The Gazette - August 2025 Edition
- Johané
- Aug 29
- 14 min read
In this edition
Potchefstroom and Ventersdorp: The Demerger everyone wanted but nobody got
Amelia Aftercare Centre: The shocking reality after the 60% subsidy cut
TTSA Crowned Champions at the Dlala Diski Mshaya Under-15 Tournament
Modified Hockey Launch Kicks Off in North West Province
StroomCares: Potch Stands Together: A Moving Second Vat Verniet Tafel
Vote for Potchefstroom’s Santi Britz as Inspirasievrou 2025
Ons maandelikse gebeurteniskalender hou jou op hoogte van alles wat gebeur.
Let’s Support Paws Haven on International Dog Day
Gimmies: Landlopers wys deursettingsvermoë by NW-kampioenskap en matrieks vier ontbyt in styl
Volkies: Leerders blink uit by Allegretto Eisteddfod en UNISA-teorie sukses vir musiekleerders
PCS celebrates North West Champion: Atlegang Nthite StudyXPress Potch skop sportseisoen af
KHS-landlopers skitter by NW-Kampioenskap
THS Klerksdorp U/15 crowned Noordvaal 4th Division Champions
Saamtrek se Millika Horn skitter by Centurion CGC – vier goud én ’n brons!
Suzuki’s July Momentum: Model Snapshots for Shoppers in Potchefstroom
Potch se Stories
Potchefstroom and Ventersdorp: The Demerger everyone wanted but nobody got
“This is more than a petition, it is a people’s revolt against a decade of decline”
In a shocking turn of events, only one day after dropping off thousands of petition forms, the Demarcation Board decided against the demerging of Potchefstroom and Ventersdorp long before the 30th of July. And just like in 2015 when the merging took place, it looks to be motivated by political considerations rather than proper and better service delivery to the Potchefstroom community. Launched in 2023, the petition campaign (led by DA Caucus Leader, Hans-Jurie Moolman) gained extraordinary momentum over the past few weeks, all in the hope that Potchefstroom will once again become Tlokwe and function on its own.
Nearly 14 000 residents signed the petition forms and were hopeful when these forms were dropped off at the Demarcation Board in Pretoria on 6 August. In a previous article, the Potch Gazette spoke to Caucus Leader, Hans-Jurie Moolman and member of Parliament and Head of Constituency, Chris Hattingh about the importance of the demerging actually taking place and what that would mean for the town and its community in various aspects. ‘Petition points’ were set up at various locations across town to ensure all residents had the opportunity to partake in the signing of the petition.
Despite the thousands of signatures received, on 7 August residents woke to the message from various ward council members that a decision had already been made - the towns of Potchefstroom and Ventersdorp will not be demerging. It appears that this decision was made long before the cut-off date of 3 August 2025. Council members expressed their shock and disappointment following the nonchalant announcement regarding this matter, and have already demanded the following from the Board: 1.Reasons for their decision. 2.Copy of the Technical Report. 3.All proof and records to determine whether there was any public participation that took place before the decision was made.
They are awaiting a response from the Demarcation Board to determine whether further steps will be taken. “We are very disappointed. It’s clear that our community’s view and opinion has never counted in these decisions” , was Caucus Leader, Hans-Jurie Moolman’s response to the outcome. “The fact that the delimitation process is already underway further confirms that this decision was taken long ago and that whatever is referred to as public participation and public engagement was treated as a formality and never truly took place.”
In the media statement released by Councillor Hodgson, she furthermore stated the following:
“We call on the MDB to publish all reports, stakeholder submissions, and the final recommendations on JB Marks without further obstruction. The process must be transparent, inclusive, and driven by the voices of the people - not hidden behind bureaucracy and silence.”
The future is uncertain to the residents of Potchefstroom and Ventersdorp and whether or not these two towns will ever function on their own again. As mentioned by various DA Ward members, the merger has failed on every front. “Instead of improving governance, it collapsed service delivery, destroyed administrative capacity, bankrupted municipal finances, and allowed entrenched corruption to fester. Ventersdorp was marginalised, Potchefstroom was looted, and both towns were betrayed.” "The DA thanks every resident who took a stand.
This fight is far from over, but the tide is turning. We will not rest until the injustice of this forced merger is undone and both Potchefstroom and Ventersdorp are free to chart their own future.
