platinum gazette 1 april 2011
DESCRIPTION
Local newspaper for Burgersfort, Steelpoort, Ohrigstad, Jane Furse and surrounding villages in Limpopo Province, South Africa.TRANSCRIPT
email: [email protected]@platinumgazette.com
Platinum GazettePlatinum GazetteTel 0832719151 (Editorial); 0835431676 (Advertisements)Fax 0865549031/013-231 7147
Burgersfort, Steelpoort, Ohrigstad, Jane Furse
1 April 2011
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‘They klapped us’The protest at Xstrata Alloys’ Lion plant nearSteelpoort turned ugly on Wendesday nightwhen Police shot rubber bullets at a largegroup of people at the crossing of the R555between Eerstegeluk and Lannex Mine.Platinum Gazette bumped into theorganisers of the protest at the GreaterTubatse Municipality’s building inBurgersfort earlier on Wednesday(photograph).
They just emerged from the building,upset because the municipality did not want
to approve the protest action they plannedfor yesterday outside the Lion smelter. “Wedo not understand why they do not want toapprove it, we are going ahead with theprotest. We have given Xstrata twomemorandums, one on 21 February and onelast week.
We did not receive a satisfactoryresponse to one of them. Our protest is notpolitical, we do not know why Xstrata wantsto involve politicians in a meeting with us.We do not want to talk to politicians, the
company must communicate with us in amore effective way”.
Groups for the planned protest startedgathering on Wednesday evening, with alarge group moving by foot from Eerstegeluktowards Lion, with about 20 taxi’s in tow,also full of protesters.
At the Lannex crossing they wereawaited by a large contingent of Police.According to one of the organisers, thePolice started shooting at the group withrubber bullets to disperse them. “We just ran
to get away, some of the taxi’s were also hitwith windows broken. They did not warn us.”A taxi driver also spoke to Platinum Gazette,confirming what happened “men women andeven children, it was a very large group ofpeople. The Police did not use teargas” hesaid.
When the newspaper drove past theLannex crossing just after 05:00 onThursday, the Police were still gatheredthere, stopping buses and taxis, only lettingcars through on the route. Lion smelter wasoperating as normal behind the electricfence around the plant, with only anarmoured vehicle from a security companynext to the road, while at the steel bridge atthe Jane Furse turn-off a police vehicle ortwo were also present. At about 06:00 trafficwere flowing normal on the road, while thebiggest group of Police at Lannex alsodispersed.
After last week’s article Xstrata issuedthe following statement by e-mail: “Xstratanotes with regret the events of the pastweek at Lion Ferrochrome. Project Lion isan important investment in the growth of themining sector in Sekhukhuni (sic) and thecountry as a whole. It is Xstrata’s intentionfor the area and its citizens to benefit asmuch as possible while delivering the projecton time and on budget.
To resolve the matters raised, Xstratahas sought the partnership and help of localand provincial government in resolving theissues raised in the protest. Xstrata is eagerto find lasting solutions together withstakeholders that will see the projectproceeding without delay, and opportunitiesfor local participation through employmentand local procurement being communicatedand implemented throughout the projectperiod.
It is also important to note that theopportunities for local participation willextend beyond the construction period” saidMr Songezo Zibi, corporate affairs manager.
Mr Zibi told the newspaper that ameeting was scheduled at Lion today(Friday) between all stakeholders. By thetime of going to press yesterday it was notsure if this meeting would continue after theearlier incident.
2 NEWS 1 APRIL 2011
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Postal address: P O Box 2208, Burgersfort, 1150
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THULA UMTHWALOADMINISTRATORS
The inauguration of the District Local Houseof Traditional Leaders was concludedsuccessfully on Friday the 25th March 2010.
Nearly all traditional leaders from acrossLimpopo Province converged at Ga-Motodioutside Praktiseer in Greater Tubatse LocalMunicipality. The Inauguration of the DistrictLocal House of Traditional Leaders inSekhukhune District Municipality followedthat of the Provincial House held earlyMarch in Vhembe District Municipality.
In his address, the Executive Mayor ofSekhukhune District Municipality, CllrMogobo David Magabe reiterated that“Chapter 11 of the Constitution states thatthe institution, status and roles of traditionalleadership, according to customary law, arerecognized, subject to the Constitution.Government remains committed tostrengthening the institution of traditionalleadership and appreciates the role it playsin society “.
The District Local House of TraditionalLeaders is headed by Kgoshi Ramaube asits Chairperson and Kgoshi Kgoloko as hisdeputy and other four traditional leaders whotogether forms the Executive Committee.
Cllr Magabe paid tribute to all thetraditional leaders who took part in thestruggle against white domination.
King Sekhukhune I, King Mampuru I andKing Nyabela of Amandebele werementioned in this regard. Cllr Magabe addedthat Sekhukhuneland will always be a placeof a rich and profound struggle and culturalhistory and that the people of Sekhukhuneunder the leadership of traditional leadershave contributed in shaping the politicallandscape and the history of South Africa.
More than three thousand communitymembers attended the ceremony, which wasalso graced by ZCC Brass Band whichprovided spiritual entertainment. Report onthe provision of basic services to the 1,2million people of Sekhukhune DistrictMunicipality also formed a reasonable partof the presentation by the Executive Mayor.He said “We know that government hasdone well in the provision of water,sanitation, electricity, roads, health care,housing and other necessities. But we agreethat more still needs to be done under the
leadership of the ANC led government”, heconcluded.
