16 January 2019 by CXpress

16 January 2019

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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The year has now taken off in all seriousness, and readers are urged to brace themselves for the bluest annual day, in terms of emotional wellbeing worldwide, on January 21 (read why the third Monday in January is the most depressing day of the year at www.cxpress.co.za). But this cover pic shows that there may well be light - or a luxury resort hotel - at the end of the tunnel to lift our spirits. Turn to page 9 for background information on Ewald Standerâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s magnificent photo, shot at The Wedge in Plett last Sunday.

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NEWS & VIEWS

16 January 2019

The sun or the moon? Sentiments shared upon countdown to total eclipse… These thoughts on how heavenly bodies make our world go round were recently penned by an esteemed Plett resident, who opted to sign off with ‘Rusted Brain’ as the nom de plume ADDY, which do you like best - the sun or the moon? I heard a little girl ask her father as they walked along the beach, her small hand in his larger one. Swimming costumes glistening with sand. In fairness, Dad did give it some thought and rather cleverly replied. “Well my darling,” he said as he swung her hand backwards and forward, “it’s a bit like me asking you which you like best - ice cream or chocolate?” I never heard the answer as a young boy came charging up shouting: “Come and swim!” The question stuck in my mind, forcing me to recall events and places as I walked down the beach and back. Trying to formulate my own answer. Consider my wider world. My sun and my moon. Sadly, I am not outdoors much at night, but one thing strikes me. Both the sun and moon are enhanced by clouds. Without clouds they become rather ordinary and lose dimension. The best dawns are with clouds, the sun rising over the mountains and shining across the bay. A friend commented: “There was a splendid sunset this morn-

ing.” We smiled and agreed. The best moon rises are full moons coming up over the dark horizon casting a silver pathway over the sea and lagoon, peeking out between clouds - a silver pathway from heaven. The moon is special as she is not always to be seen. A girl flirting with her adorers. Beautiful in every way. Rightly described as feminine. Her craters are freckles and the bigger shadows birth marks. Two memories come to me. Walking a low tide beach with my beloved, moon ducking in and out of moving clouds, when darkness, phosphorescence in every step and each breaking wave. Nothing more glorious. In Namibia, camping in the desert with friends, on the edge of Sossusvlei - a full moon sans clouds. So bright it cast shadows. The silence seeped into our beings and we sat almost inert from awe. Then - and then - a little barking? Barking geckos admiring the moon with us. Delicate sounds in a desert paradise. Never to be forgotten. As humans we had never seen the earth until man visited the moon. Bill Ander’s photo ‘Earth

Rise’, taken in 1968 on the Apollo 8 mission, shows a small, beautiful, delicate blue-green orb hanging in the darkness of space. Here we were given a new perspective of our existence. As much as the moon is shy the wonderful, cheerful sun is bold, full of inflammable optimism, source of our existence. No wonder the ancient Egyptians worshipped Ra, the Greeks Helios, and the Romans Sol - all awesome sun-gods. Soon science will replace other types of energy with sun power and people will worship the sun in new way. Often, years ago, when the beach was much longer and the river mouth far from the rocks, we used to walk its length on the first warm days of spring. The sun would wrap its heat around us until so hot we would swim in our underwear in deep pools at the mouth. I could give no single answer, were the little girl to ask me which I liked better, the sun or the moon. I would merely thank her for the memories As I climbed the hill to my home, these thoughts about the universe and space travel reminded me of an observation

written by Peter Woods, who recently wrote an excellent article in the Eastern Cape Herald titled ‘Science has put responsibility back onto Man’. His theme questions man’s reliance on God in the modern world. As we know more about our universe, perhaps a new type of existentialism may be calling? Consider the poem by Stephen Crane: A man said to the universe, “Sir I exist!” “However,” replied the universe, “The fact has not created in me a sense of obligation.” Add for further consideration a quote from Kurt Vonnegut’s book Cat’s Cradle, with a man asking God about the world: “What is the purpose of all this?” he asked politely. “Everything must have a purpose?” asked God. “Certainly,” said the man. “Then I leave it to you to think of one for all this,” said God. And He went away. These weighty matters, prompted by a small girl’s question, deserved much thought, so I poured a stiff whiskey, sat down and watched tennis on television.

Don’t miss Sunday night’s super blood wolf moon NE of the top astronomy events for 2019 is coming up on the night of January 20 into the morning of the 21st with a total eclipse of the moon. There’s lots of hype around this one, as it assumes the meme of ‘SuperBloodWolf Moon’ eclipse on the internet. A full moon in January has

been called a ‘wolf moon’ ever since colonial times, which explains the ‘wolf’ part. Lunar eclipses are amazing to watch unfold, making for much more leisurely spectating than the swift passage of a total solar eclipse. And while you certainly can use binoculars or a telescope, the best way to

watch a total lunar eclipse is with the naked eye. The umbral phases for the eclipse span over three hours in duration, and totality lasts just a second shy of a one-hour two-minute period. North and South America will see the eclipse in its entirety late in the evening, while Western Europe

and the northwest of Africa will see the eclipse in progress at local sunrise and moonset. Various sites will advise on the best time to do your stargazing in the Southern Cape (e.g. https://www.time and date. com/eclipse/in/south-africa/ george). Finally, remember to watch with friends!

