Commercial Road.
"Work will be done to improve the dangerous multi-junction intersection that merges Willson and Bulwer Streets and Commercial Road," he added.
The undertaking will do much to add to the aesthetics of the town and, hopefully, make it even more attractive to the many tourists who already flock here to visit the world famous battlefields, said Ward Councillor, Anthon Raubenheimer.
It was also said at the same meeting that a landscape gardener has been hired to ensure the new-look entrance to the town on Karellandman Street is beautified with the planting of indigenous trees, flowers and shrubs.
It was conceded that the continued shortage of bitumen in the country had hampered attempts to fix potholes - especially the crater at the Tatham Street traffic circle that was a result of a burst water pipe in October.
However, R2,2 million has been earmarked for road improvements with special mention of Glencoe, where the state of the road have left motorists 'rattling mad'.
"Biggar Street North is to be sealed and a weight restriction of 10 tons introduced following numerous complaints of heavy vehicles using this road," Mr Maltman said. Further good news on the 'rehabilitation of Dundee' is that the Civic Centre roof is to be repaired and a windowless floor added. The R3,4 million project has already started and public access to the building will be limited to the back entrance for safety. No parking will be allowed in front of the building during the construction phase. A temporary parking area is being made available behind the Civic Centre.
The existing roof slab has been leaking for some time now and Mr Maltman said that it was 'built in 1974 and has now reached the end of its life'.
The new floor will be a 'shell' which the Council hopes to rent out for offices - the tenant of which will be responsible for interior fittings.
This will be an additional source of income to the Council.
"This is a more practical option than replacing the slab, which would be a costly exercise," Mr Maltman concluded.

Family cries out for justice

2012-01-24T01:01:00.002-08:00

Police were on high alert at the Dannhauser Magistrates Court on Monday, fearing a possible confrontation between the families of murdered nurse, Sr Fiona Baaitjies and murder accused, Wentzel 'Oubaas' Witbooi.
Fiona was shot dead on the N11 on January 5. Her sister, Tessa, was also shot and wounded but managed to drive away with her two children.
Mr Witbooi’s first appearance in court was postponed pending a preliminary report from the psychiatrist at Madadeni Hospital.
The report recommended that Mr Witbooi be sent away to Fort Napier for further psychiatric evaluation.
The case was then postponed to February 8 for Mr Witbooi's bail hearing.
He will remain in custody at the Dundee prison cells. The brief appearance left no time for contact between the two families who maintained their distance.
Before the proceedings got underway, friends and family of Tessa and Fiona held a peaceful protest outside the court.
With candles and posters bearing the words 'You shall not murder. Exodus 20: 13' and 'Stop woman abuse,' the group called for justice to be served.
Honouring the memory of their fallen sister they cried out for bail to be denied, increasing their protests when Mr Witbooi's lawyer, Alan Kelly, entered the premises.

Haroon’s destiny in his own hands

2012-01-24T01:01:00.001-08:00

To be the best you’ve got to beat the best and Haroon Sader plans on doing just that.
Haroon has been invited to compete in the 2012 SA Championships of Magic in March.
The SA Championships of Magic is being held in Cape Town with the very best performers from around the African continent competing for the ultimate honour of representing Africa at the World Championships of Magic to be held in Blackpool, England, later this year.
Haroon will be pitted against some of the best magical talent that this continent has to offer, and is excited but nervous as well about the opportunity.
"It's my first big competition. I'm excited and nervous. I still have to decide what I am going to do. It will be a dream come true if I can win."
Together with his sister Raeesah, Haroon has been wowing crowds in and around Dundee with their performances.
After months of continued practice and refining his art, Haroon is ready to showcase his ability on a grand stage.
He is confident of impressing at the championships after judges ruled that he and Raeesah could perform their unique mind reading act.
Each performer is allowed to do three acts of three minutes each, making the choice a very important task.
Sadly, to make his dreams come true, Haroon needs to raise funds for registration and accommodation in Cape Town for him and Raeesah.
He is desperately looking for sponsors to assist him or anyone willing to make a donation towards this cause.
This is the chance of a lifetime for these talented performers who are set to make Dundee proud, but they need your help to do it.
For more information or if you would like to assist them, contact Haroon on 078 778 7686.

Millions for Isandlwana

2012-01-24T00:58:00.002-08:00

Millions of Rands are to be ploughed into Isandlwana to ensure the battles site not only commemorate the valour of the British soldiers but also the heroism of the Zulu warriors who defeated colonialism.
So said KZN Premier, Dr Zweli Mkhize, who was speaking at a drawn-out 133rd commemoration ceremony on Sunday.
The programme was delayed by over five hours and the highlight, a re-enactment featuring the Dundee Diehards and Zulu warriors, was delayed by over three hours to wait for the arrival of President Jacob Zuma.
He flew in on board an airforce helicopter surrounded by heavily armed security personnel.
Other dignitaries at the occasion included King Goodwill - whose speech was interrupted by the arrival of the Presidential helicopters, MECs and representatives of several Embassies.
A clutch of foreign and local tourists also squeezed into the huge marquees erected on the battle site.

Parting Shot

2012-01-24T00:58:00.001-08:00

He used his forefinger as a swivel stick..
Few things are more ritualistic than a South African braai. The nuances are as subtle as finding the right charcoal (you know, the one that lights without having to pour 20 litres of petrol over the coals) to the contents of wors which may vary from cat's eyes to goat skin.
Yet the appeal of standing around a braai and watching slabs of meat sizzle and spit is too overwhelming for most - especially over the summer.
A recent visitor, Brian, from the UK, recently had a taste of a braaivleis - Noord Natal style. For him it was a breakaway from pie and chips. Brian had to learn all about the rules of a New Year braai - do not start the fire too early or everyone will eat, drink and sleep long before the midnight chimes.
Once the fire is going, the clouds normally gather, the thunder rolls and it rains. Now, this is a bit of dampener - so you carry the entire braai gedoente to a new spot.
Once you have found a shelter, you have to rig up a light via an extension cord. Re-light the fire (fun this, hey?). Once you have just about smoked yourself out under the carport, the skies clear and the rain stops.
Haul everything out again. One fellow trips over the extension cord, drops the plate of raw chops but bravely holds on to his brandy and Coke.
OK, here we go and again. Fortunately, this time we do not have to re-light the fire. Brian finds this all terribly amusing.
A lemon is produced and the grid is cleaned and the flames burn off the grime and grease of the last braai. Hygiene is high on our agenda, Brian. Now comes the main event. The placing of the meat on the grid.
Everyone has their own style. There are the surgeons who line up their chops, steaks and wors as if it was a parade ground. The wors expertly curled by the lightest touch of the tongs.
Then there are the 'bone collectors' who slap and dash their meat around the grid and tend to intrude on other braaiers territory. This is frowned upon in professional braai circles.
One of the unwritten rules of braaing is that the women do the salads (spending most of their time in the kitchen, of course) while the manne fidget around the braai stand, shoving potatoes wrapped in silver foil deep into the embers.
The bone collector guy uses his forefinger or his 'biltong' knife as a swivel stick to mix his brandy and Coke. Often, the forefinger is bigger than the wors he is attempting to braai.
Then there is the whole thing of sprinkling mysterious spices over the meat. While Aromat is cancer-inducing and can remove rust from an old tractor, it is considered rude not to offer your braai partner a sprinkle should the bottle be in your hand.
The conversation revolves around local politics, the fact that the Municipality never picked up the refuse on the 27th - what's wrong with them? -, Graeme Smith's batting performance and the Lotto.
Then the self-appointed braai -meester, after carefully opening up a section of the meat on the braai for inspection, announces that everything is done. The meat is taken off; everyone marches inside where the ladies have conveniently laid out the salad and that awful Mayonnaise stuff that South Africans love to dribble over everything, including their cornflakes.
A rapid volley of explosions has Brian diving for the floor but we just sit around watching the fountain of fireworks rise into the New Year sky above Sibongile. "Hey this is just like the West Bank," says Brian fondly. And as the last piece of wors is devoured it was a case of - "let’s do this again next year."

Playing ball with the community

2012-01-24T00:57:00.001-08:00

Charlie’s Super Spar is continuing to play ball with the community.
Shortly before Christmas the local supermarket donated over 100 soccer balls to the disadvantaged in the community at a get-together at Endumeni Lower Primary.
Jane Adalis of Charlie's Super Spar said the business hopes to continue to play an active and meaningful role in socio-economic development with a special focus on health, hunger, crime prevention and, more specifically, AIDS-related projects.
Groceries were also given to the Sithole family of France after Mayor Mahaye brought their plight to the attention of Charlie's Super Spar.
The Mayor also thanked Dave Coleman of Spar for organising the donations and for their continued efforts to improve the life of all in the greater Endumeni area.

Atletiek lewe by Dundee Juniorskool

2012-01-24T00:56:00.000-08:00

Die jaarlikse atletiek Interhuisbyeenkoms het op Vrydag 20 Januarie plaasgevind.
Die afgelope twee jaar het toppresteerders die skool verlaat, maar die wat agtergebly het, het bewys hulle kan nogsteeds rekords verbeter.
Ses nuwe rekords is opgestel:
Chanté Groenewald (D0/13) - 200mH; Georgia Viljoen (D0/13) - Hoogspring; Johanette Wilken (D0/12) - Hoogspring en Verspring; Aidan de Lange (S0/12) - Werpskyf; Liezel Viljoen (D0/11) - Verspring.
Baie geluk ook aan almal wat deelgeneem het en julle beste gegee het. Ons is trots op julle!
Die byeenkoms is gewen deur die Groen-span (Talana), tweede die Rooi-span (Indumeni), derde die Geel-span (Tangeni) en vierde die Blou-span (Impati).
Die volgende byeenkomste sal binnekort aangekondig word en onthou die derde kwartaal word atletiek voortgesit. Sterkte!

Athletes remember battles

2012-01-24T00:33:00.000-08:00

Ladies race and junior category winner, Jenny McCullough who finished in 1:44:01.

The historic battles of Isandlwana and Rorke's Drift were remembered in slightly more friendlier ways with the hosting of the annual Memorial Half Marathon by the Biggarsberg Athletics Club.
But the weather was just as warm - according to the historians that is - as it was that day 133 years ago in 1879.
Bongani Msimango of Vryheid AC shrugged off the heat to come home first in a good time of 1 hour 14 minutes and 14 seconds.
First lady home was Jenny McCullough of RAC in 1:44:01. She was also the first junior runner home. Local walkers did very well with Warren Boggs completing the gruelling 21.1km in his handcycle!
Ken Vorster, BBAC Chairman, thanked all the sponsors who assisted with the staging of this annual event that brings so many athletes into town.
The water stations were also expertly manned (and woman-ed) by OGD, Sasko, Biggarsberg Primary School, Rorke's Drift Hotel, and Frik and Nikita. Biggarsberg Primary School was again judged the best water table for the third year in succession.
Well done Lynda and your team. "Lastly, but by no means least, a special thank-you to the Biggarsberg Organising Committee who pulled off yet another fantastic day and event despite a few minor hiccups," said Ken.

Tears of joy?

2012-01-17T03:09:00.002-08:00

There were just a few tears when the new Grade Ones took up their new seats in their classrooms last Wednesday... little Mohammud Ramjoo of Grade 1A at Dundee Primary needed a special touch from teacher, Anita Perumal, when he found himself ‘all alone’ in the classroom once all the concerned parents had been ushered out of the class by the busy staff!

Title deed hopes in tatters?

2012-01-17T03:09:00.001-08:00

"Will we ever get the title deeds to the government homes which we have rented for years?"
That is the cry of many residents in Dundee and Glencoe following the removal of Maggie Govender, as KZN MEC for Human Settlements. While Ms Govender was the MEC, her office promised to ensure that all the residents received the title deeds to their homes and not just the 104 who received theirs in April.
The original promise was that the remaining title deeds would be handed over in November 2011.
When approached for comment in October last year, Head of Department, Mrs Gabi Gumbi-Masilela said that the period earmarked for the hand over had not yet expired as yet and so the question was premature.
Sadly, when the MEC was removed from her post last year, so was Mrs Masilela and so the question was never answered.
Now residents are stuck with more questions than answers and don't know who to turn to.
Dawn de Beer is a Cornhill Street resident who has actively been campaigning for all to receive their title deeds.
Mrs de Beer said she is in talks with the Mayor Mahaye to try and resolve the issue.
Mrs de Beer added that she also approached Acting Senior Manager for the Department of Human Settlements, Robert Sibiya for assistance. When approached for more clarity on the issue, Mr Sibiya said that previously a service provider was in charge of registrations for the title deeds in the area but that the contract had since expired.
He added that his department was currently in talks with the municipality, urging them to appoint a local conveyancer who could continue the process.
He did warn though that they must decide whether the price is reasonable and not hire someone ‘who charges an exorbitant fee in an attempt to make money of the municipality.’

King, Premier at 1879

2012-01-17T03:08:00.003-08:00

The Dundee Diehards are expected to participate in a re-enactment to commemorate the 1879 battle of Isandlwana on Sunday, January 22.
While up to the time of going to press no details of times etc. had been released by the Premier’s Office, it is understood that both King Goodwill and Premier, Zweli Mkhize will be among the guests.
The Diehard group was only notified last Thursday and have had to scramble at short notice to get their team ‘battle ready’. But as team leader, Gavin Slater, remarked: "We are getting pretty good at these short notice things."

The custodian with an eye for the unusual

2012-01-17T03:08:00.001-08:00

Glencoe does have a museum. Those who think the keeping of all things historical is strictly a 'Dundee thing', need to visit Willie du Plessis's remarkable home on Grove Lane.
Not that Willie is the kind of person who goes around inviting people to his house to boast and show off a collection of historical knick-knacks - ranging from old-fashioned record players to a cash register dating back to 1914.
To list everything else in-between is impossible - but you could possibly find the Kruger Millions among the 'putt-putt bikes', the woodwork from Malawi, the clock from the Heidelberg train station and even maybe below his self-built wooden bar, where he and his mates watch sport on a Plasma flat screen.
Former Spoornet worker, Willie (50) says he decided to give it all up as he believed he could do better by himself.
Then he had to leave his comfortable railway house on Van Riebeck Street. He turned to Grove Lane which he says 'was home to the worst house in Glencoe… it was falling down and the khaki bos was two metres high'.
"I asked my wife Antoinette to come and live with me in this mess and see if we can do something with it."
After he left the railways he was uncertain what to do. He became a taxi driver - using a bakkie without a canopy. Leaving Glencoe at 5am, going to Ladysmith and Newcastle and sometimes coming back after midnight, taking people to school and work and back. He worked hard and built up a reputation.
After three months he had seen enough of a steering wheel.
But his ability to build, engineer and do almost everything else in the construction game saw Willie branch out into making a name for himself.
And slowly but surely he transformed the small former, rundown railway house into the gracious, extraordinary home that it now is.
It doubles as Willie's workshop. To go through the house is to go through a journey of discovery. Every item - be it on the wall or just a photo - appears to have a story.
The full size snooker table in a huge room at the back of the house has a special place in Willie's heart."My dad was a very keen snooker player in Ladysmith where we grew up. But he always had to go elsewhere to play, as we could of course never afford our own table. I vowed that one day I would have a home where there would be no need to go out and play snooker.
"Sadly my dad passed away but my mother lived long enough and stayed with us in this house to see this dream come true… and that is something that really pleases me."
Willie says he has never allowed the huge transforming of his own home to interfere with work for customers. "If there is work to be done, my house waits - my wife and sons know that."
He recently came to the rescue of Glencoe Spar when a delivery truck accidentally crashed into the store's plant room shortly before Christmas knocking out the shop's air conditioning and refrigeration.
The swimming pool - which his son began digging some years ago - is nearly completed.
"We will be swimming here definitely before the next World Cup," he laughs.
Willie is proud of his collection of coins and pocketknives just as he is proud of the massive kiaat table from Malawi with inlaid carvings of animals. He prides himself of being 'an expert bargainer' with the ability to get the best deal out of the most hardheaded person.
It is at this table where Willie sits and does his quotations while keeping an eye on the front gate. "It is difficult for me to say which is my favourite item… but I am very fond of this National Cash Register that I recently acquired from Driefontein," he said.
The wooden cash register dates back to 1914 and was made in Ohio, USA, but the keys are in pounds, shillings and pence.
"I have checked with the factory which is still in existence and after seeing a photograph of the register, they confirmed it is a rare piece."
He hopes to have a Jacuzzi set up 'soon'. Willie, who is full of surprises, says he and his family first lived in Hattingspruit. And he has a piece of the station signal to prove it!
He is known as a generous man in the community - albeit slightly eccentric - especially when it comes to his latest hairstyle.
Wife Antoinette, who works at Sarel Cilliers High, appears to take it all in her stride and is quite used to people traipsing through her home with Willie as the tour guide.
Surely yet another character who makes living here so much richer…

Eden Playschool mystery solved

2012-01-17T03:07:00.002-08:00

JOHANN HAMMAN

When Wimpie Wheeler came to the Courier with his tale of the missing playground equipment, he never imagined that he would generate a tidal wave of public reaction.
Early last Wednesday, with the Courier barely hitting the street, readers started calling him. He had already lodged a theft complaint with the police and when an acquaintance, who worked at the house in 82 Victoria Street phoned him, the proverbial fat hit the fire.
Information was alleged to Wimpie that the new owner at the premises previously occupied by Eden Play School may have had a hand in the illegal removal of the playground equipment. When the police took charge of the case, the missing equipment was almost immediately found, with a local businesswoman - whose name is known to the Courier - arrested and taken in for questioning.
The value of the goods was estimated at about R30 000, which meant that bail was to be issued by a magistrate. Taking personal circumstances of the accused into consideration, Wimpie withdrew the case with the decision of the state prosecutor pending.
It has now been reported that a dispute resolution process has been put in place, in lieu of criminal proceedings, with the accused having to pay a yet to be confirmed sum of R16 000 to Wimpie.
Wimpie expressed his sincere gratitude for the assistance he received in this matter, and wished to record his thanks to members of the community and the detectives who came to his aid.

