16 September 2015
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
Plett policeman praised p3
Respecting our elders p7
Festival updates
Photo: Ultimate Braai Master
p10
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Turn to page 5 for a first-hand account by Wilderness local Sacha Buchanan, left, who recently returned from a twomonth road trip with her best buddy Claudia D’Ambrosio Grobler, during which SA’s definitive outdoors cooking show, ‘Ultimate Braai Master’ was shot in 13 locations across the land
Go Sacha!
10 000 free copies of cxpress distributed along the garden route every wednesday
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CXPRESS
News & Views
16 September 2015
Excerpts from ‘The Story of Archerwood’ by Charles Westwood
Part VI
Super-boating for hours of high-speed fun, and losing ourselves in the silent foam We continue the late Charles Westwood’s account of how Plettenberg Bay’s famous Archerwood was established, having concluded last week’s episode with the family’s novel idea to make ends meet - turn to page 2 of the past five editions at www.cxpress. co.za to catch up on the story so far
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LWAYS scheming about making ends meet, we thought water-ski lessons may contribute to this cause. With this in mind I contacted Derek Kershaw in Knysna. Derek was the agent for Mercury outboard motors and skiing equipment, and over a few months we became very friendly. I must mention that Derek, who unfortunately walked with crutches, having had his back broken in a shooting accident as a youngster, later became a Springbok hobie cat and archery champion. I told Derek I had a crazy idea about re-designing my boat and using it for water-ski lessons with a bigger motor. During this time, with the future in mind, I spent many evenings changing my 14ft speedboat. I cut off the deck, originally 8ft, leaving a 3ft6” deck in the bow end. I re-designed the front seat, did away with the small back seat, and put in two side-bend seats that could each accommodate four people. I also raised all the gunwales from
14” to 15”. This made a substantial difference to the appearance of the boat, but it was not unattractive. Realising I would need more width on the waterline, I put two attachments for water-skis, 6” by 4ft long, on the bottom of the transom, which I built up from 1.5” to 2.5”. I then added a 2ft prow to the front of the boat to com-
conversation, I talked Derek into letting me try out the 135hp Mercury motor. He thought I was off my head and that the boat would be completely unstable, and would probably flip. A day or two later, Derek arrived at Archerwood and together we fitted the motor to the boat. You can imagine how it looked with six cylinders above the transom - re-
‘We were always trying to out-do the Formosa Inn, but this was not one of our best ideas... ’ pensate for and balance the additions at the back. Having done all this and repainted and refibreglassed the new sections, I rang up Derek and said I was ready for him to advise me about motors. He had just received the 80hp Mercury, which he recommended for my purpose, as well as a 135hp Mercury suitable for a 22ft boat. Incidentally, this was the first big outboard motor seen in Knysna. After quite a long
ally huge. Arriving at Keurbooms, we launched the boat and Derek insisted we both put on life jackets before we started up the motor. At half-throttle speed, the boat was slightly bow up, but by changing the position of the motor on the transom somewhat, we found that at half throttle the boat planed beautifully. I find it hard to explain the feeling of exhilaration when we went to full power, and on looking at the speedometer we found we were doing 60 knots. Many enjoyable times were spent taking hotel guests for rides to Whiskey Creek and teaching people to ski on Keurbooms River. It was quite something in those days with eight or so people aboard, passing the locals in their smaller craft who could only manage about 35 knots. Later, because of financial difficulties and the many pressures of work, we sold the boat to Nicky Behr and a friend of his. --The caravan park at Keurbooms belonged at this time to the Stewarts, whose father had received a grant from
the government giving him use of the land on a 99-year lease. He used to charge us 50c entrance fee to the area and there were no restrictions of any sort. On occasions, we used to set up targets on the opposite bank and shoot with my .303 hunting rifle across the river. Nature Conservation would be a bit appalled today - it is well known that this wonderful piece of property reverted to the Province. We spent many mornings teaching hotel guests and a number of locals to waterski, notably Val Williams and her sister. One holiday season when we were working out how to better the Stroebels (Formosa Inn) with our advertising campaign, Rob came up with the idea of making a big advertising board and cruising up and down the Keurbooms displaying it. We were always trying to out-do the Formosa, but this was not one of our best ideas... PLETT IN THOSE DAYS The real storms of those early days seem long gone. We have vivid recollections of looking out to sea and seeing on the horizon continuous flashes of lightning that went on for two or three hours. It looked for all the world like a naval battle with guns blazing - really exhilarating to watch from our vantage point above the town. --The other outstanding event in the late 60s, early 70s, was when Keurbooms River came down in flood, overflowed the banks of the caravan park and washed away many boats from the boating club. The flood caused the riverside vegetation, which had not been inundated pre-
60-KNOT CRUISER: The revamped vessel with its impressive motor allowed for many hours of exhilarating skiing or leisurely cruising up and down the length of beautiful Keurbooms River
viously for many years, to foam and this increased as it reached the mouth, where the lagoon enters the sea. The next day, someone phoned us to say there was a sight worth seeing on Lookout Beach, as it was a most unusual phenomenon. Arriving at the entrance walkway to Lookout, we were surprised not to hear the usual noise of the surf. Once on the beach with our three dogs in tow, we walked into a sea of foam 12foot high covering the entire beach as far as the lagoon.
The dogs were completely disorientated and we were too, walking in this dense silent foam, and after a few minutes we could not find our way out. It was only by listening to cars arriving in the parking area that we were able to find our way to the dunes. The foam was built up about a quarter mile out to sea and there was an eerie stillness and lack of sound. A lot of people actually walked into the sea without realising where they were. To be continued...
