The Gazette - December 2025 Edition
- Johané
- 6 hours ago
- 15 min read
In this edition
LiggieFees 2025 - ‘n Ware skouspel van ligte
Community Stands Together in Final Respects for Johnathan Fourie
The Bravery of Two Firefighters: Above and Beyond the Call of Duty
Dual Epidemic Dialogue: GBV and HIV/AIDS
Kayo Stars FC Crowned 2025 DR KK Regional Women’s League Champions
Ikageng Hosts Its 1st Annual Fun Day on 27 December
Potch, Let's Help: Making Christmas Visible Through Practical Love
Potch, kom ons help ’n gesin in nood
Ons maandelikse gebeurteniskalender hou jou op hoogte van alles wat gebeur
Meet Santa's Pawsome Pit Crew: Tail Wags and Holiday Magic Await at PAWS Haven
AJ Brits Oorheers die Water vir Wesvalia
Wessie-netbal se Goue Era lewer Silwer op Nasionale Verhoog
Curro Represents Dr. KK at Regional Showdown
Van die Eikebaan na die URC
Oos-Driefontein Achieves Admin Perfection
New chapter for Languages at Potch Primary
Poise and Power: Potch Gymnasts Take on Region 5 Championships
The Penta Experience: Exploring the Versatility and Value of the Suzuki Range
Gemeenskap Stories
LiggieFees 2025 - ‘n Ware skouspel van ligte
Nes elke Desember is daar groot opwinding, nie net omdat dit die Kersseisoen is nie, maar omdat dit weer tyd is vir Abraham Kriel Kinderhuis se LiggieFees. Hordes mense besoek elke aand die gronde vanaf 28 November - 31 Desember om die skouspel van liggies te beleef.
Vanjaar se LiggieFees is besonder spesiaal - dit is die fees se tiende bestaansjaar. Wat begin het met ‘n paar duisend liggies, groot drome en ‘n groter verwagting, het ontplof in miljoene liggies, drome wat waar word en verwagtinge wat jaar na jaar oortref word. Die voorbereiding vir die fees begin al vroeg-vroeg en in April word die liggies stelselmatig opgehang. Dit is te verstane, aangesien dit ‘n allemintige taak is!
Van jonk na oud loop in verwondering en staar na die motiewe, liggies wat met musiek gesinchroniseer is sorg vir wonderlike video’s en om elke hoek en draai is daar ‘n foto-geleentheid.
Die kerrie en rys, pannekoek en rib rolle is op hul gewone staanplek. Vanjaar is Pesto’s ook daar met die heerlikste koek - beslis ‘n stalletjie wat elke soettand moet besoek. Koffie en ander drinkgoed is ook natuurlik beskikbaar en daar is selfs ‘n snoepie (nie nét vir die jongspan nie).
Omrede vanjaar ‘n gróót viering is, het Abraham Kriel Kinderhuis gróót name gekry om hierdie spesiale bestaansjaar te vier. Besoekers kan nog uitsien na Bobby van Jaarsveld, Kurt Darren, Jo Black en Bernice West - om slegs ‘n paar te noem.
Baie dankie dat julle altyd julle harte en deure vir die gemeenskap oopmaak, Abraham Kriel Kinderhuis. Dit is ‘n voorreg om ‘n bydrae te lewer in die lewens van jul kinders. Dankie aan die personeel wat hierdie enorme taak jaar na jaar aanpak om dit elke keer ‘n sukses te maak. Dit is beslis ‘n hoogtepunt op almal se kalenders.
Ons sien alreeds uit na LiggieFees 2026!
Community Stands Together in Final Respects for Johnathan Fourie
The Potchefstroom community came together on Monday, 8 December, to pay their final respects and celebrate the life of Johnathan Robert Fourie (5/6/1973–10/11/2025). The moving Celebration of Life service, held at Duet Gemeente in Van der Hoff Park, was attended by a large crowd of family, friends, colleagues, and community members, all mourning the tragic loss of one of "Potch’s favourite sons".
The service, led by the dynamic Pastor Henry, was a powerful testament to the impactful life Johnathan Fourie led as a respected leader in the community and a beloved family man. The event was also live-streamed on the Fourie’s Poultry Farms (Chubby Chick) Facebook page, allowing the wider community to join the remembrance online.
Johnathan's wife, Nadine, and children, Robby and Debbie, bravely shared their heartfelt memories and moments. Their tributes painted a picture of a husband and father who was:
Highly respected, honest, and fair.
A man of integrity with incredible values.