The Executive Mayor also spoke aboutthe recent protest action by the people ofGa-Mampuru and surrounding villages toXstrata mine.
“While we understand the plight of ourpeople amid growing joblessness, hungerand disease, we wish to take thisopportunity to condemn the violent behaviorthat accompanied their march. We say actsof damaging properties, burning of tyres,blockading of roads, intimidation of otherpeople, and violence is purely criminal”.
However, a humble appeal was madethat this is a challenge that government,traditional leaders, mining houses, and thepeople should work together to solve. TheExecutive Mayor also spoke about the needto contribute to the provincial target of fourhundred thousand jobs of the five millionnational target in 2020.
The mayor said the Sekhukhune DistrictMunicipality will always value thefundamental role played by traditionalleaders in strengthening democracy.
The Sekhukhune District Municipalcouncil has adopted policies that entrenchessystematic support offered to traditionalleaders. Traditional leaders participate incouncil and its structures like the portfoliocommittees. He said the African NationalCongress is the only party that recognizestraditional leaders and their communities onissues of consultation and participation.However, growing number of squattercamps across the district is a seriousconcern to the District Municipality and CllrMagabe urged traditional leaders to worktogether with government on issues ofspatial development and land usemanagement.Other issues raised were:
· The need to contribute towardsTsate Heritage site and its planned annuallecture,· The need to encouragecommunities to use the bursary schemeavailable for learners of the district,· The need to be part of alldevelopmental programmes of government,and· The need to hold governmentaccountable as a democratic system ofgovernment.
In conclusion, traditional leaders have beenurged to encourage people to take part inthe upcoming local government elections.
District Local House ofTraditional leadersinaugurated
Steelpoort based private security firm Thorburn Security Solutions honoredachievers at Modikwa Platinum Mine at an awards function held on 25 March2011 attended by some 40 security officers
In his address to the Thorburn staff the Modikwa Platinum ProtectionServices Leader Darren McDonald praised the work done by the Thorburnsecurity officers, but cautioned that safety must never be neglected. His addressfocused on safety and the role security has to play in enforcing sound safetyprinciples.
He urged security staff to set the example. Thorburn Managing Director DolfScheepers emphasized the importance of “Passion and Commitment” in the life ofachievers in business. He praised the good work that was done and explained howeasily “mishaps” and poor performance influences the image of a company.
In line with the concept of women in mining was one of the top performers alsoa female security officer who excelled in achieving service excellence inoperations. As part of a developmental path is she now appointed asadministrative assistant to the security manager.
In December 2010 a similar awards function was held for achievers at theSamancor Eastern Chrome Mines and Tubatse Plant in Steelpoort.
The Thorburn Security Steelpoort based Operations Manager, EllenceMonyela, attributes the successes of his staff to the recruitment and initialcompetency assessments done by the local Mining Security Training Officer basedin Steelpoort. “This is obviously supported and backed by a strong managementteam with staff motivated through awards, cash bonuses for success and overallimproved benefits compared to the industry but a leadership rather thanmanagement approach, ” Monyela emphasized.
Thorburnrewards achievers
Local Thorburnsecurity managerRackson Ramaroka(right) congratulatestop security officerJames Mametja (left)on his achievementand the fridge that hereceived as hisreward.
Photo right is DarrenMcDonald withCharlotte Teffo, a topperforming securityofficer.
3NUUS1 APRIL 2011
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Campaign againstdrug abuse atItirele Primary
Captain Mokotlana Kgasago of the Tubatse Police visited Itirele Primary Schoolin Praktiseer last week Thursday to trell learners more about drugs and thedangers of drug abuse.
The captain told them drugs are substances that some people smoke or drinkand can affect the mind and people can get addicted to it. Dagga, alcohol,caffeine, heroin, mandrax, ecstasy and cocaine. Drugs such as alcohol andcaffeine are legal and others are illegal. Drugs can be swallowed (pills), smoked,inhaled or injected. She said drugs can lead the person to die or to change hisor her mind, stressing that drugs are dangerous, if you take drugs, you are atgreat risk becoming addicted.
Captain Kgasago said school children and students who use drugs find ithard study or complete assignments, and relationships invitably suffer. Toomuch of a powerful drug like heroin causes the body system to shut down,eventually leading to death.
Nkwe Platinum says it has been made aware of comments made by African RainbowMinerals (ARM) and its Modikwa Deeps equity partner AngloPlatinum Ltd (Anglo) in respectto their intention to pursue (with Anglo) a challenge on the issue of nine (9) Platinumexploration farms including the five (5) farms awarded to Nkwe’s black economicempowerment partner, Genorah Resources by the South African Department of Mineralsand Energy in 2006.
Nkwe says it has made an unequivocal response that the matter (as it applies to theGaratau and Tubatse Projects) was, in its view, (supported by legal opinion) resolvedbetween all relevant parties in February 2008 (as previously announced and publicallyreleased by all parties). Nkwe says the assertion by ARM and Anglo that they intend to takefurther action has now meant that Nkwe has no choice but to further respond.
Nkwe says its considers the current purported action by the parties to be disingenuousand vexatious and is designed to do nothing more than gain some perceived commercialadvantage in negotiations with the DMR, Genorah and Nkwe to reach a commercialsettlement of a dispute which has already been settled.
Nkwe has instructed its lawyers to pursue a vigorous defence against any action formallycommenced by ARM/ Anglo and will update the market accordingly once (if) this process isinitiated. As as yet Nkwe is not a party to any action (despite being the registered holder of a74% interest in the Garatau Project and 64% of the Hoepakrantz farm).
