Neil McCartney

"The Kruger"

2012-01-04T21:26:00.000+02:00

It's great to get away every now and then and hide under my favourite rock, in other words go camping in the Kruger. And finally after years of looking, I seen a Leopard in the wild... in fact, I seen three different ones on the same day.

Probably my favourite frame of this outing, this Baboon seems to have a human quality.

One of the unfortunate things about the area around Skukuza is that any sighting of significance causes a great traffic jam.

Next time I'm going further north.

A Lilac-breasted roller eyes out a bug as it flies past.

A highly endangered Southern Ground Hornbill.

21 SAI

2011-12-01T22:40:00.000+02:00

The South African Infantry Battalion (21 SAI) held an open day to celebrate the units 35th Birthday, in Doornkop, near Soweto, Johannesburg. The day included a parade, the handover of new facilities and a demonstration of the units urban fighting capabilities.

Black Tuesday

2011-11-29T22:35:00.000+02:00

Radio DJ, Jeremy Mansfield and Abed Ahmed encourage cars to hoot in support during a protest in Sandton, Johannesburg. The protesters are against last weeks Parliamentary approval of the Privacy of State Information Bill, which has been dubbed Black Tuesday, and likened by many as a return to the type of government control enforced under apartheid.

#BlackTuesday

Mis(Dis)information

2011-11-28T23:23:00.001+02:00

Police cordon to stop people from entering Eastgate shopping center in Bedfordview, South Africa after a bomb was found in the center.
It remains unclear at time of writing if it was a real bomb (which has been confirmed by Police) or it was a box with some wires in it. (also been confirmed by Police)

First, the Eastgate center-management denied there was a bomb claiming it was a hoax, then turned around and said that it was one. Then the Police spokesperson confirmed to media that it was a bomb, and that it was left outside a jewellery shop in the center and that they destroyed it with a controlled explosion. Then the Provincial Police Chief Mzwandile Petros said it was not a bomb, it was just a box with some wires in it. On the scene a Policeman was so unsure of what he can say to the media that he wouldn't even tell me what unit he was in... WTF?
Is this the way it is to be in the future? Misinformation or disinformation through either incompetance or maliciousness!

Tomorrow marks one week since government voted for the Protection of State Information Bill. Although this is a much smaller matter. Is this the type of disinformation that will be spread by state agencies? I think so, whether it be through incompetence or maliciousness, it's definitely not good for our country or its people.

#BlackTuesday

Life's not fair!

2011-11-19T10:25:00.000+02:00

South African Francois Botha (Red trunks) and American Michael Grant during their WBF World Heavyweight Title fight at Montecasino, South Africa. Botha was controlling the fight until the last round when Grant managed to get a big hit on Botha knocking him out and winning the fight and the title.

Francois Botha was dominating the entire fight, that was until 37 seconds to go in the 12th and final round. If he had lasted these 37 seconds, he would have no doubt won the fight easily on points, but, it was not to be and with 37 seconds to go Michael Clark got his first decent punches in and knocked Francois out.

There were so few decent punches from Clark that this picture below is the only picture I got of him actually connecting with Francois during the entire fight, but this was not the knock out blow.

I sat in the corner, trying to keep my place all night, getting covered in blood, sweat and a bit of spit and when the time came I couldn't have been in a better position.

So, in keeping with the theme of this post, I've posted the picture above, a picture that I would never usually post because, well... it's not very good. I kinda cut off Clarks head in the haste to get the pic. But I decided to post it anyway. Just to show that even Pros slip up occasionally (I'm very sure Francois Botha would agree with me about that!)

The Lion Park

2011-11-12T16:03:00.000+02:00

One of a few White Lion Cubs at Cub World in the Lion Park in Honeydew, South Africa. Visitors can enter the enclosures and interact with the cubs.

White Lions relax during the midday heat in the Predator area.

A Cheetah rests under a tree in the Predator area of the park.

A young Meerkat peers out from his den in the Lion Park.

Lest We Forget

2011-11-11T13:50:00.001+02:00

A Remembrance Day ceremony held at the Ditsong National Museum of Military History in Saxonwold, Johannesburg. The last post was played and wreaths were laid on the 11th hour of the 11th day of November comemorating the Armistice that came into force to end World War 1. This ceremony is not about celebrating any victories, nor about boasting about any achievements, its simply to show respect to those that were willing to serve their country and make the ultimate sacrifice to allow us to live the peaceful life we live now.South African Deputy Minister of Defence, Tabang Makwetla lays a wreath as M.O.T.H and War-Veteran Arthur Owens sits on.

The last post is played as the flag is lowered and a two minute silence is held thereafter, the first minute is to give thanks for those that survived and the second to remember the fallen.

March to the Premier

2011-11-03T14:09:00.001+02:00

A group of about 500 members of the Ekurhuleni Concerned Resident Business and Enterprise Forum marched to the Gauteng Premiers office in the Johannesburg CBD to drop of a memorandum demanding that they investigate foreign business owners in various townships around Ekurhuleni. They have various gripes with foreigners (most specifically, Pakistani and Bangladeshi nationals) that own businesses in the townships and accuse some of them of criminal acts.

Could this be the start of more Xenophobic violence in the townships?

Mayfair shoot-out

2011-10-31T13:33:00.000+02:00

Police at a crime scene in Mayfair, Johannesburg. A bakkie crashed into a traffic light after a shoot-out between its occupants and police, One suspect was shot dead and a policeman was critically injured after being shot by another suspect during the incident.

The police seen a bakkie that they felt looked suspicious and attempted to stop it, the occupants then fired at the police and a chase took place and the suspects crashed. The shootout claimed the life of a suspect, hitting another and one policeman was also shot.

"Well Done!" to the cops for stopping these guys from doing what they where planning. Another even bigger "WELL DONE!" to the one that shot and killed the suspect. He would just get out on bail and commit another crime anyway. Four handguns and an assault rifle was taken from the suspects.

"Not so well done" to the policeman that accosted me at the scene, angrily forcing me to delete my pictures for no given or legal reason. I acted like I was distrought, as I deleted the empty memory card. I had quickly replaced the one in the camera, with an empty one, as I seen him come running up to me. Then I casually walked away with all the pics I had taken safely sitting on the card in my pocket. "No problem Officer, what ever you say..."