Mixed Masala with the Token Indian

2012-01-17T03:07:00.001-08:00

The festive season has come and gone but for many the after-effects linger.
The most noticeable after-effect has to be the extra kilos many people have gained during the holidays.
Now automatically people will think that you pigged out and did nothing but eat during your holidays but many do have a very good excuse.
It's common practice to visit family on Christmas and New Year’s Day or to have someone come to visit you and that's where the problem arises. That problem is the hospitality factor.
Indians will go out of their way to ensure there's plenty of food on offer for their guests, even if their guests politely refuse to eat.
Most people choose after lunch to do visiting; it's a relaxing time of day to be out and you can always use the excuse that you just ate a few minutes ago.
Sadly this excuse does not work on Indian people; "No" is not an accepted answer. Neither is "I'm full" or "Maybe later."
Indian people love feeding and won't let anything stop them from doing so. Just try saying "No thanks, I already ate" and see how quickly a plate of food ends up in front of you. Some will even ask you what you ate and the exact time in an attempt to catch you out. Even if it's just something small or a bowl of snacks, they will make sure you have something to nibble on. This happens at functions also where you find that someone is piling food onto your plate despite your best protests.
This is also true when Indians offer you something to drink. "You want something to drink? Tea, coffee, some mineral, juice, water?" In the end you are forced to take something just to stop the barrage of offers.
It is considered a great insult to not eat at an Indian’s house when they offer and so not to appear rude, you eventually say yes.
Your hosts know this and in-between all your declines to eat they will slip in the ultimate guilt trip.
"There must be something wrong with our food" are some of the most powerful, guilt-inducing words they could use. Naturally you start to feel bad about saying no, you apologise for making them feel bad and then agree to eat.
Mission complete.
As a guest you have to learn when to accept their offers. Agree too early and you come across as only coming to visit for the free food. Agree too late and you risk upsetting your hosts.
It's a tough one to get the hang of but it does get better with practice.
So when you see someone has gained a few extra kilos during the holiday period, don't be alarmed. It could be they have not learnt as yet to refuse food from an Indian.

Rollicking for failing schools

2012-01-17T03:06:00.002-08:00

While the Umzinyathi Education Department is revelling in securing fourth place out of twelve Districts in the Province with an average Matric pass rate of just over 70%, much work has to be done at some schools where the pass rate was barely 50% or under.
Principals of all 513 schools in the vast District that stretches past Greytown were ordered to report to the Dundee High School hall on Friday afternoon, where they were addressed by Education Manager, Vincent Majola, and members of the KZN Parliament Education monitoring group that visited schools in the first week of the new term.
It was a clear indication that the Education Department 'means business'. Even Mayor Thulani Mahaye's school, Dundee Secondary, that registered a slight improvement in the Matric pass rate (52,2%) received a rollicking.
While Mr Mahaye fingered 'in-fighting among senior staff and even sabotage' as reasons for the poor results, even his ANC colleague, KK Nkosi - KZN Parliamentarian of the monitoring group - said the school should rise above that, and described the results as being ‘from hell'.
Sebenzakusakhanya High (Glencoe) with 47.25% also received shock-treatment from the monitoring group whose members include representatives of various political parties in the KZN Legislature.
While commitments to 'work hard, not to come late (both teachers and pupils)' have been made and the widely despised OBE system has been shelved, it appears much has to be done to ensure education in Umzinyathi remains on the up and up. Many teachers who chatted to the Courier at the get-together said they are happy that the format of teaching is now largely as it was - 'chalk and talk'.
This year's results will bare testimony to the commitments made on Friday.
Radley Keys, DA Parliamentarian who is also on the monitoring group, said the delegation monitored a selection of very rural schools as well as township and town schools. "Our visits uncovered very contradictory situations: In schools where the facilities are poor, the buildings are old and dilapidated, the resources limited and the services very short on delivery - there were some extraordinary cases where the principals and educators were able to produce amazing academic results. This showed us once more that it is not what we have, but how we manage and use what we have. It is due to the excellent leadership of the principals and their management teams that ensured good results come from their schools.
"A matter of grave concern to us in the DA and to our colleagues from other parties was the under-enrolment in some schools: one rural primary school had enrolled just over 150 learners while its capacity was more than 500, and the excessive over-enrolment in others: Ekucabangeni High in Nquthu has a capacity for 680 learners but have enrolled 1352. This latter case has resulted in class sizes exceeding 100 learners per class. A situation which makes teaching and learning very difficult if not impossible."
Mr Keys blamed these anomalies on short-sighted selfishness: "More problematic is the effect this uncontrolled enrolment will have on the learners' chances of getting a good education. With 100 learners squashed into a class the educators - the management and staff - are relegating these learners to a second-rate education. Conversely, this over-enrolment will put the principal into a higher salary bracket and the school being allocated additional Heads of Department, which means promotions for a select few.
"This raises the spectre that some schools are being used by unscrupulous educators in very senior positions to benefit themselves with little or no consideration given to the dire situation learners are being thrown into.
"The DA has called for an urgent resolution of the over-enrolment in our schools, and has made a call to the portfolio committee and department to introduce policies that will prevent over-enrolment which results in overcrowding."

DHS welcome new staff

2012-01-17T03:06:00.001-08:00

DHS warmly welcomes back all our well-rested staff and learners. DHS has a flock of new and scared Grade 8s, slowly finding their way around the school under the careful and patient guidance of the prefects. We hope that 2012 will be a year filled with hard work, success and happiness, and we wish all staff and learners all of the best for the first term. The year began with the DHS Top Ten based on the term 4 results for 2011. Congratulations to all the learners who achieved this high level of academic excellence. As it is a new year, we encourage every learner to work hard and strive for this achievement. The following learners represent the top 3 for each grade at the end of 2011:
Gr 8: Atiyyah Ameen 96%, Mfolozi Dlamini 95% and Jehan Ebrahim 94%.
Gr 9: Nibha Ramkelawan 90%, Nandi Khumalo 89% and Luleka Mashazi 88%.
Gr 10: Catherine Willis-Smith 91%, Mlondi Shoba 83% and Natasha Schroeder 82%.
Gr 11: Jan-Albert Viljoen 88%, Zanrich van Rensburg 87% and Senta Bunge 87%.
12 learners bravely participated in the AMESA Maths Challenge during October 2011. Congratulations to all the learners who took part! The following certificates were awarded:
Senior: Senta Bunge - Silver; Zanrich van Rensburg - Bronze.
Junior: Atiyyah Ameen - Silver; Gerald Bunge - Silver; Jehan Ebrahim - Bronze; Sadiyah Malek - Bronze; Mfolozi Dlamini - Bronze.
Participation Certificates: Nabeela Khan, Siphphelo Zulu, Siqalala Shandu, Wandile Khumalo and Nqobile Khumalo. On Friday, January 20, DHS will have its Inter-house Athletics day. Learners are to come to school in their sports clothes and be prepared for a hot and sports-filled day in the sun. Please remember to bring your LO forms and to cheer each other on and have fun!

Defeating Chelmsford

2012-01-17T03:05:00.001-08:00

There were plenty of Dundee and Glencoe swimmers at the Chelmsford Challenge with Anel Raubenheimer and Erike Prinsloo (above) adding to the glamour of the occasion

Family shooting stuns town

2012-01-11T05:25:00.001-08:00

Two families were left stunned when a man shot and killed his sister-in-law and then shot his estranged wife near Ballengeich on the N11 last Thursday.
A police manhunt was launched for the Dundee man, Wentzel ‘Oubaas’ Witbooi, who had driven away from the scene in a Mercedes Benz.
Members of the Dog Units from Newcastle and Glencoe joined the search along with police from nearby stations as they feared there could be more shootings. However, Mr Witbooi later left the vehicle at a house in Dannhauser before booking himself into a rehabilitation clinic near Durnacol where he was arrested by police on Friday.
The homeowner where the vehicle was left had also called the police as he had no idea ‘who Mr Witbooi was or why the car had been left at his house’.
The two women, Tessa Witbooi (30) and her sister, Fiona Baaitjies - both nurses at the Newcastle Mediclinic, had been driving back to Newcastle after collecting Tessa's two children - aged seven and eight - from the children’s grandparents’, Mr and Mrs Witbooi’s Dundee home where they had spent the holidays.
Earlier in the day, Mr Witbooi (40) had been in court in Newcastle apparently over a hearing related to the children, which Tessa had also attended.
However, it is believed Tessa and her sister had then left for Dundee to collect the children.
While driving back to Dundee, it is suspected that Mr Witbooi had spotted their Mazda vehicle and stopped them at the turn-off to Siltech in Ballengeich. Other reports said he had arranged to meet the women on the N11.
It is there where he allegedly shot Fiona several times before shooting Tessa who had attempted to drive away. The two children who were in the car later alerted their family in Dundee regarding the shooting. It was a message that would forever change the lives of two families.
Unconfirmed reports said that a passing ambulance crew stopped to render assistance. Both women were rushed to hospital in Newcastle where Fiona died of multiple gunshot wounds. Tessa was first admitted to ICU for treatment but was later transferred to the surgical ward.
The two children are in a place of safety in Newcastle.The well-known Witbooi family of Dundee told the Courier they are in a state of shock and wish to co-operate with the police investigation.
When it emerged that Mr Witbooi had booked himself into the clinic they said they wanted to ensure that he hand himself over to the police.
However, police from Dannhauser and Newcastle arrested him at the clinic and he was later detained at the Newcastle police cells.
It is unclear if Mr Witbooi walked or hitched a lift to the clinic, which is between Dannhauser and Durnacol. It is understood that Mr Witbooi did not use his own licensed firearm in the shooting.
Tributes have poured in for Fiona who also had two children.
It is also understood that Tessa had left Dundee in June last year to take up residence in Newcastle after she and Mr Witbooi had become estranged.Callers to the Courier commented that the shooting 'was a desperate tragedy for the area'. Immediate concerns were for Tessa and Fiona's children. Mr Witbooi appeared in the Dannhauser Magistrate's Court on Monday in connection with the murder of Fiona and the attempted murder of Tessa.Alan Kelly of Newcastle appeared as counsel for the accused.
Investigating officer, Detective Quinton van der Hoogen of the Newcastle Serious and Violent Crime Unit, confirmed that the case had been remanded to later in the month pending a preliminary report from a psychiatrist at Madadeni Hospital.
Mr Witbooi is currently detained in the Newcastle Police Cells. Funeral arrangements for Fiona were not immediately available at the time of going to press.

Endumeni - on top of the world!

2012-01-11T05:21:00.001-08:00

Appearing every day all over the "Magic Province" of KwaZulu-Natal are the products of one of the town's premier businesses, Orange Grove Dairy. They're even found deep into Gauteng, so it's no surprise that another Orange Grove "product", its well-known logo (on a flag) has appeared on top of Africa.
Dundee man, Gareth Burge, who now works in Kampala, Uganda, summitted Kilimanjaro in December and wanted something special from his home town with him at the top. So there he was, wheezing in the thin air, holding up the pride of Endumeni!

Health hazard goes on unhalted

2012-01-11T05:20:00.000-08:00

The sale of food items from the back of a half burnt-down shop in Dannhauser has raised concerns among many residents.
After the fire gutted most of the building recently, the store was forced to close, but owners still sold goods via the back entrance.
Fearing that the food items could be covered in soot and smoke before being sold to the public, one resident was prompted to contact the Courier for assistance.
His concern was that many residents could fall ill after consuming the items and asked that a health inspector attend to the matter.
After contacting the Amajuba District Health Department, the Courier was transferred to a health inspector.
However, seconds after learning that the call had come from a newspaper, the inspector said that he "wasn't a health inspector but a work inspector," and that we would have to contact a Mr Phillip Baytop for comment.
Upon phoning the Department again, we were informed that there was no such person working there.
The 'work inspector' was then contacted but could not explain why there was no record of a Mr Baytop working there.
He then suggested we speak to a Mr Bhekani Mhlungu, who would be able to assist us. Sadly no one at the Department had heard of Mr Mhlungu either.
The shop in question has re-opened its doors to the public despite not yet being properly repaired,
The burnt sections have been closed off from public access but there are still raised eyebrows over the hygiene levels.

Paradise lost for Eden School

2012-01-11T05:19:00.002-08:00

The Eden Play School, owned and run by Nickey Venter and Wimpie Wheeler, previously situated in 82 Victoria Street, is in serious need of new premises to rent.
The school has over a hundred children that are looking for a new home.
That was not the only problem the New Year heralded for Wimpy and Nickey. Last week Wimpie Wheeler discovered that somebody had removed all their playground equipment (valued at about R30 000).
"It would take six men to lift and move that slide," he fumed.
The school is missing a double swing, four jungle gyms and a slide. Wimpie himself had cemented in this equipment, but that clearly did not stop thieves from removing it.
The new owners, Adel's Hair and Beauty Salon, also have no idea as to how the equipment was removed or who was behind the apparent theft.
A case of theft had been registered, and is still being investigated. Wimpie has asked members of the public who know anything about the theft to contact him. Anonymity will be guaranteed. His cell phone number is 082 228 3004.
Reward offered for
information on missing playground equipment

Sarel Cilliers’ Sphesihle scores eight As

2012-01-11T05:19:00.001-08:00

Sarel Cilliers High School's Sphesihle Mthembu with eight distinctions was one of the top Matriculants in KZN.
Sphesihle, who is originally from Bergville, scored A symbols in English, Afrikaans, Maths, Life Orientation, Accounting, Life Sciences, Maths 3 and Physical Science.
Principal, Dr Tinus Neethling, described the 2011 Matric results - which saw a 93,47% pass rate - as the best in his 30 years at the school.
Six of the 93 candidates who wrote the exams failed.
Other Sarel Cilliers High matriculants who did well in the finals included Mohammed Peer with 5 As, 2 Bs and 1 D, Wayne Botha with 5 A symbols, and Nicole Collett, who inspite of illness still managed to come away with 5 As.

Another century for Dannhauser Secondary but some schools fail

2012-01-11T05:18:00.004-08:00

Dannhauser Secondary has done it once again, scoring another 100% pass rate for the second year running.
With 32 Bachelors Passes, 12 Diplomas and 1 H pass, the school achieved another impressive 100%. Acting Deputy Principal, Mr Moosa, praised the school for their great achievement and vowed that they would work hard to continue producing good results. Some students did not want to wait for newspapers to arrive at shops during business hours - they were very hungry for their results and so decided to walk to Jeff’s Service Station in the early hours to wait for the newspaper deliveries so they could check for their names. Some had been waiting from as early as 2am for the delivery at 4:30am. Local businessman, Thami Khumalo, who collected the newspapers in Newcastle, joyously delivered them to Jeff’s Service Station and to the waiting matriculant-hopefuls. There was joy and excitement among the students, who could be seen and heard singing and dancing claiming that "this is the beginning of our lives!"

DHS matrics celebrate another 100% pass rate

2012-01-11T05:18:00.003-08:00

RUDI HASchKE, DUNDEE HIGH SCHOOL PRINCIPAL

Congratulations to all the 2011 matrics of Dundee High. You have once again done your school proud by achieving a 100% pass rate. You accepted the challenge and have endorsed our vision of "Educational Excellence".
Ten Dundee High learners obtained an average over 80%. Two of our learners were among the Top 5 achievers of the Umzinyathi district.
Tarryn Meyer, our Dux of 2011, was placed third, and she had distinctions for ENGHL, AFRFA, LIFE, MLIT, CATN, GEOG and TRSM. Fathima Rawat with distinctions for ENGHL, AFRFA, LIFE, BSTD, ACCN, and ECON was fifth in the district. In die skool se derde plek was René Raubenheimer met ses onderskydings: AFRHL, ENGFA, LIFE, PHSC, ACCN en ECON. They were followed by Deveshnie Govender (5As), Trishka Rajkumar (4As) Heinrich Meyer (5As), Muhammed Chenia (4As) Claudia Raffenberg (4As), Jeanri Boshoff (5As) and Aloise Boshoff (4As). Well done to all of you, we are proud of you.
A further 41 learners obtained an average above 70% and 51 more an average above 60%. In total 82% of our matric class qualified for admission to a bachelor degree at university (matric exemption).
Of the 933 exams that were written, the class of 2011 obtained 174 subject distinctions. This means that 18% of all marks obtained were above 80%. Of the 21 subjects offered at Dundee High 18 had subject averages above 60%. Subjects where more than 10 distinctions were obtained were LIFE, ZULFA, AFRFA, BSTD, ENGHL and MLIT.
Results such as these could only be achieved by hard work, not only by the learners but also by the dedicated educators of DHS. Thank you and congratulations to all of you.

Lathans spread the love in Africa

2012-01-11T05:18:00.001-08:00

Spreading the love and spirit of humanity for the past 13 years, Teddy and Clara Lathan have no regrets about leaving the USA.
In 1998 the Lathans left America for Zimbabwe - where they hoped to make a positive difference in the lives of others.
As followers of the Bahayi faith - who believe in 'oneness of spirit' - they felt it was a calling; a chance for them to help their fellow man.
During their 10 years in Zimbabwe they made frequent trips to South Africa looking for a small town where they could be a part of the community.
Life was starting to get more difficult in Zimbabwe and the Lathans knew that they had to get out. In 2008 they made the move to Dundee and despite moving to Glencoe at one stage, they returned to the town they fell in love with. Mrs Lathan can be best described as a mixed bag of talent.
From working in the US postal service, to real estate. a stock broker, hospital administration and even a stint in human relations, there is nothing she hasn't tried.
She even lent her angelic voice to the Talana Sounds of Music evening in the beginning of December.
Her husband Teddy is a retired US navy Chief, an extremely stressful but important job. Both are glad to be in a small town, where they can assist the community.
From making numerous crafts to offering classes in pottery-making and sewing, Clara has always tried to empower the people around her.
Sadly though, she is disappointed with the level of work of some of the people here as opposed to those in Zimbabwe.

Death threats

Despite the numerous cases of fraud and death threats they received in Zimbabwe, if there's one thing they had praise for, it was the work ethic and business-mindedness of the people. Their house has a lot of crafts that they brought over from Zimbabwe. They still have a lot of prized possessions there that they want to bring over but are waiting for things to simmer down.
While having no plans to return to the USA, they do have dreams of bringing their children out here for a visit.
"We want our children to see Africa. There is a stereotype in the USA that Africa is one big jungle with a native in a loincloth with a spear behind a tree."
Having proved that theory wrong already, the Lathans have no regrets about the decisions they have made. "Life is a journey, an experience. If we sit around doing nothing then we are not contributing to change. Be a part of the solution, not the problem." Living in Dundee is another reason they don't have any regrets.
"We love Dundee. People are so loving and accepting and are always there to offer a hand.
" It is a small town with a big heart and lots of love."
Always ready to help their fellow man and with a great love for community involvement, you are guaranteed to see more of the Lathans in the years to come.

