VARS FEB 2023

Drakenstein Municipality’s official e-newsletter Drakenstein Munisipaliteit se amptelike e-nuusbrief Incwadi yendaba yombane yoMasipala wase Drakenstein

FEBRUARY 2023

Table of Contents

ALL ABOUT SERVICE DELIVERY

6 Keeping our Roads in Tip-top Shape: It’s Worth the Wait and the Dust! Drakenstein’s rapid expansion–owing to exciting new business investments–makes it more important than ever to keep our roads in tip-top shape. 8 Striking a Balance between New Developments and Traffic Flow in Drakenstein “A Traffic Impact Assessment ensures that no stone is left unturned in terms of planning,” says Henk Strijdom, Land Development Management Manager at Drakenstein Municipality. 10 Ready to Mitigate Possible Impact of Eskom Loadshedding on Service Delivery “Our residents can rest assured that water provision will not be impacted by high-stage Eskom loadshedding,” says the Executive Mayor. 14 Drakenstein Traffic Centres and Municipal Court Go Cashless in Interest of Safety For safety reasons, cash is no longer accepted as payment at Drakenstein traffic centres and the Municipal Court. 15 How to Safely Use Gas as an Alternative to Electricity When you use gas as an alternative, be sure to follow these safety tips. 32 Ontmoet die Gesig Agter die Aanlyn-hernuwing van Voertuiglisensies: Ons gesels met Debmarie Liedeman Debmarie, 'n senior klerk by die Paarl-verkeersentrum, het met Vars gesels.

REGULARS 4 Editor's Letter

As we hit the road in 2023, Drakenstein’s roads, upgrades and traffic flow management come under the spotlight in this first edition of Vars.

MUNICIPAL NEWS

16 R301 Becomes Mandela Freedom Road to Honour Madiba’s Legacy The R301 road between Paarl and Franschhoek will be renamed the Mandela Freedom Road.

12 Drakenstein Development and Investment Prospectus Drakenstein is a city geared for growth. Read more in the full prospectus.

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EXPLORE DRAKENSTEIN 24 Ballet, A Universe of the Imagination

Vars speaks to Joy Cargill, who teaches ballet at the Joy Cargill Studio of Ballet in Paarl, about this classical dance style. 26 Executive Mayor Conrad Poole Welcomes ICC Women's T20 World

Cup 2023 to Drakenstein It is a huge privilege being one of South Africa’s three host cities for this prestigious international event.

BUSINESS AND INVESTMENT 18 Mossop Leather, More than Just a Tannery Mossop Leather is one of the largest employers in Wellington, supporting 200 employees and their families. 22 Toerismegradering in Drakenstein: Sterre Maak Steeds Saak Christopher Phillips, 'n onafhanklike assessor vir die Toerisme Graderingsraad van Suid-Afrika, verduidelik hoe 'n gradering verseker dat enige besoeker 'n gehalte ervaring kan verwag. 28 Geskoolde Arbeid: Die Wamakersvallei Opleidingsentrum ‘Moet Gekoester Word’ Dié opleidingsentrum het die vaardigheidsbou van plaaslike gemeenskapslede ten doel.

COMMUNITY VOICES

30 Onderrig uit Boeke... én die Hart Vars gesels met Liesl Appollis, 'n graad 1-opvoeder by die St. Albans Primêre Skool in Wellington. 37 Keeping a Close Eye This is what the community has to say about service delivery. OPPORTUNITIES 36 Notices Your need-to-knows. 38 Personnel Vacancies Find out more about personnel vacancies.

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Roads connect us with our workplaces, our children’s schools, our parents’ homes, the shops, the gym, sports fields, restaurants, and a night out. They connect us with emergency centres when we need them, and with our places of worship. No doubt they play an essential part in our lives. As we hit the road in 2023, Drakenstein’s roads, upgrades, and traffic flow management come under the spotlight in this first edition of Vars . Drakenstein is in the fortunate position that we are located on a prime intersection of major Western Cape access routes, and our area historically boasts a well-maintained roads infrastructure network. As Drakenstein rapidly expands and new developments are mushrooming, it is important to keep our roads in tip-top shape. Businesses need this, and so do our residents – to make driving here a safe experience and a sheer pleasure. Harry Liedeman, Manager: Roads, Stormwater, and Traffic Engineering at the Municipality, shares details of major road network capital projects recently completed or currently underway in Drakenstein. One road that is definitely going to make heads turn this year is the R301 between Paarl and Franschhoek. It is getting a brand-new name – the Mandela Freedom Road ! The Drakenstein Municipal Council initiated this step to honour late President Nelson Mandela who took his first footsteps of freedom, following his incarceration, right here in Drakenstein 33 years ago – on 11 February to be exact. What better time for Vars to bring you this story? New developments often mean an influx of traffic. It is important to plan them properly so that they don’t lead to traffic congestion, parking challenges, or road surface damage. Henk Strijdom, Land Development Management Manager at the Municipality, walks Vars readers through the steps the Municipality takes to ensure that all new building plan applications are subjected to strict approval processes and that traffic impact assessments are submitted when needed. Did you know that Drakenstein’s unique topography helps us during Eskom loadshedding? As we are situated in a valley surrounded by mountains, many of our areas don’t require electrical pumps to convey water from point A to B; in most areas, water gravitates through the network to our consumers and reservoirs. In this Vars , we look at the Municipality’s comprehensive contingency plan to mitigate any possible service delivery disruptions due to Eskom loadshedding , and to safeguard municipal infrastructure – from installing Uninterrupted Power Supply (UPS) systems at our major traffic intersections to improving our sewage systems’ ability to function independently during loadshedding. We also list tips for using household gas safely . It is the beginning of the new school year and the start of many starry-eyed grade 1 learners’ school careers. Vars popped in at St. Albans Primary in Wellington to visit Liesl Appollis , a grade 1 teacher who believes that the biggest impact a teacher can make is to help learners find “their place in life”. We Are Hitting the Road in 2023

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“

At Drakenstein Municipality, we are ready to continue bringing excellent services to our community in 2023, which include keeping Drakenstein’s roads in tip-top shape. A well-developed and regularly maintained road network – in support of integrated urban planning, economic growth, and sustainable development – is vital for our residents and for new business.

