Die klanke van skuif-en-stut weerklink tans harder as ooit by Laerskool Saamtrek. Die skool se Super 12-skaakspelers het vanoggend in ’n atmosfeer van groot opgewondenheid hul amptelike bekendstelling gehad, reg vir die uitdagende toernooi wat die komende naweek by die Sol-Tech-kampus in Pretoria gaan plaasvind. Foto: Laerskool Saamtrek Meer as Net ’n Spel op ’n Bord By Laerskool Saamtrek word skaak nie bloot as ’n buitemuurse aktiwiteit gesien nie, maar as ’n kragtige instrument vir die ontwikkeling van jong breine. Die skool beklemtoon dat skaak die perfekte platform bied om waardevolle lewensvaardighede aan te leer wat verby die 64 blokkies strek. Deur die sport ontwikkel die "Samies" se spelers: Geduld en Konsentrasie: Om die opponent se skuif af te wag en fyn te fokus op die bord. Strategiese Denke: Die vermoë om verskeie stappe vooruit te beplan en die gevolge van elke aksie te bereken. Selfvertroue: Om onafhanklike besluite onder druk te neem en te leer uit elke oorwinning én nederlaag. Die skool glo dat elke kind se unieke talent raakgesien moet word, en hierdie skaakspan is ’n sprekende voorbeeld van die diverse uitnemendheid wat Saamtrek koester. Dankbaarheid Teenoor Ruim Borge Geen groot onderneming is moontlik sonder die ondersteuning van die gemeenskap nie. Die skool het tydens die bekendstelling ’n opregte woord van dank gerig aan die borge wat hierdie droom vir die leerders moontlik maak. Met die ruim ondersteuning van die Arrie Nel Apteekgroep, Transem (Pty) Ltd en me. Annette Van Der Westhuizen, is elke speler met ’n pragtige geskenkpakkie verras. Hierdie belegging word gesien as veel meer as net materiële ondersteuning; dit is ’n belegging in die kinders se toekoms en die skep van herinneringe wat hulle hul hele lewe lank sal koester. Fokus op Pretoria Die Super 12-skaaktoernooi is een van die mees mededingende platforms vir laerskoolleerlinge in die land. Om op die gesogte Sol-Tech-kampus mee te ding, is ’n eer wat die spelers met trots aanvaar. Die boodskap van die skool aan hul "skaak-vegters" is duidelik: "Speel met trots, geniet elke oomblik en onthou, elke skuif is ’n geleentheid om te groei en te skitter!" Terwyl die span die naweek na Pretoria vertrek, dra hulle nie net hul skaakborde saam nie, maar ook die hoop en trots van die hele Samie-familie. #SamieTrots #Super12Skaak #StrategieseDenke #SaamtrekSkaak #ArrieNel #Transem #JongGroeiers #SkaakMat

Die verhoog is gereed, die ligte is gefokus en die opgewondenheid by Hoërskool Volkskool is besig om breekpunt te bereik. Volkies het onlangs aangekondig dat hulle vanjaar die trotse gasheer sal wees vir die hoogs verwagte Kultuur Clash, ’n gebeurtenis wat beloof om die hoogtepunt van die skool se kultuurkalender te wees. Foto: Hoërskool Volkskool ’n Viering van Talent en Passie Die Kultuur Clash is nie bloot ’n kompetisie nie; dit is ’n platform waar die ryk verskeidenheid van talent binne die skoolgemeenskap ten toon gestel word. Van aangrypende koorsang en energieke dansgetalle tot meesterlike instrumentele vertonings en dramatiese voordragte, die aand beloof om iets vir elke kuns- en kultuurliefhebber te bied. Die skool het in ’n aankondiging gedeel dat die geleentheid ’n viering is van die "talent en vreugde" wat die leerders uitstraal. Daar word klem gelê op die feit dat hierdie talente beskou word as gawes wat met die groter gemeenskap gedeel moet word. Die Gees van Volkies Vir die "Volkies" gaan hierdie aand oor meer as net die applous. Dit gaan oor die #VolkieTrots wat deur elke vertoning vloei. Om die gasheer te wees, bied aan die leerders die geleentheid om hul tuisgehoor te betower en die unieke kultuurgees van die skool met besoekers te deel. Die boodskap aan ouers, oud-leerders en ondersteuners is duidelik: Hou die datum oop! Dit is ’n geleentheid waar die gemeenskap saamkom om te sien hoe die leerders hul vlerke span en waarlik "hoog vlieg" op die verhoog. Wat om te verwag Hoewel die presiese programinhoud dikwels ’n verrassing bly tot die aand van die vertoning, kan gaste uitsien na: Hoë-energie optredes wat die kreatiwiteit van die jeug beklemtoon. ’n Atmosfeer van samehorigheid waar elke leerder se unieke bydrae gevier word. Professionele produksie-gehalte wat Volkies se standaard vir uitnemendheid weerspieël. Namate Potchefstroom gereed maak vir hierdie kultuurskouspel, is dit duidelik dat die Kultuur Clash 2026 weer eens gaan bewys waarom kultuur die hartklop van Hoërskool Volkskool is. Maak seker jy mis nie hierdie aand van pure talent en inspirasie nie. #volkiekultuur #volkietrots #VliegHoog #KultuurClash2026 #PotchEvents #SkoolKultuur

