The SA Police Services and the Justice, Crime Prevention and Security Cluster Departments have led a Public Education Programme  in collaboration with other ‘partners in crime’ at the Zwelihle Primary School hall in Hermanus on Saturday, 20 August 2022.

The purpose of the imbizo was to interact with the community and relevant stakeholders on safety and crime prevention issues relating to service delivery and community involvement. The security cluster wanted to use the programme as a platform to give feedback on what had been done since the Imbizo in February this year.

Overstrand Municipality’s Protection Services Directorate was also on board to show high school learners from surrounding schools in the area the career opportunities available to them in the safety/security sector. 

Earlier today, 24 August 2022, Overstrand baboon monitors became aware of an injured female baboon in Silversands, Betty’s Bay.

Upon first inspection it seemed like a dog bite wound on her rear thigh.

A known activist for baboon rights was also on the scene disrupting the course of events. Unfortunately, the baboon team was unable to assess the injuries of the female because she moved away into the thick bushes. When the team was able to locate the injured baboon hours later, her condition had deteriorated to the point where she stopped breathing and died.

The public is once again requested not to interfere with the baboon management team in carrying out their duties as it can result in dire consequences for these animals. Further details will be made available once the investigation is completed.

If you want to let your house or apartment for short-term rentals during weekends or holidays, it is advised that you familiarise yourself with the Municipal Planning by-laws.

Property owners and letting agents must check if there are any restrictive provisions or clauses in their property title deeds that prohibit such letting of the property. They must also make sure they comply with the regulations before letting out their own homes as a guesthouse or bed and breakfast (B&B) or self-catering establishment.

Homeowners also have the responsibility to ensure that they understand the extent of these regulations.

Should the property be located within a group housing estate or residential building, then it is important to consult the rules and guidelines of the development or first seek approval from the Body Corporate or Homeowners’ Association. 

The Food Safety Assurers Training Programme was initiated by the Department of Tourism in the Western Cape in August 2021 as a one-year training initiative.  The programme targeted unemployed youth and aimed to broaden employment opportunities in the hospitality and tourism sector. 

With more than 30 years of culinary training to their credit, Hermanus business, Warwick Professional Chef Training School was selected to teach the students while The Tourism Business Institute of SA managed operational requirements.

Overstrand Cape Whale Coast Tourism assisted with the recruitment of 20 students from the total of 113 selected to participate in the Western Cape.  Tourism also facilitated the placement of the students with hosts.