„

Join us on the journey of continuing to make Drakenstein a great place to live, work, and play!

- Executive Mayor, Alderman Conrad Poole

Helping to develop the next generation is also at the heart of what Mossop Leather does in Wellington. More than just a tannery, Mossop gives young, unemployed South Africans the chance to gain an education, work experience, and a skillset in the manufacturing sector. Mossop Leather’s Marc Lailvaux gives us the lowdown. Another Wellington outfit that believes in preparing people to enter the job market straight away is the Wamakersvallei Opleidingsentrum . Manager Elsabe Lintvelt told Vars that thanks to their bursaries, Wamakers often offers “the last hope” to people who want to improve their lives. For this month’s staff profile, we feature Debmarie Liedeman , the face behind Drakenstein Municipality’s popular online vehicle license renewal system. She says no day at the office is ever the same and tells Vars about those funny moments when vehicle owners ask her to help them with totally unrelated issues. Her motto is to not only reach her goals but also to ace them. Be sure to check out the online vehicle license renewal steps in this article. The Municipality has gone cashless at our traffic centres and new Municipal Court for safety reasons. We share details of this new system. Finally, Vars made a sho’t left to the Wellington Country House to congratulate owner Mara Scholtz on their four-star grading! We take a look at why it is important for tourism establishments to be graded , and how this “emblem of quality and excellence” draws more visitors, ups your search engine rankings, and enhances Paarl-Wellington’s reputation as a preferred destination. As Mara says, “a good grading adds gravitas... and extra pizzazz”! We also explain the steps establishments need to follow to get graded. The Vars editorial team is energised and ready to travel down the proverbial yellow brick road this year, (hopefully) leading to many successes and adventures we would be delighted to share with our readers – together with entertaining, fresh, fun, and informative stories and videos. Be sure to share your content ideas with us at vars@drakenstein.gov.za.

From the Vars editorial team

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Located on a prime intersection of major Western Cape access routes, Drakenstein historically boasts a well-maintained roads infrastructure network. This is in no small part thanks to Drakenstein Municipality’s vision to use road infrastructure as a key to unlock and facilitate economic investment, albeit through business, tourism, or residential developments. Drakenstein’s rapid expansion – owing to exciting new business investments – makes it more important than ever to keep our roads in tip-top shape. Not only is this beneficial for business and new developments, but it is also safer for our residents and it makes driving in Drakenstein a sheer pleasure. Road upgrades and maintenance unfortunately sometimes mean traffic delays and dusty roadworks, but they are worth the wait.

Engineering. With nearly 18 years’ experience in his field, he gives Vars readers an inside look at major roads network capital projects recently completed or currently underway in Drakenstein. In 2022, a total of R5 million was invested in the resealing of streets across Drakenstein, such as Pentz Street (Wellington); Pinzi, Silimela, and Zingisani Streets (Mbekweni); and Driebergen Street and Orleans Avenue (Paarl). “Another high-priority project is the construction, upgrading, and maintenance of provincial roads within our urban edge,” says Harry. As a rule, this is done in collaboration with the Western Cape Department of Transport and Public Works, and a combined budget is determined for these projects – with the Provincial Department providing 80% of the funding and the Municipality 20%.

Harry Liedeman is the Municipality’s Manager: Roads, Stormwater, and Traffic

Keeping Our Roads in Tip-Top Shape: It’s Worth the Wait and the Dust!

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An example of this collaboration is the Oosbosch Street project in Paarl, with a total value of R128 million. The R301 (Franschhoek Road) is currently being upgraded to a dual carriageway between the N1 and Kliprug Road (200m south of the Val de Vie circle) under a provincial contract. The expected total project value is R240 million. “We are also planning to upgrade provincial roads such as the R45 (Simondium Road) and the section of Jan van Riebeeck Drive between Oosbosch and Van der Stel Streets in Paarl,” says Harry. In addition, in Mbekweni, Drommedaris Street’s upgrading is underway (between Oosbosch and Van der Stel Streets). This venture will be completed over several financial years, with the first phase – which entails upgrading the water reticulation during 2022/23 to the value of R5 million – already underway.

The estimated cost of the project’s further phases amounts to R28 million. Another focus area is the facilitation of developments within Drakenstein, with the upgrading of streets being funded through development contributions from the relevant private developments.

Two examples of this scenario are:

• the installation of traffic signals and upgrading of the Carolina Road intersection in Paarl (to the estimated value of R11 million); and • the upgrading of Bartholomeu Street from Jan van Riebeeck Drive to the circle at Symphony Avenue in Paarl (to an estimated contract value of R4.2 million). This will include upgrading the signalisation.

Drakenstein Municipality is hard at work keeping our roads in top condition.

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Drakenstein Municipality is committed to the area’s development and takes infrastructural implications and traffic flow into account when approving building plans.

