Karateka van die Lyons Karate Klub in Trichardt gaan SA verteenwoordig
Bruce Lee, Chuck Norris, Jackie Chan and Jet Lee, Dit is die name wat mens aan dink as die woord Karate gebruik word, al beoefen hulle ander forms van ode Oosterse Vegkunste. (Karate beteken “Open Hand” of “Oop Hand”, dit word sonder wapens beoefen.) Vir baie mense het hulle ikone geword. Maar weet ons dat hier in ons eie omgewing Karatekas is wat self sterre in hulle eie reg is?
Vandag dink ons egter aan ons eie Karatekas van ons eie streek.
Verskeie plaaslike Karateka is gekies om Suid Afrika te gaan teenwoording by die 1ste “Indo Pacific Cup” wat gehou gaan word in Mauritius. Almal lede van die Lyons Karate Klub in Trichardt en Bethal.
Die toernooi vind plaas vanaf 15-16 September.
Tydens die afgelope “JKA Africa Open Championships Incorporating the SA JKA National Championships” waaraan ongeveer 4000 Karateka’s deelgeneem het, is die span gekies en Mpumalanga het 18 medaljes verower.
Die span van die Lyons Karate Klub het met amper alles van dit weggeloop.
Sensei Monique Lyons het die klub in 2008 gestig en daar is twee Dojo’s, een in Secunda en een in Bethal. Daar is ook ongeveer 50 Karatekas van alle ouderdomme en graderings.
Die klublede neem gereeld deel aan plaaslike, provinsiale, nationale en internationale kompetisies deel waar hulle baie goed vaar.
Hulle deelnemers word gereeld in die top posisies gegradeer op nationale vlak en het verskeie deelnemers in die SA JKA Nationale span.
Die aankondiging van die span vir Mauritius het hulle egter effe onkant gevang omdat dit sopas aangekondig is en tyd om fondse bymekaar te kry maar min is. Die koste verbonde aan die kompetisie is redelik hoog en hulle het nog nie borge bekom nie.
Kom ons ondersteun hierdie klub met hulle kompetisie.
SUSPECTS ARRESTED AND VEHICLES RECOVERED AFTER ANOTHER CASH-IN-TRANSIT HEIST
MPUMALANGA: The Provincial Head of the Hawks has conveyed his gratitude towards the multi-disciplinary team who is tasked with preventing and investigating the Cash In Transit heist. The group consists of the Hawks Provincial task team, Crime Intelligence National Office, NIU, TRT and private companies affected by these heists. The General sent out a stem warning “The Hawks are not alone in this fight, we are literarily squeezing the space where these suspects are operating. We have made a serious impact over the past couple of weeks. We will not rest. This is a collaborative effort and the strategy is bearing excellent results in a short space of time.”
This warning emanates from the Cash In Transit robbery which happened this morning, Friday, 11 August 2023 when the fidelity company was attacked by a group of criminals.
Fidelity’s armoured vehicle (AV) was travelling from Malelane towards Tonga. Approximately 15 km from the N4 the AV was rammed by a C- class Mercedes Benz. The AV lost control and overturned. The AV was bombed and approximately R8000-00 in coins were stolen. This cash was destined for a business in Tonga. The suspects fled in the direction of Tonga.
The team comprising by the Hawks Nelspruit-based Serious Organised Crime Investigation, Provincial Detectives, Malelane Detectives, Malelane Provincial Crime Intelligence, Schoemansdal Detectives, National Intervention Unit, Nelspruit LCRC, Nelspruit Bomb Disposal and Private Security companies engaged the suspects. The two vehicles which were used during the CIT ROBBERY were recovered at a safe house in Schoemansdal and four suspects were arrested. Information is being followed and further successes are expected.
Members of the Hawks confirm their commitment to follow up information received from the public. The Provincial Head further requested anyone with information which can lead to the whereabouts of the other suspects to contact the Hawks, said Major General Gerber.
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.
Vroue van regoor Mpumalanga het die 28ste Kongres bygewoon
Die jaarlikse Vroue Landbou Unie Mpumalanga kongres is by Lake Umuzi gehou.
Vlu Mpumalanga het ontstaan na die ontbondeling van die ou Transvaalse Vroue Landbou Unie in 2001/2002. Die doelwit was om die landswye organisasie kleiner te maak vir beter bestuur. Vlu Mpumalanga het tans 778 lede. Daar is 47 takke wat strek vanaf Lebombo Vallei, Witrivier tot by Delmas.
”Ons het sopas ons 28ste kongres gehou te Lake Umuzi,” het Alna Kapp, nuutverkose presidents van die VLU in Mpumalanga gesê.
“Daar was onder andere ‘n uitstalling van ons lede se pragtige handewerk. Die standaard van die artikels is baie hoog. Ons kies elke jaar ‘n paar studierigtings om die jaar se artikels uit te kies. Dit behels oa afdelings soos brei-, hekelwerk, skilderkuns, skryfkuns, handvlyt, gebak en preservering,” Het Alna gesê.
Die VLU beywer hulle om tradisionele handvaardighede te beoefen en na die nuwe geslag oor te dra, maar spits hulle ook toe om moderne tendense te ondersoek en aan te leer.
