Hartman Industrial Equipment found guilty and sentenced for fraud
MPUMALANGA: On Tuesday, 15 August 2023, the Evander Regional Court found a company guilty and sentenced the company, Hartman Industrial Equipment, based in Secunda for Fraud
The sentence followed an investigation conducted and finalised by the Hawks Secunda-based Serious Commercial Crime Investigation.
It is alleged that in December 2020, the company Hartman Industrial Equipment had an agreement with Sasol to supply equipment called Actuators, which were manufactured by Festos. Hartman company provided the equipment that was manufactured by Omal and not Festos as agreed. For all orders received, Sasol paid an amount of R734 346-50.
After the investigation, J175 was issued for the company and the two Directors, Charles Sydney Hendry Hartman and Eulene Hartman. On 06 May 2022, they were all charged for fraud.
The accused appeared in court on several occasions, and the date for sentencing was scheduled for 15 August 2023 at Evander Regional Court. During sentencing, the court withdrew the charges against the directors and sentenced the company as follows: The Company was sentenced to: R600000 fine, wholly suspended for five years. The company was further ordered to pay an amount of R10 000 to the SPCA.
The Provincial Head of the Hawks Major General Gerber applauded the Investigators and the prosecution team for the good work. The General further said,’’ There is no one above the Law. We shall continue to investigate all fraud cases without fear and favour. He concluded’’.
Police urge anyone with any information on Crime to call the Crime Stop number at 08600 10111. Alternatively, members of the public can send information via MYSAPSAPP. All received information will be treated as confidential and callers may opt to remain anonymous.
UT IF YOU ARE CONTRIBUTING TO THE MASSIVE ANIMAL OVERPOPULATION CRISIS.
Millions of animals are taken in by shelters and unfortunately, millions are euthanized annually. From the little available statistics, which is likely an underestimation, 2800 healthy animals are euthanized (humanely killed) in SA DAILY! That is not on the shelters!
Although we believe that any shelter including, SPCAs should do everything they can to find a home for all the animals, the sad reality is that we have a massive overpopulation crisis, so what do you expect them to do with all those who don’t find a home? There are just not enough homes and we are not even talking about good homes; they are even less. Shelters do not have unlimited space and resources. I don’t know 70 people who want to adopt, do you?
There is also a misconception that only dogs and cats end up in shelters but there are many rescue organizations for birds, rabbits, and other animals who are neglected, abused, or discarded by people who have bought them. There is basically a breed-specific rescue for every breed and the “purebreds” in shelters have drastically increased in the last few years. Some stats say 1 in every 4 animals at shelters is “purebred”. Even if they are not, where do you think the cross that looks like a Jack Russell came from?
Many shelters are scared to share the statistics, but we think it is extremely necessary so that people can wake up and smell the blood on the public’s hands! By law, the SPCA cannot turn any animal away. Yes, they cannot say no. They cannot say “Sorry we are full”. They have to make a plan and take them in. Even if they could turn them away, they wouldn’t as we know where they will inevitably end up. If the SPCA or other shelters did not offer this service, who will? Where will all the animals go?
I am a pro-life advocate, but I also understand that it is inhumane to keep an animal in a kennel indefinitely. Sadly, some breeds like Jack Russell (a common breed in shelters) and others, can develop kennel stress when being in kennels for long. Even though there are strategies to help minimize this, it is no guarantee. Keeping these animals in the kennels after this happens is cruel. Shelters also don’t always have the resources to train an aggressive dog or to bottle feed newborn kittens. This is why we need to community to help!
BREEDERS. I do not distinguish between breeders, puppy mills, backyard breeders or those who had accidental litters. They all create this problem and no breeding can be responsible when we have to kill thousands of healthy animals a day.
PET SHOPS/animal dealers/brokers also exploit animals for financial gain and fuel the crisis. The pet industry in South Africa is not regulated. Pet shops do not promote responsible pet ownership (sterilizations, home checks, etc.), but make their profits off impulse buying and treating animals as commodities. They promote the indiscriminate breeding of animals as these animals are not sterilized.
FREE TO “GOOD HOME” ADS. This is usually from those who didn’t care enough to sterilize their pets or who just give their pets away due to inconvenience. Darling, you have no clue what a good home looks like! You give this “life” to any Tom, Dick & Harry who can abuse, breed, use them in dog fights, or do whatever with them. There are animal dealers/brokers trained to fool you. Some can even have FB profiles that look like animal lovers. Trailers of puppies reaching borders are a reality. Read more on this here.
