Published every Wednesday by CXpress 2006 (Pty) Ltd - PO Box 1449, Plettenberg Bay 6600 - 6 Park Lane, Plettenberg Bay - Tel: 044 533 1004 - Fax: 044 533 0852 Email: editor@cxpress.co.za / advertising@cxpress.co.za Web page: www.cxpress.co.za Printed by Group Editors
FREE Photo: Vinthi Neufeld
10 October 2018
Life’s a drag… NOT!
These lovely ‘ladies’ - from left are Jaguars rugby stars Bradley Smith, Meano Solomons, Pervuhs Peterson, and Ettiene Luiters - donned frocks to collect cash for The Crags Drill Squad last Friday, with Meano being declared Miss Drag Queen 2018. Find out more on p9.
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CXPRESS
NEWS & VIEWS
10 October 2018
The Top 10 entrants in line for a night at Sky Villa INALISTS in the WinwithSky Differently-abled Awareness Campaign competition have now been selected, after entering by sharing their sentiments on the question: “What does being differentlyabled mean to you?” The winner will be announced at a lucky draw during a cocktail hour on October 18 at Sky Villa. The grand-prize winner and partner will have the pleasure of enjoying dinner, bed, and breakfast at the magnificent boutique hotel with its breath-taking views and excellent cuisine. Says campaign initiator Rita Hardaker: “We wish to express our extreme gratitude to both Sky Villa and The Bungalow which also ran a competition to draw attention to our cause - for their exceptional collective efforts in promoting the Differently-abled Awareness Campaign over the last few months.” The 10 finalists are Ashleigh Butterworth, Chene Schoeman, Inge Bassett, Karin Gilbertson, Rentia van der Walt, Sue Lloyd, Julie Deferville, Lizelle Olivier, Maurene Claasen-bock, and Esrine Zander. Below are the stories that resulted in them being selected as finalists. Contact Rita on 082 560 2606 or at ritav@global. co.za for further information or details on the Campaign.
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Ashleigh Butterworth Instead of further highlighting our differences in society, I’ve compiled ‘The how-to-guide to being more human’. Each of these steps will help you better understand the term ‘differently-abled’ and hopefully create a sense of community and inclusion: • Don’t take for granted everyday things that often seem menial to you. • Do treat ALL people with
kindness, no matter their circumstance. • Don’t think about your differences but rather what you have in common with others. • Do listen - lend your ear to someone in need. • Don’t be prejudiced, but rather live life with eyes wide open. • Do teach your children from a young age to treat everyone as equals. • Let those who are differently-abled express how they feel. • Always be compassionate. Now it’s your turn to add to the list and take further steps to make people who may seem different to you feel equal. Chene Schoeman I love the idea of reclaiming the word ‘disabled’ and changing it to ‘differently-abled’, because it speaks loudly to the way many view those with disabilities, who are not necessarily “unable” to do things. The problem lies in how the world is designed around them, resulting in disabled individuals not having the chance to experience their daily lives with much convenience. The Differently-abled Campaign is necessary to accommodate those who don’t have the luxury of experiencing the privileges of a world built to cater for the average individual. It is also a personal cause for me as my late grandfather suffered muscle dystrophy, so I was able to experience firsthand the struggles faced when, for example, getting into a restaurant or hotel. The campaign has thus reawakened awareness not only for me, but for many others. I understand the term ‘differently-abled’ as making a statement that everybody deserves to enjoy life and its facilities without having to struggle just to get there.
Inge Bassett Being differently-abled means to be able in a different way to the majority of people you are quite able to do most things that others can, but unable to do some things due to a physical disability that you were either born with or have acquired due to an accident. You or I at any moment can become differently-abled. Karin Gilbertson Turn to page 11 of the August 15 edition at www.cxpress.co.za for Karin’s story. Rentia van der Walt After an emergency neck-operation, followed by a back and neck op, I was unable to walk without a crutch. At that stage, I was a passionate teacher with many opportunities and a zest for life. I was promoted to deputy principal but on doctor’s orders, I had to resign. We retired to Plett and I decided that as a differently-abled person, I would do anything possible to improve my quality of life. Abraham Lincoln said: “In the end, it’s not the years in your life that count. It’s the life in your years.” I was determined to put life in my years… I started by attending aqua aerobics classes. I felt very good after a class and enjoyed socialising with wonderful people. I also bought a tricycle and am now able to cycle with my husband to Solar and Sanctuary beaches. To keep my brain active, I assist other teachers by writing CVs, preparing them for job interviews, or helping with any other aspect of education. I appreciate every new day and am privileged to stay in this lovely town. God gave me a second chance and I am positive to live life to the full-
est. Being differently-abled is not the end of the road; it can be the beginning of a positive, and fulfilling life. Sue Lloyd To be differently-abled implies to me that a person has talents - possibly not seen by so-called ‘abled’ people - quite often far exceeding the abilities of others who might be more fortunate, but not able to appreciate their abilities. It’s good to be able to appreciate people for what and who they are, not what they appear to be. Julie Deferville To me, being differently-abled means facing each and every day of my life with a smile that shields the huge effort of coping in the able-bodied world around me. Lizelle Olivier Differently-abled to me means viewing the disabled as able in their own special way, and realising that they are capable of handling their surroundings. As able individuals we need to ensure that these surroundings are safe and accessible to them. Maurene Claasen-bock Your disability does not make you different; you may be handicapped, but that does not define the person behind the disability as someone without feelings, emotions, and the guts to enjoy life and strive living it to the fullest. Esrine Zander The Campaign is an amazing initiative that we are proud to be associated with. Most importantly for me is that it teaches the children in our community to interact comfortably and spontaneously assist those who are disabled.
