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Diver’s family demands answers

Bianca du Plessis
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Diver’s family demands answers

A Hawston diver was shot and killed in Buffels Bay, Cape Point Nature Reserve last week.

The family is demanding justice, fearing the circumstances surrounding his death will never be fully investigated.

According to an eyewitness, a group of divers was waiting for a boat to take them back to Hout Bay when they noticed reserve rangers pointing firearms at them and threatening to shoot. The divers reportedly responded by rolling rocks down the hill to prevent the rangers from reaching them.

Diver Roger ‘Church’ van der Westhuizen, who was wounded and underwent emergency surgery last week, said he was shot when he ran towards Duncan Hanekom, who was shot and killed. He insisted the situation had been calm at the time.

“Nobody was throwing stones at that point. I just felt a bullet hitting me,” he recalled.

Van der Westhuizen’s mother, Eva Witbooi, fears the incident will be swept under the rug and that her family will never see justice.

“He was shot by the police years ago, but nothing ever came of it because the bullet allegedly went missing. I don’t know what’s going to happen to us now because he is the only breadwinner for his four kids and me,” she said.

Commander of the provincial police communications department, Lieutenant Colonel FC van Wyk, confirmed that Simon’s Town SAPS was investigating charges of murder and attempted murder.

“Three firearms belonging to the park rangers were taken in as exhibits and for further processing. The investigation continues. Seven suspects were arrested for the illegal possession of abalone,” he said.

Relatives of one of the suspects said an attempted murder charge was added to the charge sheet shortly before the men appeared in court last week. They are expected to apply for bail on Friday.

“How can they be charged with attempted murder if they were only throwing stones? And how is it that live rounds were fired at them if the officers’ lives were not in imminent danger? I think the attempted murder charge is just a ruse to take the heat off the officers,” one relative alleged."

Shahieda Hanekom, the deceased’s cousin, said the family was devastated by his death.

“He just went to earn a living for his family. Now his 13-year-old son has to grow up without a father.”

Hawston resident Isaac Claasen said the priority was to secure justice for the families and prevent a repeat of the unrest following the death of Steven ‘Sai’ Figaji in 2012. At the time, angry residents blocked the R43 with burning tyres after an altercation between authorities and divers.

“People are angry because it’s not the first time a life was lost as a result of alleged law-enforcement brutality,” he said.

Claasen acknowledged that poaching was a crime but said it had become a means of survival for many in a community plagued by unemployment and desperate to provide for their families.

Gentlemen’s evening excludes women

The Village News
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Perhaps Hermanus High could enlighten me as to why the school hosts an annual ‘Gentlemen’s Evening’.

A recent event featured Matthew Pearce and Steven Kitshoff, and I was sorry that, being a woman, the event wasn’t open to me.

I spend my weekends watching the Lions, Bulls, Stormers and Sharks in action, as well as the Springboks whenever they take the field. I am familiar with the game, its laws (it was Hugh Bladen who enlightened me, many years ago, that rugby has laws – not rules), and I can hold my own when discussing the finer points of a match with men.

I am, of course, not unique in this respect. Many women know rugby, follow the game and have informed, insightful opinions to contribute to discussions. Their understanding of the sport is no less valuable than that of their male counterparts.

I appreciate that there may be a tradition behind the event, and that those who attend enjoy the opportunity to socialise in a men-only environment. However, traditions deserve to be examined from time to time, particularly when they risk perpetuating the very divisions society is striving to overcome.

At a time when discrimination and equality are very much in the public consciousness, I cannot help questioning the message such an event sends. A school should surely be a place where inclusion, respect and equal opportunity are encouraged and demonstrated, not principles discussed in theory but not always reflected in practice.

I am not suggesting that men should never have an opportunity to gather on their own. Rather, I question why an event hosted by a school should exclude women simply because of their sex, particularly when the subject matter is one that women understand, enjoy and can discuss with equal enthusiasm.

FROM: Anne – Westcliff

Finding healing in stillness

The Village News
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Finding healing in stillness

For Tanya van Tonder, life is about slowing down, paying attention, and remembering the connection to oneself, nature, and the world around us.