DON’T SHOOT! Provincial nature conservation authorities would be appalled today at spots the boys used for target practice, sometimes in mountainous areas around Kranshoek, where Charles’ eldest Mick is pictured here, or shooting at marks set up on the opposite bank of Keurbooms River
Don’t miss the Spring Orchid Show in George next weekend
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hether an amateur with a few plants on the windowsill, the serious hobbyist or a nursery specialising in the mass production of blooms, the passion for orchids dates back many thousands of years. Orchids form the largest of the plant families with some 25,00030,000 identified species. The growth of interest in orchids over the years means that they are no longer limited to the elite as propagation and hybridisation have reduced costs to levels affordable to everyday hobbyists. There are many orchid growers on the Garden Route, which is demonstrated by the number of visitors attend-
ON THE ORCHID TRAIL: The George Orchid Show is the largest collection of orchid blooms under one roof on the Garden Route
ing the annual Orchid Show in George. Our temperate climate, year-round rainfall and little threat of frost make ideal growing conditions for most orchid species under
simple shade-cloth shelters. Apart from an established Orchid Society, professional orchid grower Else Hall of Outeniqua Orchids imports the latest hybrids from America and is well known in SA orchid circles for her knowledge of orchid culture Orchid Society meetings are held monthly on the last Thursday generally at 7pm at George Presbyterian Church in Caledon Street, or at members’ houses on the last Saturday at 2:30pm. Visitors are always welcome. The Orchid Society spring show from September 24-26, this year entitled ‘The Orchid Trail’, is invariably spectacular and is the largest collec-
tion of orchid blooms under one roof on the Route. The show also offers a plant table with a wide variety of orchids for sale at reasonable prices. Knowledgeable growers will be on hand to give advice on the 24th and 25th from 9am to 5pm, and on the 26th from 9am to 1pm at the Presbyterian hall. Potting demonstrations take place daily (24th - 10:30am Cymbidiums, 3pm Cattleyas; 25th - 10:30am Cattleyas, 3pm Phalaenopsis; 26th 10:30am Cymbidiums). Entrance is R10 for adults (kids U12 enter free). Contact Brian Ormerod on 082 855 9176 or Iain Mann on 044 870 8201 for further details.
News & Views
16 September 2015
Ghanaian latest suspected Plett child abuse perpetrator
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38-year-old citizen of Ghana residing in KwaNokuthula appeared in the Plettenberg Bay Magistrates’ Court for the second time last Friday after he was arrested by the George FCS (Family violence, Child protection and Sexual offences) unit at his house on September 8 at around 8pm. It is alleged that the man committed several offences involving four girls aged between seven and 11 years
old in separate incidents at his house between August 31 and the date of his arrest. In a statement on September 12, Southern Cape police spokesperson captain Bernadine Steyn said: “He was charged with exposure or display of his genitals to children, displays of child pornography or pornography to children, and for attempting to commit sexual offences and sexual assault. “On August 31 at approxi-
mately 3pm, he allegedly attempted to put his private part in the 11-year-old victim’s mouth. On September 1 at about 4pm, the accused allegedly showed a pornographic DVD to two nineyear-old girls.” In the statement, it is further alleged that the suspect exposed himself to a sevenyear-old victim during the late afternoon of September 2, while he allegedly requested three female victims (two
Public pressure and Plett policeman’s dedication bring some relief for Sesona’s family Yolandé Stander
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HOUSANDS of Plettenberg Bay residents supported a campaign to keep an alleged child killer behind bars last week - this after 18-year-old suspect Lulama Candani, accused of killing eight-year-old Sesona Bhayibihle last year, decided last month to apply for bail about seven months after initially turning down the option. The move sparked a massive outcry from the Plett community and local antichild abuse groups who started a campaign against his release. More than 3,700 residents signed a petition in an attempt to place pressure on authorities to refused bail. They handed the documents over to the investigating officer, detective warrant officer John Nomdoe, before court proceedings on Friday. The matter was placed on the court roll for Candani to apply for bail, but he informed the court on the day that he no longer wished to continue with the application. Local anti-child abuse organisation the Green Hearts of Plett spokesman
Yvette Wilschut said she believed public pressure influenced his decision to abandon his bail application. She added the reason why they had decided to start the petition was because they believed that Candani was a danger to society. “We also felt that he could disappear to his home in the Eastern Cape once released, or that the community could decide to take justice into their own hands.” “Women and Men against Child Abuse (WMACA), the Green Hearts and the ANC Women’s League had immense support from the community in obtaining close to 4,000 signatures for a petition strongly opposing bail for Candani, who allegedly brutally murdered Sesona,” said WMACA spokesman Joanne Barrett. A large group of protesters gathered outside the court on Friday, holding posters and singing anti-child abuse songs. The gallery was packed with residents who stood in solidarity with Sesona’s family. Barrett added that she hoped proceedings would now move swiftly as the girl’s family had suffered severe emotional trauma due to unnecessary delays in the
case, including Candani’s latest attempt at bail. “We demand that an effective trial is managed by the state so this family can find closure and continue with their lives. “We also extend our appreciation and applaud Nomdoe for his complete dedication, continuous hard work and commitment at ensuring this case is prioritised.” The matter was postponed to November 23. Candani will then appear in the Knysna Circuit High Court where he will stand trial on charges of murder and rape. When arrested on December 9, he was initially charged with only murder, but this was altered when the autopsy revealed that Sesona had also been raped. Candani was arrested after he handed himself over to Knysna SAPS and voluntarily showed police where the body of the girl was dumped. He allegedly slit the girl’s throat a day before his arrest and dumped her body in dense bushes just a few metres from her home in Bossiesgif on the outskirts of Plettenberg Bay. Garden Route Media
aged nine and the third aged 11) to undress themselves in his presence around 3:30pm on September 8. His first appearance in court was on Thursday the 10th, and when he appeared for a third time on Monday September 14, the case was yet again postponed as he requested the services of an interpreter. By going to press, the man was said to still be in the process of deciding whether he would apply for bail during a hearing scheduled to take place yesterday afternoon.
