January 17 saw the first meeting of Sasol Highveld Photography Club for 2025. The next club meeting will be on February 7 at Sasol Club
The meeting was an important one as several club “items” were discussed.
An important matter was that of membership fees.
Here are the fees for the year:
Membership fees for June 2025: R200 per year for ordinary members R100 per year for pensioners
Sasol Club Fees – Need to complete Sasol Club Member Form (to receive card) Sasol Employee – part of salary deduction Non-Sasol Employee R 420 – Need to be paid June
If you have any questions, contact Louis van der Walt at +27 (72) 755-2767. The Sasol Highveld Photography Club is passionate about photography and the quality of its images. It wants its members to enjoy their photography.
Members are also graded by their skill levels and receive points to progress to a higher level. The aim is for photographers to improve by having their photos judged and critiqued. By taking note of the guest’s commentaries, they should be able to improve.
The Judges for January was Jannie & Juanita van Niekerk
Different “certificates” are awarded to the photographs. These are Bronze, Silver, Gold and Certificate of Merit (COM). If the author (photographer) does everything wrong in a photo, for his/her skill level, such as out of focus he/she will receive a bronze. Doing everything right will result in gold or even a COM.
The “Set Subject” was Holiday.
The Best Photograph in the Set Subject division was “Sunrise Canoeing” by Sussa Pelser
Sunset Canoeing by Sussa Pelser
The Best Photograph in the Senior Division is Louis van der Walt’s “Wolfberg Arch Sunrise“
Louis van der Walt – Wolfberg Arch Sunrise
The best photograph in the Junior Division is Anzette Snyders – “Coasty“
Anzette Snyders – Coasty
The following photographs all received Certificates of Merit in the various categories.
Category – Pictorial
Anzette Snyders – Gothic Marius Krige – Buffelsfontein jou rowwe bliksemMarius Krige – Burger with Potato Wedges for Dinner DNE Smit – Old lady Piet Potgieter – I aint nothing but a hound dog Lorraine Botha – Cool shades Leon Pelser – almost dead Marius Krige – Chicken Sweet Potato Food Photography
Category – Set Subject
Louis van der Walt – Fairways Sunset Anzette Snyders – SailingMarius Krige – Carrot Cake at ChristmasDNE Smit – Valencia Piet Potgieter – Plaas vakansieJames Harris – Family man Lorraine Botha – Ice cream glee Leon Pelser – early morning fishingAdri Kirsten – Sonsopkoms Danabaai strand
Category – Nature
James Harris – Vine snake Lorraine Botha – Pretty fungus in the forest Sussa Pelser – Sand Viper 1Lorraine Botha – Forest Fungi Johan Viljoen – Take this
Category – Photojournalism
DNE Smit – Princess warrior in mud poolLorraine Botha – Surfs up
Category – Monochrome
Louis van der Walt – Rapunzel Lounge 1 – BW Anzette Snyders – Vintage James Harris – ladyJohan Viljoen – I am blue Sussa Pelser – Dress For Success Mono
Category – Scapes
Louis van der Walt – Tugela River Rocks 2 Edmund Hattingh – Northern Lights Piet Potgieter – Bales Leon Pelser – Above cloud 9 Sussa Pelser – Landscape In Pano Anzette Snyders – Tomorrows dreamEdmund Hattingh – Snow on the Mountains Leon Pelser – Canola symplicity Edmund Hattingh – Rocky Mountains
Category – Nature, Birds Only
Louis van der Walt – Inkunzi Cave Swallow 1 DNE Smit – Mahem James Harris – fish gone Johan Viljoen – My turn
Paternoster is ‘n idilliese plekkie hier aan die weskus, waarheen duisende mense jaarliks stroom om iets van die eens ongerepte vissersdorpie te kom ervaar. Die dorp se naam kom van Katolieke Portugese seevaarders wat hier gestrand het, en die plek Paternoster (“Onse Vader” in Afrikaans) genoem het. Dit het ‘n ouwêreldse bekoring, met sy “Oep-vi-koep” winkel, sy kreeffeeste (mens maar moet versigtig wees om goedkoop kreef langs die strate uit Checkerssakke te koop), en die vissers wat elke dag met kleurryke skuite uitgaan om ‘n bestaan te maak. Ook die bekende akteur At Botha se kunsgalery lok baie besoekers.
Dan is daar natuurlik die beroemde Paternosterhotel, met sy ewe beroemde “panty-bar” waar vele wittebroodspaartjies hulle baldadigheid teen die kroeg se dak kom vasspyker het. Volgens die eienaar was daar op ‘n stadium 769 broekies van alle groottes en kleure. Hy is seker oor die getal, want ‘n sekere dominee het ‘n klag van openbare onsedelikheid teen die hotel gaan lê in Vredenburg-polisiestasie, en na gelang van die aantal bewysstukke, is 769 sake van onsedelikheid teen die hotel ondersoek. Die saak is toe uit die hof gegooi, en die sensitiewe kledingstukke is dadelik weer teruggehang op hulle plek, waar menigte kroegvlieë dit steeds grootoog beloer. Die wye, wit strande strek kilometers ver weerskante toe, en jy kan stap tot in St. Helenabaai, of na die ander kant tot in Tietiesbaai.