NEWS & VIEWS

16 January 2019

CXPRESS

Activists plan protests at circus venue, but McLaren claims its animals are ‘part of the family’ Just short of 4,000 Plettenberg Bay residents and visitors have signed a petition against a visit by a well-known circus this week, one of their main concerns being the belief that circus animals endure ‘inhumane’ conditions - YOLANDÉ STANDER reports HE petition was started by local residents after it came to light that McLaren Circus had been given

the green light to perform three shows in Plett from January 18 to 20. At the time of going to

print, 3,667 people had thrown their weight behind the petition and animal rights group Ban Animal

Plett Animal Welfare Service adds its roar

NOT FOR KNYSNA THEN, NOT FOR PLETT NOW: This image depicts a community protest before the ban of McLaren Circus in Knysna some years ago

N a statement headlined ‘The big lie behind the big top’, circulated electronically to hundreds of recipients, local animal-welfare advocates emphasise the notion that the circus constitutes “family fun for everyone except the animals”. Animal behaviourist Dr Desmond Morris is quoted thus in a quest to gain support for petitioners against the three-day performance schedule in Plett. “The idea that it is funny to see wild animals coerced into acting like clumsy humans, or thrilling to see powerful beasts reduced to cringing cowards by a whipcracking trainer, is primitive and medieval. It stems from the outdated idea that we are superior to other species and have the right to hold dominion over them.” PAWS expresses its disappointed to see that McLaren Circus is being allowed to perform in Plettenberg Bay this weekend.

“This circus was prevented from appearing in Knysna some years ago, after demonstrations against their use of wild animals, and now they are coming to our town. They have faced demonstrations all over South Africa, including in Despatch in the Eastern Cape (see front page of Weekend Post, Sunday January 13). “McLaren Circus is the last to use wild animals in South Africa and it goes against the growing international prohibition of animals in circuses. “David McLaren’s repeated defence that the animals are ‘pampered, well-cared for and loved’ is not borne out by the well-documented facts and extensive international and local research into what it takes to get an animal to ‘perform’.” The statement further bemoans the fact that training, for obvious reasons, takes place behind closed doors. “Cruelty is inherent in such displays, as the brutal train-

ing methods used to maintain a position of dominance involve beating animals with various objects, use of bull hooks, whips, spears, electric prods and other tools to intentionally cause pain and injury in order to force animals into unnatural behaviour that results in extreme anxiety and stress. “Food deprivation is also used. In addition to the cruel training, they are subjected to constant travelling and have to live permanently in discomfort in confined spaces.” It is finally claimed that SA legislation for the protection of animals needs strengthening. “While it may be legal for circuses to feature animals, it does not make it morally defensible.” PAWS calls on Plett residents to boycott the circus by joining its picket at the rugby club on Friday and Saturday from 6-7pm, and on Saturday and Sunday from 2-3pm.

Male victim and female hostage unknown to knife-wielding Crags attacker Yolandé Stander LETT police managed to defuse a hostage situation in The Crags last week after a man held a woman at knifepoint. Plettenberg Bay Crime Prevention Association (PBCPA) operations head Otto Olivier said they were alerted to a situation at a local accommodation establishment in The Crags on January 8 where a man had allegedly taken a woman hostage. Olivier said it was believed that the incident had been

sparked after the alleged hostage taker attacked a man, who was unknown to him, at the establishment. “He stabbed the man several times with a knife,” Olivier said. He added that the man then grabbed a woman, who he too did not know, and held a knife to her throat demanding to speak to authorities. “The police were contacted and showed up on the scene shortly thereafter.

They spoke to him after which the man let the woman go and handed himself over to police.” The injured man was taken to hospital in a private vehicle. Among those who responded were Plett Security Rapid Response, Plett K9, police, the Wittedrift neighbourhood watch group, the Crags support group, the N2 neighbourhood watch group, and several PBCPA security companies.

Trading (BAT) South Africa had organised protests outside the circus venue, Bitou Rugby Club, on each show date. BAT director Kathey Raffray said McLaren’s was the only circus in South Africa still using wild animals as part of their performances, and added that they were against it from an animal rights perspective. “While animal welfare is very important, it looks only at issues such as whether the animals are cared for or not. We are against animals being used for human entertainment and financial gain,” Raffray said. She added that the McLaren Circus animals had been born in captivity. “This, however, does not mean they are domesticated. It takes hundreds of years for the domesticating

process to take effect. Their wild instincts still remain.” Raffray said the aim of BAT was to create awareness around animal rights. According to the petition it has been proven that having animals perform in circuses is not only inhumane, but that these animals are subjected to the “worst form of animal cruelty”. “No lion or tiger willingly performs tricks for human amusement without undergoing severe suffering and punishment to achieve obedience. “Despite circuses claiming that the animals live in excellent conditions, this is simply not true. They live and travel in atrocious conditions,” the petition read. McLaren Circus spokesman Karl Hildebrandt said they adhered to the “highest standard of animal wel-

fare” for all their performing animals. “We maintain a personal bond with our animals, work with them on a daily basis, and they do form part of our circus family,” Hildebrandt said. He added that animal cruelty was a crime and that they were against it. “Just about every SPCA in South Africa monitors us when we travel in their district. The SPCA may oppose animals in entertainment, but they are there to ensure our animals’ welfare is at the correct standards. “The outcry is understandable, since McLaren Circus hasn’t been to Plettenberg Bay in many years. “These animal activists are usually informed through social media on posts not about McLaren Circus, and have done very little to no research on our circus.”