Police watch a Paramedic treat the shot suspect in the back of a police-van.

ANCYL March

2011-10-27T11:48:00.000+02:00

The ANCYL (African National Congress Youth League) held a march from Johannesburg to Pretoria to drop off a memorandum demanding the government create more jobs and assist with the economic freedom of the masses. They marched via the Chamber of Mines and the Johannesburg Stock exchange on their way to the Union Buildings in Pretoria.

I'm not a fan of the Youth League or Julius Malema, but lots of people are. I personally think they encourage divisions in South African society, they don't think their statements through and are sometimes blatently racist, but I agree with the fact that the youth need more opportunities. This march was about that (although, it could also have been about political survival for Julius Malema, he may well be on his way to being expelled from the ANC, as the powers that be seem bored with his many indiscretions) but, nevertheless, I agree with the principle. The youth need more jobs.

ANCYL President, Julius Malema in the yellow shirt.

Pretoria is pretty far from Johnnesburg, even driving there is not a short trip, I didn't think they would make it. I was listening to the radio and reading the Twitter feed during the night as the march continued, and I found myself wanting them to make it. I felt conflicted, as I don't agree with the vast majority of the things the Youth League say and do, not least of which is this poster below.

I found myself willing them on and hoping the would make it to Pretoria, which they eventually did on Friday morning, although a much smaller group of people.
Probably the reason I was rooting for them was because the "official" reason for the march, is something I believe in.
I think the ANC government must do something drastic to remedy the employment situation in South Africa.

That doesn't make me a closet Youth League Supporter, does it?

3 Babies at the Pilanesberg

2011-10-23T15:45:00.000+02:00

A Rhino calf with its mother at Pilanesberg National Park in the North West Province of South Africa.

An Elephant calf covered in dried mud.

A Zebra foal is herded away from us by its mother, as we attempt to get some pictures.

Honey Badger

2011-10-20T17:38:00.000+02:00

The Johannesburg Zoo celebrated the birthday of BG, their hand reared Honey Badger cub today, he turned one year old today.

I wasn't going to put a post up about this, as although it was quite nice to see, I don't regard it as something I would blog about. The only reason I'm including it, is that it was during this event I managed to do something that is on my "Must do before I die list".

Get bit by a Honey Badger... CHECK

Yep, the little guy bit me, OK to tell the truth it was more of a nip and he was just playing, but too not many people out there can say they have been bit by a Honey Badger.

Now, I can!

De Waal memorial

2011-10-19T10:02:00.000+02:00

Murdered teenager, Louise de Waal's mother is comforted by a family member during a memorial service held at Die Burger Highschool in Bergbron, Johannesburg.

The 17 year old was abducted at gunpoint whilst walking to school then raped and murdered on the 12 October 2011, her burnt body was found later that day on a farm in Magaliesburg. The man arrested for the murder and rape has allegedly confessed to being the "Sunday Rapist", who has also been linked to the rape of over ten young girls. He is also connected to the death of another one that died after she tried to escape by jumping out of his car more than a year ago.

Two of Louise's friends place a letter at a picture of her during the memorial service.

Family members release doves in a symbolic gesture after the memorial.It's always hard to photograph funerals and memorial services, there is always the feeling that you are intruding on a personal moment, but you got to do what you got to do. Sometimes even when you are invited, there is always some random person that feels the need to come over to us and give us their opinions on the fact that we are there and give us the "glare" everytime our shutter releases, although they will be the first to open the newspaper to look at the pictures the next day. More than a few times, I've personally been thanked by family members that appreciate the fact we are there. I'm sure the fact that the media is there confirms the importance of the loss they are feeling, it doesn't compound that loss.

Springboks return home

2011-10-10T12:17:00.000+02:00

Crowds of supporters wait for the Springbok coach Peter De Villiers, Captain John Smit, Victor Matfield and a few other Springboks to arrive at OR Tambo airport, South Africa after being beaten by Australia over the weekend.This loss knocked them out of the Rugby World Cup in New Zealand. South Africa is notoriously hard on their sporting teams when they don't perform, but many fans came to welcome the boys back. Although people were disapointed, the team was saved from the harsh public outcry by a few things including the almost universal condemnation of the referee for the quarter final, Bryce Lawrence and the shocking decisions he made during the match.

Springbok coach, Peter De Villiers looks up at supporters on the second level of the airport as he walks into the airport.

Retiring Springbok captain, John Smit and Vice-Captain Victor Matfield with his daughter on his lap during a press conference after they arrived back home.

2011 Muscle Evolution Grand Prix

2011-10-09T11:50:00.000+02:00

Michelle Price and Joe Manjoo warm up backstage during the pre-judging phase of the IFBB South Africa Muscle Evolution Grand Prix held at the Lyric theatre at Gold Reef City, Johannesburg.

Nina Richter in blue warms up backstage whilst Louise Van Der Nat prepares herself before taking part in the Ladies Body Fitness section.

Chris Finn gets the final touches before going on stage to compete.

The Masters section during the pre-judging phase of the IFBB South Africa Muscle Evolution Grand Prix held at the Lyric Theatre at Gold Reef City, Johannesburg.

Duduza Tornado

2011-10-05T11:37:00.000+02:00

I've lived in South Africa, most of my life and I have never heard of a tornado happening here. I drove to Duduza in Ekurhuleni after hearing about an apparent tornado. I assumed it would just have been a strong wind storm and expected a few roofs to be broken, some windows smashed and the like. When I arrived I was shocked, everything was destroyed. I spoke to some of the residents that confirmed it was a tornado. Some houses were simply gone, and just the foundations remained.

Roof sheeting wrapped around a telephone pole in Duduza, Ekurhuleni following the tornado.

A man cleans up the debris around the rubble of his house.

An elderly woman sits on the rubble of what used to be her home.

The South African Aid agency, Gift of the Givers responded with R2 million aid package which included building temporary shelter for 150 affected families, suppling food, new clothing and bottled water and other neccesities.

Kruger National Park

2011-10-02T10:17:00.000+02:00

A Tawny Eagle sits in a tree next to Napi road in the Kruger National Park, South Africa.

