Mandela Dag kry bietjie ‘woef’ en ‘miaau’ Potchefstroom se eie Amelia Nasorgsentrum beplan om Mandela Dag (18 Julie) op ‘n heel unieke manier te vier, saam met die viervoetige inwoners van P.A.W.S. Hierdie jaar se poging gaan nie net oor hande vat nie, maar ook pote. Wat gebeur? Die inwoners van Amelia gaan hondekos, katkos en komberse insamel om vir P.A.W.S. af te gee, en dit stop nie daar nie. Hulle gaan self die items aflewer en ‘n oggend saam met die diere spandeer. Dis ‘n hands-on benadering, met hope liefde en ‘n paar nat neuse. Hoe kan jy help? Dis maklik. Jy hoef nie eers jou kar se engine warm te maak nie. Enige donasies van hondekos, katkos of komberse kan direk by Amelia se kantoor ingehandig word. Die idee is om so veel as moontlik bymekaar te maak voor 18 Julie, sodat dié vierpotige vriende ook die liefde van Mandela Dag kan voel. Hoekom P.A.W.S.? P.A.W.S. (Potchefstroom Animal Welfare Society) doen stilweg reuse-werk vir diere in nood. Hulle het ‘n groot hart, maar min hande en hulpbronne. Elke sakkie kos of kombers maak ‘n verskil, en Amelia wil graag daardie verskil maak. Details vir donasies As jy wil betrokke raak of net meer wil weet, hier is hoe jy hulle kan kontak: Facebook: Amelia Nasorgsentrum Telefoon: 018-290-5543 E-pos: admin@amelianasorg.co.za 5 Richardson Straat, Potchefstroom Soos hulle sê, elke hond het sy dag. Kom ons maak 18 Julie daardie dag vir ‘n paar van hulle. En as ‘n kat dalk ook ‘n ekstra snoesige kombersie kry in die proses, des te beter. Kom drop daai kosblik af, bring ‘n kombers of twee, en wys ‘n bietjie liefde, want wie het gesê Mandela Dag moet net vir mense wees? 🐶🐱

The much-loved Thrifty One Market is making a comeback, inviting locals to give their wardrobes a spring clean and maybe earn a bit of cash in the process. This preloved clothing market isn't your average secondhand sale, it’s all about good brands, good condition, and good sense. Market Day Details Here’s what you need to know. The market is happening on Saturday, 7 June 2025, from 09:00 to 13:00 at 6 Meyer Street, Die Bult, Potchefstroom. You can find the event on Facebook here , or reach out via email at marici.verster@gmail.com, or better yet, WhatsApp 082 382 4360, which seems to be the preferred communication method. What’s It All About? Thrifty One isn’t just about selling any old jumble of clothes. The focus is on upmarket labels, good quality, and excellent condition. Think curated chaos, but with taste. It’s not a dumping ground for every pair of old tracksuit pants you’ve got lying around. If it's stretched out, faded, pilled, or just plain sad, leave it at home. Clear Your Closet (But Not Like That) For those looking to sell, there are some rules, because standards matter. First off, no underwear, swimwear or sleepwear. And yes, they do check. Clothing must be: Washed and ironed As good as new (no dodgy stains or dodgy smells) Free of pilling, stretch marks, and fading This isn’t a spring-cleaning free-for-all. It’s more of a “quality over quantity” vibe. What Sells and What Doesn't There’s a strong preference for higher-end high-street brands. So if you’ve got items from Zara, Mango, Poetry, Old Khaki, Woolworths, Foschini, or Edgars that no longer spark joy, now’s your time. On the other hand, if your wardrobe is full of Shein, Mr Price or PnP specials, this market probably isn’t your stage. The organisers say it’s not personal, it’s just what buyers are after. People want the brands they can’t always afford brand new, and this market caters for that. Selling Made Easy Selling is pretty straightforward. Clean out your wardrobe, prep your clothing according to the rules, and when you’re ready, WhatsApp the organiser. No lengthy applications or stall fees. Just you, your fashion taste, and a small pile of sorted-out regrets from shopping sprees past. This market is about community, circular fashion, and giving good clothes a second life. Whether you’re buying, selling, or just curious, pull in, have a browse, and maybe walk away with something that feels new (without costing new). No sales pitch, no frills, just lekker clothes, decent prices, and people who love a good find. Thrifty One Market Info Recap: Date: Saturday, 7 June 2025 Time: 09:00–13:00 Location: 6 Meyer Street, Die Bult, Potchefstroom Contact: WhatsApp: 082 382 4360 Email: marici.verster@gmail.com Facebook: Thrifty One See you there, just maybe leave the Shein at home.

A free-entry local bazaar with food, crafts and friendly vibes? Sign us up. Residents of Klerksdorp and surrounding areas are invited to take a breather from the usual Saturday routine and swing by the Magic Bazaar at Elandshaven Retirement Village on Saturday, 7 June 2025, from 10:00 to 14:00. Entry? Gratis. That’s right, free of charge, and no, it’s not a trap. What’s on the Menu (Besides Food) Expect the usual suspects at a well-rounded community market: Artisan crafts (for when you want to pretend you’re into handmade stuff) Baked goods and preserved treats (because Tupperware was made for jams and crunchies) Clothing (no pressure, but your wardrobe called and it's bored) Plenty of food and drink options to keep the hangry away The organisers also promise "much more", which we take to mean potential surprises, maybe a lucky draw, maybe a rogue vuvuzela, who knows? The Vibe The event will be hosted on the corner of Elandsheuwel and Van Tonder Streets, right at the heart of Elandshaven Retirement Village. It’s the kind of local gathering where you’re likely to bump into someone you went to school with or that cousin you owe R50. With bright colours, a cheeky duck near a "SALE" sign (don’t ask, just go see), and the good old community spirit, this looks like a laid-back, easygoing morning for families, friends, and curious wanderers. Event Details at a Glance Date: Saturday, 7 June 2025 Time: 10:00 to 14:00 Venue: Elandshaven Retirement Village, Van Tonder St, Elandsheuwel, Klerksdorp Entry Fee: Absolutely nothing Bring: Your friends, your family, and your sense of humour Contacts and Queries If you’re the type who needs confirmation before committing to free events, here are your contact options: Telephone: 018 406 0800 or WhatsApp 081 777 1914 No pressure, but if you’re sitting at home in your gown by noon next Saturday wondering what to do, this is where the action (and probably koeksisters) will be. Whether you're there for the crafts or just came for the eats, the Magic Bazaar at Elandshaven promises a good time with good people.

Over the past century, a Potchefstroom house has always been more than brick and mortar ,it’s where family gathers, comfort is found, and life’s milestones happen. A home  combines physical features (walls, roof, yard) with emotional bonds (family, memories, community). Image : The Go-To Guy Creations In Potchefstroom today, most middle‐class homeowners emphasize interior comfort and family space. A recent study found North-West families prize a well-appointed kitchen and multiple bedrooms/bathrooms  above all . The same study notes that owning property still “gives a sense of security and belonging” to homeowners . In other words, a modern Potchefstroom home must feel safe and welcoming indoors – a cozy living room or dining space where children play, and parents relax – as much as it looks good on the outside. Early to Mid-20th Century: Simple, Functional Homes In the 1920s–1950s, Potchefstroom was a quiet agricultural town. Middle-class homes were generally simple and sturdy . Many were single-story brick or wood-and-iron cottages with gabled roofs and small front or back verandas. Ceilings tended to be high to stay cool in summer, and families often grew their own vegetables in modest gardens. After World War II, plastered brick houses with tiled roofs became common. These homes had separate rooms (closed-plan) , a formal lounge for visitors, a kitchen in the back, and bedrooms down a hallway. Builders used local materials; early Potchefstroom examples (even older Victorian-era townhouses) mixed “locally used materials”  into their design . Although not lavish, these homes had “character”,wooden floors, plaster moldings, and often a built-in braai (barbecue) outside. Life in these decades was family-centered; the house was a workhorse that provided warmth in winter (hearth or paraffin stove) and shade in summer. Late 20th Century: Leisure and Lifestyle Features By the 1970s–90s, South Africa’s growing middle class began adding leisure and lifestyle features  to suburban homes. In Potchefstroom, backyards with swimming pools and wooden decks became aspirational. These features signaled comfort: a shaded deck for Sunday braais, a pool for children to splash in hot summers, a cozy wood-fired or built-in jacuzzi spa on the patio. Homes also started to open up: sliding doors from kitchen to patio, and skylights to bring in light. Home security (walls, alarms) became more common in later decades. New materials like treated pine decking and aluminum window frames appeared. Gardens, once for vegetables, evolved into manicured lawns or small decorative beds, since big gardens need lots of water (especially in our warm-temperate   climate .Despite these luxuries, practical space remained paramount. Image : The Go-To Guy Creations Even in the 2000s, Potchefstroom buyers valued functional space over indulgence . A home might have a pool, but people still expected at least 3–4 bedrooms, multiple bathrooms, and a spacious kitchen. Double garages became standard as car ownership rose. Porch or lapa areas (thatched or wood-roofed outdoor rooms) were popular for entertaining.  By the 2010s, many middle-class homes featured outdoor living spaces  integrated with the interior – for example, a wooden deck abutting the lounge or dining room. This trend reflects our lifestyle: Potchefstroom families love outdoorsy meals and play. Today’s homes might still include decks or verandas (wood underfoot, built-in bench seating) where kids color or families sip rooibos tea. Yet a 2016 survey of Potchefstroom buyers confirms these “luxury” items (like pools or decks) are the least  priority , illustrating that at its core, home is about people, not just stuff. Image : The Go-To Guy Creations The Modern Potchefstroom Home In recent years, local houses have blended international design with local needs. We see many single- and double-story homes with open-plan  living , a big kitchen flowing into a lounge and dining area, often facing north or east to catch sunlight. Large windows and skylights are common to brighten rooms, while eaves and shade trees keep interiors cool in summer. Roofing choices (dark tiles, sometimes solar-absorbing paint) and insulation reflect awareness of our summer rains and winter chills . Energy and sustainability have entered the picture: solar water-heaters on roofs (the ubiquitous orange cylinders), and increasingly, solar PV panels to power appliances during load-shedding. Rainwater tanks for gardens appear in newer estates. Home layouts now often include a dedicated home office or multi-purpose room , reflecting a shift in work and lifestyle. High-speed internet wiring, backup generators, and security features (electric fences, cameras) are almost expected. In short, middle-class Potchefstroom homes today are practical “smart” houses for family life,designed for comfort, entertainment (media rooms, braai zones), and resilient living in our climate. Image : The Go-To Guy Creations Looking Ahead: Sustainable, Smart, Adaptive What will Potchefstroom homes look like in the next decades? We can expect that sustainability and technology will shape them. Given our hot summers and dry winters , future houses will likely have green design , thicker insulation, reflective roofs, green spaces or courtyards to moderate heat, and rainwater harvesting for drought resilience. Solar panels and battery storage will probably become standard rather than optional. Water-wise gardens (succulents, native shrubs) may replace thirsty lawns. Smart home technology is on the rise: app-controlled lighting, security systems, and even smart appliances in kitchens. As remote work  becomes entrenched, homes will need quiet study spaces or offices. Nationwide, buyers now look for homes “with flexible floor plans, good internet infrastructure, and quiet, private spaces for work”. This is true in Potchefstroom too, a spare bedroom or garden outbuilding might convert to an office.Lifestyle changes will also influence design. Younger families may favor smaller, efficient footprints (townhouses or cluster homes with shared amenities) to free up time for travel or leisure. However, the ideal of a standalone family home,a safe place to raise kids and connect with neighbors,still holds strong here. In the future, a Potchefstroom “home” will balance high-tech convenience with warm hospitality: wide verandas for weekend braais, living rooms that open onto gardens or parks, and enough space for multi-generational living. Climate adaptation features like solar water-heaters and shaded courtyards will merge with smart comforts like automated lighting and energy monitoring. Through all these changes, the essence of home remains the same for Potchefstroom families: it’s where one feels belonging and security . From the early 20th-century brick cottage to the 21st-century smart house, that enduring mix of family  and shelter  guides how we build and cherish our homes.