Paternoster was so paar jaar terug weer in die nuus: een van die kleinste restaurante aan die weskus is aangewys as die beste in die wêreld. Wolfgat is ‘n unieke en intieme aardse restaurant bo-op die Wolfgatgrot in die skilderagtige strand van Paternoster. Dit het nie net in die kategorie “Restaurante langs jou reispad” louere ingeoes nie, maar het ook stof in die oë geskop van gewilde restaurante in Amerika, Europa en Asië, en die groot prys as nommer een op al die kontinente verower.
Die gebou is geleë op ondergrondse gange wat kilometers die binneland instrek, waar keramiek, volstruiseierdoppe, krale en klipartefakte ontdek is. Die 130 jaar oue gebou huisves sowat 20 gaste. Die spyskaart is uniek; dit sluit seekos, plaaslike skaap- en wildsvleis, aangevul met wilde kruie, seewiere uit plaaslike poele en kruie uit die tuin in. Die unieke styl by Wolfgat stel plaaslike geure aan besoekers voor. Behalwe vir die feit dat daar ‘n lang waglys is om daar te gaan eet, is die disse gerig op fynproewers.
Kos, en alles wat daarmee gepaardgaan, soos die voorbereiding, geselskap en stories, het ‘n vermoë om mense saam te bind. Om vriende deur ervaringe te sit wat vir altyd ingeëts bly in hulle geheue. Interessant hoeveel kookprogramme juis op die televisie is. Laat die potte prut, Kom ons braai, ensomeer. Dit skep ‘n gees van geselligheid, van betekenis, van vreugde, vir sowel die deelnemers as die kykers.
As ek, synde ‘n Hoëveldmannetjie, Weskusbewoner, en tans tydelike Namakwalandbewoner waar die Hardeveld, Boesmanland, Bitterfontein en Moedverloor bymekaar uitkom, nou ‘n restaurant moes oopmaak, wonder ek toe, wat sou ek aanbied wat die geure van my vroeëre lewe moet verteenwoordig? Ek het nie regtig al ‘n smaak aangeleer vir gekookte seebamboes en geroosterde seekat-tentakels nie. Die kronkels wat my lewe geloop het deur koshuise en die menasies van die SAW het my ongesofistikeerde kossmaak gepoleer en gevestig. Ratpacks laat my bek water, wat seewiersop nie regtig vir my doen nie. Daardie blikkies groente en boeliebief op ‘n esbit-stofie in die bos gaargemaak, en daardie plastieksakkies met melkskommel. Of die vrugte-energiestafies. Praat met my oor Trichardt se hoekkafee se Portugese tjips, olierig en sterk, en jy het onmiddelik my aandag.
Sê vir my ons eet stywe pap en wors en bone in tamatiesous, en ek is nou daar. Of lok my in ‘n wip in met ‘n bord basaarkerrie en rys. In Trichardt het ek een jaar tydens die kerkbasaar manalleen groot potte kerrie en rys gemaak, aangesien ek en die basaarkommissie verskillende uitgangspunte gehad het oor die behoefte in ons dag en tyd na kerrie en rys op ‘n basaar. Ek het, triomfanklik, die laaste skeppie kerrie en rys op die genoemde basaar verkoop.
Ik heb gezegd. Jy kan die man uit Springs uit kry, maar nooit Springs uit die man uit nie. Daardie heerlike aardse kosse is deel daarvan. Gerolde pannekoeke met kaneelsuiker. Dan sal ek natuurlik op my spyskaart sit: “Gereg van die dag”: skilpadjies en pofadder. Oftewel lewer in netvet en lewerwors. Saam met mieliepap en vleissous, onverbeterlik. En ook: kerrieafval en skaapkop. Mooi bruin gebak in ‘n oond met spierwit tande en blou oë wat jou verwytend aankyk. So uit die hartjie van die karoo. Soms, as ‘n toegif, waterblommetjiebredie met skaapstertjies. Net vir so ‘n Kaapse geurtjie.
