April 5, 2007
By Millicent Kgowedi
CITY departments are out in force at the Rand Show, showing just some of the services Joburg offers its residents and visitors.
There was still room to move at the Expo Centre at Nasrec during the week, before the expected crowds arrived over the Easter holidays. There were plenty of school children, however, enjoying their holidays. Some, attending schools that were not yet closed, could be spotted in their uniforms.
"I pop in during my lunch break because I don't work too far from Nasrec," said visitor Marikie van Wyk. "My children will be here the whole of Saturday."
Joburg City's stall, with its Playstation consoles and games, has proved a drawcard for learners, particularly those boys who are interested in sport. Several of them spent the day taking turns at the games.
Emergency Services: Joburg's Emergency Management Services has put up a stall at the Rand Show demonstrating its work to the public
"I've been here since 10am and haven't even had lunch because the games are so exciting," said another visitor, Lunga Motha.
At its stand, the Johannesburg Fresh Produce Market has fruit and vegetables on display. Several people were intrigued by the purple figs; although they are not very popular, they are known for their cancer-fighting action. Tips on living a healthy lifestyle and information about fresh produce are available at the market's stand.
Emergency Management Services is displaying uniforms and equipment used during disasters at its stand. A small room, built from boxes, is used to educate people about domestic safety. Inside there is a mattress, a two-plate stove and some clothes, all specifically arranged in the safest way.
There is a bush scene at the City Parks stand, giving the whole Joburg stall the whiff of the wild. There is also a road, with traffic lights and an intersection between 16 June Road and Freedom Drive. A City Park's exhibitor, Israel Motswana, said lessons on road safety would be given to learners visiting the stand.
Papa Q, Joburg's safety mascot, also has a corner at the Joburg stall, where pictures of home safety measures are on the walls. The colourful pictures are aimed at persuading children to play safely near water and to use sunscreen at all times.
Pikitup's daily operations are on display; and revenue service officers are on hand to answer queries on topics ranging from rent, water and electricity to general account problems.
The week has given exhibitors – who number more than 550 – time to iron out their displays, making sure everything is well-organised for the masses expected to visit the show over the Easter long weekend. "This whole area will be packed from Thursday night right through to Monday," said one of the IEC exhibitors, John Matladi.
A jam-packed line-up is in store for weekend visitors, catering for all ages, from toddlers to grandparents. The SABC's stage is again expected to be a favourite, with top radio and television presenters and cartoon characters on hand to entertain visitors.
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