Nuwejaarsjakkalsies - gaan maak daai lysie, man…

2012-01-11T05:17:00.001-08:00

Die oujaar het gekom, en hy het sy normale kwota klein jakkalsies hierdie tyd van die jaar saamgebring.
Ons noem dit Nuwejaarsvoornemens. Dis 'n ding wat 'n manier het om elke jaar te voorskyn te kom, en soos klein jakkalsies in die wingerd, bring dit sy eie nalatenskap mee.
Ons voornemens hou gewoonlik so 'n week, en dan begin die jakkalsies die wingerd verniel. Jy het plegtig op Oujaarsaand belowe jy gaan ophou rook. Jy het daai Nuwejaarsbabelas kwalik oorleef, maar dan smaak 'n sigaret te sleg, in elkgeval, so jy het maar by die sterk swart koffie gebly. 'n Paar dae later is jy weer orraait, maar dan pak die rooklus jou van voor af beet dat die jakkalsie voor jou sy stert in blywe afwagting staan en swaai. Daai ene werk gewoonlik nie…
Te veel eet. Jip, jy het plegtig belowe jy gaan minder skaapvleis eet, en gaan ook begin draf. Jy weeg 110 kilogram, en kan net op jou rug lê en slaap, want jou swaarlyf staan seergeslaap elke oggend op. Jy kan nie jou skoene vasmaak sonder om te gaan sit nie, en jy kom nie sonder stoei uit jou vrou se kar geklim nie. Die jaar is al nege dae oud, en jy het reeds twee groot braaie agter die rug, en het nie 'n tree gedraf nie. Daai jakkalsie staan ook breëbors by sy maatjie vir jou en giggel.
Ander klein jakkalsies van die nuwe jar is daai paint job wat al maande lê en wag dat jy hom klaar maak. Elke keer as jou vrou by die halfgeverfde ding verbyloop, trek haar lippies so dun, en jy koes hier in jou geestesoog en belowe jouself, môre, net môre maak ek daai jop klaar.
En al daai ander jakkalsies wat van die vorige nuwejaar lê en wag…? Die vrou se vuil kar? Hoeveel keer het jy al belowe jy gaan hom was…? Sommer nóú….?
Daai inkopielys. Demmit. 'n Ander klein jakkalsie is lysies maak. Jy word Pick ‘n Pay toe gestuur om 'n bottle Coke, melk, 'n brood, twee dosyn eiers en 'n tjoklit te gaan koop.
"Sal jy alles onthou?" vra sy.
"Ja, ja…..lyk ek vir jou dom….?"
As jy by Pick ‘n Pay instap, rak jy aan die gesels met 'n buddie van jou. En nog een. En nog een. Orraait, nou moet ons gou die goete koop. Kry 'n waentjie…..eh…en daar het jy nie meer 'n cooking clue wat jy moet kry nie….iets vanne brood….?
Jy sien 'n lekker bottel rooiwyn, koop 'n pak tjips en 'n nuwe koerant, en dan SMS jy die vou dat die jogurt uitverkoop is. Jy betaal en gaan huistoe.
Sy pak die sak op die kombuistafel uit. Dun lippies…..gaan skryf die bleddie ou lysie, toe…? Jy gaan nie meer kan huishou met al daai jakkalse onner jou voete nie.
Onthou, toe die donkiekarretjie met sy drywer by die boer verbykom daar innie Noordkaap in, en plek vra om oor die hoë pad te kom, toe beduie die boer hom na die eerste culvert onder die pad deur.
Daargekom, pas die donkies nie innie culvert innie. Die drywer begin met 'n hamer en 'n beitel, en hy kap vier spoortjies innie konkreit uit vir elke oor. Die boer vra hom hoekom hy nie liewer sand onder die donkies se pote uitgrawe nie.
"Man, dis hulle ore wat te lank is, nie hulle pote nie," kom die verontwaardigde antwoord terug. Eish. Gaan maak daai lysie, man…..

Walter’s pricey golf weekend

2012-01-11T05:16:00.000-08:00

Wishing all our members and friends a blessed 2012.
Well, it's back to the grindstone and hopefully things shall return to normal - for some, it'll be a bit tougher for others, but none the less - Welcome 2012!
Congratulations to our "matric parent" members on passing and welcome home to Trevor Bradbury!
Walter du Plessis had a very expensive weekend for scoring the perfect fluke on No 16 - congratulations Walter!
Even though many of our members travelled away for the festive season, we have had a very busy month on the golf course!
594 rounds of golf were played by locals (members), 56 affiliated members and 209 non-affiliated players totalling 859 rounds of golf from Friday, December 16 to Sunday, January 8 (24 days)!
Upcoming Fixtures : Saturday, January 14 - Club Competition Combined Stableford; Saturday, January 21 - Club Competition 4BBB; Saturday, January 28 - Battery Centre Sponsored Golf Day; Monthly Mug and Mug of Mugs will be played on Saturday, February 4.
Good luck to those members participating in the Chelmsford Challenge on Saturday! Happy golfing!
The Club was also happy to host Colin Moodie and his son, John. Colin was Club Captain in 1969 and now lives on the South Coast.

Station in a state of collapse

2011-12-20T03:44:00.002-08:00

Allegations of sluggish and inattentive responses to emergencies against the Dannhauser police are denting the image of what was once described as the best police station in the area.
And, when you spot a police official walking around the streets in the area, it's not for leisure but rather that they are forced to patrol on foot due to lack of available state vehicles.
The shortage of vehicles is thwarting the ability of police members to effectively conduct their duties and has resulted in the police station being reduced to a shadow of it’s former glory. Even the station management has received a lashing from dissatisfied community members who have labeled the police as sloppy.
The station came under the spotlight when Vani Singh reported a case. "I phoned for emergency police intervention and three police officers responded after 45 minutes.
Singh said the police told her the delay was due to the fact that the two available vehicles were attending to other cases.
"They said they had to flag the vehicle back to the station. It was ridiculous that a station could serve the whole of Dannhauser with only two vehicles."
It was later established that six vehicles have been boarded for replacement while the remaining two are in a poor and deteriorating state and have clocked mileage of over 200 000km. Dannhauser police spokesman, Mfanafuthi Nyembe, confirmed that the station has a shortage of vehicles. "Our duty is to serve the community and having proper logistics, including enough vehicles to conduct our service, is our priority. "We are treating the matter with urgency and even the station's Major, B Ntanda, has communicated with the provincial fleet management for intervention."
Meanwhile, a press release issued in October by the National Minister of Police, Nathi Mthethwa's office, stressed the need for police officers to efficiently utilise their tools of trade effectively, including police vehicles, in the fight against crime.
In that statement, the minister stressed, "The most common issue raised by communities is the perceived lack of speedy response by police when called to report to crime callouts. In some instances this is as a result of the lack of resources, including vehicles. We cannot provide communities with excuses when it comes to fighting crime, it is our conviction and our duty to serve and we have to do it smarter and faster.
"We have been emphasising to the police management the aspect of equitable distribution of resources, including vehicles, but more importantly to ensure that these are used to serve communities."
Minister Mthethwa added that the SAPS was in the process of compiling issuing criteria, to determine the number of vehicles per members (optimal). He said the department ‘was also in a process to develop allocation criteria to address the type of vehicle to be allocated to specific geographical areas.’

Community rallies round after tragic drowing

2011-12-20T03:44:00.001-08:00

While a young family struggled to come to terms with the tragic loss of their toddler daughter who drowned in a fishpond at their home, her father had a word of warning for parents.
Willem Myburgh told the Courier that he and his wife, Naidene's, prayers are that for all parents to always keep an eye on, especially, their younger children.
Little Zoey died when she appeared to have fallen into the fishpond at their home on Oldacre Place on Saturday afternoon.
Willem said she had been playing outside at the time. 'It was very hot and we went indoors just to cool off… I did not hear her for sometime and when I went outside I found her in the pool."
A trained medic, Willem said he expected the worst. "We rushed her to hospital and what a wonderful job the doctors and staff did as they did all they could to revive our Zoey.
"Please parents - watch your kids when they play - do not expect them to know what to do."
Zoey was an entry in the Courier's recent baby competition in the 12-18 months category.
Naidene said the people of Dundee and Glencoe have been wonderful. "While we are fairly new to town people whom we do not even know have sent messages, come around to the house and even brought cooldrinks here - what a wonderful, caring community. May God bless you all."
Willem who runs TUH Construction recently completed work on the fencing around the new-look Show-grounds.
As a way of giving something back, Willem - always one for ideas - is to put up a new gate at the Colley Street homes. More about this next year and as Willem and Naidene said: "It will be away of remembering a child who God took because she was too perfect for this world."

Mayors living in fear?

2011-12-20T03:43:00.000-08:00

Nquthu's Mayor and Municipal officials feel less threatened compared to all Municipalities in the area.
However, their colleagues at the Umzinyathi District Municipality must have some kind of persecution complex…. that's what can be gleaned from a report from the KZN Department of Co-Operative Governance and Traditional Affairs.
Responding to questions from Radley Keys, local DA member of the Provincial Parliament, MEC Nomsa Dube, reported that save for municipal recruitment policies and standard labour relations, the employment of security personnel is not specifically regulated by legislation.
"The provision of security services may be provided for in the form of employment of staff as contained on an approved structure or the services may be procured in terms of supply chain management services."
The MEC gave a breakdown on security personnel employed to protect elected Councillors and/or officials:
Umzinyathi District Municipality: Mayor James Mthethwa has four bodyguards, the Deputy Mayor three, the Speaker one, former Mayor M Yengwa two (he now serves on the Executive Committee of the Council) and even the Municipal Manager, S Dubazane, has one bodyguard.
"The municipality resolved on June 23 to review the organogram to provide for these positions in line with the municipal budget."
One of the Mayoral bodyguards was charged some months ago with assault after pushing a man through a shop window following a disagreement over parking. The bodyguard has since been back on duty although he still may face criminal charges.
Endumeni's Mayor Thulani Mahaye has one bodyguard contractually employed until the end of the Mayor's term of office. His home is also guarded by a security service-provider on a tendered contract. Mayor Mahaye also has an allocated driver on a contractual basis. A driver/bodyguard is also allocated to Deputy Mayor Mkhize on the same basis as the Mayor's. The posts are not provided for on the organogram and the services are procured based on the security needs of the Mayor and Deputy.
The municipal budget allows for such services.
Nquthu: No security services are provided for any office-bearer by the municipality but the Mayor does have a driver.
Msinga: Only the Mayor has security personnel and the appointments are provided for in the staff establishment.
Umvoti: Security for the Mayor, Deputy Mayor and Speaker are provided for on the Municipal organogram. Security staff has been employed on a fixed-term contract basis. Mayor Mavundla has three staff members and protection services/traffic officer providing security in transit. The Deputy Mayor has one security guard and a driver while the Speaker has one security guard/driver.

One man’s journey to save a precious life

2011-12-20T03:42:00.002-08:00

Sometimes in life we receive an eye-opener, a moment that makes us re-evaluate our lives and want to give back.
For ex-Dundonian, Darrel Jennings, that moment was hearing the story of Reef Carneson.
Diagnosed with acute lymphoblastic leukemia (ALL), a fast-growing cancer of the white blood cells, at just 5-months-old, Reef underwent intensive chemotherapy but a month after he went into renal failure and had to be hospitalised for dialysis. After a painstaking search for a compatible bone marrow donor, none in South Africa could be found. Thankfully a donor was found in Germany and after the transplant the family expected the worst to be over. Sadly it was yet to come.
Shortly after the transplant, Reef developed Graft versus Host Disease, a complication that can occur after a stem cell or bone marrow transplant in which the newly transplanted material attacks the transplant recipient's body. This can be fatal but miraculously Reef survived.
Proving to be a real fighter with supportive parents there is still hope for Reef with doctors in the USA able to treat him but at a staggering cost.
And so begun the mammoth task of raising the funds for Reef, a task that had every single person who heard Reef’s story helping in some way or another.
Darrel, who now lives in Thabazimbi, then made it his mission to help this brave little warrior by turning his new found passion, cycling, into a fund-raising initiative. Describing himself as a 'social drinker' who could be found in the pub every weekend, Darrel never thought of his drinking as a problem until it started affecting his life.
"Not only was my health in jeopardy because of the drinking but I had ballooned to a point where I weighed in at 171.3kgs."
It also affected his relationship with his wife and children, something he knew he had to fix before it was too late.
So on 3 January 2011, Darrel made the decision to stop drinking. Knowing that it would be a long road ahead he consulted with a doctor and had implants put in.
These implants work by making the individual very sick should they consume alcohol. Knowing that the implants alone wouldn't be enough, Darrel made the conscientious decision to go to a gym and get serious about losing weight.

Starting out slowly

Starting out slowly by cycling in the gym, Darrel soon took to the road, doing 5km to 10km until he made his way up, completing his first 80km ride. Watching the kilos waste away was rewarding and inspired Darrel to push himself further and seek a greater challenge.
He started doing mountain bike as well as road races and before long made a special trip from Thabazimbi to Parys (384km) in one week.
After arriving home, Darrel immediately started planning more trips.
He planned one trip from Parys to Durban and one from Thabazimbi to Durban. It was amid all his planning that his eye-opening moment arrived; it was hearing the story of Baby Reef.
"I remember the first e-mail I received about Baby Reef, I think I actually deleted it but the e-mails just kept on coming. If it wasn't e-mails then I would hear about Baby Reef on the radio.
"On Facebook my friends were pleading with me to donate R10 towards Baby Reef via SMS." Finally giving in to the signs, Darrel read the story and was immediately touched.
He saw Baby Reef as an inspiration, a chance to make up for his past mistakes. Darrel then found a way to do his bit to help the little hero and continue with his trips as planned. And so '1000kms for Baby Reef' was formed.
On January 27, 2012, Darrel will leave Thabazimbi, travelling 1000km to Durban, raising funds for Reef along the way. How the sponsorship works is quite simple. A person pledges an amount they are willing to donate per km that Darrel travels. If you pledge 10c and Darrel travels 1000km then you donate R100 to the fund.
During his journey, Darrel will stopping over in Dundee on February 5. He will spend two nights here and leave on February 7. Even though the 17-day journey promises to be grueling and tough, Darrel knows it's nothing compared to what Reef goes through daily.
It's that knowledge that is the driving force behind '1000kms for Baby Reef'.

New ANC members spread message of unity

2011-12-20T03:42:00.001-08:00

Making their members become more actively involved and reaching out to the community - that's what the ANC is striving for.
At a meeting held at the Anglican Church recently, members of the organisation met to elect a health sub-committee. "There is no use for the ANC to have health policies when its members are not actively engaged in it," said Mzwakhe Sithebe, regional chairperson. He said that the organisation was planning to have in the future separate sub-committees for education, health, criminal justice, rural development, social transformation and party building. It would include members from all the branches also. Mr Sithebe added that the ANC needed to make use of its large support base and create healthy volunteers. These volunteers are tasked with going out into the communities and finding out what are the needs of the people. At the next sub-committee meeting these volunteers would report back on the needs of the people and the party would be able to provide proper service delivery. He encouraged members of the party to become active volunteers and go into the heart of the communities to benefit the people.

Medical practitioners

Together with medical practitioners they aim to speak to the people and attend to their needs. While the sub-committee was not elected at the meeting, another meeting has been scheduled for January 15. At this meeting members of the ANC will meet with medical practitioners to discuss various matters before electing the committee. "If we understand how the systems works it will be easier to cater for people’s needs," Mr Sithebe said.
Setting up the structures is not enough. Mr Sithebe promised that they would play an oversight role checking that each department was providing proper service-delivery and creating job opportunities. He also promised that would be no nepotism in terms of employment.
The party is also looking forward to the matric results to determine which are the under-performing schools and identify the problems that are stopping them from doing better. By implementing these programmes in January Mr Sithebe is hoping there will be more hands-on members in the ANC by the time the centenary celebrations start in Mangaung.
The ANC also welcomed new members who recently joined the organisation. Likening it to one big church, one of the members said that the ANC accepted people of all races.
He said that they were there for the benefit of the people and not self-enrichment.

Bloedrivier: 'n nuwe atmosfeer

2011-12-20T03:40:00.002-08:00

Legendary South African news photographer, Dr Peter Magubane (who is now 80), was also at Blood River on Friday. He was capturing images for his new book on Afrikaner culture, due out in 2012. He was seen with colleague, David Meyer and Swedish author, Kajsa Norman, who is also in the country to write about the history of the Afrikaner.

johann hamman

Die jaarlikse herdenking van die Gelofte en die Slag van Bloedrivier op 16 Desember het hierdie jaar veel meer mense as verlede jaar gelok. Die weer het goed saamgespeel, gesien in die lig van die feit dat verlede jaar se verrigtinge sodanig uitgereën het dat die perdekommando se vlagparade nie plaasgevind het nie. Hierdie jaar het egter 'n herlewing getoon, en ongeveer 3000 mense het opgedaag vir die verrigtinge. Die perdekommando het soos gewoonlik die vlagparade gedoen, waar verskeie historiese vlae vertoon was.
Morgan Gregory van die feeskomitee het die ruiters onder hande geneem hierdie jaar. Die perde het weer die kollig gesteel soos in die verlede, en daar is weer 'n krans gelê te herdenking van al die kommandoperde en vrouens en kinders wat in 1838 in die jaar van bloed gesterf het.
Na die diens en die herbevestiging van die Gelofte in die laer deur Ds. Boeta Erasmus van Standerton het die verrigtinge verskuif na die saal, waar die kerkdiens gehou was.
Die nuwe bestuurspaar van die Bloedriviererfenisterrein, Dons en Eurika Grobler het hulle skitterend van hulle taak gekwyt. Die terrein het 'n nuwe atmosfeer en 'n baie meer toeganklike en vroliker winkel as vroeër.
Die bekende fotograaf, Peter Magubane, het ook besoek afgelê by die terrein, waar hy besig is om 'n fotobeeld oor die Afrikaner saam te stel. Geen van die soortgelyke voorvalle in die verlede is aangemeld of waargeneem nie.