Ek sou my restaurant oopmaak in ‘n ou, ongebruikte fabriek of winkel. (Darem deeglik skoongemaak en afgewit!) Kris Kristofferson, Leonard Cohen, Pink Floyd, Piet Botha, Koos Doep, Jacques Brel en Coenie de Villiers sou heeltyd op die agtergrond speel. Ek sou van tyd tot tyd uitroep: “Bly gou stil!”, en dan Highland Cathedral of Pavarotti kliphard speel. Terwyl die trane oor my wange rol oor al die goeie gisters van my lewe. En wee die een wat roer of fluister! Ons sou op pandjieswinkelstoele sit, by ou greinhouttafels wat ek oral opgetel en gerestoureer het, oorgetrek met plastiektafelkleedjies. Ons sou dooswyn gedrink het uit goedkoop PEP-glase, geskink uit glasbekers wat ek met ‘n gesofistikeerde en gemoduleerde Waterkloof- of Stellenbosch-pruilbek “kraffies” noem.
Ons sou stories vertel het van tafel tot tafel, en uit ons mage uit lag oor die stories uit die Karoo en Kalahari en Namakwaland. Tussendeur sou ons mondevol boerewors en lewer en lamskerrie en afval eet. Soos Jan S Rabie se drie kaalkoppe wat tesame eet. Ek sou my restourant nie Vive la France of La Campanella noem nie. Ek sal ‘n eenvoudige bord laat opsit: “Kom kuier saam! Hier is ons vreetsaam bymekaar, en gaan dik uitmekaar.”
The highly anticipated Sasol Secunda Marathon is fast approaching, and you can still be part of the action. The race is an official qualifier for the Comrades and Two Oceans marathons.
On Friday, 24 January 2025, Sasol hosted the 30th Grade 12 Merit Awards where bursaries and cash incentives were awarded to the class of 2024 top achievers. This annual event continues to reward outstanding achievers who obtain distinctions in Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics (STEM) and other non-STEM subjects.
This year, two bursaries were awarded on the day. Over and above that, 73 top achievers received an individual cash incentive which goes towards their university registration fees.
A total of 313 learners in the Standerton Sub-District, eManzana and Ehlanzeni fenceline schools received a cash award per distinction for achieving a minimum of 3 distinctions in identified subject.
To honour the role played by educators in ensuring excellent results, six best-performing subject teachers and nine best-performing schools were also recognised.
Recognising and celebrating excellent performance in education is part of Sasol’s ongoing efforts showcasing its firm belief that education is a fundamental input to transforming society.
The Sasol Grade 12 Merit Awards are a collaboration between Sasol, the Department of Basic Education, and this year’s supporting sponsors such as: MegChem, Osizweni Science Centre, Proconics, ROMPCO, eMbalenhle Girls, PDPS, Pinky Phosa Foundation, Digby Wells Environmental Consulting, Paradigm Shift Holdings, Thasasa (Pty) Ltd, Phakama Advertising, Minhel and Hydra Arc.
Sasol’s inclusive education initiatives are driven by a need to see meaningful change in society and contribute to our youth enabling them to have a socio-economically sustainable future.
The awards are just another way that Sasol demonstrates its commitment to actively driving education initiatives in South Africa.
THERE ARE NO GOOD EXCUSES FOR NOT KEEPING YOUR PETS SAFE IN YOUR YARD!
Every day, many lost dogs, or cat post goes up, even birds. Another frantic social media post circulates. Another animal ends up on the streets, vulnerable to traffic, predators, or worse. They may also become a nuisance to others, especially cats. Why? Because someone, somewhere, didn’t take the responsibility of pet ownership seriously enough to keep their animal safe. It is silly that I have to but I will add yes, there are some exceptions when animals get out, but the amount of animals out and about doesn’t share that story, it showcases a story of irresponsible owners. I am not even going down the avenue of the irresponsibility surrounding puppies/kittens or power breeds in the streets.
We understand that accidents happen and some animals are really escape artists, but one of the few reasons why animals get out is because IT IS EASY! You get climbers, runners, jumpers, diggers, chewers, some learn to open gates or some pets use a combination of the above. We have seen fox terriers climb trees to get out. Below we will share a solution for each!
But first, let me be clear on the following: Some people claim that they “have done everything” to keep the animal in…… IF YOUR ANIMAL IS IN THE STREET THEN YOU HAVE NOT DONE ALL YOU CAN TO KEEP THEM INSIDE. If you have, then they will not be in the streets. How do other people do it?
If your pet keeps escaping your yard, it’s not because they’re a mastermind worthy of a Hollywood heist movie. It’s because you’ve failed to put in the effort to make your yard secure enough. Sure, pets are curious and resourceful, but nine times out of ten, their escapes highlight owner shortcomings, not their genius (although I think many pets might be smarter than their owner).
And if you’re the type who’s shrugged off a neighbour’s complaint or ignored the dangers of a busy road nearby, ask yourself: Do you truly care about your pet’s wellbeing? Would you let a toddler wander onto the highway because they figured out how to open the gate? Or they know their way home. No, you wouldn’t. So why is it acceptable to leave your animal’s safety to chance?
As someone who is part of the lost and found animal team in our community, I am sick and tired, and this year will not be a year of asking nicely! During our whole “holiday” time and most weekends, our team members, and all the other organizations everywhere are running behind and worrying about someone else’s animals. This is 100% preventable and will lighten the load on animal welfare.