CXPRESS
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NO BAIL SHOW: Plett residents are making their voices heard in a bid to prevent the courts from granting bail to suspected child abusers and murderers - pictured above, members of the Green Hearts demonstrate outside the court where Lulama Candani appeared last week (see story below) Photo: Yolandé Stander
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CXPRESS
News & Views
16 September 2015
Proactive approach needed to mitigate visa regulations impact There has been no shortage of national press in the past few months regarding what many have called ‘draconian’ visa regulations enforced in June by head of Home Affairs Malusi Gigaba - NIKKI RIDLEY reports
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HILE many locals remain uncertain as to what the future holds in respect of SA’s new visa regulations, one thing is certain: they’re here to stay. And as tourism industry stakeholders are taking measures nationally, so will local businesses and tourism associations have to be proactive and rise to this new challenge. In short, the regulations not only require foreign nation-
als travelling with children under the age of 18 to present unabridged birth certificates at ports of entry, but that they also present themselves at centres for the taking of biometric data. This requirement may be common practice for South Africans when obtaining outbound visas, but is neither practical nor affordable for some of SA’s inbound markets such as India and China
- encouraging them to look at other destinations for their holidays. There has been an almost panicked outcry across the SA travel and hospitality industry in the past few months, with tourism industry bodies and economists slating Gigaba’s short-sightedness and refusal to back down in the face of actual and projected statistics that show a 20% drop in tour-
ism revenue for South Africa. And many in the Garden Route have added their voices. However, while word on the street is that business is down significantly from last year, with fewer international tourists - whether it be from visa regulations or other factors - the fact is not everyone is suffering and the effect of the visa regulations are mostly felt by those invested in China and India as well as some second-tier businesses like restaurants who don’t do their own destination marketing. Comprehensive tourism statistics are not available from Plett and Knysna municipalities, but some local activity providers have stated
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a significant drop in revenue so far this year, predominantly from the Chinese and Indian inbound markets. One of Plett’s whalewatching operators claimed a 30% drop in bookings compared to this time last year, but Lara Mostert of Monkeyland said that while they too had experienced big drop in revenue from the affected inbound markets, they had nevertheless maintained overall revenue thanks to fact they had been proactive early on and refocused their marketing efforts on the South African market. On the other side of the coin, some upmarket guesthouses have said that they experienced negligible impact from the visa regulations. Many are in fact enjoying brisk business thanks to the weak Rand, and Knysna Tourism CEO Greg Vogt said that businesses focusing on the US inbound market were currently reporting growth. One of the most affected sectors in SA is Language Schools, with a 70% drop in revenue. According to Dave Swart of the Plettenberg Bay Accommodation Association, “this will impact on the Garden Route, as a lot of the language school students tend to travel for a few weeks after their courses”. He added that it would be difficult to measure the overall effect in Plett in particular
due to local marketing efforts. “There is increased awareness of the town because of the activities of Plett Tourism. The festivals so far this year [Plett Fringe, MAD, etc.] have shown growth in numbers which have made Plett busier than other years - if mainly with SA visitors, not foreigners.” But while the long-term outcome is certainly not all bleak, it’s not all roses either. Chairman of FEDHASA Cape (the South African Hospitality Industry representative for the Western and Northern Cape), Rob Kucera, said that areas such as the Garden Route would be affected heavily by the visa regulations. “The compulsory unabridged birth certificate requirement will influence all inbound markets, not just China and India. There are talks with Government, and a forum has been set up, but the sad news is that even if it gets changed today, SA will take two years to recover the lost business.” Speaking at a recent workshop involving Wesgro, FEDHASA and the Dept. of Home Affairs, he added that while there was no doubt the sector faced “challenging times”, the new visa regulations were here to stay. “The only way forward is to make moves to mitigate the impact.”
18 die on W-Cape roads
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N alarming figure of 18 fatalities occurred on Western Cape roads last weekend, when Provincial Traffic Services also stopped 2,441 cars in 21 alcohol blitz roadblocks across the province from September 11-13. A total of 1,467 drivers were screened for being under the influence of alcohol and 21 arrests were made. The highest breath alcohol reading was recorded in Caledon - at 1.22mg/1,000ml, this is five times the legal limit of 0.24mg/1,000ml.
Speeding offences recorded counted 853, while 260 fines amounting to R371,650 were issued for various violations. As far as Eden statistics are concerned, Friday September 11 was a black day on the N2 near Heidelberg, when two drivers and five passengers lost their lives. The only other instance in which the Garden Route and Little Karoo area featured is when a speedster was clocked driving at 112km/h in a 60km/h zone on the R62 near Oudtshoorn.
News & Views
16 September 2015
CXPRESS
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This is REAL reality TV... a look behind the scenes of SA’s ultimate braai show As befits National Braai Month, Wilderness resident SACHA BUCHANAN told CXPRESS the tale of her team Swagger Muffins’ big adventure while shooting Season 4 of eTV’s ‘Ultimate Braai Master’, the first episode of which airs this Sunday - turn to page 5 of the April 15 edition at www.cxpress.co.za to read our initial interview with Sacha GOING (FIRE) PLACES: The two-month UBM shoot kicked off at Gariep Dam before traversing the country, from the Eastern Cape to Drakensberg through Gauteng and back to the Karoo, with Claudia D’Ambrosio Grobler from Somerset West, left, as Braai Master and Wilderness local Sacha her able Braai Buddy - at right, they tackle a potjie challenge
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can honestly say that when my friend Claudia and I entered Ultimate Braai Master (UBM) as team Swagger Muffins last December, we never thought that we would be going on the road-trip of a lifetime. Claudia and I have known each other since we were 15 years old, but participating in this two-month shoot has been the best experience of our lives and showed again how special it is to share such an adventure with a friend of more than 20 years. From the moment that we got on the plane with a few of our fellow contestants, we knew that it was ‘Game On’ - which is also the title of this new Braai Master season. We were looking around the plane nervously at some of the Cape Town contestants... But as soon as we reached our first destination, we formed instant bonds with the other teams that are sure to last a lifetime. Sharing tense moments in situations that you would never find yourself in during everyday life created a closeness that we will treasure forever. We then hit the road for the next few weeks in the most amazing Suzuki SX4 All Grip. What a privilege that each team received its own car to cruise the country while shooting UBM! Words can hardly describe how amazing it was to form part of a long convoy of all these branded cars. Nerves ran high and the tension was on - never knowing what was coming next in a challenge or new destination took quite some time to adjust to. The unknown is always daunting. True to form, judge and
celebrity chef Justin Bonello pulled a lot of twists and turns, unexpected challenges and rewards. Ultimate Braai Master Season 4 is certainly vastly different from the others and more than ever before will keep viewers glued to their screens. Through our journey from location to location and challenge to challenge we laughed, cried and rejoiced together as team Swagger Muffins, along with our fellow contestants. We became a real family with people from all walks of life and got to witness a rainbow nation to be proud of. We lifted each other up at low times. Saying goodbye to contestants was the hardest part of it all. I promised my mom I would not cry, but boy did we cry! What you see on TV is real emotion. UBM is REAL reality TV. Nothing is staged. I don’t think you get more real. You can’t stage burning bread, dropping food, nervous tension, cooking on an open fire, running around like a headless chicken and cutting fingers. Most of all, the fact that you have no idea what each challenge will require is like walking into a room sporting a blindfold. One thing is for sure, Ultimate Braai Master is not for sissies. Claudia and I have decided that we would never again be couch potato judges when watching such competitions, thinking that we could do better. We have gained serious respect, and have certainly eaten some humble pie during the UBM process. Cooking a steak, chops, a potjie or dessert on an open fire in a designated time
- and sometimes that timeframe is virtually impossible - with cameras all around and in the blazing sun is no laughing matter. It’s gruelling and tough, but once over, the feeling of having pulled off that challenge is hard to explain. You feel overwhelmed with emotion. I often cried or just laughed with the relief that it was done with a good pat on the back and felt very proud of what we had accomplished. Shooting Season 4 was all camping with just a few luxury rewards in between, which was duly appreciated. Everything reeked of fire, no matter how often you washed your hair or aired out the tent. But it was all worth it. Some destinations were very hot and some extremely cold. They were not joking when they said “bring thermals”. But then, as Justin says: why sleep in a five-star hotel when you can sleep under a million stars? We got to see places in South Africa that I would probably never have seen we truly live in an amazing country. I have travelled the world but was gobsmacked by the beauty that surrounds us in SA. Both Claudia and I are extremely proud at how well
we did. We were up against some serious foodies and chefs and feel very privileged to have spent such special times with them. We learnt more about cooking on UBM than we have in two lifetimes. Everyone was encouraging and extremely generous with their knowledge of food and fire, from the judges to the host and our fellow contestants.