Fotos: Louisa Hall
Elke jaar word bekende of minder bekende skrywers, sangers of kunstenaars gekies waaroor hulle dan meer te wete kom. Vir 2024 sal die kollig val op twee van hulle eie persoonlikhede. Marcia Keen is ‘n sangeres en Lizelle von Wielligh ‘n skrywer wat vir Lapa Uitgewers skryf.
Die vroue van die VLU kyk ook na die bome van die jaar en kies ‘n produk wat hul tot streekvlak insluit. In 2024 gaan hulle kyk wat hulle alles met Patats kan doen
Die VLU is ook voortdurend besig om aktuele sake te ondersoek en deur middel van beskrywingspunte te dryf tot op SAVLU-vlak. Die kwessie van swak sanitasie in landelike nedersettings en dorpe is tans een van die beskrywingspunte waaraan SAVLU aandag gee.
Op tak- en streekvlak word demonstrasies en werksklasse aangebied waar lede dan meer leer oor die jaar se gekose artikels. Hulle skryf dan in vir die kompetisie van hulle belangstelling.
Besigtig fotos HIER: Foto krediete aan Louisa Hall
Die artikels word beoordeel deur VLU beoordelaars wat opgelei word deur SAVLU. Hulle skryf ‘n formele eksamen en lê ook prakties af in die afdelings waarin hulle wil kwalifiseer.
Fotos: Louisa Hall
Lede skryf eers op takvlak in vir ‘n kompetisie. Die beste 5 artikels kan dan meeding op streekvlak waarna die beste 5 inskrywings op provinsiale vlak beoordeel word. Elke derde jaar is daar ‘n SAVLU-kongres. Dan beweeg die artikels na ‘n SAVLU beoordeling en word die beste vyf artikels uitgestal op die SAVLU-kongres.
Dat die Suid-Afrikaanse VLU-dames se standaard baie hoog is, was duidelik toe Vlu Mpumalanga in Meimaand 167 artikels ingeskryf het vir die WBPV (Wêreldbond Van Plattelandse Vroue) ACWW (Assosiated Country Women of the World) konferensie in Maleisië.
” Ons het met altesame 16 pryse weggestap,” sê Alna trots.
SAVLU is geaffilieer met die WBPV wat inspraak het by die Verenigde Nasies. ‘n Platvorm wat vir hulle as vroue tot groot voordeel strek.
Fotos: Louisa Hall
“Ek is dankbaar vir die geleentheid wat ek het om na 33 jaar ook dit wat ek oor die jare geleer het terug te ploeg in die organisasie,” sê Alna, “Ons behoort aan ‘n wonderlike opheffende organisasie. VLU-vroue is dikwels ook die ruggraat wat gemeenskappe aanmekaar hou.”
Lede moet 16 jaar oud wees om aan te sluit. Hulle doen tans baie moeite om hulle organisasie se werksaamhede op sosiale en ander media bekend te stel. Dit wat die VLU aanbied was, is en sal altyd relevant bly. “Dis in ons gene om versorgende moeders en tuisteskeppers te wees,” Sê Alna
DOEL VAN DIE VLU
Om die vrou se kennis te verbreed;
Om haar eie talente te ontdek en dit te ontwikkel;
Om aan haarself hoë eise en standaarde te stel
En net met die allerbeste tevrede te wees;
Om haar uitkyk op die lewe te verruim;
Om van haar ‘n beter vrou en moeder te maak;
Om haar mensekennis te verbreed;
Om te volhard tot sy wen,
maar om ook ‘n tevrede verloorder te wees;
Om haar gevoel van eie waarde te bevestig en
laaste, maar nie die minste nie,
Om haar sorge te vergeet
en aangenaam en gesellig te ontspan met mede-lede.
VISIE VAN DIE VLU
Die VLU is ‘n opvoedkundige organisasie waarin vroue met dieselfde waardes
geleenthede tot verruiming gebied word sodat hulle ‘n bydrae kan lewer en ‘n
daadwerklike aandeel kan hê aan die ontwikkeling van ons land.
MISSIE
Om deur middel van hoë kwaliteit programme kennis en vaardighede tot voordeel
van die totale gemeenskap oor te dra.
Om lede as tuisteskeppers en meelewende landsburgers toe te rus
Kongres is die jaarlikse byeenkoms van al die takke uit Mpumalanga provinsie.
“Dit is amper soos konferensie, maar net op steroids,” skryf VLU Lebombovallei op hulle Facebook blad.
Die Hoëveldstreek bestaan uit verskeie takke. Hier volg ‘n kort geskiedenis van die takke naby ons soos in die 25ste verjaarsdagboek vervat :
Bethal Tak
Die Bethaltak is in Oktober 1928 gestig. Wyle Mev. O’Connor, destydse presidente van TVLU, bygestaan deur wvle Mev. Deans, hoofbestuurslid en voorsitter van Sukkelaartak, het die
stigtingsvergadering waargeneem. Mev. O’Connor het per trein vanaf Pretoria gereis en het vyfuur die oggend do Bethal aangekom. Die tak is met 12 lede gestig. met Mev. Vosloo, destydse landdrosvrou, as voorsitter. Die ledegeld was twee sjielings per jaar. aia tak het vining gegroei en teen 1938 was daar al 120 lede onder die bekwame leiding van Mev. Pattie Joubert, wat van 1938 tot 1953 die tak se voorsitter was.