That is on top of the lousy excuses for giving up animals during this time of year (well any time). Mentally and physically, we start the year exhausted because someone else was irresponsible.
Thank you to those who pick up lost animals and keep them safe instead of dumping them on the already overwhelmed system, or expecting that someone else should do something. Thank you to those who already joined the foster network.
Pets are not wild animals; they rely on us to provide them with safe, controlled environments. A secure yard, a sturdy harness and leash, and a little common sense go a long way in preventing tragedy. If you’re too lazy or indifferent to do the bare minimum, then perhaps you should reconsider whether you’re fit to have animals at all.
ANIMALS DESERVE BETTER
At the end of the day, your pet’s safety is your responsibility. They didn’t choose you; you forced them to live in your world. So, stop making excuses and start making changes. Because the next time your pet gets out, they might not make it back. That is on you!
And how on earth do you not have a photo of your pet?
It’s time to do better. It’s not that hard. Read more here on whose animals deserve better.
Now, let’s look at some solutions so your pet doesn’t outsmart you.
ESCAPE-PROOF YOUR YARD AND KEEP YOUR PETS SAFE.
Secure your yard, but also take these PRECAUTIONS:
Sterilize your pets which helps reduce roaming.
Meet their needs in terms of enrichment (mentally, physically, etc).
Don’t leave them alone for too long or consider daycare.
Make your garden their happy place. (Sandpit, sensory garden, etc.)
Microchip them and register the microchip on more than one database.
Add a collar ID with your number on it.
For cats a break-away collar with ID tag.
Have a recent photo ready.
Get a responsible pet sitter when you are away.
When the garden services come, keep your pets inside.
If possible, keep them in your backyard, away from the street, or only in the front yard with supervision.
If your cleaner or gardener has a key, have a stern talk about keeping the gate closed.
Always check your yard for foreign objects and poisons that may endanger your pets.
Keep them away from gates & fences and out of sight to prevent theft.
Image from Petology
Petology provides guidelines to equip you with plausible methods to secure your yard and The Paw Company on how to keep your cats in. This can be possible with little investment and effort.
JUMPERS & CLIMBERS
Have large fences and high walls that can’t be easily climbed (no easy foothold).
Choose solid panel fences without anywhere for your dog to stick his/her paws.
Metal fence panels or palisades can work but you’ll need to make provisions to prevent them from digging under or slipping through.
Make sure there’s nothing near the wall/ fence that your dog can use to give themselves a boost, like planters, benches, birdbaths, garbage bins, etc.
Alternatively, you can add an extension to make the fence taller or you can install a 45-degree angle lean-in section (overhang) onto the upper part of your fence/wall with brackets. This tilts in to deter pets from getting over it.
Another alternative could be to add a roller bar (a.k.a Coyote rollers) made from PVC or Metal, which dogs’ paws can’t hold onto. Both angled fences and roller bars work well for keeping cats in or out too.
Image from Petology for jumpers
DIGGERS, CHEWERS & SLIP THROUGH-ERS
If you have palisades, you can add safe doggie bars that do not have sharp edges. You can also use a durable welded wire mesh overlay and secure it with cable ties. Not the plastic ones!
If they squeeze through or dig underneath you can buy or custom-make metal dig-defence barriers with spikes, which go deep into the ground. If your fence is secure, but not your gate, consider a gate plate.
You can pour a concrete footer along the perimeter of the fence and bury/mount the bottom of the fence into the mixture.
Install an L-Footer/skirt/apron along the bottom of the fence, facing inwards. You can use a wire mesh fence, hardware cloth, or a piece of chain-link fence attached to the base of the fence. Bury it so that it is not visible, or lay it on top of the grass and hold it down with pins/stakes, rocks, gravel, mulch, or even planters.
Some people use “bumper collars” which prevent the pet from slipping through, but I do not support this method.
Image from Petology for diggers, chewers & slip-throughers
RUNNERS
Runners are those who dash out of the yard as soon as the gate opens. This means you will have to get creative to keep them in and it might require more planning and effort, but the effort can never outweigh the safety of your pet.
In this case, you can consider getting the help of a qualified behaviourist/trainer. Rewarding good behaviour is more important instead of punishment or fear-based training. If you call them back and they come, give them a treat or lots of praise (not punishment)! Teach them to sit and wait, when the gate opens.
Try to limit their access to the driveway or main gate. You can install a double gate, which means you create an enclosed area in the yard. If someone wants to come in or out, they have to go through one gate, then the other gate.
You can use a temporary fence, portable playpen, enclosed area outside, or a kennel/run to put them in when you know the main gate will be opened.
If your housing arrangement does not allow the above, then lure your pet into the house when you know the gate will open.