Striking a Balance between New Developments and Traffic Flow in Drakenstein

Drakenstein Municipality remains committed to stimulating job creation and to helping to improve our area’s employment rate. This we aim to do by creating and sustaining an attractive investment environment for developers and investors, and by facilitating the establishment of new developments.

and infrastructure capacity in Drakenstein, considering that some developments may create an influx of vehicular traffic. If new buildings are not planned properly, it could lead to traffic congestion, parking challenges and road surface damage. The Municipality can give the assurance that all building plan applications are subjected to strict approval processes. Any plan that does not

It is, however, vital to maintain a delicate balance between business expansion

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• providing ample on-site parking bays; or • planning for landscaping to ensure a visually pleasing environment.

meet the Municipality’s stringent requirements, will be rejected. Moreover, not all developments necessarily generate vast amounts of traffic. Henk Strijdom, Land Development Management Manager at Drakenstein Municipality, offers Vars readers more insight into this matter: Traffic Impact Assessment provides for required infrastructure upgrades “Applicants (developers or businesses) are required to conduct a pre-application consultation with all relevant stakeholders. This ensures that any matters are addressed before an application is lodged,” explains Henk. If, during the pre-application consultation, it is clear that a development would generate significant traffic, the applicant must submit a Traffic Impact Assessment. This assessment determines if the existing roads would be able to cope with the additional traffic. The applicant’s appointed Traffic Engineer will usually liaise with the Municipality’s Civil Engineering Services division, or the Provincial Roads Engineer, to ensure that the Traffic Impact Assessment meets their requirements. If a significant negative impact is projected, the specific road infrastructure upgrades that need to be implemented will be tabled as part of the approval’s conditions. The developer is subsequently responsible for the upgrades. “A Traffic Impact Assessment ensures that no stone is left unturned in terms of planning,” he says.

Building plan approvals explained Once the pre-application requirements have been addressed, applicants must submit a formal application. “After an application has been lodged, it must first be advertised in the press. This requirement is in place to inform the surrounding property owners of any proposed change(s). If anyone has any objections, this is the stage to voice such concerns with valid reasons,” emphasises Henk. Next, various internal and external stakeholders (such as the Municipality’s Civil Engineering Services and Electro-Technical Services divisions, and the Provincial Roads Engineer) must be consulted. These stakeholders will advise on whether the proposed properties or establishments would need access from a provincial road, as well as on a range of other matters. “This is a crucial step in the process, as it will ensure that an area’s existing infrastructure is able to cope with increased demand; if not, the required road and infrastructure changes must first be made before the application can go ahead,” Henk concludes. For more information on investing in Drakenstein, potential investors and developers can view the Municipality’s new Drakenstein Development and Investment Prospectus or contact Yolande Oosthuizen at the Development and Investment Desk at invest@drakenstein.gov.za.

Some examples of upgrades that may be required, are:

• installing traffic lights; • constructing additional turning lanes; • planning for adequate refuse removal;

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Ready to Mitigate Possible Impact of Eskom Loadshedding on Service Delivery

Not only does Eskom’s persistent loadshedding disrupt people’s daily lives, but it is also threatening to have a detrimental impact on municipal infrastructure, budgets, and service delivery. Drakenstein Municipality has a comprehensive contingency plan in place to mitigate any possible service delivery disruptions due to Eskom loadshedding, as well as to safeguard municipal infrastructure. Alderman Conrad Poole, Executive Mayor of Drakenstein Municipality, has assured residents that their service needs always take precedence. “The Municipality has prepared and implemented plans and programmes to keep services such as water provision, waste- water treatment, sewage disposal, refuse collection, and traffic control running with the least possible hiccups – despite the challenges posed by Eskom loadshedding,” he confirmed. Technical teams repair electricity infrastructure that breaks down due to high stages of loadshedding as quickly as possible. The Municipality and its dedicated cable theft unit are also making strides in its fight against cable theft – an activity that soars during power outages – as more and more culprits are being arrested and prosecuted for this crime in Drakenstein. Water and sanitation services “Our residents can rest assured that water provision will not be impacted by high-stage Eskom loadshedding,” says Alderman Poole. Drakenstein finds itself in a favourable position thanks to its unique topography. Situated in a

valley surrounded by mountains, there are few areas that require electrical pumps to convey water from point A to B; in most areas, water gravitates through the network to consumers and reservoirs. The areas that do require pump systems are already equipped with backup generators, and mobile generators can also be utilised if required. The Municipality’s reservoirs are designed to cater for at least 48 hours of storage capacity in the event of any breakdown in bulk supply. Should Eskom implement Stage 7 loadshedding or higher, a drop in water pressure may be experienced in some areas; however, in such an event the Municipality will communicate with its residents and share tips on how to reduce the pressure on the water networks. Drakenstein’s geographical location also favours the Municipality’s sewage transport system, as most sewer flow gravitates towards the wastewater treatment facilities. All the Municipality’s sewage pump stations’ sumps are designed to cater for at least four hours’ flow without electricity, before overflowing. Sewer pump stations are also prioritised to ensure that the Municipality keep a close

watch on those that could potentially cause environmental damage should they overflow, and attend to them first.

Towards the end of last year, National Treasury awarded Drakenstein Municipality a Budget Facility for Infrastructure (BFI) grant of R1.4 billion over the next three financial years. The Municipality will spend these funds on wastewater and bulk sanitation upgrades

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and rehabilitation in the Paarl and Wellington area, including improving its systems’ ability to function independently during Eskom loadshedding at the Paarl Wastewater Treatment Works. Traffic control - Signalised traffic intersections To address traffic control challenges during loadshedding, Drakenstein Municipality is following an innovative approach: it has already equipped over half (54%) of its 48 primary signalised traffic intersections with Uninterrupted Power Supply (UPS) systems. These systems are installed in underground chambers to prevent vandalism and robberies. The security system, developed by Drakenstein Municipality in partnership with Smartlock, is equipped with an alarm system that detects any unauthorised access. Plans are underway to upgrade a further nine high-traffic intersections with UPS systems in 2023. In addition, one new intersection will be constructed at Wellington’s Weltevrede or Piet Retief Road intersection. Upon completion of the abovementioned upgrades, 37 of the 48 intersections will be equipped with UPS systems (75.5%). Road users should, however, note that these UPS batteries don’t have sufficient time to recharge when Eskom implements ongoing Stage 4 loadshedding or above. In case a power outage lasts longer, as with the introduction of Stage 6 loadshedding, traffic lights won’t be able to work continuously. When this happens, road users should treat all intersections as three- or four-way stops; the Municipality will place stop signs and have point service officers on duty at these points as far as possible. Drakenstein Municipality recently became the first municipality in the Western Cape to officially launch the Pointsmen Project in collaboration with OUTsurance and Traffic FreeFlow Winelands, an independent company

