The King Team actively making a difference 1/4 Share GK CRONJE 1 February 2022 "At this time, we would also greatly appreciate reflective vests and clothing, as it is extremely cumbersome working in the hot sun with full overalls." An enterprising and caring resident of Ermelo, Surprise “King” Makutu, has assembled a team of dedicated volunteers to tackle the deteriorating roads in Ermelo and the surrounding areas. Making use of compacted building rubble and neatly chipped and packed bricks, the King Team make the lives of motorists much easier, one pothole at a time. Their excellent workmanship with the materials that they have is nothing to be scoffed at. Speaking to Surprise at Mandela Drive in Wesselton last week, he proudly showed off the stellar work that they are doing. “We are doing the best that we can with what we have. We do the work in our own capacity, and aim to make a difference on the roads that residents use every day. However, we request donations from the community to keep up the work.” The team is highly organized, and have poinstmen directing traffic around the sites they work at. “If any business or individual would like to make a donation or has material to supply, we will greatly appreciate it. At this time, we would also greatly appreciate reflective vests and clothing, as it is extremely cumbersome working in the hot sun with full overalls. Reflective vests will also add to the safety of our initiative, as to alert road users that there are works in progress,” Surprise told the Tribune. The team also requires equipment such as spades, wheelbarrows and pickaxes, and other construction tools that can be used for road repairs, as they make do with their own scrounged equipment. Any business or individual who would like to be involved with this brilliant initiative, be it with material, tools, or even just a hot meal or cold drink, may contact Surprise on 066 422 3811. < Previous Article Next Article >

Trudi celebrated as Batho Pele winner 1/2 Share SH HATTINGH 17 November 2020 Since 2015, Trudi has received a yearly award of service excellence. Trudi van der Bank, a well known resident in Ermelo, has been invited to the Batho Pele Excellence Awards Ceremony, and awarded as best operational employee of the year. The purpose of the National Batho Pele Excellence Awards is to entrench the professionalisation of the public service, to recognize, reward and acknowledge public servants who are performing beyond their call of duty, and to encourage excellence in the public service. The ceremony took place on 30 October at the Birchwood Hotel in Boksburg. Since 2015, Trudi has received a yearly award of service excellence. “Congratulations Trudi, we are very proud of you, and keep up the excellent work.” < Previous Article Next Article >

EHS se 2020-matriekgroep vier hermerk-uitslae 1/2 Share SM HATTINGH 4 May 2021 "EHS is dankbaar vir die uitslae en vir die seën wat weereens oor die Erries uitgestort is.” Op Donderdag, 22 April,was die hermerk-uitslae van 2020 se matriek eindeksamen bekend gemaak. Hoërskool Ermelo is besonder trots op elke 2020-matriek wat met die hermerk beter uitslae verkry het. Vosjan Grey verbeter sy gemiddeld tot 86,1%, en spog nou met sewe onderskeidings. Hy het ‘n A-simbool vir Afrikaans Huistaal by gekry (80%). Hy behaal ook beter punte in Engels Eerste Addisionele Taal, Wiskunde en Lewenswetenskap. Anja Wege behaal ‘n A-simbool vir Besigheidstudies, wat haar ‘n totaal gee van drie onderskeidings. Sinethemba Shongwe en Amy Greyling kry elk een A-simbool by. Bianca Cronjé, Chad Coetzee en Gawie Diedericks het elk ‘n simbool verandering. Hoërskool Ermelo kry na die hermerk vier A-simbole by wat die totaal nou laat op 93-A’s, asook een B-simbool en een C-simbool. Die totale is nou onderskeidelik 144 en 173. “Baie geluk aan elke leerder wat na die hermerk met beter punte spog. EHS is dankbaar vir die uitslae en vir die seën wat weereens oor die Erries uitgestort is.” < Previous Article Next Article >