Nkwe will fight
4 NEWS 1 APRIL 2011
Die Dames van die AGS Steelpoort Gemeente, het onlangs besoekafgelê by Dilokong Hospitaal.Elke pasient van die Pediater - en Kraam Afdeling, is bedien metgebed en ‘n klein persentjie. Die vroue beplan om gereeld dieHospitaal te besoek.Almal is welkom om volgende keer saam te kom!Kontak Sunlie Sales by 076 525 9819
Vroue kuier bypasiënte in
Dilokong HospitaalAGS Steelpoort Gemeente, het Sondag 27Maart, ‘n uitreikingna Pastoor Chris Phokose Gemeente, in Riba Cross gehou.Na ‘n Geesvervulde Boodskap is diegemeente bedien met gebed, en ook bederfmet lekkernye (worsbroodjies enlekkergoed vir die kinders). Die gemeentehet ook klere saamgeneem wat onderPastoor Phoku se gemeentelede verspreisal word.Daar is lekker saam gekuier in ‘n Christelikeatmosfeer.Vir die kerk is die uitreik na ander Christenenet so belangrik as die bereiking vanongelowiges. Die vroue het ook gedurendedie afgelope maand by Dilokong Hospitaalgaan kuier om so ‘n hand van hulp engebed uit te reik na die wat siek is.
AGS Steelpoort reikuit na Riba Cross
Alle foto’s op hierdie bladsy is deur dieAGS Kerk verskaf.
5NUUS1 APRIL 2011
6 NEWS 1 APRIL 2011
The Big Brother Project was started in 2009 andis intended to be a series of opportunities forstimulating and uplifting the young people in thedirect vicinity of Tubatse Ferrochrome. Theproject focuses on giving frank and accessibleinformation to young people so that they canmake informed decisions about career andsubject choices and can apply themselves,where they need to in the scholasticenvironment, if they would like to be the futureemployees of Tubatse Ferrochrome.On the first leg of the project, schools visitedTubatse Ferrochrome. They learned more aboutthe career opportunities at Tubatse Ferrochromeand also about the science behind the productionprocess itself.The first visit was held during National ScienceWeek, when Tubatse hosted learners from threeschools from the Jane Furse Area for aninformation day. The day was for 60 learners,from Grades 8 to 12, from the various schools.The learners were shown an overview of theentire workings at Tubatse, with eachdepartment clearly explaining how their processworks.The learners participated in the question andanswer session with great enthusiasm, whilefeeling the samples and holding the rawmaterials. They were spellbound by thecomplexity and enormity of the operations atTubatse.The production team then took thelearners on a tour of the plant.After the tour the learners returned to the traininghall to collect their much needed refreshmentsand a gift from the Big Brother Project. Eachlearner received a very “funky” Big Brother capto take home with them. This small token will,undoubtedly, be a large reminder of the workthat they need to put in if they want to aspiretowards a career at Tubatse.The second group of learners to visit Tubatsewas those from Steelpoort Academy who cameto visit as part of a Natural Sciences theme thatthe learners were studying on Mineral resources.These learners were also taken on a bus tour ofthe plant and in the end returned to school, alittle wiser, with cool drink in the hand and theirspecial gifts from the Big Brother project.The final, and more long-term, leg of the BigBrother Project was launched on the 6th ofMarch 2010. This leg of the project will be theteaching of extra classes in Mathematics andthe Sciences and is aimed at helping HighSchool students in the Tubatse area to improvetheir marks in, and understanding of, the subjectsof Mathematics and the Sciences.After a lengthy process of recruitment, and withthe helpful guidance and assistance ofCurriculum Advisors from the Department ofEducation, two educators have been chosen torun this program on Saturday mornings.Tubatse will be covering the costs of theSaturday classes and five Learners from eachof the participating schools have been chosento attend from Grades 10, 11 and 12.The numbers have been limited to 20 in a classduring the pilot stages of the project so that thelearners are able to receive one on one attentionand the organisers of the project can gaugewhether or not it can be extended. A total of 60learners will be catered for.We at TFC view the project as an investment inthe future of the company as we are educatingthe engineers and future employees of ourcompany while uplifting the community at large.
“Big Brother” to the young people
In January 2010, a brand new and moreefficient water pipeline was laid in theTukakgomo community area as part ofTubatse Ferrochrome’s Corporate SocialInvestment Program.The completed pipeline was officiallyopened and handed over to the communityleaders and tribal representatives in aceremony held at the Tukakgomo Educa-tional facility, another of TFC’s Community
projects, in the area.The new pipeline will only be used for thetransportation of household water, at a highpressure, from the water source to thereservoir on a hill at Tukakgomo. Theoriginal pipeline, built by Tubatse 30 yearsago was no longer adequate. The old pipewill, from now on, only take water from thereservoir into the villages.Representatives from the municipality, the
tribal authority, and members of thecommunity, voiced their thanks toTubatse for its contribution towardssocial upliftment in the area andemphasised how important it is, tolocal community, that Tubatse isalways willing to support the commu-nity by improving living conditions foreveryone.
Precious water for the area
In February 2010 Tubatse showed how proudwe are to be involved in all sorts of communityendeavors and not just those projects thataddress an academic need.When Mrs. Mashifane, the Arts and CultureTeacher at Kgahlanong High School,approached the Corporate Social Investment(CSI) committee at Tubatse and asked for ourhelp in sponsoring a piano and some recorderinstruments, for the choir to practice with andfor the learners to learn on, it was seen by allat TFC as a wonderful opportunity to empowerthe young people in becoming fully-roundedindividuals—both musically and academically!A brand new Casio piano, which will be usedfor the musical instruction of all of the learnersat Kgahlanong High School, was purchasedalong with 60 recorders, which make an ideal‘starter’ instrument for young people to learnon.