🔐🕵️‍♂️🗺️🔍🧩🔐🕵️‍♂️🗺️🔍🧩🔐🕵️‍♂️🗺️🔍🧩 Potchefstroom may be famed for its university and rich history, but it also hides a thrilling new secret: escape rooms. These interactive adventures lock you and your team in a themed room filled with puzzles, clues, and mysteries to solve before time runs out. The concept combines the suspense of a mystery novel with the adrenaline rush of a timed challenge , all set against the backdrop of this charming South African town. Your heart will pound and your mind will race in equal measure as you work together to beat the clock and escape in time. Image: The Go-To Guy The Thrill of the Challenge Escape rooms tap into our innate love for exploration and problem-solving . There’s something electrifying about stepping into a real-life game where you must crack codes and unravel a mystery with your friends or family by your side. A ticking clock in the corner pushes your adrenaline higher with each passing minute, and every puzzle solved triggers a rush of triumph. Because these games are collaborative by nature, they turn a fun outing into a true bonding experience, a test of collective wits and teamwork that leaves everyone feeling like heroes. A World of Themes to Explore Potchefstroom’s escape rooms offer high-seas adventures and other thrilling scenarios that make you feel like the hero of your own story. Ever wanted to sail the high seas or explore an ancient jungle? Potchefstroom’s escape rooms make it possible. One scenario might strand your team aboard a haunted pirate ship in the midst of a storm, while the next plunges you into a dense jungle full of hidden relics and clever clues. For those who crave a scare, there may even be a spine-tingling challenge set in a vampire’s castle by moonlight. Each room’s theme comes with its own storyline and atmosphere, pulling you into a different world the moment the door closes and the game begins. And no matter the theme, you can expect ingenious hands-on puzzles at every turn, forget simple padlocks, many challenges here use high-tech automated  mechanisms to keep you guessing  and the excitement levels high. Not all escape rooms are scary, some themes are fantastical and family-friendly, immersing players in magical or storybook worlds. Not every adventure is about frights and danger; some rooms are downright whimsical and magical. You might find yourself in a world of wonder straight out of a storybook, hosting a mad tea party or following a white rabbit into the looking-glass. In another escape scenario, you could become a junior wizard mixing potions in a mystical school of magic. These light-hearted themes are perfect for players young and old, showing that escape rooms can be just as enchanting as they are exciting. Variety is the name of the game, whether you prefer fantasy, mystery or high adventure, there’s an escape room experience in Potchefstroom to scratch that itch. Fun for Everyone from Kids to Companies One of the best parts of the escape room experience is how inclusive it is, just about anyone can join in the fun. Families with kids (around age 10 and up) can tackle the challenges together, turning an afternoon out into a memorable bonding experience. University students in Potchefstroom often flock to these games as an exciting alternative to the usual weekend hangouts, coming away with legendary stories of puzzles solved at the buzzer. Travelers visiting the city will also find escape rooms a refreshing break from traditional sightseeing, local guides note that even tourists with children won’t be disappointed by Potchefstroom’s mix of modern fun like escape rooms . No matter your age or background, everyone gets to play the hero in an escape room story. In fact, these games deliver thrills and goosebumps for all  as teams work together to unravel each mystery . For companies and organizations, escape rooms offer an unbeatable team-building exercise . Instead of trust falls or PowerPoint seminars, colleagues get to solve a themed crisis together, communicating under pressure and celebrating every “aha!” moment as a team. Working through an escape room encourages team members to pool their strengths and think creatively, all in a fun, low-stakes environment away from the office grind. It’s the kind of engaging challenge that breaks down barriers. In fact, a manager might find they need an intern’s obscure trivia knowledge to crack a code, or a usually quiet teammate might emerge as the group’s key problem-solver. Many local businesses have discovered that this collaborative adventure not only entertains employees but also translates into better camaraderie and morale back at work. The Allure of Potch’s Escape Rooms In the end, escape rooms have proven to be one of Potchefstroom’s most exciting attractions for good reason. They challenge the mind, foster teamwork, and drop you into immersive stories, leaving participants with a sense of achievement and a wealth of memories . Whether you’re a local or a visitor, this blend of fun and problem-solving is an experience you’ll be talking about long after the final puzzle is solved. So gather your family, friends, or co-workers and see for yourself why these escape rooms are the go-to adventure in Potchefstroom. For more information on planning your own escape room outing, check out The Go-To Guy’s Things to Do – Escape Rooms  guide, and get ready to unlock  your next great adventure! 🔐🕵️‍♂️🗺️🔍🧩🔐🕵️‍♂️🗺️🔍🧩🔐🕵️‍♂️🗺️🔍🧩 #Adventure # Escape Rooms #TheGo-ToGuy #Potchefstroom

Image: The Go-To Guy Creations With the 2026 local government elections  on the horizon, South Africa’s Municipal Demarcation Board (MDB)  has launched a public consultation process to review and possibly revise municipal ward boundaries  across the country. For residents of Potchefstroom , this represents a key opportunity to help shape how communities are represented at municipal level. Although the information was recently shared by Ward 25 councillor Bertus le Roux , this process affects every ward and every resident in Potchefstroom . Regardless of your location, your participation could influence decisions that impact voting districts, service delivery, and governance for years to come. Why Are Ward Boundaries Reviewed Before Elections? Ward boundaries aren’t fixed forever. They’re adjusted in response to: Population growth or migration Urban development Shifting administrative needs The MDB reviews ward configurations every five years to ensure fair, balanced, and effective representation . Without this process, some wards could become over-represented while others are left under-represented, undermining democracy at the local level. This year’s consultation period runs from 07 April to 30 June 2025 . That gives residents just under three months to make their voices heard before the MDB finalizes its decisions. How Can You Participate? Everyone is encouraged to take part in this public process. There are three ways to do so: Attend public consultation meetings  hosted by the MDB. Submit your written suggestions  via email to: registry@demarcation.org.za Access the consultation portal  for maps and tools at: https://arcg.is/1jC9nn1 The submission deadline is 30 June 2025 . No proposals will be accepted after this date, so it’s crucial to act soon. Whether you feel your current ward serves your community well or think adjustments are necessary to improve representation, this is your democratic right and responsibility, to give input. Why This Matters to All of Potchefstroom Ward boundary changes don’t just affect electoral logistics; they influence: Which councillor represents you Where and how you vote Resource allocation and local governance Although the reminder came from Ward 25 , every resident in all wards of Potchefstroom  has the same right to engage in the process. This is not about one ward, it’s about the entire municipality . Where to Get More Information For full details, visit the MDB website: www.demarcation.org.za You can also: Scan the QR code  on the official notice for quick access to the portal Call 012 342 2481 Or email: info@demarcation.org.za Maps, criteria, and supporting documents are all publicly available. Local Democracy Begins With Local Input Ward boundaries may seem like abstract lines on a map, but in truth, they help define how fairly and effectively residents are served . Whether you live in Central Town, Mooivallei, Ikageng, Baillie Park, or Dassierand, your input matters . Take a few minutes, review the options, and make your voice count. Met die plaaslike verkiesings van 2026  in sig, het die Munisipale Afbakeningsraad (MDB)  pas 'n openbare konsultasieproses begin om die bestaande munisipale wyksgrense  te herevalueer. Vir inwoners van Potchefstroom  is dit 'n unieke geleentheid om te help bepaal hoe gemeenskappe plaaslik verteenwoordig word. Alhoewel die inligting gedeel is deur Wyk 25 se raadslid Bertus le Roux , is hierdie proses van toepassing op alle wyke en inwoners van Potchefstroom . Ongeag waar jy woon, kan jou deelname ‘n direkte invloed hê op toekomstige verkiesings, dienslewering en plaaslike regering. Waarom Word Wyksgrense Hersien? Wyksgrense verander saam met die gemeenskappe wat hulle bedien. Faktore soos: Bevolkingsgroei Nuwe woongebiede Administratiewe aanpassings … beïnvloed hoe grense afgebaken moet word. Die MDB hersien elke vyf jaar die grense om gelyke verteenwoordiging  te verseker. Dit keer dat sekere wyke te veel of te min inwoners het per raadslid. Die konsultasieproses duur van 7 April tot 30 Junie 2025 , genoeg tyd vir gemeenskappe om hul sê te sê. Hoe Kan Jy Deelneem? Jy kan op een van drie maniere deelneem: Woon openbare vergaderings by  wat deur die MDB aangebied word. Stuur jou skriftelike voorstelle  na: registry@demarcation.org.za Gebruik die konsultasieportaal  by: https://arcg.is/1jC9nn1 Die sperdatum vir voorleggings is 30 Junie 2025 . Geen laat indienings sal aanvaar word nie. Of jy tevrede is met jou huidige wyk of dink verandering is nodig, hierdie is jou kans om plaaslike demokrasie te beïnvloed. Waarom Dit Vir Almal in Potchefstroom Belangrik Is Veranderinge in wyksgrense beïnvloed: Wie jou verteenwoordig Waar jy stem Hoe hulpbronne versprei word Hoewel die kennisgewing van Wyk 25  afkomstig is, is dit van toepassing op elke inwoner van Potchefstroom . Hierdie is nie 'n een- wyk saak nie, dit gaan oor die hele dorp en munisipaliteit. Meer Inligting Besoek die MDB se webwerf: www.demarcation.org.za Of: Skandeer die QR-kode  in die advertensie Skakel 012 342 2481 Stuur e-pos na info@demarcation.org.za Al die kaarte, kriteria en riglyne is aanlyn beskikbaar. Begin Plaaslike Demokrasie met Jou Inset Wyksgrense is nie net lyne op 'n kaart nie, hulle beïnvloed hoe effektief jy en jou bure verteenwoordig word. Of jy in Mooivallei of Ikageng woon, jou stem saak . Doen vandag jou deel. Sê jou sê. Bou saam aan ‘n regverdige toekoms. #TheGoToGuy #potchgazette #stroomstories #potchefstroom #WardBoundaries2025 #PublicConsultation #HaveYourSay #MDBSouthAfrica #LocalElections2026 #SêJouSê