that owns and manages the Pointsmen Project. This project will strengthen the Municipality’s current corps with 17 point service officers, appointed on a five-year contract. • Residents are encouraged to report any service interruptions via the Municipality’s SeeClickFix app, call 080 131 3553 toll free, or email customercare@drakenstein.gov.za . • The Municipality also urges residents to report any suspicious activity relating to cable theft to its 24/7 control room at 021 807 8508 to the South African Police Service (SAPS). Anonymous tip-offs are also welcomed and can be sent to the Municipality at 021 807 8508 or 080 131 3553 toll free.

Drakenstein Municipality installed this UPS system on the corner of Champagne and Piet Retief Streets in Wellington last month. It is one of four that was installed in January in Wellington and Paarl. Upon completion of the upgrades, 37 of Drakenstein’s 48 major traffic intersections will be equipped with UPS systems.

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Development and Investment PROSPECTUS

See the full Prospectus

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Why Invest in Drakenstein?

Technology

15 consecutive unqualified audit opinions since 2011

Well-maintained, stable electricity network

Renewable Energy

Awarded Green Drop Status

Largest economy in the Cape Winelands

Agri-business

Drakenstein Municipality recently invested R 1.55 billion in constructing and

upgrading infrastructure

Entertainment and Media

Which are Drakenstein's Catalytic Zones? Drakenstein has five catalytic zones, dividing the area into investment nodes to facilitate a focused approach to development proposals which, over the next decade, will significantly alter and improve the space, economy, and sustainability of Drakenstein. The catalytic zones are:

Advanced Manufacturing

Tourism

1. 2. 3. 4. 5.

North City Corridor

Paarl East - West Corridor

Transport and Logistics

N1 Corridor

South City Corridor

Hinterland (Saron, Hermon, Gouda, Windmeul, and rural areas)

Education

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Amaziko ezithuthi aseDrakenstein kunye neNkundla kaMasipala asebenza ngaphandle kokuhlawulwa ngemali ezinkozo ngenxa yokubekwa phambili kokhuselo

Ukususela ekuqalekeni kowama-2023, amalungu oluntu ayacelwa okokuba ahlawule ngamakhadi awo ebhanka kumaziko ezithuthi zoMasipala wase - Drakenstein nakwiNkundla entsha kaMasipala. Ngezizathu zokhuselo, imali ezinkozo ayisamkelekanga njengentlawulo. UMasipala uthabathe eli nyathelo ukwenzela ukuqinisekisa ngokhuselo lwabasebenzi bakhe kunye nesakhiwo, njengoko amagosa kunye nee-ofisi eziphatha imali zisoloko amaxesha amaninzi ziba ngamaxhoba abajolise kuzo abaphangi namasela.

La malungiselo matsha asebenza kumaziko alandelayo:

• I-Daljosaphat Driving License and Testing Centre, Edison Street, Paarl • IiNkonzo zeZithuthi, Berg River Boulevard, Paarl • ISebe leZithuthi eWellington, Pentz Street, Wellington

• I-Wellington Vehicle Licensing, Civic Centre, Pentz Street, Wellington • INkundla kaMasipala, 60 Breda Street, Paarl Ukuqinisekisa ngento yokokuba la maziko asoloko esebenza nangexesha lokucinywa kombane kuphungulwa umthwalo wokusetyen - ziswa luka-Eskom, uMasipala ufake iijeneretha kwiziko ngalinye. Apho ukucinywa kombane kusachaphazela iintengiselwano ze-elektroniki, amalungu oluntu aya kuthi okwethutyana abe nakho ukuhlawula la maziko ngemali ezinkozo de kube kufakwe ijeneretha.

UMasipala ubulela uluntu ngentsebenziswano yalo.

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Indlela yokuSebenzisa iGesi ngokhuseleko njengendlela eyenye engaphandle kokusetyenziswa koMbane

Ngethuba lokucinywa kombane ngu-Eskom ephungula umthwalo wokusetyenziswa kwawo nakukucinywa kombane nje ngokubanzi, uninzi lwabantu lukhetha ukusebenzisa igesi endaweni yombane. Xa usebenzisa le ndlela iyenye, nceda uqinisekise ngokulandela ezi ngcebiso zokhuselo:

• Ukuba ngaba uva kunuka igesi kwikhaya lakho, cima zonke izixhobo ezingavelisa umlilo ngoko nangoko, ze uvule iingcango neefestile ukuze kube kungene kuphuma umoya;

• Soloko ngalo lonke ixesha uqala ngokuqhwitha imatshisi kuqala

• Iisilinda zegesi kufuneka zizaliswe kuphela kwiindawo ezivunyiweyo zabathengisi begesi;

phambi kokuba uvule isilinda yegesi;

• Ziphathe iisilinda ezingenagesi ngololongo olunye kunye nezo zizele yigesi; yaye • Khumbula okokuba umthwalo omkhulu weesilinda zegesi unokuhanjiswa kuphela ngezithuthi ezivunyiweyo, apho kukhutshwe iphepha-mvume elisemthethweni.

