International Rigging Class 2025
DWR Distribution hosted the much-anticipated annual International Rigging Course from January 27 to February 1, 2025, presented by Ruud de Deugd, founder of T&E Support. As the only training program of its kind in the country, the course drew delegates from across South Africa, Namibia, Ghana, Zambia, and Mauritius, ranging from novices to experienced professionals.
Ruud, renowned for leading these training sessions globally, provided insights into the rigging industry. Over six days, participants covered vital topics such as safety protocols, maintenance practices, lifting materials, force calculations, and load tables. Attendees were expected to have a solid understanding of mathematics, as the training blended practical skills with technical theory. “It feels like the family is back together,” Ruud shared upon his return to South Africa. “With the new training room at DWR and the number of participants, this course has been fantastic. We had great fun, and I had to pick up the pace as there were so many questions. It’s been a truly enjoyable experience.”
Ruud de Deugd
Several attendees shared their positive feedback.
Said David Opoku from Stix Evolution in Ghana, “The course has been very informative. My partner and I come from an AV background, but we’ve built a few stages. The good thing about Ruud is that he takes you through different scenarios and case studies. It’s helped us and gave us a different perspective. In terms of mapping out points, we’re now able to do it ourselves and we value that safety is paramount with him.”
Coffee and catch up
Johann Moolman, Head of the Rigging and Structures Department at rental company MGG, has worked in the live events industry for the past 19 years. “I came to this course as a refresher, and Ruud is a great instructor—very informative. Although I have a lot of experience, especially with maths and calculations, these days we rely heavily on Vectorworks and Braceworks. It’s valuable to understand the in-depth concepts behind those programs, especially when it comes to making bridles, rigging, and standing structures work. There’s always something new to learn, and as the industry is constantly evolving, we discover new ways of doing things which I find invaluable.”
dB Audio Namibia has been sending teams to this international training for the past 15 years, establishing itself as one of the leading technical companies in Namibia for events ranging from conferences to large outdoor shows. This year, three delegates—Rivaldo Mbekele, David Beukes and Titus Augustinus attended. They are all grateful to work with a company where Char-Ann Husselmann and her leadership team emphasize the growth and development of technicians. Their commitment to safety standards ensures that employees are well-equipped to apply their newly acquired knowledge in the workplace. Additionally, the delegates look forward to sharing their insights with their team.
Brains Matlala, a sound engineer at Multi-Media, an Event Design and Production Company, often handles heavy equipment. He shares that during the course, he learned several techniques that will improve his efficiency when setting up.
Muzzammil Abrahamse from AV Network says, “We focus on the corporate sector, and I handle various tasks. For rigging jobs, which we frequently have, we hire freelancers, and I assist with ground rigging. There’s still a lot I’m learning about rigging, and while I can’t master it all in one week, I’ll continue building my knowledge over time.”
Muzzammil Abrahamse from AV Network with DWR’s Amanda Miranda
Stefan van Biljon, owner of Creative Kilowatts, comments, “I came specifically because Health and Safety is becoming a major concern. Coming from Bloemfontein in central South Africa, there are some who do not follow regulations, and gaining this knowledge will help my company provide safer events.
The International Rigging Course is always a highlight on DWR’s training calendar. “On behalf of the DWR Distribution team, a huge thank you to everyone who joined us,” said Robert Izzett. “Our goal is always to make the industry safer, and this course plays a big part in that. We all greatly appreciate Ruud for travelling all this way and hopefully we’ll see you again next year! Thanks also to our Amanda Miranda and Jaques Pretorius for all your assistance behind the scenes.”
About Ruud de Deugd
With two decades of experience in the field, Ruud has consistently maintained high standards of safety within the event and theatre production sectors. A qualified mechanical engineer, he previously worked with Prolyte before founding T & E Support in 2009. His company specialises in delivering comprehensive safety solutions for large-scale events, offering services that include structural calculations, inspections, rigging advice, and temporary demountable construction guidance. Ruud is also recognized for his global rigging training initiatives. Today, T & E Support stands as a leader in the industry and is a member of the European Committee for Standardization (CEN/TC 152 WG3), actively participating in the establishment of industry standards for event structures within the European Union.