Mev. Joubert het ook van 1947 tot 1970 op die hoofbestuur gedien.
Van 1933 tot 1951 het Bethaltak gereeld aan die Randse Paasskou deelgeneem. Daardie jare het die TVLU nog takuitstallings op die skou gehou. Bethaltak het drie bekers gewen.
Die tak was altyd baie bedrywig en vanaf die eerste jare het die lede konserte gereël, danse gehou en spyseniering waargeneem om fondse in samel. Dit was ryk tak.
Bethaltak het vir 18 jaar ‘n kind op die Trans-Oranjeskool vir Dowes onderhou.
Die tak het vir byna 20 jaar voorgevat met die Aartappelfees en het bykans alles aangaande die fees gereël. Daar was kronings- en gala- aande waarvoor reggestaan is met spyseniering en die dames het baie keer tot twee-uur die oggend gestaan en skottelgoed was.
Devon Tak
Mev. O’Connor het op 13 Junie 1932 die stigting van Devontak waargeneem in die mieliestoor van die enigste winkel op Devon, nadat Mev, Hester Meyer dit versoek het. Die stigterslede was mevroue Penning, Moodie, Curlewes, Walker, Hester Meyer (sekretaresse), Cotie Basson en Lulu Gouws (voorsitter)
Mev. Lulu Gouws se dogter, Jeanne-Louise Swart is nog steeds lid en het haar 60-jaar lidmaatskap-toekenning in Maart 2020 ontvang.
Devontak het ‘n nuwe takvaandel laat ontwerp van een van die volkstapisseries wat deur lede geborduur is en wat steeds in die kerksaal hang
Devon is betrokke by die gemeenskap. Elke jaar word koekies geskenk aan die bejaardes van die omgewing. Dit is altyd ‘n hoogtepunt om die blydskap op hulle gesigte waar te neem.
Devontak was ook betrokke by opvoedkundige program te Laerskool Devon en het die kinders gewys hoe om groente te plant. Saad, grond en en boksies was geskenk deur ons lede.
Vir fondsinsameling is die weeklikse verkoop van verversings by die veeveiling iets om na uit te sien.
Goeie samewerking van lede dra daartoe by dat ons by verskeie konferensies en selfs kongresse beste presteerders was. Van die staatmakerlede Susan Louw en Santie Meyer het by verskeie kongresse en SAVLU- kompetisies eerste pryse gewen. Die VLU bly ‘n wonderlike platform om ons kennis te verbreed.
As gevolg van ontvolking van die platteland en die ouderdom van lede het ons ledetal gedaal. VLU bly egter nog elke maand ‘n hoogtepunt, want ons leer baie en kuier heerlik
saam.
Lena Nolte was jare lank voorsitter en sy was ook Streekvoorsitter tot 1995 toe sy oorlede is.
Kinross Tak
VLU-Kinrosstak is reeds in 1928 gestig. Geskiedenis van hierdie tak is nooit aangeteken in die “Blou Boek” en albums en notuleboeke is ongelukkig ook nie meer in ons besit nie.
Kinross bestaan uit ‘n handjievol lede wat’ groot verskil in die gemeenskap maak. Ons neem deel aan uitstappies en hou ook werksklasse. Ons reik uit na ons gemeenskap, hou kanker byeenkomste, bied hulp aan die bejaardes en Christopher Ryansentrum. Ons neem ook graag deel aan kongresprojekte en kry ook uitstekende punte vir ons werk wat ons lewer.
In 2003 het die tak sy 75-jarige bestaan gevier met ‘n pragtige “‘damesoggend In 2018 het ons die tak se 90-iarige bestaan gevier. Van ons oud-lede is ook uitgenooi om die oggend saam met ons te kom geniet, Dit was n baie spoggerige geleentheid.
Ongelukig het ons tak ook lede verloor maar die afgelope paar iaar bly ons
getalle konstant. Ons is ‘n klein tak wat soveel moeite doen met ons maandelikse
vergaderings en daar word met groot sorg omgesien na almal se belange en welstand.
Secunda Tak
Mev. van Vuuren, streeksleier in hierdie gebied open die stigtingsvergadering op 18 Januarie 1978 met VLU-gebed. 32 dames is teenwoordig.
Transvaal was verdeel in 21 streke en Secunda val in die Bethal-Ermelo streek. EIke tak het verteenwoordiging op die streekbestuur.
Ledegeld word deur elke tak self vasgestel en is betaalbaar op 1 Februarie jaarliks. Tak ledegeld is vasgestel op R5 per lid per jaar. Ledegeld aan hoofkantoor beloop R2 per lid per jaar en die geld word gebruik om die TVLU-nuusbrief uit te gee.
Eerste bestuur van VLU-Secunda was voorsitter: Mev. Kritzinger, 1ste vise-voorsitter: Mev. J. Spies, 2de vise-voorsitter: Mev. Y. Vorster en addisionele lede: Tharina Kretchmer, Dalene Nel, Berna Davids, Elize van Deventer, Estelle Gouws en Janette Pretorius. Die sekretaresse en tesouriere word uit hierdie lede verkies.