• Sebenzisa iisilinda zegesi kwimimandla ekungena kuphuma umoya ngokwaneleyo; • Iisilinda zegesi ezivuzayo kufuneka zithathwe zisiwe kumthengisi ovunyiweyo wegesi okokuba zilungiswe ngoko nangoko;

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R301 Becomes Mandela Freedom Road to Honour Madiba’s legacy

The rich history behind the name change

Drakenstein was the last stop on the late President’s inspiring road to freedom. The R301 leads to and from the Drakenstein Correctional Centre (the former Victor Verster Prison), where Madiba spent his last 14 months of imprisonment in a private house on the compound. Dubbed the Madiba Prison House, the building was declared a South African National Heritage Site. On the day of Mandela’s release, television crews, reporters, and supporters from all over the world lined the entrance to the prison, giving the location international publicity and achieving a celebrated place in the history of South Africa's democracy. A life-sized bronze statue of the legendary statesman adorns the entrance to the prison; annually, hundreds of tourists flock to the site to take photos in front of the iconic figure. “The R301 took South Africa’s late President to his last prison. This same road finally also became Tata Madiba’s gateway to freedom. On the day of his release – after 27 years spent in various prisons – Mandela was escorted out on the R301. This road has enormous historical significance,” said Alderman Conrad Poole, Executive Mayor of Drakenstein Municipality. “Madiba is remembered for the sacrifices he made for all South Africans, especially the footprints he left behind in Drakenstein. We can further honour him by renaming this road after him,” he said. Drakenstein reaps benefits Drakenstein Municipality’s business plan, called the Integrated Development Plan (IDP), recognises the naming and renaming of streets and other public places as an integral part of place-making. In this regard,

The R301 road between Paarl and Franschhoek will be renamed the Mandela Freedom Road to honour the late President Nelson Mandela who took his first footsteps of freedom here 33 years ago, following his incarceration. This step, initiated by the Drakenstein Municipal Council, will strengthen the tourism value of the area, as well as give this road a uniform name. The geographical name change was gazetted on 16 September 2022, when Nathi Mthethwa, national Minister of Sport, Arts, and Culture, officially approved the change in terms of Section 10(2) of the South African Geographical Names Council Act (Act No 118 of 1998).

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renaming the R301 potentially has multiple be - nefits for the Drakenstein community. One such advantage would be establishing a single stan - dardised name for the road – it is currently also called Main Road 201 or the Wemmershoek - pad, which causes unnecessary confusion. Besides such practical benefits, the name change promises to boost Drakenstein’s visibility as a celebrated heritage centre and to attract more tourists and visitors to the area. Especially for tourists interested in retracing Madiba’s steps, it makes for a natural next stop after visiting his cell in the Robben Island Prison, as well as the Grand Parade and City Hall in Cape Town where he delivered his first public address following his release, with the world watching. While the Madiba Prison House is currently not open to visitors, the Western Cape Department of Arts and Culture has plans to turn the historic building into a museum. (Be sure to check out this behind-the-scenes video of the making of a short documentary on the Madiba Prison House.) In the meanwhile, Madiba’s statue at the prison’s entrance is the perfect spot for a selfie.

participation process, the following role-players were involved in the renaming process:

• The Western Cape Department of Transport and Public Works; • The Western Cape Department of Cultural Affairs and Sport;

• The South African National Roads Agency; • The Western Cape Provincial Geographical Names Committee; and • The South African Geographical Names Council. The Nelson Mandela Foundation granted permission for the use of the Mandela name. The formal renaming (including the installation of new road signs) will take place once the road has been upgraded. Did you know? Drakenstein Municipality’s logo also pays homage to Madiba. The figure in the centre is a depiction of the late President Nelson Mandela who took his first steps of freedom in Drakenstein and passed on a legacy of reconciliation and selfless dedication to service to the community. As such, it also embodies achievement and excellence. The dark blue ridges in the outer frame symbolise Drakenstein's mountain ranges. The lighter blue crescents represent the Berg River, as well as the Drakenstein Valley, nestled between the mountain ranges. The smaller green crescents signify growth, development, and agriculture.

27 for Freedom follows in Madiba’s footsteps

The 301 is also where the annual 27 for Freedom Road Race is held to commemorate Mandela’s historic release -- and this year was no different. On Saturday, 11 February 2023, you could walk or run along the same route Madiba followed as he left prison, from the Madiba Prison House to the Madiba Statue at the entrance of the facility. Participants could choose between a 5km fun run, a 10km race, or a 27km route. A road name is not changed overnight The Drakenstein Municipal Council submitted its first application to rename a portion of the R301 in 2018. In addition to upholding due diligence and following the standard public

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Marc Lailvaux demonstrates the quality of Mossop Leather’s products.

Formerly known as Western Boot & Tanning, Mossop Leather in Blignaut Street, Wellington, has been in the Boland region since 1871. In 1996, Western Boot & Tanning Co merged with Mossop & Son Leather, becoming Mossop Leather. Mossop & Sons was a well-known tannery from Cape Town. They were established in 1846 after their founder, Joseph Mossop, purchased land from John Ebden (the founding father of Old Mutual). Today Mossop Leather is one of the largest employers in Wellington, supporting 200 employees and their families. They have also diversified their revenue streams by exporting leather to Europe, the Indian subcontinent, and the Far East. This has enabled continuous company growth, while contributing to the local economy as well. Mossop Leather is More than Just a Tannery

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Mossop Leather is one of the largest employers in Wellington.

It also showcases what a South African company can achieve. At

Mossop Leather, they harbour the hope that their business operations and overall involvement will lead to more business interest and increased development in the Drakenstein region. According to Marc Lailvaux, responsible for environmental, social, and governance (ESG) practices and the LEATHERPRINT® approach at Mossop Leather, many of their international customers buy more than just leather from them. Customers also enjoy recreational activities in the Boland and shop from other locals. And through Mossop Leather, they even become involved in some charities in Wellington.

By exporting leather, Mossop Leather contributes to the local economy.