🌱❄️💧✂️🌱❄️💧✂️🌱❄️💧✂️ Understanding Potchefstroom’s Winter Climate Potchefstroom, located in the North West province of South Africa, experiences a dry, frosty winter. Winters are cold, and very dry, with clear skies and minimal rainfall . Nighttime temperatures often drop below freezing, leading to early-morning frost on lawns and plants. (In fact, Potchefstroom can experience black frost , sub-zero temperatures without visible ice, which can be even more damaging to plant tissue .) This dry cold means gardens face two challenges: moisture stress (due to lack of rain) and frost damage on leaves and grass blades. Understanding these conditions is key to protecting your garden through winter. Image: The Go-To Guy Creations Protecting Your Lawn During Dry, Frosty Months A healthy lawn will tolerate winter stresses better. In South Africa’s interior, common lawn grasses are warm-season varieties like Kikuyu, Buffalo (St. Augustine), Bermuda (Cynodon), and LM Berea . These grasses thrive in summer but go semi-dormant in winter, often turning brown in frost-prone areas. For example, Kikuyu is drought-resistant but not frost-tolerant – in heavy frost it may brown off until spring . Image: The Go-To Guy Creations Buffalo grass and LM Berea are a bit more shade-tolerant and may hold color slightly better, but they too will go dormant in cold, dry conditions . To preserve your lawn’s health and ensure it bounces back in spring, follow these winter lawn care strategies: Adjust Mowing Practices: Stop regular mowing as winter cold sets in. In the last few weeks of autumn, raise your mower’s blade to leave the grass a bit longe r. Slightly taller grass (about 1–1.5 cm higher than usual) insulates the plant’s crown and roots from frost . Do not mow right before an expected frost, mowing creates fresh cuts (wounds) on grass blades that make them more susceptible to freezing damage . Essentially, let your lawn grow a little shaggy going into winter; this natural “blanket” will protect the growing points at the base of the grass. Once the first heavy frost hits, the mowing season is over . Watering Routine: Although winters are dry, avoid overwatering dormant grass. A deep watering once a week or less is usually sufficient to keep roots from completely drying out . Time your watering for the warmest part of the day (late morning to midday). This ensures that water soaks in before evening temperatures drop. Never water in the late afternoon or evening during winter, water remaining on the grass overnight can freeze on the leaves, exacerbating frost damage . However, before an especially hard frost, an exception can be made: giving the lawn a deep watering the night prior to a frost can actually help the soil retain warmth. As the water slowly evaporates, it releases a bit of heat, slightly raising the temperature around the grass blades . (This technique is similar to farmers irrigating before a freeze to protect crops.) If you try this, water the soil heavily but avoid wetting the grass leaves too much, and do it in early evening so moisture has time to soak in. The goal is to have warmer, moist soil overnight (moist soil holds heat better than dry soil), which can help prevent the grass’s cells from freezing . Frost Arrival – Do’s and Don’ts: On frosty mornings, stay off the lawn until it thaws. Walking on a frozen lawn can cause the brittle, ice-crusted grass blades to snap and shatter . This leads to unsightly brown footprints and weakens the turf. In particular, never drive vehicles on a frosted lawn . If your lawn is blanketed in white frost, you can lightly water or irrigate just before dawn to melt the frost faster . A light sprinkling at sunrise washes the ice off and can prevent those gray-brown patches that appear when frost is left to thaw slowly on the grass. Do not mow dormant or frosted grass, wait until spring when the grass resumes active growth . Mowing too early in winter can damage the turf and expose it to more cold. Instead, let the lawn be, patience will pay off with a better recovery later. Feeding and Soil Care: Encourage a healthy lawn going into winter by feeding in later autumn. An organic or slow-release fertilizer high in potassium and phosphorus (with moderate nitrogen) can help strengthen roots and improve cold hardiness . For example, a balanced fertilizer or one labeled for “winterizing” (in South Africa, something like 2:3:2 or similar ratio is often recommended ) can be applied in early winter. This builds up root reserves that will be used for spring regrowth. Also, consider topdressing with a thin layer of compost before winter, this adds insulation to the root zone and improves soil microbial activity over the dormant season . Dealing with Winter Lawn Pests/Weeds: Keep an eye out for invasive cool-season weeds like wintergrass (Poa annua) which can pop up in your lawn during winter . These can outcompete your grass while it’s dormant. Remove or treat them early (hand-pulling or using a selective herbicide safe for your lawn type) so they don’t take over bare patches. Also, if you had issues with lawn fungus in the past, consider an autumn application of lawn fungicide as a preventive measure (dry winter generally suppresses fungi, but cold-stressed grass is vulnerable to diseases in late winter/early spring). Finally, rake up excessive thatch or dead grass at the end of winter . A light raking in late winter removes dead material and allows sun and air to reach the soil, helping the lawn “wake up” come spring. Protecting Garden Plants from Frost and Drought Beyond the lawn, your garden’s trees, shrubs, and flowers need protection from both frost and the arid winter conditions. Common South African garden plants – from roses and citrus trees to tender tropical flowers, can suffer in Potchefstroom’s winter if not cared for. Use the following strategies to shield plants from cold nights and dry air: Mulching: Mulch is your winter best friend. Spread a layer of organic mulch (bark chips, straw, dry leaves, etc.) around the base of plants, covering the root zone. This helps in two ways: it insulates the soil against temperature swings and also retains moisture in the soil by reducing evaporation . In a dry winter, that’s crucial. Mulch keeps the soil a few degrees warmer and prevents it from freezing as quickly on very cold nights. Aim for about a 5–8 cm layer of mulch, but keep it a few centimeters away from woody stems to prevent rot. You can mulch flower beds, vegetable gardens, around shrubs, and even potted plants (add mulch on top of the potting soil). This will protect roots from frost and ensure they have some moisture to draw on. Watering Garden Plants: Just as with lawns, watering must be strategic. Most plants need far less water in winter than in summer. Water deeply but infrequently, perhaps once every 1–2 weeks depending on rainfall (which is usually low in Potchefstroom winters). Always water in mid-morning when soil and air temperatures are above freezing. This gives plants a drink to stay hydrated in the dry air, but also ensures foliage dries before nightfall. As a rule, avoid wetting leaves if frost is expected. Focus water at the root zone (use drip irrigation or a watering can at soil level) to prevent water sitting on leaves and freezing. One useful tip: give evergreen shrubs a good drink a day before a severe cold front arrives, well-hydrated plants withstand cold better than drought-stressed ones. The water in the soil will buffer root temperatures (similar to the lawn advice) and a hydrated plant cell is more elastic and less prone to freeze injury than a dehydrated cell. Covering and Frost Protection: Cover sensitive plants on very cold nights. Tender or young plants – for example, young citrus trees, bougainvillea, hibiscus, or succulents – will benefit from a protective cover when frost is forecast. Use breathable fabric like frost cloth (also called horticultural fleece) or even old bedsheets or burlap. The cover acts like a blanket, trapping warmth from the soil and blocking icy wind . Ensure the cover reaches the ground (to trap ground heat) and avoid plastic sheeting touching the foliage (plastic can cause condensation and freezing on the plant). Frost cloth is ideal because it’s lightweight, lets some light and air through, and prevents frost from settling on the plant’s surfaces . You can drape it over shrubs or use stakes to tent it over delicate plants at night; just remove or vent the covers in the daytime if it warms up. For low bedding plants or veggies, you can also use row covers or even upturned boxes/buckets overnight as mini greenhouses. In Potchefstroom’s typically clear winter nights, even a light cover can retain a few degrees of warmth. Wind Protection: Cold, dry winter wind can desiccate plants. If your garden is exposed, consider temporary windbreaks. For instance, wrap burlap around young tree trunks or group potted plants in a sheltered corner by a wall. Even surrounding a plant with a circle of straw bales or shade netting can cut wind chill. The idea is to reduce the direct exposure to freezing wind, which causes frost burn on leaves. Also, for very tender plants like certain succulents or tropicals, you might move them onto a porch or indoors at night if possible. Pruning in Winter: Many deciduous plants and fruit trees should be pruned during winter dormancy, but timing matters. In Potchefstroom’s cold climate, it’s best to wait until late winter (July or early August) for major pruning of roses, deciduous fruit trees, and shrubs . Pruning too early (in mid-winter) can stimulate new growth during a warm spell, only to have that tender growth killed by later frosts. By late July, the hardest frosts are usually past, and plants are still dormant, making it an ideal time to prune. Remove any dead or diseased wood first, then shape the plant. Roses, for example, are often “rigorously pruned back in late winter, late July to August, once the frost is gone” . If you live in a heavy frost area, waiting a bit later (early August) is wise to be safe . The same applies to grapevines and other deciduous ornamentals. However, do NOT prune frost-tender evergreens or subtropicals in winter, they might not be dormant and pruning will only make them more vulnerable. Wait until spring to trim those. One exception: you can lightly trim away foliage that has been blackened by frost on perennials once you’re sure that part is dead, but avoid heavy cutting. Often it’s best to leave frost-burnt leaves on a plant (like on agapanthus or cannas) through winter – they might look ugly, but they protect the lower parts of the plant. You can clean them up in early spring when new growth begins. Plant Selection and Placement: Over the long term, consider planting more winter-hardy species or positioning tender plants in microclimates. For example, plant frost-sensitive shrubs on the north or west side of your house (in the southern hemisphere, north-facing is warmer) where they get winter sun and some warmth from walls. Use hardy winter annuals (like pansies, violas, snapdragons, ornamental kale) to add color, these can survive light frost without issue. Many South African native plants (like aloes, wild rosemary, and proteas) are adapted to dry winters and can tolerate frost once established. By incorporating such plants, your winter garden will be lower-maintenance. Save the truly tropical plants for pots that you can move or areas you can easily cover when needed. Image: The Go-To Guy Creations Winter Garden Maintenance Tips Keeping your garden in good shape over Potchefstroom’s winter involves a few ongoing maintenance practices: Regular Cleanup: Remove fallen leaves, spent annuals, and debris from your lawn and beds. This not only keeps the garden tidy but also prevents pests from hiding and diseases from spreading on decaying material. However, do leave some mulch or leaf litter in flowerbeds as insulation (as mentioned above). Balance neatness with protective cover. Monitor Moisture: Even though it’s dry season, be careful not to overwater . Check soil moisture a few centimeters down; if it’s still damp, wait longer to water. Many plants can rot if their roots sit in cold, wet soil. Container plants especially need monitoring, they can dry out faster than ground soil, so give pots a drink periodically, but ensure excess water can drain out. Pest and Disease Checks: Cold slows most pests, but you might still find aphids on winter veggies or fungal issues on lawns if there’s an unexpected wet spell. Treat problems early. For instance, if you notice brown patch or mildew on lawn or plants, apply an appropriate remedy promptly because the plant is already stressed by cold. Also, winter is a good time to inspect deciduous trees/shrubs for scale insects or eggs (since leaves are off) and manually remove or treat them. Protecting Irrigation Systems: In regions with severe frost, consider insulating outdoor taps/pipes and draining garden hoses after use so they don’t freeze and burst. Potchefstroom’s freezes are typically light, but a prolonged cold snap could damage exposed irrigation lines. Simply turning off water to sprinklers and draining them in winter can prevent any issues. Composting: Continue adding garden waste to your compost, but note that cold temperatures slow decomposition. To keep your compost “cooking,” mix in a bit of nitrogen-rich material (manure or kitchen scraps) and keep it slightly moist. Turning the pile helps too. By spring, you’ll have a fresh batch of compost to revitalize your garden soil. Encouraging Spring Regrowth and Rejuvenation As winter winds down (around late August in Potchefstroom), it’s time to help your garden bounce back: Gradual Increase in Watering: When spring approaches, start watering a bit more frequently as temperatures rise and new growth appears. If spring rains come, adjust accordingly. The key is to keep new growth well-hydrated without waterlogging the soil. Spring Feeding: Lawns and plants benefit from a nutrient boost in early spring. Fertilize your lawn in early spring (September) with a balanced or slightly higher nitrogen fertilizer to promote green-up . For example, a formulation like 3:2:1 or a specialized spring lawn feed works well to kickstart leaf growth once the danger of frost passes. Similarly, feed roses and other shrubs after pruning with a general fertilizer or compost to support the flush of spring growth. Organic options (like compost tea or slow-release pellets) are gentler if there’s still a chance of late frost, since they won’t force a sudden growth spurt. Lawn Maintenance: Once the weather warms and the lawn starts growing, rake the lawn thoroughly to remove winter thatch (dead grass clippings, dried leaves). This allows light and air to reach the soil and helps new shoots come through cleanly . You can also aerate compacted areas of the lawn in spring, either with a garden fork or a mechanical aerator, to alleviate any compaction from winter foot traffic and improve root access to water and nutrients. Resume mowing when the grass is growing at least 3–4 cm tall. The first cut of spring should be a high cut (just trim the tips) to avoid stressing the new growth. Then you can gradually lower the mower height over subsequent mowings to your normal summer setting. Prune and Tidy Up: Finish any pruning of deciduous plants by early spring if you haven’t already. For plants that suffered frost damage, prune away dead tips or branches once you see new buds forming below. Many subtropical plants (e.g. hibiscus, lemon trees) might have some die-back on outer twigs, trim these to healthy wood in spring. Cut back winter-flowering perennials (like aloes or winter jasmine) after blooming to shape them. Divide overcrowded clumps of perennials (like daylilies or agapanthus) in early spring so they have the full growing season to re-establish. Re-seed or Patch Lawns (if needed): If certain lawn patches died or thinned out over winter, spring is the time to repair them. Loosen the soil in bare spots, mix in a bit of compost, and sow lawn seed (choose the same grass type seed if available, or an appropriate blend) during the early spring rains. Alternatively, for warm-season grasses like kikuyu or Bermuda, you can plant grass plugs or stolons once the soil warms. Keep the patched areas lightly watered until new grass establishes. Planting and Landscaping: Finally, take advantage of the mild early spring to plant new additions. Replace any plants that didn’t survive the winter with more cold-hardy varieties. Early spring is ideal for planting most trees, shrubs, and perennials in Potchefstroom, as the soil has moisture and plants can get established before the next heat of summer. Incorporate plenty of compost when planting to help sandy or dry soil retain water. Also, if you planned any landscape changes (new beds, new lawn sections), the rejuvenation period of spring is perfect for installing those so they’ll thrive in the coming growing season. By following these practices, Potchefstroom gardeners can successfully nurse their lawns and gardens through the harsh winter, minimizing damage from frost and drought. With a bit of care, mulching, careful watering, frost protection, and timely maintenance, your garden will emerge in spring ready to flourish. The reward will be a lush lawn and vibrant plants that quickly bounce back, making your spring garden all the more enjoyable. Supporting Local Solutions: Flotek North West For gardeners and homeowners in Potchefstroom seeking reliable irrigation and garden care solutions, Flotek North West  is a trusted local provider of quality water systems and components. Specializing in pipes, fittings, tanks, pumps, and irrigation equipment, Flotek supports both residential and agricultural needs throughout the region. Image: Flo-Tek Their products are ideal for establishing efficient watering systems that conserve water during the dry winter months while keeping your lawn and plants healthy. Whether you're setting up drip irrigation, maintaining borehole infrastructure, or simply upgrading garden hoses and accessories, Flotek North West offers expert advice and durable materials tailored to the North West climate. Partnering with a supplier like Flotek ensures your winter garden setup is both sustainable and built to last. 🌱❄️💧✂️🌱❄️💧✂️🌱❄️💧✂️ #WinterGardenCare #FrostProtection #MulchMatters #Potchefstroom #TheGotoguy