DUMPING OR ABANDONMENT (which is a crime by the way). There are those that give their unsterilized pets to their domestic worker or garden man or dump them in the streets and rural areas. These people are creating a problem in the rural settlements where people do not even have food for themselves or money to fence off their yards. Then you get those cruel people who move and leave the pets behind.
IRRESPONSIBLE OWNERS. This includes those that do not sterilize their pets or let them roam the streets. Those that do not take proper care of their pets or those who hoard them. Those that get pets, but can’t afford them, so they end up at shelters anyway.
LOCAL BYLAWS. Municipal bylaws are not adequate and do not address sufficiently the overbreeding of animals – no legislation forces owners of pets to have them sterilized. (Apart from the City of Cape Town more recently)
Shelters are full to capacity and on a daily basis, many animals take their final walk to be humanely killed because:
people do not sterilize their pets and they had a litter!
people move and didn’t include their pets in the plans!
people support free to good home ads!
people support pet shops and animal dealers!
people keep breeding and supporting breeders!
you abandon them when the animal you bred with is of no use to you anymore!
people chose a pet that didn’t suit their lifestyle!
people abandoned pets!
people are too lazy to seek behavioural experts or to stimulate/exercise their pets!
“suddenly” someone in the home became allergic!
you had a baby and want to get rid of your dogs because you are the only person in the world to have a baby and dogs at the same time!
you got a brand-new puppy and your old dog that you’ve had for 16 years struggle to adjust, so you want to get rid of the old one !
your little puppy has grown up and is no longer small and cute and you want to trade it in for a new model!
your old dog has had years of being tugged at and jumped on by your children, and now the dog is sore and arthritic he has shown his teeth so you need rid of him right away instead of teaching your kids how to behave!
your dog is sick and need a vet but you need the money for your holiday!
your dog doesn’t like your new partner!
you suddenly have no time for your dog!
you don’t want the responsibility to euthanize your old or sick pet!
you didn’t realize that having a pet takes some work!
you are going on holiday, yes people do convenience euthanization!
your pet keeps outsmarting you and getting out of your yard and you would rather get rid of them than spend money on securing your yard. The same goes for cats!
Large-scale and compulsory STERILIZATION campaigns.
EDUCATION (yes even your share of this article)
STRICTER LAWS and PROPER ENFORCEMENT.
ADOPT DON’T SHOP MENTALITY.
HOW YOU CAN HELP
Everyone has a way in which they can contribute to this fight:
Volunteer/foster – spend time at a local animal shelter or organization so you have a better understanding of what is happening out there.
Donate if you can and especially towards sterilization and education programs.
Adopt if you are in a position to get a pet.
Educate others and share posts.
Advocate, take part in protests, and sign petitions.
Sterilise your pets and keep them safe in your yard.
Don’t support breeders, pet shops or any sale and free ads for animals.
So, there is a sad reality caused by a massive overpopulation crisis because of breeders, pet shops, irresponsible owners, and more. The shelters and their staff and volunteers are not to blame for this and they just cannot keep all the animals.
I do hope that in my lifetime I could live in a world where no healthy animal is euthanized due to lack of space, lack of homes, or lack of resources available. The burden of this crisis and war that we are fighting against overpopulation, is not to be carried on the shoulders of only a small group of people across the world, who are prepared to sacrifice so much because they are not ignorant of the reality of what is going on around them. It is something that everyone who has ever loved an animal has to accept as their fight too.
As the season changes, some allergies might rear its head. Next week we will look at some allergy tips and advice for your pets.
COUNTERFEIT GOODS WORTH ABOUT R1.5 MILLION SEIZED AT LEBOMBO PORT OF ENTRY
Voice clip by Brigadier Mohlala
Nelspruit: 22 August 2023 – The partnership between members of the South African Police Service Border Policing and South African Revenue Services (SARS) led to the recovery of counterfeit goods worth more than R1.5 Million at Lebombo Port of Entry this morning Tuesday, 22 August 2023 at about 07h00 am.
It is alleged that the Mozambican articulated Freightliner truck valued at about R2 Million tried to gain entry into the Republic of South Africa with counterfeit luggage of Jeans and sneakers which is worth around R1 503 000 prior to being intercepted by law enforcement agencies.
