Latest news with #DeonViljoen
The Citizen
01-08-2025
- Business
- The Citizen
#BestofBallito: DOCRRA wins top civic honour
DOCCRA's tireless advocacy has earned it the community's vote of confidence, reflecting growing public support for civic accountability. The Dolphin Coast Residents and Ratepayers Association (DOCRRA) was voted Best Business Networking Organisation in The North Coast Courier Best of Ballito Readers' Choice Awards. The recognition caps a year of significant achievements for this voluntary civic group. DOCRRA was instrumental in triggering two government oversight inquiries into the governance challenges facing KwaDukuza Municipality, by CoGTA and NERSA. Its sustained lobbying and public engagement also contributed to leadership changes at the highest level. 'This award means so much because we were nominated and chosen by the people we serve. It's the best endorsement we could hope for,' said chairman Deon Viljoen. DOCRRA has over 6 000 members and represents major estates across the Dolphin Coast. It also forms part of the broader KwaDukuza Organised Residents Alliance (KORA), which advocates for over 40 000 households across the region. Twelve volunteer sub-committees cover key areas of concern, from municipal finance and infrastructure upgrades to environmental protection, electrical network repairs and safety initiatives on beaches and streets. Empowerment programmes in underserved communities are also part of their mandate. 'The rolling crises in our municipality have driven a sharp increase in support and membership,' said Viljoen. 'Residents now realise that preserving and improving our community requires their active participation.' He said organisations like DOCRRA and KORA are vital for maintaining clean, competent administration at all levels. 'This award is not just a tribute to DOCRRA, it reflects a reviving culture of service and civic responsibility. We are proud to be part of building a better Dolphin Coast for everyone.' Stay in the loop with The North Coast Courier on Facebook, X, Instagram & YouTube for the latest news. Mobile users can join our WhatsApp Broadcast Service here, or if you're on desktop, scan the QR code below.
The Citizen
26-06-2025
- Business
- The Citizen
Big Docrra AGM turnout points to growing civic momentum
More than 200 residents rallied at the Salt Rock Country Club last week seeking a stronger voice in local governance. The event, hosted by the Dolphin Coast Residents and Ratepayers Association (Docrra), underscored growing civic momentum on the North Coast, with residents increasingly engaged in shaping the future of their communities. Docrra chairman Deon Viljoen reported an 85% increase in revenue, with about R500 000 in reserves, although expenses had also risen by 50%. The re-election of all committee members was uncontested. He highlighted growing membership, increasing public engagement and Docrra's continued efforts to address municipal governance, infrastructure and financial accountability. The organisation grew from 23 to 34 estate members in the past year, and with individual homeowners included, now represents nearly 7 000 members. Viljoen was critical of KwaDukuza mayor Ali Ngidi, accusing him of disrespecting residents and undermining the rule of law. He suggested leadership changes at KwaDukuza municipality (KDM) could be coming, citing a R35.7-million fraud and embezzlement case currently under investigation by the Saps Hawks, opened in January. 'We know a leadership change is imminent at KDM. We don't have to wait until 2026, something is going to happen before then,' said Viljoen. He said Docrra's approach was to apply pressure on the municipality, but with the aim of co-governance is a way to engage constructively,' he said. Viljoen also noted that R2-billion of KDM's R3-billion budget comes from Docrra-aligned estates and organisations. 'When the penny drops with the municipality oversight organisations, they give us the time and listen to us,' he said. COO Mary Kassam hosted a panel discussion featuring Viljoen and subcommittee chairs Brian Pottinger (environment) and Flip Helberg (electricity), who addressed environmental concerns and the National Energy Regulator's audit of KDM. The evening's keynote address was delivered by KwaDukuza Residents Forum chairman Warwick Chapman, who urged residents to vote strategically in upcoming elections, especially in Ballito's Ward 6 and 30. 'Real change is within our grasp,' Chapman said. 'Changing voting patterns is not simple, but it's essential. It's okay to change your vote to get the right kind of government.' Stay in the loop with The North Coast Courier on Facebook, X, Instagram & YouTube for the latest news. Mobile users can join our WhatsApp Broadcast Service here or if you're on desktop, scan the QR code below. At Caxton, we employ humans to generate daily fresh news, not AI intervention. Happy reading!