..... A Christmas tale of coal trucks, a few wisemen but no silence

2011-12-20T03:40:00.001-08:00

… And then a great cold befell the land. It came in from the Deep South (no, not Wasbank, probably closer to the Glencoe siding) and it blew over Indumeni Mountain (as opposed to Endumeni - that's the municipal thingy) and it brought with it great tidings of joy.
And it was while Councillors were washing their brand new 4x4s (they do not do silver, gold and myrrh) by night that a messenger came down from Mpati Mountain in a blaze of glory - he was grasping an invoice from the ratepayers - a large one at that.
And then this became a far from Silent Night as the messenger growled 'Away with mangy service-delivery'.
And dripping with soapsuds and wiping his brow, one Councillor turned to the other and said, "Hark! Is that FC Bester and his far-from-merry men - but I thought they were supposed to come with joy to this world - not fear and loathing?"
"Oh little town of Endumeni demands so many things from you angels… we want jobs aplenty, roads black and tarred, refuse picked up in Glencoe, coal-laden trucks to be pulled over in Glencoe, roses planted in front of the Civic Centre, fresh meat not to be sold on the corner of Willson and Victoria Streets, a soapbox upon which we can vent our considerable frustration over Watt Road….", and on the messenger rambled until the Councillors became numb and their I-Pods became more attractive.
And then from over Talana Hill came a Little Drummer Boy: wearing a tartan kilt and waving a South African flag - which was rather strange considering 2010 is now just a flicker in Danny Jordaan's bonus account. Pity that only the cricket guys got busted for taking bonuses but the football guys were caught off-side but (hey, get on with it - this is not the sports page - Editor).
...But the Drummer Boy hastened towards the Civic Centre and into the Fountain of Life he jumped. And the goats and cows (you know the ones that eat Elize Nel's roses during wedding photograph ceremonies every Saturday afternoon?) moo-ed (what do goats do? Kid around?). And some ratepayers called for the cow to stand up for them in Council.
"Go for the LED post or perhaps MM but ASAP because if you for EG forget there could be a problem with the ANC, DA, IFP, NFP and AAAG," demanded the messenger.
This appeared to confuse the cow. "What the hell is the AAAG?" it asked.
"Ag, just that new model Merc we have an eye on - you know with the roads we have around here we need a decent car to swerve around the potholes while driving to Bloedrivier when we meet the BBR."
By now the Councillors were irritated by these First Know-it Alls and immediately moved all future Council meetings to the Show Grounds as the Golf Club was full of corporate golfers puzzling over the format of the last competition. It was proposed that the entire Committee accompany the entire Umzinyathi Council to attend a golf-scoring summit at St Andrews, Scotland. At a cost of just about R1 million this was a bargain considering each delegate also receives an already sharpened pencil.
But alas the Show Grounds were filled with Diehards - you know the uniformed types. "Stand up if you are Mike's Boy Child - we want to buy these Show Grounds and change it into a green-friendly convention centre for all tree-huggers and lentil-eaters." But Mike's Boy Child received counsel from his Six Wisemen who came in from the East (Vryheid) and it was recommended that, seeing there was no room at the Inn, the Councillors and the ratepayers would have to return to the Royal City of Dawie and go back to the drawing board and continue to follow that Star.

Bekusinwa kudedelwana kwelokubuyisana

2011-12-20T03:38:00.002-08:00

Isigcina magugu saseNcome esasungulwa ngo 1998 uhulumeni ngenhloso yokugcina umlando wempi yaseNcome eyayiphakathi kwamaZulu namaNgisi besibungaza usuku lokubuyisana ngolwesihlanu mhlaka 16 December .
Lomncimbi ubuhanjelwe izinhlaka ezahlukene. Kukhona Ingoma, isicathamiya , umrhibo nokunye.
Lesisigcina magugu sibuye sibenenxenye yezinhlelo zezemfundo. " Namhlanje asikho lana ngokuzophikisana ukuthi ubani owaphumelela nowahlulwa kodwa sizobuyisana kusho ugqogqoshe wezamaCiko, Amasiko, Ezemidlalo nokuzijabulisa uNkz Ntombi Sibhidla Saphetha.
Uqhube wathi "kusasiphatha kabi ukubona abamhlophe nabamnyama bebungaza lolusuku ngokwehlukana kodwa sibesithi simunye. UNdunankulu uhlongoze ukuba kukhulunyiswane ngokwakhiwa kwebhuloho elizohlanganisa lezizigcina magugu zombili. " Loludaba sizoqhubeka nalo ngonyaka ozayo size sithole isisombululo kuqhuba uMEC

Rural community leads the way

2011-12-20T03:38:00.001-08:00

A rural community is leading the way as far as caring for the needy.
The Scelukukhanya Home-based Care Workers Graduation ceremony earlier this month saw 28 candidates graduate in the Limehill/Wasbank area.
Sabelo Molefe, project manager, said although the organisation is continually battling a lack of finance and does not receive any Government money, they are still managing to make a difference.
"The main aim is to promote a community-based comprehensive approach to alleviating HIV/Aids, illiteracy, and the stigma of poverty in this area," Mr Molefe said.
Those who graduated learnt about various sicknesses - including sexually-transmitted diseases, the human anatomy, tuberculosis, anti-retroviral treatment, protection of children against abuse and the prevention of mother-to-child transmission.
Care-givers will now educate the community about these various illnesses and how to treat and protect themselves from illness.
"The care-givers will also be expected to play a pivotal educational role by assisting people to access Government services (social grants, I.Ds. food, security services, etc.) and promote the one home, one garden project."
Mr Molefe called on the public to support the new care-givers by opening their doors to them.
He called on the Government - especially the Heath Department - to be proactive, not only by handing out medical kits but assisting with training programmes and even wage incentives for those care-givers who suffer discrimination because of their age.
"This training and support should consider seriously the rate of adult illiteracy - the role of private sponsors is to close the gap where the Government is unable to support with self-sustainable projects with potential to generate income to ensure sustainability." Mr Molefe said.
Anyone wishing to assist should contact Mr Molefe at 072 516 4266 or sabelomolefe@hotmail.com.

Die Woestynrot: Yippee... dis Kersfees in Fantasia….

2011-12-20T03:37:00.001-08:00

Die veelbesproke konsepwetgewing oor die beskerming van staatsinligting het die burgery in meer as een opsig die harnas ingejaag. Redakteurs oor die lengte en breedte van die land het met nuwe oë na hul telefoonlyste gekyk om seker te maak dat daar wel 'n prokureur op die diensstaat van die koerant of tydskrif is.
Daar is veel gewag gemaak van die twee ANC-parlementslede wat in terme van hulle gewete teen die wetgewing gestem het, of dan nou buite stemming gebly het. Big Daddy Gwede het kort daarna sy stem dik gemaak oor dié twee afvallige kinders in die werpsel, en kort daarna is, soos verwag is, bekend gemaak dat die tweetjies na verkeerde kopieë van die wetgewing gekyk het.
Ek kan hoor hoe redaksielede in hulle koffie in redaksiekantore oor die hele land proes. Waarom is dit nie snaaks nie, en hoe onnosel dink hierdie kamerade is die plaaslike burgery..? Daar loop al klaar grappies rond van jy het 'n Ben Turok op jouself getrek as jy jou bek groter oopmaak as wat goed is vir jou. Ag shame tog, man….
Ons beweeg weer die einde van die jaar se feesseisoen binne, met die gepaardgaande verhoging in die daling van intelligensiekwosiënte. Selfs in die kuberruimte word die waansin meer hierdie tyd van die jaar. 'n Skerp oog is egter genoeg om al die koring van die kaf te skei, en solank die volk weet dat jy geen lottery met jou rekenaar gaan wen nie, is die meeste van hulle Ballitobaaise vakansiegeld veilig.
Dis nou as jy nie daai paar duisend randjies wat jy gebêre het na jy daai paar osse by John Kirk verkoop het, gaan spandeer op daardie Nigeriese sypaadjiesmous se baal papiergeld wat veronderstel is om in dollars te verander as jy dit in die son laat lê nie. Dan gaan jy vakansie in die skaduwee van Gregory se Nek hou, niks verder nie. Want jy gaan bokkerol geld oorhê.
Die pak ou koerantpapier wat jy gekoop het, gaan ook nie in Amerikaanse dollars verander nie. Jy sal maar daai nuwe subassembly wat jy vir daai rubbish Landrover van jou wou koop, maar so bietjie moet uitstel. Die vrou gaan dik de moer in wees vir jou omdat sy nie daai nuwe Mighio armband kan gaan koop nie, en jy sal maar jou timeshare hierdie jaar aan die buurman moet verkwansel.
Dink net hoe gelukkig gaan jy wees om nie die pad te moet deel met al die maniakke met hulle moerse BMW's, Lexusse, Chryslers, M5'we en diesulke monsterbrandstofslurpers wat jag maak op middelklasmense se gewone karre op die snelweg. Jy gaan ook nie nodig hê om 'n nuwe Androidfoon vir daai ongeskikte tienerbrat van jou te koop nie, want sy gaan nie op die agterste sitplek in jou ore kan kerm nie.
Nou kan jy op jou stoep sit en kyk hoe ander mense Alkantstrand toe ry in Richardsbaai en hulself in die son gaan verkool in die skottelgoedwatersop van die Indiese Oseaan. Dink net aan al die verkeersopeenhopings wat jy gaan mis in en rondom Durban as Leonardo Di Caprio verby gaan kom om COP17 te gaan bywoon.

Elite honour floors wrestlers

2011-12-20T03:35:00.000-08:00

Steven Brown (Junior) and Sizwe Ndlovu have been selected by The South African Wrestling Association’s Elite Squad of wrestlers for 2012.
All wrestlers included in the Elite Squad for 2012 will be considered for all international events on the 2012 calendar.
"The local wrestling club is very proud of these two wrestlers, as through hard work and many hours of training they again made up proud," said coach, Steven Brown.
He concluded by wishing all wrestlers, their families and Courier readers a blessed Christmas and prosperous 2012.

She ain't heavy, she's my mother

2011-12-13T05:48:00.002-08:00

Her usual morning walk to work turned into a nightmare. Berdine Prinsloo now carries a Taser with her.
She says she feels a bit safer with the 'stun gun' on her after she was attacked on Gladstone Street on November 28.
"I left home on Union Street and it was about 7.15am when I was greeted by a youngish guy who was walking the other way. I returned the greeting but as I walked past him he suddenly turned around and grabbed me around the groin area," she said.
Fearing the worst, Berdine - a pharmacist's assistant - cried for help knowing that her son, Donovan, lives in a house across the road from where she was being attacked.
"There were some other people who saw me being attacked but did nothing to help. It was only when Donovan heard me calling that he rushed out of the house and grabbed the man and proceeded to beat him off."
Berdine said she was puzzled by the reaction from at least one other witness who objected to Donovan hitting the man, saying that "this is a new South Africa".
"While this man was having his say the assailant took the opportunity to flee," said Berdine. She later opened a charge at the police station but has received no feedback.
Donovan remains adamant that he did what any 'normal son' would have done - defend his mother in her time of need.

Quiet trickster in town

2011-12-13T05:48:00.001-08:00

From the dead gardener scam to the cheque deposit bluff - there is no end to the lengths conmen will go to trick people out of their hard earned cash.
The latest scam going around involves a well-dressed, quietly spoken man who calls himself Mr J van Heerden.
His modus operandi is to visit local businesses and present himself as a representative of Coastal Labour in Port Elizabeth.
His company claims to assist businesses with labour issues such as disciplinary procedures, contracts, etc.
His fees, R470, also included the putting up of labour law and health and safety posters in the work place.
One of those he ripped off admitted the 'alarm bells started ringing' when she noticed that his company profile was signed by himself, J van Heerden, and in brackets (B. Uiris) UNISA - as opposed to B Juris.
"His company also did not have a website and he did not have any business cards which we thought was also rather odd - nevertheless we went ahead and paid him the R470 as he appeared so professional and genuine," said one of his victims who preferred not to be named.
Mr van Heerden promised to return later to put up the posters but that is the last they saw of him.
Attempts to raise him on the two cell phone numbers he provided - one on the company profile and the other on a hand-written receipt - also drew a blank.
So business owners and individuals are again warned not to part with their money before checking out all the facts….

Pierre meets ‘jaws’

2011-12-13T05:46:00.001-08:00

johann hamman

Local tour operator and guide Pierre Duval bit off more than he could chew when he had a lively encounter with a hyena.
Pierre was on tour with guests in the Namibian wildlife reserve, Etosha, a few weeks ago.
His tourists had a close-up of Africa when a big spotted hyena ambled up to his Kombi bus at a water hole and proceeded to take a rather unhealthy interest in the front grill of the vehicle.
Pierre thought that he would scare the animal off by giving it a little nudge with the car, but this only infuriated the animal.
It attacked the car and bit into the bonnet, bending it over and leaving deep scratches in the plastic bumper.
The damage: A nail-biting R23 000.
"The animal's powerful jaws did considerable damage to the car, and the question remains: if it could that to a car, what would it do to your arm?", remarked Pierre.
He believes the hyena may have been rabid.
Moral of the story…? If a Namibian spotted hyena wants to inspect your car, stay still. Very still….

Feline and family are reunited

2011-12-13T05:45:00.001-08:00

A potential 'cat'astrophe has turned into a happy ending for one furry feline.
After six long months, Oreo the Siamese cat was finally reunited with his family and it's all thanks to Louis and Anita Nell. In April the Nells went to view a house in Oldacre Street. While walking down to the bottom of the garden they heard a cat crying pitifully from within a dense growth of yellow jasmine.
By talking to the cat they were able to coax it out. That beautiful Siamese was Oreo. Scared by an approaching dog, the Siamese bolted up a tree and that was the last the Nells saw of it that day. Six months passed and the couple moved into the house. Walking back down toward the bottom of the garden they never expected to find the cat still there. But there he was, crying when he heard their voices, but he wouldn't come out of the undergrowth.
"Eventually Louis crawled in on his stomach and coaxed the cat out. I contacted Siamese expert, Michelle Fleischman, hoping that she may be able to trace the owner, but she hadn't heard of anyone losing a Siamese cat," said Mrs Nell. Trying to find the owners when no-one knew the cat’s or owner's name was a daunting task. Soon Oreo had taken over their household and seeing that he was muched loved by his previous owners, the Nells knew they had to do all they could to reunite him with his rightful owners. With nowhere to turn to the couple turned to God for assistance and their prayers were soon answered.
"The following day Mr and Mrs Jan Naude paid us a visit, saw the cat and asked whose it was. When we relayed the story to them Jan suddenly recalled an incident.
"In April, a couple moving to George from Piet Retief was forced to make an emergency stop in Dundee after the husband took ill and was taken to hospital. During that time one of their Siamese cats took off and sadly they had to continue their journey without him." The Nells then took their search one step further by e-mailing the George Herald a picture of the cat and the story for publication.
The evening the paper came out, a family member contacted the Nells about the cat and said that his name was Oreo (after the biscuit). But the miracle didn't stop there.
On December 8, Mr Nell had to go to Ladismith in the Western Cape.
On his way he passed through Oudsthoorn where he met the ecstatic family who drove 50km from George just to be reunited with their Oreo. The reunion was a joyous affair. The Nells are only too happy to know that loving owners and cat have been reunited.

Falling pole shocks family

2011-12-13T05:44:00.002-08:00

A Sibongile family is blaming a careless truck driver for causing extensive damage to their home.
The Buthelezi family are still trying to get hold of the owner of the truck, the driver of which hooked a telephone cable that in turn dragged a Telkom pole on to the roof of their house on Madonsela Street.
Witnesses said the truck driver and a grader operator were working near the house when the cable became entangled.
The pole caused widespread harm to property but fortunately, no one was injured.
Mrs Buthelezi told the Courier that the 'truck owner is a well-known businessman in the area'. "I tried to contact the owner of the truck but my attempts failed. He did not answer any of the cellphone numbers on which I tried to call him," said an irate Mrs Buthelezi.
She said she is now considering taking legal action. Ward Councillor Bheki Ngobese has also assisted and he has contacted Telkom in a bid to have the disrupted telephone service restored in the area.

Spar - ready when you are

2011-12-13T05:44:00.001-08:00

The smart new parking area at the renovated, bigger, better Charlies Super Spar was officially opened on Wednesday. Just three months after work began on demolishing old buildings and making way for the new, Dave Coleman, Charlie Adalis and George Adalis were in a celebratory mood!
More good news is that the extensions to this popular supermarket are quickly taking shape for an even better shopping experience in Dundee. Remember: there are entrances to the new parking lot from Beaconfield and Gladstone Streets.

Big bleeds - the new battlefield

2011-12-13T05:43:00.003-08:00

Dundee has been famous for it's battlefields and the blood shed on them.
This past Monday, however, it was a different type of blood-spilling that attracted residents.
The Blood Bank were in town on Monday, hosting their special Big Bleed. Public relations practitioner, Shavani Sewpaul, said that they targeted this time of year specifically to host their Big Bleed.
With many accidents on the roads during the festive season, blood becomes a precious commodity. Schools are also closed during this time, meaning there is a bigger chance of attracting donors.

Eager residents
The Anglican Church hall played host to many eager residents who did their part in saving lives.
There was also juice and a hotdogs on offer to calm donors’ nerves. The most encouraging sight was seeing the involvement of youngsters in the Blood Bank. The Blood Bank has a Peer Promoters Programme, selecting learners from schools in the area to promote the work of the Blood Bank when the organisation is not at the schools. Since the programme has been launched, the number of donors has increased - positive signs for the future.
At the end of the year, the top four learners are offered jobs with the Blood Bank, two at the Ladysmith office and two in Newcastle. They then get paid for their work, the money going towards their studies.
Courtney Smith and John Timbalopez were on hand at the Big Bleed to assist. Both are excited to be making a difference and urge more people to come forward and donate blood.
"The accidents on our roads always increase during this time of year so the donations should too," they said.
Courtney and John have noticed the number of donors have increased among scholars, thanks to them creating awareness.
"There is a misconception among learners that donating blood is a painful ordeal and we want to stop that." The day proved to be very successful and 80 units of blood was collected. "A big thank you goes out to all our loyal and new Dundee donors," said Shavani.
The next Big Bleeds will be held at the Glencoe Town hall on December 22 from 1pm to 6pm, so go on - make a difference and help save a life.

Mixed Masala with the Token Indian

2011-12-13T05:43:00.001-08:00

It's Christmas time once again: a time of fun, festivity and fighting.
Yes you read right - fighting. Many may not associate fighting with the festive season but then again, many may not have alcoholic Indians living next door.
One can be forgiven for indulging in liquor during this time of year, as a form of celebration, but surely there is a limit.
For some Indians the word 'limit' has been removed from their dictionaries during the holidays.
This either results in some very humorous individuals who add to the holiday cheer, or some very late nights because of the noise levels.
Going back to the alcoholic neighbours, it has almost become a tradition now. At the end of another tummy-filling lunch and the snacking that continues throughout the day, you generally retire to the comfort of your bed, hoping it will still support your weight.
Like a bear ready for hibernation, all you can think of is drifting off into a wonderful sleep. However, that is not possible as a horrible noise filters through the closed windows.
If it was a movie all you would hear is 'You beep, come here I'll beep you up. You don't who you messing with you beeping beep.'
Sadly real life can't be censored at times and you hear the whole graphic conversation. Peering through a tiny gap in between the curtains (so as not to get caught spying) you watch the whole ordeal. Dinner and a show, another good day.
These fights are never ever the standard fist-fights, in fact there's hardly ever any contact. It's a matter of trying to out-swear your opponent and hope he actually believes anything you say, getting frightened and running away. Also with the number of friends you have holding you back, there's never a chance to hit anyone. You know that famous Indian line, 'Hold me back. I'm a tiger when I'm loose.'
While the dark side of some people does come out during the holiday period, there are also a few positives for Indian people. Christmas provides the perfect opportunity for 'bargain shopping', a true Indian talent.
What better way to exercise your talent for scoring discounts while shopping for that perfect gift for your loved one. Bargain shopping is easy and seems to be a thing all Indians are born with. We love getting things at cheaper prices and also do so with a straight face.
Many may even say that we are cheap but that's not the case, we are just thrifty, yes that's the word.
So go out there and be thrifty this Christmas. Drink but don't overdo it and please be safe on the roads. Have a very merry Christmas and a happy New Year.