Sean needs your help in cancer battle 1/2 Share GK CRONJE 7 June 2022 Sean received the biopsy results, and it seems to be clear. However, there are still some tests that needs to be done, including a PET scan. Sean Duranty, a well-known and beloved in Ermelo, has had a long and hard road with his ongoing battle with cancer. Following a previous bout of treatment, Sean received the good news that his cancer was in remission. Sean received the biopsy results, and it seems to be clear. However, there are still some tests that needs to be done, including a PET scan. Although Sean has a medical aid, the unforeseen costs that are not covered is making life a little difficult at this time. Receiving treatment in Trichardt, Sean has to travel extensively to seek medical attention, and most probably has to travel to Pretoria as part of his treatment, depending on the outcome of the biopsy. Sean has told the Tribune that when he had to receive a PET scan during his previous treatment, he had to pay R5000 cash before they could assist him. Factoring in the escalating costs due to inflation, the cost of such a scan could be considerably more this time around. A group of Sean’s friends has since clubbed together and launched a support group to donate funds towards his expenses, but there is still a long road ahead which will require Sean to stretch his wallet even further. Should be biopsy return unfavorably, Sean will be subjected to another round of radiation and an extensive list of oral medication, of which all comes at considerable financial strain. Sean has told the Tribune that he hopes to receive his biopsy results during the course of the week, and will then be able to plan the way forward. During this very stressful time, Sean stated that either way, another PET scan is on the cards, as well as either an operation or another round of radiation. “Any donated amount will be greatly appreciated, and will help tremendously in covering the costs incurred during this battle. As soon as I have clarity on the situation, and what the way forward holds, I will provide an update. I would like to thank all my friends, and those who have already offered financial assistance. I really appreciate it, and appreciate the love, care and support I have received from the Ermelo community up to this point,” Sean said. If you would like to make a contribution towards Sean’s cause, you my do so via Capitec Savings, 1367673869. Sean will be consulting again with medical professionals during the course of next week to discuss the next steps. < Previous Article Next Article >

SAPS seizes R500 000 worth of contraband during bust 1/1 Share SM HATTINGH 27 July 2021 Upon investigation, them, more than 580 Heroin sachets were discovered. Police further found an undisclosed amount of cash. The three suspects, Nigerian nationals aged between 28 and 38, were immediately arrested and charged accordingly. An Intelligence Driven Operation has led to police in Mpumalanga arresting five suspects in two separate incidents, at Ermelo and Lydenburg respectively. During these operations, which were conducted on Wednesday, 21 July 2021 and Friday, 23 July 2021, police confiscated drugs to a combined estimated value of approximately R500 000. According to reports, in the first incident; members received information about suspicious illegal drug activities carried out at a certain house in Ermelo. It was further alleged that the suspects trafficked the drugs using a silver Volkswagen Polo Vivo. Members from Ermelo K9 Unit, together with their counterparts from Standerton K9 Unit, then coordinated their resources to act collectively and operationalised the information gathered. On Friday, 23 July 2021, they followed the leads and spotted the identified house, which matched the description as given. Upon their arrival at the residence, the police formations found three people busy packaging something suspicious inside the house. Upon investigation, them, more than 580 Heroin sachets were discovered. Police further found an undisclosed amount of cash, which suggests that the suspects were involved in drug dealing. The three suspects, Nigerian nationals aged between 28 and 38, were immediately arrested and charged accordingly. The trio, of which one is female, appeared before the Ermelo Magistrate's Court on Monday, 26 July 2021. Meanwhile, members from the Lydenburg K9 Unit also conducted an Intelligence Driven Operation, where they intercepted suspects who were in a planned mission to traffic bags of dagga using a Ford Ranger bakkie. This operation was carried out on Wednesday, 21 July 2021, at which police noticed and swooped down upon the mentioned bakkie which had two occupants. The astute members ordered the driver of the vehicle to halt the bakkie. This was followed by a thorough search, where nine bags with dagga were found, culminating in the driver and his crew swiftly being arrested. They both appeared before the Mashishing Magistrate Court on Thursday, 22 July 2021 where they were remanded in custody. Pat Mngomezulu (36), and Michael Molala (33), are expected at the same court next week Thursday, 29 July 2021. The Provincial Commissioner of the South African Police Service in Mpumalanga, Lieutenant General Semakaleng Manamela, has appreciated the efforts by members for their resilience in ridding the communities of drugs. “It is high time we claim back the streets from the hands of drug dealers and criminal elements. The call made by our good citizens to decisively deal with drugs in the community has been heard. We are acting with speed to close all the nets for trading in illegal drugs within the society. The public should continue to entrust us with valuable information as they can witness the positive results thereof,” said General Manamela. < Previous Article Next Article >