The driver somehow got away, leaving behind the truck with the luggage.
Both the truck and the luggage were confiscated and further investigation is being conducted in conjunction with Interpol to trace the owners of the truck as well as those who were behind the smuggling of the goods.
The public is urged to assist with information that may assist in the investigation, including details on the whereabouts of the driver who evaded the arrest, by calling the Crime Stop number at 08600 10111. Alternatively, members of the public can send information via MYSAPSAPP. All received information will be treated as confidential and callers may opt to remain anonymous.
Meanwhile, the Provincial Commissioner of the SAPS in Mpumalanga, Lieutenant General Semakaleng Daphney Manamela has commended the law enforcers that brought about this success. “Day by day criminals try their luck to cripple the economy of the Republic, however thanks to the dedication displayed by members. We, therefore, reassure the public that we will continue to clamp down on illicit operations,” said the General.
The following appeared on Alarabiya News. The full article can be read HERE.
Other than developing economic relations and trade infrastructure, one of the most pressing issues on the summit’s agenda is BRICS’ expansion, with several nations from Asia, Africa and Europe vying to join the bloc.
While the group’s stance on expansion is divided – China and Russia have embraced it, but India remains opposed to Beijing’s plans – as many as 40 countries have reportedly shown interest in joining the bloc formally or informally. These include Algeria, Belarus, Saudi Arabia, UAE, Iran, Indonesia, Argentina, Ethiopia and Egypt.
Another item on the bloc’s agenda that has gained traction and attracted media headlines is the push from BRICS to conduct more cross-border trade in local currencies to reduce the group’s reliance on the US dollar.
Several reports of a new BRICS’ currency also emerged in the months preceding the summit, with some economic experts claiming that the economic bloc may, in the future, push for de-dollarization – reducing the US dollar’s dominance in global trade and finance.
However, according to a Bloomberg report, South Africa’s ambassador to the bloc, Anil Sooklal, said there are no plans to discuss replacing the US dollar.
Maatskaplike werk, wie is verantwoordelik en waar?
Die rubriek het sy debuut gemaak bykans 2 weke gelede, die hoop is dat dit darem julle nuuskierigheid oor die beroep van maatskaplike werkers so ‘n bietjie geprikkel het. Daar is in die eerste artikel slegs aan die punt van die ysberg geraak met die inleiding oor maatskaplike werkers en kinderbeskerming. Vandag se artikel is meer gefokus op Maatskaplike Werk in Secunda.
Elke kinderbeskermingsorganisasie het hulle eie diensarea. Dit beteken die kind se adres, die plek waar hy of sy woon, bepaal by watter organisasie ‘n mens jou bekommernis oor ‘n spesifieke kind aanmeld. Tutela Family Care Secunda is verantwoordelik vir Secunda, Kinross, Adullam, Charl Cilliers, plase tussen die N17-watertorings en Bethal-tolhek en die plase Syferfontein en Holfontein. RataSocial Services Secunda is verantwoordelik vir Trichardt, Secunda uitbreiding 22 en 23, en Lebohang uitbreiding 1 tot 7. Die ander areas word onderskeidelik deur SAVF Secunda en die Departement van Maatskaplike Ontwikkeling gedek.
Voordat jy ‘n aanmelding kan maak, moet jy die volgende inligting bekom:
Die kind (of kinders) se naam en van
Die adres waar die kind woon
Die kontakbesonderhede van die kind se ouers (indien beskikbaar)
Die naam van die skool wat die kind bywoon
Jy moet ook kan verduidelik waarom jy oor die kind of kinders bekommerd is.
Hoe meer inligting jy het, hoe makliker kan die statutêre maatskaplike werker die saak ondersoek.
Wie moet aanmeldings maak?