It’s not about having all the answers.

At 43, Tanya describes herself as a curious multipotentialite whose life has unfolded through many different paths. She works as an intuitive energy healer and Reiki practitioner in Hermanus, is part of the communications team for a global animal welfare organisation, creates content, works at festivals and events centred around wild plants, and is developing her own Nature Woman project.

Beyond these different roles, she is best described as deeply curious about the natural world and ways people can live more consciously within it.

Her journey into Reiki was gradual – not dramatic. After years of navigating the pressures of modern life, work and relationships, she began looking for ways to feel more grounded and connected. Reiki felt familiar.

“It spoke to me on a deep level of familiarity – as if the practice was already within my bones and I just needed to be reminded,” she says.

Tanya studied Usui Traditional Reiki, achieving Shoden Level 1, Okuden Level 2 and Shipiden Level 3 attunement from Reiki Master Teacher Hannalie Benade.

Her understanding of healing extends beyond Reiki. She has developed a close relationship with plants through years of personal exploration, making remedies, growing, foraging and learning from others. Tanya credits Annette Muller of Wild Nettle as an important influence, while remaining humble about her own knowledge.

“I’m a student of this, not an authority on it,” she says.

Tanya approaches traditional plant knowledge with respect. She acknowledges that no formal cultural or family lineage was handed down to her, and she is conscious of learning from traditions without claiming what is not hers.

For Tanya, these practices are woven into daily life through food, plants, walking, stillness and time outdoors. Reiki and nature are not separate worlds, but different doorways into the same deeper connection.

Friends in need are friends indeed

Elaine Davie
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Friends in need are friends indeed

The Overstrand Association for Persons with Disabilities (OAPD) formally took possession of the property the South African Muslim Charitable Trust (SAMCT) bought for the association.

OAPD was registered in 2009 following a survey that identified the critical need for integrated social services for people with disabilities in the area.

For more than a decade they lived as nomads, first in a single room at the Thusong Hall complex, then at Hawston Secondary School during Covid-19, and then to a small church hall.

With the support of the Abagold Development Trust, which provided an ongoing supply of abalone shells, they established a thriving craft-making project. However, beause of limited workspace and no storage space, the situation became desperate.

Then SAMCT changed everything. After buying a large plot, formerly owned by Hermanus Child and Family Services, it was clear that the on-site structures were inadequate for the scope of services OAPD provided.

“A need for additional financial support was identified, bringing on-stream a work centre for adults and a new day-care centre to accommodate children with disabilities,” commented Faried Boltman, SAMCT’s representative at the event.

Three successful day-care projects had been established in Kleinmond, Zwelihle and Mount Pleasant, respectively. “Every child has a right to education, regardless of their circumstances. It is wrong that many children living with multiple disabilities are often excluded from schools or care facilities and remain at home without vital stimulation,” added Boltman.

Social worker and project manager Desiréé Gelderblom said that since moving into their new centre four years ago, OAPD also established a flourishing vegetable garden. The garden provides its members and a local retailer with fresh produce to sell, thereby generating additional income.

OAPD now offers 35 people with disabilities employment and serves 220 people with needs in the greater Hawston community. Twelve children and 16 adults participate in specialised day-care programmes.

For more information, e-mail: overstrandapd@hermanus.co.za or phone 028 315 1025. ■

Yellow-card woes for Hawston

Shane Schippers
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Yellow-card woes for Hawston

Hawston and Vredenburg rugby squads served up a thrilling encounter at the Hawston Sports Ground, affectionately known as ‘In Die Bos’, on Saturday, with the visitors staging a remarkable late comeback to force a 36–36 draw.

Hawston flew out of the blocks, with scrumhalf Cameron Plaatjies again showcasing his attacking brilliance with a perfectly weighted grubber kick to send winger Sergio van de Rheede over the line just two minutes into the game.

Hawston captain Branden Hunter scored a second try in the 13th minute to extend the home side’s lead to 10–0.