Unfortunately we cannot divulge anything about Swagger Muffins’ final position in the competition, or the results of any other contestants, as this will spoil all the surprises for viewers. I can, however, say that I am as excited and nervous as everyone else to watch Ultimate Braai Master, which starts broadcasting on eTV on September 20 at 4pm.
Be sure to diarise the next 13 Sundays as this is a truly epic show and you wouldn’t want to miss an episode. Follow Sacha and Claudia on Twitter @SwaggerMuf fins5 or Facebook Team Swagger Muffins UBM and visit www.ultimatebraaimas ter.com/teams/swaggermuf fins/ for additional information and images.
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CXPRESS
16 September 2015
News & Views
Tsitsikamma students win national tourism prize and a trip to the French Riviera
VERY NICE-LY DONE: Sharp Paul Sauer students Lee-Ann Wyatt, second from left, and Janice Lawack are pictured here with proud mom Anneline Wyatt, left, and Tourism teacher Anneke Binneman at right, flanking Ashleigh Wentworth of Stormsriver Adventures, which served as inspirational model of sustainable tourism practices for the girls’ winning entry
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ERFECTLY timed for Tourism Month, Paul Sauer High School teacher Anneke Binneman shared exciting news for adventure tourism in the Tsitsikamma area with CXPRESS recently. “Two Grade 10 learners at our school in Kareedouw, Lee-Ann Wyatt and Janice Lawack were announced as winners in the National GTTP Research Competition. Lee-Ann’s parents are Anneline and Martin Wyatt of Stormsriver Adventures, and Janice is the daughter of single mom Joanette Lawack from Clarkson. “Their topic for the competition was Sustainable Tourism in South Africa and they did most of their case study on the principles of sustainability practised by Stormsriver Adventures.” Binneman is the girls’ Tourism teacher and went on to explain that they were now preparing for a five-minute presentation to an audience of 3,000 people at the National Tourism Careers Expo in Bloemfontein from October 1-3, when they will also receive their national trophy and the official award. Director of the Global Travel and Tourism Partnership South Africa (GTTPSA) Elsabé Engelbrecht congratulated the students, saying that they made their
region very proud. “They will now go on to represent South Africa at the 15th International Travel and Tourism Student and Teacher Conference in Nice, France. “This annual conference is attended by tourism learners and teachers from the other 11 member countries of the GGTP - the USA, UK, Canada, Russia, China, Jamaica, Ireland, Hungary, Kenya, Brazil, and Hong Kong,” explained Engelbrecht. In Nice, the local ladies will do a 20-minute presentation, which will be captured on CD and given to all delegates to take back for use in their Tourism classes in their respective countries. “This presents a unique opportunity to promote our area, our country and all its varied tourist destinations,” said Binneman, adding that exposure of this magnitude offered huge benefits to our area. “We want to include as many Garden Route adventure activities as possible in our slide show, and the girls will wear branded T-shirts and gear with local companies’ banners and logos, providing excellent international publicity. “Raffle tickets for sponsored adventure activities will be sold at R100 each as fundraiser - with the current exchange rate we need a
LOT of Rands!” Binneman will accompany her students to France and although GTTP-SA sponsors their international flights, accommodation and meals, and the cost of passports and visas, they have to take their own pocket money, pay for return flights to OR Tambo and travel insurance, while the girls will need warm clothes and new suitcases, too. “We’d also love to take them to Paris and London while they have the opportunity, so if you read here and would like to donate some cash for this purpose, it would be much appreciated,” said Binneman. “I hope you will be as enthusiastic as we are about this amazing opportunity for adventure tourism in the Garden Route.” The preliminary date for the conference in Nice is November 30 to December 4. If you would like to get involved, contact the school on 042 288 0321 or at pauls@lantic. net or deposit cash into their bank account as follows: Paul Sauer High School, Absa (branch 632005) acc no 194 0390 202, reference GTTP. Email annekehac@web mail.co.za or anneline@ stormsriver.com with your proof of payment and complete sponsor detail.
Wittedrift kies nuwe hoofleiers Na ‘n opwindende kamp vir Hoërskool Wittedrift se nuwe prefekte so ‘n paar naweke gelede is hul hoofleiers vir 2016 op 2 September aangewys. Veels geluk aan, van links, onderhoofdogter Anjo Duarte, hoofdogter Cina van der Mescht, hoofseun Lithemba Mpoli en onderhoofseun Christopher Williams.
