OUR COMMUNITY in LOCKDOWN #STAYATHOME ‘Let’S Look Back on the Good Times and Download the Look Forward to Better Times Ahead’ Pixzar App

1 April, 2020 Tel: 011 724 7000 • email: [email protected] FREE OUR COMMUNITY IN LOCKDOWN #STAYATHOME ‘Let’s look back on the good times and Download the look forward to better times ahead’ Pixzar app.

On Monday night last week, we curve the way we always unite when Scan the photo sat down as a family to watch our our communities come together for to see the President’s announcement, and those in need. gallery although we all expected what was Lockdown will not be easy, but we coming, the announcement still left are still a community and in these some kind of aftershock. trying times we have to look to the Not only was I thinking about future when we will again be able to not seeing my daughter for 21 days live life as a community. as she drove oﬀ after we said our We will be here for you, sharing goodbyes, but I also thought about important news and changes on our how I would not be able to get to her social networks as it happens. should she need me - how will I then We will still bring your newspaper comfort her? to your doorstep, keeping you in And these must be the thoughts of touch with your community amid many of our communities. these trying times. We are entering uncertain and Should you wish to communicate trying times, times which will have with us during this time and share our emotions in ups and downs. your stories, please feel free to pop However, with that being said, we us an email at [email protected] must also remember that our law With all of this said, we as much enforcers will be experiencing the as our readers and advertisers look same thoughts, emotions and will forward to again be free to visit and have the same questions. chat to our community on a face-to- Fact is - we are all in the same face basis. boat and we will have to ride this In the meantime, let’s look back wave out in unity. on the good times and look forward Don’t push the boundaries and to better times ahead. directives set in place and nobody May you all be blessed in these will push back at you. times - stay safe. We wish you all We ask our communities to please good health. stay put, stay at home and unite Carina van der Walt Working together to uplift our community. against Covid-19 and ﬂ attening the Editor 2 Alberton Record > News 1 April, 2020

In court this week Open electricity box poses Case postponed danger to community due to lockdown Thulani Mtotoba, a Brackendowns resident who faces charges of manufacturing and The state of an electricity or any other council electricity dealing in drugs, appeared again in the Palm transformer on the corner network or structure etc. Ridge Magistrate’s Court on March 26. of Ifafa and Illovo streets in • Water and Sewer - Water The magistrate’s decision to postpone the Brackendowns has left a resident outages, leaks, sewer spills etc. case was made in light of the coronavirus concerned. • Roads and Storm water - pandemic. Steven Coetzer, who has been a Potholes, damage to roads and Mtotoba was arrested at his home, which Brackendowns resident for about pavements, stormwater problems, had what was reported to be a Mandrax 23 years now, complained about missing manhole covers, damaged manufacturing facility, on September 4, the state of the transformer, which stormwater drains, blocked 2019. he described as stormwater During the arrest, the team also found an negligence. drains, undisclosed amount of money hidden in the “I’m not Those who wish to log traffi c lights, suspect’s vehicle. sure if this damaged The 48-year-old is expected to reappear is just poor their complaints may road signs in the Palm Ridge Magistrate’s Court on workmanship, contact the call centre and other April 21. an illegal roads, connection or on 086 054 3000. pavement, both. There are storm water Syndicate busted children that and related play in the street including my infrastructure problems. Six suspects have been arrested by CPS grandchildren and this is clearly • Municipal public transport. Security offi cers on March 22 in Van an accident waiting to happen,” • Environment matters - Air Riebeeck Road in Alberton after attempting he said. quality, food safety, pollution to break into a local self-storage facility. The transformer is left open of any sort, cemetery services, “Our offi cers responded to the complaint with wires exposed, which control of bees, rodents, noise, and apprehended the suspects who he considered as a health risk communicable diseases, waste attempted to fl ee from the premises. since people could be easily management, carcass removal, “This syndicate has been involved in electrocuted. illegal dumping, parks, water numerous incidents, ranging from business The RECORD has contacted features, facilities and any other robbery to house break-ins,” said Tyrone the City and no response has been degradation to the environment. van der Merwe, sales director of CPS provided to date regarding the • Health - Municipal clinics Security. matter. and information regarding health The suspects have been detained According to the City of facilities. at Germiston SAPS. House break-in Ekurhuleni’s social media • Municipal Housing - Council equipment and false number plates were platfi orm, these are some of the rental stock. found in their possession. complaints dealt with: • Finance matters - Cut-off lists, “We urge anyone who has a case number • Electricity - Outages, street outstanding bills, etc. involving these suspects to liaise with light faults, damage to sub stations • Detailed account queries. Steven Coetzer stands on the side of the transformer. Germiston SAPS,” he said. Anyone with information can contact Germiston SAPS on 011 871 5019. Elandshaven pensioner troubled by overgrown grass Many arrests made Henry Morey, an Elandshaven resident, is greatly worried about the state of by security company the overgrown grass at the back of his property. Fox Security had a busy day on March 25 According to Morey, the grass and and they took a couple of criminals off the weeds are growing up against his wall, streets. which compromises his safety as it may bring in criminals. Arrests they made: The untreated grass, which aff ects other surrounding houses, is at a water reservoir • A man was arrested after he was found directly behind his property. hiding in a Wendy house. This after Fox He told the RECORD that after tirelessly Security received a distress call from contacting council numerous times, nothing one of their clients in Webb Street in has been done to resolve the issue. Brackendowns about someone breaking “We have been asking for the grass and in. He was handed over to Brackendowns weeds to be sorted out for the last two SAPS. months, but nothing has happened. They • Fox Security’s control room received used to get people to come over and clean, another panic signal from a client in Roslyn but they eventually stopped. We have found Street in Randhart on the same day. two snakes in my yard,” he said. Additional information was provided The RECORD escalated the complaint stating that a suspect was stealing and a representative from the Department equipment from his property. of Water and Sanitation promised to look The overgrown grass at the back of his stand. INSET: Henry Morey, the concerned Reaction units responded swiftly and into the complaint. Elandshaven resident. apprehended the suspect in the neighbour’s yard where he was trying to hide. All stolen goods were recovered and he was handed over to SAPS. • Offi cers made another arrest on that Eden Park man same day after they yet again received a panic signal from a client in Lombaard Street in Raceview. arrested for dealing Reaction units responded and noticed a STEELEDALE & COMARO suspect in the same street dropping an alarm in narcotics beam while running. VIEW OPTOMETRISTS Offi cers gave chase to where the suspect jumped over the fence at Alberante Estate. SPECTACLE PACKAGES Members of the Ekurhuleni Metro Police A search was conducted and the suspect Single Vision Department (EMPD) Drug Enforcement was found hiding in Louw Weppener Street, Unit apprehended a male suspect with Alberante. He was arrested and handed over R490 narcotics on March 21. to SAPS. Bifocals - R890 The 28-year-old was arrested on Ariel • Cable thieves were arrested after a joint Multifocals Street during their crime prevention operation by Fox Security’s tactical and K9 operation. Unit, Reaper Tactical and SOS Security. R1290 Upon his arrest, they confi scated 16 After a tip-off from a community Bassonia Shopping Centre, ziplocks of khat which are valued at member, information was obtained of Bassonia (next to Clicks) R3 200 and R259 in cash. where the suspects were busy cleaning The suspect was detained at Eden C257625CCA10 011 432-8367/8 the cable to be sold. The operation was Park Police Station and faces charges of executed and three suspects were detained Steeledale Optometrists - Shop 28, Pick n Pay possession and intention to sell an illicit with approximately 28m of copper cable. Hypermarket, Steeledale substance. “One suspect is well known to SAPS and 011 613-7402 He will appear in the Palm Ridge was previously arrested for cable theft,” J.L. Brydges B Optom(RAU) F.O.A.(SA) CAS(USA) Neuro(USA) Magistrate’s Court soon. said Elowayne Gouws from Fox Security. 1 April, 2020 News < Alberton Record 3 The fi rst impressions of lockdown March 27 has dawned and the and there were even people queu- lockdown to prevent the spread of ing at ATMs. YOU SHARED the Covid-19 virus is in full eff ect. Alberton was still alive and well. Starting at 12am on the morning It heartened me to see that the of March 27, residents have been people that were on the streets limited to their homes except to took the President’s message purchase necessary supplies and seriously. medicine. There was very little loitering I decided to take to the streets to about with people keen to buy see what’s happening in Alberton. what they needed and get back to To my surprise, the ghost town I their homes. expected seemed to be a fi gment of A sense of tense silence was my imagination. over the town. People did not The streets, while a lot less speak or associate. Hantie Ferreira: busier than usual, still had people What did worry me was a certain of all walks of life moving around. group of individuals that did not Jana van Der Walt: Bianca Jordaan: “Defi nitely necessary. Shopping centre parking lots had seem to understand the serious “Fully supported by me. “Well I hope all our debt People just need to un- cars clustered around supermarkets situation we are in. Rather fi nancial loss places will understand ... derstand what it means Nadine Potgieter: To my absoluteabs surprise people than the loss of lives.” no work no pay.” and not still socialise with were posted on some street corners neighbours, children play- “I understand the com- tryingtrying to hithitchc a ride. ing outside when living in plexity of the situation. There was even a car guard at a complex etc. If people And Mr Ramaphosa oneone parking lot. don’t adhere we might be did what he had to do. AsAs a journalistjourn for the Alberton under stricter lockdown But I am concerned RECORD I urgeu people to please and for much longer, so and defi nitely not taketake this mamattert seriously. just bite the bullet, it will convinced that the DisregardingDisregardi the rules of the pass.” economy will survive lockdownlockdown pputsu not only your life this. Even with the big inin danger, bbutu vulnerable people in donations that will go thethe society aas well. to help certain people, WhereWhere possiblepos stay home and there are many people onlyonly leave yyouro house if it is abso- who will suff er after lutelylutely necesnecessary.s and during this period. TogetherToge as the residents Chanel Chanel: Naomi van Tonder: To do this in an already of Alberton we will get Candice Carlson: bad economy in a through this emer- “Its a good thing, but “Let’s take it one day at a recession might’ve not gency, but only if we “Fully support the supermarkets should time ... if you need help, been the best choice. are all invested in it. lockdown, but it is going be open for a few hours talk to family or friends. But I guess in this Here’s wishing to put fi nancial strain on each day so staff can Most important right now situation there isn’t a all of you a safe many families.” also at least be safe.” is your health. If you right or wrong, you do lockdown. have a roof over your what you do and you Roedolf Walker Share your opinion with us by leaving a head, food and water be will just have to face Senior Journalist comment on our Facebook page. grateful! Financial loss can the consequences that Alberton Boulevard still had several people and be restored later.” follow.” cars in it despite the lockdown.