Vredenburg responded strongly with Rowen Syster scoring and Gregan Papier adding the conversion to narrow the deficit to three points.

The sides continued trading tries, with Jevan August scoring Hawston’s bonus-point try in the 35th minute that secured a 22–12 lead. Ruan Kleinsmith’s controversial corner try shortly before half-time reduced the gap.

Hawston gained fresh momentum after the break, with powerful midfielder Jayden Fisher slicing through the defence for a superb try. Michail Damon’s conversion extended the lead to 29–17.

But replacement Cameron Julies’ yellow card in the 63rd minute gave Vredenburg renewed hope. Flanker Curtley Jeffries crossed to bring the visitors back into contention.

Francois Geduld then powered over to seemingly put Hawston in control, but disciplinary lapses and two further yellow cards left the hosts vulnerable.

Vredenburg seized the opportunity, scoring two converted tries in the dying minutes to complete an astonishing comeback and leave Hawston supporters stunned.

Despite the draw, Hawston remain top of Group A on 13 points, with two fixtures remaining.

Safcol suffer late setback

Safcol United let a promising first-half lead slip against Bellavista in Ceres, eventually going down 28–24.

Ethan Stuurman, Edwin Sass and Andrin Mepomi crossed for Safcol in the opening half, giving the visitors a deserved 21–12 advantage.

But Bellavista fought back strongly after the break to claim victory and open up Group B. Despite the defeat, Safcol remain top of the group with 11 points.

Group A results

Robertson Town beat Roses 37-34

Abbotsdale beat Delicious NW 38-21

Group B results

Wesbank surprised defending champions Saldanha Bay with a 29-28 victory

Worcester Villagers narrowly beat Invincible 36-35 in Vredendal.

Hot Walkerbabes run riot

Shane Schippers
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Hot Walkerbabes run riot

Walkerbay Women's Rugby (Walkerbabes) delivered a commanding performance on Saturday when hosting Daisies RFC from Malmesbury in Round 3 of the Boland Women's Rugby Super 8 competition at Hawston Sports Ground.

The Walkerbabes ran in 10 tries, claiming a 58-0 win and earning a semi-final showdown against Roses United.

Walkerbabes try scorers were Lulu Tyibilika (2), Ayakha Soga (2), Zena Swart, Ropha Madyah (2), Sinalo Ziqwayi (2) and Hayley Mitchell. Soga added four conversions.

Community demands action as crime spikes

Bianca du Plessis
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Community demands action as crime spikes

Several break-ins in recent months, including two at the Hawston Library within two days, have left the community furious, and they are calling for improved policing in the area.

Hundreds of residents signed a petition to be handed to authorities, including the local police, the senior state prosecutor at Hermanus Magistrate’s Court, Overstrand Deputy Mayor Elnora Gillion and the municipal manager, as well as the Western Cape police ombudsman.

Hawston resident Isaac Claasen says he decided to draw up the petition because of the scourge of break-ins, especially those at the Hawston Library.

Overstrand Municipality’s Acting Municipal Manager Edward Jantjies confirmed the library break-ins on 26 and 27 October.

An air-conditioning unit was stolen in the latest incident. Exterior lights and another air-conditioning unit were stolen in earlier incidents. Extensive damage to the ceiling, the protective cage around the air-conditioning unit, the gate, and the security fence was also noted.

“The estimated cost of replacing the stolen air-conditioning units and repairing the damage is approximately R50 000,” Jantjies said.

“Hawston Library is an important community facility, providing access to books, educational resources and wi-fi in a safe and quiet space to study, particularly during the examination period.

“Incidents of theft, vandalism, and damage to public infrastructure may affect the availability of these services and resources, which many residents rely on,” he added.

Hermanus SAPS head of detectives, Lieutenant Colonel Nicky Steyn, said no arrests had been made and confirmed that the increase in housebreakings in Hawston had been recorded.

“Patrols by the police, Overstrand Law Enforcement and certain security companies have been stepped up in the area because it is a focus point for criminal activities,” Steyn said.