VLU-Secunda se eerste vergadering vind plaas op 1 Februarie 1978 in die Sasol-ontspanningsklub.
Die tak poog daarna om elke vergadering interessant te maak en vir lede demonstrasies en werksklasse aan te bied. Ander jare trek lede elke maand ‘n sekere kleur aan soos vooraf bepaal. Natuurlik is die koffie en tee met verversings na vergaderings ook `n hoogtepunt en word daar lekker gekuier.
Secundatak het ‘n fondsinsameling gehou met ‘n skaapbraai en ‘n heerlike dans daarna, musiek is verskaf deur Lawrence en Lürika Bowker. Secundatak is baie betrokke in die gemeenskap en lede maak geskenke vir Marietjie-sentrum, skool vir gestremde kinders. ‘n Singer naaimasjien word geskenk vir opleiding aan die dames in gevangenis, met die projek “Vroue in gevangenis”, klere en materiale is ook geskenk.
Die tussengangerkamer in die magistraatskantoor, is die kamer waar kinders, wie in die hof in kamera moet getuig, gehou word. Mevroue Margaret Murray en Gisela Whittaker het op die mure geteken en geverf. Die kamer ook versier met kleurvolle gordyne en kussings om te help om die kinders kalm te hou. Speelgoed, gemaak deur lede van Secunda-VLU, geskenkte en en gekoopte speelgoed, inkleurpotlode, stoeltjies en tafeltjie en ‘n mat Is voorsien.
Lekkergoed en suigstokkies is ook voorsien, waarmee die kinders besig gehou kon word. Lede van Secundatak het toiletwater, skoonmaakmiddels, kos en kontant geskenk vir Hospice, hulle versorg bejaardes wie nie meer na hulself kan omsien nie. Shirley was met kanker gediagnoseer en sy het die Here gevra om haar gesond te maak en dat sy dan ander mense sal help. Sy is genees en sien baie mooi om na die bejaardes, waarvan sommige nie oor fondse beskik om vir hul versorsing te betaal nie.
Ongelukkig is IS geen klasse of aktiwiteite aangebied gedurende grendeltyd nie, maar dames het hul beslis self besig gehou. Sophie Hugo het haar naaldwerkkamer reggepak, VLU-dokumentasie uitsorteer en liaseer en het n blomme kandidaat gehelp met haar eksamen wat sy wel geslaag het.
Maskers is gehekel en daar is geëksperimenteer met koeksisters, Lemon Meringue en gevulde vetkoeke. Omdat alkohol verbode was, het Tracey besiuit om haar eie Apple Cider te maak – darem het sy dit nie verkoop nie!
Secundatak gee om vir sy lede, ons het goeie bywoning van ons lede tydens vergaderings. One lede gee om vir mekaar, ondersteun mekaar, leer graag nuwedinge en kan ekker kuier. VLU-vergaderings is ‘n plek waar almal van alle ouderdomme welkom is en geborge voel.
EXPLORING THE DISTURBING CONNECTION BETWEEN ANIMAL ABUSE AND DOMESTIC ABUSE.
In recent years, the link between animal abuse and domestic abuse is supported by a growing body of research and anecdotal evidence that has shed light on a disturbing connection that exists between two forms of violence. While each of these issues has long been recognized as independent societal problems, the emerging understanding of their interrelationship has brought attention to the complex dynamics that underlie both. The link between animal abuse and domestic abuse is not merely coincidental but rather represents a deep-rooted and troubling correlation that demands further exploration and intervention.
As part of the mission of The Paw Company, I focus on efforts to help change legislation in South Africa to improve the lives of animals. I recently attended three consultation workshops by the animal law project in which Dr. Sheena Swemmer shared about the link between animal abuse and domestic violence.
Sheena Swemmer currently works at the School of Law (Centre for Applied Legal Studies), University of the Witwatersrand. Sheena does research on the intersection of violence against vulnerable groups (such as women, children, and animals) and rights in the Bill of Rights. Her Ph.D. is based on the intersection of companion animal abuse and domestic violence in the home, with the aim of developing South African domestic violence laws to include companion animals.
Animal abuse, which encompasses a wide range of cruel acts towards animals, is often viewed as a precursor or warning sign for more extensive forms of violence. These abusive behaviours may include physical harm, neglect, abandonment, or even deliberate acts of torture directed toward animals, both domestic and wild. On the other hand, domestic violence refers to a pattern of controlling, coercive, and violent behaviours exerted by one person against another in an intimate relationship. This abuse may manifest as physical, emotional, psychological, or sexual harm and is characterized by a power dynamic where the abuser seeks to dominate and control their victim.
Studies examining the link between these two types of violence have uncovered compelling evidence of shared characteristics and common underlying factors. Perpetrators of domestic violence have often been found to have a history of animal abuse, suggesting a progression of violence from animals to human victims. This is also evident in crime channel stories where serial killers’s first victims are usually animals. This makes abuse of animals a significant risk factor in identifying potential domestic abusers and even murderers.
Dr. Swemmer shares the following in her presentation:
In a 2016 study, of men arrested for animal cruelty crimes, 41% have been previously arrested for interpersonal violence crimes, including domestic violence.