This Lion was just lying on the side of the road, it was quite good of him to stand up for a few seconds to allow me to get this shot. Then he just lay down again.

A Baboon sitting on a rock, lost in thought?

Three rare Wild Dog pups seen along Napi road in the Kruger National Park.

A young Baboon jumps from a tree as we drive by.

This large group of Hippos seemed very tense.

This lone Hyena came walking up to us along the road, he stopped at our car, had a look, wasn't interested in us, and simply carried on walking down the road.

Tembisa Protest

2011-09-30T09:52:00.000+02:00

Protesters block a road during a service delivery protest in Tembisa, Ekurhuleni, near Johannesburg, South Africa. The protesters blockaded roads with rocks, bottles, burning tyres and various other things they could find. The protest is mainly about the community wanting to buy electricity from Eskom directly and not from the Municipality, which they claim is full of corruption and nepotism.

Little Hasan

2011-09-12T16:48:00.000+02:00

The Gift of the Givers medical team had been in Mogadishu for few days, before they moved into an area that has been under the control of al-Shabab for years and they went into one of the only buildings that was in a decent condition in the area. They transformed it into a fully functioning hospital overnight. There was a large group waiting for them in the morning, the range of ailments was endless and the doctors got down to the business of helping the people.

5 year old Hasan Mohamed was one of the first seen. His arm was broken a few weeks earlier and some untrained people put his arm in a cast, but it was too tight causing his arm to swell drastically. His case was not the worst by a long shot, but you could see that he was nervous and scared.

As I sat with him and his father whilst they waited and then watched Dr Livan Turino change his cast and show the type of compassion they had probably never seen before, I knew that the Gift of the Givers team was in the right place.

After a simple changing of his cast, I could see that his nervousness and fear had gone, even his father seemed more content.

Hasan was just one of hundreds of people that the Gift of the Givers team helped, many of them much worse off than Hasan, but as he left in his fathers arms, I felt privileged to be in Mogadishu to see the great work that the medical team was doing.

Destruction in Mogadishu

2011-09-08T22:37:00.000+02:00

The remains of a African-Union tank in a crater in the middle of the road passing by the former Presidential Palace in Old Mogadishu.

The gutted remains of the former National Assembly buildings.

Some of the destruction of Old Mogadishu in the distance, as seen from one of the IDP camps in Mogadishu.

One thing you can't get away from in Mogadishu, is the scale of the damage caused by the decades long war. I can't imagine the ferocity of the fighting that has caused this amount of damage. Every single building in Old Mogadishu, without exception, has thousands of bullet pockmarks in them. Another thing that surprised me is that they are on every side of these buildings, meaning the shooting was coming from every angle. Trees, poles, the few remaining lamposts and barriers, everything is covered in bulletholes of various sizes, some of these buildings have been blown away by tanks, RPG's and various other weapons.

This is scene of a donkey cart on KM 4 in the new part of Mogadishu, I shot this scene above on 8th September 2011, on October the 4th 2011, militant Group al-Shabab blew up a truck bomb at the Ministry of Education, (just to the right of this frame) killing over 70 students waiting for results of their scholarships. So, the destruction continues...

Springbok Send-off

2011-09-01T12:08:00.000+02:00

The event held at Nelson Mandela Square in Sandton, Johannesburg to send the Springboks off on their mission to defend the William Webb Ellis trophy and to remain the World Cup champions in New Zealand at the 2011 Rugby World Cup.

Some of the Springbok rugby team on the stage during the send-off.

Springboks Fourie Du Preez, Bakkies Botha and Butch James sign posters on their way to catch the Gautrain to the airport.

Vodacom Challenge final

2011-07-23T11:46:00.000+02:00

Roman Pavlyuchenko shoots at goal during the Vodacom Challenge final between Orlando Pirates and Tottenham Hotspur at Coca Cola park in Johannesburg.Spurs won the match 3-0

Peter Crouch towers over Orlando Pirates Dikgang Mabalane during the game.

Rescue SA

2011-07-20T11:39:00.000+02:00

The Ambassador of Japan, Toshiro Ozawa presents a photo of the Rescue SA team as they where heading to Japan to Ian Scher from Rescue SA during an event in which a Japanese garden was also presented to Rescue SA at their headquarters in Isando, 20 July 2011. The garden is to commemorate Rescue SA's efforts in the Miyagi Prefecture in Japan helping Japan after the devastating Earthquake and Tsunami that happened on the 11th March 2011.

Marakele National Park

2011-07-01T11:57:00.000+02:00

A young White Rhino calf and his mother at the waterhole just a few hundred meters from the Bontle campsite in Marakele National Park in Limpopo.An Aardvark searches for some termite mounds in the late afternoon near the Bontle campsite.

This Caracal didn't know which way to run, as he glanced back and forth at the two cars on either side of him, eventually he figured out that the bush would be the best idea and he disappeared.

This little Steenbok was very curious about us and the usually shy animal came right up to us.

The only thing separating the campsite and the bush.

A view from the top of the mountain which can only be reached by driving up a thin mountain pass with a sheer drop on its one side and a cliff-face on the other.

Lunar Eclipse

2011-06-16T11:51:00.008+02:00

A composite picture of 12 photographs that were taken on the evening of the 15th June 2011 of the lunar eclipse as seen from Johannesburg. A lunar eclipse happens when the earth obscures the suns rays on the moon..

Power and Pride @ Emperors

2011-06-04T10:29:00.003+02:00

Heavyweight bout winner Francois Botha speaks to Brian Mitchell on Supersport TV after the Power and Pride boxing tournament at Emperors Palace.42 year old Francois" The White Buffalo" Botha beat the 21 year old heavyweight sensation Flo Simba, destroying his unbeaten record in the main fight of the night.

Unite!

2011-05-31T12:33:00.018+02:00

Freshly Ground (with a surprise appearance from radio DJ, Jeremy Mansfield) perform at Tanz Cafe in Fourways,Gauteng during the launch of the theme song for the Springboks Rugby World Cup campaign. Freshly Ground collaborated with Goldfish to record the song which urges South African to unite behind the Springboks when they play in the 2011 Rugby World Cup in New Zealand.

Dominic Peters from Goldfish performs at Tanz Cafe.