NEWS & VIEWS
10 October 2018
CXPRESS
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R10,000 reward offered after landmark security breach leaves The Hill victims traumatised Plett has seen a spike in burglaries over the past month and residents have been urged to be more vigilant - YOLANDÉ STANDER reports HE most recent incident of violent crime in Plett occurred at The Hill estate, where an elderly couple was overpowered and robbed. Plettenberg Bay Crime Prevention Association (PBCPA) operations head Otto Olivier said four suspects armed with crowbars, machetes, and screwdrivers gained access to a house on the estate last Tuesday night just after 8pm. “The suspects entered the estate by digging under the electrical wire on the boundary fence. They gained entry and quickly overpowered two elderly people in their home. The suspects got away with several pieces of jewellery and computer tablets,” Olivier said. He said the traumatised couple received treatment and counselling on scene and added that a R10,000 reward was being offered for information that would lead to the successful ap-
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prehension and prosecution of these suspects. Olivier mentioned that the estate had experienced no incidents in recent times. “We will endeavour to step up the security manpower to ensure more perimeter and site patrolling, including gate control both during the day and at night,” he said. Following a meeting last week with various crimefighting role-players including the PBCPA - comprising among others local police, security companies and neighbourhood watch groups - it has come to light that most incidents happened in Sector 2, which includes New Horizons, Qolweni and Bossiesgif, followed by Sector 1, which includes the Plett town area. PBCPA chairman Bruce Richardson said the incidents went against historical trends that saw most burglaries taking place in Sector 1. “This sector offers the most
attractive opportunities, so the general change means the PBCPA and neighbourhood watches are making life too difficult for criminal elements entering the town area,” Richardson said. He added that the affected streets include Cutty Sark, High Street, Wilder Street, Pladda Drive, Church Street, and Hill Street. “So there is no emphasis on any particular part of the town. Most incidents take place on Fridays and Sundays and between the hours of 6pm and 9pm,” he added. He further explained that times reflected were when incidents were reported. “In actual fact, most criminal activity is taking place during the day, but only discovered when the victims arrive home after work.” Richardson said many residents fail to set their alarms during the day and that was why criminals find daytime crime the most lucrative.
Pink buoy instrumental in Wilderness rescue RESCUE BOYS: Jaden and Henrico Delport, from Centurion, on Wilderness Beach
SRI Wilderness deputy station commander Mike Vonk said when his duty crew were activated following reports of a drowning on the beach nearby, they learnt that the casualty was already safely ashore thanks to the efforts of a father and son from Tshwane. Jaden Delport, 16, and dad Henrico, 51, from Centurion, were at the beach on Friday afternoon when
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Jaden noticed someone being swept out to sea by a rip current. Jaden immediately rushed into the surf and swam towards the teenage girl in trouble. Henrico, anxious for the safety of both his son and the girl, grabbed the NSRI Pink Rescue Buoy positioned at the entrance to the beach and ran into the water. By that stage Jaden had reached the casualty, who
had been pulled out some distance halfway towards the backline. Jaden found the girl to be exhausted from fighting against the current and struggling to stay afloat. He tried pulling her back towards the shore but the rip current was too strong and he couldn’t swim against it. He then tried to push her towards the beach in the breaking surf. Henrico arrived and passed her the Pink Rescue Buoy and holding onto the strap, helped to pull her toward the shore. They reached a sand bank from where the surf pushed them onto the beach. The girl was exhausted and reunited with her family, who whisked her away from the beach. No details of her are known, but Vonk says the NSRI is aware of 13 lives saved directly from its Pink Rescue Buoy campaign.
“Crimes after 9pm generally occur before residents set their alarms for the night. The most popular method of entry by far is by forcing a door open. This is followed by unsecured doors and windows - easy entry with no force required. “Windows are broken in only a minority of cases, because the sound of breaking glass is inclined to
attract attention.” Richardson, therefore, urged residents to always set their alarms, even when going out for a short while. “When at home always lock doors and windows in the parts of the house which you are not using. If you have perimeter alarms, set the system as soon as you are inside the house in the evening. Fit a proper lock, such
as a drop bolt, on outside doors or a supplementary steel gate. A simple mortise lock is very easy to force. “Don’t assume that crime only takes place after dark. We need to be vigilant and pay proper attention to our security at all times.” Richardson also reminded residents to have their alarm systems checked to ensure it is working properly.
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CXPRESS
NEWS & VIEWS
10 October 2018
AfriForum plants 3,000 trees to conclude 2018 planting project in Knysna FRIFORUM planted more than 3,000 trees during its treeplanting project in Knysna last month. According to Chris Boshoff, AfriForum’s Coordinator for Environmental Affairs, this project is part of a larger attempt to help ensure a healthy, sustainable future for posterity. Although people from all over South Africa celebrate Arbour Day on September 1, AfriForum and thousands of volunteers dedicated the entire month to the planting of trees. “By planting indigenous trees, we are not only protecting our environment, but also showing that we have hope for the future. To help South Africans flourish, we must all do our part and keep on building - to the
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JOINT EFFORT: Members of AfriForum, Go Green Knysna, and the Brenton Taxpayers Association planted fynbos in the Brenton area
benefit of everyone in the country,” Boshoff says. AfriForum annually focuses on general as well as rare tree species. The general tree for 2018 is the true yellowwood (Podocarpus latifolius), while the rare tree is the shepherd’s bush (Boscia albitrunca). AfriForum encourages
TREE TRIO: Planting trees at Pledge Nature Reserve are, from left, Boy Sebelo, Mervyn Crous, and Chris Boshoff
members to plant any indigenous trees that will thrive in their areas. As part of the Knysna project conclusion, AfriForum and the Go Green Knysna group planted 50 trees in Pledge Nature Reserve on September 27. AfriForum already donated a 2,500-litre water
tank to the reserve because they used to store rainwater for irrigation purposes. However, this infrastructure was destroyed in the 2017 fires. AfriForum, Go Green Knysna, and the Brenton Taxpayers Association jointly manage the removal of exotic trees in the area. “We did not only plant indigenous trees, but also more than 800 fynbos plants in the Brenton area to rehabilitate the endemic fynbos species and protect the Brenton blue butterfly. This endangered butterfly lives in a symbiotic relationship with a specific fynbos species, Indigofera erecta,” Boshoff explains. AfriForum thanks Wildflower Wholesale and Norga River nurseries for their participation.
