The current chairperson of the Johannesburg Skydiving Club (JSC) Jurie Cilliers and the club’s Secretary, Ina Cilliers, this week responded to last week’s article in the Herald about the Hawks investigating two criminal fraud cases against the former chairperson of the club, Eugene (Pottie) Potgieter, and its current chief instructor, Beverley Cosslett.

“Eugene Potgieter’s term as Chairman of Johannesburg Skydiving Club ended on February 15, 2025, and he is no longer involved in the current governance or management of the club. The matters referenced in the article relate to historical disputes and allegations that are not before any court at present. Following the transition in 2025, the current committee received a full operational handover.

Based on this process and the information available to the committee, no irregularities were identified within the club’s current operational and financial structures or the conduct of any individuals in historic leadership capacities.

The club’s governance structures, including the transition to a non-profit model, were implemented over time through member decisions and formal processes, as indicated in AGM minutes dated 2014.”
“JSC further acknowledges Potgieter’s long-standing involvement in the club over more than two decades, during which he contributed to the continuity of operations under challenging circumstances.
JSC operates as a member-based organisation under an elected committee and continues to function as an active aviation and tourism facility in Merafong. The club conducts regular skydiving operations, supports local employment, and contributes to the regional tourism economy. JSC complies with applicable regulatory and safety requirements (per PASA and the Civil Aviation Act) and works with experienced pilots, instructors, and support staff to ensure safe and sustainable operations. Johannesburg Skydiving Club remains open, operational, and committed to its members, customers, and the broader Merafong community. JSC remains a world-class extreme tourism experience that attracts economic opportunities to Merafong,” the Cillierses stated.