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27 January 2010
FIVE DIE IN CRASH
In a horrific crash on Sunday night on the Dalton road, five people were killed, six seriously injured, and five slightly injured in a collision between a bus and a tipper truck. All those killed and seriously injured were on the tipper truck the driver of which was also killed. The accident occured in the vicinity of EC Charcoal factory at about 6.15 p.m.
Of the 44 passengers travelling on the fully laden bus just five of the passengers sustained minor injuries.
Dalton and Pietermaritzburg Police attended the accident - the injured were brought to Greytown Hospital
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PROTECT WOMEN AGAINST RAPE
South Africa sadly has one of the highest incidences of rape affecting young, old, male and female. There are many organisations and individuals out there to assist the victims. One of the most high profile individuals is the incredible rape survivor Jes Foord who has turned her negative experience into something positive for other survivors stating “I want to educate people and help them realize that you can have a life after rape.”
To assist in this regard Jes has formed “POWAR” (Protect Our Women Against Rape)-an organisation which will set up one stop trauma centres as a refuge for rape and abuse survivors ensuring the after rape process is as quick and painless as possible.
This positive and open approach is promoted by Jes who has become one of the most sought after motivational speakers in KZN. Greytown is very fortunate in that she will speak here on Friday 26th February at the Greytown Country Club at 6.30 p.m. - it has been organised by St Theodore’s Catholic Church. Please diarise the date now -this is a talk not to be missed!
Jes has indicated that she is available to talk to schools that day - there is a cost and for further information on any asprects of the above please contact Julie Cotterrell on 082 416 9166 082 416 9166 or Cheryl Maghie on 073 486 875
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WATERLESS WEEKENDS...UP TO YOU!
Greytown is in the throes of a water crisis and this fact has to be admitted to and accepted by each and every resident. This is the message coming over loud and clear from Greytown Uthukela Manager “waterman” Trevor Rajnarain together with Umvoti Water Conservation committee member Brian Walker.
Because no-one reported a burst pipe literally spewing thousands of litres of precious water down Voortrekker Street Greytown and Enhlalakahle residents were deprived of water for ten hours. Here’s hoping this is not going to become a regular occurence which it could do if water consumers do not respond to the requests not to waste water. In a statement to the Greytown Gazette on Monday Trevor Rajnarain reports;
“There was a burst pipe in Voortrekker street during the course of Saturday night. The water ran undetected during the night and by morning the reservoir levels at the Greytown water plant were below the 300mm mark. As a result of this, large portions of Greytown and Enhalakhale were without water. The burst pipe was discovered after a search was launched by UTW staff, and immediately isolated and fixed. With the plant running at maximum production throughout Sunday, the recovery rate of the system was very slow because demand was very high. (It was a scorching hot day)
It would have taken several days before the reservoirs would fill up again, and so it was decided to shut off the supply overnight on Sunday in order to boost reservoir levels .
At 6 pm all supply valves were closed. This allowed reservoir to pick up rapidly. From 2am onwards on Monday morning, valves were gradually opened and the reticulation network filled. By 6 am everyone had water again, albeit dirty water. The dirty water was caused when the pipes refilled, which causes sediment at the bottom of pipes to be agitated. The dirty water passed after a few minutes of use.
This incident is an eye opener for everyone living in Greytown, that there is indeed a water crisis. Unless demand can be reduced, we will regularly face water shortages.
Uthukela Water will be forced to implement a program of isolating areas, or the whole town if necessary, in order to protect reservoir levels.
Residents are encouraged to use water sparingly, fix all leaking taps and toilets, and to please report burst pipes and leaks to Uthukela Water call center on 086 014 4144 086 014 4144 or the 911 ops Centre on 033 417 2911 033 417 2911 as soon as they are detected.”
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COTS AND PRAMS NEEDED PLEASE
Five babies are being cared for and homed at Khayalami Children’s Village -three of whom are expected this week. These babies have been abandoned by their mothers and families but are now being given a chance to grow up in a loving environment. But please can anyone out there assist with the provision of two cots, baby clothing etc.
With 35 children in all being looked after the Khayalami personnel are kept busy-their lives would be made a bit easier , particularly with the toddlers through the donation of prams - three in all would be much appreciated. Also on the wish list - a double bed.
If anyone can assist please phone Mirjam Holst on 082 6611 505 or 082 6611 505 or drop off at the Greytown Gazette offices.
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ALL UMVOTI CANOEISTS FINISH THE DUSI!
Twenty five Umvoti Canoe Club members were among the just under 1700 canoeists in this year’s Dusi marathon which started on Thursday 21st at Pietermaritzburg’s Camps Drift and finished 120 kms later on Saturday 23rd at Durban’s Blue Lagoon.
All Umvoti paddlers crossed the finishing line.
Greg Minnaar in his first Dusi, paddling with Sven Bruss finished in a creditable 65th position (Greg is currently the downhill mountain bike world champion).