PLEDGE TO EARTH: Boy Sebelo and Chris Boshoff plant a tree in Pledge Nature Reserve in Knysna
The BioWise Flapping Flamingos pop it up to promote earth-savvy living HE WasteNothing Knysna programme is hosting a Pop-up shop at Knysna Mall until October 15, featuring products that promote a waste-wise, water-wise, space-wise, and energy-wise lifestyle. Sue Swain from BioWise says they want to prove just how easy it is to make choices that promote living in a more earth-savvy way. “People often find the principle intimidating, but once they’ve changed their mind-set, they are amazed at how making small changes can make a huge difference,” Sue explains, adding that the shop is located where Mugg & Bean used to be at Knysna Mall. “Products and services, within the theme, are available from a variety of local and regional businesses. Some of the upcycling initiatives we facilitated will run from the shop, producing items on site. “We are hosting a bottlebrickathon to create
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OTTOMAN MARATHON: Sue Swain from BioWise, left, and Flapping Flamingo Michelle Lemcoe display the bottle-brick ottomans they are making for public libraries in the Knysna area - take note of the bottlebrickathon at the Pop-up Shop in Knysna Mall from October 9-15, when the team will attempt making 600 bottle bricks in one week, enough for three ottomans per library
bottle bricks for ottomans for public libraries in the Knysna area, while daily workshops and talks are scheduled on a variety of topics,” says Swain. “This shop is about celebrating the Flapping Flamingos of our area with the hope that they will, true to the original Flapping Flamingos [turn to page 12 of the October 3 edition at www.cxpress. co.za to find out more], ‘wake up the flock’ and get a movement going that will make everyone do things differently - a movement that takes its cue from nature and doesn’t waste any of our natural resources while turning all waste into a resource.” Swain thanks the National Lotteries Commission for its funding, “which has made all of this possible”. Call Bernice on 071 100 1208 for details about the shop and workshops, and see the advert on page 5 for more information.
NEWS & VIEWS
10 October 2018
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CXPRESS
Spoor me the trouble: Dr Helm woos Wilderness audience with his BOB HOPKIN met an ex-pat South African who returned to help passion for palaeontology Correspondent unlock ancient secrets of the Southern Cape
AT THE COALFACE: Dr Charles Helm at his practice in Canada
HILE we enjoy the forests, the marine life and the birds of the Garden Route, locals know not to expect to encounter any of the ‘Big Five’ animals - with the possible exception of an elephant or two in the Knysna forests. However a medical doctor, hailing from Great Brak River but now resident in Canada, has evidence to prove that the Southern Cape once had an incredible abundance of large wildlife, as well as early man. Charles Helm, from the African Centre for Coastal Palaeoscience, gave a riveting talk to members of the Wilderness RRA (Ratepayers and Residents Association) last week, with evidence of the ancient wildlife that left tangible traces of their existence thanks to spoor impressions in rock formations that have been overlooked for centuries. Helm is now mostly resident in a declining coal
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mining town in the Canadian Rockies called Tumbler Ridge where, by chance, the mining activities exposed dinosaur tracks and bones. Although having little interest in archaeology up to that point, he became so absorbed by this find that, along with other volunteers, he helped develop the site to become such a major drawcard for both palaeontologists and the public that it was declared as Unesco Global Geopark in 2014. Having this newfound motivation, and returning to his native South Africa periodically, Helm and his wife and sons chose to start exploring the coastal rock formations of the Southern Cape. “By this time we had developed what we choose to call ‘The Eye’ for spotting unusual features in rocks and realised that all rocks tell a story not only of their own formation but, when they are in a semi-fluid state, of the living beings that pass
over them,” he said. They also discovered that the mostly soft rocks along the coast, which show these impressions, erode easily as, within a short time, high spring tides destroy the evidence. This adds urgency to plotting locations, tacking impressions, and photographing the finds. He said most of the tracks found date from the late Pleistocene era - about 90,000 to 130,000 years ago - and show the presence of elephant, a multitude of buck, giraffe, rhino, and turtles, as well as extinct species such as Longhorn buffalo and giant horses. “Compared to the sites in Canada, the frequency and diversity of our finds along this coast from Still Bay to Plettenberg Bay is extraordinary. It truly is the Motherlode,” he enthused. Helm has been in touch with Western Cape premier Helen Zille, who has been stirred by his findings. Planning to soon visit some of the more exciting sites, Zille is studying the possibility of establishing a Southern Cape Heritage Route that would showcase many of the most spectacular finds. • Dr Helm is no stranger to regular readers, who will remember him gracing our cover page on March 14 this year. Turn to page 4 of that edition at www. cxpress.co.za and read ‘40 Steps closer to tracking our hominin ancestors’ for more news on his discoveries in our ‘hood.