Mfanafuthi - A runaway success story

2011-12-13T05:41:00.001-08:00

byron pillay

Endumeni has a new athletics hero and his name is Mfanafuthi Thusi.
Mfanafuthi recently conquered the Soweto Marathon, finishing number 36 in the 40-49 age category. His achievement also earned him a bronze medal and he was able to better his previous time. It wasn't only his running that impressed people, his dedication and willingness to help others also shone on the day. Mfanafuthi arranged a taxi full of athletes from the area to participate with him in the event.
Two of them also impressed at the marathon. Nathi Sithole took home a bronze medal while Thokozani Phungula earned himself a silver.
The Soweto Marathon isn't the only event Mfanafuthi has conquered.
In 2008 he tackled the Comrades Marathon and has beaten his time every year following that. It's the constant improvement that has made not only Mfanafuthi but also the whole of Endumeni proud.
Contributing to his success is a rigorous training schedule.
He runs 10km daily, ensuring that he is always fit.
His love for running started at school when he participated in school athletics and he has never looked back since.
After joining the Biggarsberg Athletics Club, those dreams became very possible as he entered more and more events.
He is hoping to get more youngsters to follow that example and follow their dreams.
"I want to make history for the area by winning a major marathon and be a role model for the youngsters of the area." With the full backing of Orange Grove, his employers, that could soon be a reality.
The company sponsored his transport, food and clothes for the marathon and is always supporting him.
It's the faith they have in him that is a motivational factor, pushing him to go further and do more.
He urges his fellow employees to join him in training and lead a healthy lifestyle.
Mfanafuthi thanked all the people who have stood by him and contributed to his success.

From underdogs to Champs

2011-12-13T05:39:00.000-08:00

From underdogs to champions, Dundee's cricketers have made the town proud.
The team was recently invited to participate in the Kwa-ZuluNatal’s Inland Cricket Union's Festive KFC T20 held in Pietermaritzburg. The odds were stacked against the Dundee team, packed with many youngsters who showed great maturity under pressure. The competition featured eight teams, the best that the KZN inland had to offer.
Many of the teams have players that play for the Inland team and some are even represented by Natal Dolphin players.
Despite the huge odds the Dundee XI made it to the final where they took on the number one Inland team, Lancashire.
Batting first the Lancashire team made an impressive 125/7 in their 20 overs.
With the pressure on, Dundee got off to a terrible start. At the end of the fourth over they were struggling at 7/3. With things looking bleak, in stepped two of their star players, Yusheer Govender and Haroon Bosman.
The two batsmen, who have on many occasions starred for their league team, Legends, stole the show. Together they put on a 92 run partnership for the fourth wicket before Yusheer was caught on the boundary, trying to go big - out for 48. Haroon then steadied the ship and led his team to a memorable victory with one over to spare.
A knock of 58 not out that included three sixes, Haroon also secured the winning runs for his team.
It was a proud moment, one that will not be forgotten by the Dundee team or by the other teams that underestimated them.

SAPS 83, dealers 0

2011-12-06T05:19:00.000-08:00

SIPHIWE NGWENYA

A massive drug bust in Sibongile comes in the wake of a commitment by Dundee Station Commissioner, Colonel S Makhubo, to rid the town of the growing scourge.
Eighty three mandrax tablets were seized from a house on Nxumalo Street, Sibongile, during an operation co-ordinated by Colonel Makhubo.
Four people - including a minor and a woman - were arrested at the house.
The woman was arrested while in a mini bus, parked near the house, where she was attempting to dispose of the mandrax tablets.
Disturbingly, it was learnt afterwards that the mini bus is used to deliver drugs to dealers is also used to transport children to various schools in the area.
However, it was later learnt that the case was never enrolled at the Court and the suspects released.
More information will be published next week regarding why the suspects were released.
Member of the SAPS's Public Order Policing Unit and Dog Unit assisted with the operation.
Colonel Makhubo said he wanted to 'give the community the assurance that drug dealers will be dealt with up until they, the SAPS, are satisfied that they have won the battle'.

Hope for sewage spill victim?

2011-12-06T05:18:00.001-08:00

The flow of raw sewage that was pumped out of a tanker contracted to pick up effluent from rural schools... farmer Herman de Wet took the photograph last month when he saw the tanker depositing the sewage on Hope farm near Rorke’s Drift.

Is there any hope for Hope farm - the recent victim of a deliberate sewage spillage?
Farmer, Herman de Wet, estimates that at least 30 litres of raw sewage was pumped into a donga from a tanker, hired by the Education Department to remove sewage from rural schools.
However, instead of taking the sewage to the treatment works outside Dundee, the contractor dumped the effluent in the donga, which Mr de Wet feared could pollute the Buffalo River, which is only several hundred metres from the site.
Mr de Wet told the Courier that very low counts of ecoli bacteria were found in soil samples taken on his property by Environmental Affairs.
"It's to be expected," he said. "We have had over 20 mm of rain after the spill, and most of that is now in the Buffalo River, on its way to the Tugela."
The Department of Agriculture and Environmental Affairs undertook the testing, but it now looks as if no prosecution might be possible, due to the low readings taken at the site of the spill. A warning notice will now be issued to the contractor in question.
"It is a great pity that the prosecutor at Dundee did not do her job when she was required to do so. It might have been different then," Mr de Wet commented
He indicated that he would again be speaking to the prosecutor in question.
Mr de Wet took photos of the tanker crew dumping the effluent into the donga. The photographs are in the possession of the Courier.
It was only when the crew realised that they may be in trouble that they made an effort to hide their faces.
Following the front page story in the Courier dated November 25, the Courier was contacted by the contractor who said he would send in his 'side of the story'. To date, nothing has been received.
The Courier was also called by a Water Affairs Department representative who wanted information on the spillage but did not show up for a meeting scheduled for last week.

Even Santa needs help

2011-12-06T05:15:00.001-08:00

Christmas is an exciting time, especially for children who eagerly wait to see what Santa has left them under the tree.
Sadly though there are many less fortunate children who never experience this joy. They never know the joy of receiving a gift, the faces never breaking into a smile.
With that in mind, Candice Donaldson took on the challenge of bringing smiles to their faces and Operation Christmas Helpers was born. The idea behind Operation Christmas Helpers is simple; to make a difference in the lives of the less fortunate and give them a present this Christmas. So far 1000 children have been identified from Sithembile, Sibongile, Dlamini Village, Hattingspruit and Pomeroy.
There are three ways you can do this.
Option one involves wrapping or decorating a shoebox and filling it with items for a child, first deciding whether you want to buy for a school going child or younger. The items should include a toothbrush, toothpaste, soap, face cloth, small packet of sweets, school stationery (if the child is in school) or a soft toy (if they are younger). Then mark your box for either a boy or girl and put an age. The box can then be dropped of at one of the drop off points or can be collected by Candice and her team of Santa's helpers if there are more than 10 boxes.
Option two is for those who wish to make an item donation as opposed to filling a whole box.
Option three is for those who prefer to make a cash donation. R70 will ensure that a box is filled on your behalf and sent for distribution by the Christmas helpers.
Collections started on November 1 and ends December 15, so help make a difference before it is too late.
There is a drop off basket in Pick n Pay and the other is at Electrical Centre, 1 Diaz Road. For more information on how you can spread the smiles this Christmas, contact Candice Donaldson on 082 859 3339 or Mrs Bradley on 079 522 2398 or Patty Donaldson on 073 551 6469.

A tower of information

2011-12-06T05:14:00.003-08:00

Kungenkathi umphakathi wase Nquthu kwa Nyezi ‘uhlaba isoyi’ lokwakha umbhoshongo wezokuxhumana ( Tower) bekanye nezinduna zendawo kanye namaKhosi beme endaweni lapho kuzokwakhiwa lo mbhoshongo ozosiza kakhulu umphakathi wase Nquthu nge- Internet esheshayo kunalena ebikhona.

Nquthu schools and businesses are in for a boost with the building of a 24-metre tower to introduce wireless Internet technology and improve telephone services.
Well known businessman, Charles Nyezi owner of Lenyora Distribution in Nquthu, was approached by members of the National Council of Provinces during the NCOP sitting in Nquthu last month to assist this rural town to improve communication links.
The official sod turning ceremony took place in the Mkhonjane area on November 16. The R250 000 project has been co-ordinated by Jenny Internet in Newcastle - a franchise dealer in wireless Internet technology.
The Nquthu tower will be linked to the Newcastle tower - some 85km away.
"We are sure this project will greatly assist this community… Nquthu has long been neglected by national companies for various reasons and wireless technology will allow us to tap into a previously ignored market."
Under-resourced schools will also benefit and have easy access to the Internet.
He said the tower has a radius of 30km.
Mr Nyezi emphasised that they are working on how to stretch the project to Kwa-Nongoma.
Rolf Stucky, marketing director of Jenny Internet in Newcastle said ‘we are lucky that Charles has come on board.’
"Charles has the right mix of business and people skills to make this project work. Nquthu is a big area for us to move into. Nquthu has no ADSL infrastructure and has constant problems with cable breakages - we plan to first signup all businesses and schools in the area, then concentrate on home users.
"At the end of the day knowledge is power and providing high speed Internet in Nquthu should also spur on economic growth."

Parting Shot: the day I met a friendly Alien in uniform

2011-12-06T05:14:00.001-08:00

Its official: Aliens are using the earth as a battleground for extra-terrestrials to advance their own political agenda.
And you thought there were only in the Council? Hmm, well the country's first UFO science and consciousness conference heard in Johannesburg last month that there is a battle for earth by some interesting dark forces. This is all true. Promise.
Author Michael Tellinger told the Courier that: "All the governments in the world are puppets and instruments to implement the will of a small group of individuals. The royal political bloodline goes back thousand of years."
He said the royal political bloodline was a small group of families whose origins could be traced to the first of mankind and who were inevitably in contact with the aliens.
"The South African government was one of the most important puppets of these extra-terrestrials because of the gold reserves.

"Extra-terrestrials were also not dissimilar to politicians, who pushed their own agenda for material gain."
(Source: News 24 website)
And you thought we were obsessed with T-shirts, caps and S and T claims? Driving back from Glencoe to Dundee last Saturday night - at about 8.30pm - I came across an alien near the testing grounds - you know where all those roadworks have been going on.
He was actually pretty good looking - as far as aliens go. He had a moustache (great - a supporter of Movember - what a community orientated little creature). He stopped me and I thought he wanted help - you know that 'take me to your leader' scenario. I have always wanted to be the guy who would introduce the first Martian to Pres JZ (what do you mean he has already met Malema?). Anyway, this alien was khaki coloured (you see stereotyping is dangerous - not all are green) and he even saluted me.
Behind him I saw a flashing light coming from his space ship - just near TD Agri.
I wound down the window and he spoke broken English (hey, I was not holding this against him - I mean by Martianian is shabby at the best of times) and wanted to know where I was going.
"I am going home, friend. I suppose you wish you were home too - you are mighty far from your family, hey? Shame man."
The alien grunted something I could not catch (but I thought it may have been equivalent of what us humans know as choking back tears) and thrust some plastic thing at me and asked me to blow into it. "Of course," I replied thinking he was taking DNA samplesback to his leader.
He kept checking something and then said rather gruffly this time:
"Sir, get out the car and come wiv me." I did. Maybe we were going for a ride in his space ship. I noticed that he had an antenna protruding from his hip - which I thought was pretty conventional for an alien. He then spoke into this antenna saying 'Ja, Jan ons het een - ek vat hom polisie stasie toe."
Hey, an Afrikaans speaking alien - wow, the Desert Rat is going love this. Maybe we can ask him to pop over to Blood River on the 16th. He then opened the door of his space ship and told me to get in. It was only when I saw the sign on his door, 'Traffic,' that I realised that the aliens were indeed in control tonight.

Talented youngsters promise holiday fun

2011-12-06T05:13:00.001-08:00

It's the holiday season once again, a time of year that youngsters most look forward too.
Sadly for those who don't leave on vacation, fun can be hard to come by in a small town. Many parents stress that their children will get mixed up in unsavory events with the undesirables of society.
Thankfully four locals are coming to the rescue, with plans to provide entertainment that's sure to drive the boredom away. Master magician, Haroon Sader and his equally talented sister Raeesah together with Michaela Markgraaf and Belinda Mulhatton have big plans for the small town, wanting to do something for the youngsters. Starting on Saturday, December 10 they will be hosting a day of entertainment, magic and mystery.
Held at 31 McKenzie Street (across from the Civic Centre) the day promises to be full of fun and festivities. Watch Haroon perform some breathtaking extreme human body stunts before your very eyes, can you handle it?
Or participate in the talent show, whether it be singing or dancing, maybe even a little rap, show everyone what you've got. Doors open at 1pm and close at 4pm so show your support for these youngsters who are trying to make a difference. These fun days will be held every Saturday with the entertainment on offer changing every week.
For more information about the fun days or if you would like to offer your assistance, contact the group on 078 778 7686.

More Movember fun

2011-12-06T05:12:00.000-08:00

Henk and Nicky were judged to have grown the most impressive moustaches and other facial hair throughout the 30 days of November and were congratulated by Marita Jamison of the Cancer Association.

It was a happy crowd of manly volunteers who were at Casa Neitos on Wednesday, November 30 - the last day of Movember when those who grew moustaches in support of the fight against prostrate cancer could ‘go clean’. Two ladies from the Cancer Association were on standby to administer the ‘final cut’ while others preferred to do their own shaving at home.
All in all, more fun was had by more men and ladies...

Talana embraces Sounds of Music

2011-12-06T05:11:00.000-08:00

The grounds were alive with the sounds of music.
While this may not be a remake of the popular 1960's musical 'The Sound of Music', starring Julie Andrews, it still featured lots of catchy tunes and happy families. Talana Museum's Sounds of Music attracted a huge number of people who came to enjoy a wonderful Friday evening, singing along to their favourite Christmas Carols, enjoying the radiant glow of the Christmas lights and spending precious time with their loved ones. Even the weather played its part, allowing for a beautifully calm evening that catered to everyone's needs. While the children ran around admiring the lights spread throughout the grounds, the parents were kept entertained by the music. From the piper, David Wait, entertaining the crowds with bagpipes to Clara sLathan and the Anglican Choir rendering carols, the sounds of music wafted throughout the mighty battlefield.
The sound of Amazing Grace played on the bagpipes brought the evening to an end as behind Piper David Wait, the Christmas lights shone as brightly as all those who performed that evening.

Corporate Day scores an eagle

2011-12-06T05:10:00.001-08:00

The Golf Club’s Development team were seen off by starter Richard Catlett: Sydney Zulu, T Langa,coach Joe Khumalo, Marc Bradbury (of the Gold Club committee), Nathi Mchunu and and S Ngubane.

Some at the Golf Club are probably relieved this past weekend is history as it was an extremely long eventful weekend.
As the saying goes, "many hands make light work" and the Club is appreciative to every individual and company who contributed towards the highly successful "Corporate Classic" held at our beautifully manicured club last Friday.
The Club is grateful to the weatherman who ensured lovely weather; fun was had by all 46 teams who participated.
Many thanks to Forbes Coal, Sandvik, Springlake and Hi-tech for encouraging humour on the course by providing the players with an array of drinks and shooters; to Bertus and his team for initiating and organising the event; el-Kapitan, Richard and his team for all their hard work, Hugo the greenkeeper, a big thank you for performing miracles on our course; Stanley for all his organising; the barmen and cleaning staff, Casa Nieto's for the delicious meals; the registration ladies, Rob, the loyal maintenance man and a special thank you to PK and Kelly, the loyal friendly ladies in the Pro-shop; not to mention Dave, the course marshall and Marc, who carted everything "cartable" ... to those whose names have not been mentioned, thank you !

Experience squander chances

2011-12-06T05:03:00.001-08:00

Dundee Experience missed several chances and had to settle for a draw against their more illustrious Durban opponents, African Wanderers.
The teams clashed in a KwaZulu Natal-Vodacom league game played at the Mpumelelo Stadium in Sibongile last Sunday.
Despite enjoying excellent goal taking chances created by the mid-field, Experience's strikers could not force the ball over the line. They did earn a penalty from which they scored - courtesy of the talented Jomo. But the home team conceded a goal after 15 minutes thanks to a sweeping move by Wanderers. Experience supporters who packed the stadium to support their team agreed that the team only needs luck after missing so many chances. This week Experience will not have a league game as eight players have been nominated to participate in the SALGA games in Durban. They meet Sicilians in Newcastle on December 16.

‘Dannhauser does not account to a newspaper’

2011-11-29T03:20:00.001-08:00

The Protection of State Information Bill may not be passed as yet but already municipalities are clamping down on information.
This is none the more evident than at Dannhauser Municipality when the Courier recently contacted them for comment.
Disgruntled community members in Striijbank recently contacted the Courier to voice their dissatisfaction at the poor service delivery they had been receiving and hopefully get some answers.
The major concerns brought forward by the community are that they never received title deeds for their houses since the government purchased the land in 2000.
Just when they thought their problems could not get any worse, the shale quarry in the area was illegally used.
The community first approached the municipality, asking them to use the shale to repair the roads in the area.
Within a few days of testing the quarry material, construction vehicles moved into the area.
Assuming that they were going to benefit, the community members didn't mind at all until the reality of the situation hit them.
The construction company only did a small portion of road in the area, using the shale for other roads.
Upset by the matter they approached their ward councillor, Vincent Ndaba, who allegedly said that they 'would not get electricity and other development needed in the area while he was their ward councillor.'
Naturally upset, they approached the Mayor who they alleged promised to visit the area and speak to the community personally but has never done so.
They then forwarded their grievances to the KZN Department of Co-operative Governance and Traditional Affairs who acknowledged that they have received the letter but have not yet responded.
With no where else to turn they approached the newspaper - their last ray of hope.
When the Courier approached the municipality for comment, the response left more questions than answers: A spokesman replied via e-mail thus:
"I write on behalf of the Municipal Manager as he has instructed me to pass on his dissatisfaction over the recent complaints sent to us for a response. If complainants want to lodge a complaint, they must come to Council. If they go via newspapers we assume all will be publicised, as we do not account to a newspaper and would like to stop the information brokering system between our residents, the newspaper and the Municipality," was the comment, which failed to address the matter at hand.
What many fail to understand is that while newspapers would prefer not to get into the middle of a blame game between municipality and resident, as community watchdogs it is the role of that newspaper.
When people have nowhere else to turn, have received no answers from public bodies or people in power, they turn to the newspapers for assistance. With the clampdown on information slowly approaching it begs the question, 'What do municipalities have to hide?'