A caring, loving person who approached responsibility with leadership and humility.
A man who had the unique gift of making ordinary life extraordinary.
Attendees heard that Johnathan always had time for everyone, gave generously from his heart, but never asked for anything in return.
The service honoured his enduring legacy of compassion and community impact, with the final sentiment being May His Dear Soul Rest in Peace.
The attendance at the memorial and the continuous updates from the Fourie family, shared by groups like the Potch Old Boys, underscore the solidarity and unity demonstrated by the community since the tragedy occurred. Johnathan Fourie, affectionately remembered as "Mr. Chubby Chick", may be gone, but his spirit and contribution to Potchefstroom will never be forgotten.
The Bravery of Two Firefighters: Above and Beyond the Call of Duty
On October 7, 2025, what began as a routine day of burning and fire break preparation took a sudden, dangerous turn. As the day progressed, unexpected high winds whipped up, causing a section of the prepared fire break to reignite. The fire rapidly gathered strength and began moving quickly toward the farm's boundary.
The Incident Commander (IC) and several firefighters responded promptly, arriving on the scene. Their swift, coordinated action managed to extinguish the flare-up quickly, minimising the immediate threat to the surrounding area.
Following standard operating procedures, all response vehicles were instructed to operate strictly within the already burnt sections of land. However, the density of the dormant grass in these areas was significant, generating intense, unseen heat.
This extreme heat caused a catastrophic failure: the fuel line beneath the IC's response vehicle melted, allowing diesel to drip onto the scorched ground. In a matter of moments, the dripping fuel ignited, and flames began to engulf the underside of the vehicle. The IC was completely unaware of the raging fire growing directly beneath him.
It took the alertness and quick thinking of two firefighters to spot the danger. They immediately began spraying water underneath the vehicle to suppress the flames, alerting the IC to the immediate threat. By this time, the fire had already begun to damage the vehicle's exterior.
Without hesitation, these two firefighters acted decisively. They opened the vehicle door and, pulling the IC to safety through the flames, rescued their colleague. All the while, they continued to spray water, ensuring the fire was fully extinguished and preventing further destruction. Thanks to their decisive and courageous actions, the vehicle sustained only minor damage, and, most importantly, the Incident Commander's life was saved.
The professionalism, quick thinking, and willingness of these two firefighters to risk their own safety to protect a colleague and property are truly commendable. This heroic act perfectly exemplifies a dedication that goes above and beyond the call of duty.
The Trauma First Responders Chaplaincy recognised this brave and courageous act, and proudly awarded them with the 2025 Bravery Award, Ofenste Hendrik Marope and John Marola.
Dual Epidemic Dialogue: GBV and HIV/AIDS
As part of the national 16 Days of Activism campaign, North-West University’s Potchefstroom Campus hosted a breakfast meeting on 1 December 2025, bringing together experts, activists and legal professionals to address South Africa’s long-standing dual epidemic of gender-based violence (GBV) and HIV/AIDS. Speakers emphasised that these crises are deeply interconnected, with many survivors of GBV later contracting HIV, often resulting in shame, stigma and inadequate access to treatment.
Panelists (including representatives from law, healthcare, activism and the judiciary) shared personal experiences and professional insights to highlight the profound effects of these issues on victims. They stressed the need for communities to move beyond observation and become active participants in prevention, support and justice.
The NWU School of Law announced the establishment of support centres across all three campuses to assist victims with mental and physical health needs. Speakers like Hannie Stevenson highlighted the importance of education and empowerment for those diagnosed with HIV/AIDS, reminding attendees that healing begins when individuals feel safe to own their stories.
Magistrate Viglia Bester delivered a powerful message describing GBV as a betrayal of humanity and stressing that both GBV and HIV/AIDS stigma are rooted in silence, inequality and social judgment. She called for the creation of safer environments in homes, schools and workplaces, underlining the shared responsibility of communities and justice systems.
Dr Annah Mabunda urged caution against telling victims to simply leave abusive relationships, explaining that many remain because they lack support or safe alternatives. She emphasised the need for strong collaboration between healthcare providers, police, social workers, courts and communities.
The event concluded with a Q&A session where attendees shared experiences and expressed appreciation for the panel’s insights. Participants left with renewed motivation to confront GBV and HIV/AIDS stigma, promote justice, and support survivors.
The overarching message was clear: ending silence, challenging stigma, and fostering compassion and community involvement are essential to creating a safer, more equitable South Africa.