Hans Scwandt and Romeo Mpofu weeding the police station’s garden. Community cleans up police station Local residents, members of the Brackendowns CPF, Rawson Properties and Ward 38 councillor Malcolm Maifala decided to help uplift their community by cleaning the Brackendowns SAPS building and grounds. “We would like to thank everyone who came out today to help,” said Brackendowns SAPS spokesperson Sgt Lindile Moloi. “The community is not only our eyes and ears, but keeps us responsible for our Keven Stephan and Dedré Stephan cleaning the charge work.” oﬃ ce. 4 Alberton Record > News 1 April, 2020

APN in dire need of pet food donations

Animal Protection Network (APN) Venter urged pet owners to look “Collars with identifi cation are attention and love. Make time to it would help those in need. is a part of a list of essential services after their dogs during the lockdown. your pets’ fastest ticket back to you play with your pet and also use this “We need to stand together now and they will still operate during “We have received a number of should they become lost.” opportunity to teach your pet new more than ever,” she said. South Africa’s lockdown. complaints over the last few weeks How to keep your pets busy things. Financial donations are also “We are busy obtaining the about dogs roaming the streets. during the coronavirus lockdown “There are also a lot of other welcomed and can be paid into the necessary documents and proof of “During the lockdown, take The current restrictions, such as activities available on the internet organisation’s FNB bank account, identifi cation, but yes, we will be the time to create a safe haven for social distancing and lockdown, about what you can do with your with account number 626 9398 working during this time as a lot of your pets by closing all holes and due to the Covid-19 pandemic, has pets inside and outside. I think this is 8770. animals depend on us,” said one of checking your fence. an impact on both pets and their a time to think creatively,” she said. “Kindly email proof of payment APN’s executives Zuerina Venter. “Dog proof your home and yard owners. “This can be an anxious APN’s immediate needs to [email protected] to APN is an animal welfare group and make sure to keep your pets time for everyone as the daily “Due to people panic buying, we enable us to thank you personally that is concerned with the health, safe,” she said. routines of your pet as well as yours get many cases where people cannot and to correctly allocate the safety and psychological wellness of According to her, they will have changed. You are at home and fi nd any dog or cat food available at donations,” Venter said. animals. be on standby daily to assist the not at work. Your dog, who was used shops. If you want to support APN According to Venter, they will not community. to going for walks, now has to stay “There are also a lot of people, or just make a donation, call 071 only take care of animals already “Also, make sure that your dog at home with you,” said Venter. including the elderly, who are unable 607 1188 or visit their website at in their care, but they will also be wears a collar with a name and Venter emphasised that it is now to go to the shops to buy food. www.animalprotection.co.za. Your looking out for the homeless dogs. contact number or even have your time to spend time with your pets. “So if there are any volunteers support can change the world of a Take care of your pets dog microchipped. “You can now give them your full who can donate any dog or cat food, vulnerable, abused animal.