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Amelia Aftercare Centre: The shocking reality after the 60% subsidy cut
Aftercare facilities are bleeding from the neck, and the Department of Social Development is holding the knife.
One of the most shocking announcements for Amelia Aftercare Centre came a few weeks ago when the Department of Social Development announced that they will be cutting this centre’s subsidy by an astonishing 60% - that is an estimate of R180 000 per month that this facility won't be seeing. Those funds could have gone towards salaries, stimulation workshops, and accommodation for its residents. Now, management is under severe pressure to keep the doors open.
We spoke to Nadine Venter (Head Instructor) and Anastashia Coetzee (Social Worker) at Amelia Aftercare Centre to find out just how negatively this cut has impacted the centre.
The centre currently cares for 48 residents whose families are unable to pay for the care they need. This means that the cost of these 48 residents have to be covered by Amelia Aftercare Centre. The subsidy cut has also forced the centre to increase their monthly copayments, and as Nadine mentioned “it affects those families’ financial state and it is therefore clear that this is causing a ripple effect”. This sudden cut not only affects the residents, but the staff as well. Their current vacancies cannot be filled at this stage, as they won’t be able to provide the correct candidate with a salary - which leaves them with one less pair of hands to assist.
With Amelia Aftercare Centre being such a unique facility, there are certain expenditures that other facilities don’t have to worry about covering, such as maintaining stimulation workshops. The ‘usual’ costs also need to be covered - providing care and accommodation for residents, food, electricity, buying materials, and of course, paying salaries. Since the cut, the above mentioned and how it’s going to be covered, has been a big worry.
The community has already stepped up and assisted the centre by donating food and making financial contributions, which is greatly appreciated. Earlier fundraising events were successful, and they are already preparing for the next one - the Asambo Golf Day on the 24th of October. But resources are thinning out and the team is already at capacity with regards to their annual fundraising events, which adds another level of stress to the situation.
As it stands, they are facing the risk of having to close certain houses on the premises, which will force them to divide residents into other homes or submit applications for them to receive alternative care. Nadine further explained that this on its own has been challenging "as several of the alternative care centres also face the challenge of subsidy cuts.” Aftercare facilities are bleeding from the neck, and the Department of Social Development is holding the knife.
This is where the community can step in and make a difference, as establishments like these are completely dependent on community members and local businesses - whether it be with financial assistance or donations of any sort; without community support “we won’t be able to go forward.” And if you genuinely can’t give anything, pray for the centre. The management team is very proactive and have already set up a Backabuddy Campaign to assist in reaching their financial goals.
Apart from the Backabuddy campaign, they have launched an advertising campaign where businesses, big or small, have the opportunity to purchase a sign that will be on display on the gates of the centre - it’s all about exposure.
Ultimately, Amelia would like to get to a point where they can function completely independently and possibly even in private capacity. “We also need to prioritise establishing permanent funding plans and will continue to put in the work to make this possible. Our hearts are for our residents, and we will do everything that we possibly can to still provide a home for them.” It’s during times like these that the residents of Potchefstroom have shown, time and time again, exactly what they are capable of. This is a plea to open your hearts yet again, and help those most vulnerable amongst us - whether it be a financial contribution, food, or any other donation; anything and everything is welcome.
TTSA Crowned Champions at the Dlala Diski Mshaya Under-15 Tournament
The Dlala Diski Mshaya Under-15 Soccer Tournament reached its thrilling conclusion at Sarafina Stadium, with TTSA emerging as champions after a series of determined performances. The campaign began on August 16, 2025, in the Round of 16, where TTSA secured a convincing 2-0 victory over Cosmos FC. The following day, the team faced a stern challenge in the quarterfinals against Ten Percent. After a tense encounter, the match ended in a 3-3 draw, but TTSA held their nerve in the penalty shootout to win 3-2 and advance.
In the semifinals, TTSA displayed resilience and tactical discipline, edging Potch Academy 1-0 to book their spot in the final. The championship clash against Sibanda United FC was a showcase of skill, passion, and determination. After a tightly contested match that ended 2-2, the title was decided on penalties. TTSA triumphed 4-2 in the shootout, securing the championship crown. With their consistent performances and unwavering fighting spirit, TTSA were deservedly crowned champions of the Dlala Diski Mshaya Under-15 Tournament. Their journey demonstrated teamwork, resilience under pressure, and a winning mentality that set them apart from the competition.