In the same study, it was found that 75% of women who previously experienced domestic violence, stated that their partner had harmed or threatened to harm their companion animals, and 90% of the time the children witnessed the violence. This can also increase the risk of the children perpetrating such violence.
Animal abuse is frequently used as a tactic to exert control and intimidation within domestic violence situations. Abusers may harm or threaten to harm beloved pets as a means to manipulate and exert power over their human victims, instilling fear and preventing them from leaving or seeking help. For many individuals, their pets are cherished family members, and the thought of harm coming to them can be a powerful deterrent to seeking safety and leaving abusive environments.
This intertwined relationship between animal abuse and domestic violence has implications for both the victims and society as a whole. Recognizing and addressing this link can offer crucial insights into understanding the minds of abusers, their motives, and the potential escalation of violence. Furthermore, it reinforces the importance of a multidisciplinary approach involving law enforcement, social services, mental health professionals, and animal welfare organizations to protect both vulnerable human and animal victims.
It is therefore important to report animal abuse and cruelty, not only because it is the right thing to do, but by saving animals, you can save people too! Read more about how to better understand animal cruelty, recognize it and report animal cruelty.
Some suggestions to address this link in terms of legislation include:
Establishing protection order mechanisms in the Animal Protection Act.
Creating mandatory reporting mechanisms for Veterinarians.
Creating cross-reporting mechanisms between the Department of social development, SAPS, and the NSPCA (or animal welfare).
Including the use of animals as complainants in domestic violence laws.
Establish caregiver (owner) responsibilities and obligations so that they can lose “custody” of animals if they are not well taken care of.
In conclusion, the connection between animal abuse and domestic abuse serves as a poignant reminder of the complex nature of violence in society. Addressing this link is essential not only to protect animals and their human caretakers but also to break the cycle of violence that can perpetuate from one generation to the next. By fostering awareness, conducting research, and implementing effective preventive measures, we can strive towards building a safer and more compassionate society for all beings.
I agree with Gandhi that the greatness of a nation and its moral progress can be judged by the way its animals are treated. Animals didn’t have a choice where they live, so do right by them! Next week we will look at rabbit care.
A gruesome discovery was made of a newborn baby dumped on a sports field
Nelspruit: 07 August 2023 – Whilst the national celebrates the women’s month, it came as a shock to the community of Mbuzini when a newborn baby girl was found concealed in a plastic bag and dumped in the sports field.
According to information, the gruesome discovery was made by children who were playing around the sports field yesterday afternoon Sunday 06 August 2023 at about 15:00.
The children allegedly alerted elders who responded to the call and they found the baby girl who was still alive.
It is alleged that the elders assisted the baby with first aid including the safe cutting of the umbilical cord.
She was then taken to one of the local hospitals for medical attention.
Currently, the baby is reported to be doing well under the observation of health practitioners.
Meanwhile, the case of concealment of birth was registered and police urge anyone with information that might lead to the arrest of the baby girl’s mother to please contact Detective Sgt Sipho Shekwa on 072 119 3487 or Crime Stop number 08600 10111 alternatively on MYSAPSAPP. All received information will be treated with confidentiality.
The Provincial Commissioner of the SAPS in Mpumalanga, Lieutenant General Semakaleng Daphney Manamela has condemned the inhuman act. “This month we are supposed to pride ourselves on the best practices by our women,” said the General.
TENSION MOUNTS AS RALLY CHAMPIONSHIP HEADS FOR TZANEEN
Three plays one as the National Rally Championship prepares for a tough double-header in the stunning Merensky forests around the Limpopo town of Tzaneen on August 25 and 26 with JJ Potgieter/Tommy du Toit leading the charge, having won three of the four rounds so far.
Their unbeaten run was halted in the Eastern Cape when Jono van Wyk and Nico Swartz (Toyota Gazoo Racing Starlet) claimed the podium’s top step in Round 4 of the series.
“The Tzaneen event is certainly a favourite for Jono,” says navigator Nico Swartz. “He has won his class here before and after our win in the Eastern Cape the whole team is brimming with confidence. We have a good car, and a good team and the intention is to win both rounds outright.
“However, the forests around Tzaneen present their own challenges. The roads are often quite rough and narrow so it is a lot more technical than some other events and ambition can easily outweigh ability.
“We are going to have to be careful with our approach and look after the car.”
This will not be an easy task as the current series leaders JJ Potgieter and Tommy du Toit (Hyundai R4) are not going to relinquish that advantage easily and will be pushing hard for outright victory in both rounds – always bearing in mind it is not only Van Wyk they have to worry about.
Chris Coertse and Greg Godrich (Rally Technik Mazda2) are always on the pace and ready to capitalize on any mistakes – the current South African Rally Champions relying, perhaps, a little more on a cautious, but consistent points-scoring approach.
After engine issues in the two opening rounds, Mandla Mdakane and Kes Naidoo in the second Toyota Gazoo Racing Starlet showed significant pace in the Eastern Cape and will be out to make the Tzaneen event count.
“We would love to finish in Tzaneen with a Toyota 1-2,” grinned Swartz.
Scrutineering for cars competing in the National Championship will take place on Thursday evening, August 24 from 18:00 to 20:00 at the NTT Isuzu Dealership in Tzaneen and the rally will start at 12:00 on Friday from the NTT Toyota Dealership in Tzaneen.