ALONG CAME A SWIMMER: Ancient turtle tracks heading to the sea - Photos: Charles Helm
BEFORE THEIR HORNS WERE HUNTED: A rhino passed this way 90,000 years ago
POP-UP SHOP BioWise presents: A pop-up shop promoting and encouraging Earth-Savvy Living.
Shop 30, Knysna Mall 9 - 15 October 2018
: s r e k c lo r o E M M A R PROG TUE
WED
10:00 - 12:00 Workshop: Make a bag out of an unused T-shirt. [no sewing!] Out of the Closet
10:00 - 12:00 Demo: Waste = Art Janet Botes
9th
10th
10:30 - 12:30
PRIZE GIVING 15:00 - 16:00 Intro to Biomimicry Sue Swain 15:00 - 18:00 Demo: Waste = Art Janet Botes
For any queries, contact Bernice on 071 100 1208
THU
FRI
SAT
10:00 - 10:45 Talk: Our relationship with waste EcoAtlas
10:00 - 11:30 Talk: The ‘value’ of Waste: It’s not waste until it’s wasted! Lizelle from Your Green Box
10:00 - 12:00
11th
11:00 - 12:30 Workshop: Upcycle your has-beens Out of the Closet 15:00 - 16:30 Talk: Intro: Vision for Knysna Sue Swain
12th
11:30 - 12:30 Talk: What about Bokashi? Cigarette-butt Display & Research
13th
Mob Dance: Pro Academy Talk: Why Permaculture? Philippa from Sacred Earth Demo: Sun Cooker Crosby from SunFire Solutions
made possible by:
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CXPRESS
NEWS & VIEWS
10 October 2018
Sit back on Saturday for Knysna Rotary’s Festival of School Choirs X Country residents are in for a treat on Saturday when, for the first time ever, we’ll have the opportunity to hear the well-trained choirs of several local schools in full voice together. Music and singing is the one subject that can be a bridge to all children, whatever their backgrounds. From the song Rhythm of Life (to be performed by one of the participating choirs), the event hopes to
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capture “rhythm on the inside, rhythm on the street” - which has not been collectively harnessed in a Knysna schools show before. Organised by Knysna Rotarians, the festival will bring together the choirs of nine schools, including two chamber choirs, which are sure to surprise many residents with their talent and professionalism. The event takes place at Concordia High on October
13 at 10am and to reserve your seat, tickets will be available at Rawsons Estate Agency, 4 Grey St, at R50. Concordia High is very easy to find by car but for those unfamiliar with the area, there are simple directions on the back of the tickets. Locals will also be able to purchase unreserved tickets at the door on the day of performance. See the advert below for additional information.
Latecomers have last chance to register for second-chance matrics classes OR the past few years, some Grade 12 learners were offered the opportunity to extend their matric examination over more than one year - a programme known as More Examination Opportunities (MEO or Second Chance Matric). MEO candidates who registered for certain subjects in the National Senior Certificate (NSC) examination in October or November are now making use of additional tutoring at Knysna Secondary and George Secondary to prepare them for
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their exams. Subjects that featured this week so far are Economics, Geography, Mathematical Literacy, Mathematics and Physical Sciences, but there is still a chance to sign up for lessons in Life Sciences, Afrikaans, and Business Studies. This opportunity is also available to candidates who were not enrolled at a school this year, and need one or more subjects to obtain their NSC. A full programme with dates and times of classes for the remainder of this
week is available at the above-mentioned schools; alternatively, details can be found at https://wcedonline. westerncape.gov.za/docu ments/SeniorCertificate/ SeniorCertificate-index. html, as well as links to electronic resources. There are five three-hour classes per subject, in weekday time slots from 4-7pm and from 9am to 12 noon on Saturdays. Email bennie.bothma@ westerncape.gov.za or call 023 415 2070 for additional information.
Redes waarom Wittedrift Hoër die skool is om teen Graad 12 vir jou kind Marita Gerber, Graad 12 WHS leerlinge sterker as ooit die skool te S Hoërskool Wittedrift die skool om jou kind heen te stuur? Is dit regtig die ‘klein skool met ‘n groot hart’? Kom ek vertel my storie, dan kan julle hierdie vrae self beantwoord. In 2012 kon ek as gevolg van slegte omstandighede nie Graad 6 slaag nie - kom ek sê eerder, ek kon in die eerste plek nooit skooltoe gaan nie. Ek het ‘n toets geskryf om aanvaar te word vir Graad 7 in 2013 en het net-net geslaag. In 2014 is ek Hoërskool Wittedrift toe gestuur. Ek was ‘n beskadigde mensie. Ek was beïnvloed deur enige iemand en het amper enige iets gedoen om nie my emosies te voel nie. Alhoewel ek baie skoor gesoek het by die skool, het die onderwysers van Hoërskool Wittedrift steeds in my geglo. Ek weet wat jul dink: hoe kan iemand so beskadig
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en so verlore weer op die regte pad gestuur word? Die klein skool het my lewe verander. Ek was gemotiveer om beter en beter te presteer in my sport, omdat ek (minwetend) fisies van my emosies ontslae geraak het. Ek het nie meer die punt gesien om weg te kruip van die lewe nie, want ek was nie meer bang nie. Die onderwysers het my aanhou motiveer en soveel in my geglo dat ek self my waardes begin besef het. Ek weet dit klink dom, maar dit het my lewe verander. Ek is akademies gemotiveer - waar ek begin het met ‘n 40% tot 50% gemiddeld, het ek myself opgebou en vir die eerste keer, in my moeilikste jaar, Graad 12, top 10 behaal. WHS onderwysers het ‘n persoonlike verhouding met hul studente, en maak dit hul prioriteit vir
verlaat. Hulle gaan uit hul pad uit om jou te help. Ek sit hier aan die einde van my Graad 12 jaar met trane in my oë as ek terugdink aan hoe baie die skool vir my gedoen het, minwetend dat ek ‘n beter lewe en toekoms sou hê toe ek in 2014 by die skool inloop. Ek kan met trots sê dat my boetie volgende jaar Graad 8 en my klein sussie Graad 1 by Wittedrift gaan doen. Ek het geen stres nie, want ek weet hulle is in goeie hande. So as jy my vra: “Is Hoërskool Wittedrift die skool vir my kind?” Weet net een ding: dis die klein skool met die grootste hart wat jy jou ooit sal kan indink. • Marita dien vanjaar as onderhoofmeisie van WHS. Die skryf van haar storie is een van vele uitdagings wat leerlinge moet aanpak om te kwalifiseer vir die WHS Visarend Toekennings.
