The Turtle Conservation Centre (TCC) team from the Two Oceans Aquarium Foundation is urging the public to report any stranded adult turtles to experts and not return them to the water. This call follows an incident on 4 February 2025, where a 78kg female loggerhead turtle, of nesting age, was found stranded near Betty’s Bay. 

The turtle was entangled in the ropes of a marker buoy, which had cut into her front left flipper. The buoy's weight worsened the injury, while a thick layer of algae and marine leeches had crusted over her shell and wounds. Despite the efforts of well-meaning beachgoers who freed her from the entanglement and released her back into the sea, this often leads to the death of injured and weakened turtles.

“A stranded turtle should never, under any circumstances, be returned to the ocean,” says Tracy Whitehead, Turtle Rescue Network Coordinator. “The trauma of stranding leaves turtles extremely vulnerable to drowning if they are unable to surface for breath. Instead, rescuers should phone the Turtle Rescue Hotline on 083 300 1663 and keep the turtle sheltered from sun and wind while they wait for further instruction.”

The Betty’s Bay Turtle Rescue Network was activated to monitor the situation in case the turtle stranded again. At around 18:30, the same beachgoers rediscovered the turtle. Tracy emphasised that the best approach is to assume the turtle is alive and guided the rescuers to move her to a dry, sheltered spot on the beach. CapeNature officials and Kogelberg Biosphere Wildlife Rescue Centre staff transported the turtle along the beach for over two hours to the waiting rescue vehicle, driven by Michael Bayer from Hermanus of the Turtle Rescue Network.

Michael quickly rushed the turtle to TCC in Cape Town, where initially, the turtle showed signs of life despite being severely weakened. Unfortunately, after monitoring her vital signs into the early hours of the morning, the turtle was declared deceased. An autopsy conducted by the TCCs veterinarians confirmed that the turtle had drowned.

The loss of this loggerhead turtle is particularly heartbreaking, as her size suggests she was of breeding age, around 20 to 30 years old. In the wild, only one or two out of every 1 000 turtles survive to reach this stage. At TCC, each adult turtle successfully rehabilitated and released is a vital opportunity for the survival of this endangered species.

Should you come across a stranded turtle, please move the turtle to a shaded area out of the wind and immediately contact the Turtle Rescue Hotline on 083 300 1663. Alternatively contact local turtle rescue coordinator Michael Bayer on 083 657 0191.

Lizelle Struwig, a resident of Kleinmond, is a young artist who is becoming well-known for her beautiful oil paintings. Working primarily in soft, blended layers, she creates pieces that evoke a sense of tranquility and connection. 

Like most children, Lizelle dabbled in drawing during her early years. However, her primary focus was sport. It was only in high school that she began taking art more seriously, choosing it as a subject in her final three years of school. Through these classes, she was introduced to various mediums, but it was oil painting that captured her heart.

Despite this early exposure, Lizelle did not immediately pursue a career in art. Instead, she worked in her family’s coffee shop while painting on weekends and fulfilling occasional commission requests. Everything changed in 2017 when she stumbled upon the work of a Canadian artist, someone of a similar age who had already made a name for themselves in the art world. Inspired, she decided to pursue painting full-time. Years of dedication followed, leading Lizelle to officially transition into a full-time artist in January 2022.

Lizelle’s subject matter varies, and she finds it rewarding switching up themes for her paintings – one day, she might paint flowers, the next a landscape. Regardless of the subject, her goal remains the same: to capture beauty and evoke emotions of peace, hope, and serenity. Many admirers of her work have commented on her painting’s soft and tranquil quality, a testament to her skill in translating emotion onto canvas.

Over the years, Lizelle has developed a distinctive style, characterised by soft blending techniques and smooth, thin layers of paint. While she leans towards realism, she does not strive for hyper-photorealism. She continually experiments with different styles, ensuring her work remains dynamic and ever evolving.

One of her favourite subjects to paint at the moment is maritime scenes. The rhythmic movement of the waves and the stories of ships navigating vast waters captivate her. Another recurring theme in her work is the female figure, often portrayed in ways that highlight strength, grace, and resilience. These paintings are not just about aesthetics but serve as motivational pieces, inspiring and empowering those who view them.