Branching out

2011-11-29T03:19:00.001-08:00

Going green - in time for the international Climate Conference in Durban. Endumeni Municipality has branched out into ensuring its contribution to the environment by planting 340 indigenous white Stinkwood trees within the municipal area.
A Tree Committee has overseen the planting of the trees with input from ward committee members and expert advice from tree expert, Dr Theo Schwellnus.
Trees have already been planted at the Cenotaph, at the new entrance to Dundee on Karelandman Street, and on the Victoria Street entrance to town.
Bart Maltman, Technical Services Manager, confirmed trees have also been planted adjacent to the extension 18 by-pass.
Members of the committee are to also identify where trees will be planted in Glencoe.
Mayor Thulani Mahaye, a known green enthusiast, recently announced that an additional 500 trees would be planted throughout the municipal area.
Mr Maltman also had further good news: the 'eye-sore' electrical substation on the slipway at the junction of Union/Tatham and Karelandman Streets is to be 'beautified' by the planting of shrubs and a water feature - all overseen by a professional horticulturist.
Ward Councillor Anthon Raubenheimer said much was being done to improve the aesthetics of the town in the wake of the Karelandman Street upgrade.
Dr Schwellnus suggested that Council encourage local businesses to purchase flower boxes to be put outside their shops and offices which would also brighten up the central business district.
"Very soon, businesses could even compete to see who has the best looking flower box. Hanging flower boxes could also be used as in Europe," he enthused.
Nico Rose of the Municipality warned that newly planted trees are often stolen by thieves who simply have them re-sold.
He called on residents to ensure that this does not happen by being vigilant.
Dr Schwellnus would like more to be done to create awareness over the important role trees play in 'breathing for the environment'.
He suggested that everyone who has an old or rotten tree chopped down, replace these by planting three new trees or donating money to the Municipality to buy and plant trees.
Mayor Mahaye recently announced plans to open up a multi-functional Freedom Park in the Rhodesia Section of Sibongile - which will also greatly improve the aesthetics of the town.

Iziguga zihlomule ngempahla yokuqinisa umzimba

2011-11-29T03:18:00.005-08:00

UMeya wase Ndumeni uKhansela Thulani Mahaye uwaxwayise amalunga omphakathi athola omsebenzi ngokuya ocansini.
UMeya Mahaye wenze lesimemezelo ngenkathi ehambele umhlangano ubusehholo yomphakathi eSibongile.
lemihlangano ingeminye eyichungechunge uMeya ahambela ngayo wonke amawadi ase Ndumeni ngenhloso yokuxhumana nabavoti ukuze azwakalise esebekwenzile sebelokhu bakhethwa bengamakhansela.
Kulomcimbi ube esenikelzela ngempahla yokuzivo cavoca kwiziguga zase sibongile kanye namalunga umphakathi.
Lempahla idle imali elinganiselwa ku R25 00 ngokombiko ka Mnuz Percy Mabilisa oyibmba likamenenja wedolobha ozoqokwa maduzane.
Umphakthi ube usunikezwa ithuba elingandile ngu khansela bheki Ngobese ukuba uphathise umphako amakhansela ngezinto ababona ukuti zizolethe intuthuko Endumeni.
Ziningi izinto eziphakamisiwe, ezinye zazo ukuba kusulwe izigwelende zentela ezindala ezasala ko gogo nomkhulu esebashona.
Futhu kubhekelelwe nalezi zingane eziyizintandane. Umkhandlu ubuye wanikezwa umphako wokuba ube nohlelo lweminyaka emihlanu
umkhandlu ozophatha ngalo umphakathi.
UMeya ubesetshela umphakathi ukuthi izindlu zizokwkahiwa e Ndumeni njengoba inkinga yamannzi isicaziluliwengumkhandlu wase Mzinyathi.
Uqhube wathi uMeya kuzadeleka amathuba omsebenzi anaghle aqashe amalunga omphakathi angu 50 kuya 60.
Uthi uMeya lamathuba omsbenzi azodaleka ngenhla ye project yokutshalwa kwezihlahla zendabuko edle imali elinganiselwa ku R4,5 million ekhishwe nguMnyango weze Mvelo.
Ephinde wachaza ngemali engu R15 million yokwakhiwa kwendawo yokulahla inkunkuma.
Uthe lapho kulindeleke abantu ababalelwa ku 100 abazoqhashwa.
uthe endaweni yase Wasbank eThelaphi kunemali engu 4,9 million yokufakwa kwamanzi.
Umphakathi ulithaksele loluhleo luka Meya Mahaye
Ukugcizelele ukuthi enamakhansela kanye nomenja basazo qhubekele kwamanye amawadi. U Nomusa Khanyile uchaze kabanzi ngokushitsha shitsha kwesimo sezuluegcizelela nokubaluleka ngokucginwa kwemvelo.

Dundee - soon to be the new Hollywood?

2011-11-29T03:18:00.003-08:00

Mzansi Magic Television film shooters were here to search for young acting talent.
Bonnie Sithebe from Durban Motion Pictures was accompanied by her colleagues, Phumlani Sithebe and Vivian Moodley, and were welcomed by Endumeni Mayor, Thulani Mahaye last Thursday.
Miss Sithebe told the Mayor that Dundee got this opportunity thanks to gospel artist, Xoli Mthethwa, who was also involved in a project with Mzansi Magic.
"Xoli told me she is interested in acting and she said her hometown Dundee is full of young people who are talented in acting, " said Miss Sithebe.
Mayor Mahaye thanked Miss Mthethwa for being an ambassador for her town.
He promised he would discuss with Council this initiative which will assist young actors here.
Miss Sithebe asked the Mayor if the council could assist with catering of about 45 people and the venue for the workshop, which will take part from November 30 to December 2 for Live Talent Search.
This is an opportunity that the youth must take to stand a chance to become a presenter of one of Mzansi's hottest and most-popular music shows on SABC 1.

"Annale van 'n Windgat"

2011-11-29T03:18:00.001-08:00

Verlede Vrydagaand het Dundee besoek ontvang van 'n skitterende show, Annale van 'n Windgat, by die Umzinyathi Community Education Centre Arena. Dit is 'n komiese eenman vertoning oor persoonlikheidstipes.
Die akteur is Neels Clasen, een van ons land se voorste opkomende sterre. Hy speel Jan Gerecke, die tronkvoël, in Binneland.
Die woord 'gat' is die gebruikervriedelikste woord in Afrikaans en word in die play as metafoor vir 'persoonlikheid' gebruik. Die krag van die show lê daarin dat mense hulself en ander mense in die uitgebeelde situasies herken. Al laggende leer jy meer oor menswees en verhoudings.
One-liners van mense wat die show gesien het is:
n "Annale van 'n Windgat is die snaaksste show wat ek in jare gesien het. Ons het ons gatte afgelag." Andrew
n "The play was not only very funny - it taught me a lot about life and relationships." Sheila
n "Annale van 'n windgat is humor op sy beste. Ons hou nie op om daaroor te praat nie." Coen
n "As die play weer hierdie rigting kom, gaan ek dit weer kyk en my familie saamsleep." Arlene
Annale van 'n Windgat gaan vroeg in die nuwe jaar weer Dundee toe kom en wéér by die Arena! Ons sal lesers op die hoogte hou van die tyd en plek.
Roer dan jou gat om dit te gaan sien!

Farewell to Table stalwarts

2011-11-29T03:15:00.000-08:00

A busy 2011 has drawn to a close and this year has been full of many community projects, loads of fun and sad farewells.
This year the Tablers took to the Dundee night life as well as Pick 'n Pay centre in order to sell bandanas in the aid of the Sunflower Fund for Cancer research. Thank you to all who supported us on that day - we sold 200 bandanas, and really appreciate the community's assistance with this.
In October, Round Table ushered in summer at Pro Nobis by spoiling the children to a fun filled day of waterslides, jumping castles and a mini pool. The children also enjoyed snacks and juice - sponsored by Orange Grove Dairy.
A Beach Party will be held on December 15 at the club house. If last year's party is anything to go by - you do not want to miss this one. Contact Christopher Purcell (073 169 2449) or Charles Wade (072 386 9246) for more information on this event.
It is with heavy hearts that Round Table bid farewell to two stalwarts of Dundee 94. Bill and Caran Fraser and Greg Van Blomenstein have immigrated to Australia - we wish them all the best in their future endeavours and they will truly be missed.

Die Woestynrot

2011-11-29T03:14:00.000-08:00

Dis Kersfees en COP 17 in Fantasia...

Die veelbesproke konsepwetgewing oor die beskerming van staatsinligting het die burgery in meer as een opsig die harnas ingejaag. Redakteurs oor die lengte en breedte van die land het met nuwe oë na hul telefoonlyste gekyk om seker te maak dat daar wel 'n prokureur op die diensstaat van die koerant of tydskrif is.
Daar is veel gewag gemaak van die twee ANC-parlementslede wat in terme van hulle gewete teen die wetgewing gestem het, of dan nou buite stemming gebly het. Big Daddy Gwede het kort daarna sy stem dik gemaak oor dié twee afvallige kinders in die werpsel, en kort daarna is, soos verwag is, bekend gemaak dat die tweetjies na verkeerde kopieë van di wetgewing gekyk het.
Ek kan hoor hoe redaksielede in hulle koffie in redaksiekantore oor die hele land proes. Waarom is dit nie snaaks nie, en hoe onnosel dink hierdie kamerade is die plaaslike burgery..? Daar loop al klaar grappies rond van jy het 'n Ben Turok op jouself getrek as jy jou bek groter oopmaak as wat goed is vir jou. Ag shame tog, man….
Ons beweeg weer die einde van die jaar se feesseisoen binne, met die gepaardgaande verhoging in die daling van intelligensiekwosiënte. Selfs in die kuberruimte word die waansin meer hierdie tyd van die jaar. 'n Skerp oog is egter genoeg om al die koring van die kaf te skei, en solank die volk weet dat jy geen lottery met jou rekenaar gaan wen nie, is die meeste van hulle Ballitobaaise vakansiegeld veilig.
Dis nou as jy nie daai paar duisend randjies wat jy gebêre het na jy daai paar osse by John Kirk verkoop het, gaan spandeer op daardie Nigeriese sypaadjiesmous se baal papiergeld wat veronderstel is om in dollars te verander as jy dit in die son laat lê nie. Dan gaan jy vakansie in die skaduwee van Gregory se Nek hou, niks verder nie. Want jy gaan bokkerol geld oorhê.
Die pak ou koerantpapier wat jy gekoop het, gaan ook nie in Amerikaanse dollars verander nie. Jy sal maar daai nuwe subassembly wat jy vir daai rubbish Landrover van jou wou koop, maar so bietjie moet uitstel. Die vrou gaan dik de moer in wees vir jou omdat sy nie daai nuwe Mighio armband kan gaan koop nie, en jy sal maar jou timeshare hierdie jaar aan die buurman moet verkwansel.
Dink net hoe gelukkig gaan jy wees om nie die pad te moet deel met al die maniakke met hulle BMW's, Lexusse, Chryslers, M5'we en diesulke monsterbrandstofslurpers wat jag maak op middelklasmense se gewone karre op die snelweg. Jy gaan ook nie nodig hê om 'n nuwe Androidfoon vir daai ongeskikte tienerbrat van jou te koop nie, want sy gaan nie op die agterste sitplek in jou ore kan kerm nie.
Nou kan jy op jou stoep sit en kyk hoe ander mense Alkantstrand toe ry in Richardsbaai en hulself in die son gaan verkool in die skottelgoedwatersop van die Indiese Oseaan. Dink net aan al die verkeersopeenhopings wat jy gaan mis in en rondom Durban as Leonardo Di Caprio verby gaan kom om COP17 te gaan bywoon.

DHS give Santa a hand

2011-11-29T03:13:00.000-08:00

Dundee High School's prefects of 2012 held a collection for gifts at the school in the fourth term in aid of Operation Santa's Helpers, and the response was heart-warming.
This worthy cause is the brainchild of Candice Donaldson after seeing the need to put smiles on all children’ s faces in Dundee this Christmas.
With many underprivileged children not knowing the joy of Christmas, Operation Santa's Helpers’ mission is to collect gifts for these children and spread the love around.
If you would like to be one of Santa's Elves and wish to put a smile on a child’s face, please visit the stand at the Pick 'n Pay Boulevard Centre (next door to Sheet Street).
Wishlist
Toothbrushes, toothpaste, soap, facecloths, packets of sweets, stationary or plush toys to assist this group in making up gift packages to make this a memorable Christmas for all.
Dundee High School challenges all residents and schools in the area to also collect gifts for this worthy cause and make this a wonderful Christmas for all the children in the area.

Karate-Ka packed a punch in 2011

2011-11-29T03:12:00.000-08:00

The Dundee JKA Karate Club, which is affiliated to South African JKA Karate, has had a very successful 2011. Front: Reone Moodley, Saif ,Tyrone Petzer, Jesse Jhilmeet, Kiana Sadaw
Middle : Sonja Bruyns, Nikhita Maharaj
Back: Trisha Rajkumar, Sensei Jacques Braun ,Pieter de Bruin. See page 15 for more.

The Dundee JKA Karate Club, which is affiliated to South African JKA Karate, has had a very successful 2011.
The club currently consists of 30 members and is looking forward to grow even more in 2012.
The following events were attended by Dundee JKA Karateka during 2011:
Northern Natal JKA Championship - March
This tournament doubles as trials for Northern Natal team selection for the SA JKA National Tournament.
The following karateka participated: Pieter de Bruin (Gold Kata en Kumite Junior division and Gold Kumite Senior division), Trisha Rajkumar (Gold Kumite Junior division), Sonja Bruyns (Bronze Kumite Senior division), Nikhita Maharaj (Senior division) and Tyrone Petzer (Cadet division).
SA JKA Championship - Standard Bank Arena - May
Trisha Rajkumar (Gold Kumite Junior division) and Pieter de Bruin (Silver Kumite Junior division). This tournament has entries from all the JKA Dojos in South Africa as well as entries from Namibia, Mozambique and Botswana. The total entries varies from 3000 to 5000 per year and stretches over 2 years.
JKA Shoto Cup Thailand Trials and Tournament - August
All medal winners at the SA JKA Tournament were invited to the trials held at Mandeville Sports Centre in Johannesburg. Here, a national JKA team was selected to participate in an international JKA tournament called the Shoto Cup, which is held every two years in a different country. (2011 in Thailand and 2013 in France). The following karateka particpated: Trisha Rajkumar (Placed 5th in the 16 to 18 year old Kumite division); Pieter de Bruin (Placed 6th in the 16 to 18 year old Kumite division).
Northern Natal JKA Karate Camp - September
The following karateka particpated:
Pieter de Bruin and Sonja Bruyns.
At the camp held at Kwasinungu near Volksrust karateka receive intensive training pertaining to their skills and Belt level.
Training is done by all the senior Northern Natal Instructors. Not everything is serious stuff and time is set aside for fun and games as well. The camp is highly recommended for all junior belt levels as it is aimed at the overall skills development of all junior karateka.
Dan Grading and visit of World Champion in Newcastle - October
The following karateka participated: Pieter de Bruin; Trisha Rajkumar; Nikhita Maharaj; Sonja Bruyns; Jesse Jhilmeet and Tyrone Petzer.
The opportunity to train with Sensei Johan Le Grange can not be missed. It is on a invitation only basis and the knowledge gained at this session can not be put into words. All karateka that qualified to grade to Shodan (Black Belt) and above are put through their paces in a pre-grading session by Sensei Le Grange.
If successful, they are given the opportunity to attend the National Dan Grading in Johannesburg.
Dan Grading and SA JKA Championship -
Due to the school exams, no one from Dundee JKA were able to attend although the following karateka were eligible to attempt their Nidan (2nd black belt level) grading: Pieter de Bruin, Trisha Rajkumar and Nikhita Maharaj.
SA JKA Championship
The following karateka participated: Pieter de Bruin (Bronze Kumite Junior Division) and Sonja Bruyns.
This SA JKA Tournament is held under World Karate Federation rules.
Unfortunately this tournament falls in exam time and only 1000 entries were received. The competition is of a high standard as entries from all over South Africa, Namibia, Botswana and Mozambique were received.
Northern Natal JKA Prize-giving and year-end function - November 26.
The weekend starts with a black belt training session for all other belts until lunchtime.
After lunch the last grading session of the year takes place and the following karateka graded to the following level:
Hafsah Buckus - Pre-yellow; Siddeoq Buckus - Pre-yellow; Umar Buckus - Pre-yellow; Larissa Mughoo - Pre-yellow; Jyothi Balasar - Yellow; Shekaar Balasar - Yellow; Bhavika Dhooki - Yellow; Omera Ramdharee - Yellow; Nicholas Steenkamp - Yellow; Rachel Steenkamp - Yellow; Elicia van der Merwe - Yellow; Serushen Govender - Orange; Aadil Mohamed - Orange; Samiksha Ramballie - Orange; Camarah Jhilmeet - Green; Cloe-Anne Petzer - Green; Shanel Uchee - Green; Shanique Uchee - Green; Jesse Jhilmeet - Purple; Reone Moodley - Red; Sonja Bruyns - Brown; Tyrone Petzer - Brown and Kiana Sadaw - Brown.
The prize-giving for all Northern Natal Dojo’s and Dinner took place after the grading. More information on the trophy winners will be published at a later stage.
The following events were available to Dundee JKA Karateka but due to various reasons none of our students attended.
Karate South Africa Trials: This enables students to earn their Protea colours and participate in the Commonwealth Games (Trisha Rajkumar has already achieved this in the past and participated in Scotland).
Zone5 Championships - Mozambique: This is on invitation to Black belts that have won gold at the SA JKA Tournament.
Karate South Africa Championships: Karateka from all the different styles in South Africa compete here and are also placed on a ranking system linked to the KSA trials. An ex-Dundee JKA student, Viyal Soni, is currently ranked No 1 in his weight and age division.
Classes start on the first Tuesday and Thursday after school re-opens.
For any further information please do not hesitate to contact Sensei Jacques Braun anytime on 082 819 3612 or leave him a message and he will get back to you.