Ingevolge die Kinderwet 38 van 2005 hoofstuk 7, artikel 110 (a) is alle persone wat met kinders werk wetlik verplig om vermeende kindermishandeling aan te meld:
Enige persoon (korrektiewe beampte, tandarts, homopaat, immigrasiebeampte, arbeidsinspekteur, regspraktisyn, mediese praktisyn, vroedvrou, predikant, verpleegster, arbeidsterapeut, fisioterapeut, sielkundige, geestelike leier, persoon in ‘n maatskaplikewerkberoep, maatskaplike werker, spraakterapeut, onderwyser, tradisionele gesondheidspraktisyn, tradisionele leier of personeellid of vrywillige werker by ‘n sorgfasiliteit of fasiliteit waar kinders gedeeltelike sorg ontvang, inloopsentrum of kinder- en jeug sorgsentrum) wat vermoed (op redelike gronde tot die gevolgtrekking kom) dat ‘n kindfisies beseer, seksueel misbruikof doelbewus verwaarloos is of word, moet daardie vermoede/gevolgtrekking op die voorgeskrewe vorm by die aangewese kinderbeskermingsorganisasie, die provinsiale Departement van Maatskaplike Ontwikkeling of ‘n polisiebeampte aanmeld. [Aanhaling is aangepas ter wille van duidelikheid.]
Artikel 110 (2) van die Kinderwet maak dit duidelik dat ENIGE persoon wat kindermishandeling vermoed wetlik verplig is om dit by die relevante organisasie aan te meld:
Enige persoon wat op redelike gronde glo dat ‘n kind sorg en beskerming benodig MOET daardie oortuiging by die provinsiale Departement van Maatskaplike Ontwikkeling, ‘n aangewese kinderbeskermingsorganisasie of ‘n polisiebeampte aanmeld.
As jy vermoed ‘n kind word verwaarloos, aangerand of misbruik en jy meld nie jou vermoede by ‘n kinderbeskermingsorganisasie aan nie, dan oortree jy die Kinderwet.
So wat presies moet jy doen as jy vermoed dat ‘n kind in gevaar is, verwaarloos, aangerand of misbruik word? Artikel 110 (3) van die Kinderwet gee die antwoord op dié vraag:
Enige persoon na wie in subartikel (1) en (2) hier bo verwys is, moet daardie gevolgtrekking of oortuiging aan die provinsiale Departement van Maatskaplike Ontwikkeling, ‘n aangewese kinderbeskermingsorganisasie of polisiebeampte bewys. Iemand wat so ‘n vermoede in goeie trou aanmeld, sal nie blootgestel word aan siviele eise op grond van die aanmelding nie.
Artikel 110(3)(b) van die Kinderwysigingswet (No.41 van 2007) maak dit baie duidelik dat jy nié in die moeilikheid sal beland (siviel aanspreeklik gehou word) as jy in goeie trou aanmeld dat ‘n kind beskerming benodig en dit later blyk dat jou vermoede verkeerd was nie. Jy kan wel in die moeilikheid beland as jy weet of vermoed dat ‘n kind beskerming benodig en dit nie by ‘n kinderbeskermingsorganisasie aanmeld nie.
Statutêre maatskaplike werkers probeer te alle tye om die gesinsisteem in plek te hou, daarom sal hulle nie ‘n kind uit sy of haar gesin verwyder as die kind nie in onmiddellike gevaar is nie. Alle maatskaplike werkers is ingevolge die Kinderwet (No.38 van 2005) verplig om eers alles wat moontlik is te doen om die huishouding te stabiliseer voordat hulle dit oorweeg om ‘n kind uit die huisgesin te verwyder. Die proses kan soms tydsaam en oneffektief voel, maar dit is belangrik om deernis te hê en geduldig te wees. Soos in die vorige artikel genoem, is die maatskaplike werkers net so gefrustreerd met die stelsel as lede van die gemeenskap wat verwag dat iets vinnig gedoen moet word om ‘n kind te help.
Wanneer ‘n kind verwyder moet word, moet daar natuurlik ‘n veilige plek wees waar die kind kan gaan bly. Dit is soms amper onmoontlik om so ‘n veilige plek te vind omdat die kinderhuise en plekke van veiligheid vol is en nie plek het vir nuwe innames nie.
In die volgende artikel word daar in meer diepte verduidelik hoe jy ‘n bydrae kan lewer om die druk op die stelsel te verminder sodat kinders vinniger gehelp kan word.
Kontakbesonderhede van kinderbeskermingsorganisasies in Secunda
Tutela Family Services Secunda: 079 310 2599
Rata Social Services Secunda: 081 216 8976 / 064 830 5055
SAVF Secunda: 074 212 5336
Departement van Maatskaplike Ontwikkeling (DSD) Secunda: 084 444 0805
Indien jy steeds onseker is waar jy vermeende kindermishandeling of -verwaarlosing moet aanmeld in die streek van Mpumalanga- & KZN Noord, kontak gerus vir Solidariteit Helpende Hand Maatskaplike werker – Marla Louw by 066 120 4406 of marla@helpendehand.co.za.