Power and Pride

2011-05-31T12:23:00.026+02:00

Francois "The Buffalo" Botha and Flo"Black Panther" Simba pose at a press conference before the Power and Pride Boxing tournament to be held at Emperors Palce in Gauteng on the 4th May.

I must admit, I'm looking forward to this fight, Francois looks tough, but he is a bit older, he has fought many of the best Heavyweight fighters in the world. Flo is a young and tough guy that likes to do his talking in the ring, I once saw him hit a guy so hard, that I was somewhat surprised when the guy got up, even if it was a few minutes later.

So, it's hard to call, but should be a brutal fight.

A bit of fireworks at the press conference when the fighters in one of the other fights almost got into it a bit early, Chris Van Heerden (left) and Bongani Mwelase left no-one in doubt, as to the contempt they have for each other, this welterweight fight promises to be a thriller as well.

Comrades 2011

2011-05-29T11:59:00.036+02:00

Zimbabwean Stephen Muzhingi wins the 89,9km Comrades marathon for the third year running.The Comrades Marathon took place from Durban to Pietermaritzburg this year and it draws competitors from all over the world ranging from top elite athletes to plodders that barely make the 12 hour cutoff time.

Russian twins Elena and Olesya Nurgalieva pose after Elena took first place and Olesya took second.

Everytime, I cover the Comrades or even watch it on TV, I get the urge to run it, there is something about the Comrades that is bigger than just a road running race, I have always said that I want to run it at least once.
I suppose I should get training....

Celtic Fest

2011-05-15T14:12:00.057+02:00

A lone piper prepares before competing in the Solo piper competition during Celtic Fest held at the Champetre estate in Modderfontein, Gauteng over the weekend. The Celtic Fest is an event that combines all the forms of Celtic arts including music, marching bands, folk dancing and cuisine.

Kilt maker, Egbert Von M Harmse works on the official South African Tartan.

Even the Loch Ness monster put in an appearance at Celtic Fest at the Champetre estate in Modderfontein over the weekend.

Badges promoting South African Tartan Day to be held on the 1st July 2011, when people are encouraged to wear their Tartan to work as a celebration of the repealing of the abolishment of Tartans in 1782 allowing the people of Scotland to freely wear their clans Tartan during Celtic Fest.

Robbery

2011-05-03T16:29:00.011+02:00

Two crashed cars at the intesection of Modderfontein and Emerald in Greenstone, Edenvale. Security guards chased the Toyota after catching them attempting to rob someone in Glenhazel, after a long chase the Toyota hit a Bakkie and crashed into a lightpost. The four suspects fled leaving behind a firearm, but 3 of them were caught by the police a bit later.

Rubbish

2011-04-18T16:28:00.019+02:00

Traders are forced to trade in very unhygenic conditions due to the build up of garbage in the Johannesburg CBD due to the Pikitup stike, 18 April 2011. Having been in the dodgier places of the Johannesburg CBD many times, I'm used to the piles of garbage, the smells and the garbage all over the place, but this was in a different league. The piles of rubbish were all over the place , traders were still selling their veggies, cooked food etc because they have no choice. It's unbelievable...

Militant Malema

2011-04-14T16:25:00.013+02:00

ANC Youth League President, Julius Malema flanked by at heavily armed guards arrives at the High Court in Johannesburg, 14 April 2011.Julius Malema is facing charges of Hate Speech after his singing of a song entitled "Shoot the Boer".

Swazi protest

2011-04-12T16:22:00.013+02:00

COSATU members march the last few hundred meters to the Oshoek borderpost linking South Africa to Swaziland, 12 April 2011. They are protesting against the human rights abuses that happen in the country. The country is the only country in the world that still has an absolute monarchy.

Sho't Left-Limpopo

2011-03-29T12:02:00.037+02:00

Hangklip in the distance at The Legend Golf Resort at the Waterberg in Limpopo, South Africa during a media trip to Limpopo launching the 2011 Sho't Left campaign, which encourages South Africans to take the road less travelled and see the hidden jewels that various places around South Africa have to offer.

The extreme 19th hole at The Legend Golf Resort at the Waterberg in Limpopo as seen from a chopper. The novelty hole includes flying in a chopper to the tee on the top of the Waterberg and driving the ball towards the Africa shaped green down below.

Cassie, a young white lioness at the Legend Wildlife and Cultural center at the Waterberg in Limpopo

Duma, a young white lion at the Legend Wildlife and Cultural center at the Waterberg in Limpopo.

Two female cubs from the Rezo pride at the Legend Wildlife and Cultural center.

A fully grown white lion at the Legend Wildlife and Cultural center.

Traditional dancing at the Royal Kraal of the Modjadji Rain Queen

The Sunland Boabab tree which is estimated to be from 1000 to 6000 years old near Leeudraai is naturally hollow and the owners have put a fully functioning bar inside the tree.

Dreamgirls

2011-03-08T11:58:00.011+02:00

The musical, Dreamgirls opened at the Teatro in Montecasino, Johannesburg on the 11th March 2011.

Fire them all....

2011-03-07T11:55:00.031+02:00

Heaps of garbage in Ekurhuleni after striking workers closed the gates of an already full dump site. The DA's James Lorimer took The Citizen on a tour of some of these sites that have formed because of the three week long municipal workers strike, 7 March 2011. The DA says it has a comprehensive plan to end the strike but it has been ignored. Some elements of this plan include firing all the striking workers, arresting all workers involved in violence which included the burning death of one man in Nigel, the calling on the help of the SAPS to ensure no more violence takes place and the use of temporary labour to open the dump sites as well as a long term plan to contract out refuse removal to avoid further problems in the future.

I couldn't agree more with the DA on this issue ALL the striking workers MUST be fired and the service must be contracted out. The ANC would never allow that to happen, as the union that organises these strikes has way to much control over them. These union members act like a law unto themselves.

The Adventurer

2011-02-14T11:49:00.023+02:00

Riaan Manser and Dan Skinstad during a press conference at the Da Vinci hotel where Riaan announced his next adventure which will see him and Dan Skinstad circumnavigate Iceland. "Around Iceland on Inspiration" sees Riaan conquer a new world as well as Dan conquering his own disability.The expedition will begin in late March and is estimated to take four months to complete.Riaan Manser has previously rode around the edge of Africa on a bicycle and circumnavigated Madagascar in a kayak

Having read Riaan Mansers book" Around Africa on my bike", I must admit I feel inspired to do something similar, but as he aludes to in his book the hardest part is the first meter, if you manage to get there, the rest is relatively easy. I can see what he means.