Kayo Stars FC Crowned 2025 DR KK Regional Women’s League Champions
Kayo Stars FC has made regional football history by winning the 2025 DR KK Regional Women’s League Championship, a proud milestone for the club, its players, and the community. Their victory follows a season defined by determination, discipline, and outstanding teamwork.
A celebratory montage highlights the players, coaches, and supporters whose collective commitment drove the team to the top.
Throughout the season, Kayo Stars FC showed impressive consistency, combining attacking creativity, strong defence, and tactical maturity. The coaching staff’s dedication to training and player development helped shape a confident, cohesive squad.
This championship is more than a sporting achievement, it is a powerful moment for women’s empowerment. The team’s success inspires young girls and strengthens the call for greater visibility and support for women in sport. Community backing played a vital role, with fans and families rallying behind the club all season.
With their first regional title secured, Kayo Stars FC is building a legacy. Increased recognition, strong leadership, and rising interest from young talent signal a bright future. Their journey shows that with passion and perseverance, greatness is possible.
Ikageng Hosts Its 1st Annual Fun Day on 27 December
Ikageng is gearing up for an exciting community celebration as the 1st Annual Fun Day takes place on 27 December. The event is organised by Blackson, Orion Music Entertainment and Spacenation in partnership with the Kagiso Lerefelo Foundation. It promises a full day of entertainment, family activities and vibrant local performances.
Taking place at Black Spot Carwash in Ikageng, Potchefstroom, the Fun Day will bring together residents and visitors for a festive experience that caters to all ages. Families can look forward to an inviting atmosphere filled with music, food and entertainment.
Beyond the stage performances, the Fun Day is designed to be family friendly. A dedicated kiddies’ area will offer games and activities to keep children entertained and engaged. Parents and adults can relax knowing there is something for everyone, whether they are enjoying the music or spending time in the family zones.
Food lovers can look forward to a wide selection of meals and refreshments available for purchase at the venue. For those who prefer a more hands-on experience, a designated braai area will be available for guests who want to prepare their own meat. Cooler boxes are welcome for a small fee of R30 after 7 PM, encouraging attendees to settle in and enjoy the evening comfortably.
IBeyond the stage performances, the Fun Day is designed to be family friendly. A dedicated kiddies’ area will offer games and activities to keep children entertained and engaged. Parents and adults can relax knowing there is something for everyone, whether they are enjoying the music or spending time in the family zones.
Event details:
Venue: Black Spot Carwash, Ikageng, Potchefstroom
Address for Family Fun Zone: 449 Pinang Street, Ikageng (Jerusalema), Potchefstroom
Date: 27 December 2025
Time: From 11:00 AM until late
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Potch, Let's Help: Making Christmas Visible Through Practical Love
With the festive season fast approaching, the Vat Verniet Tafel is intensifying its efforts to create special moments for families in need. The current focus is on assembling comprehensive food hampers for parents and individual joy packages for children. The team emphasises that continued community support is crucial to making this day truly special.
The organisation is specifically calling for donations of essential goods to fill the food hampers for parents. These items represent basic necessities that can significantly alleviate the strain on struggling families:
Mieliemeel (Maize Meal)
Soap and Toothpaste (Toiletries)
Canned Foods (Blikkieskos)
Salt (Sout)
Tea
Cookies
Pasta
Soya Mince
Any other basic necessities
For the younger members of the families, the focus is on creating packages that bring pure delight, fulfilling the dream of enabling children to "just be kids" without worry.
Sweets and Treats (Lekkernye)
Stationery (Skryfbehoeftes)
Toys
The message from the Vat Verniet Tafel is clear: Every little bit of help makes a difference. Those who wish to contribute to the hamper and package drive can drop off their donations at Mooirivier Beskerming.
For any enquiries regarding donations or the project, community members are encouraged to contact 067 080 2757. The Vat Verniet Tafel extends a massive thank you to Potch for its ongoing, loving support.
Potch, kom ons help 'n gesin in nood
Daar is ’n gesin in ons gemeenskap wat tans deur ’n baie moeilike tyd gaan. ’n Ma en pa met hul 17-maande-oue baba probeer elke dag om kop bo water te hou, maar hulle beleef swaar tye. Soos baie ander in ons dorp, het die ekonomiese druk en alledaagse uitgawes eenvoudig te veel geraak.
Hulle probeer met alles in hul vermoë om te oorleef en vir hul kind te sorg. Die ma bly tuis om na die baba te kyk, terwyl die pa help waar hy kan. Ten spyte van hul pogings is daar net nie genoeg geld om die basiese behoeftes te dek nie. Tog bly hulle positief en hou vas aan geloof dat daar steeds mense is wat omgee.