Make sure you keep your pets safe during lockdown. Sassa takes precautionary measures The South African Social • All Sassa public gather- ciaries are urged to comply Security Agency (Sassa) is ings have been postponed with hygiene requests. taking precautionary meas- until further notice. Sassa Gauteng spokesper- ures against Covid-19 and • Home visits, clinic and son Nandi Mosia said the encourages benefi ciaries to hospital visits are tempo- precautions are implement- implement safety measures rarily suspended. ed in line with the Occu- against Covid-19. • Benefi ciaries are urged pational Health and Safety Sassa issued a few points to use electronic means of Act (OHSA) of 1993. for its benefi ciaries in an payment on paydays, and “As well as supporting attempt to prevent the spread we advise them that social the reduction and strategies of the virus. grants do not have to be to eliminate the spread of • Benefi ciaries are to note collected on the fi rst day Covid-19, Sassa humbly that a limited number of of payment. Benefi ciaries requests from each one of clients will be allowed into can still collect their social us to do their part in man- the premises. grants later in the month to aging this pandemic,” said • Benefi ciaries are encour- avoid crowding. Mosia. She concluded by aged to stay at home if their • Cash Pay Points will stating that Sassa appeals health is in question. be operational with the to its clients to be patient • Straightforward enquiries recommended hygiene and understanding in this Animals in distress during lockdown can be done telephonically. measure in place. Benefi - time of crisis. The Alberton SPCA will be to note that strict conditions missing during lockdown, SANBS calls on members of the public operational during lockdown, will apply and the SPCA will you can forward a WhatsApp but only for emergencies and not just let anybody onto the message which must include cruelty investigations. premises,” she said. a photograph of your pet to keep on donating lifesaving blood According to SPCA “Should you fi nd a lost to 071 626 0721. In the manager, Nadia Saunderson, or stray pet, you can bring event that the missing pet is The South African National and mobile drives will be set be permitted access to our they will still accept lost and it into the SPCA or contact delivered to the SPCA they Blood Service (SANBS) up at large grocery stores to facilities,” said Dr Jackie stray animals and they can them to come and collect - will contact the owners.” welcomes the necessary accommodate more donors. Thomson, SANBS medical be visited in cases of extreme again, strict measures will For more information, measures announced by the Appointments can be made director. emergency. apply. contact Alberton SCPA on President, His Excellency directly with your nearest “While travelling to our “It is, however, important “In case that your pet goes 011 907 1568. Cyril Ramaphosa, on March donor centre to avoid queuing various donor centres will be 23, to save lives and slow the at the donor centre. considered essential travel, spread of the Covid-19 virus. “The SANBS has taken our regular donor deferral This should not discourage precautionary measures periods will still apply.” Netcare suspends and restricts visiting members of the public from to ensure that the people Additionally, as donating lifesaving blood as who utilise our facilities are precautionary measures and to the SANBS tackles this global protected. ensure the safety of blood and hours in light of Covid-19 pandemic health pandemic as a nation “We are assessing donors at blood products during this during this diffi cult period all entry point to our facilities time, the following deferrals Visiting hours at Netcare hospitals have allowed to visit. when our country needs you and mobile sites. remain in eff ect: been suspended, except in specifi c special • Paediatrics: Only one parent at a time the most. “We have also equipped all • People who have travelled circumstances, as a further precaution is permitted to live in with an admitted As an essential service sites with additional antiseptic to aff ected countries outside against the spread of Covid-19. child. within South Africa, the sprays and alcohol-based South Africa will be deferred “In light of the severity of the Covid-19 This parent is required to have had no SANBS therefore for 21 days. pandemic, we needed to take extraordinary Covid-19 exposure and accepts that very appeals to donors • People with measures to protect all health care strict infection prevention controls will be from all blood groups ‘This should not discourage confi rmed cases of teams and our patients who cannot be put in place to minimise the risks to their to continue donating coronavirus infection discharged,” said Dr Richard Friedland, child and other children being cared for in blood to prevent members of the public from will be deferred for 28 Netcare chief executive offi cer. their paediatric facilities. blood stocks running donating lifesaving blood.’- days from the date of The following measures will apply: No grandparents and siblings will be critically low and complete clearance of • All visiting hours for general wards, allowed to visit. placing the lives of SANBS. symptoms. ICUs and the high care units will be • Gravely ill patients: An exception can our fellow South • People who have suspended with immediate eff ect. be granted by the hospital general manager, Africans at risk. been in close contact • Nurseries and neonatal intensive care as authorised by the regional director, in All of their donor centres wipes. with confi rmed or probable units (NICUs): only one parent at a time is these instances. will remain open with “Our trained health-care coronavirus cases will be allowed to visit newborns in a nursery or A minimal number of visitors will be extended operating hours practitioners operating in the deferred for 21 days. NICU. granted this exception and they will be to accommodate social fi eld have been equipped with Importantly, as is normal This is on condition that the parent required to wear a mask. distancing measures. the necessary information to practice when donating visiting has had no Covid-19 exposure and “We thank families and friends of Their extended operating identify symptoms that may blood, they encourage accepts that very strict infection prevention patients for their co-operation with regard hours will be between 8am to indicate Covid-19 infection, donors to delay donation controls will be put in place to minimise to these measures in this unprecedented 7pm weekdays and from 8am and should a donor not be if they are exhibiting any the risks to their baby and other babies time and for their contribution to ensuring to 2pm on weekends. feeling well, or exhibit any fl u-like symptoms or signs being cared for in these facilities. that we keep our most vulnerable loved Shopping mall donor fl u-like symptoms or signs of infection until they are in • No grandparents and siblings will be ones safe,” Dr Friedland concluded. centres remain accessible, of infection, they will not good health. 1 April, 2020 Alberton Record 5 6 Alberton Record > Opinion 1 April, 2020

Your voice On the fi rst day after the announcement of the lockdown in South Africa due to the coronavirus, the RECORD went out and asked Thapelo Nhlapo Thabang Ndaba Silindelokuhle Mthethwa Delano van Wyk Reene Ozil: residents, who were already queuing at the shops, what “The lockdown will “Toiletries are the fi rst “Even though I have taken “South Africa is going through “I have been buying they were stocking up on and put restrictions on our important things people precautions in case I run a tough time and that is hand washes. We are in how the situation would aff ect travelling, but I believe it need to be buying in bulk. out, I have made my own aff ecting our studies. But a season of checking our them. will help us to spend on The situation is bad and it is home-made sanitiser. It to keep safe we need to health regularly. I am also This is what they had to say: important things for the nerve-wracking to see stores is important for people to continue studying. One of the buying bottled water to sake of our well-being. The running out of stock. I am learn how to make home safety measures I have taken avoid going to taps.” only essential thing I am glad the president is ensuring remedies. This will also is avoiding going to the librar- spending on lately is my that stores do not run out of help them avoid long ies and buying study guides toiletries and medication.” stock at this point in time.” queues in stores.” to self-study from home.” Motoris moeg vir ander wat so jaag