Hopefully, I'll get round to getting to the first meter of my journey one day...

Ivory Park Floods

2011-01-18T21:28:00.003+02:00

A young boy looks at the effects of flooding at the Baghdad section of Ivory Park.

Defender Trophy

2011-01-15T21:27:00.003+02:00

Team Vlakvark during the selections for the Defender Trophy took place at Gerotek testing facility near Hartebeespoort. Participants were tested on their vehicle skills, recovery skills and water crossing skills to ensure that all competitors in the Defender Trophy, formerly known as the Camel Trophy are prepared for the serious off road challenges ahead of them in Venda. The Defender Trophy will be in Venda from 16 - 20 February 2011 this year after being in Swaziland last year.

IEC Launch

2011-01-12T21:26:00.002+02:00

Dancers unveil the 2011 municipal elections logo at the launch at Gallagher estate in Midrand.

EFC 06

2010-12-02T21:25:00.002+02:00

Andrew Van Zyl chokes Raymond Ahana during EFC Africa 06 at the Coca Cola Dome.

Eviction

2010-11-30T21:22:00.006+02:00

A young girl plays oblivious to the eviction of a section of the Ramaphoza informal settlement near Reiger Park in Germiston.

A woman reacts to the Red Ants tearing down her house during an eviction from the Ramaphoza informal settlement near Reiger Park.

It's heart breaking going to these evictions, as the people that live in these squatter camps don't really have anywhere else to go. Very often they just sit on their belongings and wait... for what I don't know, but it sometimes looks as though they simply don't know what to do.

Supporters

2010-11-26T21:21:00.002+02:00

New Springbok supporters Club Ambassadors, Jeremy Mansfield, Shaun Bartlett, Matthew Booth, Mahreen Chenia, Proverb, Nicole Flint and Emanuel Castis at the Canterbury shop at The Zone in Rosebank.

Nicole

2010-11-16T21:19:00.002+02:00

Nicole's father Rudy Lohmann sits with the casket before Nicole Lohmann's funeral at the Lighuis Church in Brakpan.

Demi

2010-11-10T21:14:00.003+02:00

Demi Jackson and Sean Newman speak to The Citizen regarding alleged fraud by a Teazers financial officer at Teazers Rivonia.

"The War"

2010-11-06T11:29:00.006+02:00

Thomas" Tommy Gun" Oosthuizen and Isaac Chilembe battle it out during the main fight at "The War" at Emperors Palace in Kempton Park

These guys really went for it, both of them were beating and getting beaten quite seriously, the match ended in a draw, even though I was rooting for Tommy Gun, I think that it was a fair result.

I can't wait for the rematch..

Suicide

2010-11-02T15:45:00.014+02:00

A man climbed a power pylon in Kempton Park, Gauteng. Police believed he wanted to jump after he was dumped by his girlfriend, but after a few hours the police managed to talk him down. This picture shows him when he was considering jumping to hang on the wires in the middle, had he done that, there would have been some serious fireworks.

Lucky for him, he decided against it, good thinking...

Sun Dog

2010-11-01T15:43:00.007+02:00

The ring that formed around the sun was caused by crystals suspended in Cirrus clouds reflecting light in all directions creating the illusion of a ring. Some of the theories of the reasons for this phenomenon ranged from strange to simply bizarre, Some said the aliens where coming, I must admit I thought it was unusual, but I sure didn't think the mothership was landing, some people sure are insane...

Gautrain Pretoria

2010-10-21T15:32:00.003+02:00

Gautrain workers apply the finishing touches on the second phase of the Gautrain in Pretoria.The Gautrain will connect Johannesburg to Pretoria which may well help with the crazy traffic on the highways connecting these two cities every day.

Bruma's Toxic waste dump

2010-10-18T21:05:00.001+02:00

Hazardous waste cleaners work on Bruma Lake , 18 October 2010. The Jukskei River Catchment Area Managment Forum has undertaken to clean up Bruma Lake as much as they can, as they have had no help from the Enviromental Planning and Management of Johannesburg.They are appealling to corporates to join them and LeadSA in cleaning up this lake that joins the Crocodile and eventually finds its way into Hartebeespoort Irrigation Dam which waters about 33% of South Africas vegetable produce posing a serious threat to the health of all South Africans.

Yes, I know, it's been a while...

2010-10-15T20:35:00.021+02:00

It's been a while since I updated my blog, I guess the hangover of the World Cup lasted longer than expected...

No, not really, I've just been lazy and also having a hell of a time figuring out how to upload photos on the new version of Blogger. Anyhow, I'm back now and have uploaded a few pics of some of the things I've photographed since the World Cup.

A train carriage lies next to the track near Thokoza, Gauteng after a passenger train hit a stationary goods train, 10 September 2010

Miss Nude Australia, Suzie Q performs at Sexpo, the health, sexuality and lifestyle expo held at Gallagher Estate, JohannesburgChett Meyer(black trunks) and James Le Roux in the light heavyweight division during the Extreme Fighting Championships 04 held at the Coca Cola dome, 5 August 2010.Winner Darren Daniels celebrates after winning his middleweight bout against Dallas Jakobi during the Extreme Fighting Championships 04 held at the Coca Cola dome.

2010 FIFA World Cup

2010-07-11T15:41:00.011+02:00

Mikey Schultz

2010-07-08T15:17:00.010+02:00

Admitted Kebble Hitman, Mikey Schultz comes out for a rematch against Tineyi Maridzo after losing his previous fight against him by knockout.Tineyi Maridzo knocked Mikey Schultz out for the second time during the Neo Africa's The Rematch held at Wembley Stadium in Johannesburg, 8 July 2010 in which the main event was a rematch between Mikey Schultz and Zimbabwean Tineyi Maridzo for the WBO Super middleweight title.