After many years absence from paddling Steve Stamp showed he still has what it takes finishing with his partner Robert Kamhoot 213 overall. Some 20 years ago Steve was a Top-10 Dusi finisher.
Damien O’Sullivan, in his first Dusi, teamed up with dad Patrick to ensure that the old man completed his 12th Dusi without incident -they finished 229 overall.
Sean O’Sullivan was the first Umvoti paddler to finish in a K1 (single canoe) in position 355 overall and 13th K1.
The other Dusi first timers were Roxanne van der Walt, David Launder, Clive Mundow, Karien van Tonder, David le Roux, Grant Truter and Gareth Phillips.
Congratulations to all of you!
Umvoti Results ( club members and non members)
Miles March and partner Pos 43 Time 9h14,59.
Greg Minnaar and Sven Bruss Pos 65 Time 9h35,59.
Kate March and partner Pos 92 Time 10h03,18.
Nikky Irvine and partner Pos 113 Time 10h22,24.
Steve Stamp and partner Pos 213 Time 11h26,53.
Patrick and Damien O’Sullivan Pos 229 Time 11h32,31.
Craig Behrens and Roxanne vd Walt Pos 363 Time 12h30,48.
Antony Jarvie and Jean du Toit Pos 371 Time 12h34,45.
Sean O’Sullivan Pos 355 Time 12h38,44.
Adrian Chaning-Pearce and Dave Launder Pos 391 Time 12h39,39.
Andrew du Plessis and partner Pos 416 Time 12h49,37.
Richard Morby-Smith and Clive Mundow Pos 419 Time 12h51,30.
Matthew Crowe and Karien van Tonder Pos 441 Time 12h58,42.
Bruce McDonald and partner Pos 464 Time 13h08,08
Ed Barry and Mark vd. Merwe Pos 521 Time 13h30,45.
Alan and Esther vd. Merwe Pos 557 Time 13h47,24.
Caroline Minnaar and partner Pos 571 Time 13h51,58.
David le Roux and Grant Truter Pos 583 Time 14h00,09.
Nick and Fuzz Goble Pos 594 Time 14h07,58.
Gregg and Gareth Phillips Pos 612 Time 14h15,14.
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Lets fight crime together
Police cannot effectively investigate crime without the support and participation of witnesses. Crime is never committed in isolation although criminals might think so. Anyone who has any information about illegal activity or suspected criminals relating to crime any where in South Africa can help the Police by submitting their anonymous tip to Crime Stop ( 08600 10111 08600 10111 ).
Members of the public are the eyes and ears of the Police. If you know about a crime that is going to happen or have information about a crime that has been committed, please submit your anonymous tip.
Give the Police the information about suspected criminals – people who you are certain have been involved in murder, rape, child abuse, hijacking, robbery, fraud, dealing in stolen goods, drugs ...any crime.
Please phone Crime Stop call centre at 08600 10111 08600 10111 if you would like to speak to an investigator.
Every piece of information is important, it may seem insignificant to you but it could prove vital to the investigation, arrest and prosecution of criminals. Sharing crime information online protects your identity with complete security.
Just tell us what you know, not who you are: “LET US FIGHT CRIME TOGETHER”.
Or send in an anonymous report with full details of crime committed and suspect particulars to the Station Commander Greytown: Private Bag X 5565, Greytown 3250.
Further information from Superintendent
S P Maphalala ,Station Commander Greytown SAP -telephone 033 413 9017 033 413 9017 ; 082 556 8259 082 556 8259 or fax 033 417 1109
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ST CATHRYN’S NEWS
Some of our St Cathryn's players went to play in Greytown this past Sunday in Jens Jug, and they enjoyed themselves. For some of the ladies, this was their first competition and was a fun experience for them. Thank you to the Mason Family and Greytown for hosting our members.
On Saturday 30 January , we will be playing our first Farmers Agri-Care Monthly Mug, from 10h30 onwards. Visitors are welcome to join us.
To book please phone Piet 033 4441945 033 4441945 or 083 269 1661 083 269 1661 .
Paul and Tanya are serving Sunday Lunch every Sunday so please phone them to book. 084 5966 292 084 5966 292 .
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GARDEN CLUB -PASSIONATE ABOUT DESIGN
Interesting theme for the first meeting in 2010 of Greytown Garden Club is “New Ideas for Old Gardens” -guest speaker is Lindsay Grey, principal of the School of Garden Design.
Design is Lindsay’s passion and she feels fortunate to be in a position to influence her students to garden wisely, using predominantly indigenous plants and to develop a love and understanding of nature. In her talk to garden club Lindsay will present new ideas to give your garden a “spring cleaning” as we go into Autumn!
Date for what promises to be an interesting and entertaining meeting is Tuesday 9th February at 9 for 9.30. Venue for the meeting is Fairfield Estate, home of James and Pauline Crowe, (turn left just after the Seven Oaks Garage on the Pietermaritzburg Road) Please note it is not... at The Country Nursery as on program... remember to bring chairs and as always, guests very welcome.