🔥🏉🔥🏉🔥🏉🔥🏉🔥🏉🔥🏉 Rugby fans, get ready, the 2025 FNB Classic Clash is coming to Potchefstroom, and it’s going to be anything but quiet! On Saturday, 31 May, it’s HTS Potchefstroom versus Potchefstroom High School for Boys, and this match is set to be one for the books. 💥 Image: Potchefstroom High School for Boys 📍 Where and When Venue : HTS Potchefstroom Date : Saturday, 31 May 2025 Kick-off : 09:00 Set the alarm, wear your school colours, bring the gees, and make sure you’re there from the first whistle! 🎉 💪 More Than Just Rugby The Classic Clash isn’t just another match. It’s about tradition, pride, and pure passion. It’s school vs school, player vs player, and heart vs heart. Whether you're an old boy, a current learner, a parent or just a proud Potch local, this is the kind of match you feel  in your bones. 🏆 What to Expect Hard, physical play Smart game plans Loud, passionate supporters Moments you’ll never forget This is one of those matches where heart matters as much as skill. It’s where legends are made. And let’s be honest, you don’t want to hear how good it was after the fact… you want to be there. 📣 Don’t Miss the Action! Back your team. Bring your voice. Be part of something special. This isn’t just another Saturday, it’s a Potch showdown. 🔥🏉🔥🏉🔥🏉🔥🏉🔥🏉🔥🏉 #ClassicClash2025 #PotchRugby #HTSvBoysHigh #PotchPride #SaturdayShowdown #RugbyLivesHere

☔ 🎨☔ 🎨☔ 🎨☔ 🎨☔ 🎨 There was colour, creativity, and a whole lot of excitement in the Grade 1 classrooms at Redwood Schools this week, as the little ones got stuck into a seasonal art activity, building their very own cardboard umbrellas! ☂️🖍️ Image: Redwood College Potchefstroom 🎨 Learning Through Play The activity gave our learners a hands-on way to explore shapes, colours, and patterns, while also tapping into their imagination. Each umbrella looked different: some bright and bold, others with soft tones and playful designs. And yes, a few had raindrops, sunshine and even lightning bolts drawn on them! 🌧️🌈⚡ Art might seem like just fun, but it’s also a chance to build fine motor skills, practice focus, and learn how to follow instructions, all while being creative. 😊 Rainy-Day Joy (Even Without the Rain) While the weather outside didn’t bring real rain, inside the classroom it was umbrellas galore, and the laughter, storytelling and pride in their work made it clear that this activity was a hit. The learners were eager to show off their creations to teachers, friends and parents alike. 💬 Why It Matters At Redwood College, we believe in learning through doing, and this umbrella project is a great example. It wasn’t just about cutting and gluing; it was about confidence, expression and fun.And let’s be honest… who wouldn’t smile at a row of colourful umbrellas made by six-year-olds?Well done to our teachers for guiding such a joyful project, and to our Grade 1 learners for putting their hearts into it! 💛 ☔ 🎨☔ 🎨☔ 🎨☔ 🎨☔ 🎨 #RedwoodSchools #RedwoodCollege #CreativeClassrooms #Grade1Magic #LearningIsFun #UmbrellaArt

The Silent Book Club Potchefstroom is trading bookmarks for bark parks in its latest initiative, a community-driven raffle aimed at raising funds for the beloved local dog haven, Fetch Bark Park. The campaign combines the love of literature with the joy of wagging tails, all wrapped up in a book box raffle that promises page-turners and pup perks. R20 a Ticket – Half for the Dogs, Half for the Books At just R20 per ticket, the fundraiser strikes a neat balance between canine causes and literary indulgence. For every ticket sold, R10 goes straight to supporting Fetch Bark Park, while the other R10 contributes to building an increasingly enticing book box prize. The format is simple: the more tickets sold, the better the bookish loot gets, and the bigger the donation to Fetch Bark Park. It's a literary snowball effect that benefits both readers and rovers. Grand Prize: Fantasy, Dragons and… Dog Park Access? Top prize up for grabs is the full hardcover set of Rebecca Yarros’s Empyrean series, yes, the one with the dragons, drama and sprayed edges for extra flair. But that’s not all. The winner also walks (or struts) away with six months of free membership to Fetch Bark Park. Not feeling particularly alpha-dog? Not to worry, second and third prize winners will each get a surprise bookish bundle plus three months’ membership to the park. And in case you’re more cat person than dog parent, the memberships are fully transferable, so you can always gift it to your mate with the overenthusiastic golden retriever. Raffle Draw: Mark Your Calendars The live raffle draw takes place on 28 June at the Silent Book Club Potchefstroom meet-up. Keen readers and curious newcomers alike are invited to attend and witness the ticket drama unfold. If you’re eyeing a stack of raffle entries, there’s no limit. Bookworms can buy as many tickets as their TBR guilt allows. The more entries, the higher your chances of scooping the loot, and boosting the donation pot for Fetch Bark Park. Get Involved To get your paws on tickets (and into the draw), simply DM Silent Book Club Potchefstroom . Details and updates are also available on their Facebook page. Partners in the Pack The raffle is run in collaboration with @smllbeginningsfairytaleendings, adding a sprinkle of local flair to an already tail-wag-worthy cause. In short? A good book, a good cause, and a shot at free dog park access. Not a bad way to spend R20. Just don’t forget to show up on 28 June, or have someone ready to fetch your prize.

