Strand and Macassar volunteers named Rookies of the Year

Two local volunteers, Lleyton Bazier of Macassar and Denise Solomons of Strand, have been recognised among the top 10 Rookies of the Year by the City’s Disaster Risk Management Centre.

The annual awards honour volunteers for exceptional service, with winners selected based on their overall performance and the number of hours dedicated to community support. The Disaster Risk Management Centre has hosted the ceremony for the past 13 years.

Mr Bazier, who joined the centre in October 2023, said the recognition came as a surprise.

“I felt accomplished and very proud of myself for dedicating my time to help and assist those in my community. Winning Rookie of the Year wasn’t something I expected. I was shocked when I received the award, but I’m grateful that my dedication and hard work led to me achieving the award,” he said.

Ms Solomons described receiving the award as a “privilege” and said it was “by the grace of God” that she was recognised. She joined the centre in March last year.

Award categories included long service awards, certificates of appreciation, unit of the year, rookies of the year, and volunteers with the highest number of service hours logged.

Mayoral committee member for safety and security JP Smith praised all the winners for their commitment to public safety.

“I want to express my thanks to them for their service and dedication, and for running towards the fires and floods and other public safety demands that Cape Town has to navigate annually,” he said.