Lizelle primarily sells her artwork privately through social media and currently exhibits at the Art Boutique Gallery in Kleinmond Harbour. She also takes commissions and has shipped her work internationally, with buyers from the United States, Europe, and India amongst her clients.

Despite the artistic fulfillment, transitioning into a full-time artist was not without its challenges. Lizelle admits that the business side of being an artist was one of her biggest hurdles. Managing commissions, marketing, and finances required her to develop skills beyond painting, but she has tackled these challenges with the same dedication she applies to her art.

One of the most rewarding aspects of her journey has been the emotional impact her paintings have on people. She recalls moments when viewers shared deeply personal stories of how her art resonated with them, bringing them comfort or inspiration. These connections, she says, are some of her greatest rewards.

Looking ahead, Lizelle dreams of expanding her artistic reach, both in terms of audience and creative exploration. She envisions creating more in-depth art lessons to share her knowledge and inspire both aspiring and seasoned artists. At the core of her journey is a desire to keep evolving, to continue capturing the world’s beauty in her unique way, and to touch lives through her art.

For those interested in commissioning a piece or purchasing her work, Lizelle can be reached via Whatsapp on 084 434 9356 or email lizelle.struwig1@gmail.com. You will also find her on Facebook (Lizelle Struwig Art) and Instagram (@lizellestruwigart). 

The Overberg Education District celebrated the outstanding achievements of its 2024 matric class at the annual Matric Awards Ceremony, held at Swartberg Secondary School in Caledon on 1 February. 

The event, which recognised the district’s top-performing schools and learners in the National Senior Certificate (NSC) exams, was a proud moment for students, educators, and parents alike, who had traveled from far to be present on the day.

The ceremony was emceed by Jacques Ockhuis from the Overberg Education District who kept the proceedings lively and engaging. District Director Isobel Senosi officially opened the event with a heartfelt address, praising the learners for their hard work and resilience. She emphasised the importance of perseverance in education and commended the Overberg schools for their commitment to academic excellence.

Adding to the morning's inspiration was a special guest speaker, Douglas Peterson from the University of the Western Cape (UWC). With a blend of humour and wisdom, he spoke about the challenges that lie beyond high school. He spoke of life's ups and downs, and that in order to succeed, one must first fail in many cases. He encouraged the learners to never give up, reminding them that setbacks are often stepping stones to success.

Before the main awards presentation, guests were treated to a delicious spread of food, offering a chance for educators, parents, and students to celebrate together. 

The awards presentation followed, with learners (or in their absence, their parents) and principals taking the stage to receive certificates and trophies across different categories. Each award represented not only individual success but also the dedication of teachers and the support of families who played a crucial role in these achievements.

The results were as follows:

1. Most Improved Schools

Greatest increase in the percentage of bachelor’s degree attainment pass rates

1st Gansbaai Academia 

2nd Swartberg Secondary School, Caledon 

3rd Umyezo Wama Apile High School, Grabouw 

Most improved public schools

1st Riviersonderend High School

2nd Umyezo Wama Apile High School, Grabouw 

3rd Qhayiya Secondary School, Hermanus 

Greatest increase in pass rate from 2023 to 2024: Qhayiya Secondary School, Hermanus 

Greatest percentage increase in the total number of subject distinctions: Bredasdorp High School

2. Improvement in Individual Subjects

• Mathematics: Qhayiya Secondary School, Hermanus 

• Afrikaans Home Language: Swellendam High School

• isiXhosa Home Language: Qhayiya Secondary School, Hermanus 

3. Excellence in Individual Subjects

• Mathematics: Hermanus High School

• Physical Sciences: Hermanus High School

• English Home Language: Bredasdorp High School

• Afrikaans Home Language: Swellendam High School

• isiXhosa Home Language: Gansbaai Academia

4. Excellence in Academic Performance

Consistent excellence in academic performance: Bredasdorp High School, Hermanus High School, Overberg High School, Swellendam High School, Olyfkrans College, Northcliff House College

No learner left behind: 100% pass rate and highest enrolment: Overberg High School, Caledon