Elke week plaas ons vyf werksaansoekers in die kollig wat hul vaardighede en ervaring beskikbaar stel via Die Go-To Guy se aanlyn Job Board. Hierdie week se groep sluit uiteenlopende talent in, van bemarking en administrasie tot laboratoriumwerk en landboubestuur. Hierdie individue is opsoek na nuwe loopbaangeleenthede en gereed om hul volgende professionele hoofstuk te begin. 1. Lita-Mari Botes – Laboratoriumadministrateur met Organisasietalent Lita-Mari is tans besig met 'n pos by Envirocare Laboratory waar sy ‘n indrukwekkende reeks administratiewe en kliëntgerigte take hanteer. Van die ontvangs van monsters en kommunikasie met kliënte, tot die bestuur van subkontrakte en die gebruik van stelsels soos Microsoft Office 365, LIMS en Sage – sy is 'n sistematiese en betroubare werknemer. Haar verantwoordelikhede sluit ook vergaderingsbeplanning, dokumentasie-oplaai en voorraadopsporing in. Haar ervaring het haar goed toegerus om binne enige gestruktureerde omgewing te presteer. Sy is tweetalig in Afrikaans en Engels, rekenaarvaardig en besit 'n Kode 08 bestuurslisensie. Lita-Mari is 'n jong professionele met potensiaal wat gereed is om haar vaardighede ten volle in diens van 'n dinamiese span te stel. Kliek hier om die volledige CV te sien: https://www.thegotoguy.co.za/personal-profile/lita-mari-botes- 2. Braam Pretorius – Praktiese Voorman met Leierskap in Landbou en Vleishantering Braam bring jare se praktiese ervaring as voorman en junior bestuurder in die landbou- en voedselbedryf. By Chubby Chick het hy 'n span van 32 werknemers bestuur, die welsyn van vee verseker, en rekordhouding en tydsbestuur toegepas. Hy is trots daarop om elke taak tot voltooiing te sien, ongeag tydsdruk, en het 'n sterk sin vir verantwoordelikheid en integriteit. Voorheen het Braam op ’n plaas gewerk waar hy met alles van elektriese bedrading en CCTV tot pompstelsels en herstelwerk gewerk het. Hy is vaardig in sweiswerk, loodgieterswerk, bakstene lê en gesondheids- en veiligheidsregulasies. Braam is ’n leiersfiguur wat floreer in hande-vat-omgewings en 'n aanwins sal wees vir enige produksie-, plaas- of tegniese span. Kliek hier om die volledige CV te sien: https://www.thegotoguy.co.za/personal-profile/braam-pretorius 3. Chante Lombard – Veelvlakkige Admin & HR-kandidaat met Bemarkingsvaardighede Chante is ’n energieke en veelsydige individu met ondervinding in HR-werwing, administrasie, verkope, kleuterskoolonderrig en selfs skryfwerk. By Lakshmi Global het sy as verkoopsbestuurder gewerk en personeel gewerf, terwyl sy by Hybrid Lynx vir ses jaar ‘n sleutelrol in HR-administrasie vervul het. Haar vermoë om take gelyktydig te hanteer en tussen rolle te wissel maak haar besonder aanpasbaar. Sy beskik oor vaardigheid in sagteware soos Microsoft Office, Airtable, Gemini en Pastel. Haar kreatiewe ingesteldheid en kliëntgefokusde houding stel haar in staat om waarde toe te voeg in enige administratiewe of bemarkingspos. Chante is tweetalig, ’n vinnige leerder, en gretig om haar loopbaan na die volgende vlak te neem. Kliek hier om die volledige CV te sien: https://www.thegotoguy.co.za/personal-profile/chante-lombard 4. Danel Meyer – Versekerings-onderwriter met ’n Admin-agtergrond Danel het die afgelope vyf jaar as 'n persoonlike versekering-"underwriter" by Ashanti MBS gewerk, waar sy polisadministrasie, kliënte-interaksie, en algemene administrasie hanteer het. Voorheen het sy administratiewe poste by King’s Kids en Vulcan Electrical vervul, waar sy met rekeninge, ontvangs en fakturering gewerk het. Met opleiding in Pastel-rekeningkunde en kennis van stelsels soos Tial en Microsoft Excel, bring sy 'n kombinasie van presisie en kliëntediens na die tafel. Sy beskik oor 'n C1 bestuurslisensie, werk uitstekend onder druk, en beskryf haarself as betroubaar met sober gewoontes. Danel is gereed vir ’n rol waar haar ervaring en professionele ingesteldheid ten volle benut kan word. Kliek hier om die volledige CV te sien: https://www.thegotoguy.co.za/personal-profile/danel-meyer 5. Hannle – Bemarkingsgegradueerde met Kreatiewe Inhoudsvaardighede Hannle is ’n finalejaarstudent aan Noordwes-Universiteit wat in Junie 2025 haar BCom-graad in Bestuurswetenskappe met Bemarkingsbestuur sal voltooi. Sy het reeds praktiese ervaring as sosiale media bestuurder by 'n plaaslike kwekery opgedoen, waar sy strategieë geskep, inhoud ontwikkel en aanlyn betrokkenheid verbeter het. Sy het ook as deel van PUKFM se bemarkingspan en as assistent-fotograaf by Johanette Photography gewerk, wat haar ’n wye spektrum van kreatiewe en tegniese vaardighede gegee het. Hannle beskik oor uitstekende kommunikasievaardighede, is tegnologies vaardig, en bring 'n vars, strategiese perspektief op handelsmerkbou en aanlyn inhoud. Sy is beskikbaar vanaf 1 Julie 2025. Kliek hier om die volledige CV te sien: https://www.thegotoguy.co.za/personal-profile/hannle- 🧡 Gee Potchefstroom se Talent ’n Kans Of jy nou ’n klein besigheid, werwer, of plaaslike entrepreneur is, dié CV’s wys werklik hoe veelsydig en talentvol werksoekers in ons streek is. Elke kandidaat is gereed om hul vaardighede in diens van ’n span of besigheid te stel. Kontak ons of klik deur na hul volledige CV’s om ’n geskikte pasmaat vir jou werksomgewing te vind. Volgende week bring ons nog vyf kandidate in ons Engelse uitgawe van die Job Board-artikel. Jou Toegang tot Plaaslike Talent Hierdie vyf profiele weerspieël die krag en diversiteit van werksoekers in ons streek , individue wat gereed is om by te dra, aan te pas en saam met jou organisasie te groei. As jy tans aanstel of iemand ken wat dit doen, maak seker om hul volledige en ander CV’s te besigtig en ondersteun plaaslike talent. Om hierdie CV’s en meer te sien, kliek hier: https://www.thegotoguy.co.za/personal-profile Adverteer Oop Poste As jy ’n oop posisie het, stuur vir ons die besonderhede en ons sal dit gratis op ons Job Board plaas of hulle dit direk self op. Dit is ’n gemeenskapsdiens sonder enige koste. 📩 Kontak-e-pos:   karen@thegotoguy.co.za Vrywaring Die CV-inligting wat op ons Job Board verskyn, word deur werksoekers self ingedien. Alhoewel ons poog om akkurate en onlangse data aan te bied, bly dit die verantwoordelikheid van werkgewers om deeglike agtergrondondersoeke te doen tydens die werwingsproses. Ons beveel sterk aan dat alle voornemende werkgewers die besonderhede in CV’s verifieer voordat enige aanstellingsbesluite geneem word. #TheGoToGuy #potchefstroom #potchgazette #CVprofiele #JobBoard #stroomstories

🏆 🏆🏆 🏆🏆 🏆🏆 🏆🏆 🏆 Saturday, 24 May 2025 was a proud day for Saints soccer, as our u/19 girls’ team walked away with gold at the SACSSA tournament,, for the third year in a row! 💪⚽ Image: Saints Christian School Potchefstroom ⚔️ An All-Saints Final – With a Twist In a rare and exciting turn, it was Saints vs Saints in the final, the B-team taking on the A-team in a tense and gripping clash. Both sides gave it their all, but it was Tshwanelo Mathang who sealed the deal for the B-team, scoring the winning goal in extra time. 🙌🔥Talk about depth in talent, when your two school teams are battling it out for top honours, you know something’s being done right! Image: Saints Christian School Potchefstroom 👦 The u/15 Boys Show Grit Let’s not forget our u/15 boys’ team, who also made us proud. They only conceded one goal the entire tournament, a testament to their solid defence and fighting spirit. Though they just missed out on a podium finish after a tight 3–1 penalty loss, they still claimed 4th place overall, a huge achievement in a highly competitive field. 💙⚽ 🙌 A True Team Effort Big ups to Coach Dikeledi, the coaching team, and every player involved. The SACSSA results speak for themselves, Saints soccer is strong, deep, and determined to keep growing. Here’s to more goals, more growth, and more gold in the future. 💥 🏆 🏆🏆 🏆🏆 🏆🏆 🏆🏆 🏆 #SaintsSoccer #Champions #SACSSA2025 #ProudlySaints #GirlsInSport #NextGenStars

