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
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Enough is enough!
Photo: Vinthi Neufeld
11 September 2019
On Monday, Plettenberg Bay women joined marchers and demonstrators across the country to proclaim outrage over the rate at which women and children are harmed and killed with perceived impunity on a daily basis in every corner of South Africa. Emotions ran particularly high after the recent discovery of murdered local teen Sandisiwe Mona’s remains. Turn to page 3 to find out more.
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CXPRESS
NEWS & VIEWS
11 September 2019
2019 Rugby Springboks in Japan - 1937 Rugby Springboks in Plettenberg Bay HARTERED accountant turned master storyteller Michael Charton is no stranger to Garden Route audiences, having featured at both the Plett Fringe and Knysna Literary festivals in recent years. Now, as Rugby World Cup fever is reaching boiling point, readers can look forward to a different take on the same game - albeit a completely dissimilar rugby era - when Charton performs his self-penned story The First World Champions in Plett on Friday, thanks to the support of Investec. Described as “the untold story of the 1937 Springboks in new Zealand”, Charton says he stumbled upon it in an old bookstore in Cape Town eight years ago. “Little did I know at the time that this laughably obscure story about a tour that took place more than 40 years before I was born, would change my life. Something in that story caught my eye, and so, purely for personal curiosity, I began the hunt for more information on the tour.” This ultimately led him to the personal scrap books and photo albums of some of these longforgotten Springboks - which is where he discovered a collection of amazing anecdotes. Among others are accounts of our team’s unlikely but amazing relationship with the Maori people; their young Jewish star from the Free State who would make his way into Hitler’s bunker; and the many amusing antics of a famous gentlemanthug called Boy Louw. “To me, these anecdotes extended beyond the chalk lines. They offered instead a glimpse into the beauty of the human spirit. For many of them
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fought in the war and several lived most remarkable lives,” says Charton of that unique group of men.
And having researched this murky subject for many months, he was persuaded to tell the story to a formal gath-
THE DANIE DIVE: Danie Craven’s famous dive-pass - a thorn in the side of the All Blacks in 1937
READY TO CONQUER THE KIWIS: From left are George van Reenen, Howard Watt, Tony Harris, and Fred Turner
FARMERS, STUDENTS, BANKERS & CO: This team photo appeared in a newspaper of the time - from left at back are TA Harris, DF van der Vyver, SR Hofmeyr, J White, AD Lawton and L Babro; in the second row are WE Bastard, JW Lotz, J Bester, GP Lochner, HJ Martin, DO Williams and JA Broodryk; the third row features CB Jennings, SC Louw, MA van den Berg, WF Bergh, GL van Reenen, AR Sheriff, B du Toit and H Watt; seated from left are FG Turner, PJ Lyster, manager PW Day, MM Louw, captain PJ Nel, vice-captain DH Craven, assistant manager Alex de Villiers, GH Brand and LC Strachan, with P de Villiers in front
ering in 2012 to mark the 75th anniversary of the tour. He has subsequently travelled the country with the team, telling their story to consistently overwhelming feedback. “It is hard to articulate what makes this obscure story special. I have told it close to 50 times and every single time I have been confronted with raw emotion in my audience, for it is as much a human story as it is a rugby story. “This was a time where values trumped the desire to win, notwithstanding the incredible passion with which rugby was played in the 1930s. Having lived through this amazing tour and the war that followed, it is tough to comprehend that these men are no more.” Like all of Charton’s work, his narrative explores subtle and timeless human truths that enables this story to carry surprising relevance in the modern world. Come and meet the motley crew that made up the 1937 Springbok tour team to New Zealand - farmers, students, teachers, and one unlikely banker - who were, for a moment, freed of the throttling political environment in South Africa and allowed to express themselves as both rugby players and human beings. The First World Champions is staged at Piesang Valley community Hall at 7pm on Friday September 13. Tickets at R240 include a glass of wine and snacks, and can be obtained through Webtickets or instore at Pick n Pay. All proceeds will benefit Kwano Academy (check out their amazing work at @ kwanocycling on Facebook) and call David on 082 414 1822 for additional information.
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NEWS & VIEWS
11 September 2019
CXPRESS
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Family fuming over lack of arrests following tragic discovery of Sandisiwe’s remains Ludumo Tede
OVED ones of slain Sandisiwe Mona, 17, claim that the police are operating at a tortoise pace in apprehending the person they allege is responsible for their girl child’s untimely death. This follows the discovery of the remains of the Grade 10 student from KwaNokuthula - who was reported missing five months ago - by a resident walking his dog in Ladywood a fortnight ago. It was later confirmed through DNA testing that the remains belonged to Sandisiwe. According to the police report, the teenager went missing around April 13. Apparently, the girl’s grandmother had left her at home while attending a funeral. On her return she discovered that Sandisiwe had dis-
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appeared. She was reported missing and local police launched a search party, which was conducted over a period of time but without any success. Later the search was downscaled and eventually called off. A wrongful arrest was initially made when a Malawian national was detained following the discovery that Sandisiwe had communicated with him telephonically before her disappearance. Owing to unsubstantial evidence, he was later released. Meanwhile, despite the family’s belief that Sandisiwe’s murderer is a community member whom they have identified as a possible suspect, no further arrests have been made. “We as a family feel that this is a slow process, because we have indicated to the police that they could
have taken the guy and put him away for sure while they were waiting for the DNA results,” said family spokesperson Zitho Tyontwana. He also indicated that the family had to dig into their own pockets and hire a private pathologist because the waiting period for the results, as stated by the police, was too lengthy. Southern Cape police spokesperson captain Malcolm Pojie said: “Following the discovery, an inquest docket has been opened for further investigation. “As the investigation unfolded, DNA samples were obtained from the mother of the victim which later, during the private analysis, proved to be a match to the DNA sample retrieved from the skeleton of the missing girl. “The docket might be changed to murder should evidence emerge that shows
Bitou women break silence on gender violence
Women from all walks of life united on Monday morning, marching down Plett Main Street to add their voices to millions from around the country bemoaning the desperate plight of South African women and children. Masks were worn during the march but discarded during the speeches, symbolising the breaking of the silence over gender-based violence. Pictured at left is Bitou Fire Station employee Lumnka Mazondo Ndabeni, whose T-shirt features a photo of 22-year-old Kwano model Simnikiwe Mfengu, who was stabbed to death by her boyfriend last December. The front of the shirt reads ‘RIP Simnikiwe Mfengu’ and ‘A good heart has stopped beating’ is printed on the back. Also see the reports on Sandisiwe Mona and student activist Sinovuyo Kitsi on this page and page 4. - Photos: Vinthi Neufeld
foul play could have been involved. No arrest has been made.” The discovery of Sandisiwe’s remains preceded a countrywide outcry against the scourge of crimes perpetrated against women and children in South Africa. Her body will be laid to rest in Joubertina on Saturday September 14.