As mentioned above, roller bars and angled fences work well for cats.
Use nets
Build a Catio
Plant certain species of plants that cats dislike, but which are not poisonous to cats. Some cats seem to dislike the smell of rue, lavender, pennyroyal, coleus canina, and lemon thyme. Some cats also seem to not like strong citrus cents.
Trim trees regularly and wrap them with plastic or PVC “dividers”, so they cannot climb high enough to get out.
If you really cannot apply any of the above, try creating a routine for your cat, for example, a lick of wet food in the morning to make sure they “check in” and again in the evening. Once they are in for the evening, close the doors/windows until the morning.
Create entertainment for your cats to keep them indoors more.
Invest in a good quality cat harness. Acclimatize your cat to the harness from a young age. With patience and persistence, older cats will also get used to it.
Image by The Paw Company
Remember to never punish your pets when they come back. This will not take away the desire to escape but will make them afraid of returning home. Always find out why your pets try to get out and address the root cause. If it is a behavioural issue, contact a qualified behaviourist. Remember there is a difference between a trainer and a behaviourist.
HALLOWEEN, VAMPIRE STORIES, AND THE PANDEMIC ALL ADDED TO A BAD REPUTATION FOR BATS, BUT WHEN YOU KNOW BETTER, YOU CAN HELP THESE SENTIENT BEINGS.
Many people come across young, injured, or grounded bats and wonder what to do with them. We have had at least three cases in the last week. Care and caution should be exercised and such cases should be referred to the nearest bat interest group, rehabilitation center, or the SPCA.
Urban development causes fewer suitable roost sites for bats, such as caves, dead trees, and natural cavities, thus forcing bats to seek alternative roosting sites making roofs and ceilings the next optimal site for many bat species. They are quiet animals, so you won’t even know they are there.
A bat found indoors is most likely to be a crevice-dwelling species. These bats are often lost youngsters that follow a mosquito into the house, babies that cannot fly yet, or grounded bats. We are in bat breeding season which runs from October until late February.
SOME BAT FACTS
Bats are clean animals and South African bats are odourless and appear not to carry rabies as we know it.
Bats can’t take off from the ground.
Bats are the only true flying mammal, with over 1,400 species in the world and more are still being discovered.
Bats usually only have one baby a year and can live for up to 30 years.
Bats play a crucial role in our ecosystem.
Some plants depend partly or wholly on bats to pollinate their flowers or spread their seeds.
Insectivorous bats provide natural pest control. A tiny pipistrelle can eat up to 3,000 insects in a night. They keep mosquitos at bay too!
Other species play a vital role in pollinating crops and Indigenous vegetation, being of great value to the agricultural sector – thanks to bats we get bay-adapted plants – which include dates, vanilla, bananas, breadfruit, guavas, Iroko timber, balsa wood, sisal, Tequila and chewing gum!
Some bats are ‘indicator species’ because changes to these bat populations can indicate changes in aspects of biodiversity. Bats might suffer when there are problems with insect populations.
You can’t relocate bats, you might be able to exclude (“lock out”) them from the house, but it isn’t advised as you can never be certain that all the babies are out too! Thus, trapping them inside and their parents out which leads to starvation.
The young babies do not have fur yet and have a “rubber” appearance. They are called pinkies. During the first few weeks, the pups can’t fly yet and still drink from their mom.
Collect them in a soft cloth and try not to touch them with your hands.
Secure them in a box or ice-cream tub (with air holes) which can seal properly as they are escape artists.
Any bat found should be kept warm because they might be in shock. Pups can’t regulate their body temperature yet (no fur) and therefore won’t necessarily move away from the heat and can burn themselves. Warm tap water in a bottle, covered with a towel/cloth is best.
Call a rehabilitator as you might not be equipped to feed them, release them, or see whether they are injured. Rehabilitators will ask for photos and videos.
We do not recommend placing bat pups back into roosts (controversy):
The mother bat may be dead.
Several species of bat may roost under the same roof, placing the pup in the wrong roost may get them killed.
The mother bat may have twins or triplets and has chosen to abandon one as resources may not enable her to raise all the babies.
REUNITE WITH MOM
Mom is what is best for them, so reuniting them, with the guidance of a rehabilitator, is ideal! Do this as close as possible to where you found them.
Some use ladders with the open container (secured to the ladder) on top, with a cloth and warm water bottle in the bottom, and then the pup under another cloth, without the lid. Mom needs to be able to land on a firm surface that is rough enough like a towel thrown over a wall, balcony railing, or ladder.
Try this for one or two consecutive nights for an hour or two at dusk, depending on the weather. If it didn’t happen the first night, chances are low for the second night. The pup needs to be warm or they won’t call for their mom.
Please watch the pup collection site, so that predators (like cats or owls) don’t come and collect the pup.
Screenshot from a video on setting up a ladder to reunite mom & pup.