5. Top Schools

Top lower enrolment school in the Overberg: Swellendam High School

Top higher enrolment school in the Overberg: Bredasdorp High School

6. Top Performer per Subject

• Accounting: Helena Kriel, Bredasdorp High School

• Afrikaans First Additional Language: Chloe Kahts, Hermanus High School

• Afrikaans Home Language: Lara Strydom, Hermanus High School

• Business Studies: Annelie van der Linde, Overberg High School, Caledon

• CAT (three-way tie): Dane van der Bergh from Hermanus High School, Deon Harmse from Bredasdorp High School, and Jacques Harmse from Bredasdorp High School

• Consumer Studies (two-way tie): Karla Steyn from De Villiers Graaff High School, Villiersdorp, and Charlotte Swart, from Swellendam High School

• Dance Studies: Jana Marais, Hermanus High School

• Design: Chloe Kahts, Hermanus High School

• Drama: Jana Marais, Hermanus High School

• Economics: Buhle Nyantsa, Qhayiya Secondary School, Hermanus

• Engineering Graphics & Design: Heinrich Kok, Hermanus High School

• English First Additional Language: Dawn Abrahams, Overberg High School, Caledon

• English Home Language: Somé Louw, Bredasdorp High School

• Geography: Helena Kriel, Bredasdorp High School

• History: Chloe Kahts, Hermanus High School

• Hospitality Studies: Danel Coetzee, Overberg High School, Caledon

• IT (two-way tie): Deon Harmse from Bredasdorp High School and Jacques Harmse from Bredasdorp High School

• isiXhosa Home Language: Alizwa Phezisa, Umyezo Wama Apile High School, Grabouw

• Life Orientation (two-way tie): Karla Steyn, from De Villiers Graaff High School, Villiersdorp, and Somé Louw from Bredasdorp High School

• Life Sciences: Angeline Kolb, Hermanus High School

• Mathematics: Somé Louw, Bredasdorp High School

• Mathematics Literacy: Zoeye Groenewald, Swellendam High School

• Physical Sciences: Somé Louw, Bredasdorp High School

• Tourism: Mila Frates, Hermanus High School

• Visual Arts: Mila Frates, Hermanus High School

7. Top Ten Learners

10th Chanté du Bruyn, Overberg High School, Caledon

10th Jana Marais, Hermanus High School

9th Migael Davel, Hermanus High School

8th Jacques Harmse, Bredasdorp High School

7th Tanya van der Mescht, Bredasdorp High School

6th Angeline Kolb, Hermanus High School

5th Mila Frates, Hermanus High School

4th Lara Strydom, Hermanus High School

3rd Chloe Kahts, Hermanus High School

2nd Helena Kriel, Bredasdorp High School

1st Somé Louw, Bredasdorp High School 

The ceremony concluded with a round of applause for the matriculants who worked tirelessly to achieve their results. As the learners look ahead to their future studies and careers, they do so with the knowledge that their perseverance and dedication have already set them on the path to success. Special thanks was also given to the staff of the Overberg Education District for their hard work over the last year.

Congratulations to all the award recipients on their fantastic results and all the best in your future endeavours. Images from the ceremony will be available on our website.

Every Easter long weekend, something extraordinary unfolds in the heart of the Overstrand. At Bodhi Khaya Nature Retreat near Grootbos Private Nature Reserve, hundreds of people gather to plant thousands of indigenous trees while immersing themselves in a vibrant celebration of nature, community, and creativity. This is Greenpop’s Reforest Fest – a unique fusion of environmental restoration, live music, interactive art, inspiring workshops, and wholesome food, creating an unforgettable experience for all ages.

Greenpop is a Cape Town-based non-profit organisation dedicated to ecological restoration, urban greening, and environmental education. Since its founding in 2010, Greenpop has worked across Sub-Saharan Africa to empower people to take action for the planet. Their philosophy is simple: instead of being overwhelmed by eco-anxiety, they encourage people to get active, not anxious. Their work spans everything from tree planting to education campaigns, and they are an official partner of the UN Decade on Ecosystem Restoration, a global initiative to heal the planet’s ecosystems.