Making sweet musicat Kgahlanong
Tubatse is always very proud to acknowledge those who havecome through our learnership programme successfully. A total of37 learners completed their artisan qualifications in time tograduate on the 9th of December last year. Tubatse hosted arelatively casual graduation ceremony, in their honour, and awardswere given to those who truly excelled in their respective areas.TFC made awards in the following areas: Student of the Year (P EMalapane), Student of the Month June (I Tshehla), Student of theMonth July (K S Motswiyane), Student of the Month September (TM Mosotho) and Student of the Month November (P E Malapane).Then, in a surprise move, the Middleburg (MMTI) also sponsoredfour awards of their own and were quoted as saying that theTubatse apprentices were “…the best of they had ever trained…”The awards were given to the best student in each of the followingdisciplines: Electrical (P E Malapane), Boilermaker (N M Ndlala),Fitting (T B Maboa), and Overall Student of the year (P EMalapane).
Qualified artisansthrough learnerships
Mr Desmond McManus, General Manager ofTubatse Ferrochrome and Limpopo MEC forAgriculture, Mme Dipuo Letsatsi-Duba.
Last year Samancor Tubatse Ferrochrome officially opened its new5-million-litre-a-day (5 000m3/day) integrated wastewater treatmentplant, near Steelpoort, Limpopo.Samancor Chrome acquired the Tubatse plant in 2002 from itsprevious owners, BHP Billiton. In 2005, it became apparent that thegroundwater aquifer below the plant was polluted due to historicash deposits leaching into the groundwater system during the wetseasons of the past 28 years of operation.The Water Treatment Plant was designed to ensure that water isrecycled as much as possible and that no contamination willhappen in the future. The Company has also been doingrehabilitation on the historic pollution.In November 2010 the plant was officially opened by Mme DipuoLetsatsi-Duba, the Limpopo MEC for Agriculture.
Water treatmentplant opened
Here in words, in pictures see how they are community involved...
7NUUS1 APRIL 2011
Modikwa ensures skillsdevelopment and educationwithin the surroundingcommunity, by encouragingleaner’s to gain confidencethrough participating in the Backto School programme that hasidentified leaner’s with a need forschool uniforms. The Mine hastaken responsibility of ensuringthat those kids get the desireduniforms to encourage a cultureof learning and reading. This willresults in a well developed andeducated community which willbe able to take full responsibilityof its own communitydevelopment.
Modikwa hand overSchool uniforms
Mr. Sean O’Connor,BusinessLeader, highlighted theimportance of communitydevelopment and furtherindicated Modikwa’s supporttowards theOrphans ofMandaghoek Home BasedCare. On this day ModikwaPlatinum Mine handed overthe School uniforms thatincluded shoes, trousers/skirtsand shirts. This programmehas benefited 80 leaners fromthe following schools;Phutinare High School,Setlopong Primary and MaroleHigh School.
ModikwaValues their communities
Modikwa Platinum mine has several programmesinitiated and undertaken to improve the socio-economic conditions and the infrastructure of localcommunities. The most prominent and notable ofwhich being the development of transportinfrastructure through the Mandagshoek Road whichstretches from the Driekop T-Junction to the HCBoshoff hospital. The project commenced in Februarylast year and is due to be completed by the middle ofApril 2011.The construction company has encountered somechallenges which were addressed through theassistance of Makgoshis, i.e community utilizing theRoad while still under severe construction.The community adhered to requests from theMakgoshi to adhere to road signs as well as to keepoff the half-constructed road. Modikwa Platinum mineis proud to announce that irrespective of thosechallenges “Re ka gona, we Care”, hence this monthwe will able to hand over the Road to the Municipalityand the Community.This project has a total investment of R 63 720 099.00
Modikwa PlatinumMine completed
Maandagshoek roadModikwa mine would like to call upon the community ofMaandagshoek and its surrounding areas to work closelywith the Mine in executing their entire community Socio-economic development project and take ownership of thisdevelopment. When it is handed over, the project belongto them, not to Modikwa.
8 NEWS 1 APRIL 2011
Did you know?• ECM contributed to water projects at
Makgemeng, Bogwasha, Ga-Mampuru,Ga-Mashishi, Ga-Manyaka andDiporwaneng
• ECM provided paving skills to more than15 unemployed community members.
• ECM invested in leadership skills develop-ment at Makgemeng, Ga-Mampuruand Phasha.
On 20 January 2011, Doornbosch Mine, on behalfof Samancor Eastern Chrome Mines, donated foodhampers to a Civil Society Development Initiative(CSDI) based in Riba Cross. Their main objectivesof the initiative were:1. To promote social support to communities
where the prevalence of HIV/AIDS ishigh
2. To identify bedridden clients who needcare
3. To identify child headed families4. To offer physical and emotional care for
bedridden people and5. To provide food to orphans and vulnerable
children
Samancor, EasternChrome Mines (ECM)providing food hampersto the needy
Samancor, Eastern Chrome Mines(ECM) supporting the schools
In the first two weeks of school, Samancor, Eastern Chrome Mines issued2000 pencil cases to local schools. Grade R and Grade 1 learners weretargeted.