Potchefstroom is no stranger to rich sporting traditions, and among its crown jewels stands the Potchefstroom Dorp Rugbyklub, a team not only forged in local pride but one that has weathered decades of political change, war-time disruption, and evolving game dynamics. Digging through the archives, one uncovers far more than scores and trophies. What emerges is a story of exceptional commitment, rugged camaraderie, and a town’s undying passion for rugby. The Golden Fifties: The Johan Claassen Era Source: Page 43 The 1950s marked a turning point for Potch-Dorp Rugbyklub with the emergence of names that would become etched in rugby folklore. A standout was Johan Claassen, who first donned the Dorp jersey in 1953. By 1954, he captained the side. Claassen would later lead the Springboks and leave an indelible legacy on both national and local levels. Players like Mynie de Beer, Harry Newton Walker, and Wouter de Vos filled the squad with experience and flair, as did notable Wes-Transvaal stalwarts like Pan Coetzee and Jannie Marais. Team photos from that time show rows of determined men, local teachers, businessmen, and students, wearing striped blazers and solid stares. The community spirit was palpable. Club presidents like Piet de Wet, secretaries like Jannie Marais (who served for 23 years), and many others provided the backbone off the field, steering the club through what would become its most iconic decades. Image: Potchefstroom Dorp Rugbyklub The Boepie van Rensburg Years and the Spirit of Commitment Source: Page 45 Boepie van Rensburg, affectionately remembered by teammates and townsfolk alike, played 17 years for Potch-Dorp without missing a single season. Starting in 1948 and continuing into the early 1960s, Boepie’s rugby journey mirrored that of the post-war era, tough, gritty, and built on loyalty. Known for his versatility on the field, he played nearly every backline position, and off the field, he embodied everything the club stood for: integrity, perseverance, and humility. In 1956, with Willie van der Merwe as captain, the Dorp side won the prestigious Piet Bosman Trophy for constructive rugby. That team, filled with workhorses like Slazus, Erasmus, and Lindeque, played with flair and fierce discipline, ensuring Potch-Dorp was never an easy fixture for any opponent. Image: Potchefstroom Dorp Rugbyklub Unsung Heroes: Teachers, Soldiers, and Stitchers of Tapestry Source: Page 46 It wasn’t just Springbok hopefuls that built the club’s legacy. Take Theuns Kuhn, a forward who played nearly 100 matches for Dorp and 71 for Wes-Transvaal. A schoolteacher by profession, his passion extended beyond the pitch, his hobby of stitching tapestries for his wife and daughters became legendary in local circles. Kuhn's story reminds us that community clubs like Dorp were built on the backs of everyday men with extraordinary spirit. Similarly, Simon Bezuidenhout, who played until the age of 42, came from a generation for whom rugby wasn’t just a sport but a community anchor. Then there was Dirk Schoeman, who, despite work pressures, found time to represent the club and Wes-Transvaal during 1950–51. His reflection that players once made greater sacrifices without complaints offers a poignant contrast to today’s semi-professional era. Image: Potchefstroom Dorp Rugbyklub Oom Piet Bosman: The Administrator Who Kept the Flame Alive Source: Page 47 Few figures embody the Dorp legacy like Piet “Oom Piet” Bosman. Starting as a player in 1931, his playing career was cut short by injury, but his influence had only begun. For 24 years, he served as president of the Wes-Transvaal Rugby Union and was instrumental in transforming local rugby into a structured, thriving ecosystem. During his early playing days, matches were held on a roughly leveled patch of Olyfpark, where the municipality's water cart, sometimes pulled by oxen, would dampen the dusty field. Training was done in cycling shoes, and post-practice showers were cold and communal. Yet none of this deterred players. Failing to make the team didn’t lead to sulking or dropout, it meant doubling down at training next week. Memories of Glory and Humble Beginnings Source: Page 47 Even during wartime, Potch-Dorp Rugbyklub thrived. A particularly memorable clash occurred during WWII when Dorp bested the national military team, led by none other than former Springbok captain Basil Kenyon. It was a defining moment of pride, though helped along, it’s said, by a few controversial referee decisions. Legends like Gert “Krekeins” van Niekerk, denied a Springbok cap only because Boy Louw could play both prop and hooker, still live on in the stories told from clubhouse barstools. Similarly, Tien Pieters, who paired with Krekeins in the front row, exemplified what it meant to serve one’s club and province. By the 1970s, the team moved away from Olyfpark. The facilities were sparse, but the spirit remained. Eventually, the old PUK rugby fields became home, and by 1980, Dorp had a new clubhouse that stood as a symbol of the club’s resilience and growth. Image: Potchefstroom Dorp Rugbyklub A Club Steeped in Community Source: Pages 45–47 What stands out in the long and colorful history of Potchefstroom Dorp Rugbyklub is not just the matches played, but the memories made. From the supporters like Gert Vorster who followed the team with a delivery wagon, to players who became fathers, teachers, and mentors, this club is more than a team. It is a vessel of heritage, identity, and Potchefstroom pride. To understand Potchefstroom Dorp Rugbyklub is to understand a community’s heartbeat. Through every era, from the pioneering fifties, through wartime victories and into modern transformation, Dorp has remained constant. It’s not just a rugby club. It’s a living archive of brotherhood, discipline, and small-town resilience, with a legacy stitched tightly into the fabric of South African rugby history. #TheGoToGuy #potchefstroom #potchgazette #stroomstories #PotchDorpRugby #RugbyHeritage #LocalLegends

In the bustling automotive landscape, Penta Suzuki has launched a retro-themed campaign titled “Halfway Hits” , offering throwback vibes paired with serious modern value. This series of vibrant adverts takes us back to classic road trip dreams while firmly keeping drivers in the present with top-tier features, free add-ons, and tempting price points. From nimble hatchbacks to rugged off-roaders, the selection speaks to a variety of lifestyles and budgets. Here’s a comprehensive look at each vehicle showcased in this nostalgic campaign: Suzuki Jimny 5-Door (Demo Model) With its boxy charm and off-road DNA, the demo model Jimny GL 5DR in red is an adventurer’s dream. Free Extras:  Bonnet guard, nudge bar, window bubbles, smash & grab, lock-on-motion Key Specs: Engine:  1.5L petrol Transmission:  Manual Fuel Consumption:  ±6.4 L/100km Drive:  Part-time 4WD with low range Safety:  Dual airbags, ABS, hill hold assist Only one unit left! Suzuki Celerio Urban-friendly and wallet-wise, the Celerio is perfect for the everyday commuter. New Additions:  4-year/60,000 km service plan, 6 airbags Key Specs: Engine:  1.0L 3-cylinder petrol Transmission:  Manual or Auto Gear Shift (AMT) Fuel Consumption:  ±4.4 L/100km Boot Space:  313L Safety:  ABS, EBD, 6 airbags A top contender for first-time buyers. Suzuki Jimny 5-Door (New Sale) With more room and ruggedness, this 5-door Jimny is made for trails and towns alike. Free Extras:  Roof rack or towbar, smash & grab Key Specs: Engine:  1.5L petrol Transmission:  Manual or 4-speed Auto Fuel Consumption:  ±6.4–6.8 L/100km Drive:  4WD with low range Safety:  ABS, EBD, dual airbags, stability control More doors, more adventure.   Suzuki Swift Sporty lines meet smart safety in this ever-popular hatchback. Free Extras:  Smash & grab, lock-on-motion, 6 airbags Key Specs: Engine:  1.2L petrol Transmission:  Manual or AMT Fuel Consumption:  ±4.9 L/100km Boot Space:  268L Safety:  ABS, ESP, ISOFIX child seat anchors Fun to drive, safe to own. Suzuki Super Carry No-frills utility for entrepreneurs who need reliability over bells and whistles. Perk:  Free branding Key Specs: Engine:  1.2L petrol Transmission:  5-speed Manual Payload:  ±750kg Fuel Consumption:  ±5.9 L/100km Drive:  Rear-wheel drive Built for business on the move. Suzuki Baleno A refined hatch with a grown-up personality and added luxury. Bonus:  R5,000 cash back Key Specs: Engine:  1.5L petrol Transmission:  Manual or 4-speed Auto Fuel Consumption:  ±5.4 L/100km Boot Space:  314L Safety:  6 airbags, ABS, ESP, rear parking sensors Family-friendly, budget-smart. Suzuki Fronx Striking coupe-SUV lines meet the versatility of a city crossover. Free Extras:  Smash & grab, lock-on-motion Key Specs: Engine:  1.5L petrol Transmission:  Manual or 4-speed Auto Fuel Consumption:  ±5.5–5.7 L/100km Boot Space:  308L Safety:  ESP, 6 airbags, hill hold assist Stylish and safe with plenty of flair. Suzuki Dzire Elegant, economical, and engineered for everyday use with a touch of class. New Additions:  4-year/60,000 km service plan, 6 airbags Key Specs: Engine:  1.2L petrol Transmission:  Manual or AMT Fuel Consumption:  ±4.9 L/100km Boot Space:  378L Safety:  ABS, ESP, ISOFIX A sedan with substance and style. Suzuki S-Presso (GL+ M/T) Mini SUV styling with city hatchback convenience. Bonus:  R5,000 cash back or  1-year insurance Key Specs: Engine:  1.0L petrol Transmission:  Manual Fuel Consumption:  ±4.9 L/100km Boot Space:  239L Safety:  Dual airbags, ABS, rear parking sensors Fun-sized and feature-packed. From bold promos to genuinely useful extras, Penta Suzuki Potchefstroom’s Halfway Hits campaign is more than clever nostalgia, it’s a practical nod to drivers seeking affordability without compromise. Whether you’re shopping for your first car, upgrading your fleet, or plotting your next off-road adventure, these deals deliver the hits. But with limited stock on some models, don’t be surprised if this trip down memory lane speeds up fast. 📍 Location:  Penta Suzuki, 27 Nelson Mandela Dr, Potchefstroom 📞 Branch Contact:  018 000 5753 📝 Ts & Cs apply. FSP 51697 Let the deals take you back, but get there fast. #TheGoToGuy #potchefstroom #potchgazette #stroomstories #PentaSuzuki #HalfwayHits

Founded in the early 1980s, Patria Men’s Residence is home to 258 proud residents. Known for its traditions and values, Patria fosters a strong sense of brotherhood, academic excellence, and personal growth. Guided by the vision of creating self-controlled, stylish, and purpose-driven individuals, the residence provides its members with the tools to excel academically, socially, and spiritually. Image: NWU Patria Manskoshuis At Patria, the albatross emblem symbolizes the soaring aspirations of its residents. It is worn with pride, reflecting the unity and spirit of the brotherhood. Vision and Mission Vision Patria aspires to be: A residence of quality and character. Grounded in Biblical values and norms. A service-oriented community supporting the residents and NWU Potchefstroom. An environment of academic excellence and personal integrity. Mission Patria seeks to build an outstanding residence through actions aligned with these core principles: Loyalty and service to the residence and fellow residents. Active participation in positive and constructive activities. Respect for diversity and individual dignity. Developing each resident to their full potential for meaningful contributions in all areas of life. Dependence on God’s blessings for guidance and growth. Image: NWU Patria Manskoshuis Facilities Patria offers top-notch amenities to ensure residents thrive in all aspects of university life: Rooms Double rooms for first- and second-years, and single rooms for senior residents. Furnished with essentials: bed, desk, chair, closet, heater, and internet access. Common Areas Club Albatross:  The vibrant hub of social life, hosting man-of-the-match announcements, events, and socials. Equipped with pool tables, foosball, and darts, it’s a space that radiates spirit and tradition. The Square:  A social outdoor space with braai facilities and a grass pitch for recreational activities. Prayer Room:  A serene environment available 24/7 for spiritual reflection and Bible study. Music Room:  Equipped with instruments and trophies, providing a space for creative expression. Academic Support Computer lab with free internet access. Kitchens with boiling and cold water, stoves, and ample working space. Corridors Patria’s corridors each have unique identities and themes: Mol’s Hol (Scotland):  Known for their kilts and their unique version of the haka. Commancheros (Mexican):  A laid-back corridor with open-plan spaces for sports and socializing. Ophiuchus (Military):  A camouflage-themed corridor with a tradition of honoring the first-year of the year. Pastas (Farm):  The highest corridor, boasting a rustic charm with themed sections like Castle Corner and Koekie Hoekie. Image: NWU Patria Manskoshuis Achievements Patria continues to shine across all domains, particularly in sports: Men’s Sport Trophy Winners (2023/2024). First Place:  Basketball, Men’s Netball, Rugby (2nd team), Chess. Second Place:  Hockey, Cricket, Squash, Athletics (Men’s League). Third Place:  Rugby (1st team). These results reflect Patria’s dedication to fostering a competitive spirit, teamwork, and perseverance among its residents. Leadership Residence Management Under the guidance of House Parent Prof. Johan Botha and Residence Officer Brendon Jacobs, Patria is committed to creating a supportive and value-driven environment. The leadership team, including the House Committee, fosters a culture of respect, discipline, and brotherhood. Image: NWU Patria Manskoshuis Patria Men’s Residence offers a holistic university experience, blending academic support, social engagement, and spiritual growth. The residence’s emphasis on brotherhood and tradition creates a supportive environment where students can thrive, both individually and as part of a community. With its excellent facilities, vibrant culture, and strong values, Patria stands as a beacon of excellence and unity at NWU Potchefstroom. Facebook link for Patria Men’s Residence #TheGoToGuy   #potchefstroom   #potchgazette   #stroomstories   #accommdation