Indien jy steeds onseker is waar jy vermeende kindermishandeling of -verwaarlosing moet aanmeld in die streek van Mpumalanga- & KZN Noord, kontak gerus vir Solidariteit Helpende Hand Maatskaplike werker – Marla Louw by 066 120 4406 of marla@helpendehand.co.za.
RABBITS ARE NOT EVERYONE’S KIND OF PET AND HERE IS WHY
While rabbits can make wonderful and charming pets for the right individuals, several factors contribute to the idea that having rabbits as pets may not be advised for everyone. It’s important to note that each pet and species has specific needs and considerations, and what might not be suitable for one person could be a perfect fit for another. Before we dig in, I have to mention that we do not support the keeping of exotic animals as pets or keeping animals in cages.
REASONS WHY HAVING RABBITS AS PETS MIGHT NOT BE ADVISED FOR EVERYONE
Complex Care Requirements: Rabbits have unique care needs that can be more complex than some other small pets. They require specific diets, housing, and socialization to ensure their well-being. Without proper care, rabbits can develop health issues that might be challenging to manage. Their sleeping patterns differ from humans and they can be very busy at night.
Diet: Their dietary requirements are not so straight forward and many do not understand this. One example about their diet which most owners don’t know is that carrots are to rabbits like sweets are to a child.
Social Nature: Rabbits are social animals that thrive on companionship. Keeping a single rabbit can lead to loneliness and behavioural problems. Having a pair of rabbits is often recommended, but this also requires careful introductions and monitoring.
Destructive Behaviour: Rabbits are natural chewers, and they can cause damage to furniture, cords, and other items if not provided with appropriate toys and outlets for their chewing behaviour.
Gentle Handling: Rabbits are prey animals and can be easily frightened. They require gentle and patient handling to build trust and prevent stress. Rabbits have fragile skeletons and a powerful kick and this means they can easily break their backs even with a kick, especially if not held correctly. See proper handling tips below.
Health Concerns: Rabbits are prone to various health issues, such as dental problems, digestive disorders, and respiratory infections. Regular veterinary care and attention are crucial to keep them healthy. They do not vocalize discomfort as much as a chinchilla or a dog. They can be in severe pain and busy dying and will still be absolutely silent.
Allergies and Sensitivities: Some people may have allergies to bunnies or their bedding. In most cases it is a hay-allergy, but there is no way around it as hay is a must-have for bunnies. It’s important to consider potential allergies within the household.
Long Lifespan: Rabbits have a relatively long lifespan, often around 8 to 12 years or even longer. This commitment should be carefully considered before bringing a rabbit into your home.
Educational Requirements: Many people are not fully aware of the specific needs and behaviours of rabbits. Proper education and research are essential to ensure you’re equipped to care for them adequately.
Lack of Veterinary Specialists: Finding a veterinarian with experience in rabbit care can be challenging in some areas, potentially leading to inadequate medical care. The protocols (pre & post) with sterilization are different from other pets. Most antibiotics can kill them, so you need a qualified and experienced exotic pet vet.
Photo by Satyabratasm via www.pexels.com
RABBIT ENCLOSURES
When it comes to housing needs, rabbits need ample space to move around and exercise. Free roaming is always best. It also wouldn’t work to have the bunnies in a smaller space for the night “to sleep”, because bunnies are actually very busy at night and don’t have the same sleeping pattern as us humans. A small hutch or cage is not sufficient for their well-being. Providing a safe and spacious environment can be demanding, especially for apartment dwellers or those with limited space.
Minimum requirements: Solid non-wire flooring. The enclosure must be at least 4-6 times the size of the rabbit when they are entirely stretched out and more if confined to this space most of the day. At least 0.7m² of enclosure space combined with at least 2.2m² of exercise space, for 1-2 rabbits. The smallest space should be big enough for the rabbit to hop across three times and stand without their ears touching the top. This should only be the space to keep them temporarily, they need way more space to thrive! The above is literally the absolute bare minimum size. Read more general enclosure guidelines.
