On Friday, 08 May 2026, the Cape Winelands District Municipality (CWDM) Fire Services hosted the Fire Services Passing Out Parade at the CWDM’s Fire Training Academy in Stellenbosch. The event honoured 29 candidates from across the Cape Winelands (Stellenbosch Municipality, CWDM, Breede Valley Municipality, Langeberg Municipality, Overstrand Municipality, Oudtshoorn Municipality), the South African Navy and Transnet who successfully completed the NFPA 1001 Firefighter II course – an internationally recognised qualification preparing them to serve and protect their communities.
Executive Mayor Ald. (Dr) Elna von Schlicht praised the Autumn Class of 2026, reminding them that firefighting is built on discipline and sacrifice. “Fire does not recognise municipal boundaries, titles, or backgrounds; it only recognises courage, preparation, and teamwork. Discipline saves lives,” she said.
Firefighters went through a rigorous six‑week programme starting on the 30March 2026, where students studied theory, attended daily PT and practicals, and sacrificed their evenings and weekends to study. This was quite an intense course that demanded students to be spiritually and emotionally strong.
The event also celebrated Jaco Thuynsma, Manager: Fire Services Support for CWDM, for his 40 years of excellence in service. Reflecting on his journey, he recalled hydrant drills on the parade ground, colleagues lost in the line of duty, sacrifices made away from family, and the traditions that shaped the fire service. “It was always about recovery. Time spent here was never wasted, it was invested in service,” he said. His reflection resonated deeply with the words of Heinrich Louw, Head of Training (CWDM’s Fire Services), who offered a message titled “The Gift of Time”. “To exist is simply to occupy time. But to live – to truly live – is to fill time with purpose, with meaning, with service to something greater than yourself. You have chosen to live. Use time well. Use it bravely. Use it in service.” he expressed.
Chief Fire Officer, Wayne Josias encouraged graduates to embrace resilience and humility. “Life will present storms, but with faith and adaptability, you can achieve your aspirations. While others may flee from danger, you will stand firm and confront it. This is not a job, it’s a calling. Integrity, courage, and respect are the cornerstones of our profession,” he said.
Four students were recognised with Awards of Excellence: Student of the Course – Marshall Koopman (Oudtshoorn Municipality); Best Theoretical and Best Academic Student – Gerswin Muller (CWDM); Most Improved Student – Caymen Muller; and Most Disciplined Student – Tersius Booysen.
Gerswin Muller, shared his journey:
“The hardest part for me was returning after completing Firefighter I and feeling very small. Working with new equipment was intimidating and overwhelming at first, but now that I have finally completed the training, I feel much better and far more confident.”
The ceremony marked the beginning of the graduates’ professional journey. The CWDM continues to remain committed to building safer, stronger communities through excellence in training and service.
