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Good morning Somerset westers!
Midweek check-in.
Just a few words from us as we prepare for the possibility of upcoming water shortages. Every drop counts, and small changes at home can make a big difference.
Here are three simple ways to save water:
Take shorter showers and turn off the tap while brushing your teeth.
Water your garden early in the morning or late in the evening to reduce evaporation.
Fix leaking taps and pipes as soon as possible—even a slow drip can waste hundreds of litres over time.
Let's all do our part to help protect one of our most precious resources. Have a fantastic day!
In today’s edition:
What's Happening to Our Fish?
The Woman Behind Somerset West's Night Shelter
Tragedy Strikes Strand Community
Homes of the week
Events happening
Wednesday/ Thursday’s Weather
-Karl Berger
News
What's Happening to Our Fish?
Mass fish deaths are becoming increasingly common in South Africa's rivers, dams and coastal waters, prompting growing concern among scientists and conservationists. Experts say there is no single cause, but rather a combination of environmental and human factors placing immense pressure on aquatic ecosystems.
According to researchers, the biggest threats include pollution from sewage and agricultural runoff, low oxygen levels in the water, harmful algal blooms, rising water temperatures, habitat destruction, and invasive species. Climate change is also making fish more vulnerable by increasing water temperatures and reducing oxygen levels, particularly during periods of drought.
Conservationists say improving water quality, reducing pollution, and protecting freshwater ecosystems will be essential to safeguarding South Africa's fish populations and the many communities that depend on them.
Click here: to read more on what is happening to our fish
The Woman Behind Somerset West's Night Shelter
For more than 20 years, Jo Swart has dedicated her life to supporting people experiencing homelessness, helping transform the Somerset West Night Shelter into an organisation that restores hope and dignity to hundreds of vulnerable adults, children and families.
As chairperson for the past 17 years, Swart has overseen the expansion of the shelter's services, including the opening of a Family Shelter in 2020. Today, the organisation provides accommodation for around 80 adults and 50 children, while also supporting day clients through outreach programmes. Plans are also underway to expand the shelter's capacity even further over the next few years.
Recognised as part of Bolander's Women's Month campaign, Swart's unwavering commitment to serving the Helderberg community continues to inspire others and demonstrates the life-changing impact that compassion and dedicated leadership can have.
Tragedy Strikes Strand Community
The Strand community is in mourning after a devastating shack fire claimed the lives of three pre-teen boys in the Pholile informal settlement on the night of 1 August. The blaze also left more than 10 people homeless, with authorities still investigating the cause of the fire.
The victims, aged 10, 11 and 12, were from different families. Ward 86 councillor Xolani Diniso has appealed for donations of clothing, blankets and food to assist the affected families, while the City confirmed that emergency crews responded shortly before midnight and extinguished the blaze.
The tragedy has deeply affected the local community and serves as a reminder of the devastating impact that informal settlement fires can have on vulnerable families.
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The Backpack Everyone Notices
Your backpack says a lot before you even say a word. Find the newest Sprayground collection and start the school year your way.
Home 1: Under R2m
Price: R1,750,000
Address: Paardevlei / Somerset West
Details: 47 m² / 1 Bed / 1 Bath
Built/Completion: Apartment
Parking: 1 Parking Bay
Extras: Exclusive sole mandate, north-facing second-floor apartment, luxury finishes, open-plan living, pet-friendly, swimming pool, fibre internet, gas geyser, ideal for first-time buyers and investors, located in the sought-after Paardevlei Lifestyle Estate.
Click here: to check out the full listing
Home 2: Between R2m – R4m
Price: R3,895,000
Address: Rannoch, Sitari Country Estate / Somerset West
Details: 356 m² / 3 Bed / 2 Bath
Built/Completion: House
Parking: 2 Garages
Extras: Corner home, well-maintained, pet-friendly, garden, fibre internet, established area within Sitari Country Estate, added privacy, ideal for families, professionals or investors, currently tenanted with rental income in place.
Click here: to check out the full listing
Home 3: Above R4m
Price: R6,395,000
Address: Olive Grove / Somerset West
Details: 758 m² / 4 Bed / 3 Bath
Built/Completion: House
Parking: 1 Garage + 4 Parking Bays
Extras: Elevated views, quiet cul-de-sac location, heated swimming pool, large braai and entertainment area, central fireplace, two air conditioners, flatlet with dual-living potential, pet-friendly, garden, fibre internet, solar panels, backup battery/inverter, excellent energy efficiency.
Click here: to check out the full listing
Events coming up this 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.
Events coming up next week (10-16 Aug)
Timo ODV Live at Harleys on Main | 20:00–02:00, August 15
Location: Harleys on Main, Somerset West
Description:
Get ready for an energetic night out as Timo ODV takes the stage at Harleys on Main for an evening of live entertainment, music, and dancing. With the party continuing into the early hours, guests can expect a vibrant atmosphere, great beats, and an unforgettable night in the heart of Somerset West.