CXPRESS

NEWS & VIEWS

16 January 2019

Of Odland picnics, South African beaches, and the public slaughter of sheep WANDISILE SEBEZO bemoans the double standards that prevail throughout our beautiful land

O doubt the tragic incidents that happened around Plett’s Odland picnic area at the start of the 2018/19 season were unfortunate, and have sparked an outcry from one section of the Plett community. However, many of us are not convinced that this outrage is truly based on concerns over safety; rather, it seems fuelled by a sinister agenda to block the black population of our town from enjoying themselves in that particular spot. Isn’t this exactly what the affluent residents of Clifton attempted to do? Every year during the festive season, locals from Kwano, New Horizons, Kranshoek, Qolweni and other black areas flock to the Odland picnic area to celebrate the year that was. Heaven knows, it’s the one time we really get to relax and enjoy ourselves that close to the beach. We’re not even on the beach, but close enough for our presence to be a nuisance and an irritation. It was only in 1989 - a mere 30 years ago - that SA beaches were opened

to all South Africans. Unfortunately in most coastal towns, Plett included, there seems to be a concerted effort by some to preserve our beaches for a select few. This is highly reminiscent of the pre-1989 era. Every time we attempt to have some beachy fun, we have to hear the noise about safety, cleanliness, tourists complaining, the town’s image being on the line, and all sorts of unfounded reasons why the natives should not set foot. It’s the same tiring excuse every year. Hence, we doubt the so-called outrage about safety. Year in year out, Plett Rage kids flock to this town and throughout their stay cause havoc and chaos, but no one is saying anything about that - go figure. White South Africans should stop being hypocrites. There’s absolutely nothing wrong with drinking in the picnic area. I have personally imbibed there on occasions, and plan to continue doing so. We are a responsible people and the misbehaviour of a few individuals must never be used as motive for

racial affronts. Well-meaning and reasonable people should be calling for law enforcement agencies to at all material times show visibility and arrest drunk drivers to maintain public safety. To say that the Odland picnic area must be closed and that alcohol must not be allowed there is really misguided and smacks of institutionalised racism that says certain areas are reserved for certain people. I have over the years suggested that the municipality enforce certain rules: don’t allow any glasses or bottles, only plastic and tins; no under-aged children after certain times, and so on. As for slaughtering on the beach or elsewhere: we’re not going to explain ourselves, our rituals, or our way of life. The insensitivity of so-called “animal-rights activists” who disrespect our culture is telling, as they’re nowhere to be found when certain people kill animals for sport, hunting for trophies in game reserves owned by their white counterparts. Do these activists know that invoking “public

health” is a time-tested strategy for urban segregation? In Joburg, for example, public health rationales supported both the early expulsion of black workers from Brickfields, and the razing of Sophiatown in the 1950s. Thus, describing black

people’s customs as a filthy menace to public health is a product of a racist ideology. Steve Biko complained that white liberals spent too much time convincing black people that they’re not racist, as opposed to fighting racism itself. I have

asked before in this very paper: What are white South Africans doing to halt racism in their own circles? I’m hoping that in 2019 we will write less about that which divides us, and more about common-interest matters.

Safeguard your family against diarrhoea and dehydration this summer ITH summer comes the heightened risk of your child contracting diarrhoea. More than 430 children under the age of five have been treated for diarrhoea without dehydration at health facilities in Garden Route District during November and December, and a further 127 have been admitted to hospital. W-Cape Government Health’s annual Paediatric Surge Season (PSS) is from November to end May - a time during which health facilities see an increased number of patients suffering from gastroenteritis. “Our staff are on high alert for patients, especially kids under the age of five, that show signs of dehydration,” said Dr Helise Schumann, Government Health director of the Garden Route and Central Karoo District. “Dehydration due to gastro remains one of the main causes of illness and death in children younger than five. We have Oral Hydration Solution corners in all our facilities, while portable water bags have been distributed to crèches where access to water is limited. “Integrated diarrhoeal health messaging at our baby clinics result in increased awareness, while we have also created ‘fast lanes’

for babies and toddlers with diarrhoea at our facilities,” said Dr Schumann. Causes and prevention Diarrhoea is a highly-infectious virus that thrives in hot weather; transmitted by flies, it preys on babies and young kids. Children who are malnourished, those who have not been immunised and perhaps have other illnesses are far more likely to contract gastro and develop fatal complications as a result. Some of the leading causes of diarrhoea are dirty water, dirty toilets, unwashed hands, bottle feeding, uncontained waste (illegal dumping), contaminated food, and flies. It might not always be possible, but we should always aim to keep our hands, food, cooking utensils, and toilets clean. Dustbins must be closed, animal droppings collected and thrown away, and food scrapings, used nappies and sanitary towels put into a plastic bag, knotted and thrown into a dustbin. Remember to wash your hands after completing these tasks. It is important to maintain a high level of hygiene to ensure your family is gastro free this season. An oral rehydration solution will replenish lost body fluids. Using a clean 1-litre bottle, mix 1-litre of