Iets wat ek nooit van ongeduldige motoris agter op my senuwees gehad net mense sal verstaan nie is my gery het. met die manier hoe hy ry. hoekom hulle altyd in ‘n Hy het heeltyd baie Daagliks is ons lewens woongebied jaag en op ‘n naby aan my voertuig gery in gevaar en ek dink nie jy mens se motor afjaag? terwyl sy voertuig sulke wat so jaag gaan daarvan Ek het op 10 Januarie klap geluide gemaak het. hou as iemand anders sy in Kritzingerweg gery, Hy het my toe op ‘n lewe verloor weens jou vanaf Alberton City na die spêrstreep verby gesteek. nie? Alberton dam toe daar ‘n Die man het my omtrent Tarien Schourie Bejaardes benodig hulp in hierdie tyd Is daar enige vrywilligers gekanselleer. moontlikheid dat van die wat ’n helpende hand vir Ek is ook op soek na plaaslike apteke dalk pakkies ons bejaardes kan bied om iemand wat dalk maskers, kan opmaak van medikasie inkopies te gaan doen of om handskoene en ‘sanitiser’ soos vitamiene? ons medikasie by apteke te (hand- en oppervlak Ons kan nie bekostig om gaan afhaal? skoonmaakmiddel) kan apteek toe te ry en daar dan Met die uitbreek van borg aan ons wat dit nie te sien dat daar nie voorraad die koronavirus is dit vir kan bekostig nie. Weens is nie. Ons sal enige hulp sommiges van ons amper die vinnige verkope van waardeer. onmoontlik om ons huise handskoene en maskers word Elsa Sauermann - Bejaarde te verlaat en meeste van dit nou ten duurste verkoop. van Alberton (083 429 ons vervoerdienste is Is daar dalk ook ’n 9791)

Time for a late afternoon bath For a birdwatcher at heart, bird life always brings pleasure. And if you are a birdwatcher The Press Council of SA invites applications for the position of and photographer, active bird life in your garden is even better. Dark-capped bulbuls are a common sight in Alberton’s gardens. This beautiful specimen was photographed as it went for PUBLIC ADVOCATE a bath in the photographer’s garden birdbath. Dark-capped bulbul - Mariska Cilliers, amateur photographer. The Public Advocate: • Assists members of the public with complaints about journalistic conduct and ethics at our print and online subscriber publications; Have you lost your SASSA card? • Liaises directly with the publication for the complainant to resolve the complaint amicably, acting as the “advocate” for the complainant; I picked up a Sassa card replace this card during 083 679 6550 if you lost • Represents the complainant before the Press Ombud and/or the in the parking area of The the lockdown period, so your card or if you know Appeals Panel if required to do so; and Reef Shopping Center in I am hoping to ﬁ nd the the person who lost it. • Actively mediates disputes in terms of the Code of Ethics and Albermarle. owner of the card. Maggie van Vuuren - Conduct for SA Print and Online media and the Complaints It will be impossible to Please contact me on Alberton Procedures of the Press Council of South Africa.

The applicant is required to have in-depth knowledge of the role of the media in a democratic society in general, and of the Press Code. She/he will be impartial and fair and must have strong communication, Pensioner appreciates good deed facilitation and mediation skills. My humble thanks to the weekly grocery purchases. Thank you once again gentleman in the queue at I am an 82-year-old and may the good Lord ble How to apply: Pick n Pay Newmarket at pensioner and therefore ss you and your family. Details: Please submit a written the Lemon Tree shopping you can imagine how Be safe and healthy Applicants must have extensive media application to one of the centre on the morning of much your kind gesture is during these diﬃ cult times. experience, a fair understanding of the following channels: March 25 who paid for my appreciated. Forever grateful workings of the South African legal system, and a sense of public service. First Floor, Building 8, Applicants must be citizens of the Republic Burnside Island Office Park, of South Africa and reside permanently in 410 Jan Smuts Avenue, Thank you to refuse removal staﬀ the country. They must be committed to Craighall Park, the values underpinning the South African Johannesburg As a resident of Alberton I This morning (Monday) good advice mam, please Constitution, as well as the Code of Ethics wish to thank the men and when I went out to collect wash and sanitise your hands and Conduct for South African Print and Email: women who are still working my bin to bring it back into or use gloves when moving Online media. [email protected] tirelessly to remove our my property, I was greeted your bins inside. We touch rubbish by emptying our with a friendly and warm thousands of bins a day and Candidates do not require a legal Fax: 011 484 3619 bins. ‘Good morning ma’am, how then we touch the handles qualification to apply. The position is for a Telephone: 011 484 3612 It was a pleasure to see are you today?’ of your bins and everybody term of five years, which may be renewed. them and the trucks going That already told me that else’s bins.” through the quiet streets of these people are still doing To these men and women, Alberton. their jobs with a smile and and EMM - thank you for CLOSING DATE: 7 APRIL, 2020 But not only are they doing gratitude despite a country delivering this essential their rounds as they have being under lockdown. service, not only with a been in the past, they also Just as I was about to push smile, but with some good www.presscouncil.org.za add on a bit of advice when the bin back into our property advice as well. they empty your bins. the second man said: “Some Grateful resident 1 April, 2020 Alberton Record 7 8 Alberton Record > Community 1 April, 2020 Mayberry Park resident celebrates 90 years