SAPTU against higher tax for vaccination rollout 1/1 Share GK CRONJE 26 January 2021 “Why is there such a discrepancy between the two estimates? We do not trust the government to ensure there is no corruption involved in the process." SAPTU is not in favour of taxing workers to fund the procurement and distribution of vaccines against COVID-19. According to media reports, Treasury is considering raising taxes to fund the vaccination rollout, stating explicitly that they will be the only bidders for buying the vaccine. “It is inconceivable that our government even considers raising taxes to provide an essential service,” says Adv Ben van der Walt, the general secretary of SAPTU (South African Parastatal and Tertiary Institutions Union). “While at the same time, the money thrown at SAA, the Land Bank, Eskom and any other state-owned enterprises seem to disappear into the abyss.” The Minister of Health, Mr Zweli Mkhize, already confirmed an estimated cost of R20 billion to vaccinate the entire country, but more recent rumoured estimates by Treasury put the amount at around R10 billion. “This is yet another example where the government creates distrust,” says Adv Van der Walt. “Why is there such a discrepancy between the two estimates? We do not trust the government to ensure there is no corruption involved in the process. We have too many examples proving the opposite.” “The government and department should involve the private sector to fund this expense,” he says. “Not only will the state-private sector cooperation option relieve the pressure on workers, but it will ensure oversight and transparency, contribute to logistical support and share management capacity as the South African government cannot execute this operation on its own.” < Previous Article Next Article >

Merino Mall construction moving at blistering pace 1/3 Share GK CRONJE 12 October 2021 Prospective tenants have showed immense excitement and support in the project and familiar favourites are already on board as anchor tenants. Property developers Moolman Group and Abland, the developers of the Merion Mall, don’t let grass grow under their feet. Bulk earth works for Merino Mall commenced on1 July 2021, and have progressed splendidily towards the completion date of October 2022. The development will positively impact the local economy and stimulate further growth and development, as well as enhance and supporting the town’s current infrastructure. The developers makes use of the local workforce during the construction phases, and will create long-term job opportunities for residents and businesses alike. Prospective tenants have showed immense excitement and support in the project and familiar favourites are already on board as anchor tenants. They include Checkers, Pick n Pay, Woolworths, Clicks, Crazy Plastics and Dis-Chem. Crazy Plastics and Dis-Chem being especially exciting new additions in the area. The mall will also bring stores like Crazy Plastics, Cape Union Mart, Old Khaki, Cross Trainer, Queenspark, Primark and Refinery to the Ermelo community for the first time. Truworths, Identity, Mr Price, Jet, Ackermans, Foschini, Sportscene, Totalsports, Mr Price Sport, PEP, Exact, Markham, Miladys, Tekkie Town, Studio 88, The Fix, Sheet Street, Crazy Store, Mr Price Home, Pep Home, @home, and a host of others will join the Merino Mall family. Banks will include Nedbank, Capitec and FNB. Merino Mall is set to enhance the current retail offering in Ermelo, and will bring convenience, value and pride to the town’s visitors, residents, and its surrounding communities. < Previous Article Next Article >