NEWS & VIEWS
10 October 2018
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CXPRESS
There’s hope for us, but it’s still essential to have an excellent Plan B Read CXPRESS online at www.cxpress.co.za
LET’S GET REAL: Dr Frans Cronje is a scenario planner and CEO of the Institute of Race Relations, who says that South Africans must be realistic about their prospects catch him and colleague Sihle Ngobese at one of three Garden Route venues next week
F you lie awake fretting about your future in South Africa, the good news is that there’s hope for you. Many South Africans worry about issues affecting their future wellbeing, including: • Will there still be good schools and universities? • What will happen in the next election? • Will the government seize land and other property without compensation? • Will your pension and investments be safe? • What does the future hold for your children and grandchildren? • Will the country remain stable? Dr Frans Cronje and Sihle Ngobese are coming to the Garden Route to answers these questions and more. Dr Cronje is a scenario planner and CEO of the South African Institute of Race Relations (IRR), and Mr Ngobese is Head of Strategic Operations at the IRR. The IRR is the oldest and most respected think-tank in Africa. It was established in 1929 and rose to become the most prominent anti-apartheid think-tank in the world. Today, it lobbies for South Africa’s success as a free and open society and specifically for property rights, a market economy, and the rule of law. Cronje says that South Africans must be realistic about their prospects and accept that the country is now in great economic and political trouble. Ramaphoria has not materialised as many people had hoped and there is a real risk of further economic and
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political decline. “Although people should not shy away from this reality, it is important to understand what is happening and why, in order to develop effective strategies to secure a long-term future for them and their families in our country,” Cronje explains. It is important, he says, to develop a highly effective Plan B in the event that South Africa’s economic slide continues. However, both Cronje and Ngobese are adamant that South Africa can be saved. “The country has extraordinary potential, but people must not think they can wait for the politicians to get their act together,” Ngobese says. It is critical, he adds, that communities begin to organise themselves to take back control of their schools, police stations, streets, and lives in general. Ngobese and Cronje will be presenting three free seminars in Plettenberg Bay, George, and Mossel Bay at 6pm on the nights of October 16, 17, and 18 respectively. The Plett event will take place at the Verandah at Goose Valley Golf Club, the George event at the King George Protea Hotel, and the Mossel Bay event at Bravo Lounge. Allow these IRR experts to brief you on what is happening in South Africa and why, and to answer your questions on what you can do to secure your future. As space is limited, readers are urged to RSVP to Haley Jimmie at info@sairr.org.za or call Marius Roodt on 063 694 2611. See the advert on this page for more information.
Peter Benn
Motors
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32823 ON THE VERGE OF CATASTROPHE? The Institute of Race Relations (IRR) is coming to your community. Come and listen to its CEO, Dr Frans Cronje, and his colleague, Sihle Ngobese explain what you can expect over the next decade and how to survive it Will South Africa remain stable? Will your children have a future in this country? Will Cyril Ramaphosa remain president of South Africa? Will there be decent universities? Will land and other assets be expropriated and nationalised? What you can do to help build a stable, prosperous South Africa
THREE EVENTS. THREE VENUES The Verandah, Goose Valley, Plettenberg Bay, 16 October 2018, 6 PM RSVP to Susi Eusman at ceo@sairr.org.za King George Protea Hotel, George, 17 October 2018, 6 PM RSVP to Haley Jimmie at info@sairr.org.za Bravo Lounge, Mossel Bay, 18 October 2018, 6 PM RSVP to Joy Cook at joy@whalephin.co.za Attendance is free, but please RSVP For more information contact Marius Roodt at 0636942611
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2013 AUDI A4 1.8T SE + SUNROOF
R 169 990.00
2011 MAZDA BT-50 DRIFTER 2.5TDI SLE D/C + LEATHER
R 169 990.00
2013 FORD FOCUS 1.6TVCI TREND + LEATHER SEATS
R 139 990.00
2005 ISUZU KB300D LX D/C + CANOPY & LEATHER
R 139 990.00
2012 AUDI A4 1.8TFSI S MULTITRONIC (120 000KM)
R 184 990.00
2000 MITSHUBISHI COLT 2400I HIGHLINE S/C
R 59 990.00
2016 VW Polo Vivo GP 1.6 GTS
2015 VW Polo GP 1.4Tdi Cross
R174 990
R209 990
2016 VW Caddy4 1.6 - 7 seater
2016 VW Move Up 5door sunroof
R219 990
R144 990
2015 VW Polo GP 1.2 TSI Comfort 38 000km
2017 VW Golf 7 Gti 2.0 DSG
R409 990
Quality Assured Pre-Owned Vehicles!