Simphiwe Malunga and describes them as the best Muriel grew up during the great sense of humour. years of her life. time of the war. “My mother is a very focused Mayberry Park resident Muriel She told the RECORD more “We would hear on the and strict woman and I thank Swart, who recently turned 90 about her childhood years. radio about the war. We her for the sacrifi ces she made years old, has many stories to “We never had television also had blackouts and we in raising us. We would also tell. when we were young, we only would close the curtains most like to extend our gratitude She was born in Parkhurst had battery-powered radios. times. It didn’t aff ect South to the staff of Stepping Stone and soon afterwards her family “I was never bored at the Africa badly, but there were Hospice for managing the pain moved to Frankfort, a small farm because, together with my precautions taken to keep of her collapsed back, and our farming town in the Free State. younger sibling, we would play safe,” she said. personal care workers,” he When Muriel was 18 she, and never worry about a thing. Growing up, she also said. like so many others, was There’s a great diff erence witnessed the construction of Muriel’s say on Covid-19 looking for greener pastures between our generation and the Vaal Dam and saw many Muriel expressed her heartfelt and came to the City of Gold. today’s generation,” said memorable things unfold concern about the contagious She worked in government Muriel. before her eyes. coronavirus disease sweeping for several years before taking On the farm, surrounded by Muriel describes herself as the planet. up the position of offi ce cattle and sheep, she would an independent individual with “My son has assured me administrator in Johannesburg. milk the cows and collect eggs. a strong character. that we will be taking as many The mother of three was She enjoyed horse riding most At age 90, she still enjoys precautions as possible in married to her late husband, of all. reading her favourite novels, protecting ourselves from the Louwrens Swart, for 48 years She said: “Everything and she told the RECORD virus. I am not too worried. I seemed natural to me and I that reading gives her peace am aware that the president would even go to school on of mind. She said eating a has taken the precautionary a horse cart. At times they balanced diet contributed measures against this and I am would pick us up on a bus and immensely to her long lifespan. confi dent that things are being Muriel Swart recently celebrated you still had to walk quite a Her older son, Gerald Swart, done as correctly as possible,” her 90th birthday. distance to get to school.” describes his mom as having a she said. Authors of all ages take part in the Bennies Book Fayre at St Benedict’s College

Miguel Abrahams which no doubt will be bigger and better in 2021,” said Jann. YOU SHARED St Benedict’s College and Schools Twelve-year-old author of Finding Reading Road Show (SRRS) hosted Her Father Iyanda Jako said she was the Bennies Book Fayre on March nervous yet excited about attending 14. the book fair. Jann Weeratunga, SRRS chief “Even though I have nerves, I coordinator, said they were proud know everyone will love my book,” to host 57 amazing authors from said Iyanda. Cape Town, the Eastern Cape, Teenager and author of The Bloemfontein, Durban and Adventures of Malawi Tshiano Noko Adrienne Woods, author Johannesburg. was also happy to be part of the of the Dragonian Series: She said nearly 60 authors, Bennies Book Fayre. including 10 child authors under the “I expect the fair to be very “Reading is important for age of 18, gathered for the biggest interesting and I am especially the youth as it helps with children and young adult book fair in excited to interact with other child the development of future South Africa. authors,” said Tshiano. storytellers.” The fair included workshops, Edenvale author Richard Edwards an activity area, demonstrations, held a workshop on his book Puzzle panel discussions, a chatterbox, a Train, which is about an 11-year- Mad Hatter’s Tea Party, dress-up old boy who participates in a game competition and a reading corner. show. “We had 100 learners arrive from Tevin Blignaut, author of We Need three schools in Freedom Park, Your Purpose, also held a workshop sponsored by Umtunzi, St Benedict’s on his book where he discussed the College and the SRRS,” said Jann. concept of purpose and principles of Carlyle Labuschagne, Jann added that the learners were success. author of Tethered: transported to St Benedict’s Prep, Jann is also the author of the treated to a day of books and lunch Polly’s Piralympics series and, with “It is important, especially for and sent home, each with their own Lerato Tefo, author of The Search the youth to ﬁ nd something book donated by authors. for Happiness, participated in the they can relate to. It also helps “It was an incredible day and reading corner, where they read their with growth.” satisfying for everyone involved. books to eager learners. St Andrew’s School for Girls learner Relebogile Mothema, the author of We’ll be back for the next one, Bizzarcar, was also in attendance at the Bennies Book Fayre.

Sian Claven, author of Ensnared:

“Reading is important for the youth as it improves communication.”

Soraya Hendricks, author of The Legend of The Gilded Scroll: “I think it is important for the youth to read as it helps them to study and also understand better.” Download the Pixzar app, scan the photo to see the gallery Share your opinion with us by leaving a comment on our Facebook page. Child authors who participated in a panel discussion at the Bennies Book Fayre on March 14. 1 April, 2020 News < Alberton Record 9 10 Alberton Record > Community 1 April, 2020 Sixty years of love

Patience and love have kept Sesto (85) and Kotie Cappelletto (78) together for 60 years. They celebrated their 60th anniversary on February 13 with their children and grandchildren. “My daughter set up some beautifully decorated tables outside, in our garden, and we all just spent the time together.”

A wedding without a cake

Sesto and Kotie met after Sesto came to visit Kotie’s parents’ farm in Rietfontein, near Rustenburg, with friends. “I just saw this good- looking guy with this black Die verliefde paartjie. Bennie en Tienie Bezuidenhout. curly hair, and my breath was taken away,” said Kotie. After almost a year of Na 50 jaar blom die liefde nog steeds dating, Kotie’s mother told her father that he should go and dress up nicely as Sesto “Die beste raad vir ’n lang Tienie en Bennie het hulle enigiemand by te staan. wanted to ask him something. en suksesvolle huwelik liefde aan mekaar beloof in Lenie du Venage, “Back in the days, is om mekaar te vertrou,” 1970. ’n vriendin van die everything was so formal, het Bennie (70) en Tienie Hulle woon hulle lewe Bezuidenhouts, het gesê dat and the old people were very (69) Bezuidenhout van lank al in Brackendowns en Tienie soos ’n moeder vir focused on their appearance,” Brackendowns gesê. spog met drie kinders en drie haar is. said Kotie. Die egpaar het op kleinkinders. “Sy is altyd daar as die “I asked her father if I could Sesto and Kotie Cappelletto still in love after 60 years. 20 Maart hulle 50ste Deur siekte en goeie en nood op sy ergste druk. Ek marry her, and he replied huweliksherdenking gevier. swaar tye het hulle bymekaar wil graag ook die geleentheid with ‘Will you look after my retiring. said that they could not “Ons het sopas terug gestaan en bewys dat ’n gebruik om hulle geluk daughter’, and I nodded and After he retired, he opened remember if they ever went gekom van ’n vakansie huwelik 50 jaar kan hou deur te wens met hulle 50ste said ‘yes’, and he then gave a construction and civil to bed angry. in Namibië en gaan ons geloof en liefde. huweliksherdenking en ek me his blessing,” Sesto said. engineering training centre. “This is just not something huweliksherdenkingsdag Bennie is a bobaas wens net mooi dinge vir hulle The couple then got married Kotie has always been we believe in. Don’t go to rustig saam vriende en hengelaar en Tienie se hande vorentoe. Hulle is deﬁ nitief in the Roman Catholic a housewife who stayed at sleep angry,” they said. familie vier,” het Tienie staan staan vir niks verkeerd ’n voorbeeld vir baie ander Church in Krugersdorp. home to make sure the house Their advice to newly gesê. nie; sy is altyd daar om getroudes,” het Lenie gesê. “The after party was at my and children were looked married couples is that they parents’ farm, and then we after. should have patience and to found out that someone stole In her younger days she respect each other. “Do not our wedding cake, and to date worked at the abattoir as a be selﬁ sh, and have faith,” THE APP THAT we still don’t know who [stole secretary. said Sesto. it].” Sixty years later, they CONNECTS YOU TO are parents of two beautiful Future plans 60 years together daughters, grandparents of EMERGENCY three grandchildren and three Together they have Sesto, who was born and great-grandchildren. travelled the world, so their SERVICES WHEN bred in Italy, moved to South Sesto spends his spare time plan for the future is to spend Africa when he was 21 years on the golf course while Kotie more quality time with their YOU NEED IT old. loves to paint. family and friends. He worked in the mining Most of the paintings in “Our greatest wish is to industry for seven years their house were painted by grow old together, and to see before moving over to her. our children, grandchildren the construction and civil and great-grandchildren engineering industry. Their recipe for love live their lives. We are also He worked as a planning on spending more construction worker and During their interview with time with each other,” they engineer for 47 years before the RECORD, the couple said. Ward 37 committ ee and residents clean dam The Ward 37 committee “I suspect the oil that is throwing things into the and councillor Tiaan Kotze all over the dam is coming dam. Cleaning the dam conducted a clean-up at the from the factories around shows that we want to live Alberton Dam on March 7. here,” said Kotze. in a clean environment,” he They were joined by “Also, the dam is full said. some of the residents to see of sewage and plastics, Kotze encourages to it that the dam is relieved which may be caused residents to try by all means of waste. by burst pipes or people to keep the dam clean.