Die droom van ’n eie, wêreldklas-hokkiefasiliteit het vandag ’n tasbare werklikheid geword vir Hoërskool Wesvalia. In ’n atmosfeer gelaai met afwagting en opregte Wessie-trots, het die skool die amptelike grondbreekseremonie vir hul nuwe Astro-hokkieveld gehou. Hierdie geleentheid word reeds beskryf as een van die mees deurslaggewende mylpale in die skool se onlangse geskiedenis. Foto: Hoërskool Wesvalia Meer as Net Kunsgras en Infrastruktuur Vir die Wessies is hierdie projek nie bloot ’n kwessie van bakstene en kunsgras nie; dit word beskou as ’n strategiese belegging in die skool se sportiewe siel. Tydens die seremonie het die skoolbestuur beklemtoon dat hierdie veld veel meer as ’n oefenoppervlak sal wees. Dit gaan ’n heilige plek word waar drome gebou word, karakter onder druk gevorm word en lewenslange herinneringe tussen spanmaats geskep gaan word. Die projek simboliseer nuwe geleenthede vir groei en dien as ’n kragtige platform waar Wessie-hokkie tot ongekende nuwe hoogtes kan styg. Die visie is duidelik: om die fasiliteit te gebruik as ’n voertuig vir die holistiese ontwikkeling van elke leerder wat die veld betree. ’n Blink Toekoms vir Wessie-Hokkie Die opgewondenheid in die skool se gange was byna tasbaar namate leerders, personeel en ouers besef het dat die jarelange gewag uiteindelik verby is. Vir te lank moes die skool se spanne staatmaak op eksterne fasiliteite, wat logistieke uitdagings meegebring het. Met hierdie nuwe wêreldklas-fasiliteit op hul eie drumpel, sal Wesvalia nou in staat wees om op gelyke voet met die land se mees gerekende hokkieskole mee te ding. Dit bied aan die spelers die ideale, professionele oppervlak om hul tegniese vaardighede te slyp, balbeheer te vervolmaak en hul passie vir die sport sonder beperkings uit te leef. Dit plaas Wesvalia stewig op die kaart as ’n voorkeurbestemming vir opkomende hokkietalent in die streek. Saam Bou Ons die Toekoms Die suksesvolle aanvang van hierdie projek is ’n kragtige bewys van die skool se visie vir uitnemendheid en die onbaatsugtige ondersteuning van die breër Wessie-gemeenskap. Van die donateurs tot die ouers en oud-leerders, die hele Klerksdorp-gemeenskap het hande gevat om hierdie droom te ontsluit. Die boodskap van die dag was duidelik en kragtig: "Saam bou ons nie net aan ’n Astro nie, ons bou aan die toekoms van Wessie-hokkie." Hierdie veld gaan binnekort die tuiste word van vele titaniese stryde en die kweekplek waar toekomstige provinsiale en selfs nasionale sterre hul eerste stappe na glorie sal gee. Namate die eerste sooi vandag amptelik omgespit is, is die fondament gelê vir ’n nalatenskap wat vir geslagte lank die vrugte van sukses en skooltrots vir Hoërskool Wesvalia sal afwerp. Die toekoms van hokkie in Klerksdorp lyk blinker as ooit vantevore. #WessieGreatness #AstroGrondbreek #WesvaliaHokkie #NuweEra #SportInfrastruktuur #KlerksdorpSport #WessieTrots #HokkieDrome

Klerksdorp Javelin Academy is beaming with pride following the announcement that one of its elite athletes, Marques Olivier, has taken a massive leap toward the international stage. Marques has been officially included in the preliminary South African squad set to compete at the World U20 Athletics Championships later this year in Oregon, USA. Image: Klerksdorp Javelin Academy A Milestone for Local Talent This achievement highlights the exceptional work being done at the academy under the guidance of experts like Jacques Vosloo. Attracting the attention of national selectors in a discipline like the javelin, where South Africa boasts a rich tradition of world-class athletes, is an incredible feat. Marques’ inclusion confirms his status as one of the country’s most exciting emerging throwing stars. The Road to the USA The World U20 Championships is regarded as the most important platform for young athletes to test their mettle against the best in the world. For Marques, this preliminary inclusion means he is firmly on the radar of Athletics South Africa (ASA) for the final team traveling to Oregon. The prospect of competing at the famous Hayward Field stadium in the USA is a dream now within reach for this Klerksdorp powerhouse. Academy Pride and Dedication The Klerksdorp Javelin Academy extended its heartfelt congratulations to Marques, emphasizing that his relentless hard work and dedication are yielding the rewards he deserves. His success serves as an inspiration to other athletes in the academy, proving that with the right coaching and attitude, local talent can reach the world stage. As the athletics season progresses, the entire Klerksdorp community will be watching Marques closely, supporting his quest to earn his final green-and-gold colors for the journey to America. Achievement Snapshot: Athlete: Marques Olivier Discipline: Javelin (U20) Achievement: Selection for the Preliminary South African Squad Destination: World U20 Championships (Oregon, USA) Institution: Klerksdorp Javelin Academy #KlerksdorpJavelin #MarquesOlivier #Oregon2026 #WorldU20 #JavelinPride #SAAthletics #JavelinThrow #KlerksdorpSport #GreenAndGold

Die bekende sangeres Jennifer Zamudio gaan binnekort die verhoog in Potchefstroom warm sing. Met 15 solo-albums en 25 jaar in die bedryf agter haar naam, weet Jennifer presies hoe om ’n gehoor te vermaak. Sy is deesdae nie net ’n sangeres nie, maar ook ’n groot name op sosiale media waar sy gereeld vars content deel. Hierdie geleentheid word moontlik gemaak deur die Potchefstroom Fire Protection Association (FPA). Waar en wanneer? Merk sommer nou al die kalender vir 8 Augustus 2026. Die hele affêre skop om 19:00 af by die Potchefstroom Banketsaal. Dit beloof om ’n aand vol goeie musiek en lekker gees te wees, so dit is dalk ’n goeie idee om vroegtydig reg te maak. Kaartjies en sitplekke Daar is ’n paar opsies as dit by kaartjies kom. As jy net jouself en dalk ’n metgesel wil saambring, kos gewone stoele R200 per persoon. Vir diegene wat in ’n groter groep wil kom, is daar tafels beskikbaar. Hier is die besonderhede: Prys: R3 500 per tafel. Grootte: Elke tafel het plek vir 14 mense. Bonus: As jy ’n tafel bespreek, mag jy jou eie koelerboks saambring om die keel nat te hou. Iets vir die honger kol op die maag Niemand hoef met ’n leë maag daar te sit nie. Daar gaan worsbroodjies en koeldranke te koop wees vir die gaste wat honger word tussen die liedjies deur. Dit is die ideale geleentheid vir gesinne of besighede om bietjie uit te kom en die aand saam te geniet. Hoe om te bespreek Moenie wag tot die laaste minuut nie. Vir kaartjies of meer inligting kan jy vir Jeanetta kontak by 076-631-8115. Of jy nou lus is vir ’n kuier saam met die familie of ’n spanbou-sessie vir die kantoor, Jennifer se vertoning is waar jy wil wees.