CUT DOWN: Sandisiwe Mona’s body was found a forthinght ago she was reported missing on April 13 this year
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NEWS & VIEWS
11 September 2019
Sedgefield hammer murderer back in the dock today Talia Day
Read CXPRESS online at www.cxpress.co.za
Get connected to crimefighting network for joint effort against syndicates UTHORITIES have warned of a sudden increase in burglaries in Plett and believe a crime syndicate is behind the criminal activity. The latest in this crime spate occurred last week Friday with three burglaries in one night. Plett Watch’s Lisa Nagel said two of the incidents happened in the Longships and Cutty Sark areas between 6pm and 10pm. “In both cases, residents had just left before the incidents occurred. Both properties were ransacked and doors were broken off cupboards,” Nagel said, adding that among the items stolen were cash, jewellery, and electronic equipment. “It would appear that most of these crimes occur because the homes and movements of the residents are being watched all the time.” Nagel said it was therefore important to be “extra vigilant” of people walking the
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streets. “Also check to see where they disappear to as they walk down the road. Please take note of your surroundings at all times and report any suspicious activity immediately.” Plettenberg Bay Crime Prevention Association (PBCPA) operations head Otto Olivier said there was a definite increase in burglaries in Plett. “There is a crime syndicate active in our town that specialises in gaining access through roofs and disarming alarm systems,” Olivier said. He added it was essential that the PBCPA 24/7 control room was advised of any suspicious or unusual movements by people or vehicles in the town’s different areas. “The PBCPA WhatsApp groups are monitored by our control room.” He urged residents to get connected with the group by sending their names and addresses to 083 271 1142. - Yolandé Stander
Plett Tourism update Cindy Wilson-Trollip
E are excited to announce that a new board was elected at the 2019 Plett Tourism Association AGM on August 28, with in excess of 130 people in attendance. Elected officials of the Plett Tourism Association Board are: • Self-catering and small accommodation services: Nokuzola ‘Noksie’ Kolwapi - Jabulani Farm self-catering • Guest house and B&B services: Therry Wuethrich Hotel Grand Africa • Hotel services: MJ Birch The Plettenberg Hotel • Activity services: Lara Mostert - the South African Animal Sanctuary Alliance • Restaurant services: Nicola Ash - The Fat Fish • Eco-tourism services: Mark Brown - Nature’s Valley Trust.
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Please note the following board candidates will be placed by appointment: • Bitou Municipality - one: To be confirmed • Bitou Municipality - two: To be confirmed • Business Chamber: Duncan Brown - Beacon Isle KwikSpar • Community - one: To be confirmed • Community Police Forum/Professional Services: Bruce Richardson • Executive chairman: To be confirmed after the inaugural PTA Board Meeting • Treasurer: Liz Phillips Fynbos Ridge Country House. The team at Plett Tourism is looking forward to working with the new board and will continue to keep tourism and the town of Plett in the forefront of international tourism.
EAN Kelly, the selfconfessed killer of Noreen Hampson, has travelled back from Valkenberg Psychiatric Hospital in Cape Town, where his mental state has been evaluated since August 13, to appear in the Knysna Magistrate’s Court today. He had been waiting for months for a bed at the hospital, and despite the fact that evaluations usually take up to three weeks to process, was ordered back by the magistrate for this September 11 appearance. Valkenberg is a state-run psychiatric facility with isolated wards for patients sent for psychiatric evaluation by a magistrate. It currently comprises 370 beds of which about 165 are dedicated to acute and 145 to forensic psychiatric services, while the remain-
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der houses a small component of long-term patients. The most prominent person recently sent to Valkenberg was Shrien Dewani in 2014, for the murder of his wife, Anni. While awaiting trial, Dewani was under 24-hour police surveillance in his 14m2 cell in the maximum security section of the hospital. Kelly has been in custody since February 2, when he allegedly murdered his neighbour in Marigold Street, Sedgefield. During his bail hearing, Kelly admitted to killing Hampson but denied it was premeditated, despite the fact that he was walking around with the murder weapon, a homemade hammer, when he went to confront Hampson in her garden. There have also been al-
legations that Kelly could be connected to the disappearance of Marie Østbø, who went missing in April last year. Østbø was last seen on the beach at Myoli, where she was walking with her tour group before a heavy storm. She was reported missing after the group returned from the beach; apart from her cellphone being found in the dunes, there have been no further leads in the case. A special investigator from Pretoria visited Sedgefield four weeks ago, questioning the owner of a well-known local backpackers, but he declined to comment on the progress of the case. Østbø’s phone has been successfully accessed and information shared with the relevant authorities.
Her father, Atle Østbø, had seen a picture of Kelly during his trial, and positively identified him as the man walking a dog towards Marie in a video clip on her phone. He claimed this man was the only other person on the beach at the time Marie went missing, but CCTV footage has brought no new evidence pertaining to this mysterious man. During Kelly’s bail hearing, he ostensibly mentioned Marie’s disappearance. “Why did he mention her at all?” asked Østbø. “We have investigated everything again since this new information had come to light, but found absolutely no link between the Kelly case and that of the missing Norwegian girl,” said SAPS spokesman captain Malcolm Pojie.
