17 jan 2018

17 January 2018

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

Alien attack

Taking our leave of Hanlie and Tish p2

Meet Murray High’s top ladies p6

TransCape with Jan Braai p12

Photo: SANParks

Last week, teams from Working for Water and Knysna’s Marine Rangers made a deep impact in the attack on invasive alien vegetation in the vicinity of Charlesford weir, thus availing more water from Knysna River for careful consumption by residents and visitors to the town. Turn to page 3 to find out more.

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CXPRESS

NEWS & VIEWS

17 January 2018

Saying ‘vaarwel’ to Hanlie - a lover of life CXPRESS learnt with sadness that long-time Knysna resident and ‘sister in publishing arms’ Hanlie van Niekerk died of cancer on December 28. Said her business partner of 30 years, Julie Gosling: ‘It is some comfort to all who loved her to know she is no longer suffering.’ Julie also kindly shared the words below, allowing us to include excerpts of the final goodbye to Hanlie that was printed in last week’s edition of Action Ads… ANLIE was born in Klerksdorp on August 1, 1957, and grew up in Theunissen in the Free State with her parents, Piet and Sally, and sisters Retha and Toy. She graduated with an honours degree in History of Art, and took a teaching job in Vryburg. Her parents later moved to Knysna, and after visiting them for a Christmas holiday in December 1981, Hanlie left Vryburg and teaching, and moved down here.

Hanlie had various jobs in Knysna in the early 80s, including working for an architect, for an estate agent, and on Charlesford dairy farm. In the mid-1980s, Hanlie and Julie Gosling worked together for the old Home Ads, and it was there that they decided to set up their own business.

In 1987, they started Action Ads, working out of what was little more than a storeroom behind the old Jimmy’s Café on Main Street. It was hard work, and the two often worked right through the night to get Action Ads on the streets by their deadline, and they would stagger home as the sun was rising.

Their hard work paid off and from a small, two-woman setup, they built Action Ads into what it is today, employing 12 full time and 14 temporary staff.

Hanlie had a great love for life. In particular, she loved the bush, and often used to do hiking trails and loved the walking trails in the Kruger National Park. She was almost at her happiest camping in the bush, listening to the night sounds and bending over to tend the campfire, a glass of red wine in the sand beside her chair.

She also loved 4x4 driving, es-

larly in Action Ads] dealt with astronomers and time, and is perhaps appropriate to repeat here: “We’ve run out of time.

Nobody thought about that, did they? We all think we have unlimited time. Ha ha. Best you make the most of your little

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MAKING THE MOST OF TOGETHERNESS: Hanlie and her partner Annie Frielick, left, on one of their many excursions

pecially in the Kalahari, and became a skilled driver over some very rugged terrain. It was quite a sight to see this slight figure of a woman, cheeks pink with heat, bouncing in the driver’s seat, swinging the steering wheel to avoid the big ones in a remote, rocky riverbed.

She loved cooking, which she said developed out of a need to relax after work, and could produce the most delicious dishes at home or on the campfire.

Hanlie was artistic and her home is filled with her art - all of which has a unique quality.

She had the remarkable ability to turn old, rusty metal, like sardine tins and bottle tops, into stunning art.

A role which Hanlie probably never saw herself in, but which she embraced, was that of a parent. It was not something she sought out, but through a range of circumstances, she, with her partner Annie Frielick, raised two young Knysna children, Liesie and Rea. The four became a loving family, and today those little girls are grown women in their 30s.

One of Hanlie’s Rockspider Chirps [which appeared regu-

supply of time.”

Hanlie was a person who certainly did make the most of her supply of time. Our hearts go out to Annie, Sally and Piet, Retha and Toy, Rea and Liesie.

The measure of our grief is the measure of our love.

Tribute to the everlasting light of a radiant smile HE world at the moment is not a happy place, pervaded by tremulous fear of the future and seemingly so little positive feeling.