Die Wilge Hoërskool is hosting a Golf Day at the Potchefstroom Country Club on 28 May 2026. The event offers a blend of sport and social networking, moving away from the typical office environment for a day on the greens. Format and Play The day features a Better Ball format, designed to encourage a relaxed yet competitive atmosphere. A shotgun start at 10:30 will see all players head out to their respective tees simultaneously, ensuring everyone finishes the round together for the post-match formalities. Entry Details and Sponsorship Local businesses and social groups have several options for participation. A standard 4-ball entry is priced at R2 000, while those looking to increase their brand visibility can opt for a 4-ball and hole sponsorship package for R3 000. For organisations only interested in branding, individual hole sponsorships are available for R1 500. Players are reminded that golf carts are not included in the entry fee and must be booked directly through the Pro Shop. A Social Outing The event is pitched as an inclusive day out, welcoming seasoned golfers and those new to the game alike. The organisers have encouraged a light-hearted approach, noting that even those who prefer driving the cart rather than swinging a club are welcome to join the teams for a day of unwinding and networking. General Info Venue: Potchefstroom Country Club - Mooi River Avenue, Potchefstroom, 2520 Date: 28 May 2026 Contact for Bookings: 082-872-6272

The recent detection of Hantavirus on South African soil serves as a powerful testament to the country's world-class medical surveillance and diagnostic capabilities. Rather than signaling a looming public health crisis, this discovery highlights a "best-case scenario" for modern epidemiology: a rare, imported pathogen was identified, isolated, and contained before it could ever pose a significant threat to the general population. This level of precision, identifying a specific, non-endemic virus within 24 hours of a patient's arrival, demonstrates the robust "safety net" provided by the National Institute for Communicable Diseases (NICD) and local health authorities. By catching the virus at the gates, South Africa has turned what could have been a silent spread into a controlled medical event, proving that our systems are primed to protect the public from global health threats with clinical efficiency. How did it get here? The virus arrived via an international cruise ship, the MV Hondius, which was traveling from South America. The Travel Route: The ship stopped at various islands (like St. Helena and Ascension) before passengers headed home. The Cases: Two primary cases were identified in South Africa, both were tourists from the ship. One tragically passed away after collapsing at OR Tambo International Airport, and another (a British national) is being treated in stable condition in a Johannesburg hospital. Is it spreading in South Africa? No. The most important fact to know is that Hantavirus is NOT endemic to South Africa. * Our local rodents do not carry this virus. The cases we have seen were "imported" by travelers who were exposed elsewhere (specifically the Andes strain from South America). Because the virus is not in our local animal population, there is no ongoing "source" for a local outbreak. Why You Shouldn’t Panic While the word "virus" can be scary, the risk to the average South African is extremely low for several reasons: Rare Transmission: Unlike COVID-19, Hantavirus does not spread easily through the air or casual contact. It typically requires very close, prolonged contact with an infected person or direct contact with infected South American rodents. Swift Containment: The National Institute for Communicable Diseases (NICD) identified the virus within 24 hours, a "needle in a haystack" achievement. Contact Tracing: Health officials have already traced and are monitoring nearly 100 people (including flight passengers and healthcare workers) to ensure the chain is broken. As of now, the World Health Organization (WHO) assesses the global risk as low. What You Need to Know The Symptoms In the rare event of exposure, the "prodrome" (early) phase includes: Fever and chills Severe muscle aches and fatigue Headache, dizziness, and abdominal pain The Golden Rule: Trust Legitimate Sources Fake news often spreads faster than any virus. To stay truly informed and avoid unnecessary anxiety, only follow these official channels: The NICD: www.nicd.ac.za Department of Health: Official social media and websites. Government News (SAnews): www.sanews.gov.za Image Credit: Dr KK District Health Bottom Line: South Africa’s health systems caught this early and have contained the individuals involved. There is no need to change your daily routine or worry about an outbreak in your neighborhood. Stay calm, stay informed, and ignore the "wildfire" of social media rumors. #HantavirusFacts #SouthAfricaHealth #NICD #StayInformed 🛡️🦠📉📢

