Good morning Somerset Westers! Grab a cup of coffee and lets get right into todays newsletter☕
Did you know?
Tax Hike Warning for High Earners
Western Cape Targets Port Fixes
Homes of the week
Events happening
Wednesday/ Thursday’s Weather
Did you know that Somerset West was once home to one of the largest explosives factories in the world?
The factory, located between Somerset West and Strand, was operated by AECI and produced explosives used in mining and construction across South Africa. At its peak, it was reportedly the second-largest dynamite factory in the world, employing thousands of people and playing a major role in the local economy.
Tax Hike Warning for High Earners
Source: businesstech.co.za
South Africans earning more than R1 million per year could be paying the equivalent of an additional R21,900 per month once various taxes and essential private services are taken into account.
The analysis highlights how costs beyond income tax can significantly impact disposable income.
Key Points:
Additional costs are estimated at R21,900 per month
Includes expenses such as VAT, fuel levies, medical aid, private security, and school fees
High-income earners contribute a large share of South Africa's tax revenue
Concerns remain about the growing pressure on a relatively small tax base
The findings have sparked further discussion about South Africa's overall tax burden and the rising cost of living for many households.
Click here: to read more about tax increases
Western Cape Targets Port Fixes
The Western Cape Government has announced a series of measures aimed at improving efficiency at the Port of Cape Town, one of South Africa's most important trade gateways.
The move comes as businesses and exporters continue to push for faster turnaround times and improved reliability at the port.
Key Points:
Efforts are underway to improve operations at the Port of Cape Town
Focus areas include reducing delays and increasing efficiency
Better port performance is expected to support exporters and local businesses
The initiative forms part of broader efforts to strengthen the Western Cape economy
Improving port operations could help boost trade, support job creation, and make it easier for local products to reach international markets.
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Home 1: Under R2m
Price: R1,754,300
Address: Fernwood / Somerset West
Details: 56 m² / 2 Bed / 1 Bath
Built/Completion: Off-Plan Apartment
Parking: 1 Parking Bay
Extras: No transfer duty, brand-new development, modern finishes, fibre internet, excellent investment opportunity, strong rental demand, high-growth location, ideal for first-time buyers and investors, only 42 apartments in the development, no pets allowed.
Click here: To check out the full listing
Home 2: Between R2m – R4m
Price: R2,399,999
Address: Macassar Road, The Huntsman / Somerset West
Details: 107 m² / 3 Bed / 2 Bath
Built/Completion: Apartment
Parking: 2 Parking Bays
Extras: First-floor apartment, move-in ready, pet-friendly, fibre internet, swimming pool access, secure lifestyle estate living, Lifestyle Centre amenities, Training Science gym, resort-style living, ideal for families and investors.
Click here: To check out the full listing
Home 3: Above R4m
Price: R5,895,000
Address: 39 Royal Road, Kelderhof Country Village / Somerset West
Details: 572 m² / 3 Bed / 2 Bath
Built/Completion: House
Parking: 2 Garages + 2 Parking Bays
Extras: Stylish family home, spacious open-plan living area, exposed trusses and high ceilings, renovated kitchen with gas hob and centre island, main en-suite bedroom, entertainment-focused design, swimming pool, garden, fibre internet, modern finishes, excellent indoor-outdoor flow.
Click here: To check out the full listing
Events coming up this week (22- 28June)
Tjhoko Planter Box Workshop | 11:00–14:00, June 24
Location: Lourensford Wine Estate, Somerset West
Description:
Get creative with a hands-on planter box workshop featuring the popular Tjhoko Paint range.
South African leg of the FEI DWC and ACES Dressage Challenge 2026 | June 26–28
Location: Mistico Equestrian Centre, Paarl
Description:
Watch some of South Africa’s top dressage riders compete in the local leg of the FEI World Dressage Challenge and ACES Dressage Challenge.
Sinatra in the Cellar at Lourensford | 18:30, June 27
Location: Lourensford Wine Estate, Somerset West
Description:
Step into an evening of timeless classics as the Kruger & Tutu Ensemble presents an intimate tribute to Frank Sinatra in the atmospheric cellars of Lourensford Wine Estate.
Events coming up next week (29 June-5 July)
Jungle Book | June 30 – July 11
Location: Corner Lourensford Road & Swalle Street, Somerset West
Description:
Step into the heart of the jungle with this magical stage adaptation of The Jungle Book, inspired by Rudyard Kipling’s beloved story.
PRIME CIRCLE Live at Daisy Jones Bar | 19:00, July 3
Location: Summerhill Wines, Stellenbosch
Description:
One of South Africa’s most iconic rock bands returns to the stage for a powerful live performance at Daisy Jones Bar.
Rumours of Fleetwood Mac at Asara Wine Estate & Hotel | 18:00–22:30, July 4
Location: Asara Wine Estate & Hotel, Stellenbosch
Description:
Experience the music of one of the world's most beloved bands as Rumours of Fleetwood Mac brings the iconic songs of Fleetwood Mac to life in a spectacular tribute performance.