News & Views
16 September 2015
Lions spoil seniors with seedlings and soup
The worldwide plight of the aged has been in the national media spotlight this month, but this update from Plett Lions club members FRED & LESS STANDER served as reminder that local seniors are not necessarily neglected
TOUCHING: Members of Plett Lions handed out seedlings to senior residents of KwaNokuthula recently, each plant accompanied by a card that carried a personalised message
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E form part of Lions International and our club is particularly family orientated, encouraging men and women to join equally and welcoming children to attend meetings. The Plett Baia Formosa Lions was only recently established, our charter night taking place on September 5, so making the club official
and inducting members. We are a small club but we’re growing every month and plan to make a huge difference in the community. Most clubs have a Leo club attached and although we do not have enough children for this yet, we hope to get there in the near future. For Lions, family always comes first and we understand
COMFORT FOOD WARMS HEARTS: The Lions collected food donated by kind members of the Plett community for a soup kitchen in KwaNokuthula
that parents have other obligations, so there is no forced amount of meetings that need to be attended to become a member of Plett’s Lions. If you only want to help with projects, that is perfectly fine. Our main aim is to assist the community at large and not as much projects involving individuals, although we do take on the latter as well. We prefer not to just throw money at the problem, and rather look at ways we can contribute to assist residents in helping themselves. As such, we have decided to start out by assisting Angels Community Base Services in KwaNokuthula. The first step was starting up their soup kitchen and in the long term, they would like to get people to produce their own vegetables to supply the soup kitchen, which will ultimately earn them an income while feeding themselves. Another project was inspired by Eden Lion in George and is called Seedlings For Seniors. It entails giving less fortunate or elderly citizens each a plant with a personalised message as a symbol of hope, and to show that someone really does care about them. So assisted by the Angels, we handed out about 70 plants, each with its personalised message, to seniors in Kwano. LM in Plett kindly donated a meal of curry and rice on the day to 100 people, contributing to this truly special occasion. It was humbling to see the smiles of joy on the recipients’ faces, even if it’s something as small as a plant. The gesture will most definitely stay in their minds for a long time. In a nutshell: we are here to serve the community! It is amazing that there is so much love and charity in Plettenberg Bay and we hope that more locals will join our club in the near future. The international status of Lions is a great asset in obtaining sponsors and large corporates to come on board with projects. Contact Fred on 083 737 4707 or at info@gardenroutetracking.co.za and visit www.lionsclubs.org/EN/index.php for more info.
Sharp as a pin at 94 years young Edna Helfet recently celebrated her 94th birthday at The Fat Fish in Plett, feting this joyous occasion with eight close friends. Says Robyn Eidelman, who kindly shared this news with CXPRESS: ‘Edna was born in George in 1921 and loves to talk about her life there, where she lived until the age of 19. She currently resides at Glen Eden retirement village in Plett and except for a few aches and pains, she is marvellous for her age. Always cheerful and chatty, her brain is as sharp as ever. Edna is a remarkable woman and an inspiration to everyone who knows her.’ Here’s hoping to report on your century milestone, Edna, with best wishes for happiness and health in the six years ‘till such time.
CXPRESS
‘Mother of Kranshoek’ turns 105
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Benjamin Patterson of Plett, at back, shared this happy photo of his mother-in-law, Elizabeth Moodie, on the incredible milestone of her 105th birthday on September 10. Says Benjamin: ‘I’m married to her baby daughter, Linda, and together with the rest of the family we celebrated the birthday of this wonderful Mother of Kranshoek and Plettenberg Bay! Ouma Moodie’s health is excellent. She takes no medication other than half a Disprin every morning.’ We add our voice to the many people from Plett and elsewhere who wished Ouma Moodie all the best for continued good health and happiness.
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CXPRESS
Council News
16 September 2015
Suburb
Plettenberg Bay New Horizons Kwanokuthula Farms Natures Valley Wittedrift Keurboomstrand Kranshoek Kurland Green Valley Augmentation Total
Outstanding debt April 2015 38 186 942
May 2015 Current levy 16 359 096
Payments
Adjustments
- 607 935 18 281
Outstanding debt at May 2015 36 715 861 4 749 499
Increase/ (Decrease) -1 471 081 146 084
4 603 415
555 000
18 438 112 390 635
13 316 230
544 596
263 125
108 150
13 489 551
173 321
9 064 657
1 796 200 633 777
1 598 238
8 616 160
-448 497
620 238
-91 074
711 312 757 945 2 891 713 12 060 877 5 410 652 1 460 818 88 464 561
264 848
646 459 -22 195 -21 921
34 463
1 698 802 39 493 19 737 5 336
-159 807 -23 177 -21 351 -6 123
782 522 3 001 467 12 313 398 5 561 411 1 496 068
24 577 109 754 252 521 150 759 35 250
22 257 368
23 465 371
-89 617
87 346 175
-1 118 386
267 504 1 648 749 268 837 149 145
747 046
Council News
16 September 2015
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News & Views
16 September 2015
This Plett food fest is sure to impress even mom-in-law...
New Plettenberg Bay retirement resort launched with flair
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CXPRESS recently eavesdropped when the organisers of Plett on a Platter put their expert heads together...