A BAT IN YOUR HOME (NSPCA)
Close any doors to contain the bat in a single room or space.
Open all the doors and windows in that area, as wide as possible.
Turn on any outside lights.
Turn off the lights in the room.
Stay in the room, sit down, relax, and watch the bat. If you don’t, you will not know if they actually left, landed, or is resting somewhere.
Do not try to guide the bat with a broom, tennis racket, etc.
Bats do not want to get in your hair!
The bat, if allowed to, will navigate their way out using the light outside and the draft created by the open window or door.
This may take 20 minutes or more.
Image by BATS KZN Emergency Helpline (Scan QR code to join)
GROUNDED BATS
Adult bats should also be handled with care (no bare hands) and kept warm. If the bat has landed somewhere and is in good health, it may be captured and released outside after sunset as close as possible to where they were found. Approach your visitor very slowly and quietly. Gently place a can or box over the bat, slide cardboard underneath, and release your visitor outside at dusk, placing it on a high surface where it will be able to take off.
If bitten by your cat or dog there is a danger of infection and death, even if they flew off. You can add a bell to your cat’s collar or keep them inside around sunset hours to prevent this. Call a rehabilitator or wildlife vet to treat the injured bat.
Bats can’t take off from the ground, they need to “drop” from a height (at least 1.5m). As they’re falling, they get the wind under their wings to fly.
DON’T FEED THEM without a rehabilitator’s guidance.
It is our natural instinct to want to feed them and with good intent, however, in general, we don’t advise giving food or water until you speak to a rehabilitator.
Although small, bats have a large body surface due to their wingspan and can easily dehydrate. When they are dehydrated, they can’t digest food properly. They have tiny mouths and can easily choke or aspirate, especially when in shock. If you are inexperienced with liquid therapy and feeding, you can potentially kill them. Stress also remains a big killer of wildlife when handled.
Depending on the size, the rehabilitator will guide you on what kind of food. This can range from kitty milk(for tiny pups) with a syringe, mealworms, bananas, etc. If you have to give water to a bat that can drink themselves already, a shallow jam jar lid can work.
Image from Johannesburg Wildlife Vet (Facebook)
REMEMBER
Never disturb a roost.
It’s illegal to harm them.
Don’t poison or kill them – they might be the last of their specie!
Never wake bats found during hibernation as waking requires a huge amount of energy which may be more than the bat can afford to survive.
Don’t fear them.
DON’T KILL THE BATS BECAUSE YOU ARE UNINFORMED! It is important to note that according to The National Institute For Communicable Diseases there are no rabies viruses reported in bats in South Africa. There are, however, “rabies-like” viruses reported rarely in some species of bats and have related to two human rabies cases in South Africa in the past 40 years.
Also, read more on what to do if you find other wildlife.
Young, vibrant and confident may be used to describe Rachel Pearson.
This grade 11 student is an inspiration to everyone she meets.
Rachel entered the Miss + Miss Teen Glam South Africa and became a finalist.
The competition celebrates the beauty and strength of pageantry. They believe pageantry provides positive growth and helps shape lives. Pageantry is not a one-time event or competition, rather, it is a journey of empowerment, growth, trial and joy which yields lifelong connections and opportunities.
She is incredibly talented and has a special place for music singing in the school choir at Laerskool Goedehoop and playing Saxophone in Hoorskool Oosterland’s band. She became the South African School Band Association (SASBA) Sax Player in 2022.
Rachel also enjoys dancing and dances at CF Els Dancing school where she achieved Mpumalanga colours and 1st SA for Latin and NRG
She is very passionate about • self-Love and confidence • Inspiring others • Family • Dancing • Hockey • Fitness and Health • Walk for Freedom Activist • Academics • Balanced Lifestyle • Being a role model • Medicine
She hopes to be able to study medicine and has a special interest in prosthetics.
Rachel needs your support though, in becoming Miss Teen Glam South Africa.
Your votes are needed. The votes are R5 each and can be done by depositing into the competition’s bank account.
Vote By Depositing To Bank: Standard Bank Account: 1015 101 3223 (R20 = 5 Votes, R100 = 25 Votes, R200 = 50 Votes, R300 = 75 Votes)
Reference: Finalist Name + Surname Proof of Payment to 078 393 9740
Let us stand together and help her achieve this goal.
DA questions the sub-standard steel bridge that was delivered to the community of Lebohang
The DA in Govan Mbeki is taken aback at the sub-standard bridge that the municipality delivered to the residents of Lebohang in Ward 6.
Earlier today, the municipality announced that they had built a new footbridge for the residents of this area. According to the municipality, this bridge is supposed to help schoolchildren and other pedestrians cross a river in this community.
With the recent downpours, the residents of Lebohang have been unable to move around as the river has filled. Therefore, a stable bridge that would alleviate these challenges is crucial.
