Good morning Somerset westers! Another week gone, this time of year the days always seem to fly by. Happy Friday, I hope you have a great weekend.
In today’s edition:
End of an Era for TV Licences
Helderberg Hikers Urged to Take Care
Piano Trio Concert Comes to Helderberg
Community Knits Hope for Hospice
Restaurant of the week
Local trivia
Weekend’s Weather
-Karl Berger
News
End of an Era for TV Licences
The SABC is planning to phase out South Africa's long-standing TV licence system as the broadcaster looks for a more sustainable way to fund its public services. The current system has become increasingly ineffective, with most licence holders no longer paying.
Government and the SABC are considering a new funding model to replace TV licences, although no final decision has been made. The broadcaster says the existing system is no longer financially viable, with around 86% of TV licence holders failing to pay, placing significant pressure on its finances. Any replacement model will still need government approval before it can be introduced.
While TV licences are not ending immediately, the move signals a major shift in how South Africa's public broadcaster could be funded in the future. Existing TV licence requirements remain in place until a replacement system is officially adopted.
Click here: to read more the ending of TV licences
Helderberg Hikers Urged to Take Car
Following two recent incidents in the Helderberg Nature Reserve, the City of Cape Town is urging hikers to plan carefully and choose trails that match their fitness and experience levels.
The reminder comes after a local hiker was rescued following a 15–20 metre fall, while another search sadly ended in tragedy after a solo hiker lost his life. In response, the City has encouraged visitors to hike in groups, check the weather before setting out, carry enough water, warm clothing and a fully charged phone, and let someone know their planned route. More challenging routes such as West Peak and The Dome are recommended for experienced hikers only.
With winter conditions making trails more hazardous, officials are reminding everyone that proper preparation can make all the difference in ensuring a safe and enjoyable hike.
Piano Trio Concert Comes to Helderberg
Classical music lovers can look forward to an afternoon of world-class performances when the Helderberg Village Music Society hosts a piano trio concert on Sunday, 16 August at Talani Terrace, Helderberg Village.
The concert will feature pianist Sue Paterson, violinist Johanna Roos, and cellist Jessica Bailey, performing a programme of celebrated works by Haydn, Brahms, and Shostakovich. The performance begins at 4:00pm, with tickets priced at R130. Non-residents are required to book through Quicket to gain access to the venue.
The event offers the Helderberg community a wonderful opportunity to experience live chamber music performed by some of South Africa's leading classical musicians in an intimate setting.
Community Knits Hope for Hospice
The Helderberg Hospice Squares for Care campaign has exceeded 106,000 knitted and crocheted granny squares, surpassing the previous world record while bringing the community together to support hospice patients.
Launched as part of the hospice's 40th anniversary and Mandela Day celebrations, the campaign saw thousands of contributors from across South Africa create handmade squares that will now be sewn into blankets for patients receiving palliative care. The initiative not only broke records but also provided warmth, comfort, and dignity to people facing serious illness.
The remarkable achievement showcases the generosity of the Helderberg community and demonstrates how a simple act of kindness can make a lasting difference in the lives of those who need it most.
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LUST Bistro & Bakery
Some restaurants are worth visiting for the food alone. Others offer an experience from the moment you arrive.
Nestled on the beautiful Vrede en Lust Wine Estate, Lust Bistro & Bakery has become a favourite for its artisan baking, relaxed atmosphere, and picturesque vineyard setting. LUST Bistro & Bakery
Whether you're stopping in for breakfast, coffee, or a long lunch, it's the kind of place where you'll want to stay a little longer.
A few menu favourites include:
Freshly baked artisan breads and pastries
Wood-fired flatbreads and gourmet pizzas
Charcuterie boards perfect for sharing
Seasonal breakfast and lunch dishes
Homemade cakes, coffee, and local wines
With beautiful views of the surrounding vineyards and a warm, welcoming atmosphere, it's easy to see why so many visitors make it a regular stop in the Winelands.
📍 LUST Bistro & Bakery
Click here: to check out LUST
🏛️ Did You Know? Vergelegen Was Ordered to Be Demolished
One of Somerset West's most treasured landmarks came remarkably close to disappearing forever.
In the early 1700s, Governor Willem Adriaan van der Stel transformed Vergelegen into one of the Cape's most impressive estates. In just six years, he built a grand homestead, planted around 500,000 grapevines, established orchards, reservoirs and water channels, and created what was considered one of the finest farms in the Dutch East India Company's territories.