Die gemeenskap van Potchefstroom Gimnasium (Gimmies) het weereens gewys dat hul omgee geen grense ken nie. Die onlangse Huis Hebron Omgee-projek het alle verwagtinge oortref, danksy die oorweldigende vrygewigheid van ouers en leerders wat hande gevat het om ’n tasbare verskil in die lewens van ander te maak. Foto: Potchefstroom Gimnasium ’n Inspirerende Gees van Welwillendheid Die Gimmie-familie staan bekend vir hul uitnemendheid op die sportveld en in die klaskamer, maar hierdie projek het die kollig op hul deernis geplaas. Die bereidwilligheid van die skoolgemeenskap om met oop harte en hande by te dra, het gehelp om hoop en noodsaaklike voorraad aan die inwoners van Huis Hebron te bied. Hierdie inisiatief is ’n bewys dat die skool se waardes van naasteliefde en gemeenskapsbetrokkenheid diep gewortel is. Indrukwekkende Innamestatistiek Die omvang van die skenkings is ’n duidelike aanduiding van die passie waarmee die Gimmies hierdie projek aangepak het. Die finale syfers van die insameling spreek boekdele vir die kollektiewe poging van die skool: Wat kosvoorraad betref, is ’n enorme 277,33 kg suiker en 5000 teesakkies ingesamel, wat verseker dat die inwoners vir ’n geruime tyd van warm drankies voorsien sal wees. Die skenking het ook stewige stapelvoedsel ingesluit, met 121,5 kg rys en presies dieselfde hoeveelheid mieliemeel (121,5 kg). Vir ontbyt en versnaperinge het die gemeenskap 90,28 kg hawermout, 9,8 kg koekies en 10,1 kg koffie bygedra. Daarbenewens is 435 blikkieskos ingesamel, wat ’n noodsaaklike bron van proteïene en groente vir die skuiling se spens bied. Trots op die Gimmie-Familie Die skoolbestuur het hul opregte dank uitgespreek teenoor elke individu wat ’n bydrae gelewer het, ongeag die grootte daarvan. Hierdie projek het nie net gehelp om maagies vol te maak nie, maar het ook die band binne die skoolgemeenskap versterk. Deur projekte soos hierdie, leer leerders die onskatbare les dat ware rykdom lê in wat mens vir ander kan beteken. Onder die vaandel van #GimmiesGeeOm, gaan die skool voort om ’n baken van hoop in Potchefstroom te wees. Die sukses van die Huis Hebron-projek sal ongetwyfeld as inspirasie dien vir toekomstige uitreikaksies. Opsomming van Skenkings: Die Gimmies het gesamentlik meer as 600 kg aan droë produkte en duisende eenhede tee en blikkieskos ingesamel om Huis Hebron te ondersteun. #GimmieFamilie #GimmiesGeeOm #PotchGimmies #GimmiesVatHande #HuisHebron #OmgeeProjek #Liefdadigheid #PotchefstroomOmgee

As the Highveld chill begins to settle over Potchefstroom, homeowners face a recurring seasonal threat: geyser failure. Winter is traditionally the peak period for plumbing emergencies, as extreme temperature fluctuations place immense stress on heating elements and valves. Image(Provided) : Horn's Plumbing Services When combined with the North West’s notoriously hard water, the risk of a catastrophic burst increases significantly during May and June. While a midnight emergency replacement is a massive and costly inconvenience, a proactive winter maintenance check from Horn’s Plumbing is a simple step that ensures long-term peace of mind. The Winter Plumbing Checklist Every Potch Homeowner Needs To help residents prepare before the deep winter freeze, Horn’s Plumbing recommends a five-point inspection to ensure every household remains dry and functional: Geyser Age and Condition: Most units have a specific lifespan. If a geyser is aging, it is a prime candidate for failure when the water temperature drops. Pipe Insulation: Exposed pipes are the first to succumb to freezing temperatures. Quality lagging is essential to prevent ice expansion from cracking the copper. Outdoor Tap Protection: Garden taps are often overlooked. Disconnecting hoses and insulating external fixtures prevents ice from traveling back into the home's main lines. Toilet Mechanisms: Small leaks in the cistern often worsen in cold weather as rubber seals harden and lose their effectiveness, leading to silent water waste. Visible Leaks: Any damp spots on walls or ceilings should be addressed immediately; cold weather can turn a minor hairline crack into a major burst. Image(Provided) : Horn's Plumbing Services Understanding the Geyser Health Check A professional maintenance check from Horn’s Plumbing goes beyond a simple visual inspection. Christo and his team provide a comprehensive "Geyser Health Check" that focuses on the internal components that matter most. This includes testing the thermostat for accuracy, ensuring the pressure relief valve is functioning to prevent dangerous pressure buildup, and assessing the element condition. Crucially, the team inspects the sacrificial anode, a vital component that prevents the tank from rusting. Replacing a worn anode is a minor maintenance task that can significantly extend the life of the entire system. Image(Provide) : Horn's Plumbing Services The Potchefstroom Hard Water Reality Local residents are well aware of the white, chalky residue left on kettles and showerheads, but the hidden damage is much more severe. Potchefstroom’s hard water is rich in minerals that accelerate scale buildup inside plumbing systems. This scaling coats geyser elements, forcing them to work harder and consume more electricity before eventually burning out. It also narrows the diameter of pipes over time, increasing pressure and the likelihood of leaks. Unlike national chains, Horn’s Plumbing understands this hyperlocal challenge and specializes in protecting systems against the specific mineral profile of the Potch environment. Business Details 📞Contact Number : 072 332 7567 📍Address : Potchefstroom 🔗Webbie Link : https://www.thegotoguy.co.za/potchefstroom/horns-plumbing-services-pty-ltd

Huge congratulations to the team at Build it Potchefstroom for being officially crowned the Best Hardware Store in the Best of Potch Readers’ Choice Awards 2026! Image (Facebook) : Build it Potchefstroom This prestigious recognition is a testament to the "Yes We Can!" spirit and the expert technical services you provide to the Potch community. From precision plan reading to helping homeowners save thousands through accurate material quantification, you’ve proven that you are more than just a store,you are a vital partner in every local build. To the community that voted: thank you for recognizing excellence. To the Build it team: keep setting the gold standard for hardware and professional advice! THANK YOU, POTCHEFSTROOM! We are incredibly proud and honoured to be voted the Best Hardware Store in the Best of Potch Readers’ Choice Awards 2026! This achievement would not have been possible without the amazing support, trust, and loyalty from our customers and community. Thank you for choosing Build it Potchefstroom and allowing us to serve you every day. Your support inspires us to keep building it better! Build It Information Office: 018-297-6608 Mobile: 083-303-6865 WhatsApp: 083-303-6865 E-mail: marketing@potchbuildit.com Address : 46 Wolmarans Street, Potchefstroom, South Africa

