The Ballito Neighbourhood Watch’s annual Potjie Competition is set to return for its sixth year, promising a fun-filled day for the whole family while raising funds to support community safety initiatives.

This year’s event will feature 67 companies competing for the coveted Best Potjie, Best Gees and Best Dressed Stand trophies.

Visitors can look forward to a variety of family-friendly activities. Children under 12 enjoy free entry and will have access to attractions including zorb balls, inflatable play equipment, cupcake decorating, face painting and an opportunity to meet reptiles from Ndlondlo Reptile Park.

Adults can enjoy live music, a selection of food stalls and refreshments, including craft beverages from the Ambrewlance. The popular chilli-eating competition will also return, while an auction featuring a range of prizes and experiences is expected to be one of the day’s highlights.

Entry costs R50 per person and includes admission to the event, a bowl and cutlery, as well as a serving of rice to accompany a tasting portion from one potjie of the visitor’s choice. Tickets will be available at the main entrance to Townsend Park on the day.

Funds raised will help the Ballito Neighbourhood Watch continue its crime prevention work, including maintaining and upgrading its automatic number plate recognition (ANPR) camera network, covering licensing and maintenance costs, expanding the rollout of overview cameras, and painting house numbers on roads to assist emergency services in locating properties more quickly.

Organisers say the annual event has grown steadily over the past six years and continues to bring together businesses, residents and families in support of a safer community.

Residents are encouraged to bring their family and friends along for a day of food, entertainment and community spirit while supporting the work of the neighbourhood watch.