Shakira

2010-06-07T16:11:00.001+02:00

Shakira tries in vain to stop police manhandling photographers when she arrived at OR Tambo airport this morning.Yet again, the best laid plans get messed up by power drunk police. Everything was organised by the record company and Shakira's PR for a select few media houses to get pictures of Shakira, as she arrived to perform at the Kickoff concert on Thursday night. The police in typical fashion where very aggresive towards everyone, even to the point of assaulting some other photographers. Why do I write this like I'm shocked? It's not the first or the last time...

Nigeria in Tembisa

2010-06-06T16:09:00.001+02:00

A Nigerian fan holds up a flag after police had to intervene to stop a crowd of Nigerian fans from storming the Tembisa stadium where Nigeria was playing North Korea in a Pre-World Cup friendly.There was thousands of people that were not allowed into the stadium, it was chaos. People were jumping the wall into the stadium, some just peered over the wall trying to get a glimpse of the game.

Pirate DVDs

2010-06-03T16:07:00.001+02:00

Pirate DVDs lie everywhere in a house in Dowerglen, Edenvale.The Gauteng Task Team raided the house which was overun with copied DVDs and where lying all over the house. There was about 15 000 DVDs worth over R1 Million. I've never seen so many DVDs in one place before, this guy must have constantly been writing these discs, his bed was covered with them and he slept on the couch in the living room, every room in the house was full of copied discs. Busy guy...

Flags

2010-06-03T16:01:00.001+02:00

Flags adorn the highway from OR Tambo airport.

Gautrain up and running

2010-06-02T16:03:00.001+02:00

The Gautrain will officially open for business on Tuesday the 8th June 2010. I was on it during a media trip and the entire trip brought back memories of traveling from Glasgow to Edinburgh and London. Hello First World, we're not there yet, but we sure are on our way.

Springbok Bafana

2010-05-27T20:18:00.002+02:00

Springbok coach, Peter De Villiers presented his football counterpart Carlos Alberto Parreira with a special jersey to wish Bafana Bafana well for the upcoming World Cup during an event at the Southern Sun Grayston Hotel, Sandton.Bafana captain, Aaron Moekoena jokes with Springbok captain, John Smit about whether the Bafana shirt would fit him.

Ramaphoza

2010-05-24T20:17:00.001+02:00

Residents of Ramaphoza informal settlement protest over housing and poor service delivery.There was a large contingent of police overseeing the protesters and the housing department promised to return to them with answers to their memorandum in two days. Typically in these situations the goverment people come and make a few promises and everyone disperses happy until a few months later, they realise nothing has changed and protest again, maybe the guy with the poster demanding back his vote has the right idea, at least until the next election comes and the ruling party come back with all the promises of a better life for all, hand out a few t-shirts and convince the people that they will get lots of free stuff and NOW is their time... If it wasn't so sad, it would be funny...

Football and Rugby in Soweto

2010-05-22T20:14:00.001+02:00

Soweto was a busy place today, as two major events were held just a few kilometers away from each other. The Nedbank Cup final between eventual winners Bidvest Wits and Amazulu was held at Soccer City in its inaugural professional match, whilst Orlando Stadium hosted the Blue Bulls Super 14 semi final against the Crusaders from New Zealand.
This was the first time rugby of this calibre had been brought to the township and it was embraced by all and regarded by some to be as important a step in reconciliation as Nelson Mandela wearing the Springbok jersey in 1995.
It was a total success with the Bulls win securing a Super 14 final in Soweto next week, which will no doubt be a success, not only for Soweto, but for the entire South Africa as it's guaranteed to be a South African victory, as the two finalists are the Bulls from Pretoria and the Stormers from Cape Town. A victory for South Africa in so many ways...

Special Task Force

2010-05-17T19:54:00.001+02:00

The Police's Special Task Force had a display of their skills during a simulated hijacking/hostage situation during an event in Sandton, Johannesburg to show their readiness to tackle any potential problems during the World Cup to be held in South Africa next month.

Lolly's funeral

2010-05-10T21:37:00.001+02:00

Family and friends carry the casket of Lolly Jackson to his grave site.Two of Lolly Jacksons former bodyguards carry a portrait of him after his funeral at the South Park cemetary in Elspark, Ekurhuleni.Lolly Jacksons eldest son, Manoli is comforted by Lollys wife, Demi at his grave site, he was buried between his parents and his late son, George Zachary, that died as an infant in 1982.

Another heist gone wrong

2010-05-05T21:36:00.001+02:00

The body of a suspect shot dead after a group tried to rob a cash in transit vehicle delivering money to an ATM, next to the Elandsfontein train station, in Germiston. The suspect allegedly ran into a shop and was shot dead by one of the guards. Another feel good story:)

Big Lolly's house

2010-05-05T21:29:00.001+02:00

Teazers was closed the day after Lolly was murdered, but was open for business the next evening, after the staff had a meeting. They decided that it was "business as usual", they said that's what Lolly would have wanted.Teazers is well known for its controversial advertising billboards , this dig at the ANC Womans Leagues recent protests at various Teazers branches was the last one Lolly worked on.

"King of Teaze" murdered

2010-05-03T21:14:00.001+02:00

The house in Edleen, Kempton Park photographed a few hours after Lolly Jackson was murdered. Lolly Jackson was a controversial businessman that owned a string of strip clubs and tens of millions of rands in sports cars.A shocked Sean Newman, spokesman for Teazers strip club speaks to media outside the house.A mortuary van comes to collect the body of Lolly Jackson.

Bafana back home

2010-04-30T13:38:00.001+02:00

The South African national football team (Bafana Bafana) arrived back home this morning from a training camp in Germany.Matthew Booth speaks to some of the fans that gathered at OR Tambo airport.Teko Modise talks to Saddam Maake, one of the supporters at the airport.Goalkeeper, Itumeleng Khune and Katlekgo Mashekgo

Eden Park unrest

2010-04-15T15:19:00.003+02:00

Police fire their 9mm handguns at protesters during a protest over evictions at Eden Park, Ekurhuleni.There was chaos in Eden Park, the crowd was looking to get into the council offices and set it on fire, the police stood behind a fence, then all hell broke loose. I dived behind a tree to avoid the rubber bullets being fired in my direction by the police and the rocks being thrown by the protesters from behind. A few protesters joined me in what seemed like a bit of a queue behind this tree, I assume they thought I knew what I was doing :) Just after that I heard a louder bang from behind me and one of the protesters next to me dropped, I looked at him, as the shooting had stopped and the majority of the people had dispersed. He was shot with a live round through the upper arm, although I seen the police shooting their 9mm's from a moving car earlier, I think one of the protesters shot at the police and shot the poor guy about a meter away from me. A bit too close for comfort.