“It is concerning to note that the steel bridge that was built for this community is not up to standard. We note with concern that there is no foundation to support this bridge, and the bridge is unhinged on both ends,” said Nathiswa Ndwanyaza – DA Councilor Govan Mbeki Local Municipality, “On the river’s banks, there is heavy soil erosion which will likely lead to a collapse of the bridge during times of heavy rain. Overall, this is a huge safety risk for the community of Lebohang.”
“The workmanship on this project is of poor quality. It is quite evident that the municipality did not receive value for the money on this project. This shows that the municipality, particularly the ANC-led administration is negligent.”
“We have submitted questions to the Municipal Manager, Elliot Maseko, asking him to detail the risk assessment undertaken when this bridge was erected and the money spent on this project,” said Ndwanyaza, “The DA will continue fighting the ANC’s maladministration, Govan Mbeki is financially unstable because of such projects. We will ensure that the municipality takes accountability and delivers a well-decent bridge to the community of Lebohang.”
The Municipality meanwhile, responded to the negative criticism it received on its initial post claiming that “Residents of Lebohang, Ward 6, under Cllr Oupa Sibanyoni, praised the Govan Mbeki Municipality for building a new footbridge.”
But first some comments from the original posting on GMM’s Facebook page:
A bridge without any supportive structure, if there are heavy rains again the soil on the sides will get eroded then that bridge will collapse, or Nyawupe boys will just carry it to the scrap yard within a few weeks
I start to wonder if screening of project review is done in our municipal departments. Tell me why you would just place this steel bridge onto the mud without proper mounting, including but not limited to civil work.
You guys are not even ashamed of posting on how you chowed money….am sure it cost 10m to place that waywalk
That surface is unsafe in heavy rain bridge will collapse
Good work but I’m worried about the size of the bridge it’s too close to the riverbank. At least if it is a few meters away from the river on both sides
Our municipality doesn’t have skilled problem solvers. Their approach to problem-solving is always premised on a TEMPORARY basis!!!!
GMM’s response:
The Govan Mbeki Municipality is taking note of all the comments from the public regarding the material used in the construction of the footbridge.
The municipality hereby informs the public that the structure of the bridge is not permanent and is currently sourcing materials to construct a permanent strong and elevated bridge.
The crossing was a temporary measure for children to cross as the pipes that were installed were flooded and taken away by water.
The municipality is going to install 1050 mm pipes as soon as the water subsides to the level where it is easy to work.
The work is expected to start as early as Monday, pending the amount of rain we can get during the weekend.
The municipality values all the inputs, comments, and suggestions made and is committed to making things better for the community it serves.
“The response by GMM appears to be an attempt to contain the bad publicity that the bridge received. Although the bridge is needed no real thought was put into it and it is a dangerous hazard if the rains continue as it did the past few days.” said Ndwanyaza
YOUR PETS CAN BE HEALTHIER AND HAPPIER IN 2025 WITH SOME OR ALL OF THESE PAWSOME PET NEW YEAR’S RESOLUTIONS!
A new year brings new goals and more than 300 days of opportunity for you and your pet to bond, develop healthier habits, and discover new ways to live a full life. Your pet can live a better tomorrow with your help. An important first step is to avoid becoming overwhelmed thinking you need to make big changes overnight. Baby steps in the right direction are the way to go. The important thing is to create a plan and move steadily forward.
This week we look at the final part in this three-part series on how to have healthier and happier pets in 2025! Also, read PART 1 & PART 2 of these pawsome New Year’s resolutions.
CREATE A SAFE ENVIRONMENT & A SPACE THAT IS ONLY THEIRS
Keep toxic substances like medications, cleaning or gardening products, alcohol, and poisonous plants out of reach.
Just because a pet shop or vet sells something, doesn’t make it safe. Buy safe bedding and toys made of natural material without strong smells.
Clean their food and water bowls daily. We prefer stainless steel bowls to plastic.
Be careful about cleaning products, non-stick pans, air fresheners, perfumes, and candles that can affect your pets.
Resolve to take the time to safely secure your dog in the car on all car trips, regardless of the length of the journey. Never leave them alone in a car!
Make sure there is proper shelter from all the elements.
Have a safe space in your home that belongs to them.
CREATE A PET-FRIENDLY GARDEN
Since our pets spend the most time at home or in the garden, we should do our best to build them safe, entertaining places to rest and play. Make sure all potentially harmful plants or substances are out of reach. Create some nice hiding places and vertical territory for your pets to enjoy and explore. Learn more about zoo pharmacognosy, which allows your pet to self-select remedies that best soothe them, especially during periods of anxiety.
OPEN A SAVINGS ACCOUNT FOR PET EMERGENCIES OR GET PET INSURANCE
Be better prepared for the unexpected. This is a healthy habit and can save you a lot of worries later. Pet owners can now choose from a variety of pet insurance plans that meet their needs and fit every budget. Read more on the pros and cons of pet insurance.
