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Good morning, Somerset Westers!
It’s Friday! I hope everybody’s looking forward to the weekend. Unfortunately, it doesn’t look like we’re in for the best weather, but hopefully everyone enjoys it just the same.
Without further ado, grab a cup of coffee, get comfortable, and let’s get right into today’s Scoop!
Gordon’s Bay Road Upgrade Underway
Helderberg Paddler Named Among SA’s Best
Another R2 Petrol Hike Could Be Coming
Somerset West Gardeners, Save the Date
Restaurant of the Week
Local trivia
Events Happening
Weekend’s Weather
-Karl Berger
NEWS
Gordon’s Bay Road Upgrade Underway
A major R373.75 million upgrade of the MR108 (Sir Lowry’s Pass Road) in Gordon’s Bay is currently underway, with the Western Cape Government rebuilding the important route linking the N2 and Gordon’s Bay with Faure Marine Drive.
The project includes reconstructing and widening the road, which has deteriorated over time while carrying increasing volumes of traffic. Dedicated non-motorised transport facilities are also being added for pedestrians and cyclists, with the overall upgrade aimed at improving road safety and easing congestion along the busy corridor.
The MR108 is an important regional route, providing access between Gordon’s Bay and the N2 while also linking motorists travelling towards coastal towns such as Kleinmond, Hermanus and Gansbaai. The current upgrade is scheduled for completion by the end of 2026.
Click here: to read more
Helderberg Paddler Named Among SA’s Best
Helderberg surfski star Kira Bester was nominated for Sportswoman of the Year at the 19th South African Sport Awards, placing her alongside some of the country’s top female athletes. She was nominated alongside Proteas captain Laura Wolvaardt and middle-distance runner Prudence Sekgodiso, who ultimately won the award.
Bester earned the recognition after defending her ICF Canoe Ocean Racing world title in Durban last October. She dedicated that victory to her late coach and mentor, Pete Cole. The South African Sport Awards ceremony took place at the Sun City Superbowl on 23 August under the theme “Crowned by Greatness.”
Although she did not take home the award, Paddle Sport SA praised Bester for raising the profile of ocean paddling in South Africa and continuing to set a high standard in the sport.
Another R2 Petrol Hike Could Be Coming
South African motorists could face the highest petrol prices in the country’s history in October, with early data from the Central Energy Fund pointing to another substantial increase. Petrol 93 is currently showing an under-recovery of around R1.81 per litre, while petrol 95 is sitting at approximately R1.93 per litre.
If current conditions continue, Petrol 95 could rise from R26.92 to around R28.85 per litre, surpassing the previous record of R28.06 reached in June. Diesel could also reach record territory, with 0.005% diesel projected to climb by roughly R2.03 per litre to around R32.08 per litre wholesale.
The biggest pressure is coming from surging international oil prices, with crude approaching $100 a barrel amid continued conflict and supply concerns in the Middle East. A relatively strong rand is providing some relief, but not enough to offset the rise in oil prices. These are still early projections, with South Africa’s official October fuel adjustment only determined later in the month.
Somerset West Gardeners, Save the Date
TimBuild Somerset West is welcoming spring with a week-long relaunch of its Paint & Plant section from Monday, 14 September to Saturday, 19 September. The event will include daily specials, giveaways, product showcases and activities for families.
Throughout the week, shoppers can get 20% off all plants, excluding seedlings, as well as concrete pots and planters. Customers who bring their own pot can also receive free potting soil for one pot. Selected ranges will be 10% off, with different gardening products and suppliers featured each day.
On Friday and Saturday, children can take part in free potting and planting activities, with a jumping castle also available. The week concludes on Saturday with an Ingco Demo Day, showcasing power tools, batteries, hand tools and garden equipment.
Here’s Why Experts Say to Ditch Your Old Cutting Boards
Before you prep another meal, here’s what you need to know:
Plastic boards shed microplastic particles into your food with every cut.
Wooden boards trap moisture and food residue, the perfect breeding ground for hidden bacteria and toxic mold that transfers to your food.
Pajamas and Jam eatery
One of the Helderberg’s Most Unique Breakfast Spots
Hidden away in an industrial part of Strand, Pajamas and Jam eatery is anything but an ordinary café. With its quirky décor, bakery, seasonal menu, and shelves filled with interesting homeware, it’s the kind of place you can easily spend a few hours exploring.