Reforest Fest began in 2011 as Greenpop’s flagship tree-planting event. Held at Platbos (Africa’s southernmost forest) and Bodhi Khaya Nature Retreat, the festival was born out of a need to restore degraded forest patches in the region. Over the years, this event has grown into a movement, with festival-goers planting over 150 000 indigenous trees since its inception. The impact is enormous – not only are attendees reviving forest habitats, but they are also helping to support endangered species such as the elusive Cape leopard, the large-spotted genet, and the Cape bushbuck.

Now in its 14th year, Reforest Fest 2025 is set to take place from 18 to 21 April. With the goal of planting another 5 000 trees, attendees will not only make a lasting impact on the environment but also enjoy a one-of-a-kind festival experience.

The experience begins on Friday afternoon as festival-goers arrive and settle in for a relaxed evening of gentle tunes beneath a sky full of stars. Saturday is when the real action begins, as participants get their hands in the soil to help restore the Uilenkraal Valley ecosystem in a high-energy day of mass tree planting. After a rewarding day of hard work, a vibrant celebration follows, and attendees come together to enjoy live music and dance under the canopy of trees.

Amidst this weekend of ecological restoration and community building, attendees have the opportunity to indulge in unique wine-tasting experiences with WWF Conservation Wine Champions. The WWF program recognises environmental leaders within the South African wine industry who are dedicated to biodiversity-friendly and regenerative farming practices. On Saturday afternoon, guests can savour wines from some of the Western Cape's most sustainably and ethically-minded wineries, and at the Sunday tasting, carefully paired with delectable chocolates and honey. 

"Considering 90% of South Africa’s wine is produced in the Cape floral kingdom, a global biodiversity hotspot, opportunities such as this that invite wine brands to tangibly connect their conservation commitments with growing conscientious consumers helps to amplify the message," says Shelly Fuller, Programme Manager – Fynbos Landscapes, WWF South Africa.

Sunday is a day to slow down and recharge. After a physically demanding Saturday, festival-goers can explore a variety of engaging and educational activities, from interactive workshops to guided forest walks, yoga sessions, and inspiring guest talks on sustainability. As the sun sets, the atmosphere shifts into a relaxed campfire gathering, where stories are shared, and connections deepen. On Monday, before heading home, attendees are encouraged to take in the stunning natural surroundings of Bodhi Khaya, soaking in the last moments of this transformative weekend.

One of the standout features of Reforest Fest is its family-friendly atmosphere. Unlike many festivals that cater primarily to adults, this event is designed to be welcoming and engaging for children and families. In the Kids’ Village, young festival-goers can explore a world of creativity and play. Activities include eco-crafts and nature-based play, flowers and leaf paper making with Growing Paper, theatre and storytelling, and an improv class with Rob Coutts. A highlight for many children is the Easter Egg Hunt, which features Fairtrade chocolate treats.

Beyond the Kids’ Village, families can enjoy a range of interactive experiences, from tree planting to arts and crafts workshops. Parents can unwind in the wellness areas, take part in yoga sessions, or explore the scenic forest trails, knowing that their children are engaged in meaningful and enriching activities. Festival-goers of all ages can also enjoy hands-on activities such as wood carving, flower-crown making, musical jam sessions, and dance classes. The goal is not just to educate, but to inspire people to embrace a deeper connection with nature.

Reforest Fest is about making a difference. As an organisation committed to sustainability, Greenpop ensures that the festival operates with minimal environmental impact. In 2024, the festival diverted 419kg of waste from landfills and fed 527kg of food waste to pigs. The food village serves over 11 500 plant-based meals, demonstrating how sustainable choices can be both delicious and nourishing.

At its heart, Reforest Fest is about restoration, education, action, and opportunities to connect with like-minded individuals. Attendees leave having gained knowledge and inspiration, and a connection to the natural world.

Reforest Fest has sold out for the past three years and this year, the first three phases of ticket sales have already sold out.  Ticket sales for the second–to–last phase are now open so be sure to secure your spot quickly. Tickets include festival entry, a place to pitch your tent, and all workshops and activities. To learn more, visit www.reforestfest.com. 

Day Pass Access 

For those who wish to pop in just for the day on Saturday to plant trees and enjoy wine tastings, kids activities, or South Africa's top musicians in the evening, the Reforest Fest is offering an exclusive Day Pass. Search for the Reforest Fest on Quicket, open the event link, click on ‘tickets’, and enter RFF25_DAYTICKET in the promotional code bar. Then click on ‘festival tickets’ and scroll down to find the Day Pass for adults and children. 