Taking on the Roof

2011-11-29T03:11:00.000-08:00

No, not fiddlers on the roof but riders who were willing to take on one of the toughest extreme enduro events in the world: the Roof of Africa in Lesotho.
Craig van Heerden and teenager, Carl Donaldson, have returned from this gruelling motor biking classic and both can hold their heads up.
This was Craig's fifth Roof and he completed the gold section - that means completing all three days of the race - with an hour and 42 minutes to spare to finish 28th.
"This year there were three sections: gold, silver (which means riders finish 2/3 of the race and bronze where you do only a third of the route," said Craig.
There were 250 riders with 30 foreign professionals also competing.
"Saturday was particularly tough and I spent almost 11 hours in the saddle. The race is so tough and technical that riders cannot go fast so even when you fall (I fell twice!) you do not really hurt yourself because you are going so slowly."
Carl (17) finished the bronze class which was an astounding achievement for this Dundee High School lad.The winner was Graham Jarvis of the United Kingdom who finished half an hour in front of the field. Concluded Craig:
"I just want to thank my wife and kids for being there with me and for their support and Bell who did a fantastic job in the pits, helping us out with food and support."
This year's Roof enjoyed television coverage and attracted almost 5000 spectators.

Application mystery for Inner Secrets

2011-11-22T05:32:00.001-08:00

Music group Inner Secrets wants answers from both Endumeni and Umzinyathi Municipalities concerning an envelope in which was their Grant In Aid application.
Group leader, Mo Karim, said: "In September we sent our application to Endumeni only to discover later that no one there knew where our application form was."
He said that in 2009 and 2010 they experienced the same situation at Umzinyathi Municipality.
Asked about the allegations, Mayor's secretary, Nonki Dlamini, said 'we did receive the Inner Secrets application and we processed it accordingly.’
"We have asked them to come to our office with copies of the application so we can find out from the registry office about their application."
The Umzinyathi Municipality Communications Manager,Vusi Mdletshe was at a meeting when the Courier contacted his office.
It is hoped that more information will be forthcoming

The old Boswell lady lives again

2011-11-22T05:30:00.001-08:00

2011 will go down as the year Dundee shook off its shabby shackles with extensive renovations in the central business district and beyond.
Following the sale of the Showgrounds - which caused much angst that has now fallen silent - the dilapidated show hall has been given a facelift that makes it almost unrecognisable.
The work went on despite the detour through the grounds, prompted by more upgrading work for the town: the much needed rehabilitation of Karellandman Street which is now entering phase two of the project.
On a grander scale, the expansion to Charlie’s SuperSpar - which will see parking for around 80 vehicles - has transformed what was previously a rundown part of town.
Gone are some of the eye-sore buildings on Gladstone Street with the Enterprise Building now boasting a new coat of brown paint.
The historic Boswell's Building on the corner of Gladstone and Beaconsfield Streets - which was looking decidedly scruffy, is also enjoying a new lease on life.
Boswell's, as it is fondly known, is a declared national monument and has been part of the town's history since 1898 when it was built as the second Masonic Lodge in Dundee.
Pam McFadden, Talana Museum curator, said the upper floor of the building was used as the Lodge and the lower level - the hall - for entertainment. Masonic symbols were plastered into the walls of the upper floor and the first Masonic meeting was held there on May 18 1899.
During the Anglo Boer War (1899-1902), when Dundee was occupied by Boer forces and renamed Meyersdorp, it served as a storage warehouse for looted furniture. With the return of the British troops and Mr Birkett, the Town Clerk (not Municipal Manager), in mid May 1900, efforts were made to motivate the returning local population to claim their property in storage in the building.

Fascinating signs

"One of the most fascinating signs to be fixed to the front door was to request people to 'identify and remove their belongings especially as there are 200 identical iron bedsteads in the building."
During 1901/1902, the 'treason trials' of the Natal rebels were held in this building.
Boswell’s was also the first theatre and cinema north of Durban and is now the last pre-Boer war theatre building lest in the Province.
The Masons sold their building in 1929 (they moved to the new Masonic Hall adjacent to Boswell’s) to Mr Atwell who used it as his photographic studio. He brought some amazing picture shows to Dundee.
Pam says the hall seated 700 people - dances, theatre productions and ci-nema shows were all held in the hall.
Remarkably, the first George Bernard Shaw play produced in Africa went on stage at Boswell’s.
The headmaster of Dundee High School, John Willie Hudson, was well known in the 1930s for his Gilbert and Sullivan productions performed on the ground floor of the hall.
"The name Boswell’s derives from its purchase by Ralph Boswell Robertson, M.P. in 1935 who used the building as a grocery store. His wife, Olive, became the first woman on the Dundee Town Council.
For many years the building was a grocery and haberdashery store and then in the early 1960s, an outlet for Cashmart Wholesalers.
In 1984/85 it was temporarily used by First National Bank while their building was being renovated. Since then it has been used as a vegetable market and now a church.
With the SuperSpar expansions going ahead at apace, Boswell’s has been restored to its former glory and the building will surely continue to be a landmark in the town.

Correctional Services mix excellence and fun

2011-11-22T05:24:00.001-08:00

The Golfwise programme co-ordinators from Glencoe, Gert Roos, Gerrie Marais, Hendrie and Freddie McHattie received their Masibamisane Award from BB Mchunu (Glencoe Area Commissioner), M Mthembu (Waterval Area Commissioner) and John Patrick Baxter (Acting Deputy Regional Commissioner).

You have to admire Correctional Services. They know how to mix-it.
If it is not Dale Hayes and other golfing big shots teaching offenders (great word, hey?) the great game, then they are holding excellence awards that dish up a combination of a church service, a motivational workshop and a party courtesy of local recording band, Inner Secrets.
With the Glencoe Town Hall decorated in rich orange and black, those who arrived for the awards last Thursday evening were not even bothered or surprised that the programme started an hour late.
The programme directors, M Madonsela and N Gasa, were both humorous and brief (thank goodness) and kept those who gathered for the Glencoe Management Area Department of Correctional Services Excellence Awards well entertained.
Guests represented Correctional facilities from Glencoe, Dundee, Pomeroy, Greytown, Kranskop, Estcourt, Bergville and Ladysmith.
There was excitement in the air as the nominees sat uneasily on their chairs waiting for the certificates to be handed out.
But first they were addressed by BB Mchunu, Glencoe Area Commissioner, who spoke about the three types of people one finds in the work place: the negative types, the lukewarm ones and the positive types.
Those who leave an indelible mark and those who just leave a stain.
Mr Mchunu believes excellence awards help instil pride and a work ethic among employees.

The awards cover every facet of life as a Correctional Services worker: public safety (keeping offenders in safe custody etc.), good governance, teamwork (achievements and consistency), Batho Pele (people first), Ubunthu (caring and sharing) and more.
Mr Mchunu's excellent speech was followed by an energetic Inner Secrets version of 'Gimme hope Joanna' (I was hoping for Jailhouse Rock) with Alberto and the boys in fine form on the stage.
Guest speaker Rev JT Dlamini delivered a dynamite of a motivational speech - sort of a Billy Graham meets Dale Carnegie soliloquy.
Then it was time for the Correctional Services Oscars: Estcourt Correctional Services scooped the most - Good Governance, Batho Pele, Correctional Services Centre of the Year and a Masibamisane and Ubuntu Award.
Special awards went to Kranskop while Ladysmith also featured.Glencoe Prison was pleased to receive a Masibamisane Award for the Golfwise Programme (featuring Dale Hayes), the maintenance award (received by Ricardo Govender) while stalwart Marie Papazaharias also received an Ubuntua award.
Then it was over to Inner Secrets who should surely also receive some kind of musical excellence award?

Mixed Masala with the Token Indian

2011-11-22T05:20:00.005-08:00

Reality and game shows have captured the hearts and minds of many South Africans over the years.
Many have tried to replicate much loved international shows while trying to add some South African flair to it.
From the Weakest Link to Big Brother to Survivor, these shows have given South Africans the chance to prove that they can match up to their British and American counterparts. Recently ‘Come Dine With Me South Africa’ enthralled the nation, giving food fanatics a chance to show off their culinary skills. One episode featured the Indian 'fashionista' from Johannesburg, Drisha Nair.
Finally there was light at the end of the tunnel, an Indian going to make us proud, going to fly the flag high for all Indians and then she spoke…
The first reaction was 'ok, where is the white girl hiding?' and then it hit you. Drisha was just another Johannesburg Indian.
While Cape Town Indians don't know they are Indian, Indians from Joburg selectively forget it. The biggest difference between the two is the dreaded 'twang'. Even Indians who move to Joburg for studies or other reasons develop the 'twang' after a few months there. There are a few exceptions however.
Watching the show reminded me of a time when I studied in the Joburg area (I didn't come back with a twang though). As a privileged bunch of cadets we stayed in Muldersdrift at the Aloe Ridge Hotel and Nature Reserve. Sadly no one told us before hand that Indian was an endangered species in these parts and so fellow cadet Ashley Lechman and I were the only two Indians.
Staying in a hotel, located in a nature reserve also cut short our escapades into the real world but on those few occasions we only had one thing in mind: to find other Indians.
This proved to be a fruitless expedition, as Muldersdrift didn't seem to have any Indians, neither did Soweto, Maropeng or the Sterkfontein Caves (there was a theory that they had all gone into hibernation). Our search finally ended on a pleasantly warm day when we were at the local Spar, sitting in the parking lot, taking in all the glances we were getting from the non-Indians. It was like being on display - all the pointing and whispering. You would expect to see a few cameras as well. It was while sitting there that we noticed her. Our first Indian encounter. Standing at the other end of the parking lot, all we could see was her face through the window of the vehicle of the driver she was talking to.
There was no mistaking that she was an Indian. It was only when the vehicle pulled away that the reality of the situation hit us. This Indian lady wasn't making friendly conversation with the driver of the vehicle, she was begging. The only Indian we saw was poor and resorted to begging to survive. Needless to say that we didn't go looking for Indians after that. Can you imagine what they live like?

Mixed Masala with the Token Indian

2011-11-22T05:20:00.004-08:00

Mixed Masala with the Token Indian

2011-11-22T05:20:00.003-08:00

Mixed Masala with the Token Indian

2011-11-22T05:20:00.002-08:00

Mo reasons not to shave

2011-11-22T05:20:00.001-08:00

It's a Mo'mentus month for men's health in South Africa, it is Movember.
In true Movember fashion, seven Mo Bros have risen to the challenge of growing fantastic facial hair for a good cause.
Teachers, Henk Davel, Daniel Lippke, Warren Boggs, Johann Nortje, Cameron Fraser, Kyle Kelbrick and Alan Devereux took up the challenge last year and after a great response have decided to do it once again.
The 'Mo Bros' all have their own styles of Mo and are hoping to raise funds at the Shaveathon at the end of the month before they shave off their precious manly moustaches.
Dundee High Principal, Rudi Haschke may not be willing to part with his beard and Mo but has still supported his teachers in their show of good will.
Having started in Australia eight years ago, Movember has grown into a global annual moustache growing campaign throughout the month of November to raise vital funds and awareness for Men's Health issues
Movember is changing the face of men's health around the globe.
Mo Bros start the month with a clean-shaven face and for the rest of Movember, groom, trim and wax their way into the annals of fine moustachery. Supporting them during the whole month are the Mo Sistas who act as ambassadors and help spread the word while showing their support.
The charity initiative aims to raise money and awareness for men's health, specifically prostate and testicular cancer.
All funds raised during the month will go directly to CANSA's men's health programmes for prostate and testicular cancers.

Imfundo iyisikhiye esivula amasango empilo

2011-11-22T05:18:00.000-08:00

Abafundi esikoleni eMakhemfundo banikezwe ulwazi ukuze baphumelelise amaphupho abo emva kokuphothula izifundo zabo zikametekuletsheni
Lomcimbi obuwaziwa ngokuthi ‘Career Dress Up Day’, ubuhlelelwe abafundi bakwa (grade 7).
Kulomcimbi obuse Glencoe ehholo yesikole eSithembile kufakazeleke isisho esithi ‘libunjwa liseva’.
Omunye wabafundi , uSandiso Mavimbela owenza ibanga lesithupha ‘ugeqe amagula’ enkulumweni yakhe ayethule mayelana nobungozi bezidakamizwa kuhlanganisa notshwala.
"Imfundo iyisibani esikhanya njalo empilweni, le- career guidance eyenzelwe labafundi, izobasiza futhi ibavule amehlo ikusasa labo lonke" kusho uNkk PM Mgubane uthishanhloko wesikole onanelwe ngu Mnuz TipTop Shelembe onguthisha kulesisikole othe lelithuba lifike ngesikhathi esifanele lapho labafundi sekufanele bazikhethele ikusasa labo.
Lo mcimbi ubugqugquzelwe uMnyango weZemfundo kanti sewuzohlala wenziwa minyaka yonke.
Kulomcimbi izihambeli zijatshuliswe ngendlamu, umculo kanye nemidlalo yeshashalazi.
Abafundi kanye nothisha babonga kakhulu kwi -Courier Newspaper, Dept of Social Development (Glencoe)
,Endumeni Traffic Depertment,Glencoe Police Station, Dundee Correctional Services, Glencoe Library, Dept of Education, Endumeni Fire Fighting Department kanye nabobonke abenze lo mcimbi waba yimpumelelo.

Superman seeks Julius

2011-11-15T21:41:00.001-08:00

Startled shoppers in Dundee watched a man dressed in a Superman T-shirt and cape jump on car bonnets and throw shopping trolleys around as he shouted ‘I am looking for Julius Malema’.
It was closing time on Wednesday at a local supermarket when the man – who wore short pants and no shoes – started his tirade.
Management called the police but by this stage ‘Superman’ was outside the shop where he jumped from car to car and but came to a stop against a truck.
Police arrived and escorted him to the police station which is barely 300 metres from the supermarket.
He was put in a police van where he told a Courier journalist that he ‘is Superman from the clouds sent by a guru in India to kill someone whose name starts with the letter J’.
Prompted as to who this person was, he replied ‘Julius Malema – this is my mission to kill him’.
He was taken to the Dundee Hospital to be sedated and later to Madadeni Hospital.

Paying tribute

2011-11-15T05:37:00.000-08:00

Mark and Cheryl Elliott were two of many who attended Friday’s (11/11/11) Remembrance Day Parade hosted by the Moths. The Dundee Diehards also added to the occasion where wreaths were also laid in memory of those who died fighting for their country. See next week for more on this solemn occasion.

Councli briefs

2011-11-15T05:36:00.003-08:00

Branching out
A Ward 2 subcommittee, tasked with the beautifying of the town, is planning to plant indigenous trees including Celtis Afrikaner (white stinkwood trees). The town entrances have been prioritised. Places, like in Victoria Street, where trees fell down, are also being considered.

Road construction
The first phase of the Karel Landman Street reconstruction is coming to an end.
A traffic island is going to be built adjacent to Tristar, with some horticultural adjustments planned to improve the aesthetics.

R2,2 million Glencoe road boost
Glencoe residents will be pleased to know that R2,2 million has been set aside for road improvements in the town.
This will start in January and residents have been asked to come forward to identify roads 'to be prioritised'.
There was also a concern that rubbish was clogging stormwater drains and runoffs.
The Residents' Association requested that the Municipal offices and streets be made 'friendly for the disabled'.

Sewage dumped near river
A substantial amount of effluent has been dumped about 70 metres from the Buffalo River in the Rorke's Drift area, farmer Herman de Wet reported
The sewage was left there allegedly by a contractor employed by the Education Department to collect sewage from schools in the area.
Umzinyathi District's environmental officers have been informed of this and the dumping is being investigated.

No news on Councillors who owe
The Residents' Association claimed there has been no feedback about councillors' municipal arrears.
The CFO, Ian Grisdale, was in Cape Town and no report had been issued so far.
However, it is understood that Mr Grisdale has informed the Speaker of the Council of the query.
At least one Councillor is believed to owe more than R30 000 in service charge arrears and has made no attempt to pay back.
The Residents’ Association mentioned that their enquiries about the costs of the recent imbizo (that was cancelled but for which a consultant still received around R60 000) had not been answered, and this will be addressed to the Council via Afriforum.

Saving makes powerful sense

2011-11-15T05:36:00.001-08:00

By carefully monitoring your pre-paid electricity transactions you can save money.
Following numerous queries by readers over 'varying' prices of electricity when purchasing from vendors, the Courier contacted Municipal Financial Manager, Ian Grisdale. Readers have complained that depending on what time of the month they purchase electricity, the number of kilowatt-hours received for the same amount of money differs.
This is because of the new step tariffs introduced by the Municipality on July 1.
"If you buy 0-50 kilowatt hours you pay 65 cents a unit.
" The next step is from 51-350 kilowatt hours, which are charged at 80 cents. Should you go over this into the 351 to 600-kilowatt hour bracket, the tariff is R1 per unit and anything over 600 kilowatt-hours is charged at R1,16 per unit.
"From this consumers should try and save electricity by switching off unnecessary lights and/or appliances by ensuring that their monthly consumption does not exceed the next step tariff - which will see them paying more for less.
"If you can stretch your consumption until the first of the month - when everyone starts on 0 again - you will certainly see a saving." Mr Grisdale said he had also received comments from consumers who thought the pre-paid vendors were at fault.
"Not all - it all depends on how many kilowatts of power your household has consumed - this will determine in what tariff range you fall."
Any further queries can be directed to the Municipal Finance Department tel 034 21 22121.

Imvunulo yesintu kwamukelwa uMongameli eNquthu

2011-11-15T05:35:00.003-08:00

UMongameli ufike ngendiza enophephela emhlane ukuzothamela iphalamende ebelihlezi ezinkundleni zemidlalo eNquthu.Emva kokuba umphakathi ‘ugeqe amagula’ ubika izinkinga zawo emva kweminyaka engu 17 kwavotelwa uhulumeni omusha. Lapho kugqame kakhulu ukuthi intuthuko into engabonwa eNquthu ikakhulukazi ezindaweni ezingaphandle kwedolobha.UMongameli ube esethembisa umphakathi intuthuko wase esho nokuthi kunemali uhulumeni ayishiyile yokuthuthukisa umphakathi. Kube sekubalwa ezinye zezindawo okumele zifakwe ugesi kulungiswe nemigwaqo ngo 2011-2012 esho ukuthi uhla lude ngeke aluqede. UMongameli uthembise ukuthi bazobambisana nohulumeni omkhulu kanye nomaspala ukuqinisekisisa ukuthi izidingo zomphakathi ziyafezeka.
Ube eseveza intuthuko ezokwenzeka eNquthu. Amanzi, izindlu, umtholampilo, intilasipoti yokuhamba izingane uma ziya esikoleni, kanye nokuvuselelwa kwendawo yokuhlala abantwana abayizintandane i Princess Mkabayi. Lendawo izovuselelwa ngemali engu R6 million. USihlalo we (NC0P) uMnuz Mahlanga naye uhlale emazwini ka Mongameli egcizelela ngokulethwa kwe Ntuthuko eNquthu.UMnuz. Mahlangu ube esegcizelela ukuthi bazophinde babuye emvakwezinyanga ezingu 12 bezobheka ukuthi kungabe kusahamba njengoba beshilo yini.
Ube esekhala kakhulu ngezinto ezingafanele ezichithwa isibhedlela kwi (Dumping site) ube esenxenxa ukuthi kumele ivalwe ,kuvulwe enye lapho isibhedlela esingezukuvumeleka ukuchithakhona. Udokotela Mkhize yena ukuvumile ukuthi uMzinyathi ungezinye zezindawo ezintulayo.Wasethembisa ukuletha intuthuko.