The District Athletics Championshipshosted by Samancor Eastern Chrome(ECM), was organized by the departmentof Sports Art and Culture in conjunctionwith the Department of Education (DistrictLevel). Technically the event was hostedby Mangabane Primary school, whichrequested ECM to accommodate the eventdue to lack of suitable facilities at theirschool. The event was a culmination of aseries of Regional competitions consistingof track and field events for primaryschools around the Sekhukhune District.The estimated number of participants were600 and 81 officials attended. Six Clustersfrom Sekhukhune District were present.The chairperson of the Cluster Mr.Motubatse was impressed with thearrangements and the venue, and thankedECM for their contribution. HR Manager,Pieter Brits, indicated that SamancorEastern Chrome Mines is proud to beassociated with the support of localschools.
ECM Cares
9NUUS1 APRIL 2011
To have a government newspaper or not?
Mr Moses Maloka said: “I don’t see thepoint of them having a governmentnewspaper. Negatives will still bereported in the other media. Use themoney for job creation and povertyalleviation it will be better spend than ona newspaper. What value will SouthAfricans get? We already have capablepeople running newspapers”.
Mr Mawande Mdunywa said: “Theyshould buy their own page every week inall the local newspapers. They reach farmore people. Standardise it. It willsupport the local businesses and whennewspapers have that income they canemploy and train more journalists - whichis job creation. The rest of the moneythey would have spend on their papershould be used for service delivery”.
Ms Gloria Motshoane said: “There shouldbe something like that. They should havetheir own newspaper”.
Me. Cindy Baxter sê: “Sit eerderbyvoegsels in bestaande koerante engebruik my belasting geld om die paaiereg te maak”. By haar is Kaylene.
Mr Daniel Malema and Mr Collin Manyaka said: “It is a goodthing, but on the other side you don’t want to take money awayfrom service delivery”.
Mr Blessing Luthuli said: “They must re-think it. It is going tocost a lot of the tax payers’ money. They will end up likeZimbabwe with only propaganda. They must buy spaceelsewhere and be able to take critisism”. With him are Samkeloand Saneli.
Mnr. Kobus Raubenheimer sê: “Nee,hulle moet die plaaslike koeranteondersteun en eerder aandag gee aandienslewering. Wend die geld beter aan”.
Mnr. Herman Combrinck sê: “Nee, baiejammer dit gaan nie werk nie. Het hulledie geld? Wie gaan dit lees? In watter taalgaan dit wees?”
Mr Mandla Xaba said: “It has ups anddowns. Most of the stuff reported arenegative, it will do them good to get theexposure but there are cheaper ways. Postdaily articles on the web. And use themoney to create jobs for people like me”.
Mr Bongani Nkosi said: “The press musthave freedom. They will just promotetheir own agenda”.
Mnr. Herman Greeff sê: “Dink net virhoeveel minderbevoorregtes kan hullehelp. Ondersteun liewer die bestaandekoerante deur bylaes en sulke goed”.
Mnr Jacques Calvert sê: “Dis nie ‘n goeieding nie. Wie gaan na ons nuus kyk? Watgaan dit kos? Gee ons nie al genoeg geldvir die regering nie?”
Mr Trywell Sharrif said: “It will be good forthem, but they must rather use existingnewspapers. They must not use a lot ofmoney to have a newspaper”.
Me. Christien Greyling en mnr. HannoPool sê: “Nee, hulle moenie dit doen nie.Vat eerder my belasting geld en maak diepaaie reg of bou huise”. By hulle isCharlize.
Government is planning to issue theirown newspaper on a monthly basis.This is one of the plans to counternegative reporting as well as to ensurethat statements and press releases arepublished in a way that appeals togovernment.To publish this newspaper, they will haveto fork out an estimated R1 million perissue. They will print 2 million copies thatwill be dished out around the country.These new printing plans have comeunder critisism as statistics showed that51% of independent newspapers did notsurvive the last two years during therecession. Many people now saygovernment should rather back thesebusinesses and create employmentthrough their support.We asked readers whether they thoughthere is a place for such a governmentnewspaper and what their ideas aroundit was.
10 NEWS 1 APRIL 2011
Kitsgids na jou SAPD/Important numbers:
Burgersfort (013) 231 7231Ohrigstad (013) 238 0128Roossenekal (013) 273 0075Mecklenburg (015) 615 0204Eerstegeluk (013) 237 0011Tubatse (013) 216 8500Sekhukhune (013) 260 1007Leboeng (013) 769 9099Maartinshoop (013) 235 4041
Ander nood/Other emergencies:Dilokong Hospitaal/Hospital (013) 2147265Mecklenburg Hospitaal/ Hospital (013) 615 0204Burgersfort Kliniek/Clinic (013) 2317843Water & Sanitation 082 900 4449Disaster Management -(Ambulance & Fire) 0800 330 022Electricity (Eskom) 0860 037 566
Dagboek / DiaryTo submit your diary entry. Fax or e-mail all the details to us at (fax) 013 231 7147 or (e-mail)[email protected]. This is a free service.
Op-en-Wakker Groep vir bejaardesOp Ohrigstad verkoop die Op-en-Wakker Groep vir bejaardes hou elke laaste Vrydag van diemaand pannekoek- en vetkoekverkope by die Pure Plaas stalletjie. Al die geld wat hulle in dieeerste deel van die jaar ingesamel het, het gegaan vir liefdadigheid. Nou werk diebejaardes om geld in te samel vir hul toer na die Kaap.