Freshwater fish in the Western Cape – specifically the Overberg – are drawing attention from both local and international conservationists in a race to save these unique species from extinction.

Fynbos fish, which have thrived in rivers and streams of the Cape Fold Ecoregion (CFE) for thousands of years, are now facing increasing threats. A 2021 World Wildlife Fund report highlighted that freshwater biodiversity is being lost at twice the rate of forest or ocean biodiversity. In the Overberg fynbos fish are facing dangers from invasive species, excessive water use, and habitat and water quality degradation.

The growing concern for the survival of these fish has attracted the attention of the International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN). In response, the Nuwejaars River Nature Reserve (NRNR), a non-profit organisation focused on conservation, restoration, and rewilding, launched a project to better understand the species, their distribution, and the threats they face. The project, supported by Fondation Segré through IUCN’s Save our Species program, is managed by NRNR across the 47 000 hectare Nuwejaars Wetlands Special Management Area.

Three highly range-restricted freshwater fish species, the endangered Heuningnes Redfin, the endangered Heuningnes Galaxias, and the data-deficient Agulhas Kurper, have drawn particular interest. These species, all currently being described as new species by researchers from the NRF-South African Institute for Aquatic Biodiversity, are unique to the region and found nowhere else in the world.

In 2024, the NFFP team surveyed nearly 200 sites across 41kms of river. While Agulhas Kurpers were the most common, Heuningnes Redfins were found at only 16 sites, and Heuningnes Galaxias at 42 sites. Galaxias Dubius is the fourth native fish species in the Overberg, completing the region's total of four native fish species

Project partner Riaan van der Walt of the Fynbos Fish Trust said, “One of the biggest threats is alien invasive fish that were brought in for angling in the 1930s, particularly the bass species. In the Nuwejaars catchment, bluegill sunfish and Mozambique tilapia were the most common invasive fishes, with the latter potentially competing for resources. Spotted bass, a predatory species, was also found at a number of sites. Both the native and non-native fishes have considerable overlap in their habitat use. This makes the native fishes easy prey to the introduced predators. Common carp, a species known for degrading water quality, was also found in some of the sampled sites.” 

On a positive note, experts believe the dark, murky waters of the Nuwejaars could be a key factor in protecting fynbos fish. Predatory species like bass primarily hunt by sight, but the opaque waters allow native fish to evade these invaders by hiding, giving them a better chance at survival.

As part of the project, the team engaged with several local schools, including Elim Primary School, Mispah School for Learners with Special Educational Needs, Khula Learning Centre, Bredasdorp Primary School, and Zoetendal Academy. The students were introduced to freshwater biodiversity, with a focus on the local fish species.

According to Ross Kettles, Operations Manager of the NRNR, it’s not only children who play a role in protecting fish. Land users and farmworkers, too, are a vital cog in the wheel. Ross gives advice on how to protect fynbos fish: “A starting point is to not relocate or stock non-native fish in dams, rivers or streams. Pollution will also affect these tiny fish, so please don’t pollute or leave litter which can end up in river systems.” 

In addition to the Fynbos Fish Project, the NRNR is actively restoring large sections of the river and wetlands by removing invasive alien plants. This restoration effort is contributing to healthier ecosystems that support all forms of biodiversity, including freshwater fish. For more information visit www.nuwejaars.com.

Agteros, the charming new restaurant located on Queen Victoria Street in Stanford, is a haven for food lovers seeking a unique culinary experience. Opened on 18 September 2024, the restaurant is the brainchild of Janine and Anthony van der Nest, who bring both a passion for food and people to their new venture. 

Named after the Afrikaans proverb agteros kom ook in die kraal, which translates to “with patience and perseverance, you will get there”, Agteros embodies the couple’s journey. They have weathered life's challenges, but through determination and hard work, they have finally reached this milestone. As Janine explains, “We’ve had our ups and downs, but just like the proverb says, we got things done in the end.”