🍽️🍽️🍽️🍽️🍽️🍽️🍽️🍽️ Potchefstroom’s food scene has something for everyone. Whether you’re a student watching your wallet, a family looking for a spot to grab lunch, or just passing through town, there’s no shortage of places to eat. You’ll find everything from local favourites to flavours from around the world. And in true Potch style, the vibe is always friendly, the food is lekker, and there’s a “howzit” waiting at the door 😊. Let’s take a look at the kinds of places you can enjoy a meal around town. The Go-To Guy Creations Cosy Cafés There’s no better way to start your day (or take a study break) than at one of Potch’s cosy cafés . Scattered around town and near campus are coffee shops where baristas greet you by name and the aroma of freshly brewed coffee invites you in. Expect to find everything from velvety cappuccinos to classic moerkoffie in tin mugs. Many cafés double as brunch spots, think toasted sandwiches, muffins or a warm bowl of oats with a twist, perfect for that mid-morning hunger. The vibe is laid-back and welcoming. You’ll see locals catching up on the news, students typing away on assignments, and friends treating themselves to a slice of milk tart on a slow Saturday morning 😋. (Just picture a sun-lit Potchefstroom café with friends laughing over coffees, it’s that kind of vibe.) The character of Potchefstroom’s coffee scene ranges from trendy modern hangouts to more quirky spots. Don’t be surprised if one café is tucked inside a historical house or hidden under giant oak trees, Potch’s cafe corners have personality. They’re the kind of places where you can sip a rooibos tea or flat white for hours while watching the world go by. And in true local fashion, many offer Rusks or Koeksisters to dunk in your coffee, making you feel right at home. It’s all about good brew, good company, and taking life “just now”, the South African way of saying there’s no rush. Takeaways and Quick Bites 🍟 Life in Potchefstroom can get busy, especially for students and working folks, and that’s where takeaways and quick bites  come to the rescue. All around town, you’ll find no-frills takeaway spots ready to fill you up when you’re on the go  or just too tired to cook. From local fish-and-chips shops dishing out slap chips doused in vinegar, to street corner vendors grilling boerie (sausage) rolls , Potch has your fast-and-friendly food fixes sorted. Craving something more exotic on the fly? No problem – you can grab a spicy chicken peri-peri wrap or a hearty kota packed with chips and polony from a small stall if you know where to look. And of course, there are plenty of pizza and burger takeaways for those late-night study (or party) sessions – sometimes nothing hits the spot like a quick hawaiian slice or a cheesy burger at midnight 🍔. One awesome thing about Potch’s quick-bite scene is how it adapts to our uniquely South African challenges. Take loadshedding, for example, when the power’s out, one local pizzeria still keeps the ovens going, serving fresh, made-to-order pizza to keep everyone fed. (Talk about dedication! 🍕) And whether it’s a midweek “I don’t feel like cooking” takeaway or a post-braai slap tjips run, these eateries are affordable and convenient. Many are family-run, adding a personal touch, you might get called “my love” or “boet” when you place your order. It’s fast food with a side of local charm. So next time you’re rushing between classes or heading home from a night out, you know Potch’s takeaway spots have got your back, no fancy dress code required. Family Dining and Sit-Down Restaurants 🍽️ Looking for a place to take Ouma and Oupa for Sunday lunch, or a nice sit-down dinner with the whole family? Potchefstroom has plenty of family-friendly restaurants where everyone’s welcome. These sit-down eateries range from familiar chain restaurants to unique local diners, all offering a comfy atmosphere where kids can be kids and grown-ups can relax. In true Potch tradition, many of these spots serve dishes that feel like home. One beloved family restaurant in town, for instance, makes each dish with a touch of tradition and memories – you can practically taste the love in their oxtail stew or malva pudding. 🥘 It’s the kind of place where birthday songs break out spontaneously and where the staff might even remember your “usual” order. For parents, several restaurants come with the bonus of play areas or outdoor space, so the little ones can burn off energy while the adults savour a well-deserved meal. Think colorful jungle gyms in the garden or even a petting corner at some farm-style venues just outside town. And it’s not just about families – these sit-down spots are great for any occasion that calls for a relaxed meal at a real table (with actual cutlery 😄). If you’re planning a special date night or celebration, Potch also offers a touch of elegance. In addition to the casual family grills, there’s even an upmarket  restaurant known for its sophisticated ambiance , perfect for an anniversary dinner or when you feel like dressing up a bit. The service is friendly everywhere, whether you’re at a steakhouse sharing a giant platter or at a quiet bistro for two. With generous portions (nobody leaves hungry here) and genuine hospitality, Potchefstroom’s sit-down restaurants make you feel like part of the community. Pro tip: Don’t skip the dessert at these places, a warm malva pudding with custard or a classic peppermint crisp tart is the cherry on top of a great family meal. Global Flavours: Greek, Italian and More 🍝 One of the joys of Potchefstroom’s dining scene is how international it has become over the years. This might be a small city, but you can eat your way around the world without leaving town! Craving Mediterranean? We have a little Greek tavern-style spot where you can tuck into homemade moussaka and souvlaki that taste just like granny made . It’s a great alternative when you’re yearning for a home-cooked meal that isn’t your  home cooking 😉. In the mood for pasta or pizza? Potch boasts its own Italian eateries – from a family-run trattoria to a modern pizzeria – serving wood-fired pizzas, hearty lasagne, and creamy gelato for dessert. You might stumble upon an Italian restaurant tucked in a quiet street, complete with checkered tablecloths and the aroma of basil and tomato wafting out the door, making you feel like you’ve been transported to Tuscany for the evening. Our town’s global palate doesn’t stop there. Thanks to a diverse community (and hungry students adventurous with food), you can find Asian flavours too. In fact, Potchefstroom’s culinary scene recently got an Asian upgrade – a new spot in town offers a blend of Japanese, Korean, and Chinese delights at unbeatable prices. Sushi, ramen, Korean-style fried chicken – you name it, we can taste it here in Potch. There’s also a longstanding Chinese takeaway and sushi bar that’s been a favourite for quick fried rice, spring rolls, and California rolls to-go. Even our big family restaurants have caught on, don’t be surprised to see sushi or Thai sweet chili sauce on a menu next to boerewors and biltong. And let’s not forget other international bites: you can dig into spicy peri-peri prawns (a nod to Portuguese flavor), enjoy an American-style diner burger with a local twist, or savor an Indian curry if you search a bit. Potchefstroom truly brings the world to our plates, proving that you don’t need to be in a big city to enjoy global cuisine. Sweet Treats and Dessert Spots 🍨 No food adventure is complete without satisfying that sweet tooth, and Potchefstroom delivers here too. If you’re the type who scans the dessert menu first (we see you! 🙋‍♀️), you’ll be pleased with the dessert spots and treats around town. For an afternoon pick-me-up or a post-dinner indulgence, we have charming little cafés dedicated to desserts. One local gem specialises in decadent waffles, we’re talking waffles loaded with ice cream, syrup, fruits, and all manner of sweet toppings. It’s the kind of place where just seeing the menu can give you a sugar rush. You’ll find families sharing a giant waffle sundae and students snapping Instagram pics of their over-the-top milkshakes topped with whipped cream and candy. Speaking of milkshakes, Potch even has a retro diner-style eatery known for its old-school milkshakes, hearty meals, and great atmosphere . Pop in there and you can slurp a towering chocolate malt while sitting in a vintage booth, a fun throwback and a hit with the kids (and the nostalgic parents!). Beyond dedicated dessert cafes, many restaurants in town make homemade puddings that are worth a mention. Classics like malva pudding with warm custard, melktert (milk tart), or koeksisters often pop up as the finale of a good meal. During summer, you can cool off with a scoop (or three) of gelato or creamy soft serve ice cream from a local ice cream parlour – perfect after a hot day at the dam or sports field. And let’s not forget the “sweetie pies” at the Saturday farmers’ market: local home bakers sell fudge, brownies, and cupcakes that disappear almost as soon as they’re put on the table. The variety of sweet treats in Potchefstroom ensures that whether you’re celebrating a special occasion or just treating yourself on a Tuesday, you can find something to hit the spot. Just be warned: once you taste a real homemade milk tart here, every other dessert will feel a little jealous! 😅 Casual Eateries and Student Favourites 🍔 With a big student population from North-West University, Potchefstroom naturally has a lot of casual eateries that cater to young (and young-at-heart) crowds. These are the unfussy, come-as-you-are spots that are perfect for a quick lunch between lectures or a chilled dinner with mates in shorts and flip-flops. Along the famous Bult area near campus, you’ll find a string of these casual hangouts. Think burger joints, pizza places, shawarma stands, and humble cafes where the daily specials are kind to your wallet. There’s one burger spot with a rock ’n roll vibe that has practically become a trendsetter in casual dining , their unique burger creations and funky atmosphere have people lining up out the door. 🍔 And for the pizza lovers, Potch offers both classic pizzerias and quirky new spots, rumor has it one place even lets you design your own crazy pizza toppings, making it a favourite during late-night study breaks. What’s great about these casual eateries is the sense of community. Don’t be surprised if you bump into half your class or your neighbours when grabbing a bite. Many of these places host weekly specials like “two-for-one” burger nights or half-price pizza Wednesdays, which basically turn into mini social events. And if you’re keen on live music, some casual spots double as venues for local bands on certain nights, cheap dinner and  a show, what a win! For something different, Potch also has a few food trucks and market stalls that show up on weekends or events. At the monthly open-air market, for instance, you can munch on a boerewors roll  or artisanal mini-donuts while strolling between craft stands, soaking up that friendly vibe. Casual doesn’t mean boring either: one cool hangout in town is a one-stop shop for takeaways, coffee, sugary treats, pizzas, and burgers , a bit of everything under one roof, perfect when your friend group can’t decide on one place. In Potchefstroom, these easygoing eateries make sure a good meal is never far away, and you don’t need a special occasion to enjoy it. Just pull in with your friends, share a big platter of nachos or a bucket of fried chicken, and make yourself at home. Your Potch Food Adventure Awaits! 🎉 At the end of the day, eating out in Potchefstroom is more than just grabbing a meal, it’s about the community and experiences that come with it. This town may be known for academia and sports, but its food scene is the heart  that brings everyone together, from first-year students to longtime locals. Every café catch-up, pub trivia night, family dinner, and late-night takeaway run adds to the tapestry of Potch’s vibrant dining culture. So why not step out and explore it? Go on, become a tourist in your own town, try that new cuisine you haven’t had before, or visit that quaint eatery you always drive past. You might discover a new favourite dish or make a new friend at the next table. Now it’s your turn:  the next time you’re wondering where to eat, remember all the delicious options our little city has to offer. Grab a buddy or the whole family and go taste Potchefstroom! And if you’ve already been out and about sampling what’s on offer, let’s keep the conversation going, share your foodie experiences or your favourite Potch eating spots with your mates. After all, good food is meant to be shared, and in Potchefstroom, there’s plenty to go around. Happy dining, and bon appétit! 😁🍴 Looking for places to eat? Visit: 🍽️🍽️🍽️🍽️🍽️🍽️🍽️🍽️ #PotchefstroomEats #PotchFoodScene #LocalIsLekker #ExplorePotch #PotchDining