There will be seven Special Stages on Friday with SS 6 and SS7 Being the very popular 1,60 km NTT Toyota Town Twister Tar Stage in the Centre of Tzaneen Town, which will be run directly after each other, giving spectators around two hours of jam-packed Rally Action.
The last two stages will see cars starting in reverse order – so the Regional Cars will be ranged from slow to fast followed by the National teams from slow to fast.
The Northern Regions competitors will start their event on Friday evening with SS 6 & 7 NTT Toyota Town Twister Stages instead of the usual Saturday morning.
Round 6 of the Championship will start at 10:15 am on Saturday from the NTT Toyota, and SS1 is the old Mineshaft stage nl. Salom Shooting Range on Friday on gravel only, and Supaquick Test Centre on Saturday, which runs on gravel as well as through the Tzaneen Traffic Testing Centre offering superb spectating.
A 31,00 km stage, known as NTT Isuzu Dam, will be run once on Friday and twice on Saturday and is likely to be a great tester for man and machine.
Stages are mostly run in the Merensky Plantations known as NTT Honda Agatha and repeated on Saturday as C.I.M Lubri Fuel Agatha, NTT Isuzu Dam and the traditional Kanaal stage as PPS Pipeline, but the final stage on Saturday is SS 6 which starts at the Show Grounds at approximately 16:15. The stage runs onto tar in the vicinity of the Show Grounds. The Star Spares Grand Finalé is a great spectator stage in Town.
The local business community of Tzaneen is remarkable. Businesses rallied around the local organizing team again this year to be involved, after the great success of the 2022 NTT Tzaneen Rally.
“The support from the Tzaneen Community, be it business, The local Council, Traffic Department, SAPS, Merensky Plantations or just the rally fan in town is just phenomenal,” says William Louw, Administrator for the National Rally Championship, Organizer and Clerk of Course for the event.
“Tzaneen has been part of the history of Rallying in SA for many years, and we are so excited to be able to go back there again for a 2nd consecutive National and Regional event. We thank each and every contributor for their efforts and contribution to make the event possible. The competitors are in full prep mode to have their machines in tip-top shape,” says Louw. Not forgetting our sincerest thanks to our Championship partners MRF Tyres, Electrothread, Fixed Mobile Telecoms, Mi-Bern Medi – Call, Ctrack, RacedayTV and Trans African Concessions
The Service Park and Rally Head Quarters will be located at the Tzaneen Show Grounds on both days. Spectators are welcome to visit the Service park and view the cars close-up or just have a chat with the Guys and Girls who have nerves of steel.
Spectator Information will be posted shortly. Please follow The NTT Tzaneen Rally on Facebook or check out our website atwww.nrcsa.co.zafor details. See you in Tzaneen on the 25 – 26th August for spectacular racing.
To improve the capacity of inspectors and boost compliance with labour legislation, Sasol has concluded the first round of training sessions of the Department of Employment and Labour’s (DEL) Occupational Health and Safety inspectors.
Training sessions took place in Secunda and Sasolburg respectively over four days. Approximately 100 inspectors with competencies ranging from health, science to engineering participated in the sessions. The final leg of the training will be held in Durban in September.
Chan Naidoo: Senior Manager, SHE Governance, Compliance and Reporting stated that the training and the transfer of skills was an ideal platform to showcase collaboration between Sasol and the DEL. “This must be seen in the context of Sasol’s contribution to support the authorities in our country by empowering our inspectors to render high-quality inspections with a deep insight into industry practices.”
Best practices were also shared in the administration and management of the respective regulatory requirements. The role of inspectors is to conduct occupational inspections and enable companies to minimise harm in the workplace.
Sasol remains committed to the safety and health of its employees, community, and the environment
Sasol trains Department of Employment and Labour Occupational Health and Safety Inspectors
To improve the capacity of inspectors and boost compliance with labour legislation, Sasol has concluded the first round of training sessions of the Department of Employment and Labour’s (DEL) Occupational Health and Safety inspectors.
Training sessions took place in Secunda and Sasolburg respectively over four days. Approximately 100 inspectors with competencies ranging from health, science to engineering participated in the sessions. The final leg of the training will be held in Durban in September.
Chan Naidoo: Senior Manager, SHE Governance, Compliance and Reporting stated that the training and the transfer of skills was an ideal platform to showcase collaboration between Sasol and the DEL. “This must be seen in the context of Sasol’s contribution to support the authorities in our country by empowering our inspectors to render high-quality inspections with a deep insight into industry practices.”
Best practices were also shared in the administration and management of the respective regulatory requirements. The role of inspectors is to conduct occupational inspections and enable companies to minimise harm in the workplace.
Sasol remains committed to the safety and health of its employees, community, and the environment
WHY PET THEFT OCCURS AND HOW WE CAN BETTER PROTECT OUR BELOVED COMPANIONS
Pet theft is a distressing and concerning issue that has been prevalent in society for many years. It involves the unlawful taking or abduction of animals that are considered to be someone’s beloved pets or companion animals. Pet theft causes pain and suffering to both the stolen animals and their loving owners. The motivations behind pet theft are diverse and complex, but several key factors contribute to this unfortunate phenomenon. Understanding the risk of rising pet thefts and how you can minimize the risk.