cooled boiled water with half a teaspoon of salt and eight teaspoons of sugar. Mix well. Take the solution along should you need to take your child to the clinic so that your child does not dehydrate on the way. If your child gets diarrhoea, check them for these signs of dehydration: • Dry or sticky mouth • Few or no tears when crying • Lack of urine, or only a very small amount of dark yellow urine • Dry, cool skin • Tiredness and irritability • Dizziness • Headache and stomach ache • Thirstiness Statistics per sub-district • In Bitou, eight kids were treated for gastro and in Knysna 47, of which 10 required admission to hospital. • In George, 122 kids were treated, of which 30 required admission to hospital. • In Mossel Bay, 93 kids, of which 21 required admission to hospital. • In Hessequa, 12 kids, of which four required admission to hospital. • In Oudtshoorn, 109 kids, of which 46 required admission to hospital. • In Kannaland, 44 kids, of which 16 required admission to hospital. Visit https://www.westerncape.gov.za/first-1000days/ for additional information.

VACANCY - Finance Department Finance Manager’s position available at The Knysna Elephant Park Applicant must possess: - B.Compt Accounting Degree or Equivalent - SAIPA/SAICA articles (will be an advantage) - 3+ years’ experience in the full accounting function of a business. - Must have Pastel and Payroll Experience - Financial reporting - Income Statements/Trial Balances/ Management reports - Bank Reconciliations/Payroll Management/VAT Submissions Email CV and a covering letter to vacancy@knysnaelephantpark.co.za Please use the position you are applying for in the subject line. Closing date: 25 January 2019 If you have not heard from us by 30 January, consider your application unsuccessful.

NEWS & VIEWS

16 January 2019

FINAL EXAM RESULTS KEEP POURING IN...

Congratulations to Oakhill matric class of 2018 AKHILL’S Class of 2018 has achieved some wonderful results, both individually and collectively. We are delighted to announce that this year every matric candidate achieved a Bachelor’s Degree pass. The 2018 matrics have produced their best set of results in the FET phase of school and the highest distinctions per candidate on release, as well as the highest composite subject average at Oakhill over the last four years. All top achievers are listed here, but special mention must be made of Veda Vosloo, Luc van den Han-

del, Leila Turner and Zoë Venter. In the final exams Veda achieved seven distinctions (English, Afrikaans, Mathematics, Accounting, Life Sciences, Physical Sciences, Life Orientation) and Luc, Leila and Zoë, six each (see subjects below). We congratulate these pupils, along with Jason Matter, Mia Venter, Liam Watson and Neena de Klerk, as well as Jamie Hattingh and Sven Botha, all of whom achieved overall aggregates over 80%. Six Distinctions • Luc van den Handel (English, Mathematics, Physical Sciences,

Information Technology, Visual Arts, Life Orientation), as well as Oakhill top achiever for Advanced Programme Mathematics • Leila Turner (English, Mathematics, Dramatic Arts, Life Sciences, Physical Sciences, Life Orientation) • Zoë Venter (English, Afrikaans, Mathematical Literacy, Business Studies, Visual Arts, Life Orientation) Five Distinctions • Neena de Klerk (English, Afrikaans, Business Studies, Visual Arts, Life Orientation) • Jason Matter (Mathematics, Accounting, History, Physical Sciences,

Greenwood Bay students rock final exams of their study Actuarial Science at Aaliyah Omar wrote five subjects school careers will UCT this year. and attained four As, also achievELL done to all our Grade 12 students who wrote the Cambridge AS Level Exams - of 14 students who wrote the exam in 2018, 11 received university exemption. Two students also wrote their A Levels, which is an extremely tough set of exams, so definitely not for the faint-hearted. Collectively, the GBC Grade 12s attained 21 As. Our top three students were Lifa Sethosa, Hendrik Booysen, and Aaliyah Omar. Top AS achiever Lifa Sethosa wrote five subjects and received five As, also achieving an amazing 98% for Mathematics. Lifa was head student, Dux pupil, and also an avid runner. He

Be sure to keep your eyes peeled for this name - there is no doubt we will be hearing about Lifa’s achievements in future. Hendrik Booysen wrote four AS level subjects and three more at A level, scoring six As and one B. Hendrik achieved this all in one year while living more than 1,000km from his home base in Gauteng. Looking after himself, Hendrik also competed in hockey and athletics at district level. He is a positive, dedicated student and aspiring leader, and on his way to study Aeronautical Engineering overseas. We know he will make a success of anything he applies himself to.

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Technology, Life Orientation) • Annie-Rose Thomson (English, Mathematics, Life Sciences) Oakhill has three students in the top 1% of candidates nationally and we congratulate them wholeheartedly. Jordan Shrosbree and Danté Signorelli achieved this accolade in Computer Applications Technology and Kiara Smith in Mathematical Literacy. A number of other members of the grade achieved either one or two distinctions. Alec Yardley improved his overall aggregate from prelims to final exams by a full 12%. Pupils recognised for practical work were Leila Turner who earned the top mark for her Dramatic Arts, and Zoë Venter who earned top honours in Visual Arts. (See the advert on page 6 for additional information.)