@drakensteinmunicipality

@DrakensteinMunicipality

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Doing business in Drakenstein is particularly appealing for Mossop Leather, says Marc, as Drakenstein Municipality has achieved several clean audits and is South Africa’s first Fair Trade City , the values of which are closely aligned with their own. The tannery's placement in the beautiful Winelands area gives customers another reason to visit! Developing a more balanced society and community in Drakenstein Mossop Leather has identified areas where they believe they can contribute to the community. They see their impact on society as crucial to their business. Marc believes that skills development of the next generation is an essential part of the solution to addressing these challenges. Therefore, Mossop Leather has developed a Workplace Skills Plan that includes Unemployed Learnerships and an Internship Programme. The Workplace Skills Plan aids the development of the next generation of leather innovators. Hereby young, unemployed South Africans are given the chance to gain an education, work experience, and a skillset in the manufacturing sector.

Mossop Leather has a speci Plan to aid the next generatio

The Unemployed Learnerships form part of an internal training programme funded by SETA (Sector Education and Training Authority) and are coordinated by Mossop Leather. Over the years, the programme has proven to be quite successful, with its learners taking up junior manager positions at the tannery.

Mossop Leather is more than just a tannery. They are helping to develop the next generation of leather innovators. In this way they give young, unemployed South Africans the chance to gain an education, work experience, and a skillset in the manufacturing sector. Press play to learn more.

VARS | February

The work-integrated Internship Programme is also SETA-funded and provides practical training in business. The students selected for the programme complete a National Certificate Level 6. A community for responsible leather At Mossop Leather, they follow the LEATHERPRINT® approach. This means that Mossop has an ongoing commitment to ensuring that their business practices are conscientious towards the environment, society, and economic activity. Mossop Leather adopts a holistic approach to sustainability whereby they share ideas, build on them, and use these concepts to guide the business in manufacturing, Marc explains. He says it is an opportunity for innovation. This approach guides them on producing better leathers with a significant impact on society and the economy – all while their footprint on the environment remains as small as possible. The Leather Working Group (LWG) accreditation is another step towards greater holistic sustainability and responsible leather production in the day-to-day practices at the tannery. At Mossop Leather, they follow time-honoured traditions while using modern manufacturing, resulting in the perfect synergy between leather and technology.

ally developed Workplace Skills on of the leather industry.

Mossop Leather combines expertise with sustainability.

Pictured here is the layout of Mossop Leather’s impressive garden.

VARS | February

Toerismegradering in Drakenstein:

In Suid-Afrika is die Toerisme Graderingsraad van Suid-Afrika (TGCSA) verantwoordelik vir die gradering en gehalteversekering van akkommodasie-ondernemings. Dié graderingstelsel ken tussen een en vyf sterre toe. 'n Goeie gradering beteken 'n gehalte ervaring Christopher Phillips, 'n onafhanklike assessor vir die TGCSA, verduidelik dat 'n gradering verseker dat enige besoeker – hetsy plaaslik of van enige plek ter wêreld – 'n gehalte ervaring kan verwag. Dít is juis die rede waarom dit belangrik vir 'n onderneming is om gegradeer te word. Een van die grootste voordele van 'n goeie gradering deur die TGCSA is dat só 'n onderneming op die webwerwe van die TGCSA verskyn en dat enigiemand op enige plek in die wêreld op hierdie manier 'n bespreking kan maak. 'n Verdere voordeel is dat die Suid-Afrikaanse Toerismeraad plaaslike ondernemings aktief bemark. 'n Deel van 'n TGCSA-assessor se werk is om die gehalte van die kos by 'n gastehuis of hotel te beoordeel, sowel as om te kyk of die beddens gemaklik genoeg is, en of die personeel vriendelike diens lewer. Hulle stel ook vas of hulle enige kliëntediensopleiding aan die onderneming kan verskaf. Die stappe wat gevolg moet word om gegradeer te word, is eerstens om die TGCSA te kontak waarna 'n onafhanklike assessor uitgestuur word. Die assessor gee inligting aan die onderneming oor die dokumentasie wat benodig sal word. Nadat die papierwerk voltooi

Sterre Maak Steeds Saak

Christopher Phillips van die Toerisme Graderingsraad van Suid-Afrika.

VARS | February

“‘n Goeie gradering verleen gravitas,” verduidelik Wellington Country House se eienaar, Mara Scholtz. Kyk gerus die video om te leer hoe hierdie graderingsproses werk.

Sterre maak steeds saak

en goedgekeur is, maak die assessor 'n afspraak met die onderneming sodat 'n kwaliteits-oudit kan plaasvind. Die hele proses is gratis en neem sowat 'n maand. ‘Gravitas… en ekstra pizzazz’ Mara Scholtz is die eienaar van die Wellington Country House, 'n vierster-gastehuis. Sy bieg dat sy voor haar gastehuis se gradering hoë verwagtinge gekoester het, maar steeds redelik op haar senuwees was. Sy was egter dadelik gerusgestel toe Christopher met sy eerste besoek alles op 'n koel en kalm manier aan haar verduidelik het en vandaar het die hele proses vlot verloop. Een ding wat uitstaan, is dat 'n goeie gradering “gravitas… en ekstra pizzazz” aan 'n onderneming verleen, vertel Mara. Dit help ook dat jou gastehuis – uit al die honderde duisende wat daar is – 'n voorkeur by soekenjins toon, soos sy die afgelope vakansieseisoen met nuwe gaste agtergekom het. Dit lei verder tot 'n goeie reputasie in die bedryf. Jy kan nie alles op sosiale media glo nie, maar jy kan op 'n toerismegradering vertrou, beklemtoon Mara.