Local students take a stand against gendercrimes against women ters are being raped and based brutality and children. murdered with impunity. Ludumo Tede
OINING thousands of communities across the country, KwaNokuthula residents staged a march against gender violence on Friday afternoon September 6. Significantly, the event was organised by 16-year-old Murray High student Sinovuyo Kitsi. The march served as manifestation not only of the agitation over crimes against women and children, but also of how desperately harsher sentences for perpetrators are required. It commenced at Eyethu Centre which houses a post office, serving as stark reminder of the venue where 19-year-old Uyinene Mrwetyane was raped and murdered in Cape Town a fortnight ago, allegedly by a male post office worker - an incident that have sent shockwaves across the country. Marchers young and
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old came out in numbers, carrying placards and chanting slogans. They headed to the police station, where a list of demands was read out by a fired-up Kitsi. She called on the SAPS to bring perpetrators, whom she said were roaming freely in the community, to book and be locked away. She berated the men in blue for dragging their feet when dealing with
“Women and children are not protected by the police, as cases are opened only to be ignored,” claimed Kitsi. Addressing hundreds of marchers, she said: “We, the students of Knysna and Plett, demand answers from the South African Police Services, as we are targets of the sick perpetrators living in our communities. “Our brothers and sis-
We are sick and tired of being targeted. We also have the right of movement in this democratic South Africa.” The march took place at a time when Plettenberg Bay is mourning Sandisiwe Mona, whose alleged perpetrator is said to be living in the Kwano community. The Knysna Plett student movement called for justice for their friend.
IN IT TOGETHER: Makabonge Achumer Thandwa, left, with student leader Sinovuyo Kitsi who organised a successful protest march in Kwano on Friday - Photo: Vinthi Neufeld
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11 September 2019
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Have your say in Knysna’s new plan to ensure it’s the most desired tion opportunities and destination plan is available na.gov.za/tourism-destina velopment manager Petrus tourism destination identifies an implementa- from the municipal offices tion-plan-documents/. van Niekerk - email pvan NYSNA Municipality has compiled a tourism destination plan for the town and surrounds. The plan, titled Destination Knysna - Towards a Sustainable Tourism Economy, is now available for public perusal and comment. Mayor Mark Willemse explained that the plan had been compiled to enable a coordinated and focused approach to the development of Greater Knysna into a destination brand that can actively compete on the global stage. “The tourism industry is of great strategic importance to us,” he said. “We know that our local economy is largely dependent on this sector. Greater Knysna benefits from a clear and compelling advantage regarding tourism: the abundance, diversity and accessibility of our natural assets. “To ensure that Knysna is well positioned and prepared to extract maximum economic benefit from the shifts taking place in the global market, a strategically astute tourism destination plan is essential. “Our objective is to provide a strategy that defines a collective vision for tourism development in Greater Knysna.” The Knysna Municipality Tourism Destination Plan aims to: • Improve Greater Knysna’s existing attraction as a destination; • Define and establish Greater Knysna’s position as a desirable destination by improving the quality of, and increasing the number of tourism products on offer; • To increase the number of domestic and international leisure and business travellers that choose Greater Knysna as their port of call. “The plan is the result of to a comprehensive tourism strategy development process that was driven by our Economic Development department during the past two financial years,” explained Willemse.
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“Implementation will be initiated through a tourism development programme, coordinated by this same department during the 2019/20 financial year. We have done the research and drafted the plan, but we need your input to finalise the document and to put the plan into action. “Many of our residents in Greater Knysna have spent several successful years within the tourism industry. We also have residents who, while not necessarily directly involved with tourism, might possess insight and expertise on other aspects related to the plan. I invite you one and all to deliver your constructive input.” Schedule 4B of the Constitution of the Republic of South Africa (1996) identifies tourism as a local municipal competency but, in practice, it is the joint responsibility of local government and the private sector. “In the past, we relied heavily on Knysna Tourism and Knysna & Partners to fulfil the destination marketing function, based on an annual service level agreement and a grant-inaid,” Willemse explained. “In re-evaluating the local tourism mandate it has become evident that an appropriate, alternative model is required for us to perform our legal mandate. And we look forward to doing so, working closely with the private sector. “In fact, local and national government policy encourages destination organisations to become focussed and efficient bodies that are increasingly led by the private sector.” The draft Knysna Municipality tourism destination plan concerns and discusses destination marketing, as well as the status quo regarding legislation, strategic planning, institutional influencers and economic linkages. “It also presents a comprehensive market analysis, explores the destina-
tion plan,” he said. “But it needs your input.” According to Willemse the plan interprets desk research, qualitative and quantitative research, as well as input from government, industry and the community. “It consolidates these factors into a defined and explicit set of actions required to create an informed and considered foundation for the development of Greater Knysna into a world-class destination that draws maximum socio-economic benefit from the tourism industry.” “Our area has it all,” he said. “Our stunning estuary and access to the ocean, our beautiful Blue Flag beaches, the rivers and lakes that meander through Greater Knysna, the mystery of our ancient indigenous forests and the acres and acres of Cape fynbos. “This natural playground comes with an incredible variety of activities available to adventurers of all ages and levels of enthusiasm. Our lifestyle and sporting events are legendary, and we offer access to worldrenowned golf courses.” “We boast many producers of craft food and drink, and we have some really good restaurants. Knysna and Sedgefield are fantastically located to explore the rest of the Garden Route, or as a stop-over for visitors travelling to or from Cape Town. “There are so many reasons to visit Greater Knysna, and so much to do while you’re here.” “But these products can be further developed, and new ones cultivated. And then the destination must be successfully marketed so we may all reap the benefits of a year-round, successful tourism industry,” he concluded. “That is ultimately the aim of this draft plan so have a look, have your say, and have a hand in creating an inspired, innovative and inclusive Knysna.” The draft Knysna tourism
in Clyde Street, municipal libraries, and at www.knys
Queries may be directed to Knysna Economic De-
niekerk@knysna.gov.za or call 044 302 6300.