Dale Hayes - Super Sport Golf DayThis event will take place Tubatse Chrome Golf Club and it will be televised shortly afterthe day on Super Golf. Only 64 places are available, so join us and book your spacenow. When: 1 June 2011. Format: Better Ball Stable Fort. Shotgun start at 10:45. Afterplay: Dale Hayes Trick Shot Clinic. Formalities includes dinner which will take place at18:00. Entry fee: R470. Your booking will only be confirmed once your R470 has beenpaid. Contact: Martin van Rooyen, 082 816 4833.
Hoërskool Lydenburg reüinieDie Hoërskool Lydenburg matrieks van 1961 beplan om hierdie jaar hul 50 jaar reüinie tehou. Almal van daardie jaar word versoek om met Henry Erasmus in verbinding te tree.Hy kan bereik word by 083 276 7873 of 015 307 4550 or [email protected]
Junior Golf Clinic
On 1 and 2 April a Junior Golf Clinic will be held at Tubatse Chrome Club. All young boysand girls are welcome to attend this clinic. The Club is aiming at developing new talentand would like to enhance the sport in the area.To find out more about this call Martin van Rooyen on 082 816 4833.
Express your opinion. Write a letter to the Platinum Gazette. Letters maybe e-mailed, posted or faxed. Contact details are on page 2 of this issue.
Letters / Briewe
Laerskool Ohrigstad GolfdagLaerskool Ohrigstad hou op 7 Mei hulle jaarlikse gholfdag by Tubatse Chrome Club.Groot pryse is op die spel. Die formaat is ‘n ‘2 ball alliance’. Een speler sal ook die dagsaam met Fanie de Villiers kan speel. Die kans om De Villiers as spanmaat te hê wordop ‘n bod-beginsel beslis. Die openingsbod staan op R1000. Persone wat solank plekwil bespreek vir dié heerlike dag of ‘n bod wil insit om De Villiers as spanmaat te hê,kan Steven by 084 589 0344 kontak.
Chrome Golf Club Wednesday Competitions
Time: 15:00. Nine holes. Entry fee R60. Enquiries: Martin van Rooyen, 082 816 4833.
Chrome Golf Club Friday Sundowner Competitions (twice a month)
Time: 13:00. Nine holes. Entry fee R60. Enquiries: Martin van Rooyen, 082 816 4833.
Burgersfort United Soccer
Burgersfort United Football Club plays soccer every Wednesday and Friday evening. Theyinvite all social players of all ages to come and join them at the Laerskool Burgersfortsportsgrounds. Enquiries: Faizal, 082 922 3909 or Riaz, 072 471 7545.
Winterveld Ringbalklub
Die Winterveld Ringbalklub begin weer met hulle oefeninge. Dit is steeds Dinsdae enDonderdae om 18:00 by die Waterval CVO skool se bane. Alle nuwe en oud-spelers iswelkom om by die klub aan te sluit. Die klub het vanaf juniorspelers wat nog oplaerskool is tot seniors.Navrae: Zelna Wheeler, 072 531 6287.
Tubatse Ringbal Klub
Die Tubatse Ringbal Klub oefen elke Dinsdagaand. Oefeninge is Dinsdae om 18:00 byCalvin College. Donderdae sal wedstryde op Lydenburg gespeel word. Allebelangstellendes is welkom. Navrae: Roelof Lourens, 072 209 0176 of LesleyOosthuizen, 082 224 5695.
Spreek jou mening uit. Skrywes kan per epos, pos of faks na PlatinumGazette gestuur word. Kontakbesonderhede is op bladsy 2 van vandag seuitgawe.
Thought for the week
Beánnla Celliers will see to it that your advertisement in PlatinumGazette meets the highest standards with regard to design andreproduction. Phone her on 083 543 1676 to book your advertisingspace today.www.platinumgazette.com
Read PlatinumGazette online at:
www Subscribe to receive Platinum Gazetteon e-mail. Simply send us an e-mail requesting this
free service. You will be added to hundreds ofreaders who get the newspaper conveniently
delivered to their inbox every Friday. E-mail us at:[email protected] Never miss thenewspaper, read the electronic version! Visit
www.platinumgazette.com for all the old and newnewspapers.
“If you can, help others; if you cannot do that, atleast do not harm them.” - 14th Dalai Lama(religious name: Tenzin Gyatso)
The power of print
11NUUS1 APRIL 2011
Photography Club winnersfor March
The photographs onthe top and left tookfirst and thirdposition. The judgessaid that they likedthe way thephotographer playedwith shape andcolour. The redcolouring helped toensure that theguitar did notovershadow thefigure, which wasalso the subject ofthe photograph. Thebottom one was a bitdifferent with theguitar not havingexactly the sameeffect on the pictureas a whole. Thefocus, light andcomposition of thephotographs weregood.They were bothtaken by RuanKleynhans.
Want to join theclub? Phone RuanKleynhans on 083276 1643 or DaryllGeddes on 083 6122021.
The top photograph was taken by Daryll Geddes and took the second place. Thejudges said that the little wings brought something different to the photograph, but thatit would have been better if the little foot had not been cut off.
