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Did you know?
Helderberg on Alert After Taxi Shootings
Most-Used Social Media Apps in SA
Homes of the week
Events happening
Wednesday/ Thursday’s Weather
Did you know that Somerset West was once famous for its natural hot springs?
Long before modern spas became popular, people travelled to the Helderberg area to enjoy the warm mineral-rich springs believed to have healing properties. Visitors would soak in the naturally heated water to relax and unwind, making the area a popular destination for travellers in the late 1800s and early 1900s.
Although the original hot springs are no longer a major attraction, they played an important role in putting Somerset West on the map as a holiday destination.
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Helderberg on Alert After Taxi Shootings
Police are investigating a series of suspected taxi-related shootings that unfolded across the Helderberg on Tuesday morning, leaving two security guards injured and prompting a major police response.
The incidents occurred in Somerset West, Strand, and Firgrove, with authorities confirming that investigations are underway and that no arrests have been made.
Two security guards travelling in a minibus taxi were wounded after gunmen opened fire on the vehicle, while a second taxi targeted in a separate shooting was later found at a Firgrove service station. Police are also investigating a related shooting near a taxi rank that occurred the previous day.
Authorities say the motive is still under investigation and have not linked the incidents to the 30 June anti-immigration protests.
Click here: to read more about the shootings in Helderberg
Most-Used Social Media Apps in SA
Social media continues to play a major role in the daily lives of South Africans, with Facebook remaining the country's most widely used platform despite growing competition from newer apps.
Research shows that while Facebook leads overall usage, platforms such as TikTok, Instagram, WhatsApp, and YouTube continue to see strong growth across different age groups.
Facebook remains the most-used social media platform in South Africa, followed by WhatsApp, TikTok, Instagram, and YouTube. Younger users are increasingly spending more time on short-form video platforms, while Facebook continues to dominate for community groups, local news, and marketplace activity.
The findings highlight how social media habits are evolving, with South Africans using different platforms for everything from staying informed and shopping to entertainment and keeping in touch with family and friends.
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Home 1: Under R2m
Price: R1,785,000
Address: Somerset West Central / Somerset West
Details: 110 m² / 3 Bed / 2.5 Bath
Built/Completion: Duplex Townhouse
Parking: 2 Parking Bays
Extras: Pet-friendly, open-plan lounge, dining and kitchen, gas stove, built-in cupboards, separate utility room, garden, backup battery/inverter, located in a small, well-maintained complex, ideal for first-time buyers, young families or those looking to downsize.
Click here: To check out the full property
Home 2: Between R2m – R4m
Price: R2,495,000
Address: 38 Pinehurst Estate, 38 Conifer Crescent / Somerset West Central, Somerset West
Details: 263 m² / 3 Bed / 2 Bath
Built/Completion: Townhouse
Parking: 2 Parking Bays
Extras: Exclusive sole mandate, corner unit with only one neighbour, bright open-plan living area, wraparound garden, gas stove, ample kitchen storage, private backyard, pet-friendly, fibre internet, located in a well-maintained and peaceful complex.
Click here: To check out the full property
Home 3: Above R5m
Price: R6,500,000
Address: 94 Abelia Street, Heldervue / Somerset West
Details: 461 m² / 6 Bed / 4 Bath
Erf Size: 1,016 m²
Built/Completion: House
Extras: Exclusive sole mandate, spacious family home with a 2-bedroom flatlet, open-plan living areas, granite kitchen with centre island, swimming pool, study, pet-friendly, fibre internet, water tank, solar panels, solar geyser, backup battery/inverter.
Click here: To check out the full property
Events coming up this 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.
Sip & Paint Afternoon at Du Vin Restaurant | 15:00–18:30, July 3
Location: Du Vin Restaurant, Kanu Wine Farm, Stellenbosch
Description:
Spend a relaxing afternoon painting, sipping, and socialising at Du Vin Restaurant's Sip & Paint event.
Watershed – Live at Lourensford | 19:00, July 3
Location: Lourensford Estate, Somerset West
Description:
Experience an intimate evening with one of South Africa’s most beloved bands as Watershed performs live in the atmospheric Lourensford Wine Cellar.
Quiz Night | 19:00, July 3
Location: Skilpadvlei Wine Farm, Stellenbosch
Description:
Gather your team for an evening of trivia, friendly competition, and great wine at Skilpadvlei Wine Farm's Quiz Night.
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.
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.
Rock Dress Up Party | 18:30, July 4
Location: Gordon's Bay Harbour, Gordon's Bay
Description:
Dress up as your favourite rock legend and enjoy an evening of live music, dancing, and great company at Gordon's Bay Yacht Club.
Events coming up next week (6 July-12 July)
Botanical Drawing Masterclass | 09:30–16:30, July 8
Location: Vergelegen Wine Estate, Somerset West
Description:
Immerse yourself in a full day of botanical drawing at Vergelegen’s beautiful Camellia Garden under the guidance of renowned botanical artist Sally Arnold. This advanced masterclass is designed to help participants refine their observational drawing skills while exploring the beauty and detail of botanical subjects.
Gimme Shelter – A Night of Rolling Stones Music | 19:30, July 9
Location: The Drama Factory, Strand
Description:
Experience the timeless music of The Rolling Stones in this high-energy tribute show at The Drama Factory. Performed by four of Cape Town’s top musicians, the concert celebrates the legendary band's greatest hits with powerful live performances and authentic rock-and-roll energy.
French Fête at Leopard's Leap | 17:00, July 10
Location: Leopard's Leap Wine Estate, Franschhoek
Description:
Celebrate the start of the annual Franschhoek Bastille Weekend with a festive French-inspired evening at Leopard's Leap Wine Estate. Enjoy an atmosphere filled with French flair, exceptional food and wine, live entertainment, and the charm of one of the Cape Winelands' most celebrated events.
Golden Oldies – Performed by Akkedis | 19:00, July 10
Location: Lourensford Estate, Somerset West
Description:
Enjoy an evening of timeless classics as the legendary Akkedis Band brings its popular Golden Oldies show to the Lourensford Wine Cellar. Featuring beloved hits from decades past, the performance promises a nostalgic journey through some of the greatest songs ever recorded.
Franschhoek Bastille Festival | 12:00, July 11
Location: Franschhoek
Description:
Experience the vibrant atmosphere of the annual Franschhoek Bastille Festival, where French heritage meets the best of the Cape Winelands. Enjoy exceptional wine tastings, delicious food, live entertainment, and a lively village filled with French-inspired festivities.
Franschhoek Bastille Boules Tournament | July 11–12
Location: Dutch Reformed Church, Franschhoek
Description:
Join the annual Franschhoek Bastille Boules Tournament for a weekend of friendly competition and community spirit. Teams of three will compete in this traditional French game as part of the Franschhoek Bastille Festival celebrations, with all proceeds supporting the SPCA Franschhoek.
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