Cheryl Phillips, Senior Bestuurder: Ekonomiese Ontwikkeling en Toerisme by Drakenstein Munisipaliteit, is van mening dat dit belangrik vir toeristebestemmings is om gegradeerde ondernemings te hê, want daardeur is toeriste verseker van 'n gehalte ervaring. Die meeste besoekers let pertinent op of daar drie, vier of vyf sterre aan 'n onderneming toegeken is, verduidelik sy, omdat hulle juis sekere verwagtinge koester. Drakenstein Munisipaliteit fokus op produk- ontwikkeling om plaaslike toerisme te bevorder, en bied ook seminare aan. Hulle werk nou saam met verskeie rolspelers in die private- en openbare sektore, en bied ondersteuning aan enige onderneming wat hulself wil laat gradeer. “Toerisme is almal se besigheid – daarom is dit een van ons hoofprioriteite,” sê Cheryl.

Contact Chris via email chris@tourismexcellence.co.za or call 082 339 0336.

VARS | February

At the Joy Cargill Studio of Ballet in Paarl, students are taught to have fun!

Ballet, A Universe of the Imagination

VARS | February

Ballet is a universe of the imagination, a place of magic and enchantment, beauty and romance. So the adage goes. To this Joy Cargill, who teaches ballet at the Joy Cargill Studio of Ballet in Paarl, adds: “It improves confidence, coordination, posture, self-esteem and physique.” Joy is a fully registered Royal Academy of Dance teacher, holding an International Teachers qualification. Her initial interest in this classical dance form came from watching her older sister’s ballet classes and falling in love with her ballet shoes. Joy offers classes in the internationally acclaimed Royal Academy of Dance method to Tiny Tots through to Pre-Primary, and Graded to Vocational Graded classical ballet. One of the biggest benefits for youngsters doing ballet is the friendships it encourages outside of school, and ballet is FUN! Joy says one of her favourite things about being a ballet teacher is “working with children and seeing their progression”.

She continues: “The teacher-pupil relationship in ballet is unique in that it is potentially a lifelong one. As tutor and mentor, I take pride in fostering a comfortable relationship with each individual student.” The dancers at the Joy Cargill Studio of Ballet take part in the annual International Royal Academy of Dance ballet exams. They also participate in the Paarl Valley Eisteddfod as well as in productions, including those of Cape Town City Ballet. The studio undertakes full-scale ballet productions such as The Nutcracker, The Fairy Doll, The King and I, and others. “But ballet is not just for children,” adds Joy. Adults can take up ballet too, she says, though it does require hard work and dedication. Ballet is a great form of exercise! (She however does not offer adult classes herself.) For some, a life without ballet would be pointless…

Contact Joy Cargill by email at joycargill@gmail.com or WhatsApp at 072 600 8037.

Drakenstein Sport Calendar

27 Walk to Freedom

ICC Women’s T20 World Cup

Date: 11 February 2023

Date: 11, 13, and 19 February 2023

Location: Drakenstein Correctional Facility, Paarl

Location: Boland Park Cricket Stadium, Paarl

@drakensteinmunicipality

@DrakensteinMunicipality

VARS | February

“On 11, 13, and 19 February 2023, Drakenstein is a proud witness to the making of international cricket history, when competing teams battle it out to finally get their hands on the coveted ICC Women’s T20 World Cup 2023 trophy,” says Alderman Conrad Poole, Executive Mayor of Drakenstein Municipality. “Being one of South Africa’s three host cities for this prestigious international event is a huge privilege, as we would like to further enhance Drakenstein’s profile as a destination of choice for sport tourism. This tournament will go a long way in helping us to achieve that goal. Thank you to the various cricketing bodies for seeing the value that Drakenstein can add to their efforts to grow the game and to introduce new markets to cricket. I also want to implore our residents to ensure we have a sold-out stadium for every game. "Let the games begin!" Executive Mayor Conrad Poole Welcomes ICC Women's T20 World Cup 2023 to Drakenstein

VARS | February

Sedert 2014 word 'n salon-assistente- kursus, in samewerking met Salon Scissors in die Paarl, ook aangebied. Verder word kort kursusse soos higiëne in bewaarskole (crèches), voeding in bewaarskole (crèches), Só verduidelik Elsabe Lintvelt, die sentrumbestuurder by Wamakers (soos die opleidingsentrum algemeen bekend staan). Sy glo die opleiding van versorgers sal ook werkloosheid in die area – veral onder skoolverlaters – help aanspreek. By Wamakers is die opleiding bekostigbaar. Na afloop van 'n kursus word baie van die studente werk aangebied by kinderveiligheid, noodhulp en kliëntediens ook aangebied. bewaarskole (crèches), ouetehuise, restaurante en salonne. Tuisversor - gers word ook uitgeplaas. Die ouderdom van studente by Wamakers wissel tussen 16 en 60. Ouer studente wil dikwels 'n loopbaanskuif maak of ontdek eers op 'n latere ouderdom hul passie vir versorging. Daar word jaarliks ongeveer 300 studente uit die Kaapse Wynlande by die Wamakersvallei Opleidingsentrum opgelei. Wamakers maak 'n verskil Wamakers is aktief betrokke by tehuise, bewaarskole (crèches), salonne, restaurante, ander opleidingsinstansies, veiligheid- sentrums (veral vir vroue) en nie-regeringsorganisasies. As opleidingsentrum verskaf hulle 'n voortdurende stroom van opgeleide, afgeronde persone wat werksgereed vir die arbeidsmark is.

Ontmoet Elsabe Lintvelt, die sentrumbestuurder by Wamakers.