Modified Hockey Launch Kicks Off in North West Province
The South African Hockey Association (SAHA), in collaboration with North West Hockey and Promosa High School, has launched a groundbreaking Modified Hockey programme in the Dr Kenneth Kaunda District. The two-day event, which began yesterday and concludes today, marks a major step in promoting grassroots hockey development in schools. On Wednesday, 20 August 2025, Promosa High hosted the first sessions of the launch. Physical education teachers attended a technical skills workshop facilitated by Gary Dolley, where they explored how to integrate modified hockey into physical education through adapted games. In the afternoon, a Level 0 Coaching Course was conducted for 25 identified teachers from Promosa, Ikageng, and Klerksdorp.
The initiative also included training for two additional facilitators who will help roll out the programme across other districts. This first day laid a strong foundation for equipping educators with the skills to deliver hockey at the school level.
Thursday, 21 August 2025, the focus shifted to learners and schools. The programme started with a site visit to Keagile Primary, where a modified hockey session was demonstrated. Importantly, 10 schools received equipment as part of SAHA’s commitment to expanding access to the sport. The Modified Hockey initiative is designed to make the sport more accessible and inclusive, ensuring that children from diverse backgrounds can participate. By training teachers and supplying schools with equipment, SAHA aims to create sustainable pathways for hockey development from grassroots to competitive levels.
Project Manager Gary Dolley emphasised the importance of investing in schools and teachers to grow the sport. The programme is expected to expand further into other districts in the near future, building a stronger base for South African hockey.
StroomCares
Potch Stands Together: A Moving Second Vat Verniet Tafel
In the days leading up to Saturday, 16 August 2025, the offices of Mooirivier Beskerming no longer looked like offices at all. Boxes, bags and crates of donated goods filled every corner, visible proof of a community opening its heart.
On Friday, 15 August, organisers expressed gratitude to generous contributors like Pieter Bester and Okkie van der Westhuizen, who delivered large quantities of canned food, rice, cooldrinks and other essentials. “Ons tel nou die minute af, ” volunteers shared, busy with the final round of sorting and packing. The sense of expectation was palpable: neighbours knew something meaningful was about to unfold. By early morning on Saturday, queues had already begun to form outside Mooirivier Beskerming.
Families, young and old, waited patiently, and before long the street filled with people. Volunteers in bright spirits welcomed them, directing some to clothing rails, others to the food tables, and many to simple conversations of encouragement. This second Vat Verniet Tafel proved even bigger than the first. There was more stock to distribute - clothing, shoes, toiletries, children’s toys, and Bibles in different languages and there were more hands to help. Volunteers poured their energy into ensuring the day ran smoothly, often working tirelessly without pause.
From food parcels and shoes to warm smiles and prayer, every contribution mattered. Potchefstroom once again showed that a community’s strength lies in how it uplifts its most vulnerable. The second Vat Verniet Tafel was not just about giving away goods, it was about restoring dignity, creating connection, and making God’s love visible in practical ways.
Vote for Potchefstroom’s Santi Britz as Inspirasievrou 2025
Potchefstroom’s own Santi Britz has been named one of the top 50 finalists for Voelgoed Media’s Inspirasievrou 2025 award, a recognition that honours extraordinary women across South Africa who make a significant difference in the lives of others.
Originally from Johannesburg, Britz has lived in Potchefstroom for 24 years. In 2009 she experienced the trauma of rape, followed by a court case that led to the conviction and life sentence of her attacker. The experience led her to dedicate her life to supporting survivors of gender-based violence, creating safe spaces for healing, and building structures of support where they were lacking.
In the aftermath of her personal ordeal, Britz was encouraged by a symbolic gesture of kindness that would later inspire the creation of iDUC (Initiative for Dedicated Upliftment and Care). Over the years, iDUC has grown into a multifaceted support network. The organisation provides assistance to victims of abuse, partners with crisis centres, drives awareness campaigns aimed at men, and runs genderbased violence programmes at universities. It also works in collaboration with Athletics South Africa to safeguard athletes against abuse. The Inspirasievrou initiative, run by Voelgoed Media in partnership with Finbond and Helpende Hand, aims to highlight South Africa’s most inspiring women.