Parting Shot: Sharing means good manners too

2011-11-15T05:35:00.001-08:00

President Jacob Zuma spoke passionately about 'the African way of life of sharing and caring' to make a better life for all South Africans when he addressed the National Council of Provinces (NCOP) session in Nquthu on Friday.
No one can doubt the President's sincerity or his sentiment. The NCOP brought hundreds of delegates, security officials, hangers-onners and media into town.
Every accommodation place between here, Vryheid and Newcastle enjoyed a mini boom thanks to the huge white marquee put up in the Nquthu stadium for the five day sitting.
It also brought with it bad manners and inconsiderate behaviour. From little prima donnas who were suddenly allergic to carpets and had to have another room (strangely enough the marquee where she and many others sat for eight hours a day is beautifully decorated with wall to wall turquoise carpeting) to those who demanded complicated meals at short notice - meals which they probably never eat at home.
Then of course there are the blue light brigades. For those whose brief it is to seek a better life for all, it meant zilch to inconvenience motorists returning from Vryheid on Thursday afternoon. There are stop/go signs in operation on the route but the message was sent ahead to those controlling the signs that the entire road must be blocked to allow the 'better life brigade and their blue lights' to charge along without stopping.
This meant a one-and-a-half hour wait for many motorists caught up in this arrogance.
And then there was the convoy that rushed over to see Talana Museum - great - tourists. But why 14 cars and only two delegates sitting in a mini bus?
And what about the convoy that blocked Victoria Street on Tuesday afternoon - crawling along at 40km/h during Dundee's 'rush hour'? It meant little in their important lives that some people just may have to go and see the doctors' rooms at that time/
And then there was the Wednesday convoy. Although uThukela Water had blocked the entire road to fix a burst pipe at the Tatham Street traffic circle, officialdom still insisted on driving through the barriers.
It was only when it was pointed out that yes, you can drive through but your fancy ML6s are going to fall into a donga that they relented and grumpily took the alternative route like the rest of us mere mortals.
And then there was the usual crackling tension between the media brigade and the security officials at the NCOP sitting. It has been said that the most dangerous thing in the world is a little person with a little power. This was brought to the fore as black suited heavies with funny little things plugged into their ears shunted the media corps around from one place to another.
They walked in front of cameras, pushed and shoved - not realising that every photographer/cameraman there would in any case get the shot they wanted despite the abuse.
At one point a 'heavy' threatened to remove a photographer 'who was becoming a security risk'. Quite absurd when one considers that the best speech in the world is about as meaningless as hot ice should there be no one there to report on said speech.
However, the Ass of the Week award goes to the MEC who demanded that a manager at a local restaurant purchase a tablecloth as she does not eat off a tablemat. Now, if that is not sharing and caring -what is?

220 by geslaagde BKB Boeredag

2011-11-15T05:33:00.003-08:00

Stoffel Mouton (voornemende Bestuurder en Eienaar van Kirton Afslaers), Thys Odendaal (Voorsitter van Vryheid Sakekamer en boer), Dr. Nelis Moll (boer van Vryheid) en Walter Pretorius (waarnemende Takbestuurder BKBLouwid KZN)

'n Baie geslaagde BKB/BKBLouwid KZN boeredag is aangebied op Donderdag, 3 November te Battlefields Country Lodge.
Die dag is bygewoon deur ongeveer 220 persone van oor die hele Noord-KZN gebied.
Die program wat aangebied is, het ingesluit 'n damesprogram aangebied deur bekende aktrise en motiveringspreker, Jani du Plessis met die tema "Kopkos vir die boer se vrou" en is baie positief ontvang deur die dames. Bettie de Wet was die gasvrou vir die oggend.
Die oggend is op gepaste wyse geopen deur Herman de Wet, voorsitter van Dundee Boereunie en is gefasiliteer deur Jan Mostert, afslaer BKBLouwid. Die sprekers vir die dag was van uitstaande gehalte en het baie insiggewende en relefante inligting meegedeel.
Herman de Wet noem dat BKB gegroei het van 'n hoofsaaklike wol maatskappy tot die tans grootste lewende hawe- en wolmaatskappy in die land met ook onder andere afdelings soos handel, graan verhandeling, eiendomme en finansiering. Sy boodskap is dat ons positief moet wees en altyd dink aan ons voorregte. Hy sê verder dat as kos nie vir jou lekker is nie, jy daaraan moet dink dat daar mense is wat nie kos het nie, of as jy nuwe skoene begeer, onthou dat daar mense is sonder voete.
Hy maan verder om nooit op te hou droom nie. Oor die grondgeskille lig hy boere in dat dit al 'n probleem was reeds 593 jaar voor Christus. Herman brei verder uit oor die kriteria vir 'n goeie afslaersbesigheid en sê dat BKBLouwid daaraan voldoen.

Statistieke en voorspellings

Ernst Janovsky, bekende landbou ekonoom van Absa, boei die boere met statistieke en voorspellings. Hy noem dat die landbou omgewing tans floreer. Hy maan boere tot produktiwiteit, verhoging van inkomste en verlaging van uitgawes. Meer vleis per hektaar moet geproduseer word.
Verder motiveer hy die boer om by te bly met die nuutste tegnologie, mark- en telingsinligting. Hy raai boere aan om grond te koop aangesien grond elke jaar met tussen 10 en 12% styg. Dit is vir hom 'n bekommernis dat boere van 1975 af verminder het van 120 000 tot 40 000 tans en hy voorspel dat dit binne 'n paar jaar na 15 000 boere gaan daal.
Dit is die gevolg van die beginsel van ekonomie van skaal waar groter boere groter word en kleiner boere verdwyn. Hy voorspel dat mielies, bees- en skaapvleispryse gaan verstewig en dat wol tans baie duur is.
Hierna het Wolf Edmayr, besturende direkteur van BKB, 'n kort, kragtige toespraak gehou. Hy sê dat BKB daar is om te bly. Hulle neem nie eienaarskap aan nie en opponeer dus nie.
Die boer bly die eienaar tot die hamer val, BKB hanteer dus net die boer se produk namens hom en beding ook namens hom om dan net 'n persentasie van die verkope te kry. Hy noem dat hul voort sal gaan met hul kreatitwiteit en vennote daar buite soek soos Absa.
Andre du Toit, hoofbestuurder BKB Lewende hawe en Eindomme begin met 'n baie interessante video wat BKB se doen en late pragtig vertoon. Hy noem dat daar baie negatiewes is. Diefstal, predatore, dieresiektes en boonop "Meatfree Mondays" wat teen die vleisbedryf baklei. Gelukkig is daar ook positiewe dinge soos dat boere in 'n georganiseerde landbouomgewing kan funksioneer.
Hy doen 'n beroep op boere om die RPO te ondersteun. Boere is gelukkig in 'n bedryf waar hulle nie genoeg kan produseer nie. Daar is 'n jaar op jaar groei in die prysinflasie van 71%. Hy noem dat pryse op BKB veilings die afgelope jaar met 23% op grootvee en 48% op kleinvee gestyg het.
Die bestuurder, marklinligting, BKB Grainco Harry Robberts het gepraat oor die benarde ekonomiese toestand waarin Europese lande veral Griekeland hul bevind.

Mielievoorrade

Hy voorspel dat die rand na R7 vlakke toe sal beweeg. Mielievoorrade in die wêreld is die laagste sedert 1973 en hy sê dat dit 'n indikasie is van voortdurende goeie mieliepryse. Hy voorspel verder dat geelmielie pryse opwaarts beweeg en pryse van tussen R2 300 en R2 600 verwag kan word teen Maart 2012.
Hy beveel aan dat meer mielies geplant moet word omdat dit meer ekonomies is as sojabone en daar ook nie 'n tekort aan sojabone op die oomblik is nie. Hy noem dat die bevolking steeds groei en dat die 7 biljoenste mens op aarde die week gebore is. 'n Skyfievertoning dui die wêreldbevolking per land aan.
Cobus Oberholster, hoofbestuurder BKB Agrifin volg. Hy bring onder die aandag dat landbouskuld die afgelope 10 jaar gegroei het van R30 biljoen tot R75 biljoen.
Die rolspelers in landbou finansiering het verander, Land Bank, op 'n tyd die grootste landboufinansierder word nou kleiner en handelsbanke neem die rol oor. Hy bespreek regulasies vir finansiering soos bv. FICA, RICA ens. Hy brei uit oor die nuwe filiaal van BKB, naamlik BKB Agrifin. Verder verwys hy na 'n winsgewende voedselketting, dat die kliënt integriteit moet hê en dat daar volhoubare finansieringskapitaal moet wees. Met ABSA is 'n strategiese ooreenkoms aangegaan. "ABSA gee die geld en ons, BKB is die voetspoor" Hy noem pertinent dat die verhouding met ABSA vermelding verdien omdat alhoewel BKB in vennootskap is met ABSA, BKB die verhouding met sy kliënt behou, steeds die agentrol speel en boonop verwissel die kliënt nie van bank nie. Kenny Robinson doen die bedankings vir 'n baie interessante dag en sluit die verrigtinge af.
Die dames sluit aan by die mans en geniet 'n heerlike ete. Almal is dit eens dat dit 'n uiters geslaagde en suksesvolle dag was.
n See next week’s Courier and the November AgriEcho for more photographs of this event.

Giving the power to Go Green

2011-11-15T05:33:00.001-08:00

Helping the earth 'one globe at a time', Solatricity are hoping to make their mark in Northern KwaZulu-Natal.
The Pretoria based company recently held a conference at Talana Museum in Dundee to discuss the many ways locals could Go Green and help reduce their carbon footprint. "You don't have to make big changes all at once. You can start one globe at a time," said Solatricity's Janet Pieters. Sadly many could not attend the conference but that did not stop Solatricity from getting their message across.
They went to dairy farms, abattoirs and farmers in the areas showing them just how many ways they were wasting electricity and how much they could be saving. A solution driven company, Solatricity is always looking at new ways to save and reduce people's dependency on electricity by finding alternatives for power.
Not only do they help people Go Green but by doing so they help people lower their electricity bills. From water conservation, to solar water heating to converting sun power to household electricity, there are numerous ways that they can help.
Even museum curator, Pam McFadden was impressed with the methods of conservation and had her own tips for residents to cut down on electricity usage.
From pulling out plugs not in use from the sockets, to not leaving the TV on standby and investing in a geyser blanket, Ms McFadden shared her expertise.
Solatricity are trying to spread this message to as many as possible and get more people to Go Green.
"We want to save the earth and cut away our carbon footprint. There will be less pressure on sub stations and less blackouts," said Joggie Pieters, Technical Manager of Solatricity."
In January, Solatricity aims to open a store in Dundee run by local lass, Mariska Kruger. With a base in Northern KwaZulu-Natal, the company will be able to help a whole sector of people.
Getting solar powered devices into the rural areas is a very exciting prospect for the Joggie.
"In the rural areas where there is no power at all it will be a great way to improve their lives and give them a better lifestyle."
An official from the Department of Environmental Affairs, who attended the conference, is also excited about the prospect and hopes to get some sort of power to these areas in the near future. Mariska's mother Magda went out with the company to the farms and the abattoir and has seen the need for greener measures in the area.
"It's a wonderful concept. The people are really hungry for it in this area," Mrs Kruger said. "The sun is free and it is there so why not use it," she added. With many future generations still to use the earth, one of the companies slogans sums up their intentions perfectly.
"We did not inherit the earth, but only borrowed it from our children's future...Think Green."

BMX army buzzing

2011-11-15T05:32:00.001-08:00

The local BMX race team, Grant’s Army, has had an eventful year of racing at both national and international events. At the recent South African BMX awards ceremony at Emperors Palace, Johannesburg the team was duly commended for their achievements.
Justin Dekker was awarded the SA.5 title in the 12 Boys expert class.
Grant Dekker was awarded the SA.1 title in the 45 and over cruiser class as well as the SA.4 title in the 25 and over 20inch class against riders twenty years younger than him. He was also placed on the SA squad for next year.
Local import, elite rider Christopher Austin, had a rather disappointing year after a crash forced him to ride the UCI World Supercross Cup with a broken hand.
"With the team's elite now fully focused on the 2012 World Championships in Birmingham England, and the teams two development riders, Njabulo Ngobese and Johannes Dlamini focused on their first national series," said mentor, Grant Dekker. "The two years of pressure on council seems to be showing results as a new BMX facility in Dundee is in debate to be constructed. Hopefully the sport will grow in our little town upon construction of this facility."

A wise move for these inmates

2011-11-15T05:31:00.001-08:00

South African golfing legend Dale Hayes and his wife, Allison, again presided at the Golfwise programme at the Glencoe Programme.
This programme is now in its sixth successive year, with five inmates who graduated on November 11, 2011. This was a day that would have kept numerologists busy, as Dale pinned the tee-off for the Pro Am down to 11 minutes past eleven o'clock, on November 11th, 2011.
In some respects this golf day could also have been called the Dale Hayes-Gerrie Marais Remembrance Day Classic 2011, as these two individuals have been actively involved in the development of this offender rehabilitation project since its inception here six years ago.
The same applies for the invaluable input over the last six years by Gert Roos, the McHattie brothers, Hendry and Fred, various members of the Correctional Services command corps in Glencoe Management Area that gave the Golfwise their blessing, and played in it, too, and the indomitable Eunice and David Sibiya, who again participated on the course
The difference was that this year the inmates proved good enough to play in a nine hole Pro Am with golfing pros invited to participate. Other notables that took part this year, were Dennis Bruyns, a former CEO of the South African Professional Golf Association, Ivano Ficalbi, the current CEO of the PGA, Chris Sherwell, Kenneth Dube, Graham Tregear, Elsabe Hefer Adam Hayes and Tracy Marais from the PGA. She and Alison were the powers behind the throne that got everything in order when the players came off the course.
Jabulani Sibisi, Mthokolisi Kheswa, Vusi Nxele, Zethu Zuma and Mondli Vilikazi gave all the pros a good day for their money on the nine holes, and the team of Dennis Bruyns walked away with the winning prize. Pierre Booysen won the prize for the longest drive. Dale, Gerrie Marais and Geoff Johnson and their team won the prize for the Longest Day!
The Glencoe course is looking better every year, and will soon be viable competition for Dundee Country Club. Some golf pros were impressed with the condition of the greens and fairways, and called it "more manicured" than before. The day ended with the presentation of the inmates' certificates ceremony.
The weekend concluded with a battlefield tour to Isandwana, Rorke's Drift and Blood River with the Courier's Johann Hamman the next day.

NCOP hears grumbles

2011-11-08T03:08:00.000-08:00

There was great excitement in Nquthu on Monday when the National Council of Provinces, NCOP, opened their sitting for a week-long session.
As part of the Taking Parliament to the People campaign, local people were given a chance to ask the 54 delegates and Ministers from the National Cabinet and KZN Legislature questions - most of these concerned poor drinking water, shoddy housing (or the lack of it) and the condition of the roads in the area. A report on the public hearings will be forwarded to President Zuma who will address the sitting on Friday.
The NCOP sitting has meant a huge boost for the area with most accommodation establishments booked out.
NCOP Chairman, Mninwa Mahlangu was welcomed to Nquthu by KZN Premier, Dr Zweli Mkhize and Umzinyathi District Municipal Deputy Mayor, F Mkhize. See page 6.

Bush pig meets a bloody end

2011-11-08T03:07:00.000-08:00

A bush pig's sojourn into urban Dundee had a bloody end last Wednesday. Chased by a group of people - some following in what appeared to be a State vehicle - the terrified animal sped down McKenzie Street.
Earlier, it had been seen in the communal vegetable garden on Tandy Street before being shooed away.
Residents on McKenzie and Ryley Streets said the bush pig seemed to be in a 'blind panic' and SPCA Inspector Junaid Ayob said he had received a report that it had injured a dog on Ryley Street.
Eventually, the bush pig ran into the Hospital grounds and made it to the cemetery before it was cornered by a group of men who threw bricks at it.
When the animal went down, its throat was cut and the group was keen to load it up in a wheelbarrow and put it in the cooking pot.
By this stage Mr Ayob and Kwazulu-Natal Wildlife honorary officer Henry Bugden were on the scene trying to persuade the group to give up the dead animal.
The men were, however, having none of it. One claimed that his hand had been bitten by the bush pig and as they had killed it, wanting to eat it.
The police were called in but by the time a patrol van arrived, the dead animal was already half way to Sibongile in a wheelbarrow.
More discussion followed and with the scene threatening to turn nasty it was decided to let the animal continue its journey in the wheelbarrow.

Ezemvelo KZN Wildlife responds

Lynne Ruddle, Ezemvelo KZN Wildlife Officer in the area, said that in terms of the Nature Conservation Act and Ordinance, bush pigs are classified as "Unprotected Wildlife", this means that no permit is required to hunt a bush pig during the day.
"However, the manner in which the animal was allegedly pursued - some of whom were allegedly travelling in a State car - and the manner in which the animal was stoned and killed in public view is totally unacceptable.
"In addition any person guilty of obstructing an Ezemvelo KZN Wildlife Officer or Honorary Officer is liable on conviction to a fine.
"Therefore the person's in question were illegal in the manner that they threatened the Ezemvelo KZN Wildlife Honorary Officer in their attempt to confiscate the animal in question.
" In future members of the public must be aware that any incidents involving wildlife or the environment will not be tolerated and charges will be laid against the perpetrators.
"In general wild animals that have left their natural habitat and show no fear of humans may be suffering from a disease that can potentially be lethal to humans, such as rabies, etc. "In such cases, relevant officials should be contacted to investigate the situation," Mrs Ruddle concluded.