R59.99 PM

IN AN EMERGENCY EVERY SECOND COUNTS Some of the team members who helped to clean Alberton Dam. www.albertonrecord.co.za/property 1 April, 2020 11 Alberton

GetGet thethe lifestylelifestyle youyou alwaysalways imaginedimagined

www.privateproperty.co.za

ALBERTSDAL HEIGHTS FLAMINGO CROSSING

THESE LOVELY HOMES CONCIST OF: Full Bath Including Shower 2 & 3 Bed r(SBOJUF5PQTr-PBET0G Units To Let $VQCPBSE4QBDFr%PVCMF $PWFSFE1BSLJOHr$FSBNJD In Upmarket 'MPPSTr"DDFTT$POUSPMr1SFQBJE Estate .FUFSTr4PMBS(FZTFSr(BT FROM R6 500PM 4UPWFTr1BUJP8JUI0XO#SBBJ r4VCKFDU5P5FSNT$POEJUJPOT 24Hr Immediate Security NO PETS Occupation 060 998 5000 011 868 4105 Office Hours | [email protected]

M&D14 RENTALS  George or Colene 011 821-5800 [email protected] | [email protected]

Tel: 011 821-5800 (Germiston) | Tel: 011 821-5800 (Alberton) www.mawer-delport.co.za

Address Beds Baths Parking Rent Avail Alberton North - Zondella Court 1 1 1 Parking R3 720 Imm Alberton North Parknorth 1 1 1 Parking R3 488 1 April Alberton North Key Largo 2 1 1 Parking R4 200 1 April Alberton North - President Place 1.5 1 1 Parking R4 500 Imm Alberton North - Jakaranda Hof 2 1 1 Parking R4 515 Imm Alberton North - Irene Court 2 1 1 Parking R4 540 1 April Alberton North, 2 1 1 Parking R6 200 Imm The Three Shepherds Albermarle Alberview 2 1 1 Garage R6 500 Imm Alberton North - Villa De Afrique 2 2 1 Parking R6 120 Imm Alberton North - Rosahof 1 1 1 Parking R4 400 Imm Alberton North - Costa Azul 3 1 1 Parking R7 105 1 April Double Florentia - Li Brandhof 32 R9 975 1 April Garage Double Meyersdal - Monte Lupo 3 2.5 R12 000 1 April Garage Meyersdal - Mont Serrat 3 2 1 Parking R6 800 Imm New Redruth - Jakaranda Hof 2 1 1 Parking R4 500 1 April New Redruth - Nabucco 2 1 1 Parking R5 265 1 April Randhart, La Tiamar 2 1 2 Parkings R6 200 Imm

Randhart, Helderberg 1.5 1 1 Parking R4 300 1 April

South Crest Alberton View 2 1 1 Garage R6 045 Imm 12 1 April, 2020 www.albertonrecord.co.za/property

Florentia - Alb - 5 000: 1 beds, 1 bath, carport, garden, pool. JUL Boksburg - Cent- 5 200: 2 beds, 1 bath, parking. IMM Alb North - Alb - 5 000: 3 beds, 1 bath, garage, upstairs. IMM Meyersdal - Alb - 5 400: 1 bed, 1 bath, upstairs, carport. APR Albemarle- Germ- 6 000: 2 beds, 1 bath, carport, g/floor, pool, play area, secure. IMM FROM R6 450PM | R7 950PM FROM R6 900PM & R9 800PM R5500PM OR R6 950PM R6 000PM Florentia- Alb- 6 048: 3 beds, 1 bath, ground floor, security and pool. APR ALBEMARLE, GERMISTON ORMONDE, JOHANNESBURG RADIOKOP, ROODEPOORT NEW REDRUTH Boksburg- Farrar - 6 200: 2 beds, 1 bath, Duplex, garden, garage, pet friendly. MAY 2 And 3 bedroom units Situated right next to the 2 and 3 bedroom units with An upstairs unit with 2 bedrooms, Bassonia- Jhb- 6 300: 2 beds, 1 bath, carport + 1 open parking. IMM Gold Reef Casino and theme park. 1 bathroom, open-plan kitchen with own garden that are open-plan kitchen lounge with New Redruth- Alb- 6 300: 2 beds, 1 bath, carport, upstairs, pool in complex. APR PET FRIENDLY. A 2 minute 2 and 3 bedroom units on the ground 1 or 2 bathrooms and lock-up and lounge and large balcony off and upstairs. All have 2 bathrooms the lounge. There is 1 lock-up 1st month Rent Free New Redruth - Alb - 6 500: 2 bed, 1 bath, o/p kitchen and lounge, walk from the new Reef and tiled throughout. On the public garage. 3 bedroom units are on Shopping Centre. Prepaid transport route. the ground floor. Immediately garage for parking. Close to CBD carport. IMM electricity & water. Immediately available. available. and schools. Immediately available Mayfield Park- Jhb- 6 900: 2 beds, 1 bath, garden, garage, pool. JNE Meyersdal- Alb- 7200: 3 beds, 1 bath, stand alone, garden, carport MAY Denlee - Germ - 7 200: 2 beds, 2 baths, parking, pool, tennis and braai area. IMM Mayberry Park- Alb- 7 500: 3 beds, 2 baths, DUPLEX, garage + 1 open, PETS MAY Alberton- Germ- 8 250: 3 beds, 2 baths, SIMPLEX, garden, tandem garage. APR Ridgeway- Jhb- 10 000: Duplex, 4 beds, 2 baths, garden. APR R6 550PM R7 850PM R7 300PM R3 900PM Alberton North- Alb- 16 000: Commercial offices, alarm, off-street parking. IMM ESSEXWOLD, EDENVALE MEYERSDAL, ALBERTON NEW REDRUTH, ALBERTON BOKSBURG Meyerton Midvaal P.O.A: 2 beds, 2 baths, garden, garage. MAY 2 bedroom, 2 bathroom, open- Just across the road from shopping A PET FRIENDLY ground floor Windmill Park Estate Boksburg. plan kitchen and lounge ground centre these 2 bedroom, 2 bathroom unit with garden, 2 bedrooms, 2 3 bedroom 1 bathroom DUPLEX units For more information call one of our agents: floor and upstairs with carport. units with open-plan kitchen and bathrooms, open-plan kitchen and with lounge and open-plan kitchen, tttt lounge on the ground and upstairs Owners, let NatRent assist you with your rentals Only 12 units in the complex with prepaid power supply. Each unit lounge with 2 parkings. Only 500 prepaid electricity supply, carport, within a security area. Immediately has 1 carport. Available from April metres from the Reading Country security, play areas, on public transport We also have properties in Sunninghill, Pretoria and Kempton Park. available or 1st April and May Golf club. Available 1 April route. Immediately available Please call for more details. Local motoring news