SO MUCH TO DO: The Knysna Waterfront and marina are but some of the products to be further cultivated and marketed for all residents to reap benefits of a year-round tourism industry
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NEWS & VIEWS
11 September 2019
Plett performers delight Cape audiences at Cradle of Creativity Fest Ludumo Tede
UNCHBOX Theatre actors sailed Cape Town crowds through oceans of emotions when last month staging their play called Dream, which is aimed to make audience members cry and laugh at the same time. The play was performed as part of the weeklong Assitej South Africa International Cradle of Creativity Festival 2019, held at the Baxter Theatre from August 20-25. This children’s play penned by Lunchbox’s very own Amanda Valela is performed by herself and fellow thespians Mncedisi Ncedani, who also composed the play’s theme song, and Lunchbox Theatre founder Stuart Palmer. Directed by Golden Ovation award winner Nhlanhla Mkhwanazi, Dream showed the Mother City what Plett actors are capable of when given the stage. The play is no stranger to performing arts events, having been staged at both national and international festivals such as the Gra-
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LIVING THE DREAM: From left, Amanda, Mncedisi, and Stuart capture the hearts of their appreciative audience
hamstown Arts Festival and Iran International Arts Festival, both in 2018. In the process, Plett gained significant publicity, not only as a tourist destination with unique natural beauty, but also as a home of the arts. This is a tremendous achievement for playwright and actor Amanda Valela a young woman from KwaNokuthula with scattered passions across the world of art, since she is also a singer and choreographer. Her play being chosen for yet another international performing arts festival, which also features the Market Theatre Labora-
tory’s award-winning production entitled Hani, has greatly increased Amanda’s artistic mileage. The Capetonians’ reception of Dream failed to disappoint Amanda, who says the play served its mission, which is to delight audiences across the board. “I am happy and the children especially loved the play,” she told CXPRESS on Friday. Being her first-ever attempt at writing a play, and the favourable reception so far by audiences from far and wide, Amanda’s confidence in her craft has been bolstered. She now sees one direction to follow, and that is up!
One degree or more? Making the call on postgraduate study options S the soon-to-be-graduates from the Class of 2019 near the end of their studies, they need to start considering their options for next year. While many are getting ready to enter the workplace, the question about whether they should pursue postgraduate studies will be on the minds of tens of thousands of students. “Graduating from your first qualification is an important milestone, but it should be viewed as just that - a milestone, not the end of the road,” says Dr Felicity Coughlan, director of The Independent Institute of Education. Coughlan says one’s first qualification should be considered a foundation upon which to design and build one’s vision of the future. “Your success now depends on what you build on top of that foundation, and for successful people that often includes further study and development of skills. In a world where demands on professionals in the workplace change constantly, this is even more true than it was even a few years ago.” Coughlan notes that while being a graduate significantly improves a person’s chances of finding employment, holding a postgraduate qualification significantly boosts their prospects in a tough job market. Particularly those graduates with relatively generic undergraduate qualifications must seriously consider investing more time to earn
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a postgraduate qualification. For many, a postgraduate diploma may well be the next best step, she says. “Postgraduate diplomas are intended to help you focus, diversify your skillset and even change direction, so the entrance requirements are often more open than would be the case for an honours degree,” says Coughlan. She says in postgraduate diploma study, theory and practical application are combined, with the emphasis on the latter. “A postgraduate diploma also allows students to progress straight to a master’s degree. It is therefore the ideal qualification type for students who want to wrap up and consolidate their undergraduate qualifications with a career-specific focus.” On the other hand, new graduates who want to increase their academic depth in a particular subject, or those who are already sure they want to pursue a master’s or even progress all the way to a doctorate, should seriously consider going the honours route next. “These are more academic and theoretical than a postgraduate diploma, and they include a compulsory research component. “As a result, you will be ready for a master’s afterwards and you will already have had experience conducting research - which is a very valuable skill for anyone in the workplace. “In the world of false in-
formation, the ability to ask the right questions and get valid and reliable answers is a highly marketable skill, and that is really what research is about.” Coughlan says that the advice also holds true for those who have already entered the workplace. “There is an increasing trend for working adults to seek formal qualifications later in their working life, to remain competitive with a current and diverse skillset. “Short courses have real value for narrow and defined skill sets but a new qualification - particularly one that should not take you more than a year to 18 months to complete, is a great career and CV enhancer while it also builds really deep skill sets for you.” She urges the Class of 2019, now approaching the end of their final year of undergraduate studies, to focus on doing as well as they can. “Particularly immediately after graduation, the results you get will strongly influence your immediate options and what you are able to study next. Once you have some work experience, your results become less important and your experience and work performance more so. “But in the long run, the better your results, the stronger the impression they create on others, whether that be on future employers, or the institution at which you start the next leg on your lifelong learning journey.”