The restaurant’s intimate team consists of five chefs, including Janine, and four front-of-house staff, with Anthony taking on the role of front-of-house manager. While Janine did not formally study to be a chef, her love for food developed at a young age, nurtured by her grandmother. Growing up in Cape Town as the oldest of three siblings, Janine was always curious about flavours and food. Her inquisitive nature led her to experiment with tastes that other children might shy away from. 

Her professional journey as a chef began when she worked under Julia Bailey, the former owner of The Eatery. There, she was given creative freedom with seasonal dishes, allowing her to hone her culinary instincts. She also worked with Chef Tullishe le Roux, known for her bold flavour combinations, and spent time at Stanford Manor. These experiences helped shape Janine’s understanding of food and flavour balance, skills she now brings to Agteros.

The restaurant itself has a homely, inviting atmosphere, which was very much a deliberate design choice. “I knew the menu before we knew what people would be sitting on,” says Janine with a laugh, showcasing her deep passion for food. The mismatched tables and chairs, many of which are from their own home, contribute to the cosy, eclectic vibe. The rest of the furniture was sourced second-hand, and somehow it all fits perfectly, creating a comfortable space where guests can truly feel at home.

Adding to the cultural richness of Agteros, Janine is also showcasing artworks from local artist Sara Abbott, which are available for sale at the restaurant.

Janine and Anthony have been together for 20 years, and Anthony’s role at the restaurant is a natural extension of his love for people. When he's not working remotely in his own field, Anthony ensures that diners feel welcomed and cared for. His presence adds to the warm, familial atmosphere that Agteros strives to create.

The menu at Agteros celebrates South African flavours, drawing on Janine’s childhood influences. Each dish is a carefully crafted blend of unique, balanced flavours, and the menu changes seasonally to reflect the freshest local ingredients. Some items on the menu include mushroom parfait with Marmite biscuits and pickles; lamb tjoppies with garden herb verde, braaibroodjie and smashed potatoes; and Riesling poached pear with cheesecake with an almond crumb. Although they do not yet have a liquor license, patrons are welcome to bring their own wine. There is a corkage fee per bottle.

Agteros also hosts functions and celebrations, and offers catering services extending from Hermanus to Gansbaai, making it a versatile option for special events. Beginning in April, Janine will start offering winter cooking classes, as well as a series of homecooked-style meals at the restaurant that will continue into the colder months.

One of the standout upcoming events is the ‘Feast for the Brave’, set for 1 March. Guests will be treated to a six-course wild food experience, featuring foraged ingredients from the sea, including dishes like smoked snoek roe, grilled octopus, and squid ink risotto. The event promises to be an unforgettable culinary adventure and will challenge diners to be brave in their culinary choices.

For those looking for a different dining experience, Agteros offers not only exceptional food but also a welcoming atmosphere where guests can feel like they are part of the family. 

Agteros is on its way to becoming a beloved spot in Stanford. For bookings and inquiries, contact 073 367 6371 or email reservations@agteros.co.za.

In December 2024, Roniel Weber from Free2Care, a local NPO, launched The Write Things Project, a stationery drive for youth and learners in need. We put out an appeal to the Overstrand community for donations of various stationery items. 

Hermanus First Fridays Artwalk, who also supported Local Life’s stationery drive in January 2024, sponsored stationery for 30 children. A member of the Overstrand community, Lynette Geldenhuys, donated 3 more stationery packs, and an anonymous donor donated petrol for Free2Care to distribute the packs to Mount Pleasant Primary School, Lukhanyo Primary School, and Hermanus Child and Family Services.

Roslynne Weber, Roniel's daughter, who along with her grandfather, Ivan, helped to deliver the stationery, also donated some of her own stationery to Lukhanyo Primary School.

The stationery was handed over to the principals of the schools and the General Manager of Hermanus Child & Family Services who will decide which children are most in need and hand it out accordingly. Thank you to all those who supported this important initiative.

On Thursday 30 January, the new 2025 Grade 8 learners officially became part of the Curro Hermanus High School community during the Grade 8 Blazer Ceremony. 

With the help of Mrs Bence, the Grade 8s put on an enjoyable concert before receiving their blazers from their matric mentors. They lit their candles and took a pledge of loyalty to the Curro Hermanus family. 

The ceremony concluded with the ringing of the bell, marking the beginning of their high school journey. We wish the Grade 8s all the best for the year ahead.