1 April, 2020 @autodealersa @autodealersa Autodealersa Corolla sedan returns to local shores with a fresh face and RSi models of yesteryear, but this latest Autodealer Corolla appears to buck the bland trend set by its predecessors. After the recent launch of the new Corolla Download the Pixzar app, scan the photo to view gallery Quest and the updated specifi cation seen on the How its diff ers from the hatchback Corolla hatchback, the all-new Corolla sedan has fi nally made it to local shores. The Corolla Despite being similar to the hatchback in many is one of the world’s most successful automo- ways, local Corolla sedan variants diff er by vir- tive nameplates, however, there’s a global trend tue of their powertrains. Featuring at the top of that appears to be favouring crossovers and the list is the XR derivative which comes fi tted SUVs over the traditional sedan and hatch- with a 2.0-litre petrol engine, either mated to a back-style vehicles. six-speed manual gearbox or 10-step continu- ously variable transmission (CVT). This option A segment sales leader is capable of 125 kW and 200 N.m of torque, marking an increase from its predecessor. The C-segment sedan market in which the Also on off er is a base model XS option which Corolla competes has become a popular features a 1.8-litre motor, exclusively mated to place for those in the mobility industry, with the CVT transmission capable of 104 kW. The hailing services such as Uber and Bolt fi nding 2.0-litre motor promises a fuel consumption these the ideal vehicle type for their respective fi gure of 6.0 L/100km when paired with the services. Having said that,the latest Corolla CVT and 6.5 L/100km for the manual while the certainly appears from both a specifi cation and 1.8-litre CVT derivative sips fuel at a claimed an aesthetics perspective, to appeal to more rate of 6.2 L/100km. In addition to updated than just your average Uber driver. engines, Toyota has added double-wishbone suspension to the rear which in turn results in a Similarities to the hatchback more comfortable and refi ned driving experience. PRICING As seen in the impressive Corolla hatchback, the sedan will come with a variety of new Features Corolla 1.8 XS CVT R372 700 driver-assistance and safety features as well as a new multimedia system. The new model The base model Corolla 1.8 XS comes stand- Corolla 2.0 XR manual R412 300 will also be priced and specifi ed similarly to ard with LED headlights, push-start, cruise the aforementioned hatchback in an attempt control, auto climate control, reverse camera, by Toyota to simplify the selection process for a new infotainment system, and multifunction Corolla 2.0 XR CVT R425 200 customers. steering wheel with Voice Command as well as The product is built on the latest TNGA plat- Apple CarPlay and Android Auto functionality. form, much like the C-HR, which was the fi rst Safety items include seven airbags (including move by the Japanese brand to inject some a driver’s knee bag), an electronic parking wheels, electro-chromatic rear-view mirror, added verve into its line-up. Judging by the brake, Hill Assist Control and Vehicle Stabil- combination leather upholstery, steering Service plan and warranty exterior and interior design of the newcomer, ity Control as standard. In addition to these wheel-mounted paddle shifters on the this is likely the most exciting Corolla yet. The features on the XS variant, the XR derivatives CVT fi tted derivative, as well as Blind Spot All Corolla models come with a six-service/90 worlds ‘exciting’ and ‘Corolla’ haven’t been feature keyless entry, Bi-LED headlights Monitor, Adaptive All-Speed Cruise Control 000 km service plan and a three-year/100 000 used in the same sentence since the RXi with Auto High-Beam, two-tone 18-inch alloy and Lane Departure Alert. km warranty. 14 Alberton Record > Classifi eds 1 April, 2020 1 April, 2020 Sport < Alberton Record 15

Pit Bull Gymnasium held a successful powerlifting competition at Crown Gardens Recreation Centre. Colin du Bruyn, trainer at Pit Bull Gymnasium, Jan Kruger receiving his trophy from Louis Dunn, the president of Rhino Powerlifting Club South Africa (RPC) and Kobus Bester, trainer at Pit Bull Gymnasium. Powerlifting contest a great success

Pit Bull Gymnasium hosted in June 2020. helpers, and most of all the a successful powerlifting Stalwart Jan Kruger broke Rhino Powerlifting Club competition at Crown records in the squat, bench South Africa (RPC) for their Gardens Recreation Centre. press and deadlift in the support. The contest was well run 140kg division. Pit Bull Gymnasium by experienced personnel Pit Bull lifter Mark Esch will be hosting a push/pull with lifters from all over broke the equipped bench competition in September Gauteng, such as clubs from press record in the master 3 2020, at the Crown Gardens Midrand, Kempton Park, 140kg division. Recreation Centre. Lenasia, Sandton, Pretoria, Mark Hurn made a For further information Alberton and Vanderbijlpark comeback after a break of about strength training, participating in the 25 years breaking the squat, contact coach Kobus Bester competition. Various new bench press, deadlift and the on 076 332 1254 and lifters were welcomed on the total records. coach Colin du Bruyn on platform and seasoned lifters The club wants to thank 073 541 5916 and email: qualiﬁ ed for the national everybody that entered the colinsamericanbulldogs@ championships, taking place contest, the spectators and gmail.com. Stretch in the rugby world