Little fighter celebrates birthday in hospital 1/2 Share GK CRONJE 14 September 2021 The prayer and update group created for Daniel on Facebook was abuzz with birthday- and well wishes for the little soldier, who has thus far persevered and kept a light spirit, despite his injuries. The news of Daniel Kerswell, now 2 years old, spread like wildfire through the community of Ermelo, and the nation as a whole. In a utter freak accident, Daniel was accidentally hit by his father’s SUV on Sunday, 5 September, after he presumably ran out to say goodbye to his father. Unbeknownst to Paul, Daniel’s father, the toddler was behind the SUV, and was subsequently knocked down. Daniel is currently being treated in Steve Biko for medical treatment for a broken collarbone and hip bone, and one of his lungs also collapsed. Initial brain scans indicated no cranial injury. The past week has, however, been a rollercoaster ride of emotions for the family, as well as those following the updates regarding Daniel’s wellbeing. While he had a setback during the week when they attempted to wean him off the ventilator, the little one bounced back resiliently and is in stable condition. Danelle, the toddler’s mother, told the Tribune ePaper that the medical personnel has provided a positive update on his condition, and that the drainage shunt and ventilator was again scheduled to be removed yesterday, Monday, 13 September. According to an update by Danelle, the little man woke up during visiting hours on Monday, and immediately started to cry when he saw her. At time of publication, the ventilator pipes were being removed. The accident occurred a mere week before the toddler’s second birthday, which was joyously celebrated by all this past Sunday, despite the rough week. The prayer and update group created for Daniel on Facebook was abuzz with birthday- and well wishes for the little soldier, who has thus far persevered and kept a light spirit, despite his injuries. Several institutions and community members jumped in and started raising funds for the treatment and medical expenses, as the family does not have medical aid. On Friday, the Learning Nest Academy, along with a multitude of other institutions, presented a coin toss at the school in aid of Daniel’s medical expenses. If you have hosted an event or coin toss in aid of Daniel, you may call, or forward your event’s photos, accompanied by the relevant information via WhatsApp to 071 885 2505, to be included in next week’s publication. < Previous Article Next Article >

Jumping back on the nuclear horse 1/1 Share GK CRONJE 16 June 2020 The renewed vigor for nuclear energy comes as a surprise, as government dropped controversial plans to build eight nuclear power stations. These dubious deals had been initiated by former president Jacob Zuma, and has come under extreme scrutiny amidst serious allegations of corruption. According to statements from the energy ministry, South Africa is planning a 2 500 megawatt civil nuclear programme in an attempt to solve the country's electricity supply problem. “Given the long lead-time of building additional new nuclear capacity, upfront planning is necessary for security of energy supply to society into the future,” the ministry stated. South Africa is the only country in Africa to have a civil nuclear programme. The two reactors at the Koeberg power plant have been in service for more than 30 years, producing 4 percent of the country's total energy. At this time, 90 percent of the country's electricity is generated from coal-fired stations that are dilapidated due to poor maintenance, vandalism and aging. The renewed vigor for nuclear energy comes as a surprise, as government dropped controversial plans to build eight nuclear power stations. These dubious deals had been initiated by former president Jacob Zuma, and has come under extreme scrutiny amidst serious allegations of corruption. < Previous Article Next Article >