Klein Advertensies • SmallsPlaas jou klein advertensie by Phelo Pele Pharmacy in die Khadima Sentrum of by Burgersfort Apteek in die MaroneSentrum of doen dit elektronies d.m.v. e-pos of faks. Place your small at Phelo Pele Pharmacy in the Khadima Centreor at Burgersfort Pharmacy at the Marone Centre. You could also place it via e-mail or fax. Enquiries: 083 543 1676
or 083 271 9151. E-mail: [email protected] • Fax: 086 554 9031
12
1.Sport Klubs /Sport Clubs2.Betrekking/Vacancy
3.Dienste/Services4. Oornag Akkommodasie/Overnight
accommodation5. Troeteldiere/Pets
6. Persoonlik/Personal7. Allerlei/Miscellaneous
8. Gesoek/Wanted9. Te Huur/To Let
10. Te Koop/For sale
1. Sport Klubs/Sport Clubs
GSKA KarateMaandae & Woens-
dae van 17h30 –19h00 by CalvinCollage. Almal
welkom van 6 jaar enouer. Skakel Jolanda
Hietbrink by082 859 9681.
MooifonteinGuesthouse
Accommodation inBurgersfort. R380 per
person per day.Includes Bed &
Breakfast, Lunch/Supper & Laundry
service.Contact: Judy, 082
308 9221/7
4. OornagAkkommodasie/
Overnightaccommodation
1 APRIL 2011
3. Dienste/Services
ALL & ALLSERVICES
WE DO IT ALL.AIRCONS, FRIDGES,STOVES, GEYSERS,
REPAIRS ANDINSTALLATIONS.
FOR A FREEQUOTATION CALL
ALL HOURS ON079 492 5780 or 071629 4402 OR E-MAIL
US ATAllservicesburgersfort@
gmail.com
ContactPlatinum
Gazette with allyour news andevents. Call the
editor on:083 271 9151
*To book an
advertisementcall BeánnlaCelliers on
083 543 1676
ReadPlatinumGazette
online at:www.platinumgazette.
com
Betrekkings/Vacancies
10.Te Koop/For Sale
1ha - 1.3haVoltitelerwe teen
berghang, net buiteSteelpoort te koop.Kaart en transportreeds deur. Geen
gewag virtoestemming, alles
reeds goedgekeur enonderverdeel. Eskomen wateraansluitingsbeskikbaar. SLEGS
WOONDOELEINDES.Pryse vanafR680 000.Navrae:
082 851 5825 of 082875 0292.
9. Te Huur/To Let
Burgersfort. Two 1Bedroom flats insecure complex.
Contact:076 666 1100
PLATINUM GAZETTE
Security Staff Required
Eastern Limb Offices,Rodium Drive,Steelpoort
[email protected]@thorburn.co.za
Special Operations Supervisor or Junior Manager: Steelpoort AreaThe successful candidate must have previous military or police experience,drivers license, fire arm competency and a Grade A PSIRA registration.Experience in special crime reduction operations is a requirement. Remunerationwould be on a Grade A (plus) level.
Crime Incident Investigator: SteelpoortCandidates with CID experience, informer handling and incident investigationsexperience will be considered with the added requirements of drivers license,Grade A PSIRA registration and fire arm competency. Remuneration on GradeA (plus) level.Security Officers: SteelpoortGrade D – B security officers required for the Steelpoort Area. Only securityofficers with clean criminal records and valid PSIRA registrations will beconsidered. Employment is subject to passing mining security competencyevaluation and reference checks are done. Grade B officers with drivers licenseswill also be considered.Thorburn Security Solutions offer the following benefits to staff in the SteelportArea:· Immediate funeral benefit· Provident Fund after 4 months· R200 000 death cover for mining security officers· R175-00 Monthly Performance and Attendance Bonus· Special rewards for Service ExcellenceThorburn meet all statutory requirements.To apply fax CVs to 012 803 8084 ore-mail to addresses below orvisit our local offices.
ALARM SYSTEM TECHNICIANThorburn Security Solutions is seeking the employment of a full time AlarmSystem Technician in the Steelpoort Area, who should be able:
* To maintain and install full alarm systems on newly acquired sites.* To have fault finding skills and a sound knowledge of most suitable
placements of devices such as internal and external PIR’s, wiring of afull system, including zone expanders, and remote controls.
* To conduct system programming of one or more of the following (IDS,Paradox, DSC)
* To use multi-meter to test cable voltage and conduct continuity tests.* To present certificates confirming PSIRA registration and valid South
African driver’s license.* To know SAIDSA installation requirements.* To have at least 3 years alarm installation experience and at least 12
months of leading an installation team.* Knowledge and experience with CCTV and access control systems will
be an advantage;Applications with CV have to reach [email protected] [email protected] soonestOnly eligible candidates will be notified those who do not receive anyfeedback within one week were regrettably declined.
A career opportunity exists atThorburn Security Solutions:
“Doing business without advertising islike winking at a girl in the dark.
You know what you are doing, butnobody else does”- Stuart Henderson
13SPORT1APRIL 2011
(Reg No: NCRDC 487)
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Next to Toyota, Burgersfort.Tel: (013) 231 8322
E-mail:[email protected]
(Reg No: NCRDC 487)
Registered Debt Counsellor & Administrator
Visit a registered DebtCounsellor as soon as your debt
gets out of hand to help you makea plan to eventually be debt free.
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Ladies onthe golfcourse
Last week Saturday Tubatse Chrome GolfClub held a free ladies golf clinic.The aim of the day was to help those whowould like to learn the game, or who canalready play, but need a bit more confidenceand guidance.The club would like to develop the ladies andjunior golf to eventually also enter teams inthe league games or be able to play friendlycompetitions with neighbouring clubs.Seven women attended the morning’sactivity.