Police extinguish a truck and tractor set on fire by protesters. An elderly woman that was shot with a rubber bullet a close range is dragged to a waiting car. A young protester writhes in pain after being shot throught the arm during protests against evictions in Eden Park, Ekurhuleni.

Eugene Terreblanche's funeral

2010-04-09T15:04:00.001+02:00

The gate of AWB leader Eugene Terreblanche's farm where he was murdered in Ventersdorp. I covered the funeral of AWB leader Eugene Terreblanche a few days after he had been beaten to death on his farm in Ventersdorp. Ventersdorp is a strange place with echoes of the tune from "Deliverance" floating about. There is a definite divide between the white and the black folk, one that seems on the most part to be respected, from what I seen they work together when necessary and stay away from each other when not. It's not an ideal situation, but it seems somewhat peaceful... That was until two labourours killed Eugene Terreblanche and all the old AWB regalia was dusted off and brought out to stand pride of place again, to tell the truth, on the day I was somewhat worried about the potential, and had flash backs of various scenes from the news of long ago, but now I'm convinced that in general this country is way too smart to allow a criminal act and a few idiotic politicians to drag us back into the past.

Boxing @ Emperors Palace

2010-03-30T14:50:00.001+02:00

Jub Jub Court protest

2010-03-19T13:02:00.001+02:00

A young protester hurls a stone at the police water cannon after it sprayed a section of the crowd, (including me :) during a protest outside the Protea Magistrates Court in Soweto. The students are protesting over a case in which a local hip hop star, Jub Jub is being charged with murder after driving into and killing four students during a drag race and was found to be under the influence of cocaine and alcohol.

Parkour at Soccer City

2010-03-18T12:57:00.001+02:00

Parkour is the physical discipline of training to overcome any obstacle within one's path by adapting one's movements to the environment.

Ivory Park protest

2010-03-15T11:35:00.001+02:00

Another service delivery protest, same old, same old. When will these people demanding free houses, free electricity, free everything realise that the government doesn't care if they destroy their areas by burning tyres and and emptying rubbish all over the roads, the powers that be are too busy filling their own pockets with the money...I spoke to one young protester, who told me they wanted free houses, free electricity, free education, better roads etc. I asked him if they wanted jobs to be created, he didn't seem too keen about that.

Swan Lake Ballet

2010-03-11T12:34:00.001+02:00

The full dress rehearsal of Swan lake that runs at the Joburg Theatre from the 12th March.

EFC

2010-03-10T12:31:00.001+02:00

An ice sculpture at the Extreme Fighting Championships at the Coca Cola dome on Wednesday 10th March 2010.Remo Ralph in a choke hold by the eventual winner in the Welterweight class, Nolan Swanepoel.Eventual winner Darren Daniel (with the vampire teeth gumguard) fights Jacque Joubert in the grudge match in the light heavyweight class.

World cup stadiums

2010-03-08T12:53:00.003+02:00

I went on a tour of all the FIFA World Cup stadiums in South Africa last week, we travelled to each stadium, 7 flights flying a total of around 4200 km's, 24 buses. Travelling to 7 provinces and 9 host cities, all in 5 days... Hectic schedule, but I must admit, I had a great time.Cape Town stadium is easily the best, not the biggest (that honour goes to Soccer City), but it's the location, the design, simply it's the whole package.The Royal Bafokeng stadium in Rustenburg, will host a match between England and the USA.The Mbombela stadium in Nelspruit has a unique design, it's missing the pitch, but apparently it only needs 6 weeks to grow. So it's not a problem, yet...The Nelson Mandela Bay stadium in Port Elizabeth, is also quite impressive.The David Mokaba stadium in Polokwane impressed me quite a bit.Unfortunately the stadium in Bloemfontein seems bland and dull compared to the rest, but it's ready to do the job.Soccer City in Johannesburg is a monster of a stadium, it can hold around 94 000 spectators and it will for the 2010 World Cup final. Moses Mabhida stadium in Durban has a great design and has already hosted international matches.

Malema

2010-02-22T12:53:00.001+02:00

The only reason Malema is so influential, is because the media always feels the need to publicise every random comment he makes, and he knows this...

Soweto Derby

2010-02-20T12:51:00.001+02:00

The Soweto Derby between Orlando Pirates and Kaiser Chiefs at Orlando Stadium in Soweto, 20 February 2010.

Fight Club

2010-02-19T12:50:00.001+02:00

Julio Gallegos and Jeremy"The Pitbull" Smith during the main event of the Xtreme Fight Championships held 'Fight Night" at Wembley stadium near Turfontein, Johannesburg. 14 bouts of mixed martial arts fights during the Xtreme Fight Championships" Fight night".

Taxi violence

2010-02-19T12:41:00.001+02:00

A burnt taxi at the Germiston taxi rank after violence erupted in the early hours, 19 February 2010. Taxi violence is constantly simmering over routes and erupts into violence every now and then, generally ending up in some innocent commuter getting shot. The police and the government have no power over the thugs that run this untaxed industry that generates millions of rands.

Airbus A380

2010-02-18T17:23:00.001+02:00

An Air France Airbus A380 comes in to land at OR Tambo airport in Johannesburg. This is the second time an A380 has landed at OR Tambo, but its the first commercial flight to land in South Africa.

Eviction

2010-02-08T14:09:00.001+02:00

74 year old Lettie Ngoma after being evicted by the Red Ants from Riverglen near Dainfern, Johannesburg.Some of the belongings of evicted people lies on the grass next to the main road. Some people where still at work and would only find out that they had been evicted when they returned home.One of the Red Ants taunts the evictees as they leave the area.Mavis Kubayi sorts through her belongings after being evicted.