Some rules are so simple, they should be second nature, like stopping at a stop sign, obeying a red light, or yielding at a traffic circle. Yet on any given day, you'll see drivers rolling through stop streets, racing the amber light, or barging into roundabouts as if they're the only ones on the road. Image: The Go-To Guy Creations These might seem like minor lapses in judgment, but they come with serious consequences. Intersections are where most traffic conflicts occur. A missed stop or skipped red light doesn’t just break the rules, it breaks the flow of safety that keeps everyone on the road in one piece. Let’s take a closer look at why intersection rules matter, and what happens when we ignore them. The Stop Sign Standoff Stop signs are among the most widely ignored road signs. Instead of stopping fully, many drivers slow down just enough to check if the coast is clear and then cruise on through. It’s a habit born from convenience, but it’s also one of the most common traffic violations, and for good reason. A stop sign isn't a suggestion. It’s a signal that every driver must come to a complete  stop, even if there seems to be no other traffic. The logic is simple: visibility can be limited, pedestrians may be crossing, and other vehicles might appear suddenly. By stopping properly, you give yourself the chance to look, listen, and proceed safely. Failure to stop at these signs is one of the leading causes of side-impact collisions at four-way intersections. These crashes are often severe, especially when they involve a smaller vehicle or a vulnerable road user like a cyclist or pedestrian. Image: The Go-To Guy Creations The Red Light Gambit Everyone’s been tempted: the light turns amber, and instead of slowing down, the instinct is to speed up and beat the red. The problem? So many others are doing the same. Running red lights is more than just illegal, it's dangerous. Intersections governed by traffic signals are high-risk zones, especially when timing is ignored. One driver pushing through the red while another begins to accelerate on green is a recipe for disaster, often resulting in T-bone collisions that can be deadly. While some justify red-light running as “safe if careful,” the reality is that this kind of behavior contributes significantly to urban crashes. And even if you're lucky enough to avoid a collision, traffic cameras or police officers may still catch the violation and the resulting fine can hit hard. The best practice? Treat amber as a warning, not an invitation. If you can safely stop, do so. Arriving a few minutes later is always better than not arriving at all. Image: The Go-To Guy Creations The Roundabout Confusion Roundabouts (or traffic circles) are designed to improve traffic flow and reduce collisions, but only when drivers understand how they work. The key rule is straightforward: yield to traffic coming from the right  and already in the circle. Sounds simple enough, yet confusion or impatience leads many to either stop unnecessarily in the circle (disrupting flow) or charge in without yielding (causing near misses and accidents). In some areas, mini-circles have replaced stop streets in residential zones. These still follow the same rule: yield to the right, and if you’re not sure who arrived first, err on the side of caution. Poor circle etiquette often turns these intersections into chaos. Drivers who don’t yield force others to brake suddenly or swerve and it only takes one moment of misjudgment to cause a crash. Image: The Go-To Guy Creations Why It All Adds Up While each of these behaviors, rolling stops, skipping reds, misusing circles, may seem small on their own, they add up to a major safety problem. Human error is behind the vast majority of road crashes, and many of these errors happen at intersections where clear rules are being ignored. Crashes at these spots tend to be more serious than rear-end bumps or parking scrapes. They happen at speed, from awkward angles, and often involve side impacts that vehicles aren’t well protected against. Pedestrians and cyclists are especially at risk. Beyond the safety concerns, there’s also the cost. Fines for running red lights or stop signs are steep, often in the hundreds or even thousands. If you rack up multiple offences, you may also face licence points or other penalties depending on how traffic enforcement is handled. Responsible Driving Isn’t Optional Obeying the rules of the road isn’t about ticking boxes or avoiding fines. It’s about respecting the shared space we all use daily. When each person does their part, stopping fully, yielding correctly, and approaching intersections with care, the entire system works better. Intersection rules aren’t just old-fashioned regulations from a driving manual. They’re there because people got hurt and because if we ignore them, more people will. So next time you approach a stop sign, don’t just slow down, stop. When the light goes amber, think twice before rushing. And at the circle, yield like you mean it. To view how many accidents occur in Potch, click on the following Facebook link: https://www.facebook.com/groups/527550188069893 #TheGoToGuy #potchefstroom #potchgazette #stroomstories #roadsafety #cartalk #stopyieldobey

The ever-popular Hartelus Market is back in Parys this winter, and while the chill might be in the air, the vibe is set to be warm and lekker. Mark the Date: 7 June 2025 Circle it, highlight it, put it in your phone, whatever your method, make sure you don’t forget Saturday, 7 June. That’s when Hartelus Market returns to its usual home at Egweni River Lodge, right in the heart of Parys at No. 2 Van Coller Street. The market runs from 9AM to 3PM, and while early birds might catch the best crafts, the relaxed, all-day buzz makes it worth staying for the music, food and chats. What's On Offer Hartelus Market isn't just a collection of stalls, it’s a proper meander. Expect a range of arts, crafts, clothing, decor, and creative odds and ends. Their vendors are known for keeping things fresh, so even regulars can count on spotting something new each time. Of course, a South African market wouldn’t be complete without food. There’ll be drinks, snacks and tasty bites to keep you going as you browse, chill in the sun or nod along to the live music on offer. Yes, There's Music Too The market will feature live performances to keep the atmosphere lively. Perfect for swaying with a cup of hot chocolate in hand or letting the kids (or gran) have a boogie in the winter sun. Bring the Dog (But Be Lekker) Yup, your four-legged friend is welcome too. Just be a decent human, leash them, bring the poop bags, and make sure they don’t get more excited than the toddlers. Entry Info R10 per person – that’s basically a boerie roll in 2002. Kids under 10 and pensioners over 70 get in free. Pay at the entrance, no need to book. And bonus: free parking. Making a Weekend of It? Parys tends to fill up fast when Hartelus is on, so if you're planning to make a proper trip of it, best you book your accommodation early. This event is popular, and for good reason. Contacts and Details Got questions? Or just want to stalk them for sneak peeks? Website: www.hartelus.co.za Facebook: HartelusMark Email: hartelusmark@gmail.com Phone / WhatsApp: 082 375 8361 or 082 641 9618 Whether you’re after locally made wares, some laid-back tunes or just looking for an excuse to get out of the house in your winter woolies, Hartelus Market is the spot. Just don’t forget the sunscreen, that winter sun’s sneaky.

Potch Agriculture College to Host Charity Golf Day on 30 May 2025 Golfers in and around Potchefstroom are polishing their clubs for a slightly unconventional tee-off this May. The upcoming Day/Night Golf Tournament, set to take place at Potch Agriculture College on 30 May 2025, promises a mix of competition, fun, and charity, and yes, a bit of night-time swing action too. A Tournament With a Twist The format caters to both the serious player and the weekend hacker. The main event is 18 holes, four-ball, priced at R3000 per team. For those who prefer their golf with a bit more flair (and potentially less walking), there's a 9-hole Watergat option at just R500 per hole, or "per gat", if we’re sticking to local lingo. The Watergat setup is not just about fun; it also gives businesses and sponsors a solid opportunity to get their brand seen while contributing to a good cause. As the organisers put it: "Don't Miss Out On A Great Marketing Opportunity!" A few Watergates are still available for those keen to jump in and show off their signage or just be part of the action. Who’s It For? Besides golfers looking for bragging rights, the big winners of the day will be the animals. The event supports PAWS (Potchefstroom Animal Welfare Society), an organisation focused on improving the lives of furry (and possibly feathered) friends in the area. Whether they bark, purr, or moo, the animals will benefit from every ball sliced into the rough. How to Join Entries are open, and registration is underway. Interested teams or sponsors can get in touch with: Darren: 082 334 0890 Hanlie: 065 094 2250 Whether you're there to compete, support, network, or just swing a club under the stars, the Day/Night Golf Tournament is shaping up to be a proper jol for a good cause.

Shooting for the Stars Montessori in Potchefstroom is throwing open the doors on 14 June 2025 for what promises to be a relaxed, nosey-around kind of Open Day. The school is inviting parents (and their little ones in Grades R through 5) to come poke around the classrooms, check out the facilities, and have a good gander at what the 2025/2026 academic years might look like. Whether you're just browsing or properly scouting for a place that encourages kids to think, reason, question, and (gasp) experiment, this one’s worth popping in for. The Details (Yes, Please Bring the Kids) Date: Saturday, 14 June 2025 Time: 10:00–12:00 Grades: R to 5 Venue: 14 Neethling Street, Baillie Park, Potchefstroom What’s It All About? The school is opening its gates to parents and guardians keen on Montessori education, that means more hands-on learning and less sitting quietly in rows pretending to listen. Shooting for the Stars isn’t just a poetic name; the team behind it is serious about helping kids grow into emotionally grounded, curious, and confident humans (and probably decent at long division too). Visitors can expect a guided walkabout, plenty of Q&A opportunities with the staff, and maybe a few answers to the classic “but what is Montessori?” question. Where to Find More Info (and Who to Call If You’re Lost) Website: shootingforthestar3.wixsite.com Facebook: facebook.com/shoo.tingforthestars2020 Phone / WhatsApp: 072 693 8352 Email: shootingforthestarsmontessori@gmail.com So, if your child is entering Grade R to 5 next year, and you're interested in a school where curiosity and independence aren't just buzzwords, 14 June might be worth scribbling into the diary. Plus, it’s only two hours, and they’ll have crayons. Probably.