R174 990 www.peterbennmotors.co.za
R 349 990.00
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CXPRESS
INTERVAL
10 October 2018
Children say the darndest things… • A little girl asked her mother: “Can I go outside and play with the boys?” Her mother replied: “No, you can’t play with the boys, they’re too rough.” The little girl thought about it for a few moments then asked: “If I can find a smooth one, can I play with him?” • A mother went to see a mortgage advisor with her seven-year-old son. As she sat at the desk, her son sat down and said to the advisor: “Hello, I am not her husband.” • Jenny’s mom sat down with her three-year-old daughter who was playing at her dollhouse. She asked her which doll she could be, and Jenny replied: “The one that does the dishes.” • A father’s three-yearold son saw Nick Jonas singing on TV, and said: “He doesn’t have any friends, does he?” • A mother told her children that they may no longer say “shut up” because it sounds mean and can hurt people’s feelings. So, her kids started getting creative with their use of words. Her nine-year-old daughter was talking and talking, and when her sixyear-old son couldn’t take it anymore, he shouted: “Silence, you peasant!” • A four-year-old boy was asked to give thanks before a big dinner. The family members bowed their heads in expectation. The boy began his prayer, thanking God for all his friends, naming them one by one. Then he thanked God for his mommy, his daddy, his brother, his sister, his grandma, his grandpa, and all his aunts and uncles. Then he began to thank God for the food. He gave thanks for the chicken, the dressing, the
fruit salad, the cranberry sauce, the pies, the cakes, even the pouring cream. Then the boy paused, and everyone waited… and waited. After a long silence, the young fellow looked up at his mother and asked: “If I thank God for the broccoli, won’t he know I’m lying? • Lucas asked his dad: “What is childish?” Dad: “It’s when an adult acts like a child.” Lucas: “So am I adultish, because I’m a child who acts like an adult?” • Mom: “That’s quite a bruise! Did you bump your knee?” Cassidy: “Yes, I’m still learning how to work these legs.” • Bennet, age five: “If we just sprayed the sun with sunscreen wouldn’t that protect everyone in the world? Then nobody would ever have to wear sunscreen!” • Jaiden, age six: “I need an assistant.” • Jon asked his three kids what they wanted to do when they grew up. Jason, 10, said: “I want to be a teacher.” Mitzi, eight, said: “I want to be a writer.” Six-year-old Nick said: “I want to run the machine that cuts the heads off the chickens.” All-righty then… • When he was six years old, David asked: “Dad, can we get a cat.” Dad: “Your mom is allergic to cats, so no.” David: “When Mom dies, can we get a cat?” Dad: “Sure.” • A man killed a deer and took it home to cook for dinner. Both he and his wife decided that they wouldn’t tell the kids what kind of meat it was, but would give them a clue and let them guess.
We were going to publish a time-travelling joke... but you guys didn’t like it.
The dad said: “Well it’s what Mommy calls me sometimes.” The little girl screamed to her brother: “Don’t eat it. It’s an a$*hole!” • Mom: “You didn’t even notice my hair!” Her eight-year-old son replied: “I’m not married to you… not my job!” • Daughter: “How was your day, Daddy?” Dad: “Pretty busy, lots of meetings and deadlines.” Daughter: “Dead lions?!” • During a doctor’s visit, the urologist asked Mary’s three-year-old son to pull his pants and underwear down. When she went to examine him, he looked at her and said: “Awkward.” • Sandra’s twin sons came running to her in a panic,
and one screamed: “Ma! I cannot see my eyes!” • Almost halfway through a spaghetti dinner a three-year-old girl asked her mother what the green stuff on the pasta was. When her mom told her it was parsley, the girl threw up her hands, and said: “Well, I’ve never had it before, and now. My life. Is ruined.” • Six-year-old Stella and her mom are talking. Stella: “I’ll bet you can’t wait ‘til I’m a teenager!” Mom: “Actually, I can.” Stella: “Why?” Mom: “Because I like you being sweet.” Stella: “I’ll still be sweet when I’m a teenager. I’ll just have a weird way of showing it.”
Bad tantrum timing?
SOCIAL SCENE
10 October 2018
CXPRESS
People, places & events
KNOT TIED… WHY NOT?! Laurenzil Prins and Shanaaz Adams “finally” tied the knot on September 22 at St Michaels and All Angels Church in The Crags. Originally from Hankey, the groom is a police officer while his lovely Plett-bred bride is a pharmacist. The newlyweds have a 10-yearold boy and two-year-old daughter - so no, they didn’t meet yesterday… Mr and Mrs Prins give special thanks to Sounds and Events for the pretty decorations, to photographer Vinthi, to the brilliant bridal party, and to organist Clue Barnard. Family and friends came from Hankey, Cape Town, and Port Elizabeth, and enjoyed the talents of dancing troupe ‘Trip Stasie’. “We thank them for their performance, and we’re grateful for each and every guest who pitched up,” says Laurenzil, adding special thanks to Sergeant de Vos and his Crags Drill Squad - pictured above - for entertaining their guests, and to Reverend Canon Rudi Marais for a beautiful and blessed ceremony. - Photos: Vinthi Neufeld
a t s i n o i h s a F a L LEANDRE HAD A JOLLY GOOD IDEA… Flanking The Crags Drill Squad programme leader Yvette Wilschut, above, are squad members Nevin Titus and Andrea Wolhuter during last Friday night’s drag queen pageant to raise funds for the talented drillers’ forthcoming competition. Event initiator Leandra Louw is pictured here wearing a Jaguars rugby jersey with pride - understandably so, as players of this league-leading local team didn’t shy away at the prospect of donning dresses, heals, wigs and bling for a brilliant cause. With Leandre are Drag Queen 2018 Meano, and his proud mom, Annie Solomons, at left. Says Yvette: “The squad will compete in Cape Town this Saturday - their final competition for the year. We were short of funding so committee member and squad parent Leandre decided to approach our local rugby heroes, the Jaguars, to see if they would be up for a night of fun to assist. Her idea of a Miss Drag Queen competition was hilarious and brilliant - surely everyone would want to see their favourite rugby stars dressed up as ladies? Well she was very right: the hall was filled to capacity and everyone absolutely loved it. The Crags Drill Squad would like to thank the Jaguars ever so much for being such good sports, as they were willing to step completely out of their comfort zones to assist our children. You guys ROCK!” We wish the squad the very best for their competition in the Cape. If you would like to contribute, email yvette@wilschut.co.za or call 082 413 8077 for further information. - Photos: Vinthi Neufeld
ANNS JOIN THE SHOEBOX ARMY: Plett’s Rotary Anns responded to the countrywide Santa Shoebox Project call, which aims to make a million children happy over the festive season. “We have packed our boxes and will drop them off at Piesang Valley Community Hall at 9am on Saturday October 13,” explains Carole Damp, pictured at left with Joy Robin, Anns president Marjorie Henley, Beryl Winter, and Colleen Shuttleworth. Some 2,200 Bitou kids aged two to 18 will benefit when boxed are distributed to needy schools and crèches, and if you haven’t got your ducks in a row yet, contact convenor Deanne Roberts on 083 657 8856 to find out what to stock your box with!