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JANUARY GNOMING IN THE GARDEN
Happy New year to all Greytown Gazette readers and may the New Year bring lots of rain and perfect gardening conditions.
Impossible to have but we can have wish lists. My wish list is for a Gnoming Garden, where the little creatures can hide under the trees and shrubs to cool off during the afternoon sun.
My little garden now has a bit of grass, 30 roses planted in a very small area, with a fence round them to keep off the duikers. The latter are quite tame and very fat and loved by us all but in their place!
Indigenous is the buzz word here and this gnome knows nothing but I am trying very hard in my twilight years to learn.
I have discovered the wonderful Bauhinia which is flowering in one garden and really is beautiful with its wonderful bright orange flowers.
I need to get shade to the back of the garden , so I am driving people mad gleaning information from them on what to plant. I am converting quite rapidly to the Indigenous but I hope to grow exotics amongst the “locals”.
This month has been and will continue to be very hot, so please keep up the mulching. Top dress your flowers and vegetables with generous applications of Accelerator or L.A.N.
I have discovered a local product called Boost It which is being produced near here which is a compost made from worms, once you put it down you must not apply chemical fertilizers or you will destroy the worms... so not only is the Gnome going along the Indigenous way but the organic way also... Maybe I will help a little with Global Warming! I am quite sure the local Wizzard Worms can supply similar. My roses and ground covers are looking very good on it so far.
Watering is so important now but please only water in the evenings to save evaporation.
Start sowing seeds for autumn planting such as poppies, pansies and any other spring flowering flowers.You can also dig a trench and compost it , for Sweet Peas that can be planted in the next few weeks.
Vegetables must be planted now... beetroot, cabbage, broccoli, dwarf beans. There is lots of time for another crop.
Watch out for snails and continue to spray your roses. Always add a foliar feed to the spray like Worm Wee or Nitrasol. You can spray these foliar feeds throughout your garden if you want really healthy plants.
January is a good time to give your roses a light pruning thus encouraging new growth for the Autumn flush.
Happy Gardening and may 2010 be a Bumper Season.
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D A COUNCILLOR GIVEN CORRECT INFO!
Further to a query raised by D A Councillor Paul Buss in last week’s Greytown Gazette on the advertising of indigent applications he again contacted the Greytown Gazette and stated that he had raised the question of the list being published twice and had been told by the Municipality officials that “the adverts in the second publication were done free of charge!”
Councillor Buss said that on further investigation however it had been definitely established that the Municipality had in fact paid almost R43 000.00 for this duplication of information.
Councillor Buss went on to say “this is an absolute waste of all Umvoti resident’s hard earned money.” In discussing the above with the Speaker on Monday, Councillor Buss said that the Speaker had told him that one of the Municipal HOD’s would contact him to explain why he was told the ads were free, when in fact they were not.
At the time of going to press the Councillor had not been contacted.
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AMNESTY FOR FIREARMS
Owners of licenced firearms are asked to note the following announcement:
”The Minister of Police declare Amnesty 2010 commencing 11th January to10- to 11th April 2010. The amnesty is not restricted to unlawful possession of firearms but includes licenced firearms which licene holders would want to hand in for destruction, silencers as well as explosives, firearm parts and ammunitions.”
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20 January 2010
POLICE DETERMINED TO DESTROY DAGGA
It's the dagga season again and the message from Greytown Police is loud and clear - dagga crops will be destroyed.
A relatively small amount was destroyed at the beginning of the month in Khomba Road by Greytown Police with Greytown Police Chief, Superintendent Mapalala.
Thanks to the combination of rain and sunshine there is a bumper crop of dagga flourishing throughout the town; in squatter camps and in Enhlalakahle.
In an interview with the Greytown Gazette Inspector Mnyandu he asked the Greytown Gazette to issue a warning to all growing dagga that the Police would be conducting raids to destroy dagga by spraying using a pesticide that would poison and kill off not only the dagga but also any other plants.
A lot of the marijuana is being grown in between rows of mealie - this means, the Inspector said, that the spray will not only kill off the dagga but also food crops. He therefore urged all those growing dagga in between their food crops to remove it otherwise they would lose everything.
For further information please contact Inspector Mnyandu on 072 662 9087.
Some facts about dagga - South Africa is one of the largest dagga producing countries in the world and is primarily cultivated in KZN and the Eastern Cape -known as green gold as it is a primary source of income for thousands.
In 1928 the cultivation of dagga was prohibited in South Africa.
According to the National Narcotics Control Board there is no medicinal use that is recognised in any country and no scientific evidence that dagga as such has any medicinal pruposes that have not been substituted by safer drugs.
Prices on the streets vary depending on the quality and availability: On the smuggling front a compressed block weighing between 8 and 14 kg could get up to R1 600 Overseas a compressed 1 kg block goes for R100 . On the streets here general price is R1 per gram.
Its botanical name is Cannabis sativa. Street names include”marijuana; zol; skyf; joint; weed grass; shit; pot; boom; ganja; dope; hash; smoke; hemp; green gold.