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ing 98% in Mathematics. She will be taking a year off to explore Islamic Studies and then plan to pursue a career in Engineering. Aaliyah is a polite and kind young lady who is able to hold her own on the soccer field. We really enjoyed having her at GBC, and wish her well with her studies and future. Congratulations to Miriam Hubner, who wrote three A levels and managed to get two As and a B. Not an easy task - well done, Miriam! We once again congratulate all our Grade 12s. You were an amazing class, and will be missed at GBC. Good luck for the next step in your lives. (See the advert on page 6 for additional information.)

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CXPRESS

16 January 2019

SCHOOL NEWS

BUSINESS

16 January 2019

CXPRESS

Great service celebrated by top Re/Max estate agents The team at RE/MAX Plettenberg Bay provided this update on the year that was and its brightest stars E at RE/MAX love to celebrate positive experiences and achievements by our agents. We are a close-knit family who support one another in our common goal to give the best possible service to our clients. We also like to play together, as we did at the beautiful home of one of our agents, Michelle Solomon, when we celebrated 2018 at our annual Christmas party. Every year, we offer an incentive prize for the agent with the highest number of sales for the year. In order to qualify for the prize, the agents

HARD WORK ALWAYS PAYS OFF: Incentive prize winner 2018 Sally Searle is flanked by Cheryl and Graham Anley during the annual RE/MAX Christmas party

need to meet certain criteria throughout the year. This award is handed out at our annual Christmas party. The 2018 award was given to Sally Searle, and was richly deserved. Sally worked very hard throughout 2018 and in spite of ill health early in the year, she toiled tirelessly to achieve her goal. Another of our agents, Bruce Noble, achieved the highest value of sales for the year - many congrats! We wish all of our friends and clients a wonderful 2019. (See the advert on page 12 for this week’s listing.)

Credit watchdog issues public warning against fake loan scams HE National Credit Regulator (NCR) last week warned consumers to be wary of fake credit providers who attempt to entrap South Africans in loan scams. “These scams typically target those who are in distressed financial circumstances and looking for a loan, using slogans such as ‘blacklisted’ or ‘debt review clients welcome’,” says Jacqueline Peters, manager of Investigations and Enforcement at the NCR. The increase in these types of scams comes at a time when credit approvals have decreased and consumers are finding themselves to be financially stretched after the festive season. “This is the time to be more vigilant, as it is in

vulnerable situations that we should make wise decisions. The National Credit Act prohibits all advertisements for credit from utilising these prohibited terms, and consumers should avoid engaging with any credit provider who advertises in this manner,” she adds. The fake credit providers would generally use the details of legitimate credit providers and attempt to make one believe that they are endorsed by government agencies such as the NCR. Look out for the typical signs to prevent being misled - below is some general advice to assist in avoiding scams: • Treat all unexpected calls, emails and SMS messages with caution.

Don’t assume they’re genuine, even if the person seems to know some basic information about you, such as your name. • Look out for the name on all emails, in case it is a ‘clone company’ pretending to be a real credit provider. • Do not pay any upfront fees to release a loan, as the National Credit Act does not allow credit providers to request upfront payments for the release of loans. If the ‘credit provider’ makes this demand, cease to engage any further and immediately report it to the relevant authorities, such as the NCR or SAPS. • Be aware of platforms and hidden fees included for sourcing a loan. • Don’t be pressured into

acting quickly. A genuine credit provider won’t mind waiting if you want time to think and compare the costs of credit by using a quotation. • Do not engage with credit providers who don’t conduct affordability assessments. • Never give false or incorrect information about your financial affairs on a credit application. Always disclose your obligations and living expenses fully. • Never borrow from an unregistered credit provider - if the proposal sounds too good to be true, it usually is. If unsure about the legitimacy of a credit provider or agreement, contact the NCR on 011 554 2600/2700 or visit www. ncr.org.za for details.

Millennials make best use of tax-free saving options ORN between 1981 and 1997, millennials have a significantly higher appetite for tax-free savings accounts than the average banking customer - this according to FNB data, which point to the fact that millennial customers make up a large proportion of consumers holding such accounts. Tax-free savings were introduced by National Treasury in 2015 as an incentive to encourage household savings. In 2017, Treasury increased the maximum savings contribution per year from R30,000 to R33 000, with a lifetime

limit of R500,000. Himal Parbhoo, CEO of FNB Cash Investments for Retail, says for a consumer base that’s not necessarily known for its perennial savings habits, the trend in taxfree savings gives an indication of improving financial habits of young South Africans. “Society is accustomed to a belief that young people are perpetual spenders with little to no savings appetite. However, our stats suggest that young people are aware of the incremental benefits of being frugal with their money.

“It’s our view that the advent of digital innovation in the distribution of savings solutions is playing an effective role in providing easier access to millennials as well as the broader population,” he says. Here’s an overview of how tax-free savings accounts work: • You don’t have to pay income tax, dividends tax or capital gains tax on the returns. • You benefit from compound interest the longer you keep your money in the accounts. • Parents can invest on behalf of their minor child.

• A minor child can have their own or individual annual or lifetime limits. “With VAT having gone up late last year, consumers should be taking advantage of every opportunity to get some reprieve from the tax burden. Young people, in particular, have the benefit of time to build a savings culture to attain financial independence. “While cash savings vehicles are convenient for short-term needs, it’s important for this group of customers to also consider long-term investment options when looking at taxfree investment accounts,” concludes Parbhoo.