TOP 13 VYING FOR CROWN: The Mr and Miss Plett-Knysna semi-finals were hosted at Sky Villa boutique hotel on Sunday, with five gents and eight ladies selected to move through to the finals. The event was a huge success and big thanks are due to Sky Villa’s amazing management and staff. Judges Lesley Jacobs, Rita Suliman, Leela Verity, Luiz de Fonseca and Lynette Mullins had their work cut out, and the pageant team of Zee Peters, Chantall Witthuhn, Kurt Andrews, and Estelle de Bruyn and crew did a marvellous job. Sponsors MRP are thanked for availing the lovely threads, and all the amazing contestants deserve a sonorous shout out, too. Watch this space for news of the finals. - Photo: Willow Mullins
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CXPRESS
10 October 2018
Paws
Plett Animal Welfare Service
CLASSIFIEDS
ON THE SOAPBOX
10 October 2018
Letters to the Editor
Email: editor@cxpress.co.za - Fax: 044 533 0852 - PO Box 1449, Plett 6600
How deep is the rot? Bitou officials get bloated salaries but no lifeguard in sight The weather on September 30 was truly glorious and all citizens of Plettenberg Bay wanted to let their hair down and enjoy the sun and surf. Sadly, amid the packed crowds of sun-seeking beachgoers, there was a sense of chaos with no visible beach patrols or lifeguards in sight. Reports started filtering in about people drinking, littering, and behaving dangerously in the surf. This was more than evident as our brave NSRI boys spent what should have been a safe and relaxed Sunday being called out more than once. Tourists complained about losing property as thieves seemed to have a field day. Beachgoers seemed almost shocked when asked to get out of the way of the launching NSRI boats and vehicles. Toilets were packed and disgusting to say the least. Many intoxicated people showed no dignity at all, bathing half naked and in some cases exposing themselves in the ocean. The same chaotic behaviour seemed permeate at Mellville’s Corner as locals pushed to get their last bottle of alcohol for the day.
CROWD UNCONTROLLED: This photo of Plett’s Central Beach shows massive crowds enjoying the brilliant weather on the first Sunday of the school holidays, but safety concerns after several NSRI call-outs, and the absence of municipal law enforcers or lifeguards were soon aired on social media - turn to page 3 of the October 3 edition at www.cxpress.co.za to find out more Photo: Claude de Koker
This type of overload is dangerous and without proper support services, planning and future vision, can result in tragedy. A clear eye should be cast on Bitou Municipality and, more specifically, recent reports of bloated salaries and no delivery solutions. Surely the lives of our citizens are worth more than a municipal manager’s inflated pension funds and car allowances? The irony in all of this was the huge outcry from concerned residents on social media, which prompted Marius Venter of Plett Watch and the Ratepayers Association
Nippers clean up after revellers leave beach in sordid state
Plett Surf Lifesaving Club member and Nipper officer Deon Coetzer shared this image and wrote: “The pic shows the amount of rubbish these kids collected on the night of September 30 before we left Central Beach - which was in an absolutely disgusting state after the day’s many revellers finally made their way home.” Flanking Matthew Coetzer are siblings Matt and Katie van Coller. Hats off to these Plett Primary students for preventing at least some of the marine life murdering rubbish from entering the ocean.
to rally the community around raising funds - to pay for the very services we pay taxes for. So we, the Plettenberg Bay community, managed to organise funding for the much-needed lifeguards (around R18,000) within four hours using social media and sadly what Bitou could not organise in months. The fact is that municipal management earns well over R18-million collectively, and yet not a person of authority was visible while local bylaws were being ignored - particularly no alcohol on beaches. Minutes from a recent
council meeting reflect that six members of management shared R18million plus. And we are assured by the CFO that the number of managers in that category is in fact now 15 and not six. Of those 15, not one was present anywhere near the problem areas of Bitou last Sunday. Nor was one single uniformed Bitou safety officer or municipal law enforcement officer! This is not acceptable and Plett Ratepayers Association is seeking legal advice on getting a court order against Bitou Municipality for its total dereliction of duty to its citizens. In future on weekends such as these, ordinary people can be sure of protection that the municipality is obliged to provide at all beaches. Plett’s ratepayers donated R5,000 to Marius Venter’s initiative and we remain committed to fight for the rights of the residents of Plettenberg Bay. Join the ratepayers today and help keep our community on track. Mark-John Cartmell, Plett (Email ceo@brightgiants. com and visit www. plettratepayers.co.za for more information. - Eds.)