Hulle vra nie vir geld nie, net vir hulp met kos, basiese huishoudelike produkte, babadoeke, melk en kos vir hul kleinding. Enige klere donasies sal ook welkom wees, die baba dra 18 tot 24 maande grootte klere.
Hierdie eenvoudige dinge kan vir hulle ’n groot verskil maak en verligting bring in ’n tyd waar elke bietjie tel. In tye soos hierdie word ’n gemeenskap se ware hart sigbaar. Potch het al soveel keer gewys dat ons saamstaan wanneer iemand in nood is. Kom ons doen dit weer. Elke bydrae, groot of klein, maak ’n verskil.
As jy graag wil help, kan jy die ma direk kontak by 064 799 2868. Jou hand van hulp kan hierdie gesin se maand ligter maak, en vir ’n klein kindjie die sekuriteit gee wat elke kind verdien.
Potch se Diere
Meet Santa's Pawsome Pit Crew: Tail Wags and Holiday Magic Await at PAWS Haven
This Christmas, PAWS Haven's workshop is running on pure love and tail wags. The shelter has assembled a special team of fuzzy helpers who have been tasked with the most important jobs of the season. These dedicated dogs, affectionately known as Santa's Pawsome Pit Crew, are ready to fill their forever homes with maximum sparkle, cheer, and holiday dazzle.
Each member of Santa's Pawsome Pit Crew is patiently waiting for their forever family. They promise to be devoted companions, filling homes with joy, cuddles, and endless love.
If you’re looking for a loyal companion or want to help animals in need, visit Paws Haven to meet these amazing dogs and cats. You can also contribute through donations of food, supplies, or financial support.
📞 Contact: 063 181 3524
🌐 Email: info@pawshaven.co.za
Because every wag, purr, and cuddle tells a story of hope, and yours could be the next chapter.
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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. You can read all about this local company here: ORKA Solar Profile
Sport & Kultuur
Hoërskool Wesvalia
In die wêreld van mededingende swem en lewensredding is dit reeds 'n reuse prestasie om 'n medalje te wen. Om ses goue medaljes op een dag te verower, is uitsonderlik. Maar om daardie ses goue medaljes te kombineer met ses nuwe persoonlike beste tye (PB's), grens aan die ongelooflike.
Dit is presies wat AJ Brits, 'n trotse leerder van Hoërskool Wesvalia, die afgelope naweek vermag het tydens die Gauteng North Lifesaving Prestige Gala.
Tydens die hoogaangeskrewe 2025 Spar Nasionale Kampioenskappe, het twee bekende gesigte uit die Wessie-kamp gesorg dat die Dr. Kenneth Kaunda (Dr. KK) distrik se naam hoog gehou word. Carmen de Lange, voormalige afrigter van Wesvalia se eerstespan, en Jana Jacobs, die skool se voormalige kaptein, het weer kragte saamgesnoer.
Curro Klerksdorp
Curro Klerksdorp has announced with great pride that three of its sharpest minds have been selected to represent not only the school but the entire Dr. Kenneth Kaunda (Dr. KK) District. Liam Abraham, Chathem Appels, and Boipelo Moloantoa are currently competing at the prestigious Gauteng Inter-Region Chess Championship.
Hoër Volkskool
Dit is nie elke dag dat ’n skool kan spog dat een van hul oud-leerders die man in die middel is tydens ’n internasionale rugbykragmeting nie. Hoërskool Volkskool Potchefstroom het vandag met groot trots aangekondig dat Hanru van Rooyen, ’n lid van die matriekklas van 2017, sy buiging as skeidsregter in die Verenigde Rugbykampioenskap (URC) gaan maak.
Laerskool Oos-Driefontein
Laerskool Oos-Driefontein has bucked the trend of year-end stress by achieving the "holy grail" of school administration: a successful, one-time submission.
The school announced on Friday that their Grade 4 to 6 educators, along with their Departmental Heads (DHs), have successfully ratified and signed off on the Term 4 schedules.
Potchefstroom Primary School
Language is the foundation of all learning. It is the tool with which children unlock Science, Mathematics, and their understanding of the world. Recognising the vital importance of this portfolio, Potchefstroom Primary School has made a significant appointment to their senior management team. The school announced today that Mrs. Madelyn Burger has been appointed as the new Head of Department (HOD) for Languages.