RABBIT STERILIZATION
Did you know that rabbits can have a litter almost every month? Hundreds of rabbits are surrendered daily because there are just not enough homes. We often hear “My bunny is a single bunny, so I’m not going to sterilize them”, but it is about more than just having babies! There are many benefits to sterilizing your rabbit (by Critter rescue):
Health benefits
Longer life.
Decreased risk of urinary tract infections.
Decreased risk of cancer. Unspayed females are at very high risk of two potentially fatal conditions: Uterine cancer and pyometra (infection of the uterus/womb). Unneutered males occasionally develop cancer in their testes and prostate gland. Although the risk is small, castration removes that risk completely.
Social benefits
With the absence of all those raging hormones, it is much easier to bond your bunny with a friend.
Fewer fights occur (especially between males).
Females (although it is still possible for them to experience a false pregnancy) no longer have to go through the emotional stress of trying to build a nest.
Territorial behavior calms down.
Habitual benefits
Easier to litterbox train.
Destructive behavior decreases, but remember, bunnies are mischievous beings with or without those hormones.
When should I sterilize my bunny?
Sterilization should ideally occur as soon as the bunny has reached his or her sexual maturity.
Male: between 3-5 months of age.
Female: between 4-6 months of age.
Disclaimer: There are valid reasons as to why your bunny isn’t sterilized, valid medical reasons. The time of neutering until the time of infertility in males can be a few weeks, so take extra precautions during this time. Please always consult with your exotic pet vet. Also, read more on rabbit sterilization and screening questions to find the right vet for your rabbit.
Please sterilize your rabbits and other pets because we have a massive overpopulation crisis!
TIPS ON HANDLING RABBITS
NEVER PICK THEM UP BY the ears, scruff, tail, or legs. It would be extremely stressful, will hurt, and is highly likely to injure them badly!
Rabbit handling – Image shared via The Paw Company
START EARLY
Get your rabbits used to human touch by socializing them early. Rabbits who aren’t handled regularly from a young age, or roughly handled at any age, may find human contact distressing.
BE GENTLE
Move slowly and talk quietly around rabbits so as not to startle them. They’re more likely to be relaxed in a quiet and calm handling environment.
PICK UP FROM THE GROUND
Picking rabbits up when you’re close to ground level is less likely to scare them, and is also safer as it helps prevent them being dropped by accident from a height. We advise all interactions to take place on ground level when possible.
ALWAYS SUPERVISE CHILDREN
Supervise children at all times, and only adults or responsible older children should be allowed to pick up rabbits.
BE SAFE
Safety is paramount when handling rabbits as their fragile spines can be seriously, or even fatally damaged if they feel insecure or struggle when held.
Hold rabbits gently, but firmly and ensure one hand supports their back and hindquarters at all times.
Help them feel secure by holding all four feet against your body.
Avoid placing rabbits on slippery surfaces. Placing a towel down can help make rabbits feel more secure.
Some sources suggest covering the eyes without covering the nares (nostrils), but talk to your bunny experts before you do this as not all will advise this.
PLEASE DON’T DUMP DOMESTIC BUNNIES IN THE WILD!
You won’t believe how many people are so cruel and foolish! You should never release a captive animal into the wild! They will not be able to care for themselves and you will sign their death warrant when you dump a domesticated bunny in a park, veld, or open environment like a plot or farm. Rather safely surrender them to your nearest SPCA, the NSPCA wildlife unit, your nearest reputable rescue organization, or a nearby wildlife rehabilitation center.
Domestic vs Wild/Feral Bunnies (by Critter Rescue)
Wild/feral rabbits adapted to their environment and know how to look for food and shelter and how to avoid predators. They have a natural instinct that developed from birth to survive in those environments. They adapt well to cold, hot, and wet weather.
Domestic bunnies on the other hand, need (and wait for you to bring them) fresh foods and a balanced pellet diet with unlimited hay. They need you to groom them regularly and take them to a vet for parasite control and dental checks. Domestic bunnies also don’t adapt well to hot, cold, and wet weather and when released will die of heatstroke or get sick from wet and cold weather.
They don’t know how to properly identify predators as they are used to staying with you and in most cases were exposed to dogs, cats, and birds. Now they run around in an unknown area looking for food and shelter and suddenly they find themselves being ripped apart. If they are lucky enough the shock will kill them instantly but most aren’t. When they suffer from shock they freeze and that is when they get eaten alive. They can feel everything but can’t go anywhere.