Fifty women are shortlisted before the panel of judges selects ten finalists. The public’s votes are taken into account when the final winner is announced at a special event on 1 November 2025. Britz’s selection as one of the top 50 candidates underscores her impact not only in Potchefstroom but also nationally, where her advocacy and work through iDUC have reached thousands.
How to vote:
SMS Inspirasie 7 to 33282 for 1 vote (R1.50)
SMS Inspirasie 7 to 39051 for 11 votes (R15)
SMS Inspirasie 7 to 41014 for 21 votes (R25)
Link for voting information: https://voelgoed.co.za/inspirasievrou/britz/
*Voting closes on 31 August 2025
Potch se Diere
Let’s Support Paws Haven on International Dog Day
Every year on August 26, International Dog Day invites us to honour the loyalty, companionship, and invaluable contributions of dogs across the globe. Established in 2004 by animal welfare advocate and pet expert Colleen Paige, the date marks a personal milestone, when her family adopted their first dog, "Sheltie, " from a shelter. More than just a celebration, the day serves as a vital reminder of the importance of adopting from shelters, acknowledging working and rescue dogs, and promoting responsible pet ownership.
International Dog Day isn't only about celebrating our furry companions; it also raises global awareness about the plight of abandoned, stray, and shelter dogs. The day encourages people to consider adoption, support animal welfare initiatives, and appreciate the powerful bond between humans and canines whether as beloved pets, working partners, or loyal service animals.
At Paws Haven Potchefstroom, there is a continuous daily challenge to provide care for approximately 750 abandoned animals, a significant portion being dogs. The cost of feeding, housing, cleaning, medicating, and general care is rising, and the shelter urgently needs community support. Please open your hearts by making a donation to ensure these animals have food, shelter, and medical care.
Bank Details:
Account Name: Paws Haven Npc
Bank: Nedbank
Account Type: Current Account
Acc No: 1321565046
Branch Code: 198765
Reference: Food Donation
Proof of Payment: Send to 063 181 3524
By supporting Paws Haven, you help sustain a safe haven for hundreds of voiceless animals awaiting their chance at a loving home. Let’s turn appreciation into action, because every dog (and other animal) deserves a life filled with care and dignity. Terms and conditions for adoption apply.
Sport & Kultuur
Potchefstroom Gimnasium
Gimmies is baie trots op Hayley Lues, Andrea Steynberg en al ons landloopatlete wat by die Noordweslandloopkampioenskappe puik presteer het.
Die matrieks van Cachet en Brandwag het hul matriekontbyt saam gevier - ’n welverdiende bederf ná ’n jaar van harde werk, groei en prestasie.
Hoër Volkskool Potchefstroom
Volkies Potch vier ’n trotse kultuur-oomblik ná uitstaande deelname by die Allegretto Eisteddfod. Ons leerders het met selfvertroue en styl opgetree en puik uitslae behaal oor ’n wye reeks dissiplines.
’n Groep talentvolle musiekleerders het hul UNISA-teorieeksamen met welslae afgelê. Hierdie prestasie wys nie net op sterk teoretiese begrip nie, maar ook op die ure se harde werk, dissipline en ondersteuning deur onderwysers en ouers.
Potchefstroom Central School
Potchefstroom Central School is bursting with pride after Atlegang Nthite (U/10) struck gold at the ACNW Cross Country Championships, earning the title of North West Champion.
StudyXPress Potchefstroom
StudyXpress Potch het sy eerste sportbyeenkoms aangepak en die energie was aansteeklik! Ons sokker- en netbalspanne het alles uitgehaal, terwyl ouers, vriende en mede-StudyXpress-spanne die kantlyn laat leef het. Die gees, respek en sportmanskap het die dag gekleur.
Klerksdorp Hoërskool
Klerksdorp Hoërskool se landloop-atlete het die naweek uitstekend vertoon by die Noordweskampioenskap. Van vasbyt op lang stygings tot slim tempo-bestuur, die span het karakter, dissipline en spanwerk gewys.
Technical High School Klerksdorp
Technical High School Klerksdorp is beaming with pride after our U/15 boys showed real grit and composure to clinch the Noordvaal 4th Division title. It was a high-intensity clash with big moments on defence and calm heads when it mattered most, proof that hard work and team work pay off.