LETT’S a shocker if you don’t feel like cooking. These words escape the seasoned lips of Plett private chef and Banting Betty owner Sarah Murray. Oh, if you could see the look on the face of Cindy Lederle... “What on earth are you on about, we’re trying to plan a food festival here!â€? Sarah explains her predicament: “Guys, we live in Plett! When I ask my husband where he wants to go, I hear: ‘I don’t know’. So I say: ‘What do you feel like?’ (secretly hoping he says ‘seafood’), but what I hear is ‘steak!’ “Ok, so I say Emily’s and he’s thinking Surf CafĂŠ; I suggest The Med and he goes Nguni. I crave the comfort of Arugula... My point is, in Plett we are terribly spoilt for choice. With over 80 destination restaurants to choose from, where does one begin? “Sure, we all get stuck in a rut and often it’s about price. But showcasing our incredible variety is what the festival is all about,â€? Sarah says. She has a point. Plett on a Platter is the brain child of Cindy Lederle, as passionate about food as she is about Plett, and not necessarily in that order. “Plett has the potential to be THE culinary hot spot of the Garden Route, and the food festival is to introduce that fact,â€? enthuses Cindy. “What I love about Plett versus the big cities is that the restaurants here are home grown rather than franchise or flagship. They are set up and
FOOD FEST FUNDIS: Sarah Murray and David and Cindy Lederle plan a culinary feast showcasing Plett’s best eateries Photo: Sharyn Hodges
run by local folk who love food and all that it entails. “These are people with individual creative ideas, tapping into local produce, and doing what they love - not for big bucks and fame, but for the need and for the love of it.â€? So how does the fest work if it’s not held in one location? Both Cindy and Sarah answer with a question of their own: “When you know your mother-in-law is coming for a visit, what happens?â€? That’s easy. You get the house in order, buy fresh flowers, fill the fridge and cupboards, buy a few good bottles of wine‌ “Exactly!â€? exclaims Cindy. “What better place to showcase your food and lifestyle than in your own home?â€? And that is why Plett on a Platter is held in many different restaurants all over Plett. Breakfast, lunch and dinner will be offered and, to even the playing fields, each meal falls within a price range, giving food lovers open op-
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tions to try places they may otherwise disregard. So how does it work? Sarah explains that each participating restaurant has chosen a slot, some lasting throughout the festival and others as once off occasions. “Visit the Plett on a Platter events page through Plett Tourism and click on a restaurant to see what’s on offer and on which day. By this week, the entire programme should feature, spread over five days with three daily meals,� says Sarah. “The Hunter’s group has informed us that all their hotels are full during the Festival period - Zinzi, Tsala, and Hunter’s Country House are all taking part - so we highly recommend that you book your meals as soon as possible.� Chefs’ bios and festival updates will appear at www. facebook.com/Plett-on-aPlatter and at www.plett tourism.co.za/events/pletton-a-platter. See the advert below for more details.
Words & photos: Timothy Twidle
HE Plettenberg Manor, an exclusive retirement resort, was launched at a well-attended function held at The White House on Tuesday September 8. The concept and design of the resort is being overseen by the Devmark Property Group, which to date has successfully brought to fruition seven similar resorts that are now home to some 2,300 people in the evening of their lives. These developments are located in Durbanville, Somerset West, Onrus and Hermanus, all falling within the Western Cape province. During the Plett function, an audio-visual presentation of The Plettenberg Manor was given by Director of Developments Jean-Pierre Nortier, and Devmark marketing manager Stephanie Gallowitz. The resort will be situated on six hectares of land on the banks of Keurbooms River, on a site formerly occupied by a hotel, which will be converted into a clubhouse providing recreational facilities to owners of units. There will be 111 separate residential units available in a variety of seven different designs, and 54 assisted living units to provide for the infirmities of age. Security will be thoroughly provided for in the layout of the complex. Construction of The Plettenberg Manor is scheduled to commence during the early part of 2016. For more information, please visit www. the plettmanor.co.za and see the advert on page 11 for further details.
HITTING THE MARK: The Plettenberg Manor, an exclusive retirement resort planned for Bitou, was launched by Stephanie Gallowitz and Jean-Pierre Nortier of Devmark Property Group, at a function held at The White House on September 8 - an artist’s impression of the resort can be seen in the background
DULY IMPRESSED: Enjoying the launch event, during which guests were treated to excellent refreshments to boot, were from left Ian Watt, Francesca Leary, Jan McMillan and Nadine Watt WORTHY: Jock Worthing, a director of the company that owns the property where The Plettenberg Manor will be built, addresses the audience during the lavish launch function
Start celebrating Plett’s wines and bubbles in style
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ON’T miss out on the fun and exciting events at local wine estates leading up to the Sasfin Plett Wine & Bubbly Festival weekend! Start your festivities early, from Wednesday October 7, in celebration of Bramon and Plettenvale wine estates. Come thirsty and leave happy with delectable dining and hip tunes at the gorgeous Bramon Restaurant. With the introduction of new menu items, lingering bubbles and the sounds of an eclectic mix of musos, you are sure to be in for a grand time. Booking is essential (073 833 8183) - the event starts at 12 noon. With hand-crafted masks
designed and made by La Carla Mask Atelier, the Plettenvale Wines & Equinox Masquerade Dinner Dance is the social event of the year! Enjoy a glass of Plettenvale’s Brut RosÊ MCC on arrival and an assortment of canapÊs to get the party started and celebrate Plett’s hottest new dining destination on Lookout Beach. This will be followed by a four-course gourmet meal designed by celebrity chef Garth Stroebel, each course paired with a select Plettenvale wine. Enjoy the tunes of Sujo & Storm featuring Tigger to dance the night away. Booking is essential (082 322 0765).
Photo: Wendy Sanderson-Smith
Promotion
16 September 2015
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Interval
16 September 2015
Het nou net ‘n ou in ‘n rolstoel baie hard aangespreek. Hy het gestop in ‘n normale parkeerplek! Reëls is reëls, pappie...
You can leave your hat on...
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painter by the name of Murphy, while not a brilliant scholar, was a gifted portrait artist. Over a short number of years, his fame grew and soon people from all over Ireland were coming to the town of Doolin in County
Clare, to get him to paint their likenesses. One day, a beautiful young English woman arrived at his house in a stretch limo and asked if he would paint her in the nude. This being the first time anyone had made such a re-
quest, Murphy was a bit perturbed, particularly when the woman told him that money was no object; in fact, she was willing to pay up to 10,000 Pounds Sterling. Not wanting to get into any marital strife, he asked her to wait while he went into the
house to confer with Mary, his wife. After a few minutes he returned, and said to the young woman: “It would be me pleasure to paint yer portrait, missus. The wife says it’s okay. I’ll paint ya in da nude alright, but I have to at least leave me socks on so I have a place to wipe me brushes.”
The keen art collector
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famous art collector is walking through the city when suddenly he notices a mangy cat lapping milk from a saucer in the doorway of a store, and he does a double-take. He recognises that the saucer is extremely old and very valuable, so he walks casually into the store and offers to buy the cat for two dollars. The store owner replies: “I’m sorry, but the cat isn’t for sale.” “Please, I need a hungry
cat around the house to catch mice. I’ll pay you twenty dollars for that cat,” the collector says. “Sold,” the owner says, and hands over the cat. The collector continues: “Hey, for the twenty bucks I wonder if you could throw in that old saucer. The cat’s used to it and it’ll save me from having to get a dish.” The owner replies: “Sorry buddy, but that’s my lucky saucer. So far this week I’ve sold 68 cats.”
Dog: “They don’t keep YOU on a leash because they WANT you to run away.”