However, his success also brought controversy. After being accused of corruption and abusing his position to benefit his private estate, Van der Stel was recalled to the Netherlands in 1706. The Dutch East India Company wanted to make an example of him and ordered that Vergelegen be broken up into separate farms. Even more dramatically, they instructed that the magnificent homestead be demolished, declaring that Company officials should build "for use, and not for show."
Historians still debate exactly how much of that order was carried out. While parts of the original buildings were dismantled or altered, the homestead itself survived in some form and passed through the hands of several owners over the centuries. It was later restored and preserved, allowing future generations to enjoy one of the Western Cape's finest examples of Cape Dutch architecture.
Today, when you walk through Vergelegen's gardens or admire the historic manor house, you're looking at a place that, by all rights, was supposed to have vanished more than 300 years ago. Had the demolition order been fully carried out, Somerset West would have lost one of its most iconic and historically significant landmarks.
Information from: South African History online and Vergelegen.
Events coming up this week (27 July-2 Aug)
Jack Parow, Van Pletzen & Die FakBoiz Live | 17:00, August 1
Location: Daisy Jones Bar, Stellenbosch
Description:
Get ready for an unforgettable afternoon as South African music icons Jack Parow, Van Pletzen, and Die FakBoiz take over the stage at Daisy Jones Bar. Expect high-energy performances, crowd-favourite hits, and an electric atmosphere as three of the country's biggest acts deliver an explosive live show.
GBYC 80's Party | 19:00, August 1
Location: Gordon's Bay Yacht Club, Gordon's Bay
Description:
Step back in time for a night of retro fun at the GBYC 80's Party. Dress in your favourite 80s outfit, hit the dance floor, and enjoy an evening packed with classic hits, great company, and nostalgic vibes at Gordon's Bay Yacht Club.
Time Travellers Tease | 20:00, August 1
Location: The Drama Factory, Strand
Description:
Embark on a dazzling journey through the history of burlesque with Time Travellers Tease at The Drama Factory. Follow the adventurous Katja VX as she explores iconic eras of glamour, performance, and playful tease in a captivating production that blends storytelling, comedy, dance, and dazzling costumes.
Events coming up next week (3-9 Aug)
L’Ermitage Wellness Retreat with Gigi | August 3–8
Location: L’Ermitage Franschhoek Château & Villas, Franschhoek
Description:
Escape to the Cape Winelands for six days of relaxation, renewal, and personal growth at the L’Ermitage Wellness Retreat with Gigi. Set against the tranquil backdrop of Franschhoek, this immersive retreat is designed to help you reconnect with yourself through a carefully curated programme of wellness activities, mindfulness, and restorative experiences.
Any Dream Will Do – André Schwartz | 19:30, August 5
Location: The Drama Factory, Strand
Description:
Acclaimed South African performer André Schwartz presents Any Dream Will Do, a heartfelt celebration of the timeless music of Andrew Lloyd Webber. Renowned for his performances in numerous Webber productions, Schwartz brings his exceptional vocals and storytelling to an evening featuring beloved songs from some of the world's most iconic musicals.
The Next Chapter: Property Choices & Estate Planning for the Future | 17:30, August 6
Location: Strand Golf Club Driving Range & Putt Putt Course, Strand
Description:
Gain valuable insights into planning your next property move at this informative evening hosted by Harcourts Platinum. Whether you're considering downsizing, rightsizing, investing, or planning your estate for the future, this session offers practical guidance to help you make informed decisions.
Bruce Springsteen Tribute Show | 20:30, August 8
Location: Triggerfish Brewing, Somerset West
Description:
Experience the timeless music of Bruce Springsteen in an intimate tribute performance at Triggerfish Brewing. Performed by Radio Echo featuring Jack Stone, the show captures the emotion, storytelling, and iconic sound of The Boss through heartfelt renditions of his greatest hits.
Sip, Savour & Sisterhood | 12:00–16:00, August 8
Location: Krystal Beach Hotel, Gordon's Bay
Description:
Gather your friends for an afternoon of elegance, great company, and unforgettable experiences at Sip, Savour & Sisterhood. Hosted at the beautiful Krystal Beach Hotel, this stylish event brings together fine wine, delicious food, and a welcoming social atmosphere designed to celebrate friendship and community.
Galpalooza 2026 | 12:00–23:00, August 9
Location: Daisy Jones Bar, Stellenbosch
Description:
Celebrate Women's Day at Galpalooza 2026, a vibrant one-day festival dedicated to honouring the incredible women of South Africa's music and creative scene. Hosted at Daisy Jones Bar, the festival features an exciting lineup of live performances, creative talent, and a welcoming atmosphere where everyone is invited to join the celebration.