COSATU throws weight behind NUMSA strike 1/1 Share GK CRONJE 7 October 2021 Metalworkers union NUMSA had commenced its national strike on Tuesday, which will continue indefinitely until demands are met. The Congress of South African Trade Unions (COSATU) stated that it will take part in the strike today to putpressure on the government and private sector to pay more attention to the working class. The strike has been slated as a "one day participation" by COSATU. “The federation is issuing a call to all workers and South Africans to join the strike. They can either join the planned activities across the country, or withdraw their labour by staying at home on the day,” said COSATU spokesperson, Sizwe Pamla. He said the union was demanding urgent action from policy makers in the government, as well as the private sector, to ensure that workers receive their dues. “Both the public and the private sector have been blatantly undermining collective bargaining. We want the reversal of budget cuts that have led to an unacceptable wage freeze in the public service, the disintegration of the CCMA, and retrenchments in state-owned companies,” Pamla said. Metalworkers union NUMSA had commenced its national strike on Tuesday, which will continue indefinitely until demands are met. The union demands an 8% wage increase for workers, and have accused employers of using the pandemic as an excuse to sidestep lawfully stipulated annual salary increases. An estimated 430 000 workers across 9 000 steel and engineering companies countrywide will down tools in solidarity. NUMSA spokesperson, Phakamile Hlubi-Majola, stated that all their members are fed up with the fact that the employers refuse to give them a meaningful increase. Therefore they are demanding an 8% wage increase across the board. < Previous Article Next Article >

Refineries bogged down by demand 1/1 Share GK CRONJE 16 June 2020 Although production had ramped up at the refineries, and product imports had arrived in South African ports, the challenges remain. Neither Mantashe, nor parliament's portfolio committee on mineral resources and energy chairperson, Sahlulele Luzipo, had responded to the DA's request for an urgent briefing on what was being done to mitigate this crisis. The DA remains extremely concerned at the lack of response from mineral resources and energy minister, Gwede Mantashe, regarding the ongoing diesel shortages being experienced around South Africa. Numerous wholesalers and retailers experiences difficulty in obtaining resupply. Although production had ramped up at the refineries, and product imports had arrived in South African ports, the challenges remain. Neither Mantashe, nor parliament's portfolio committee on mineral resources and energy chairperson, Sahlulele Luzipo, had responded to the DA's request for an urgent briefing on what was being done to mitigate this crisis. Deputy director-general for petroleum and petroleum products regulation, Tseliso Maqubela, had confirmed that diesel was currently being rationed. “Minimal refining capacity is online, and there is very limited imported stock arriving on our shores. According to reports, three of South Africa’s six refineries are yet to restart operations, two are in limited production, and the PetroSA facility had halted production temporarily due to product contamination and pipeline failures. This means that diesel is likely to be rationed for the foreseeable future. Given the lengthy lead time to procure, ship, offload and distribute fuel stock, it makes sense to hold sufficient reserves in the country to offset any potential supply chain interruptions.” < Previous Article Next Article >

TLU demands clarity on hunting regulations 1/0 Share GK CRONJE 4 August 2020 “We urge the department and government to explain why these regulations were revised,” says Mr. Meintjes. “Farmers are already fed up with the impact of the lockdown while government depends on them to continue with food production. The day will come when farmers cannot supply the demand anymore.” Media Statement - TLU SA demands an explanation about the revised regulations published in the Government Gazette on Tuesday which prohibits interprovincial travel for hunting. The department of environment, forestry and fisheries also put an end to accommodation for hunters with the regulations. “It is utterly reckless and irrational to publish these types of regulations,” says Mr. Louis Meintjes, the president of TLU SA. “This is another economic blow for game farmers who’ve had massive losses because of the regulations during the first week of the lockdown. Our members already accepted deposits and made arrangements for hunters from other provinces who would have hunted with them. The risk for the spread of COVID-19 in remote areas, where people have little contact with each other, is minimal.” Game farmers had to forfeit the income from international hunters this year and depended on local hunters to have at least some form of revenue during the hunting season. Now they have minimal opportunity to earn an income and keep their farms running. It will have an impact on employment as well. In April Wildlife Ranching South Africa reported that the limitations had negatively impacted 67% of all employers in the game industry. In many rural areas, the local economy depends on hunters and game farmers spending money in the town or district. It keeps the local community alive. “We urge the department and government to explain why these regulations were revised,” says Mr. Meintjes. “Farmers are already fed up with the impact of the lockdown while government depends on them to continue with food production. The day will come when farmers cannot supply the demand anymore.” < Previous Article Next Article >