Skool Stories
Poise and Power: Potch Gymnasts Take on Region 5 Championships
Gymnastics is often described as the perfect blend of art and athleticism. It requires the grace of a dancer and the strength of a weightlifter. This week, two of Potchefstroom’s finest exports are proving they have both in abundance as they step onto the international stage.
Potchefstroom Gymnastics Academy (PGA) has announced that Haylee and Ilana are currently representing the club, the North West Province, and South Africa at the prestigious 2025 Region 5 Championships.
Reaching the level of a regional championship, which usually involves top talent from across Southern Africa, is not something that happens overnight. It is the culmination of years of early mornings, blistered hands, and the relentless pursuit of perfection.
The Academy expressed immense pride in the duo, stating: "Your dedication, discipline, and countless hours of training have brought you to this moment."
For Haylee and Ilana, the hard work is done. Now comes the mental game. Competing internationally brings a different kind of pressure, but the message from their home club is one of calm confidence.
"Perform with confidence, grace, and joy. Trust your training," the PGA management advised. It is a reminder that while the stage is bigger, the apparatus remains the same, and their skills are solid.
While they are members of the Potchefstroom Gymnastics Academy, their role at this competition is far greater. They are ambassadors for the North West Province and are wearing the South African colors. It is a proud moment for the local sporting community to see Potchefstroom talent holding their own against international competition.
We join the Academy in saying: "Enjoy every second on the big stage." Good luck, Haylee and Ilana, Potch is behind you all the way!
Kar Stories
The Penta Experience: Exploring the Versatility and Value of the Suzuki Range
The Suzuki range offers one of the strongest and most versatile vehicle lineups on the market, combining Japanese engineering, excellent fuel efficiency, and strong value across multiple segments. The Penta Experience showcases six key models, each designed to meet different lifestyle and budget needs.
Swift: A nimble, lightweight urban hatchback known for sporty handling, low fuel consumption, and modern safety and infotainment features.
Ertiga: A practical 7-seater MPV offering flexible seating, strong comfort features such as rear AC vents, and reliable performance for families.
Celerio: A highly efficient city car with class-leading fuel economy, Dualjet engine technology, Auto Stop-Start, and surprisingly generous boot space.
S-Presso: A compact SUV-styled city car with excellent ground clearance, efficient Dualjet engine options, and youthful design appeal.
Jimny: A compact yet highly capable 4x4 built on a ladder-frame chassis with ALLGRIP PRO technology, delivering true off-road performance.
Baleno: A premium hatchback focused on space and advanced technology, including a Head-Up Display, 360° camera system, and high-quality interior finishes.
Overall, Suzuki’s lineup reflects a clear engineering focus on efficiency, practicality, reliability, and value - offering strong options for urban commuters, families, budget-conscious drivers, and adventure seekers alike.
For more information, contact:
📞 018 005 5735
📍 27 Nelson Mandela Drive, Potchefstroom
Business Card: https://www.thegotoguy.co.za/potchefstroom/penta-suzuki
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
Slithering into the New Year: Kids Adventure Club Hosts Creature Event - 17 January
Date: Saturday, 17 January 2026
Time: 09h00 - 11h30
Venue: Lekwena Private Wildlife Estate
Price: R250 (non-members), Standard fee (members)
Contact: Trudie 082-459-7702.
The Kids Adventure Club is kicking off its 2026 calendar with a wildly exciting event: a Snake Awareness and other Cool Creatures session set to enthral young naturalists. This year's adventures are starting with a focus on South Africa's scaly and fascinating fauna.
Bert's Bricks Great Brick Run - 24 January
Date: 24 January 2026
Time: From 05h00
Venue: Snowflake
Contacts: Ronel du Toit: 083-571-281 / Cheri Oosthuizen: 082-827-9153
The 42nd edition of the Great Brick Run will take place on Saturday, 24 January 2026 in Potchefstroom. The event is hosted by Berts Bricks Atletiekklub with the support of ACNW and Protime. Runners will once again set off from the Snowflake Building at 2 Kock Street.
Three race distances are available:
21.1 km: Online entry R170, day entry R220, start 06:15
10 km: Online entry R120, day entry R170, start 06:20
4.9 km: Online entry R40, day entry R60, start 06:20
Race day entries open from 05:00. Temporary licences are available for R70 and are required for the 21.1 km and 10 km events if a runner does not already hold an ASA licence.
Take a look at the entire edition by downloading it below. That's a wrap for The Gazette 2025. From all of us at The Go-To Guy, we wish you and your loved ones a happy festive season. If you're travelling, be safe on the roads and enjoy your well-deserved break.
We can't wait to tell your stories in 2026!
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