A little girl was watching her parents dress for a party. As her dad donned his tuxedo she warned: “Daddy, you shouldn’t wear that suit.” “And why not, darling?” he asked. “You know that it always gives you a headache the next morning.”
In the good old 50s…
• Curry was a surname. • A pizza was something to do with a leaning tower. • All potato chips were plain; the only choice we ever had was whether to put the salt on or not. • Rice was only eaten as a milk pudding. • Calamari was called squid and we used it as fish bait. • A Big Mac was what we wore when it was raining. • Brown bread was something only poor people ate. • Oil was for lubricating, fat was for cooking. • Tea was made in a teapot using tea leaves and never green. • Sugar enjoyed a good press in those days and was regarded as being white gold. Cubed sugar was regarded as posh. • Fish didn’t have fingers in those days. • Eating raw fish was called
insanity, not sushi. • None of us had ever heard of yoghurt. • Healthy food consisted of anything edible. • People who didn’t peel potatoes were regarded as lazy. • Indian restaurants were only found in India. • Cooking outside was called camping. • Seaweed was not a recognised food. • ‘Kebab’ was not even a word, never mind a food. • Prunes were medicinal. • Surprisingly, muesli was readily available, but it was called cattle feed. • Water came out of the tap. If someone had suggested bottling it and charging more than petrol for it, they would have become a laughing stock! • The one thing that we never ever had on our table in the 50s: elbows or phones.
No, I haven’t seen the cat
Business
16 September 2015
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Three days left to benefit from Wills Week
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ATIONAL Wills Week is a joint initiative of the six constituent members of the Law Society of South Africa, and its aim is to encourage members of the public to ensure that their affairs are in order. A Will is a legal document in which people stipulate what should happen to their estate after death, and this document should comply with certain legal requirements. Why is it important to have a valid Will?
Investor Focus
If you die without a valid Will, the distribution of your assets is determined by the Intestate Succession Act No 81 of 1987. The Act provides that, if you are survived by a spouse and children, your assets will be divided between them in predetermined proportions. The inheritance by minor children will be administered by the Guardian Fund until they reach the age of 18. If you are only survived by children or grandchildren,
they will inherit and if you have neither spouse, children, nor grandchildren, the estate is distributed to your parents, brothers and sisters, grandparents, aunts and uncles, or cousins, depending on who survives you. What are the benefits? By means of a valid Will, you can provide for your loved ones according to their needs and your wishes. It will assure that your surviving spouse has the means to care for your children after
you passed away. You can appoint guardians to act in the interest of your minor children should both you and your spouse die simultaneously. A Will gives you the power to decide how your assets are disposed of when you are not there to take care of it yourself. If you are recently married, divorced or widowed, have started cohabitating with your partner or have bought a new property, it is a good time to review your Will.
Malcolm Stewart – Investment manager at Michaelides Parker Wealth Knysna & Plett
Exchange Traded Note (ETN) - China
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TNs are used to represent those assets/shares that are less suitable to hold or store, i.e. commodities, currencies or shares that are not easily accessible. The issuer of the ETN is obliged to cover its liabilities using derivatives. It does not, however, have to hold the actual underlying securities. (These are sometimes called synthetic ETFs). The investor must therefore take into account the creditworthiness of the issuer. In the case of the China ETN, the issuer is Deutsche Bank, which certainly has a particularly good credit rating. The China ETN available on the JSE, or through ETFSA, is based on the MSCI TRN total return index. (‘Total return’ implies that all dividends, etc. are automatically
Hierdie span verkoop nou selfs beter! Group Editors se verkoopspan het vroeër die maand ‘n twee-dag verkoopsopleiding sessie bygewoon waartydens gefokus is op die basiese elemente in die verkoopsproses. Behalwe vir CXPRESS is Group Editors ook die uitgewers en drukkers van George Herald, Mossel Bay Advertiser, Oudtshoorn Courant, Knysna-Plett Herald, Suid-Kaap Forum, GraaffReinet Advertiser, George Mini-ads en Mossel Bay Home Ads. Die span wat dit bygewoon het is, agter van links, Heidi Olivier, Servaas de Kock, Rozanne Oliver, JuanMaré Conradie, Michelle Roux, CXPRESS agent Watty Watson, Julinda Aucamp, Zirk Jansen, Nicole Vosser, Lizanne Schraader, Shirley Coetzee, CXPRESS agent en onvangs Linda Ausker en Jessica Quinn. In die middelste ry is Alice Vorster, Karen Geurtse, Karen Watts en Linda Pretorius, met Lo-An-Nel Breytenbach, Christopher Mcinga, Brende Brits en Lucille du Preez voor.
reinvested rather than being distributed). The shares in this index are listed on the Shanghai Stock Exchange, the Shenzhen Stock Exchange (in Hong Kong) and the Hong Kong Stock Exchange. There are 149 shares in the index, 24% of which are listed on the Hong Kong Stock Exchange. Performance in Rands over one year is a staggering 40.24% and 29.98% over three years. (The ETN has only been available in Rands for the last three years.) The top 10 holdings are as follows: Tencent 10.35%, China Mobile 7.9%, China Construction 7.7%, ICBC 5.9%, Bank of China 5.2%, Ping An Insurance 3.54%, CNOOC 2.55%, Petrochina
Co 2.37% and China Petro & Chem 2.2%. Sectoral distribution is as follows: Financials 43%, IT 13.3%, Telecommunications 10.0%, Energy 8.9%, Industrials 7.5%, Consumer Discretionaries 4.4%, Utilities 4.2%, Consumer Staples 3.7%, Materials 2.3% and Health Care 2%. It is difficult to get an exact PE Ratio for this index, but it is certainly well over the 30 level, while the dividend yield (should it pay dividends) would be less than 2%. Take note, though, that this ETN is not for sissies - it is highly volatile and is almost unpredictable in the short term. The recent extraordinary performance reflects a buying frenzy that can only end in tears...
However when the current party is over, China will offer sound long term-growth, and should have a place in any global portfolio. But the current levels are rather steamy. Malcolm has been in the investment industry for over 40 years. He has written this column in CXPRESS for the last 17 years and is a specialist in managing retired wealth.