No matter what it is called, the growing and using of dagga must be regarded with zero tolerance.
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SATURDAY NIGHT SHOOTING IN PINE STREET PUB
Just before midnight on Saturday, three shots were heard by a policeman on duty at the Charge office in Pine Street and soon thereafter a man rushed into the Police station to report a shooting at the Plough Hotel bar.
Police personnel went immediately and found a body lying on the pavement almost in the doorway of the bar. He was identified as Welcome Dhlomo, a driver at Lewis Stores in Greytown. Welcome was covered in blood - as the post mortem had not been carried out at the time of going to press the Police were unable to say how many times he had been shot.
Police then received information that the dead man had actually been shot whilst inside the bar. They attempted to go inside but the employees had locked the door and refused to open it.
However evenutally it was opened three of the bar’s employees were arrested on charges of attempting to defeat the ends of justice. The three were due to appear in the Greytown Magistrate’s Court on Tuesday on these charges.
Greytown Police arrested two men on Monday on charges of the murder of Welcome Dhlomo.
It is reported that the two are security guards who worked for the Plough Hotel bar where it is alleged they also acted as “bouncers”. There had been about fifty people in the bar on Saturday night
They were due to appear in Greytown Magistrate’s Court on Tuesday.
Investigating Officer Inspector Sithembiso Zwane told the Greytown Gazette that the Police would oppose any application for bail for the two being charged with murder.
Anyone with any information is asked to contact the Investigating Officer on 083 534 3081. Inspector Zwane has given the assurance that any information will be handled on a confidential basis
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110TH ANNIVERSARY OF ANGLO BOER WAR
An international history conference to commemorate the 110th anniversary of the Anglo-Boer war will take place from 25th to 27th January at Platrand Lodge, on the slopes of the historic Wagon Hill battlefield, Ladysmith - the site of the bloody battle on 6th January 1900 for control of Ladysmith.
On the Saturday and Sunday organised tours to the various battlefields will take place. There is a line up of 25 speakers during the conference presenting various aspects of the Anglo Boer war. Guest speaker at the gala dinner on the Monday night will be the Chief of Defence Reserves in the SANDF, Major General Roy Anderson.
Many of the Regiments that opposed one another in the Colony of Natal during the War now form part of the SANDF Reserve Forces and include the Natal Field Artillery, the Transvaalse Staatsartillerie, the Vrystaatse Artillerie Regiment, the Natal Mounted Rifles, the Umvoti Mounted Rifles, the Light Horse Regiment, the Natal Carbineers, the Durban Light Infantry, 1 Medical Battalion Group, 15 Maintenance Unit.
These and many other Reserve Force Regiments from other Provinces were welded together after Unification to form the Citizen Force component of the South African Defence Force.
Further details about the Conference from the following:
Ken Gillings – telephone 031 702 4828 / 083 654 5880 or e-mail ken.gillings@mweb.co.za
Dr Eugene Campher or Mrs Lera Campher – telephone 036 631 2839 / 082 801 6524 or e-mail camphere@telkomsa.net
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DUSI CANOE MARATHON
Regarded as one of the toughest and most elite canoe race the Dusi starts on Thursday 21st and ends on Saturday 23rd January.
Founder Ian Player”s comment sums it up: ‘No man who has done the 110 gruelling miles can ever be the same again. The memory of the rapids, the steep hills and torturous paths, the aching backs and dry mouths, the burning sun and cold mist and rain, will forever remain in the mind.”
To all the Umvoti canoeists (and the others) taking part in this challenging epic test of endurance - good luck and a good finish!
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NEW ACTING MUNICIPAL MANAGER AT UMVOTI
In response to a request from the Greytown Gazette as to the appointment of Chief Financial officer, Mr Sipho Ndabandaba as acting Municipal Manager the following press release has been issued by Mr Ndabandaba:
“The municipality hereby wish to inform all Umvoti Municipality residents of the appointment of new Acting Municipal Manager, Mr. Sipho B Ndabandaba, for the period of three months with effect from 13 January 2010 in terms of Recess Executive Committee resolution taken on the 23th December 2009, this is as a result of a council resolution taken on the 30th of September 2009 that the acting Municipal Manager will be appointed on a three months rotation basis.
On behalf of the municipal administration we wish to assure an unbiased and professional service to all your needs, with your professional and non-political approach bearing in mind that all residents deserves equal treatment regardless of their colour, culture, politics, religion, health status or any discriminatory treatment we are certain to serve you professionally as foot soldiers of Umvoti Municipal Council.
I would like to remind all residents to participate in the upcoming IDP/Budget road shows so we can work together to plan for 2010/2011 financial year. On the 29th January 2010 we will be tabling our Draft Annual Report as well as Unqualified Audit Report to council in terms of applicable legislation where members of public are invited to attend.
I therefore wish all residence a prosperous new year, 2010, a year of celebration and do not forget to support our national team (Bafana Bafana) by wearing their colors or any local sports team jersey on every Fridays until the World Cup in June this year.”