Skool Stories
Saamtrek se Millika Horn skitter by Centurion CGC – vier goud én ’n brons!
Laerskool Saamtrek is trots op Millika Horn, wat ’n uitmuntende vertoning gelewer het by die Centurion CGC-kompetisie. Sy het Klerksdorp School of Gymnastics in Vlak 4 verteenwoordig en met ’n medalje-oes huis toe gekeer. Vlak 4 vereis netjiese tegniek, konsekwentheid en fokus op elke apparaat.
Millika se balans op balk, krag op spronge en vloeiende roetine op vloer wys haar harde werk in die oefensaal en die gehalte afrigting by Klerksdorp School of Gymnastics. Saamtrek beklemtoon dat Millika ’n rolmodel is vir jong gimnaste: toegewy, nederig en vasberade. Hierdie prestasie is ’n mylpaal in haar gimnastiekreis en ’n inspirasie vir almal wat droom om op die podium te staan.
Uitslae
Algeheel - Goud
Vloer - Goud
Spronge (Vault) - Goud
Balk - Goud
Brug / Ongelyke bars (Bars) - Brons
Advertisement - ORKA Solar
As South Africa continues to explore cleaner, more reliable energy options, one Potchefstroom-based company is making a real impact. Founded in 2009, Orka Solar has become a trusted name in the solar industry, offering practical and affordable energy alternatives for homes, businesses, and farms.
Kar Stories
Suzuki’s July Momentum: Model Snapshots for Shoppers in Potchefstroom
Suzuki Auto South Africa continues its winning streak in July, notching up impressive milestones and maintaining its momentum as one of the country’s top automotive brands. Suzuki Auto South Africa is celebrating another strong month of new vehicle sales, achieving its second-highest monthly total to date. According to the latest sales report from industry body NAAMSA, 6,257 new Suzuki vehicles were sold locally in July 2025.
This is just 142 units shy of the brand’s all-time record of 6,399 units set in January. Breaking down the numbers, 5,069 units were sold through the dealer network – surpassing the previous dealer sales record set in April by 54 units. The remaining 1,188 units went to fleet, rental and government customers. This performance once again secures Suzuki Auto South Africa the number two spot in the national vehicle sales rankings by manufacturer, a position it has maintained consistently since the start of the year.
Leading July’s sales was the new fourth-generation Swift, with 1,872 units sold. Close behind was the Fronx with 1,220 units, followed by the Ertiga (980 units), S-Presso (445 units), and the Baleno, which rounded out the top five with 401 units.
Events Calendar
The Go-To Guy has an extensive events calendar that you can find a variety of events in and around Potchefstroom, in fact it is now one of the most comprehensive calendars in our region, you can visit the calendar at the following link: Events Calendar
Date Night at Die Local Pub - 4 September
Venue: Die Local Pub, 70 Walter Sisulu Ln
Date: Thursday, 4 September 2025
Time: 18:00 – 22:00
Price: R280 per person
Bookings: WhatsApp Thea on 082 556 0779 or WhatsApp/Phone Kayna on 072 396 3916
The concept is straightforward: one film, seven dishes, and a chance to eat your way through the story. It is being run in collaboration with Purple Carrot School of Culinary Art, so the food won’t just be cinema snacks. If you’ve ever watched a food movie and thought, “I’d smash that right now” , here’s your chance. The evening is designed for couples, friends, or anyone who fancies something a little more interactive than a quiet night at the movies.
North West Youth Ballet brings Swan Lake to Potchefstroom
Venue: NWU Sanlam Auditorium
Dates: 11 and 12 September 2025
Tickets: Between R220 and R280
The North-West Youth Ballet will present Swan Lake, Tchaikovsky’s classic ballet, at the Sanlam Auditorium. The production will feature dancers of all ages, with the central roles of Prince Siegfried and Odette performed by professional dancers from Joburg Ballet. Swan Lake is one of the most performed ballets worldwide, telling the tale of Prince Siegfried and Odette, a princess cursed by the sorcerer Von Rothbart. Siegfried swears eternal love to Odette, not knowing the curse stands firmly in his way. The ballet mixes themes of love, deception, and sacrifice with choreography that has kept audiences captivated for generations.
To view the entire edition, simply download it below. Until next month!
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