Looking to get your car showroom-ready while supporting a great cause? Mark your calendars! Body Trim, known for their dedication to keeping the community fit and "young at heart," is trading the gym floor for the wash bay. On May 23, 2026, Body Trim will be hosting their next community car wash event. It’s the perfect opportunity to clear off the road grime and give your vehicle the shine it deserves. Event Details The event is designed to be accessible and affordable for everyone in the community. Here is what you need to know: Date: Saturday, 23 May 2026 Location: 9072 Isago Street (Ikageng Loc) Pricing: * Cars: R70 Taxis: R100 Why Attend? Beyond just getting a clean car, this event is about community spirit. The team at Body Trim emphasizes that "Your support will really be appreciated." Whether you drive a compact hatchback or manage a taxi fleet, your contribution helps sustain the local initiatives that keep the neighborhood active and healthy. Book Your Spot With a reputation for excellence, spots are expected to fill up fast. Don’t wait until the day of—ensure your vehicle is on the list by booking now. Contact for Bookings: > 📞 +27 65 956 6018 Grab your keys, head down to Isago Street, and let the Body Trim team work their magic. We'll see you there!

As the Vodacom United Rugby Championship (URC) enters its final regular-season round, South Africa’s top three contenders are adopting a "knockout footing" to secure critical home-ground advantages. Following a weekend of high drama and controversial officiating, the DHL Stormers have officially secured a home quarter-final, ensuring the Mother City will host playoff rugby at the end of May. While the Stormers have crossed the finish line, the battle for top-four finishes remains a boiling point for their northern rivals. DHL Stormers: The Hunt for Pole Position Final Score: Ulster 38 – 38 DHL Stormers Man of the Match: Sacha Feinberg-Mngomezulu (Impact player) The Stormers remain in 2nd place with 59 points after a thrilling draw in Belfast. While a match-levelling penalty try secured three vital log points, the result felt like two points lost due to self-inflicted wounds and uncharacteristic indiscipline. Performance: Dominance in various phases was undermined by elementary errors and penalties conceded on the Ulster tryline. What’s at Stake: They cannot finish lower than third, but a win over Cardiff on Friday, combined with a potential Glasgow slip-up against Ulster, could see the Cape side reclaim 1st place and home-ground advantage through the semi-finals. Vodacom Bulls: Defending the Top Four Final Score: Vodacom Bulls 54 – 19 Zebre Parma Man of the Match: Harold Vorster The Bulls solidified their top-four ambitions with a clinical nine-try dismantling of Zebre at Loftus Versfeld. Performance: Despite a tendency to "overplay" in earlier rounds, the Pretoria outfit found their rhythm to secure a full house of points. What’s at Stake: Currently in 4th place with 54 points, the Bulls host Benetton this Saturday. A win at Loftus is essential to guarantee a home quarter-final and stave off the hard-charging Lions. Fidelity SecureDrive Lions: Aggrieved but Resilient Final Score: Leinster 31 – 7 Fidelity SecureDrive Lions Standout: Siba Mahashe (Controversial "non-try") The Lions find themselves in 5th place, level on 54 points with the Bulls, after a frustrating night in Dublin marred by highly debatable TMO interventions. Performance: A marginal call to chalk off a Siba Mahashe try, after the conversion had already been attempted, condemned the Lions to chase a 14-point deficit rather than trailing by two. What’s at Stake: The Lions head to Thomond Park to face Munster in the weekend's final game. Depending on earlier results involving Edinburgh and Connacht, they may start the match already assured of their first-ever playoff spot, playing purely for a home quarter-final. Hollywoodbets Sharks: A Glimpse into the Future Final Score: Hollywoodbets Sharks 46 – 7 Benetton Man of the Match: André Esterhuizen Though out of playoff contention, the Sharks brought cheer to Durban fans by ruthlessly dispatching a flat Benetton side. Performance: Younger stars like Jurenzo Julius and Zikethelu Siyaya were at the forefront, sparking hope for a better future in the Shark Tank. What’s at Stake: The Sharks close their season against Zebre on Saturday, playing for pride and momentum ahead of the next campaign. Vodacom URC Standings (Round 17) Rank Club Played Won Points 1 Glasgow Warriors 17 12 60 2 DHL Stormers 17 12 59 3 Leinster Rugby 17 11 58 4 Vodacom Bulls 17 11 54 5 Lions 17 10 53 6 Munster Rugby 17 10 51 7 Cardiff Rugby 17 10 50 8 Ulster Rugby 17 9 50 Final Round Fixtures (SA Times) Cardiff v DHL Stormers: Friday, 20:45 Sharks v Zebre: Saturday, 13:45 Vodacom Bulls v Benetton: Saturday, 16:00 Munster v Lions: Saturday, 20:45 With the Stormers within a point of the top and the Bulls and Lions locked in a battle for 4th, the final weekend of the league season promises to be a grueling sprint toward playoff glory. Image Credits: Vodacom United Rugby Championship - URC #URC #SARugby #RaceToTheEight #LoftusVersfeld 🏉🇿🇦🏆🔥