They learned how the putt in a straight line.They also had some coaching in hiting theball with the correct posture and drift.Each woman had her turn to hit 60 balls froma bucket. This turned the course intosomewhat of a driving range, but I was all fora good cause because most of the womenquickly got the hang of it.The Club provided them with lunch andwould like to invite them and any othergolfing enthusiasts to join the club and makeuse of the clinics to enhance your play.
The Juniors will have a golfclinic on 1 and 2 April. Allyoung boys and girls are
welcome. To book your spotcontact Martin van Rooyen on
082 816 4833.
14 SPORT 1 APRIL 2011
Ca$h TraderTel: (013) 231 7140
Visit Cash Trader behind ABSA bank, near Cheap Cheap
Ca$h Trader
Splat tSplat tSplat tSplat tSplat theheheheheprprprprprices!
ices!ices!ices!ices!
Splat tSplat tSplat tSplat tSplat theheheheheprprprprprices!
ices!ices!ices!ices!
Paintball StarterSet - R1845-00
Caribou Binoculars(Water proof) -
R1445-00
Power Amp 2 x700wrms -R4850-00
Amp-Mixer 4 Channel75W rms - R1540-00
PaintballHelmet -R650-00
Daisy 5501 Blow-back semi-auto -
R1385-00
Maintainingthe lead
Maatlopo United kepttheir hope ofrepresentingSekhukhune in theprovincial play-offalive by beating RTGaint Killers atMoroke on Saturdaylast week. RT GiantKillers are from JaneFurse.The final score was4-1 and Maatlopo’spoints were made byAdebayoh Thobejane(2), Small Mampaand RaymondPhasha. Raymondwas also the Man ofthe Match.This week Maatlopowill not be playing.They were supposedto play againstDenilton Young Starsbut they weredisqualified from thecompetition after theymissed more thanthree games thisseason.
Maatlopo United will host Makgalanoto YoungChiefs on 9 April and Sekhukhune Arsenal on16 April. Both these games will be played atMoroke’s Ntwampe Stadium.“Our goal is to see ourselves in the Vodacomleague. We urge all people, the municipality,NGO’s, supporters and the media to supportus in our bid for this”.
15NUUS1 APRIL 2011
Marathon fun for local athletesSmall, but fit
and fastCharlise Visser,daughter ofVissie Visserfrom SamancorEastern ChromeMines finishedthe women’s 21km race in 9thplace. This is aremarkableachievement fora little girl of only12 years old!Her parents hadto get specialpermission forher to participate.
Samancor, Eastern Chrome Mines againshowed their support and commitmenttowards the development of the communityby sponsoring a water point during theLongtom Marathon. Several runners fromthe mine also participated in the 5km andthe 21km races and were sponsored withtheir running kit.The team that manned the water point wasexhilarated by the fact that they receivedsecond place in the category for the bestwater point. It was a fun day for all andEastern Chrome Mines is looking forward tonext year’s event.
Waterpoint second place for ECMAthletes participated inthe Longtom Marathonlast week Saturday.Samancor EasternChrome Mines alsomanned a waterpointand came second out ofmore than 20 water-points along the route.Local athletes took firstand second place in the56km race. Read moreabout this on page 16.The photographs onthese pages were takenby Davida van der Waltand WillemMontgomery.
16 1 APRIL 2011
SPORTSPORTPlatinum Gazette
BMW,Corolla, Tazz, Citi
Golf, PoloClassic, OpelAstra, Sentra,Opel Corsa,Hyundai andmuch more
• Fenders • Bonnets • Grills • Bumpers • Head & Tail Lights • CV Joints •Brake Pads • Aircon fans • Radiator fans • Condensers • Carburators •Crankshafts • Alternators • Starters • Shocks • Oil Filters • Crown and
Pinions • Diffs • Ignitions • Radiators • Distributors
Mashifane Park (Ga-Mashamothane) • Cell: 076 848 3936
used &new motorspares
Rebuilds on sale
NOW STRIPPING!NOW STRIPPING!Engines * Gearboxes
Contact: 082 569 4677• Burgersfort main road next to Kia
Motors. E-mail:[email protected]
Open Monday - Friday: 08:00 - 16:00
Phelo Wood &Interior
Kitchen units; Bedroom cupboards,Build-in cupboards; Studies; Chest of
drawers; Office furnitureCeiling fans, Decorative Lights. 3D Designs for woodwork.
Fanie is in top formThe Modikwa Marathon Club had a verysuccessful weekend at the annual Long TomUltra Marathon but it was Fanie Matshipawho stole the show with his first place.Leboka Noto running in the colours of MrPrice come in second position after Faniewho runs for Steelpoort.Leboka was very happy with hisperformance and said his training for thisyear’s Comrades Marathon. Peter Molapocame home in a very respectable 11 place.Modikwa’s Mandla Nxumalo also competedin the 56km race, this was the first time heran the Long Tom ultra marathon.In the 21.1km race the other Modikwaathletes did very well with Portia Mabenawinning the junior ladies race. Ernest Mokooone of our community runners came in atposition 5, he had a very good race. Therest of the athletes finished in very goodtimes. We would like to congratulate all therunners with their excellent performance andwish them best of luck for the upcomingLoskop Marathon.
Left: Fanie Matshipa from Steelpoortcame first in the Longtom Marathon’s56km race.
Right: ModikwaMarathon Club runnersafter they’ve completedtheir various races.The Club performedvery well with twoathletes in the top tenand a win in the JuniorLadies Section.
Far left: Fanie andLeboka Noto - firstand second places.
All photographs onthis page: WillemMontgomery.