WHY ARE PETS STOLEN
Financial Gain: One of the primary reasons for pet theft is the potential for financial profit. Thieves may steal valuable or purebred pets to sell them to unknowing buyers. Some stolen animals end up in illegal breeding operations, where they are used to produce offspring for profit. Some just sell them on the street because the public tends to buy them to “save” them. They may also be stolen and sold as bait animals.
Demand for Specific Breeds: Certain dog breeds, especially those considered rare or trendy, can fetch high prices on the black market. As a result, these breeds become prime targets for thieves seeking to cash in on their desirability.
Emotional Value: Pets hold significant emotional value for their owners, and sadly, some individuals steal pets out of malice or to cause emotional distress to the owners. These perpetrators may derive satisfaction from the suffering they cause to both the pet and their human companions.
Reselling or Ransom: In some cases, thieves may aim to resell the stolen pets to their rightful owners or demand a ransom from the distraught owners in exchange for their safe return.
Dog Fighting, Bait Animals, or Illegal Hunting: Tragically, stolen animals can be used as bait animals in dogfighting rings, where they are pitted against aggressive dogs for training or entertainment. In the context of dogfighting, thieves may steal certain “powerbreeds” dogs to use them in dog fights. Some breeds might be stolen for hunting purposes.
Loneliness and Companionship: Some individuals may steal pets due to feelings of loneliness or a desire for companionship. They might believe that taking someone else’s pet will alleviate their emotional emptiness. We also have issues with people finding a lost pet and then just decide to keep them and not go through an adoption process. We consider this theft too.
Opportunistic Theft: Pets left unattended in yards, tied outside shops, or in unlocked cars become easy targets for opportunistic thieves.
Inadequate Laws and Penalties: Weak laws and lenient penalties for pet theft may not deter criminals from engaging in such activities.
Personal Use or Experimentation: In rare cases, pets might be stolen for personal use, even as food or for experimentation purposes, which is an especially alarming prospect.
Witches do live among us: In our very town, there are individuals who would steal cats for offerings. This is one of the many reasons we believe your cat should also be kept safe in your yard and there are ways to do it!
Pet Theft – Image shared by The Paw Company
HOW ARE ANIMALS STOLEN?
Animals can be stolen in various ways, and pet thieves often employ cunning tactics to carry out their crimes. Some common methods of pet theft include:
Unattended Pets: Pets left unattended in yards, tied up outside shops, or in parked cars are vulnerable targets for thieves. Sadly, irresponsible owners let their pets roam the streets too. They may quickly snatch the animal and flee the scene before anyone notices.
Petnapping: Petnapping involves physically taking a pet from its owner while they are walking the animal or playing in a park. Thieves may use distraction techniques or even threaten the owner to make their escape.
Breaking and Entering: In some cases, thieves might break into homes or vehicles to steal pets. This method is riskier for the criminals but may be employed if they believe valuable or specific breeds are inside the property.
Fraudulent “Buyers”: Thieves may pose as potential buyers to gain access to pets advertised for sale. Once they have the animal in their possession, they disappear without completing the transaction.
Online Scams: The internet provides a platform for thieves to exploit unsuspecting pet owners. They may create fake listings for lost or found pets to lure owners into revealing personal information or arrange meetups where they steal the animals.
Dog Walking or Pet Sitting Services: In rare cases, unscrupulous individuals offering pet services may steal animals while in their care.
Staged Accidents and Snares: Thieves may stage accidents involving pets to create confusion and chaos, allowing them to take the animal while the owner is distracted. Snares and traps are used to catch cats in fields.
Thieves Lure Animals to Them: Pet thieves lure dogs to fences/ walls or gates with food and once they are in reach, they will grab them and pull them over the wall or throw a rope around the dog and pull them over even high walls. They may also use tranquilizers before snatching the animal. A bitch in heat is used to lure a dog out of their property.
Offering rewards for lost pets can unintentionally create an incentive for pet theft, albeit in a limited number of cases. While the primary intention behind offering a reward is to encourage people to actively search for and return the lost pet, it can also attract unscrupulous individuals who see an opportunity to make quick money. Ultimately, while rewards can be a useful tool in finding lost pets, it is essential to use them judiciously and in combination with other methods to increase the likelihood of a safe and honest reunion with your furry companion.
A POISONING RISK IS HIGH WITH HOUSE BREAK-INS – Also read more on pet poisoning and get your poison rescue packs for around R50 at your local shelters. This can buy a few extra minutes to get your pet to the vet.
PREVENTING PET THEFT
Preventing pet theft requires a combination of vigilance, responsible pet ownership, and community awareness. Here are some practical tips to help safeguard your beloved animals from potential thieves:
Supervise Your Pet: Always keep a close eye on your pet when outside, especially in public places. Avoid leaving them unattended in yards, tied up outside shops, or alone in parked cars.
Avoid Unnecessary Trips in the Car: Do not take your dogs for unnecessary trips in the car. If your vehicle is hijacked your dog will be taken as well.
Secure Your Property: Ensure that your home and yard are secure. Use sturdy locks and gates to prevent unauthorized access. Consider installing security cameras to monitor your property. If possible it is even safer for your pets if you ensure that your dogs cannot be lured to the front wall or gate.