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READERS WRITE WHY A CONFIDENTIAL REPORT?
Sir,
I noted with interest that the Umvoti Municipality has placed a Notice of the Council Meeting for the tabling of THE AUDIT REPORT for 2008/2009 in the Greytown Gazette of 13 January 2010.
What concerns me, there appears a NOTE at the foot of the notice declaring “FINAL AUDIT REPORT IS CONFIDENTIAL AND THEREFORE WILL NOT BE MADE PUBLIC.”
Surely, ratepayers are considered “shareholders” in the Municipality, and are therefore at liberty to view the Annual Financial Statements including the Auditors Report, in terms of the “Promotion of Access to Information Act.”
In the interests of transparency, stakeholders must be permitted to know whether the finances of the Umvoti Municipality have been diligently administered by those who have been entrusted with the management thereof!
K.D. Simpson
(96 Scott Street Greytown)
EDITOR’S NOTE:
The editor queried this with the Umvoti CFO telephonically who stated that the AG’s office had informed him that until the annual Municipal report was signed by the AG the audit report was considered as draft.
Hopefully this will be accomplished by the public meeting called for Thursday 28th January at 10 a.m. in the Council Chambers.
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DA CONCERN AT INDIGENT INCOMES
Sir,
The letter “Umvoti Fan” refers.
The D.A. has to inform the residents of Umvoti that the publication referred to is not a Municipal publication although the content definitely gives that impression (more than half the pages are Municipal related). Matters of concern I have raised with Management with regards to the publication are :
- Residents who applied for Indigent support had their incomes published -this is an invasion of privacy as this is very personal information. I sincerely hope that there are no legal repercussions in this regard from any of the applicants concerned.
- Why was it necessary to incur additional costs by repeating the 700 names over 9 pages in a publication that is distributed at the Municipality and in a limited number of outlets in town -and was issued, I understand one day before deadline.
Mind you I was very amused to hear that visitors to St Anne’s Hospital in Pietermaritzburg said copies were on display there as well as one of the Durban Freeway petrol stations -I am sure that many of the indigent collected their copies there!
I have queried this unnecessary publication with the Speaker and Municipality but am still awaiting response.
Councillor P.Buss
D.A.
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POSITIVE APPROACH FOR PRISONERS
There is a positive vibe at the Department of Correctional Services Greytown thanks to the new acting head of the Unit Mr Michael Z. Mzila who has been transferred from Pomeroy to Greytown.
In an interview with the Greytown Gazette he said that the inmates had been given a Christmas party and expressed his thanks to Umvoti deputy Mayor, Councillor Zondi; Min Cash and staff of the Department of Correctional Services.
Mr Mzila said he would like to remind the community that although those serving sentences were doing so because they had committed a crime they needed to be given a second chance . It was important that they were given an opportunity to improve their lives, through obtaining skills and education so that when they were released they could become responsible members of society and not turn back to crime or encourage others to take up crime.
However for this to be achieved the assistance of stakeholders in the community was required for the teaching of skills and to give them guidelines for their future lives.
Mr Mzila expressed his appreciation to the Greytown inmates for their good behaviour over the festive season. And said in view of this the Greytown Correctional unit was opening doors for NGOs, cbos and other stakeholders to come and address and teach the offenders.
Umvoti AIDS Centre personnel were most supportive in counselling and advising the men and women on how to prevent and fight AIDS.
As part of the Community Poverty Alleviation programme, two of the Unit’s personnel Mr Dlamini and mr Khanyile were supervising a vegetable garden at the unit -surplus from which had been donated to Greytown Hospital and the AIDS Centre.
Anyone prepared to assist in the positive programme Mr Mzila will be carrying out is asked to contact him on 082 846 0992.
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SCHOOL INTAKE INCREASES
Greytown was abuzzing lat Wednesday as hundreds of youngsters started or continued their school careers as the public schools opened their doors for the first term. The tears were few and far between -the majority were happy to be back with friends or be making that first big step into an exciting and challenging new world
Judging from the numbers given to the Greytown Gazette there is a definite increase at most of the schools this year.
Indlovana Primary School which has the most students with an intake of 1012 also has a waiting list of 150 at present and that number is expected to increase.
Next highest intake is Greytown Secondary which now has one thousand pupils -the headmaster announced that the matric pass rate for 2009 had been a good 87.9%.
Buhlebuyeza High School which will still register students this week had 911 while Greytown Primary School’s intake stood at 875 and Tholinhlanhla Primary School had registered 800 and was expecting more.
Greytown Junior School was busy withy 445 students and Greytown High School with ???
.Wembley College, which opens this week has 260 ;Hermannsburg School which opened on Monday has over 200 and St David's 133 -17 up on last year.
Here’s wishing all the students and their teachers a year filled with the joy of learning, friendships, discipline and everything of the best!