He urged residents to report suspected criminal activities to the police. “It is clear that locals are committing the crimes and that the buyers of stolen goods are also local,” he concluded. ■

Talent steps into the spotlight

The Village News
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Talent steps into the spotlight

Hermanus High School’s recent Spotlight Evening offered an engaging window into the school’s cultural life, bringing together music, drama, literature, dance and visual creativity in a programme of striking variety. Through short theatrical pieces, instrumental performances, readings, song and dance, learners demonstrated the many ways in which young people can find their voices. What emerged was a persuasive picture of a school with a wealth of talent and a willingness to give it space. The learners’ expressions, concentration and readiness to perform together were as telling as the costumes and choreography. Spotlight Evening celebrated achievement while also showing the value of participation: the confidence to step forward, the discipline to prepare and the generosity to share the stage.

PHOTOS: David Wilson

A focus on the written word

The Village News
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A focus on the written word

Performers: Mengelmoesdigters, Frazer Barry, Khadija Heeger

Time & place: Friday 27 November, 19:00-20:30 Location: The Shed,

Harbour Rd, Kleinmond

A focus on the written word
ABOVE: Diana Ferrus reading from her children’s book The Boy who Loved to Dance at last year’s inaugural Kleinmond cultural festival. PHOTO: Elaine Davie LEFT: The Mengelmoesdigters with Diana Ferrus (centre) at the launch of their poetry collection, Die Stoel Langsaan. PHOTO: Supplied

Dr Diana Ferrus (72), who died in January this year, was an internationally recognised poet, children’s book writer, storyteller, publisher, academic and women’s rights activist. She was also passionate about developing young writers.

A descendant of the Khoi people and colonial slaves, she was driven by a desire to secure recognition for them, as well as a restoration of their dignity. She excelled at forming deep connections with people, according to her close friend, Kleinmond musician Frazer Barry. He set many of her poems to music, and will be performing some of them at the Tribute.

The poem for which she is most celebrated is I’ve Come to Take You Home.

It’s about the desecration of the body of Sarah Baartman, a Khoi who was paraded as a ‘freak’ in colonial Britain and France in the 1800s. After Baartman died in 1815, her body was dissected. Her skeleton, brain and genitals were displayed at the Musée de l'Homme in Paris until the 1970s.

“Ferrus wrote the poem about Baartman’s dismembered body while she was a homesick exchange student in the Netherlands in 1998. The poem was later used by activists fighting for the remains to be returned for a dignified burial in South Africa.

“I’ve Come to Take You Home is perhaps the only work of literature to have been written into law. It is part of a French bill which allowed for the remains of Baartman to be repatriated to South Africa in 2002. Ferrus was a member of the South African delegation who travelled with the remains from France.”

Also performing at her Tribute will be the Mengelmoesdigters, established by her as a writing development project in 2013 at the Breytenbach Cultural Centre in Wellington.

Safcol in rampant mode

Shane Schippers
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Safcol in rampant mode

Safcol United players made their intentions clear, producing the weekend’s most emphatic performance by overwhelming Invincibles 92–15 in the Boland Top 12 rugby competition.

The commanding victory showcased Safcol’s formidable attacking firepower and sent a clear warning to their rivals that they meant business. The result also lifted Safcol to the top of the Group B standings, giving the Overberg two teams leading their respective pools.

Fresh from beating Abbotsdale RFC, reigning Overberg champions Hawston RFC travelled to Clanwilliam brimming with confidence, but found Delicious North West players determined to bounce back from their previous weekend’s defeat by Robertson Town.

Despite enjoying plenty of possession, Hawston players struggled to breach the disciplined Delicious North West defence.

Hawston however survived a spirited challenge from Delicious players to secure a hard-fought 38–29 victory in Clanwilliam, topping Group A.

Group A results

Vredenburg beat Robertson Town 38-26.

Roses United outlasted Abbotsdale 33-24

Group B

Worcester Villagers beat Wesbank 28-26.

Saldanha Bay edged out Bella Vista 20-24.

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