Your domestic bunny will fall pregnant, have her babies, and then have to sit and watch while they are being eaten and there is nothing she can do about it. She feeds her young at dusk and leaves the nest to keep predators away but they will still find their way to the nest and when she returns at dawn to feed again, she will find them gone or dead.
These are just some of the things that can go wrong with domestic bunnies after being released in the wild.
REMEMBER!
If you see neglected rabbits (or any animal) please REPORT it to your local SPCA or the NSPCA.
Check your local BYLAWS on whether you need a PERMIT for keeping certain animals in your province as well as a possible travel permit when you move them.
If you’re concerned about your rabbit’s behaviour, seek veterinary advice from an exotic vet that specializes in rabbits, to rule out any form of illness or injury that could be causing problems.
STILL WANT TO TAKE CARE OF A RABBIT?
Then please do your homework and do not buy one on impulse. Rabbits are social species and prefer to live in groups. If you decide to own a rabbit, always have at least 2 rabbits, but please understand behaviour and bonding before you just get another rabbit. However, if you don’t have the room or time or money to keep two rabbits you will need to become your rabbit’s companion.
We do not support keeping rabbits as pets and especially not as starter pets for kids, contrary to popular belief. They are often impulse buys, bought at markets and pet shops. Their care is not as straightforward as some other animals and handling them wrong can be fatal! If you do decide to get any one of these species, then you need to do proper research to meet all their needs and commit to their whole life!
Your bunny didn’t ask to be here and didn’t get a choice in the matter, you forced them to live with you. Your bunny didn’t know that you will lose interest and keep him or her locked up in a small cage until one day you decide to get rid of them. There lives are short compared to humans so give them the life a sentient being deserves!
Next week we will look at why you should stop being angry at shelters!
Sasol Highveld Photography Club August results are spectacular
The Sasol Highveld Photography Club held their monthly meeting at the start of August and once again there were some very good results.
The technical abilities of the photographers are of a very high standard. Photographers also let their imaginations run wild when choosing subjects to photograph or “Shoot.”
It is good to mingle with other photographers as it offers a unique opportunity to learn from your peers.
Hanno De Beer was the judge for the evening.
The photographers from Sasol Highveld Photography Club hold meetings on the first Friday of every month. These meetings give photographers a chance to mingle and interact with other photographers. Meetings are usually held at the Scrum Inn, Sasol Club.
They also listen to informative lectures and talk about various photography subjects.
The monthly meeting also gives photographers a chance to have their photographs evaluated and judged. Points are given and, depending on their grades, awards are given. Outstanding photographs will receive a “Certificate of Merit” while gold, silver and bronze are also awarded. Not only are these awards given, but “Best Junior”, “Best Senior” and “Best Set Subject” is also given for the month.
The photographs are also entered in various categories such as Monochrome, Landscape and Nature.
The Bulletin always showcase the “Certificate of Merit” and Gold awards as well as the three “Best” photographs.
Here are the results for the month of August. The following photographs are the Best Senior, Best Junior and Best Set Subject.
Best Senior Photographer – August
The Best Senior is a photograph by Leon Pelser. It is titled “Beauty in Death”
Beauty in Death by Leon Pelser
Best Junior
The best Junior is by Anzette Snyders. It is titled “Thoughts”
Thoughts by Anzette Snyders
Best Set Subject – Macro Photography
The best Senior Photographer for August is Sussa Pelser with “Tarantula Dop Na Vervel”
“Tarantula Dop Na Vervel” by Sussa Pelser
The following photographs in the various categories all received Certificate of Merit or Gold awards.