How do you gain from National Wills Week? Until Friday September 18, you have the opportunity to have a basic Will drafted by a participating professional free of charge. A practising attorney has the necessary knowledge and expertise to ensure your Will
is valid by complying with all the legal requirements in the Wills Act and that it complies with your wishes. John W Wessels in Plettenberg Bay and Logan-Martin Inc in Knysna are two of the particpating attorneys. See their adverts on this page for contact details.
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CXPRESS
16 September 2015
Classifieds
On the Soapbox
16 September 2015
Letters to the Editor
CXPRESS
Email: editor@cxpress.co.za - Fax: 044 533 0852 - PO Box 1449, Plett 6600
Who can make Tattoo less blue? Marsja Hall-Green of Plett Animal Welfare Services shared the following urgent call for assistance: ‘Tattoo’s owner passed away, then his adoption went wrong and now he is back at PAWS - a very sad, depressed dog. He is a loving and well behaved boy who craves human companionship and he gets on just fine with other dogs. He is middle aged, between five and eight years old, so well over any ‘puppy nonsense’, but still in great shape. Who will give him a loving home? Please call PAWS on 083 287 9917 if you can provide Tattoo with a permanent home, or even if you are prepared to foster him in a home environment.’
Help find missing Meauwie
Knysna reader Amorie Snyman shared this photo and wrote: ‘My cat Meauwie has been missing for two weeks. He is a beautiful white male that has one blue and one green eye, which are very distinct in colour. He is deaf, however he responds very well to hand signals such as rubbing your fingers together. Meauwie is two years old and has been sterilized long ago. He has never been gone or missed a meal before! We are located next to Eastford Downs on Welbedacht Road in Knysna. I would like to ask anyone with information to please email me at s212429000@nmmu. ac.za or call me on 072 482 3272.’
Bitou power thieves not off the hook Earlier this month, a Plett reader bemoaned unfair electrical charges and suggested that the matter of municipal workers stealing power by overriding prepaid electricity boxes had been swept under the carpet (turn to page 11 of the September 2 edition and read ‘Some electricity users more equal than others’ at www.cxpress. co.za) - below, Bitou’s communications department responds to this allegation We wish to assure the Plett public that the investigation into this action continued, and that concomitant action have been instituted against the employees who allegedly misconducted themselves by consuming electricity without paying for same.
Disciplinary hearings against these employees are currently underway and two senior electricians have already been dismissed. A comprehensive statement will be released once the disciplinary processes have been finalised.
Thanks for keeping our kids warm On August 21, warm tracksuits and knitted wool jerseys and beanies were distributed among young children in the poorest part of New Horizons. These clothes were donated by the ladies of St Thomas Methodist Church in Plett, and by a student at the Department of Rural Development, Vuyakazi Ingcibi. Once again these ladies made sure that our children have something to keep them warm, as spring does not mean that the cold
weather is over. We want to extend our gratitude to the St Thomas members who contributed to this cause. Anybody who needs information regarding our project is invited to contact me on 073 513 5119 or at shaun terblanche26@gmail.com and if you could assist with any donations in kind, feel free to WhatsApp me and I will collect. Shaun Terblanche - Project director: Pine Trees Community Outreach Project, Plett
SPRING CHILL QUELLED: Although winter is over, the knitted gifts recently handed to some Pine Trees kids will come in handy for the next few cool months
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Read CXPRESS online @ www.cxpress.co.za
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CXPRESS
Sport & Adventure
16 September 2015
Who will be the surfing Boss of Moss?
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OSS of Moss, a Surfing South Africa-sanctioned 2A-rated event, will take place on September 19 & 20 at The Point in Mossel Bay. Due to its high rating the event has attracted entries from top juniors from all over the country to compete in U12 boys, U14 boys and girls, U16 boys and girls, and U20 boys and girls divisions. “Over 90 kids have entered the event - in fact, there were over 60 entrants within 48 hours, so we had to close entries within a week of going live,” explained event organiser and Waves S’cool of Surfing owner, Llewellyn Whittaker. Business owners and the community of Mossel Bay have shown incredible support in getting the funds together to host this event. “I am blown away by the enthusiasm of Mossel Bay Municipality and our people,” Whittaker said, adding that the drive behind Boss of Moss was to create more events for juniors on the Surfing SA calendar, while promoting local business in the process. “We are working on ensuring a really festive vibe down at the Point over the weekend,” he said. Great news for participating
HOME SURF: Mossel Bay local Damon Bruwer will be one of the juniors competing on home turf during this weekend’s inaugural Boss of Moss - Photo: Llewellyn Whittaker
surfers is that R22,250 worth of prize money and product prizes are up for grabs, including a two-night stay at B@home guesthouse, and weekend stays at Point Village and Wilderness Hotel. “Mitat Penthouse will also sponsor a night’s accommodation, and we are now deciding which prizes will go to which division,” said Whittaker. Ford Mossel Bay is one of the event sponsors and will
be offering shuttle services into town, test drives of their vehicles, and a 4x4 excursion during the course of the weekend. And if you enter the competition on the event Facebook page The Boss of Moss, you stand a chance of winning an ELS Elton Lee Ireland surfboard, an RVCA hamper or a set of plugs from Surf Ears. From 6pm-9pm on September 19, there will be a
Von Zipper night surfing expression session under the flood lights at The Point, while Wellcast will be playing at Delfino’s. And ladies aged 16-23 can enter a modelling competition on Sunday the 20th. “The Boss of Moss is going to be an annual event and we are looking at growing it bigger and better each year,” concluded Whittaker. See the advert on this page for additional information.
Nippers Open Day: 19.9.15
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LETT Surf Lifesaving Club’s Nippers division invites you to an open day on Saturday September 19 at 2pm at the clubhouse on Central Beach. Says Club chairman James Stuart: “Everyone is welcome and a special invitation goes out to prospective Nippers and their parents to come and have a look at what we do, as we would love new kids aged six to 14 to join our ranks.” The purpose of the day is as follows: • Registration for the new season (forms can be obtained in advance by emailing plettsurfclub@ gmail.com) • Bring and braai - fires will be supplied • Fun afternoon on the beach • Coaches’ pre-season meeting. Parents of existing Nippers that are able to bring salads or rolls are asked to contact club secretary Shameera Paruk at the above email address. The search for dedicated coaches for the forthcoming Nippers season is also now on, so if you are willing to give some of your time to Plett Surf Lifesaving Club’s young champs, please feel free to enquire on the day.