The Australian-based worship collective, Planetshakers, is set to perform in Potchefstroom this week. Known globally for their high-energy performances and contemporary praise music, the group will take the stage at CRC Potchefstroom on Wednesday, 13 May 2026. Originating from Melbourne, the band has built a reputation over nearly three decades for a sound that blends modern rock and pop elements with spiritual themes. Their visit to the North West forms part of a broader international schedule, bringing their signature "overflow" style to local audiences. Event Logistics and Venue The event is hosted at the Dagbreek Estates venue. To ensure a smooth flow for the evening, doors are scheduled to open at 18:00, with the main session commencing at 18:30. Tickets are positioned at a flat rate of R180.00 per person. Given the band's international profile, the organisers have utilised the Quicket platform for all bookings to manage the expected turnout. What to Expect Those attending can anticipate a programme that mirrors the group's recorded live albums, fusing loud, upbeat anthems with quieter, reflective moments. The evening is designed to be family-friendly, catering to both long-time followers of the movement and those curious about the contemporary gospel music scene. At a Glance Date: 13 May 2026 Time: Doors open at 18:00 Venue: CRC Potchefstroom, Dagbreek Estates Entry: R180.00 Bookings: Available via quicket.co.za

The JB Marks Local Municipality has issued a public notice regarding a scheduled water shutdown affecting several areas this coming Tuesday, 12 May 2026. The interruption is necessary to facilitate essential upgrade works at the Ikageng Pump Station. The project involves technical enhancements to the municipal water network, specifically focusing on Pump Station No. 7. Teams will be isolating discharge valves to connect a new 450mm diameter steel pipeline to the existing system. Key Details of the Shutdown Residents and businesses in the affected zones should take note of the following schedule: Date: Tuesday, 12 May 2026 Start Time: 06h00 End Time: Completion of works (anticipated by Tuesday evening) Affected Areas The municipality has identified the following primary areas that will experience water supply interruptions: Ikageng Proper (Old Ikageng) Potchindustria Advice for Residents The Communication Unit of the JB Marks Local Municipality encourages residents to store sufficient water for household use—such as drinking, cooking, and basic hygiene—prior to the 06h00 cutoff on Tuesday morning. While the municipality aims to resume pumping operations immediately after the tie-in works are completed, the duration of the outage is dependent on the complexity of the installation. "These upgrades form part of ongoing efforts to improve water infrastructure and service delivery to the public," the municipality stated. "We apologize for any inconvenience caused and appreciate the community's patience." For further updates, residents can visit the official municipality website at www.jbmarks.co.za or follow their official social media pages on Facebook, TikTok, and WhatsApp.

The dawn of a new era in Southern Hemisphere age-group rugby was realized on Saturday as the Junior Springboks were crowned the 2026 SANZAAR Under-20 Rugby Championship winners. In a pulsating finale at the Nelson Mandela Bay Stadium, the South Africans played out a dramatic 29-29 draw against defending champions New Zealand. While the scoreboard remained level at the final whistle, the solitary log point earned by the Junior Boks for scoring four tries was enough to see them finish the tournament with 13 points, well clear of the second-placed Kiwis. In front of a partisan crowd of over 18,000, the home side effectively dethroned the traditional powerhouses of the youth game to keep the trophy on South African soil. A Back-and-Forth Battle for Supremacy The contest began with the intensity expected of a title decider. The Junior Boks drew first blood through the boot of Yaqeen Ahmed, but New Zealand responded quickly with a try from prop Dane Johnston. The first half transformed into a high-scoring tug-of-war; Akahluwa Boqwana showcased his pace by crossing for a brace, while the New Zealanders utilized their clinical maul to stay within touching distance. A pivotal moment arrived when Rambo Kubheka powered over from a lineout drive, helping the South Africans secure a 22-15 lead at the break. However, the advantage came at a cost, as influential inside centre Ethan Adams was forced from the field with an injury, necessitating a tactical reshuffle that saw Vusi Moyo enter the fray. The Championship-Sealing Moment The defining moment of the tournament occurred just sixty seconds into the second half. Following a superb take from a high kick by Khuthadzo Rasivhaga, the Junior Boks moved the ball with clinical precision to find Samuel Badenhorst in the corner. His try, the team’s fourth of the afternoon, secured the crucial bonus point required to mathematically clinch the championship. Despite the title being safe, the match remained a spectacle of elite youth rugby. New Zealand refused to capitulate, scoring through Finn McLeod to narrow the gap. The final minutes were fraught with tension as the Kiwis were reduced to 14 men following a red card to Siale Pahulu, only for South Africa to concede a penalty try in the dying moments after a deliberate knock-on by Jack Benade. The resulting 29-29 deadlock reflected the razor-thin margins between the two sides. Final Standings and Tournament Success The draw concluded a highly successful tournament for the South African organizers. Earlier in the day, Australia edged Argentina 32-30 in another nail-biter to claim third place. The final log reflects the Junior Boks' consistency throughout the campaign, remaining the only unbeaten team in the competition. Final U20 Rugby Championship Log - 2026 # Team PL W D L PD PTS 1 South Africa U20 3 2 1 0 +33 13 2 New Zealand U20 3 1 1 1 +5 8 3 Australia U20 3 1 0 2 -16 7 4 Argentina U20 3 1 0 2 -22 7 Final whistle The Junior Springboks have reached the summit of SANZAAR youth rugby, proving that the future of the green and gold is in safe hands. By combining the legendary tactical physicality of the Springbok brand with a resilient attacking mindset, this squad has set a new standard for age-group excellence in South Africa. While the draw against New Zealand served as a reminder of the narrow gaps at the top level, the trophy in the cabinet is all that matters for the 18,138 fans who witnessed history in Gqeberha. As the celebrations begin, the focus will soon shift to maintaining this dominance on the world stage. Image credits: SA Junior Rugby #JuniorBoks #Champions #U20Rugby #SpringbokFuture 🇿🇦🏉🥇

Promosa Primêr has issued an official notice to all parents and guardians regarding a change to the school schedule for today, Monday, 11 May 2026. To ensure you can plan your day accordingly, here are the essential details regarding the early closure: Key Details Dismissal Time: 12:30 Date: Monday, 11 May 2026 Reason: Professional development workshop for staff Why is the school closing early? The early dismissal is a result of 16 teachers attending a professional development workshop. These sessions are vital for staff to stay updated on the latest educational standards and teaching methodologies, ultimately benefiting the learners' academic growth. Action Required for Parents The school administration has requested that all parents and guardians: Arrange Transport: Ensure that transport arrangements are in place to collect learners promptly at 12:30. Safety First: If your child usually takes a bus or a private shuttle, please verify with the service provider that they are aware of the earlier pickup time. "Thank you for your understanding and support," the school stated in the official notice, acknowledging the logistical shift this may cause for families. For further inquiries, parents are encouraged to contact the school's administrative office directly.