Nature – Birds Only
Squeeze by Danie SmitSwallow by Yolande PietersenLooking through you by Lorraine BothaDrakensberg Spotted Owl 1 by Louis van der WaltBotox needed by Barbara Mitton
Scapes
Airial view on ashdam patterns by Leon PelserBotanical gardens Waterfall by Yolande PietersenCathedral Peak Misty Sun Star by Louis van der WaltChoices by Anzette Snyders
Monochrome
Dumbe Endless Mountain View – BW
by Louis van der Walt
Nature
Green Worm by Sussa PelserRare Black leopard by Barbara MittonWaterpret by Danie SmitPython by Danie Smit
Pictorial
African fish eagle incoming by Louis van der WaltAttitude by Lorraine BothaCold ish by Piet PotgieterMy Hunk by Yolande PietersenMy Ukraiene story by Leon PelserSasol in die aandskemering by Adri KirstenBootrit Isimangaliso by Adri KirstenWIne and Port Museum Duaro Valley by Lorraine Botha
Photojournalism
Airsoft Semi Final on the run by Yolande PietersenElectrical Box Van Eck Street July 2023 by Lorraine BothaFresh and friendly by Anzette SnydersHappy At The Street Market by Sussa PelserWhen the going gets tough by Leon PelserGood for you by Anzette Snyders
Set Subject – Macro Photography
Almost Fly by Louis van der WaltBare Elegance by Clarisa OrsmondHardwerkende By by Adri KirstenMot Gevreet by Leon PelserSpider by Lorraine BothaStink bug by Piet PotgieterYellow Spider meal by Danie Smit
OPERATION SHANELA STARTED WITH A HIGH NOTE IN MPUMALANGA
Nelspruit: 14 August 2023 – Two suspects aged 67 and 50 years were brought to book on the day the Mpumalanga Provincial Commissioner of the SAPS Lieutenant General Semakaleng Daphney Manamela launched the Provincial Operation Shanela at Acornhoek on Friday 11 August 2023.
The two suspects were nabbed after police reacted to a tip-off of an unlicensed firearm.
Police operationalised the information and headed to Clara Village in Mhala where the two suspects were found in possession of an unlicensed hunting rifle, seven live ammunition as well as ten bush knives.
The suspects could not produce a firearm licence or permit to possess such a firearm hence they were arrested. They are expected to appear in Mhala Regional Court today, Monday 14 August 2023.
The Provincial Commissioner of the SAPS in Mpumalanga, Lieutenant General Semakaleng Daphney Manamela indicated that this was a good start for the operation in the province and promised to make Mpumalanga a crime-free Province. “We do not care about one’s age, if a person is found to be on the wrong side of the law, we will do what is expected of us,” concluded the General.
Police urge anyone with any information on Crime to call the Crime Stop number at 08600 10111. Alternatively, members of the public can send information via MYSAPSAPP. All received information will be treated as confidential and callers may opt to remain anonymous.
South African National Parks Week 2023 will be in September
South African National Parks (SANParks) will be presenting its 18th annual SA National Parks Week from 16 to 24 September 2023 and is once again proud to celebrate it with our partners Total South Africa and FNB. This year SANParks is once again extending SA National Parks Week to include weekends at some of the national parks.
Since its inception in 2006; National Parks Week, under the theme ‘Know Your National Parks’, has seen an influx of over 691 418 day visitors in all participating parks. SANParks Chief Executive Officer, Hapiloe Sello says that the idea of a national parks focus week is a world-wide campaign. “The week was established in a bid to cultivate a sense of pride in South Africa’s natural, cultural and historical heritage, protected by the national parks system. It is also in line with the SANParks vision statement of ‘A Sustainable National Park System Connecting Society.”
The week grants free access to most of the 21 national parks for day visitors, especially people from the local communities. It should be noted that free access to parks does not include free access to accommodation facilities and other tourist activities. Some of the parks will be extending the week to include the 2 weekends. For individual park dates and participating parks please visit: http://www.sanparks.org/about/events/parks_week/default.php
SA National Parks Week has proved to be a successful campaign in terms of education and awareness of conservation issues. “It’s important for South Africans to visit and know the importance of national parks. They act as spaces to practice sustainable conservation, as spaces that preserve and celebrate our culture and heritage, and we now see national parks playing the critical role of empowering communities living adjacent to parks through job creation and we continue to explore ways of creating business opportunities particularly for small business owners,” says Sello.
“This initiative aims to give the public an understanding of the role that SANParks plays as custodian of the country’s natural heritage. If we are to create a sense of ownership of the natural heritage of South Africa in all South Africans, then all South Africans must be able to have access to such. Visit a national park this year for free during SA National Parks Week, to see what it has to offer and do your part by getting to know your national parks, celebrate your rich heritage offering and experience first-hand the iconic beauty and plethora of natural flora and fauna.,” concluded Sello. Don’t miss out on this annual event to experience South Africa’s beautiful natural heritage.