WRITE A BUCKET LIST FOR SENIOR PETS
What do you think your senior pet wants to do before crossing the Rainbow Bridge? You can make the last phase of your pet’s life memorable by compiling and completing a list of activities that will have their tail wagging and your heart soaring. Prepare in advance to navigate the Rainbow Bridge journey and make the tough but kind decision to euthanize your pet.
Pet New Year’s Resolutions – Image by The Paw Company
Editorial note – This article is a reprint from 17 January 2024.
DO SOME COMMUNITY/PHILANTHROPY WORK FOR ANIMALS IN NEED
adopt or foster a pet
donate to a rescue or shelter
donate pet products like beds, towels, bowls, leashes, collars or food
volunteer at a shelter
say thank you to the rescuers (and a vet)
take a shelter dog for a walk
sign a few petitions to help us save more animals
share lost and found animal posts to improve their chances of being reunited with their owners
join a specific cause like “stop fireworks”, “say no to the circus” or sterilizations campaigns
BALANCE YOUR MOOD (ENERGY)
Animals can pick up on our energies. We see how sensitive animals are to our emotional state. They get excited when we are or try to comfort you if you are down by climbing on your lap. If you’re continuously agitated or angry when you come home, this could negatively affect your pet’s emotional state. Maybe a good New Year’s resolution idea this year is to learn how to have balanced energy before coming home to see your furry family. Even though a walk might do you good, maybe not attempt it on a day that you are angry or frustrated or not in the mood because you might ruin the experience for your pet.
Keep in mind that barking, humping, and digging for example are natural behaviours, but don’t allow your pet to do things if it frustrates you as this will not be good for either of you. There are alternative and healthy ways to deal with such natural behaviours.
FIND A GOOD PET SITTER
Identify what type of pet sitter service you need. Start your search as soon as possible, ask for referrals, and interview potential sitters. For us, a big factor (apart from being trustworthy) is someone who has training in pet first aid (behaviour and grooming are a bonus) and who has professional documentation (forms and terms & conditions). List your pet sitter at your vet. Read more on this topic.
ADOPT DON’T SHOP
If you are planning to get a new pet, please do your homework in advance about the specie and their needs. It is important that the animal and breed you choose fit with your family’s energy levels and lifestyle. Please do not support breeders who fuel this massive overpopulation crisis, so opt to adopt from reputable organizations that include home checks, a contract, and sterilization.
Only visit True Sanctuaries and say no to those that offer animal rides, interaction, walking with, petting, or taking photos with the animals.
Use your birthday to raise donations for a reputable animal shelter by asking friends and families to donate or let your wedding registry be donated to an animal shelter.
Organize a community clean-up because plastic and other trash are harmful to the environment and animals.
Support the life in your backyard like the small ecosystems, and animals and insects that live around your home.
Say no to pesticides and poisons because poisoning rats and other animals influences the natural food chain.
Choose to wear it kind by buying and wearing clothing ethically. Avoid leather, fur, and wool, and try sustainable, animal-friendly alternatives because their lives matter! Don’t buy products that are tested on animals. You can find the approved beauty brands in the Humane Guide.
EDUCATE & ADVOCATE
This is one we really want you to help us with! Try and share an educational post about animals regularly to help others learn more about animal care and welfare. Advocate for the voiceless and the unheard, especially about topics like breeding, selling, petting farms, the circus, and fireworks.
FINALLY, CREATE A PLAN
Almost done. You have your pet and you have decided to make some pet-positive changes in the new year. You even have some great ideas now for pawsome resolutions. To execute these resolutions though, there needs to be detailed goals and an easy plan to follow every day. It is important to create a plan that you can stick to. Consider asking a friend to check in with you and make sure you are keeping to those resolutions. Maybe start a calendar and write down the days and the goals. The most important part…..get excited!
Do you have a New Year’s resolution for your pet? Are you sticking to them?
Join us again next week as we explore the world of our pets and how to make it better!
To the Class of 2024, well done, your hard work has finally paid off. We are proud of your achievements.
To those learners who have not succeeded in their examinations and do not qualify for supplementary examination, we encourage you to re-enrol at a school without delay.
At Sasol, we believe that education is fundamental in transforming our society. Our interventions in education are driven by a need to see meaningful change in society, and prepare our youth for a future which will enable them to be socio-economically sustainable.
Sasol also offers programmes aimed at improving the teaching and learning of science, mathematics and technology through Osizweni Science Centre. Bursaries and programmes such as #BridgetoWork are also available to those who qualify. Be on the lookout for these education and skills development programmes on local media platforms and our Sasol website.
@Sasol is a caring sponsor of the annual Grade 12 Merit Awards and urges you to visit the Sasol website: www.sasol.com to search for available opportunities.