Die rugbyman van Potchefstroom Gimnasium (Gimmies) het die afgelope naweek gewys waarom hulle as een van die mees gedugte kragte in die Virseker Noordvaal Cup Bowl-afdeling beskou word. In 'n reeks taai kragmetings teen Hoërskool Bergsig, het die Gimmies se diepte en veggees deurslaggewend geblyk in 'n dag wat gekenmerk is deur titaniese stryde op die veld. Foto: Potchefstroom Gimnasium 'n Dag van Oorheersing en Deursettingsvermoë Die algehele rekord van die dag getuig van 'n puik spanpoging oor alle ouderdomsgroepe heen. Die Gimmies het weggestap met vyf kliniese oorwinnings, terwyl hulle in drie wedstryde net-net aan die kortste ent getrek het. Die merkwaardige gelykopuitslag van die o.14A-span onderstreep hoe fyn die marges tussen hierdie twee skole was. Junior Spanne Lê die Fondasie Die junior ouderdomsgroepe het die pas aangegee met uitstekende vertonings. Die o.15-spanne was veral indrukwekkend, met beide die A- en B-spanne wat oortuigende seges behaal het. Die o.15B-span se telling van 33–7 was een van die grootste oorwinnings van die dag. Die o.14B-span het ook karakter gewys deur 'n naelskraapse wedstryd met 12–10 te beklink, wat die "Gimmie-guts" waaroor die skool so trots is, perfek weerspieël. Senior Krag en Naelskraapse Stryde In die senior afdeling het die o.19B-span die toeskouers gaande gehad met 'n reuse-oorwinning van 54–12, terwyl die o.19C-span ook daarin geslaag het om hul teenstanders met 12–0 te troef sonder om 'n enkele punt af te staan. Die o.19A-wedstryd was 'n riller wat tot die laaste minuut toe gewissel het, maar ongelukkig moes die Gimmies met 31–35 die knie buig in 'n hoë-tempo kragmeting wat enige kant toe kon gaan. Trots op die Gimmie-gees Die skoolbestuur het hul uiterste trots uitgespreek oor die spelers en afrigters se toewyding. Die Noordvaal Cup is bekend vir sy strawwe kompetisie, en om vyf seges teen 'n skool soos Bergsig te behaal, is 'n bewys van die kwaliteit van rugby wat by Gimmies beoefen word. Die geesdrif langs die veld en die dissipline op die veld was weereens 'n bewys dat die Gimmie-familie as 'n hegte eenheid saamstaan. Statistieke van die Dag: Algehele uitslag: 5 Wen | 3 Verloor | 1 Gelykop Grootste Seges: o.19B: 54 – 12 o.15B: 33 – 7 Naelskraapse uitslae: o.14A: 17 – 17 (Gelykop) o.14B: 12 – 10 (Wen) o.16A: 12 – 13 (Verloor) o.19A: 31 – 35 (Verloor) #GimmieTrots #GimmieRugby #GimmieGuts #GimmieGeleenthede #NoordvaalCup #BowlAfdeling #SkoleRugby #PotchGim

Die koue byt van die winter kon nie die geesdrif van Laerskool Saamtrek se atlete demp tydens hul onlangse netbal- en rugbywedstryde teen Laerskool Mooirivier nie. Op Donderdag, 7 Mei 2026, het die Samies na Potchefstroom gereis om sake teen Laerskool Mooirivier uit te spook, en ten spyte van die ysige weer, was die aksie op die bane en velde vuurwarm. Foto: Laerskool Saamtrek Deursettingsvermoë in Uitdagende Toestande Die dag was gekenmerk deur uiterste weerstoestande wat die spelers se fisiese en geestelike krag tot die uiterste beproef het. Tog het die leerders van Saamtrek gewys dat hul passie vir hul sport en hul skool groter is as enige kouefront. Van die eerste fluitjie tot die laaste oomblikke van die wedstryde, het die Samies met ’n merkwaardige fokus en deursettingsvermoë gespeel wat die toeskouers langs die kantlyn herhaaldelik laat opstaan het om te juig. Spanwerk en Sportmanskap as Fondasie Wat veral tydens die dag opgeval het, was die uitstekende spanwerk wat deur al die ouderdomsgroepe aan die dag gelê is. Of dit nou op die netbalbaan was waar die vloei van die bal vinnig en akkuraat was, of op die rugbyveld waar die voorspelers en agterspelers mekaar blindelings gevind het, die Samies het as ’n hegte eenheid opgetree. Hierdie samespel is aangevul deur ’n gesonde dosis sportmangees, waar respek vir die teenstanders en die amptenare sentraal gestaan het tot die dag se verrigtinge. ’n Dag van Trotse Herinneringe Die groot opgewondenheid langs die veld het getuig van die sterk ondersteuningsbasis wat die Samies geniet. Ouers en onderwysers het die koue trotseer om die spelers aan te moedig, wat bygedra het tot ’n atmosfeer van eenheid en skooltrots. Die dag teen Mooirivier was meer as net ’n sportinteraksie; dit was ’n bewys van die karakter wat by Laerskool Saamtrek gekweek word,’n karakter wat nie terugstaan vir uitdagings nie en altyd poog om die skool se naam met eer te verdedig. #SamieTrots #SaamtrekRugby #SaamtrekNetbal #Skolesport2026 #SamiesVsToktokkies #GeesEnGuts #KlerksdorpSport #WinterSport