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11 September 2019
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Tourism can be the catalyst for rapid job creation in South Africa, says minister at Tourism Month launch OURISM minister of Mmamoloko Kubayi-Ngubane’s message for the year ahead is clear: job creation is of utmost priority and tourism can be the catalyst to make it happen. Speaking at the Tourism Month launch at Drakensberg Sun Resort in KwaZulu-Natal, KubayiNgubane emphasised that tourism has the potential to boost SA’s economic growth and improve job creation, which requires an inclusive tourism sector. “The creation of jobs and business opportunities is in line with our ‘We Do Tourism’ movement, which aims to make tourism everyone’s business as this industry intersects every area of our lives. “It gets the whole country to rally behind our industry, through demonstrating the far-reaching impact of the tourism value chain,” she said. The theme for this year’s World Tourism Day is ‘Tourism and jobs - a better future for all’, which highlights the sector’s vast capability to create jobs and therefore reduce the country’s unemployment rate. “We are confident that tourism will contribute to our country, showing the positive economic growth
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desired by government and creating a maximum of jobs,” she said. She highlighted the importance of Tourism Month as a means to both South Africans and visitors from outside our boarders to travel and experience the country’s diverse offerings. In March this year, a World Travel and Tourism Council report stated that South Africa has the largest tourism economy in Africa, having indirectly contributed 1.5-million jobs (9.2% of SA’s employment) and R425.8billion during 2018. It also indicated that the sector accounts for 8.6% of the country’s GDP. “The fundamental to achieving the president’s target of 21-million tour-
ist arrivals in SA by 2030, is to firstly continue to work closely with the Department of Home Affairs on visa facilitation to increase access to our country by our tourists. “Secondly, we need to work closely with the minister of Police and stakeholders in our sector to address the concerns of safety. Lastly and most importantly, we must develop and drive an aggressive marketing campaign for both domestic and international markets. “This will involve target marketing to countries with potential for our international market and focused campaigns, for example, to millennials in a language they understand and by the people they can relate to,” added
RALLY BEHIND US: Minister Kubayi-Ngubane is confident that tourism is one of the main drivers of South Africa’s positive economic growth
Kubayi-Ngubane. Tourism Month is celebrated in the same month that the UN World Tourism Organisation celebrates World Tourism Day, which falls on September 27 each year. It is also the same month that South African Tourism’s Sho’t Left Travel Week takes place, from September 23-29. During this week, participating tourism businesses offer travellers up to 50% off tour packages and related products and services. These deals must be bought during that week but can be redeemed at any other time depending on the partner’s terms and conditions. Visit www. shotleft.co.za for all the Travel Week 2019 deals. Tourism Month falls in line with South Africa’s vision to ignite inclusive economic growth, sustainable job creation and transformation which are all critical for the industry. It forms part of the National Development Plan that recognises tourism as one of the main drivers of the economy. “Tourism Month aims to generate awareness of the enormous contribution that the tourism industry makes to economic growth and job creation,” concluded Kubayi-Ngubane.
Consider debt counselling to keep wolf from the door OSS of employment, salary cuts, medical bills, rising fuel and food prices, overspending, and cost of living in general are some of the reasons why consumers end up being over-indebted. You are considered over-indebted if your available income is not enough to pay for basic living expenses and debts. The National Credit Act (NCA) introduced debt counselling as a debt-relief measure aimed at assisting and rehabilitating over-indebted consumers. This assistance is provided by debt counsellors registered with the National Credit Regulator (NCR) through negotiation with credit providers and reduction of monthly contractual payments in line with the consum-
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er’s disposable income. “Rehabilitation is realised through regular reduced payments until the debt is paid up and a clearance certificate is issued,” explains Kedilatile Legodi, manager for Debt Counselling at the NCR. When consumers are under debt counselling, they get protection against legal action by credit providers for as long as they maintain payments of their monthly reduced payments. Consumers who are married in community of property have to make a joint debt counselling application. There is no prescribed or fixed debt counselling repayment term and the period that consumers remain under debt counselling depends on their
income, basic living expenses, and the type of debt incurred. At times, debt counselling is offered or advertised as a payment holiday or a savings plan where consumers are promised to save up to a certain percentage of their monthly instalments. “This type of advertisement is misleading and prohibited,” says Legodi. “Consumers need to understand that debt counselling is a relief measure to cope with financial distress, and that they remain responsible to continue paying their debts until they are paid up. “Debt counselling does not in any way give consumers a break from paying any of their debts,” he stresses. Consumers are encour-
aged to be proactive and seek help immediately when noticing signs of over-indebtedness and financial distress. In addition, before consumers sign application forms, they have to make sure that they understand the debt counselling process, their rights and obligations, as well as the consequences of being under debt counselling. Debt counsellors have an obligation to explain the process in detail and to disclose applicable debt counselling fees in writing. (Visit www.ncr. org.za for a list of registered counsellors and see the advert on page 10.) “Debt should not be a silent killer or the end of the road. Debt counselling leads to relief and rehabilitation,” he says.
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INTERVAL
11 September 2019
Talia on Toast
Going to the shops Garden Route local TALIA DAY is a mom with two kids, a Viking, and three jobs (online teacher, reporter, and novelist). Her dream is to brighten someone’s day and to make people aware of the fact that their tribulations are not singular, since we all share in the craziness that is life and parenthood. S a grown up, going to the shops before having children is a thoughtless little jaunt. You hop in the car, park, hop out, and get a few items. In and out in under five minutes - easy peasy, lemon squeezy. Going to the shops with two children under the age of five is a trip that requires planning, forethought, and handcuffs. The call goes out to the spawns: “Come kids, we are going to the shops!” Deafening wailing and suspicious thumping can be heard from the secret princess oasis. My momstincts kick in, that radar that starts bleeping when your womb spawns are up to no good. First-born is hiding in her bed under her unicorn duvet, loving the cat to death, and secondborn - who has bypassed the walking phase and is now in full-on running mode - is trying her best to break out of the prison that she has landed in. Her head upside in the cat’s basket, with her arms stuck in the handles and her feet sticking out at an awkward angle, wrapped in a chain of unknown origins. A plethora of kid-friendly swear words spew forth as I extricate the child, the half dead cat, and the princess and drag them to the car, minus feline. The overloaded nappy bag is dragged behind me. Why is this damn thing so heavy? I wonder, before extricating the second cat from the nappy bag. The strapping in of said spawns begins, with first
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spawn moaning that she wants to sit in front, and that she doesn’t need to be strapped in. *Click*. You are not going anywhere… Second spawn is in her car seat, and proceeds to beat me on the head with her favourite implement of mom-torture: her wooden spoon. Thus bruised and wheezing for breath, I climb into the car. First spawn winds down her window and starts singing the most beautiful mermaid tale at the top of her voice, which is actually equatable to the sound of cats mating, and I want to rip my ears off my head and burn them. “What a beautiful song, Baby,” I say through gritted teeth. With the children fastened, we take the short jaunt to Pick n Pay. I find a parking space, which is 20,000km away from the door, just great! No chance of leaving the kids in the car to run in and get bread, not with a child being kidnapped every five hours. Hmmm… That is actually a thought! I unload the clawing crab and the mermaid, who now has a tail and can’t walk. I drag them to the trolley section and load them into a trolley, where innocent bystanders are relatively safe from nails, teeth, and cuteness. “Baby love.” “Yes, Mama?” “I bet you anything in this shop that we can get through the whole of Pick n Pay without you asking for anything… ” “Ok, Mama!”