Jason Waldeck, better About his ambition known to his Alberton “My greatest ambition Madala teammates as is to be part of a Gauteng Stretch, is not only a Barbarians team that beats stalwart for the Madalas them as we have come but also for the Gauteng close on a few occasions.” Barbarians 10s rugby side The Legends team and has proven himself over consists mainly of former a number of years. provincial and international The RECORD caught stars. up with him on his return “I have been fortunate from the Cape Town 10s to play against some where he participated for legends of South African the Gauteng Barbarians 10s rugby. The likes of John team. Smit, Bakkies Botha, Jason, carrying the Percy Montgomery, Bobby nickname Stretch, from his Jason ‘Stretch’ Waldeck said Skinstad and De Wet Barry, school days, said he started his dream is to be part of the to name but a few. playing rugby in his matric team that manages to beat “The best player I ever year. the SA Legends team. faced was the ex-All “After matric I went to “I played with them Black Carlos Spencer. The the army and was fortunate basically from when the club skill level he possesses enough to be chosen for the originated,” said Jason. and displays at fl y half Northern Natal team,” said “I later became involved is astounding, to say the Jason. with the Lions Golden least.” “But I never actually Oldies and started the Jason, as do many of the played for them as I took a Gauteng Barbarians team, players, covers the costs to transfer to the canine unit which is a collection of the attend the tournaments out that was based in Limpopo. best oldies players from of his own pocket, for the “There I played a bit of around Gauteng.” love of the game. rugby for the army and In his long career He would like to thank when I fi nished with the Jason has played in two the sponsors for the support army I played a bit of club tournaments for the Queens they have shown to the rugby too.” Barbarians, one for the Gauteng Barbarians team. When Jason moved back Lions Oldies and two “Without them it would to Alberton, he played for tournaments for the Gauteng not be possible to play in the Alberton fi rst team for Barbarians. Jason has also these tournaments,” Jason a while before moving taken part in the Durban 10s explained. overseas, where he played at and Tshwane 10s. “Thank you to Pieter his peak for London Welsh. “At the Tshwane 10s we du Preez of Market Car “The club played in the played four tournaments, Sales, Werner Pretorious fi rst division just under the but have played in the fi nal of Phakisa Holdings Group Premiership with clubs like against the SA Legends for and Darryl and Liezl Esplin Saracens and Bath to name a three years in a row,” said from EcoZyme. few. This was a competitive Jason. “Finally, certainly not league and was very tough, “In Durban we played least, I would like to thank but also very rewarding.” against the Legends in the my very supportive wife, fi nal in a game that was a Marcelle, and kids, Joshua, On home ground curtain-raiser to a Super Madison and Hayden, for Rugby game. their support in making it When Jason moved back “We have always been possible for me to live my to the country, he was unlucky to lose to the dream playing the sport approached by Danie Putter Legends team whenever which I love. Without you to be part of the Alberton we play them in a fi nal or guys I would not be able to Madalas. semi-fi nal.” do it.” 1 April, 2020 Tel: 011 724 7000 • email: [email protected] A fi rst for Africa in roller derby

History was made on our doorstepdo when the international Roller Derby World Cup, held fi rst-ever roller derby tournatournament took place. every three to four years. Download the The event, a contest betweenbetw two African This sport is a contact sport where both Pixzar app. countries, recently took placplace at Uniao teams defend and attack with their players. Desportiva hall in Turff onteontein. Local fans and the international roller derby TeamsTeam that participated community have been waiting for the African scan the photo includincluded the Joburg- tournament since the continent’s fi rst roller and see more based Golden City derby league was founded in Joburg in 2010. photos Rollers, CaiRollers from The event displayed the skills of those Cairo, EgyEgypt, Durban Roller teams, and hopefully this will serve as a Derby and Cape Town RollRollergirls. Guest springboard for the sport to grow in Africa. skaters, the United Arab EEmirates (UAE) All A bit of history on the sport. It started in the Stars and Dubai, participparticipated in a mixed- 1930s in the USA, and it was only in the 2000s leleagueague teamteam. that the roller derby really got off the ground to The fi rstrs sight of the become a recognised sporting code. It became “no ballball” competition is more popular, and grew its international attractinattracting the attention of footprint to what it is today. It is popular mamanyny sspectatorsp in the among women in the USA which boasts the country where it is evident strongest teams. that ball sport takes a high Only in 2017, did for the fi rst time a priority. team from Australia win the WFTDA Roller derbyderb is the fastest Championships. Until then, the USA growing women’s spsport in the world, dominated the championship scene. with an estimated 2 000 leagues across 53 Delia du Toit of Joburg’s Golden City countries. Only four rollroller derby leagues Rollers (GCR) said the team was founded in exist in the countcountryry whicwhich are situated 2010 with the fi rst South African league. in the four big cities of JoJohannesburg, Cape Town Rollergirls, Durban Roller On the roll. The fi rst-ever roller Pretoria, Durban and CapCape Town. Derby and P-Town Roller Derby, followed derby tournament took place at The teams compete in a national suit. Uniao Desportiva hall in Turff ontein. tournament annuallannually.y. TTop players from “Today, it’s a lot more structured, and we Photo: Annette van Schalkwyk all the four leagueleagues have been sent have tried and tested coaching programmes to represent their country at the for various skill levels. GCR and Cape Town Rollergirls are also the only African members of the Women’s Flat Track Derby Association (WFTDA), the international women’s roller derby governing body. “In SA, only over 18s are allowed to join a league as it is a full-contact sport. Some overseas leagues have junior roller derby, though. Local leagues allow both women and men to take part, but bigger local games and tournaments are only played by women at this stage. “GCR did have a men’s team at one point, but the sport is more popular with women, and there just aren’t enough men right now to form full teams. “Men and women have quite diff erent playing styles, so the teams aren’t often mixed- gender,” said du Toit. “Other than that, there really are no requirements to take part. Our coaching programmes at GCR teach new skaters everything they need to know, from skating skills to contact skills and game play. “New skaters have to do skating exams, after completing the coaching programmes, to ensure their skill level is adequate to be safe during games before they are allowed to play. “It also attracts people from all walks of life, and is a wonderfully inclusive community. We have lawyers, doctors, moms, artists, any profession you can think of, in our league. “There’s also no upper age limit or ideal body shape in derby, as long as you’re willing to learn and get fi t. “Today, the sport is a far cry from the staged antics it took its name from in the 1960s, and beyond. When the sport was revived in Texas in the early 2000s, the focus shifted to athleticism, competition and empowerment,” said du Toit. The results for the roller derby are: Qualifi ers: Pan-African Rollers (116) v CaiRollers (59) Golden City Rollers (199) v Pan-African Rollers (23) Golden City Rollers (248) v CaiRollers (16) Final: Golden City Rollers (285) v Pan-African Rollers (37).