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INTERVAL

16 January 2019

Thoughts on learning and teaching… • The human brain is special. It starts working as soon as you get up and it doesn’t stop until you get to school. - Milton Berle • All right everyone, line up alphabetically according to your height. - Casey Stengel • A child educated only at school is an uneducated child. - George Santayana • Education is what remains after one has forgotten what one has learned in school. - Albert Einstein • In school, you’re taught a lesson and then given a test. In life, you’re given a test that teaches you a lesson. - Tom Bodett • Finish last in your league and they call you idiot. Finish last in medical school and they call you doctor. - Abe Lemons • Education can get you

the only thing that really matters in today’s world - an assigned parking space. - Gene Perret • It is impossible for a man to learn what he thinks he already knows. - Epictetus • No wonder the teacher knows so much; she has the book. - Edgar Watson Howe • Education is a progressive discovery of our own ignorance. - Will Durant • When a teacher calls a boy by his entire name, it definitely means trouble. - Mark Twain • School is learning things you don’t want to know, surrounded by people you wish you didn’t know, while working toward a future you don’t know will ever come. Dave Kellett

Sport and politics NCE again the matter of politics in sport has reared its ugly head with the new rules for this year announced by the South African Ruby Board for the Currie Cup. Effective January 1, the system prescribes the following non-negotiable quotas:

• Western Province must include at least five players of colour • The Sharks must include five Indian players • The Cheetahs, five English-speaking players • The Lions, at least five Afrikaans-speaking players • The Blue Bulls, at least five players...

What’s up, Doc? Food for thought A man walks into the psychiatrist’s office with a zucchini up his nose, a cucumber in his left ear, and a breadstick in his right ear. Looking rather worried, he asks: “Doctor, what is wrong with me?” The psychiatrist replies: “You are not eating properly.”

The name game The heart specialist was operating on the patient when he suddenly said: “Don’t worry, Adam. This is a minor operation. Everything will be all right.” The patient replied: “Thank you, Doctor, but my name is Jose.” The heart specialist said: “I know that. Adam is my name.”

Golfer: “You must be the world’s worst caddy!” Caddy: “No, that would be too much of a coincidence.”

The wisdom of George Carlin • Weather forecast for tonight: dark. • Don’t sweat the petty things and don’t pet the sweaty things. • Think of how stupid the average person is, and realise half of them are stupider than that. • Have you ever noticed that anybody driving slower than you is an idiot, and anyone going faster than you is a maniac? • Here’s all you have to know about men and women: women are crazy, men are stupid. And the main reason women are crazy is that men are stupid. • Most people work just hard enough not

to get fired and get paid just enough money not to quit. • Those who dance are considered insane by those who cannot hear the music. • Try explaining Hitler to a kid. • If you try to fail, and succeed, which have you done? • Life is not measured by the number of breaths we take, but by the moments that take our breath away. • That’s why they call it the American Dream, because you have to be asleep to believe it. • Laugh often, long and loud. Laugh until you gasp for breath.

SOCIAL SCENE

16 January 2019

CXPRESS

Photos: ewaldstanderphotography

THIS IS HOW EWALD GOT HIS SHOT: The perfect shot is often said to be ‘one in a million’. But the photo adorning this week’s cover - taken at The Wedge on January 13 - was literally one in 1,500. While bodyboarding, local photographer Ewald Stander noticed that some of the waves lined up perfectly with Plett’s iconic Beacon Island Hotel. He immediately rushed back to the beach, put his board down, grabbed his GoPro camera and headed back out. While waiting for the perfect wave to break, he also captured the shapes that waves made above and below the water’s surface. After several attempts, he managed to capture that perfect shot - but not without being pummelled by the waves on numerous occasions. The pics above were but two of the 1.5K-odd shots captured by his GoPro that day, and are equally soft on the eye. PS: If you read here and know who the unidentified bodyboarder at left is, email editor@cxpress.co.za to share your information.

People, places & events KNYSNA PLETT CONCERT SERIES presents pianist Mariangela Vacatello, at left, on Monday February 4, thus kicking off its musical year with a stunning lady performing wonderful music. Mariangela studied at the Royal Academy of Music in London and the Milan Conservatory and has raked in awards from the age of 17, propelling her onto the world stage as a soloist. She has been described as ‘having technique in spades’! If you are studying music or just love listening to the piano being played superbly, you can’t afford to miss this concert, which will include works by Beethoven and Chopin. The venue, as always, is Knysna Dutch Reformed Church hall in Fichat Street. Tickets are sold the door from 6:45pm (adults pay R150 and scholars R30) and the show starts at 7:30pm sharp.

HAILING THE MOST RECENT KING: With The Wedge stealing the spotlight on the cover of this edition, CXPRESS dredged up these images of an earlyseason prize-giving affair at The Bungalow, when King of the Wedge 2018 Riaan Wiener received his well-deserved crown with a victorious hoot and a howl, at right. Roger Trebilcock of Surfing Life, next to The Table in Plett’s Main Street, handed over the boards and related loot that Riaan and several other winners scored for their wave prowess. A host of local bodyboarders and their surfing mates and families had a jorl at this lovely venue on Hobie Beach. At right, MC Lee-Roy Dunn flashes one of his showstopping grins.