Die Wamakersvallei Opleidingsentrum, geleë in die hartjie van Wellington, het sy ontstaan in 1998 gehad toe Irene de Waal, 'n geregistreerde verpleegkundige, die behoefte aan die versorging van bejaardes raakgesien het. Dié opleidingsentrum het die vaardigheidsbou van plaaslike gemeenskapslede ten doel. Die sentrum het begin met tuisversorgingskursusse, en later is baba- en kleutersorg bygevoeg. Met die verloop van tyd is 'n 10-dag kookkursus ook ingesluit. Dié kursus is baie gewild omdat daar geen praktiese assesserings, toetse of eksamens is nie. Geregte word voorberei en daarna geëvalueer. Geskoolde arbeid: Die Wamakersvallei Opleidingsentrum ‘Moet Gekoester Word’

VARS | February

Die sentrum beskik oor die dienste van 17 sprekers wat bestaan uit professionele persone soos dokters, verpleegkundiges, en arbeids- en fisioterapeute wat gratis hul tyd skenk om studente bewus te maak van hoe die wêreld in die werksmark lyk. Wamakers het ook 'n pastorale sielkundige wat gereeld gratis dienste aan die studente bied. “Eintlik is Wamakers soos 'n ‘one-stop shop’ wat navrae oor opleiding betref,” vertel Elsabe. Alle kursusse wat aangebied word, is markgerig en daar word by verskillende leerbehoeftes aangepas waar nodig. Daarby is Wamakers so pas geakkrediteer deur die Gesondheids- en Welsynsektor Onderwys- en Opleidingsowerheid

(HWSETA) en kan voortaan ook leerlingskappe en vaardigheidsprogramme in gemeenskaps- gesondheid aanbied. Wamakers moet gekoester word “Wamakers moet werklik gekoester word deur die plaaslike owerhede, inwoners en besighede,” beklemtoon Elsabe. Dié opleidingsentrum bied dikwels die laaste hoop vir mense. Aangesien daar borgskappe beskikbaar is, gee dit vir die werklose persoon 'n geleentheid wat hy of sy nooit sou gehad het nie. Terugvoering van oudstudente getuig daarvan dat Wamakers ook as 'n “stepping stone” dien vir diegene wat verdere geleenthede of opleiding vir professionele loopbane wil volg. Wamakers is immer afhanklik van fondse en skenkings, en selfs die kleinste bydrae is van groot waarde. Ondersteuning tydens fondsinsamelings en skenkings van enige aard word verwelkom. Voornemende studente kan direk by die sentrum registreer. Nuwe groepe word kwartaalliks ingeneem.

Kontak Elsabe per e-pos elsabe@wamakerstraining.org.za of skakel 021 873 5942 of 086 509 6509.

@drakensteinmunicipality @DrakensteinMunicipality

Kyk net hoe vrolik lyk die Wamakersspan!

VARS | February

Onderrig uit Boeke… én die Hart

Daar is 'n rympie wat lui: “Juffrou, dankie vir kwaaipraat en lag, vir aanpraat en mooipraat en voorpraat, vir pleisters plak en trane afvee…” Liesl Appollis, 'n graad 1-opvoeder by die St. Albans Primêre Skool in Wellington, beaam hierdie juiste woorde wanneer sy vertel dat

onderwysers baie hoede dra. “Jy is nie net 'n opvoeder nie, maar ook 'n dokter wanneer iemand seerkry, 'n sielkundige wanneer iemand sosiale probleme het, 'n skoonmaker wanneer iemand mors, en so kan die lys aangaan,” brei sy uit.

Liesl Appollis streef daarna om haar graad 1-leerlinge se lewens te verryk.

VARS | February

Liesl se voornemens vir die nuwe jaar is om haar leerlinge se lewens te verryk en hulle te motiveer om ten alle tye hul beste te lewer, asook om hul drome uit te leef. Haar wens vir hulle is dat hulle graad 1 moet geniet, “want dit is immers die begin van hul skoolloopbaan”. As onderwyser behels skoolgee nooit nét om in die klas te staan nie, vertel sy. Nie net is dié juffrou betrokke by haar kerk nie, maar veral ook by die Wellington Klopse. Sy vertel dat sy vir dié groep “na 'n lang dag van klopse loop” kos maak. Verder is sy betrokke by funksies in die wyk waar sy ingedeel is, waartydens sy kos en lekkergoedpakkies aan die kinders uitdeel. Liesl se ander verantwoordelikhede sluit in netbalsameroeper: sy is betrokke by mini-netbal en atletiek, sowel as uitstappies, funksies en die gebeurlikheidskomitee se werksaamhede. Sy sê daar is baie soorte projekte waarby onderwysers in hul gemeenskap betrokke kan – en behoort – te raak. Dít sluit in om handjie by te sit by liefdadigheidswerk, skoonmaak-aksies of sosiale projekte waar fondse ingesamel word vir kinders wat nie skoolklere of skryfbehoeftes kan bekostig nie. Dan kan onderwysers ook met leesprojekte help, of selfs help om kinders musikaal op te lei. Die grootste impak wat 'n goeie onderwyser op sy of haar gemeenskap het, is wanneer kinders kan sê dat hulle “hul plekkie in die gemeenskap of in die lewe gevind het,” sê sy. “Dit maak jou as onderwyser trots wanneer hulle sukses behaal.” Liesl Appolis blyk 'n sprekende voorbeeld te wees van die slagspreuk: Sy het geglo sy kan die wêreld verander… toe word sy 'n juffrou!

Met genoeg ondervinding op haar kerfstok – sy het al in 1992 begin skoolhou – wéét Liesl waarvan sy praat. Voor St. Albans, waar sy reeds 22 jaar werksaam is, het sy vir agt jaar by Wellington Primêr voor in die klas gestaan. As graad 1-onderwyseres bied sy Afrikaans, Engels, Wiskunde en Lewensvaardigheid aan. Sy het aanvanklik by die Athlone College haar kwalifikasies verwerf en later, in 2015, 'n B. Ed-graad by die Cape Peninsula University of Technology (CPUT) voltooi.

@drakensteinmunicipality @DrakensteinMunicipality

VARS | February

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