Thirty seconds of silence… “Mommeeeee, I want a unicorn book, Mommeeee Mommeeee, buy me flowers, Mommeeeeee, I want unicorn cereal. Mommeeeeee!” Please! Take them now! Here! I will pay you to take my children, with a non-returnable address. At the veggie section, I grab a few items, one of them being a broccoli. Second spawn takes one look at this green item of vegetable and uses her four brand new, shark sharp little gnashers to bite a huge chunk from the packaging. She looks at the broccoli, with plastic and green stuff hanging from her mouth, and throws said vegetable out of the trolley. I hurriedly rush to pick it up, hoping no one saw, and turn around to find second spawn out of the trolley sitting on the pocket of oranges display, happily throwing the loose fruits at her giggling sister. Into the biscuit isle… don’t, just don’t, ever! The moaning starts up again, like a record stuck on repeat. “Mommeeee, I want this, Mommee I want that!” “No.” First spawn turns around and sits on the bananas in a huff. Second spawn has elastic armed boxes of cookies into the trolley, and she is
desperately reaching for the Oreos with her little finger pointing and saying: “Da! da! da! da!” I take first-born from the squashed bananas and put her on the floor. Big mistake. She zooms off like a deflating balloon, sound effects and all, to the sweetie aisle. I desperately run after her - second spawn thinks it’s great fun and laughs all the way as I do a mad hunt for my lost child. Finally finding first spawn, of Satan - who refuses to walk away from the chips, and starts with the beginnings of a tantrum, I grab her hand and she goes limp like an egg, and falls to the floor. So I unceremoniously abandon the trolley, pick up second spawn - of demonic origins - and drag first-born along the floor to make a quick exit before I commit infanticide. The four-year-old thinks this is a huge game and starts giggling her little head off, and singing, as I am dragging her 21kg body by the arm while clinging onto second-born, who wants to join the game, too. We leave without any groceries. All I have to say is: Pick n Pay, your floors are really clean. • Talia on Toast is a monthly column - watch this space for the next instalment in CXPRESS of October 9.
SOCIAL SCENE
11 September 2019
CXPRESS
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People, places & events 12 ARTISTS - 12 STYLES: If you are in Knysna during the week to come, don’t miss the thoroughly joyful exhibition of paintings and drawings on show at Art on Queen Gallery, on the corner of Green and Queen streets. Entitled ‘12 Artists - 12 Styles’, it features works by members of Lyn’s Art Loft and highlights their different styles and perceptions. Rendered in various mediums - oils, acrylics, watercolours, pen and ink, and the humble pencil - subjects range from flowers, botanicals, seashells and atmospheric landscapes, to wildlife and the human form. With Loft members exhibiting for the first time, this is a chance to see and perhaps purchase affordable original work by a local artist. Lyn - pictured above with participating artists Brenda Urbanik, Sharon Campbell, Taryn Cox, Penny Goument, Lynn Deckers, Hilary Murray, Helen Levin, Hatti Thesen, Betsie Jackes, Julian Blumenthal, and Alet Stone - thanks gallery owner Helena Gerber and framing professional Lelani Mackintosh for their participation and support. The exhibition runs until September 18 and the gallery is open Monday to Fridays from 8am to 4:30pm.
ROCK STAR CUM ROLE MODEL: Zolani Mahola and Freshly Ground performed at Plett’s Barnyard Theatre on September 4 and, as is their wont, wooed the appreciative audience no end. The supercool and ultra-inspirational lead singer also addressed Plett Primary students on Monday, with everyone agreeing that this South African musical luminary is truly a role model of note.
GLORIOUS INDEED: An evening of glorious music was held in Plett on September 7, at the conclusion of an equally glorious spring day. Pianist Albert Combrink, flautist Thomas de Bruyn, and cellist Graham du Plessis of Cape Town-based Trio de Musique played a programme of music that included compositions by, among others, Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart, Georges Bizet, Claude-Michel SchĂśnberg, John Lennon, Camille SaintSaĂŤns, Leonard Bernstein, Ennio Morricone, and Astor Piazzolla. A capacity audience gave the trio a standing ovation at the conclusion of the recital. Those who attended enjoyed delicious canapĂŠs and refreshments, served by the staff of Ouland Royale, led by proprietor, Wilja Reitz. The evening of fine music was generously sponsored by dotsure pet insurance, ClemenGold International, Sweet Petals, and Sky Villa Boutique Hotel. All proceeds from the evening were donated to Plett Animal Welfare Service, whose office bearers organised the event. PAWS strives to improve the lives and condition of domestic animals in all Bitou communities. Winners of hampers on the night were, from left above, Sally Milton, Janine Sarkin and Celia Snowden, with Andries Jordaan of Cape Town-based Sweet Petals, second from right. - Timothy Twidle
Photo: www.ellephoto.co.za
FAIR TRADE AT EMILY MOON: A Hospitality Industry Trade Fair was held at Emily Moon River Lodge in Plett on September 4. Arranged and hosted by Mediaboxx Events, the fair showcased 46 suppliers of services and goods to the Garden Route hospitality industry, ranging from township tours to fine wines, textiles to biodegradable packaging, and wellness to marketing. Mungo Wholesale’s Monique Dokter, Cherilee Windvogel and Merle Nursten, pictured from left at left, said in unison: “There’s a nice buzz and it’s a great venue. Exhibitors have put in lots of effort and the quality of the products on display is of a very high standard.� Such sentiments were endorsed by Mbulelo Vellem of Emzini Tours in Knysna, who enthused: “The fair is beautiful, it’s awesome and it provides the opportunity of meeting a lot of interesting people.� He is pictured at right with Emzini Tours colleague Ella Mapurisa. - Timothy Twidle
HARK, LOUISA! On Saturday night August 31, powerful New Horizons-based singer Louisa Harker, pictured at centre above, glorified the stage with an epic performance. And with the backing vocals of New Life from Knysna, the gospel was truly felt. What started out as an evening song session ended in the H2O dance troupe turning the stage upside down. This stunning display of well-choreographed dancing surprised not only the locals but their visiting guests, too. Says convenor Adam van Rhyner: “Supporting singers got a chance to share the stage and one thing is sure, we can worship our way out of any situation!� Louisa thanks everyone who attended and so assisted in making her solo career soar, and extends a warm welcome to Plett residents to support her forthcoming events.