Photos: Zandalee le Roux

CXPRESS

Paws

Plett Animal Welfare Service

16 January 2019

CLASSIFIEDS

ON THE SOAPBOX

16 January 2019

Letters to the Editor

Email: editor@cxpress.co.za - Fax: 044 533 0852 - PO Box 1449, Plett 6600

Public gratitude expressed to one of Bitou’s best

BEYOND DUTY’S CALL: Municipal Law Enforcement officer Agcobile Nofemele ensured that local residents and visitors to the Hobie Beach area were spared the traffic carnage that prevailed during previous festive seasons

During the festive season, the parking and traffic situation at Hobie Beach - where The Bungalow and Old Rectory hotel are located - has always been a nightmare. This year, however, careful planning was done by Bitou’s law enforcement department and they stationed a police officer at the location every day. The officer, Agcobile Nofemele, was very thoughtful and considerate to both the local residents and beachgoers. Officer Nofemele organised the mass of cars arriving and leaving perfectly and eliminated the chaos that we experienced in previous years. I would like to thank him and congratulate him publicly for going beyond the call of duty. We are very fortunate to have this calibre of public official working for the department. Neill Rayne, Plett

Electricity meters’ error allowance renders allegations of overcharge null and void I read the letter by Len Meiring on “the collective municipal overcharging” with interest, but in my opinion feel that it’s a bit of a red herring, or storm in a teacup, for the following reasons: • The calculated overcharge of R2.16 in an account totalling R1,083.77 represents a variation of 0.2% and assumes thus that the electricity meter measuring the energy consumption is 100% accurate. This is unfortunately not the case, as any measurement contains an error, and domestic energy meters are considered compliant when their accuracy is not worse than 2%. This means that for his consumption of 691 units, the meter could have registered 14 units over or under the actual consumption and still be compliant. In the worst case, this measuring tolerance will

translate into a much larger account variance of possibly up to R26.60, which would dwarf the R2.16. The quoted financial discrepancy is more than 10 times less than the allowed measurement error of the electricity meter and is therefore irrelevant. • Furthermore, as far as I know the officially published Nersa-approved Final Tariffs for Bitou Municipality give the cost per unit of electricity in the different tariff blocks to five decimal places (for example R1.59490) and if all these decimal places are used in the municipal account calculation, the R2.16 difference will most likely disappear. I will be interested to read the Bitou reply when you publish it in your next edition. Henry Timme, Plett (Thanks for putting pen to paper, Henry. Read Bitou’s response below. - Eds.)

Bitou municipal electricity charge a question of decimals, not daylight robbery We write in response to the CXPRESS media enquiry and subsequent to the letter sent by one of our consumers, Mr Len Meiring, with regards to the allegation that his account was being overcharged [see ‘Collective municipal overcharging may well amount to many thousands of rands’ on page 15 of the January 9 edition at www.cxpress.co.za]. We would like to state

Units

Rate

Total

VAT

Charged incl VAT

0.8481

42.4050

6.36

48.7658

300

1.1016

330.4800

49.57

380.0520

250

1.5913

397.8250

59.67

457.4988

1.9076

173.5916

26.04

199.6303

that Bitou Municipality is not overcharging the consumer, and that the use of nearest decimals might be the issue. According to Nersa [National Energy Regulator of South Africa],

the tariff for 0-50kWh is R0.8481, while the consumer account in question only reflects a cost of R0.84. The municipality uses the full price as per approved tariffs, not the two

decimals as reflected in the municipal account. Please see the tariff illustration for ease of reference: • 0-50 kWh - 0.84810 • 51- 350 kWh - 1.10160 • 351-600 kWh - 1.59130 • >600 kWh - 1.90760 The tariffs are as per the graph above. We hope that Mr Meiring finds this explanation in order. James Sijama obo Bitou Municipality, Plett

Donors and sponsors stick smiles on the faces of the children for the past Pine Trees children and mothers seven years) On behalf of the Pine Trees Community Outreach Project, I would like to extend profound gratitude for contributions received towards our annual Christmas party, hosted on December 22 for all the underprivileged children of Pine Trees in Plett. Donations and sponsorships came in from left, right and centre, enabling us to put a smile on the faces of many children again last year. Thanks are due to the following businesses and individuals: • Hunters Hotels (sweets) • Coca Cola South Africa (cool drinks) • The Print Shop (printouts of pictures) • Kim Hough (donations in kind) • Checkers Plettenberg Bay (voucher) • Plett Tourism (branded bags)

• Karin of The Market Square (Christmas wrapping) • Che Raschendorf, and Suzette Schutte and her family (Christmas boxes

for the children) • Aquila Stadtherr (the photographer who took such lovely pictures) • Marie Morley (for the CD that has entertained

HAPPIEST DAY: These pics tell the story of a fabulous time had at the Christmas party - Photos: Aquila Stadtherr

