Good morning Somerset westers! I hope everyone had a good weekend. The Boks had a great weekend. Interesting fact, they became the first nation in rugby history to defeat every Six Nations team and every Rugby Championship side in a single 12-month period, so a big congratulations to them.
In other news, well done to Donovan Savage for winning the Woolworths gift card! If you would like to see the drawing take a look at our Facebook page “Somerset West Scoop”.
Now in today’s edition:
Helderberg Search Ends Tragically
Rotary Anns Support Local Animals
Blood Donors Needed Urgently
Activity of the week
Events happening
Monday/ Tuesday’s Weather
-Karl Berger
News
Helderberg Search Ends Tragically
The week-long search for 37-year-old Itumeleng Mekoa has ended in tragedy after his body was discovered in the Helderberg Nature Reserve on Friday, 10 July. Police have opened an inquest as investigations into the circumstances surrounding his death continue.
Mekoa had been hiking alone when communication with a friend suddenly stopped, prompting a large-scale search involving multiple rescue agencies after he failed to return home or report for work. His body was found after several days of intensive searching, although authorities have not yet released further details about the cause of his death.
The tragic outcome has deeply saddened the Helderberg community and serves as a reminder to take extra precautions when hiking alone and to always let others know your planned route.
Click here: to read more about the tragedy
Rotary Anns Support Local Animals
The Helderberg Rotary Anns have donated R10,000 worth of pet food to the Animal Welfare Society (AWS) Helderberg, helping to care for vulnerable dogs and cats during the winter months.
The donation was handed over outside The Dogfather in Somerset West, where AWS inspector Kyle Gerodo thanked the group, saying the contribution would make a meaningful difference to animals in need during the colder season.
The generous gesture highlights the community spirit of the Helderberg and the ongoing support local organisations provide to ensure animals receive the care they need throughout winter.
Blood Donors Needed Urgently
The Western Cape Blood Service (WCBS) is urgently calling on residents to donate blood as O positive and O negative blood stocks remain below the recommended five-day supply during the busy winter period.
Winter illnesses and poor weather have led to fewer donations, while hospitals continue to rely on a steady blood supply for emergencies, surgeries, cancer treatment, and childbirth complications. Only 0.95% of the Western Cape's population are active blood donors, well below the 1–1.2% needed to maintain healthy blood stocks.
The WCBS is encouraging both first-time and regular donors to roll up their sleeves this winter, reminding the public that one blood donation can save up to three lives.
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Spier Wine Farm
One of the Cape Winelands' Most Loved Wine Farms
If you're planning a day out in the Winelands, Spier Wine Farm is one of those places that has something for everyone.
One of South Africa's oldest wine farms, Spier combines award-winning wines, great food, beautiful gardens, and family-friendly activities, making it a popular destination for both locals and visitors.
Here's what you can enjoy:
Award-winning wine tastings
Picnics under ancient oak trees
Beautiful walking trails and gardens
A large collection of South African art
Family-friendly activities, including an adventure play garden
Whether you're visiting for a wine tasting, a long lunch, or a relaxing afternoon outdoors, Spier offers one of the best all-round experiences in the Cape Winelands.
📍 Spier Wine Farm
Click here: To check out Spier
Events coming up this week (13 -19 July)
The Honky Tonk Hoedown | 17:30, July 16
Location: Daisy Jones Bar, Stellenbosch
Description:
Pull on your boots for an evening of country and pop-country fun at The Honky Tonk Hoedown. Enjoy live music, line dancing, and even a mechanical bull rodeo in a lively atmosphere that brings a taste of the Wild West to Daisy Jones Bar.
Karen Zoid | 19:00, July 18
Location: Lourensford Estate, Somerset West
Description:
Experience an intimate live performance by one of South Africa’s most celebrated rock artists as Karen Zoid takes to the stage at Lourensford Estate. Known for her powerful vocals, honest songwriting, and electrifying stage presence, Zoid brings a fresh, stripped-back performance to the atmospheric Lourensford Wine Cellar.
Citrus Festival 2026 | July 18–19
Location: Boschendal, Franschhoek
Description:
Celebrate the return of Boschendal’s much-loved Citrus Festival with a weekend of fresh citrus picking, live music, delicious food, and family-friendly entertainment. Set in the heart of the Cape Winelands, the festival offers visitors the chance to enjoy seasonal produce, outdoor activities, and the vibrant atmosphere of one of the region’s favourite annual events.
Here Be Dragons: Folk 201 | 13:00, July 19
Location: Daisy Jones Bar, Stellenbosch
Description:
Experience an afternoon of captivating folk and Baroque-inspired music as the Here Be Dragons ensemble returns with the next chapter in its musical journey. Blending influences from cultures around the world, Folk 201 offers audiences a rich tapestry of traditional melodies, intricate arrangements, and masterful musicianship.
Events coming up next week (20-26 July)
Winterfest Extreme Beer Festival 2026 | 11:00, July 25
Location: Triggerfish Brewing, Somerset West
Description:
Celebrate winter with Triggerfish Brewing’s annual Winterfest Extreme Beer Festival, a showcase of bold and flavourful craft beers. The festival features an exciting selection of high-strength brews (9% ABV and above), alongside exceptional food, live entertainment, and a lively festival atmosphere.
Karen Zoid Live at Daisy Jones | 19:00, July 25
Location: Daisy Jones Bar, Stellenbosch
Description:
One of South Africa’s most iconic rock artists, Karen Zoid, takes the stage at Daisy Jones for an unforgettable evening of live music. Performing with her full band, expect a high-energy show featuring powerful vocals, fan-favourite hits, and the unmistakable sound that has made her a legend of the local music scene.
