With just a few days until the 16th annual DSTV Kyknet Mitchell’s Plain Festival, which is hosted in association with the Plainsman and Heart FM, it is all systems go for Mitchell’s Plain’s biggest event of the year taking place at Westridge Gardens from Friday November 29 to Sunday December 1.
Organisers Cycle of Life have confirmed that safety and emergency plans are in place to ensure that festival goers are protected while enjoying the festivities.
“We have a professional and PSIRA-registered security company providing security services at the event. This company has been with us since inception and knows our audiences, knows the community and have built a relationship with the public over the last 16 years,” said festival director Rozario Brown.
“We also have the local neighbourhood watch members supporting the security company. They will focus on the perimeters of the venue, back up the car guards protecting the vehicles outside and regularly walk the area around the festival grounds.
“We also have a registered medical service provider doing our medical support in case of any medical emergencies or eventualities. These teams will be supported by the police, law enforcement, metro police, disaster management and fire and rescue services from the City of Cape Town.”
According to Mr Brown, a team of professional electricians will ensure that the event is powered up and that there are no or minimal electricity supply issues.
“The festival is completely off the grid and runs off generators. We also have our event support staff who will interact with the vendors, electricians and other critical staff to ensure that the event runs smoothly,” he said.
Nearly 95 stalls, exhibitions and activations, which include food, clothing, ice cream, gadgets, toys, and cellular and banking activations, have been confirmed for this weekend’s festival.
There will be 12 thrill carnival rides for the young and young at heart and a variety of kids’ entertainment, including jumping castles, slides and face painting.
“We expect the SANDF to make a return with another spectacular military display and recruitment drive to attract new members into its ranks. The South African Police Services will display their various units and services, and showcase their readiness for all eventualities,” he said.
Mr Brown called on families and neighbours to come together at the festival, which is an alcohol and substance free event.
“This event is a perfect opportunity to families and neighbours to come together and celebrate all the positive things happening in their community and within their streets. The event remains an alcohol-free event, meaning that we do not allow the sale of alcohol at this event and we have a zero tolerance policy towards illegal drugs and substances at this event,” he said.
Meanwhile, Lentegeur police have advised motorists to be vigilant when parking their vehicles along Morgenster Road to avoid becoming victims of car theft.
They offered the following tips:
- Avoid parking in isolated areas alongside Morgenster Road.
- Ensure vehicles are properly locked and security systems are activated.
- Remove any valuables from view to reduce temptation for thieves.
- Consider using monitored parking areas if available.
- Stay alert and prioritise safety while enjoying the festival.
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