Glorious beach day marred by mindless littering Sunday September 30 was a beautiful day, and all of Plett’s beaches were brimming with people making the most of the lovely weather. But what a site when walking across the sand at 6:30 that evening to go for dinner at The Bungalow - a filthy beach littered with plastic packets, bottles, empty takeaway boxes, nappies, and more. There were still many people around enjoying themselves - which is all good, but a lot of alcohol was being consumed in the process. I didn’t know that
drinking on the beach was even permitted. Anyway, no one seemed at all concerned about the filth around them. But have no fear: this debris will be swept into the ocean and the sea life will choke on the plastic. In my opinion, Plettenberg Bay’s beaches need more bins and it’s also essential to have some form of law enforcement in place. Disgusted, Cape Town (See the Nipper photo and caption at left and the letter above regarding the lack of lifeguards and Bitou law enforcement on the day in question. - Eds.)
Thanks to all responsible for Woody’s miraculous recovery I would like to extend thanks to a number of exceptional people who went out of their way to help an equally exceptional little animal. Our semi-adopted cat, Woodstock, was hit by a car some time ago. He had been missing for two days before we found him in the bushes on the side of the road.
One of his hind legs had been badly injured and looked a likely candidate for amputation. There was absolutely no flesh surrounding the bones and his paw appeared to be crushed. However, thanks to the dedicated brilliance of the vets at Plett Veterinary Clinic and the care of all the staff who dealt
with Woodstock, he has now made a miraculous recovery. You guys are simply incredible. We would also like to thank Tracy from PAWS for her support, as well as Marcus from Lomar Marine for his understanding during Woodstock’s frequent trips to town… Graeme, Mike, Teresa, and Woodstock, Plett
CHARACTER CAT: Woodstock has had more than nine lives, including his escape as a kitten from a Forrest buzzard
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Dean Reilly did a really good job It may be interesting to note that the engineer in charge of the Beacon Way construction, which is now coming to completion, is a local man named Dean Reilly. Interestingly, Dean travelled that very road as a young scholar at Plett Pre-Primary daily. How proud we Plett locals
should be to have this young man turning the bad old Beacon Way into its present state of glory as a very competent civil engineer. Dean and his competent number-one foreman should be congratulated for a job well done. Proud, Plett
La Luna
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CXPRESS
SPORT & ADVENTURE
10 October 2018
Crazy for walking? Then join the quest to foot it to Mars! HE Crazy for Walking initiative aims to destigmatise - and broaden awareness of - mental illness. October 10 is World Mental Health Day and in South Africa, a group of walkers who set off from Pretoria last week will arrive at Cape Town’s V&A Waterfront to mark the occasion. “Walking this distance is a crazy feat in itself when you consider that there are many easier ways of getting from the one city to the other,” says Francois Louw, CEO of the Crazy for Walking initiative. “You see, it’s not crazy to have a mental illness, but walking from Pretoria to the Cape, now that’s crazy.” At towns all along the route, free talks about mental health were given by experts, and these were very well attended. One in every three South Africans will suffer a mental health episode in their lifetime and about 75% of sufferers do not receive any help. Mental illness is a combined descriptor given to several conditions, including depression, anxiety, post-traumatic stress, and
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Storms River
TIN HOUSE Self-catering accommodation
YOU’VE GOTTA BE CRAZY… Walkers set off in Pretoria last week, and will arrive in the Cape today, October 10 being globally hailed as World Mental Health Day
bipolar disorder. “We’re aiming to remove the hurtful sting of the word ‘crazy’ when it is associated with mental illness, and to educate and inform people on the subject. Exercise plays an important role in maintaining a healthy body and mind,” says Louw. “Apart from the Crazy Walk to Cape Town, we’ve set our sights much higher this year and are now starting on a walk to Mars. Obviously this is not physically doable, but we want to get as many people walking as possible.” To this end, they have developed an App with a counter combining the distance walked by everyone
involved in a quest to reach 54.6-million kilometres (the shortest distance between Earth and Mars) in the shortest time possible. The Crazy for Walking App is available as a free download in both the Google Play and Apple App Store (search for ‘Crazy for walking’). All you have to do is set it each time you go for a walk, or participate in a specific event. It also integrates with Apple and Google Health when you use a treadmill, so data from the treadmill walk can be saved to your Apple and/ or Samsung watch. Email info@crazyforwalking.co.za or visit www.crazyforwalk ing.co.za to find out more.
Honorary Rangers treat off-roaders to seldom-seen Outeniqua vistas
Participants are pictured above, waiting for the ‘Off!’ on the Wilderness village green in the second annual ‘Road less travelled off-road experience’. Organised by SANParks Honorary Rangers attached to the Wilderness section of Garden Route National Park, the event gives keen 4x4 enthusiasts the opportunity to sample three routes in the forested Outeniqua foothills that are normally closed to visitors. The routes, up to 140km, are guided and there is a charge per participating vehicle, which is donated to SANParks conservation activities. These tracks, including the Karatara and Goudveld forests and Voortrekker Route, are normally used for monitoring the state of the forests - and, when necessary, for firefighting - but closed to the public, so the ride was an unique opportunity to enjoy hidden vistas. - Words & photo: Bob Hopkin