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Greytown Country Club news
Wednesday Golf was won by Richard Chiazzari while Rudolf Aulfes was the runner up.
On Friday evening Mrs PJ van der Merwe lost out on the attendance draw prize money with the result that there is R500 for the taking at the next draw on 22 January.
The Club will be hosting the 20th anniversary of the Jens Jug on Sunday 24 January. Please support this event, entries are still open. The R140 entry fee includes halftime refreshments and lunch. Shotgun start at 8.30am. There are lots of wonderful prizes to be won, so don’t miss out.
On Saturday 13 February we will be celebrating Valentines Day the old fashioned way with great music, food, flowers, chocolates and everything else that’s a sign of LOVE. Gents, if you would like to score points with the special lady in your life, you have to book your place at the Greytown Country Club. To avoid disappointment phone Elmarie on 033 4172441 or Joanne on 072 330 3140.
Dates to diarise:
24 Jan - Jens Jug
6 Feb - Mascor Monthly Mug
13 Feb – Valentines Day Dinner & Dance
20 Feb – Hackers’ Day
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FIREARM CLEAN UP IN KRANSKOP
Fourteen illegal firearms were recovered and four arrests made by Kranskop Police personnel during the festive season. Superintendent Caroline Minnaar , Kranskop Police Chief, told the Greytown Gazette that thanks to the commitment of the Police members and the co-operation of the public there had been no serious crimes in the greater Kranskop area.
The Police had carried out special duties in Makabeleni area over New Year and four unlicensed firearms, 30 live rounds and three arrests had been made in regard to the illegal possession of firearms.
Continuing the special duties in the Kranskop area, more illegal firearms had been recovered - bringing the total to 14.
One of the firearms recovered was an LM6 assault rifle which was found to be linked to a murder in Sydenham -and the man in possession of this illegal weapon was arrested in connection with the murder.
Superintendent Minnaar said that no member of the Kranskop Police team had been granted leave over the festive season which meant that the area was well policed. In response to this the community, who enjoyed the dramatic decrease in violence, kept the Police informed of any suspicious activities.
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13 January 2010
GREYTOWN STATION STRIPPED
Over the past few months vandals have been systematically stripping the various buildings which form part of the Greytown Railway Station complex. In terms of Heritage any building over 60 years old cannot be altered or demolished without submitting an application for a permit to undertake such alterations or demolition.
Obviously in this case, and also Greytown’s other wellknown vandalised building, the UMR Hall, no-one is the slightest bit concerned about such application.
Last year, Transnet Freight Rail, received an application from a developer for the proposed developerment of retail and related facilities at Greytown Station.
Transnet replied that it formed part of the secondary rail network and it was government’s aim to revitalize this secondary network in order to stimulate rural rail transport as well as local economic development. Therefore retail development of the station boded well with this broader government strategy.
It appeared from the plans submitted that the development would not infringe on the branch line
At its meeting in December the proposed development and Transnet’s reply was considered by Exco which had no objection to the proposed development but requested that the acting Municipal Manager investigate:
Ownership of land;
railway sidings and buildings and houses in the station.
The developer is planning to build a shopping mall in this area.
This two photograph of the Greytown Station main building shows the vandalisation and destruction which has been taking place. The building qualifies as a heritage site being 109 years old.
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FROM THE COURTS
The New Year got off to a good start on Saturday with seventeen players turning to play tennis. The Club would like to invite tennis players to take out their rackets and get into the habit of turning up at the courts every Saturday to play. Bring the youngsters along, the little ones enjoy sliding down the bank , riding their bicycles and meeting old and new friends.
High school scholars are welcome to join the adult players. After some good exercise everybody gets together for a sundowner and a chit chat.
Dates for the popular four-a –side fun tournament and the Roley Hills Men’s doubles tournament will be published soon.
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2010 STARTS WITH A WATER PROBLEM!
Sales of bottled mineral water soared in Greytown over the past few weeks as some residents turned on taps to muddy and in some instances smelly water. In Enhlalakahle a number of residents were totally waterless. Unfortunately according to information received a couple of the more militant were threatening to shoot the meter readers even though the lack of, condition of and look of Greytown water has absolutely nothing whatsoever to do with the meter readers
A spokesman for the Umvoti Water Consumer Committee told the Greytown Gazette that:
”Due to ongoing problems with the two clarifiers at the water works, there have been reports of dirty and smelly water from all areas of Greytown.
This past week the engineers have been working on replacing and repairing parts of the drive mechanism in the clarifiers, which has already shown an improvement in the water quality.
We apologise for this unfortunate situation, and appeal to our water consumers to bear with us and uThukela Water, as we persevere to stabilise the water quality situation. “
uThukela Water Customer Care officer in Greytown, Roshnee Maharaj told the Greytown Gazette that she had received a number of telephonic complaints last week from consumers about dirty or muddy water and smelly water.
Here’s hoping that this was just a beginning of the new year glitch and that from now on Greytown water consumers will have a non stop supply of sparkling clear and good tasting water!