Here’s what you can expect:
Seasonal breakfasts and lunches
Freshly baked breads made in-house
Cakes, croissants, pastries, and other sweet treats
Fresh pasta and daily specials
A shop filled with homeware, pantry goods, and gifts
Cooking classes and special workshops
With a 4.6-star Google rating from more than 4,200 reviews, it’s easy to see why Pajamas + Jam has become such a popular local spot.
📍 32 Van Zyl Street, Strand
Click here: to check out the listing
Did you know? The Lourens River played an important role in the early development of Somerset West, providing a valuable source of freshwater for farms and settlements in the Helderberg.
Long before modern water systems existed, reliable access to rivers was essential. The Lourens River flows from the Hottentots Holland Mountains, through what is now Somerset West and onwards towards False Bay. Its water helped support farming and agriculture as settlement expanded through the area.
Over the centuries, Somerset West grew around this landscape, but the river remained an important natural feature. Today, the Lourens River still winds through the heart of Somerset West, providing a living connection to the landscape that helped shape the town's early history.
Looking For a New Puppy ?
🐶 Meet Bear!
Bear is an adorable 5-month-old puppy who is playful, loving, and full of personality! He’s already potty trained, loves to play, and is always ready to make you smile.
Bear is looking for his forever home where he can be loved, spoiled, and become part of the family. ❤️
🏡 Interested in adopting Bear? Contact Animal Welfare Stellenbosch for more information.
📞 Phone: 021 883 9129
📧 Email: [email protected]
Events coming up this week (7-13 Sep)
Bird Walk | 06:30, September 12
Location: Helderberg Nature Reserve, Somerset West
Description:
Start your Saturday morning surrounded by nature with a guided Bird Walk through the beautiful Helderberg Nature Reserve. Led by experienced guide Charles Britz, the walk is a great opportunity to spot and learn more about the variety of birdlife found throughout the reserve.
From Memphis To Las Vegas: Elvis Presley Tribute | 16:00, September 13
Location: The Drama Factory, Strand
Description:
Celebrate the music and legacy of the King of Rock ’n’ Roll with From Memphis To Las Vegas, an Elvis Presley tribute featuring James Marais and Monique Cassells.
Events coming up next week (14-20 Sep)
An Evening With Adele – Margaux Fouché and Kyle Petersen | 19:30, September 16
Location: The Drama Factory, Strand
Description:
Experience the powerful and emotional music of Adele in this special tribute featuring vocalist Margaux Fouché alongside Kyle Petersen. Drawing on her theatrical background and love of storytelling, Margaux brings a heartfelt interpretation to some of Adele’s most memorable songs.
Buckfever Underground | Jantjie Krog | Kobus en die Bomskokbende | 17:00, September 18
Location: Daisy Jones Bar, Stellenbosch
Description:
Get ready for an evening showcasing some of the most exciting names in alternative Afrikaans music as Buckfever Underground, Jantjie Krog, and Kobus en die Bomskokbende take over the Daisy Jones stage.
African Pet Health Summit 2026 | 08:00 September 19 – 14:00 September 20
Location: Protea Hotel Stellenbosch, Techno Park
Description:
The African Pet Health Summit 2026 brings together pet lovers and those interested in natural approaches to animal health and wellbeing for a two-day event in Stellenbosch.
Geology Introductory Workshop | 08:00–16:00, September 19
Location: Helderberg Nature Reserve, Somerset West
Description:
Discover the fascinating stories hidden within rocks during a full-day introductory geology workshop with Andreas Groenewald at the Helderberg Nature Reserve.
Country, Rhythm & Blues | 17:30, September 19
Location: Lourensford Wine Estate, Somerset West
Description:
Set beneath the majestic Helderberg mountains, Country, Rhythm & Blues promises an unforgettable evening of live music in the beautiful gardens of Lourensford Wine Estate.
Waning Moon Walk | 19:30, September 19
Location: Helderberg Nature Reserve, Somerset West
Description:
Experience the Helderberg Nature Reserve after dark on a special Waning Moon Walk. Enjoy views of the Milky Way while discovering some of the reserve’s nocturnal animals along the way.