CRAB HATTERS’ PARTY: The junior, above, and senior classes at Crusty Crab pre-school in the heart of Plett’s CBD fabricated fabulous hats to celebrate spring on the first Monday in September. Teacher Loulette and her team thank all the moms for helping to make this a fun celebration for the happy ‘Crabs’.
XFEOFTEBZ IT’S ORCHID SEASON! Come and see a wonderful display of blooming orchids at the Presbyterian Church Hall in Caledon Street, George from Thursday September to Saturday the 14th. Orchid Society members will have eight individual displays themed Galaxy of Orchids. Their landscape or other displays will be judged and the winner will receive a trophy. Stands are judged according to the interpretation of the theme and variety of orchids used. Individual plants will also be judged by two local orchid judges, plus four learner judges. There will be a champion, a reserve champion and a class winner in each category. Admission is R10 for adults and children under 12 enter free. Raffle tickets will be sold at the door and the prize this year is for a blooming standard-sized Cymbidium with at least two spikes on it. Opening times are 9am to 5pm on Thursday and Friday, and 9am to 2pm on Saturday. Potting demonstrations will be held on Thursday at 10:30 (Cymbidiums) and 3pm (other genre); Friday at 10:30 (other genre), 12 noon (Phalaenopsis) and 3pm (Cymbidiums); and Saturday at 10:30 (Cymbidiums) and 12 noon (Phalaenopsis). These demonstrations are very popular so come early to get a good seat. Potting mix and fertilisers will be sold, while Society members will sell plants and Outeniqua Orchids a selection of blooming Cymbidiums and a variety of other genera. Call Brian on 082 855 9176 or Suzanne on 083 409 3020 for additional information.
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CLASSIFIEDS
11 September 2019
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Plett Animal Welfare Service
ON THE SOAPBOX
11 September 2019
Letters to the Editor
Email: editor@cxpress.co.za - Fax: 044 533 0852 - PO Box 1449, Plett 6600
‘The Drone’ is not alone in suspecting the presence of UFOs on the Route I was reading the August 28 edition of CXPRESS and was particularly interested in the letter under the heading ‘Can anyone identify this mysterious flying object?’ [read it on
page 11 of that issue at www.cxpress.co.za]. I am terribly excited to hear that someone else also saw the lights in the sky! I was so amazed by what I had witnessed
Photographic evidence of the unexplained
that I actually posted it on a national UFO sighting website. Here is what I wrote: “While fishing at Central Beach in Plettenberg Bay on Thursday evening July 25 at about 8:45pm, I saw two lights that were flying horizontally from the north to the south over the horizon of the ocean. They were moving very fast and kept their distance away from each other all the way. “About half an hour later, the lights appeared again, moving from south to north and doing the same thing. It was definitely not shooting
stars because they were moving horizontally, and the lights were not that bright. Could it have been two very fast-moving drones? I’m not sure, but maybe someone else saw it, too.” Please forward my number to the person who wrote the letter, as I would like to find out what exactly they saw. Reinart Nienaber, Plett (We have arranged contact between our two UFO spotters and will be sure to check the site www.uforsa. co.za for feedback from any other sources. Also see the letter and pictures at left. - Eds.)