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MIGHTY MEN CONFERENCE 2010
An early reminder that the seventh Mighty Men Conference is to take place at Shalom on the 16th to 18th April. In a press release issued last week, Shalom’s Angus Buchan said that this will be the last MMc and “I am expecting no less than 400 000 men” This might sound almost unbelievable but already there has been a tremendously positive feedback.
In response to a query as to why this would be the last MMC Angus said:
” We believe that number seven is a significant number in God’s arithmetic. We believe that the mission has been completed. Men are heading up their households now, taking authority in their business centers, are meeting together all over the nation, in fact all over the world. I’m actually on my way to Ireland in June and we are very excited as the men are getting together from the Southern and Northern parts of Ireland to be together at that time. “
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READERS WRITE WHY?
Sir,
As a regular visitor to my family in Umvoti every year from Europe I look forward to catching up on the year’s activities through your excellent, well written and factual newspaper. As always I enjoy your festive end of year issue involving so many of the people of this wonderful part of South Africa.
This Christmas I was somewhat amazed and concerned to see that Umvoti Municipality now has its own newspaper, which I gather is available at the Town offices and one supermarket in town (where I acquired a copy). With due respect to the honorable Mayor and his Council, which I am told is made up of IFP, ANC and DA, I would suggest that the money that the Council is spending on its own paper, would be put to much better use in fixing the potholes, the terrible tasting water, the filth, the broken pavements etc.etc Is the Mayor and his full Council perhaps trying to get back at your esteemed paper for publishing facts in regard to service delivery, infrastructure etc.?
I am living overseas in a town, much smaller than Greytown and its surrounds, I find it very sad to compare my home town which is run efficiently, economically and with no potholes or filth with what is happening in this what used to be and still could be beautiful town of Greytown.
I am aware of the ruling that writers must submit their names, and am doing so, but would request you to not use it in view of possible repercussions to my family.
A prosperous New Year to your many readers and I look forward to catching up again at the end of 2010.
Umvoti Fan
A BIG THANK YOU!
Sir
On behalf of my mother and I, we take this opportunity to thank the Greytown community for all the love and encourgement we have received over the past 3 months.
To all our friends and supporters our heartfelt htanks for keeping us in your prayers, while your generosity over the Festive season is appreciated beyond words.
To Dr Roodt and his staff, your kindess and cheerful support was a lifeline. Thank you.
Finally to all customers my customers, I thank you for your patience while I have been out of action.
I am however now back on my feet.
Bless you all.
Craig and Pat Harris.
BAN LOUD BANG FIREWORKS
Sir,
As a result of the number of very large very loud big explosive fireworks let off in Greytown to celebrate the New Year we lost seven of our prized champion racing pigeons. The noise was so intense and frightening that these seven birds died of heart attacks.
Fireworks, patricularly the large loud explosives should be banned.
P.J.Haggard
GREEN LIGHT FOR GREYTOWN HOSPITAL
Its the best and most positive kickstart to 2010 for Umvoti residents. The
Department of Health has approved the application from PG Mavundla for the
development of a private hospital facility , subject to certain criteria.
This means that many residents who were considering retiring elsewhere
because of lack of medical facilities, need not relocate thanks to the
initiative shown by Mr P.G. Mavundla
Head of the Department Dr S.M. Zungu informed Mr Mavundla in a letter dated
4th Decembe , in terms of the regulations, the following had been approved
for the Greytown facility to be built:
30 medical/surgical beds;
7 paediatric beds;
2 ICU beds;
4 high care and
7 day beds.
one prep room;
two first stage rooms;
two delivery rooms;
8 maternity beds;
two neonatal ICU.
Two general theatres and
one minor theatre.
As reported in June last year in the Greytown Gazette the Umvoti community hospital committee had commissioned an indepth study to establish what private health care facility would be sutainable for Greytown - this study was undertaken by
Stragetic Healthcare management .
It was established that a 50 bed facility would be feasible and financially sustainable as phase 1 of the project.
Greytown has the potential for between 47 and 117 private beds .
In an interviw with the Greytown Gazette Mr Mavundla expressed his delight at the go ahead for the hospital which he said would be of great benefit not only to residents but also to people wanting to move to Greytown for bsuiness, family or retirement reasons. In addition to the facilities listed above, there will be a helicopter pad. The Pine Street building has been designed for future vertical expansion , should the need arise.
There will also be consulting suites for doctors and specialist’s suites in the building.
In response to a frequent question which has been asked since excavation on the site begun, Mr Mavundla said that parking would be in the basement as well as the ground floor.
The Greytown Gazette will keep its readers updated as information comes to hand on the progress of this very important development for Umvoti
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EVELYN NEWMARCH
Family and friends were saddened at the news of the death of Evelyn Newmarch on Monday 10th January at St Annes Pietermaritzburg.
Over the past years Evelyn bravely and positively fought cancer .She never lost hope or the belief that she would be cured of the illness .
Her positive approach and natural warmth in talking to young and old inspired many with similar problems whom she met with during treatments over the years.