Microchip and ID Tags: Microchip your pet and keep the contact information associated with the chip up-to-date. Additionally, have visible identification tags on your pet’s collar with your current contact details. I do not encourage putting the pet’s name on the tag because then thieves can call them by name. Microchips and tags can help increase the chances of recovering a stolen animal if they do go missing and proving ownership.
Be Cautious with Strangers: Be cautious when dealing with strangers interested in your pet, purchase, or to pet them. We don’t support the selling or giving away of animals, but always meet potential buyers in public places rather than at your home.
Avoid Sharing Too Much Online: Be careful about sharing detailed information about your pets on social media or online platforms. Posting specific details about your pet’s location or routines may inadvertently expose them to potential thieves.
Spay/Neuter Your Pet: Spaying or neutering your pet can reduce its desirability for thieves looking to breed animals illegally and neutered males will be less likely to wander off. Your spayed female will not attract males and cause them to roam the streets.
Training: Teach your pet reliable recall commands so that they come to you when called. This skill can help in situations where your pet may be getting too far from you or is approached by a stranger. Teach them to not take food from just anyone and to be careful of strangers.
Be Mindful of Your Surroundings: Pay attention to your surroundings when walking your pet. Stay alert to any suspicious individuals or activities in the area. Do not let young children or older individuals walk pets alone. Don’t be on your phone when walking your pet or listen to music that you can’t hear things happening around you.
Join or Start a Neighbourhood Watch: Participate in or create a neighbourhood watch program that includes pet owners. This can foster a sense of community and encourage people to look out for one another’s pets.
Report Suspicious Activity: Get to know your neighbours and their pets, if you suspect something seems off, contact your neighbours or report it to the local community watch group.
Support Stronger Laws: Advocate for stronger pet theft laws and penalties in your community and country. Engage with local authorities and lawmakers to address this issue effectively.
Educate Others: Spread awareness about pet theft and prevention methods among fellow pet owners, friends, and family members.
Limit Access by Others: If someone other than your family has access to the gate like a domestic worker, builders, or garden service, then have a stern talk about not leaving the gate open or letting the pets out. I do not leave my animals in such circumstances unless I can trust those individuals.
Let Pets Sleep Inside: A survey done under jailed thieves showed that the top deterrents that keep most from breaking in are: CCTV cameras, Detection beams, Electric fences, and most of all, animals that sleep in the house! Not only will they be able to alert you, but you will be able to protect them as many animals get killed, hit, cut, or poisoned during or before these robberies. It is not your pet’s duty to protect you, you must protect them.
By taking these proactive measures and staying cautious, you can reduce the risk of pet theft and increase the chances of reuniting with your pet if they do go missing. Remember, prevention is key to keeping your furry friends safe and secure.
In our country the police for the most part struggle to catch rapists, killers, and house thieves, so there is no way for us to believe that pet theft is high on their priority list. Pet theft is often a low-risk, high-reward crime for perpetrators. The covert nature of the act makes it challenging to gather concrete evidence, leaving law enforcement with few leads to follow. Unlike other crimes that may leave behind clear trails, pet theft can be difficult to trace, especially if the animals are sold through illegal channels, allowed to roam the streets or taken to different jurisdictions.
To address these challenges, law enforcement agencies must recognize the seriousness of pet theft and allocate sufficient resources for investigations. Creating specialized units or task forces dedicated to handling pet theft cases can help streamline efforts and improve outcomes. Additionally, establishing a unified database and reporting system for stolen pets nationwide would enhance information sharing and facilitate the tracking of stolen animals and identifying patterns. Additionally, communities and law enforcement should work together to raise awareness, tighten legislation, and impose stricter penalties on those involved in pet theft to discourage such criminal activities.
IF YOUR PET IS STOLEN
If you suspect your pet is stolen, please report it to the nearest SAPS, alert your community and neighbourhood watch.
Contact neighbours with cameras to look for possible evidence.
Check lost and found pages from nearby towns as animals may be taken, sold or dumped there.
If you see what appears to be a suspicious sale happening, we advise you follow from a distance and contact your local welfare organizations to advise further steps. If it is safe to do so, take photos as evidence. Don’t just buy the animal and let the thieve be as this incentivizes further theft.
Collaboration with animal welfare organizations, community watch groups, and vigilant citizens can also strengthen the fight against pet theft. Organizations that work to prevent pet theft and reunite lost pets with their owners play a vital role in mitigating the impact of this crime. By supporting these organizations, raising awareness, and advocating for stricter laws, we can collectively strive to protect our beloved pets from falling victim to theft. Engaging the public in reporting suspicious activities and providing relevant information can be instrumental in identifying and catching pet thieves.
Ultimately, pet theft is not only a violation of the law but also an assault on the bond between humans and their animal companions. Responsible pet ownership includes the duty of keeping our pets safe and protected. When we bring a pet into our lives, we become their guardians, and it is our responsibility to ensure their well-being and safety. By acknowledging the gravity of this crime and implementing proactive measures, we can work towards a safer environment for our beloved animal companions and bring those responsible for these heartless acts to justice.
Next week we will look at THE LINK between animal abuse and domestic abuse.