Lory Park Zoo

2010-02-06T14:08:00.004+02:00

A young Puma cub named Chazu jumps at the camera during a visit to Lory Park Zoo in Midrand, near Johannesburg. Lory Park Zoo is a private zoo that houses amongst others, puma, lions, tigers and leopard. They also have a wide collection of birds including many species of owls and parrots. An Ocelot paces in his enclosure.

A King Vulture in his enclosure. The King Vulture is indiginous to Central and South America and is found in tropical lowland forests stretching from southern Mexico to northern Argentina.

A Siberian tiger rests in his pond during a very hot day.

Shooting

2010-02-05T14:07:00.001+02:00

A car that was stolen in Pretoria lies on the pavement next to Fourways Crossing in Fourways after it crashed when police in a helicopter fired on it during a chase. One suspect was arrested but the other managed to get away.

Selebi

2010-02-01T14:06:00.001+02:00

Former National Police Commissioner, Jackie Selebi arrives at the High Court in Johannesburg.

Million Dollar Pigeon Race

2010-01-30T14:04:00.001+02:00

The Million Dollar Pigeon race winner, Ali comes in to land at the loft.The Million Dollar Pigeon race is regarded by pigeon fanciers as the greatest pigeon race in the world, with thousands of pigeon fanciers coming from 32 countries across the world to take part. The pigeons are released from Trompsburg, some 550km south of Sun City on Saturday morning 6 am and the winning bird arrived at 15h42 in the afternoon.The prize money totaled $1.2 Million plus hot spot winners winning cars and the overall winner pocketed $200 000.A pigeon rests on the loft before entering it after the race.Number tags to be put on the legs of the birds confirming their place in the race.Karel Klemens from the Czech Republic kisses his pigeon, Ali after it won the Million Dollar Pigeon race.One of the top 100 pigeons during the auction for the winning birds, Ali, the bird that won the race the day before was sold for R135 000.

Kibbutz Lubner

2010-01-28T13:59:00.001+02:00

Kibbutz Lubner located in Olifantsfontein, Midrand is a Israeli styled Kibbutz that has 22 residents that are intellectually disabled. This gives them the opportunity, tools and training to farm plants and vegtables in a safe fullfilling environment. The Kibbutz is run under the auspices of Chevrah Kadisha, a Jewish charity organisation that has many projects including Selwyn Segal that runs homes for intellectually disabled people from all walks of life.Beverly Cohen works in the laundry.72 year old Max Cohen says that the people at the Kibbutz are like his family. Leon Krawitz works in the kitchen.Joshua Granville on the farmland that he tends at Kibbutz Lubner.Beverly Cohen also works in the laundry.

Haitian earthquake

2010-01-16T09:27:00.001+02:00

Former President of Haiti, Jean Bertrand Aristide, now exiled in South Africa cries as he speaks of his willingness to return to Haiti after the 7.0 earthquake that destroyed the majority of Port Au Prince and killed hundreds of thousands of people.

Superstars

2009-12-13T13:18:00.001+02:00

The Superstar International V8 racing series is an Italian race series featuring V8 engine models from BMW, Audi, Maserati, Chrysler and Mercedes Benz.Winner Luca Rangoni during the Superstar International V8 racing series held at Kyalami.

Telkom tower

2009-12-13T13:15:00.001+02:00

A large football on the Telkom tower in Johannesburg. It's part of an advertising campaign for Telkom before the start of the 2010 World Cup.

Soccer City again.

2009-12-11T12:36:00.002+02:00

The almost complete tunnel leading from the change rooms to the field is made up to look like a mineshaft to celebrate Johannesburg'g goldmine history.It's certainly going to be interesting for the foreign players that are used to luxury.

Pirelli calendar launch

2009-12-09T12:30:00.001+02:00

The Pirelli Calendar launch held at Circa in Rosebank, Johannesburg.Some of the artwork by Willem Boshoff on display at Circa in Rosebank.

Invictus

2009-12-08T15:35:00.001+02:00

American actor Morgan Freeman poses for photographers at The Saxon in Johannesburg,before attending the premiere of "Invictus", in which he portrays Nelson Mandela in the historic times surrounding the 1995 Rugby World Cup held in South Africa and is widely regarded as a pivotal moment in the history of South Africa.

"Deadly force"

2009-12-07T15:33:00.001+02:00

South African National Police Commissioner, Bheki Cele speaks at an event in Primedia's building in Sandton, Johannesburg.There has been a controversy surrounding some statements from Bheki Cele recently, but generally I agree with him that the only way to deal with crime is with a strong hand, and a criminal pointing a firearm at the police (or anybody) must die in a hail of bullets. The problem lies with some of the police members, I'm not sure that they will all use "deadly force" at appropriate times, as has been demonstrated a few times recently when innocent civilians were killed by trigger happy cops.

The Garden of Lights

2009-12-03T15:32:00.003+02:00

The Garden of Lights at Emperors Palace in Kempton Park, South Africa.Every year Emperors creates a wonderland of lights in the hotels gardens for Christmas.

Police fitness

2009-12-02T15:12:00.001+02:00

Former Champion boxer Baby Jake Matlala puts some members of the South African Police Service throught their paces at the Standard Bank Arena in Johannesburg during a six hour exercise session aimed at improving the police's fitness.

The Toy Run

2009-11-29T12:02:00.001+02:00

The annual Toy Run took place from various starting points in Gauteng, South Africa and thousands of bikers of all shape, ages and sizes with an armful of toys congregated at Nasrec in Johannesburg. Some of the thousands of toys collected on the day.Here's my baby, my Yamaha TW200, that goes anywhere...and everywhere.

Soccer City Coin launch

2009-11-23T11:48:00.001+02:00

A pure gold coin photographed during its launch at Soccer City, the stadium to host the World Cup final. The coin is one of a series to celebrate the 2010 World Cup that will happen in South Africa next year.

Best President?

2009-11-10T15:47:00.001+02:00

Jacob Zuma and his wife Nompumelelo Ntuli at the Africa Conciousness media leadership awards ceremony held at the Sandton Convention center.Jacob Zuma behind Kenneth Kuanda during the event that he was given an award for being the "Best African President". I'm not too sure whether he deserves it , He hasn't really done much, other than talk. So, I wonder how they justified their decision, maybe its just the case that the competition was really weak.