• The Ice Man (ice cubes) And to those not included here, please don’t feel offended - you all feature on the thank-you list in our hearts. I don’t know what we would’ve done without you guys. We are glad to say that your highly-appreciated contributions went so far that we even managed to steal the mothers’ hearts by giving them each a little present on the day. The event was a huge success and everyone had a fabulous time. For more information about the organisation, do not hesitate to contact me on 073 513 5119 or at pinetreesproject@gmail. com and please visit our Facebook page. Shaun Terblanche Pine Trees Community Outreach project manager, Plett

CXPRESS

Knackered Chef’s fishy platter takes the Christmas cake We tried out that recommended fish platter for our Christmas lunch as suggested in your final edition of 2018 [check out the recipe by Jeeves on page 31 of the December 31 issue at www. cxpress.co.za], instead of the traditional fare - turkey, gammon and the like, which we had cold instead on the 26th. The fish mixed grill was a huge success, with prawns,

mussels, calamari and a variety of fish. Our family from Australia was here and they were blown over too, saying they would do the same for Christmas in Oz this year. They intend to also introduce this novel concept to their friends because, just like in South Africa, all types of fish are available Down Under. Trish and Maurice, Knysna

CXPRESS

16 January 2019

SPORT & ADVENTURE

Running for fun bolsters Plett’s sea rescue coffers A

great jorl was had by all who participated in the NSRI Fun Run on Sunday December 30. Sponsored by RE/MAX and Sportscentre Plett, the event was divided into two sections: a 10km run and a 5km walk. The runners set off at 7am with the walkers starting 10 minutes later. There was much puffing and sweating but the mood was jovial and it was a happy and successful fundraiser, with 340 people participating in this annual event that is now a regular on the December holiday calendar. Says Cheryl Anley of RE/MAX: “This

year R46,000 was collected for NSRI Station 14. Our local crews do such a fantastic job, saving lives and keeping our coastal areas safe for the residents and all the thousands of holidaymakers who flock to our beaches. “All sea rescue members are volunteers who give up their time - which could be spent at their places of business, or with their loved ones - to keep us safe. Some Plett members have been offering their services for as long as 40 years. “We at RE/MAX feel privileged to be able to assist this wonderful organisation, albeit in a small way,” concludes Anley.

VOLUNTEERING FOR THE VOLUTEERS: The RE/MAX crew, seated behind registration tables and clad in their company red, offered their time and skill to organise a late-December race that benefited Plett NSRI Station 14

START OF THE RUN: The first of two races - a 10km run and a 5km walk, which saw a total of 340 participants - is ready to roll on December 30 from its starting point behind Plett Surf Lifesaving Club

Storms River

TIN HOUSE Self-catering accommodation

Diversity a key feature of TransCape 2019, which now kicks off in George OVING the start for the Liberty TransCape MTB Encounter from Knysna to George has resulted in a slightly shorter overall distance, but has enabled route director Wayne Collett to make significant improvements. The seven-stage mountain-bike race, powered by Volvo, takes place from February 2 to 9 and ends at La Couronne Wine Estate in Franschhoek. Previously the overall route, which started in Knysna, was over 650km; this year’s riders will embark on a 591km journey through some of the most popular and scenic trails in South Africa. Collett said the decision to start in George not only allowed route planners to bring in a strong element of diversity to the stages, but also enabled them to incorporate some exciting new sections. “Previously, the first three days were characterised by relatively long stages because of the overall distance to be covered,” he said. “But now there is no stage much over 100km, which means it’s a little easier. Not having to do those long stages allowed us to add different elements to the routes.” By starting in George they were able to add terrain diversity by bringing the Klein Karoo back into the mix, said Collett. “The Klein Karoo was not part of last year’s route, but the new start means you are quickly introduced into three distinct sections on the opening day. “First you have the coastal character of the George region, before going over Montagu Pass, which provides a different element altogether. “Once you have crossed the mountain, you descend into the Karoo and that, of course, offers something else again with its semiarid conditions.” After a stretch through the Karoo, he said the diversity was extended on stage three when the riders would go from the Karoo

over Rooiberg Pass and back towards more coastal-like conditions. “From there they will roll through various farmlands of wheat and dairy before hitting some single-track sections in the last stage as they traverse the Cape Winelands to the finish at La Couronne. “We have really tried to capture every biome from George to Franschhoek, which includes coastal conditions, indigenous rain forest, and the dry Karoo.” With the corporate world a big target market for one of South Africa’s most luxurious events, Collett said they had designed the route to ensure nobody “had to break their back”. However, he was quick to add that “easier” did not mean it was “easy”. “We have tried to keep every stage to under 100km,” he said. “There are some just over that distance but, if you are well prepared, it is something everyone should be able to handle.” He did have a warning for the cyclists, though, in terms of the weather. “You really need to expect everything and anything in this race,” he said, “because that is what you are likely to get over the seven days. “For example, we did some trial rides last month and from battling 40-degree heat in one section, the next day we were facing wind and driving rain, riding with thick jackets. “So the weather can play a major part in the challenge the race presents and riders need to be prepared for that.” Collett added that the only technical section would come in the final stage, when half the route was devoted to single-track. “It is not so hectic that a rider might have to push for kilometres, but there are some hairpins that can test you. But it is really a case of perhaps hopping off you bike for 10 or 20 metres to negotiate a switchback and then you will be able to ride again.” Visit www.transcapemtb.co.za for addi-