Die lug in Potchefstroom was gevul met engelstemme toe die jaarlikse NW Kinderkoor Fees onlangs plaasgevind het. Vir Laerskool Baillie Park was dit ’n aand van uitsonderlike trots, aangesien die skool se ryk musikale talent op die nasionale verhoog sowel as binne die plaaslike koorgemeenskap ten toon gestel is. Foto: Laerskool Baillie Park ’n Sterk Verteenwoordiging in die Provinsiale Koor Die skool se harte swel van trots met die aankondiging van die groot aantal Baillies wat verkies is tot die gesogte Noordwes Kinderkoor. Om deel te wees van hierdie provinsiale koor is ’n merkwaardige prestasie wat getuig van harde werk, dissipline en natuurlike sangtalent. Hierdie leerders dien as ambassadeurs vir Baillie Park en dra die skool se naam met eer tussen die beste jong sangers in die provinsie. Juniorkoor Deel die Verhoog Die fees was ’n ware familie-affêre vir die skool, aangesien die Baillies Juniorkoor ook die geleentheid gekry het om tydens die fees op te tree. Deur saam met die NW Kinderkoor en verskeie ander top-kore op te tree, het die jonger sangers waardevolle ervaring opgedoen. Die geleentheid was ’n viering van koormusiek op sy beste, waar die harmonieë van verskillende groepe saamgesmelt het om ’n onvergeetlike atmosfeer te skep. Gemeenskap se Ondersteuning Die skoolbestuur het die gemeenskap aangemoedig om hierdie musiekfees heelhartig te ondersteun. Die teenwoordigheid van ouers en ondersteuners bied die nodige aanmoediging vir die leerders om hul beste te lewer. Die skool het elkeen van hul sangers sterkte toegewens en beklemtoon dat hul passie vir musiek die hele Baillie-gemeenskap inspireer. Onder die vaandel van #TrotsBaillie, gaan hierdie leerders voort om te bewys dat uitnemendheid by Baillie Park nie net op die sportveld of in die klaskamer gevind word nie, maar ook in die pragtige klanke van hul kore. Fees-inligting: Geleentheid: NW Kinderkoor Fees Deelnemers: NW Kinderkoor, Baillies Juniorkoor en gas-kore Fokus: Viering van koormusiek en jeugtalent #TrotsBaillie #NWKinderkoor #KinderkoorFees #KoorMusiek #OnsLeerdersSkitter #PotchKultuur #LaerskoolBailliePark

In the South African construction landscape, a hidden tax often plagues both homeowners and professional contractors: the cost of guesswork. National statistics reveal a staggering reality, as construction sites across the country frequently waste between 10% and 30% of materials due to poor planning and inaccurate ordering. Image(Facebook) : Build It Potchefstroom This May, Build it Potchefstroom is highlighting the technical services designed to eliminate this waste. By moving beyond the traditional retail model, the store provides a suite of expert services that ensure projects are executed with precision from the very first day. The We Know Your Project philosophy shifts the focus from merely selling materials to providing the professional backbone required for a successful build. The Service You Didn’t Know You Needed Most builders understand the importance of quality tools, yet the most vital tools at Build it Potchefstroom are not found in the aisles, but behind the service counter. The store offers specialized Plan Reading and Materials Quantification services that bridge the gap between a blueprint and a finished structure. Instead of a customer wandering the aisles and estimating their needs, the Build it experts analyze technical drawings to provide an itemized breakdown of requirements. This process involves calculating the exact volume of aggregates for foundations, the precise number of bricks needed (accounting for standard breakage), and the specific timber spans required to meet SABS safety standards. This scientific approach to procurement ensures that customers get it right the first time, preventing the "buy and hope" cycle that so often leads to budget overruns. Image(Facebook) : Build It Potchefstroom Expert Guidance for Complex Decisions The staff at Build it Potchefstroom function as technical consultants rather than just sales assistants. They are equipped to answer the critical questions that determine the longevity of a build: On Flooring: For a 50sqm domestic slab, the team calculates the exact bag count of cement based on the required MPa strength and slab thickness, ensuring the foundation is neither weak nor unnecessarily expensive. On Roofing: When choosing between IBR and Corrugated sheeting, the experts advise based on the roof’s pitch and local weather patterns, ensuring the chosen profile provides optimal drainage and durability. Image(Facebook) : Build It Potchefstroom Winter Home Maintenance: A Seasonal Necessity As the May chill settles over the North West, Build it Potchefstroom is also prioritizing preventative maintenance. To help local residents avoid costly emergency repairs during the winter months, the team recommends five essential checks: Geyser Efficiency: Installing thermal blankets and pipe insulation to combat the plummeting evening temperatures. Roof Integrity: Inspecting for cracked tiles or compromised flashing before the spring rains arrive. Draught Prevention: Utilizing weather strips on doors and windows to retain heat. Gutter Maintenance: Clearing autumn debris to prevent moisture buildup against the roofline. Damp-Proofing: Applying treatments during the dry season to ensure maximum product adhesion. The Smarter Way to Build For the contractor whose reputation depends on efficiency, and the homeowner whose life savings are on the line, Build it Potchefstroom offers more than just hardware. They offer the certainty that comes with professional quantification and expert advice. The message for May is clear: Don't guess. Ask Build it. By starting a project at the expert counter, builders ensure that every Rand spent is a Rand invested directly into the value of their property. We know your project ,because together, Potchefstroom builds better. Image(Facebook) : Build It Potchefstroom Build It Information Office: 018-297-6608 Mobile: 083-303-6865 WhatsApp: 083-303-6865 E-mail: marketing@potchbuildit.com Address : 46 Wolmarans Street, Potchefstroom, South Africa