Evelyn would have celebrated her 71st birthday next week.
A funeral service for Evelyn will be held on Friday 15th January at 11.30 a.m. in St James Church, Greytown.
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ST CATHRYN'S NEWS
The December Farmers Agri-Care Monthly mug was once again interrupted by the weather and you will see this in the results. The score reflects the shortened competition and the results are of only the 13 holes which could be completed on the day.
1st : Merwin Rabe nett 44
2nd: Paul Els nett 46 ;'
3rd: Craig Cholwills nett 49
Nearest to pin 9/18 and Captains Putter : Sbonelo Khumalo.
This was followed by the AGM and Members Dinner - some important resolutions decided at this meeting are:
1. There is a new official local rule, that was proposed and seconded, about when weather interrupts any competition at St Cathryns. This rule was accepted by the meeting and a copy is up on the notice board, and members will be sent a copy with their fixture list for 2010.
2. Paul Els has been elected as our new Club Captain, after Kevin Williams has had to withdraw from Captain due to injury. Thank you for all your help and support in the past Kevin, and hope to see you back on the course soon.
Grand Prix Winner : Paul Els.
Kluver Design Golfer of the Year: Steve Nel. Steve also played in some Golf Foundation Competitions this holiday and won the South Coast Champs in the B Div. ( second year running).
On Sunday we played the Farmers Agri-Care Mug of Mugs in hot conditions.
1st : Merwin Rabe nett 67 o.c.o
2nd: Liekie Steyn
3rd: Barry Oehme nett 68.
.
Please support : “ Jen’s Jug “ to be played in Greytown Sunday 24th January - please contact the Gtn Club to enter.Farmers Agri-Care Monthly Mug will be Saturday 30 January. To enter please contact Piet on 033 4441945 or 083 269 1661.
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GREYTOWN COUNTRY CLUB NEWS
The “Bring and Take” golf day played on 19 December 2009 was won by D Brown (41 points), S Bondesio took second place on 38 points with B Haasbroek coming in third on 37 points.
M Caldicott won the Wednesday Golf on both 30 December 2009 and 6 January 2010.
AJ Olwage lost out on the attendance draw prize money. The next draw is scheduled for Friday 15 January at 6.30pm; there is R400 in the jackpot. Remember, you can only win when you attend. We hope to see all of our members back at the Club on Friday evening.
We would like to welcome back all our members, we hope that all of you had a great holiday and are ready to go back to school\work soon.
We would like to encourage all our golfers to enter the JENS JUG 20th Anniversary tournament to be played on Sunday 24 January. The entry forms are up on the notice board at the Club, alternatively call 033 417 2441. The shotgun start is at 8.30am and the tournament takes a mixed better ball format. The R140 entry fee includes your green fees, tea and lunch.
Please take note that our AGM will take place in March (date to be confirmed). Special request that members start considering nominations for the 2010 management committee.
Dates to diarise:
Mascor Monthly Mug - 6 February
Hackers’ Day - 20 February
ebds
Outstanding Hermannsburg results
Again a year of outstanding matric results from Hermannsburg school with a 100% pass rate and all 20 candidates passing with a Bachelor Degree BD pass with six achieving an “A” aggregate.
Leading the school, Ralf Kuesel, headboy and Dux last year , who obtained seven A’s together with an amazing 99% for his final matric maths exam which put him in the top 1% of the IEB’s core maths contingent!
The IEB further commended two more of the candidates -Byron Bure who was in the top 1% in maths literacy and Annelize Roerhrs was also given a special mention by the IEB for being in the top 1%
in the German second additional language exam.
A summary of the outstanding results as follwos: Six “A” aggregates; 10 “B” aggregates and 4 “C” aggregates.
Hermannsburg School principal, Mrs Ute Brand expressed her delight at the results and congratulated candidates, teachers and parents on their achievments. The Hermannsburg School family congratulated all matrics in the area who passed and wished them well for the future.
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GHS...100% FOR 18TH YEAR!
Greytown High School was thrilled at the 2009 matric results which once again the School a 100% pass rate for the 18th year running.
GHS principal, Mr J. Scholtz expressed his delight at the excellent results. Of the 100% passes, 71% obtained Bachelor degree . There was one A aggregate; 15 “B’s” and 20 C’s
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SASSY SALVIAS
Salvia splendens, also known as Red Salvias, have to rank as one of the hottest flowering annuals available. It’s not just their long lasting, fiery colour that makes them so appealing as a summer bedding plant, it’s also the ease with which they grow and minimal maintenance that make them a must. With a just few trays of seedlings you can transform almost any area into a welcoming explosion of colour and charm.
Salvias enjoy plenty of direct sun, although they do grow in dappled shade areas and are not fussy about their growing conditions.
Salvias flower for long periods, through summer and can even push through into autumn if one deadheads regularly.
Information Supplied by the Bedding Plant Growers Association. Go to www.lifeisagarden.co.za for more.
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