The Weekly Diary: Potholes, Productivity, and New Prospects

Charlene Bekker
1 hour ago
5 min read

Welcome back, Potchefstroom! Can you believe we are already wrapping up the first full month of 2026? It feels like just yesterday we were counting down the seconds to midnight, and now, The Go-To Guy team is firing on all cylinders.

Since we officially opened our doors for the year on January 12th, the office has been a hive of activity. Between welcoming back long-standing clients and mapping out marketing strategies for new local businesses, the energy has been electric.

But as you know, we don’t just stay behind our desks. Our team has been out in the streets, visiting schools to capture those nervous first-day smiles and chatting with parents about their hopes for the academic year ahead.

Grab a cup of coffee and settle in,this week’s diary is a big one, covering everything from infrastructure challenges to the best places to get your home "Sorted."

Our Eyes in the Field: Reporting from the Streets

Our "Eyes in the Field" segment isn't just about news; it’s about accountability and community well-being. This week, we focused heavily on the infrastructure issues affecting both our residents and our local economy.

January 14: Progress and Pressure at Abraham Kriel

On Wednesday, we sat down with Johan Zerwick to discuss the ongoing sewage crisis near the Abraham Kriel Children's Home. It is a sensitive area, and the impact of the leak was reaching a critical point.

The good news? The municipality is currently on-site and actively working to address the problem. We believe in giving credit where it's due, and it is important to acknowledge that action is being taken. However, as Johan pointed out, the bigger picture is more concerning.

When infrastructure is neglected over long periods, these "fixes" are often just Band-Aids on a larger wound. Preventative maintenance isn’t a luxury,it’s a necessity for the health of our children and the dignity of our community. We will continue to ask the tough questions to ensure this doesn't become a recurring headline.

January 14: Industrial Impact

The sewage woes haven't been limited to residential areas. Over in Potchefstroom Industria, the situation has turned dire. In some spots, wastewater has been standing for days, even reaching the doorsteps of local businesses.

We spoke with the teams at Reinke and Hero Fibre about how this affects their daily operations. It’s a sobering reminder that infrastructure failures have a direct line to our local economy. When staff and clients have to navigate unsanitary conditions just to get to work, it threatens jobs and productivity. A thriving city needs functional pipes as much as it needs innovative businesses.

January 16: Home Essentials at AJR Hyper

Our first stop was a local favorite: AJR Hyper. If your New Year’s resolution involved getting your home organized or finally replacing that loud washing machine, this is the place.

From sleeper couches perfect for the influx of students to the latest electronics for the upcoming rugby season, AJR Hyper is a one-stop destination. Their team filmed a great segment with us, showcasing how they help locals upgrade their lifestyles without the stress.

Pro Tip: They are open 7 days a week, so even if you're busy during the week, you can pop in on Sunday morning!

January 19: A Walkthrough at Build It

Monday took us to Build It for a quick visual tour. We wanted to show you exactly what’s on special right now. Whether you are mid-renovation or just looking for a few DIY supplies, there are some incredible deals on the floor. Keep an eye on our social media pages, as we’ve been told even bigger offers are dropping later this week!

January 21: Safety First with Tiger Wheel & Tyre

After the long December holiday, your car has likely taken a beating from the road (and the occasional pothole). We visited Tiger Wheel & Tyre to see how they keep Potch moving safely. It’s not just about tires; it’s about a full health check for your vehicle.

We looked at:

Precision Alignment: Essential for a smooth ride and tire longevity.
Wheel Repairs: Fixing those rim dings from holiday travel.
Adventure Gear: For the 4x4 enthusiasts, they are a hub for Rhinoman, Ironman 4x4, and Front Runner gear. Don’t wait for a breakdown,get your safety Sorted. before the February rush.

Ikageng: Stories of Ambition and Education

Our Ikageng segment continues to be a highlight of our week, focusing on the people shaping the future of our youth.

January 14: Back to School at Boitshoko High

The "Day 1" energy at Boitshoko High School was infectious! We were there to witness the gates opening for 2026. There is something special about the first day,the crisp uniforms, the nervous energy, and the dedication of the teachers.

January 14: Insights from the Marking Centres

Later that day, we headed into our StroomStories studio for an in-depth interview with Mrs. Ntsime from Boitshoko High. She provided a fascinating look into the professional rigors of provincial marking centers. We discussed the emotional transition educators make from the classroom to the marking table and her high expectations for the Class of 2026. It’s clear that under her guidance, the school is aiming for the stars this year.

January 15: Grit and Success with Leatile Morabe

On Thursday, we had the privilege of interviewing Leatile Morabe, a former Boitshoko High learner. Leatile’s story is one of pure grit and ambition. She shared her journey from classroom struggles to her exciting future plans. Her message to the students of Ikageng was clear: success starts right here, on these streets, if you are willing to work for it.

Bittersweet Goodbyes and New Beginnings

As the week draws to a close, we have some internal news to share.

January 23: Farewell to Johané

Today is a bittersweet day at The Go-To Guy as we say goodbye to our dear colleague, Johané. She has been an integral part of our team, and while we are sad to see her go, we are incredibly proud of her. Johané, we wish you nothing but the absolute best in all your future endeavors. You will be missed!

We’re Hiring: Are You Our Next Journalist?

With growth comes opportunity! We are officially looking for a Full-Time Journalist to join our Potchefstroom team. We aren't looking for a "traditional" resume-only applicant. We want someone who:

Loves this town and its people.
Is fluent in English and Afrikaans.
Is comfortable in front of the camera (and behind the scenes).
Has their own transport and a valid license.

How to apply: Skip the boring cover letter. Send us your CV and a 60-second video introducing yourself to guy@thegotoguy.co.za. Let’s see that personality!

It’s been a whirlwind week, but we wouldn’t have it any other way. Potchefstroom is a town that never stands still, and we are honored to be the ones telling its stories.