Stick to the world’s foremost lingua franca for the benefit of our students There has been quite a bit of unexplained aerial phenomena of late. The pic above was taken by Shira Moonwitch (not her real name, but it suits her) at Uplands. The light was visible for many minutes before it disappeared behind the mountains. The other, I found on some local’s Facebook page - not very clear, but certainly not an aircraft… - Roger Davis, Plett
I refer to the article ‘Dictate your own future once you’ve mastered the English tongue’ in your September 4 edition [read it on page 6 of that issue at www.cxpress.co.za]. Hats off to Veronique Claes and Isabelle Brink for their efforts in promoting the English language at primary-school level, particularly to pupils whose home language may not be English. As stated by Veronique, English is the world’s common language; it is also the language of academia and the foremost lingua franca in South Africa. Those politicians who are trying to force socalled ingenious languages into schools and universities as an in-depth study have either misread
or do not understand the world’s requirements. While there may be benefit in learning ‘everyday’ Zulu or Xhosa, e.g. “what is the time?”, “what is your name?”, etc., being bogged down by having to learn the complexities of, say, Zulu grammar at the expense of learning English is short-sighted and a disservice to pupils. If it is deemed necessary to learn a second or third language, it would be far more beneficial to study either Mandarin Chinese, French or Spanish. English spelling, grammar and syntax should be promoted at every opportunity. Now I must go and learn my class better English! Kevin Meineke, Plett
A very personal letter, brimming with veracity… Of all the tall tales and far-fetched cons and phishing tricks we’ve witnessed over two decades of CXpressing, this letter was one of the most amusing… Greetings beloved friend/ email owner [which one is it?], my name is sergeant Sarah Howell. I am an American soldier born in Austin, Texas, USA. Upon my graduation from high school, when I lost my mother and father in a car accident, I volunteered to join the US Army, serving in the military of the 3rd Infantry Division presently in Jarabulus Syria, for training, also helping in stabilising the country against security challenges. With a very desperate need for help, I have decided to contact you for your kind assistance to move the sum of US$10,500,000 (10 million five hundred thousand US Dollars) to you,
if I can be assured that my share will be safe in your care until I complete my service. Some money in various currencies was discovered in boxes at a farmhouse during a rescue operation we conducted in one of the attacks by the terrorists and it was agreed by my colleagues and I that some part of this money be shared among us. The above figure was given to me as my share, and to conceal this kind of money became a problem for me, so with the help of a Turkish doctor, working with Red Cross, I was able to get the box out to a safe location entirely out of trouble spot. He does not know the real content of the box;
I told him that it belongs to an American medical doctor who died in a raid here in Syria, and before giving up, he trusted me to hand over the box to his family. I have now found a much secured way of getting the cash box out of Syria to you for pick-up and I will discuss this with you when I am sure that you are willing to assist me. I am ready to compensate you with 35% of the US$10,500,000 for your assistance. I do not know how long we will remain here, and I have been shot, wounded, and survived two suicide bomb attacks by the special grace of God. Please contact me as soon as possible with the
below email or WhatsApp. Send your details (full name, full address, telephone/cell number, occupation) to my private email armyhowellsarah @gmail.com as to enable us to proceed, because I need to re-register the consignment in your name as the receiver. God bless you. I look forward to your positive response. Sergeant Sarah Howell, Syria (Just in case our readers didn’t catch our drift in the sub above: this is NOT a true story; please do NOT send your details to ‘sergeant Sarah Howell’; and best you DON’T start spending your share of the 10.5-million dollars… - Eds.)
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Read CXPRESS online @ www.cxpress.co.za
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CXPRESS
SPORT & ADVENTURE
11 September 2019
Old car enthusiasts pay tribute to brilliant Borgward HE annual Heritage Tour of the Southern Cape Old Car Club (SCOCC), proudly supported by ReCollection Rides, takes place from September 20-24. SCOCC members hail from George, Mossel Bay, and Oudtshoorn, but the club also boasts members and representatives from as far as Beaufort West and Victoria West. This year they are paying tribute to the Borgward marque in particular, with an Isabella model being part of the touring fleet. A brief history of the Borgward brand
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BELLE ISA: Southern Cape Old Car Club members Japie and Willie van Rooyen acquired their Borgward Isabella in August 2004 - and have never looked back…
Dr Carel Borgward was one of the last independent manufacturers who realised his dream of creating his own cars. The Borgward Company was founded in 1890 and existed until it was controversially declared insolvent in 1961. The brand was revived in the 21st century, with the Stuttgart-based Borgward Group AG designing and marketing cars manufactured in China. Borgward was based in Bremen, Germany. Although the factory was bombed to the ground during World War II, it was rebuilt largely due to the owner’s singleminded determination. The company built four brands of vehicles: Hansa, Goliath, Lloyd and, perhaps most famously, Borgward’s Isabella - after the Spanish version of the owner’s wife’s name, Elizabeth. Production of the Borg-
ward Isabella Coupé began in 1954 and the car made its commercial debut in 1957. This low, short-roofed coupé is generally considered to be Borgward’s masterpiece. Four models were handbuilt, one of which was a gift to his wife who drove it well into her 80s. The company made a foray into motor-racing with a line of 16-valve, 1500 cc sports cars in the late 1950s. These engines were successfully used by some Formula One privateers until 1961. Although the company pioneered a number of technical innovations, like automatic transmissions and air suspension, it had trouble competing with the rising mega-companies like Opel and Volkswagen. Borgward never paid much attention to cost-cutting measures, and when they began experiencing quality problems, the writing was
on the wall. For example, the Lloyd Arabella was a water-cooled boxer engine with frontwheel drive, which was most innovative for its time. But it suffered water-leaks and gearbox glitches even though it was more expensive that its competitors. The company was forced into liquidation by its creditors in 1961. Until his death in 1963, Dr Carl Borgward insisted that the company had been solvent, accusing his competitors of a corporate hit job orchestrated through the press. This assertion was given credence by the fact that all his creditors were paid in full and that there was in excess of 4.5-million Marks left in the business by the time of his death. Visit www.SCOCC.co.za for details about this month’s Heritage Tour or call Pierre Olivier on 082 872 6456.
Vintage car invasion in Storms River Village
ENTER ONLI
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SCHOOLS’ C OMPETITION
September 4 was day three of the 22nd annual Sonder Nonsens Vreetsaam Coastal Tour - when I witnessed what appeared to be a vintage motor invasion in the Tsitsikamma. This seven-day tour averages about 250km per day, and participating cars have to be manufactured by no later than 1960. In this case, the oldest participant was a 1920 model. Also in attendance was a beautiful red 1960 Borgward Isabella Coupé, above at left, that belongs to the oldest Borgward Club in the world which was founded in South Africa in 1960. A few of the other stars of the fleet included the blue Ford complete with luggage rack on the back, above at right, and a couple of stunning Studebakers - in green and burgundy, below. - Watty Watson
Storms River
TIN HOUSE Self-catering accommodation
ENTER NOW AND CELEBRATE SUNFLOWER DAY ON 20 SEPTEMBER 2019 REGISTER AT www.sunflowerfund.org/sunflowerday New TOPES design go on sale in August Got questions? Contact us schools@sunflowerfund.org or 021 701 0661 0800 12 10 82 | www.sunflowerfund.org.za