So when one receives a smile of such clear warmth from a face that truly reflects the beauty that lies within, you feel a damn sight better

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KEURBOOMSTRAND: The place Tish loved

for having received it. Then you think, how can this person smile like that when her body is being invaded by the most pernicious disease known to mankind?

And yet, that smile was always there. It never faded throughout all the heinous treatment it was subjected to.

And when one walked away, that smile made one feel better, humbler.

Sadly, that smile is no longer with us, but in our memory it’s stronger than ever.

Tish, you were a woman of light that never went out, an incredible lesson to all of us who so often give in to despair.

Jan, it is not given to other to feel your pain for what you have now twice, and so unfairly, suffered. Our sympathy is rather an inadequate way to try and console after what you and your family have gone through.

The Welsh poet Dylan Thomas wrote of his father: ‘Do not go gentle into that good night.’ Tish, your presence in Plett and the legacy you leave mean that there will always be light. - PD

NEWS & VIEWS

17 January 2018

CXPRESS

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Interdict not urgent enough, thus costing suspended Bitou municipal officials dearly It has been a busy season cleaning house within the municipality, including the appointment of an acting municipal manager and an urgent high-court application by the suspended municipal manager and Bitou’s head of corporate services - YOLANDÉ STANDER reports URING the latter part of last year, the DA and AUF coalition undertook to take “decisive and structured” action to rectify poor and “unacceptable levels of service delivery and financial mismanagement” in Bitou Municipality.

These actions commenced on December 6, when the council made a decision to place municipal manager Thabo Ndlovu and head of corporate services Vuyokazi Mbelani on pre-

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cautionary suspension following claims of maladministration and misconduct by senior officials.

Bitou caucus leader Bill Nel said they then approached the Western Cape department of Local Government to appoint an acting municipal manager while the disciplinary process against the officials took its course.

“In terms of the agreement with the minister, the highlyexperienced Johnny Doug-

las took office on Monday January 8 as acting municipal manager, where he will serve for at least the next three months,” Nel said.

In the meantime, Ndlovu and Mbelani filed for an urgent interdict to overturn their precautionary suspension. The matter was placed on the roll in the Johannesburg Labour High Court on December 20, 2017.

However, due to the lack of urgency, the matter was struck from the roll. Ndlovu

Knysna water augmented by alien clearing above Charlesford weir ANPARKS teams, including the local Working for Water crew and Knysna marine rangers, have recently intensified their efforts of clearing alien invasive plants bordering Knysna River.

Explains Garden Route National Park (GRNP) spokesperson Nandi Mgwadlamba: “The purpose of the project is to allow more water to flow freely, as invasive alien plant species (IAPs) suck up millions of litres, especially in areas close to water sources.”

Managing this drive for the last three years is GRNP environmental planner Maretha Alant.

“We took advantage of the good weather forecast for last week to clear alien islands in Knysna River above the Charlesford weir.

This is where extraction pipes are located that supply water to the residents of Knysna,” Alant said, adding that her teams have found To page 4

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ALIEN INVASION: Before the clearing, invasive trees and river vegetation sucked up tons of Knysna River water

IN THE CLEAR: This picture shows the area cleared by Friday January 12

and Mbelani were ordered to pay all the legal and travel costs of the municipality and its legal team.

Nel said last week Wednesday, after consideration of a forensic report covering the allegations against the two officials, council approved the appointment of an external chairperson and officer to lead evidence against the two officials in a disciplinary hearing.

The disciplinary process is

set to be completed within the next three months.

Nel added that during the last week of January, an in-depth assessment of all departments within Bitou municipality, by a high-level team of officials appointed in consultation with the provincial ministry of local government, would commence.

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CXPRESS

17 January 2018

Peak season sees 11.5% increase in international arrivals with regional trips on the rise NITIAL reports on the December 2017 peak tourism month show high growth in international arrivals, and an increase in visitors to regions across the Western Cape.

According to Airports Company SA, Cape Town International Airport registered 127,309 international arrivals for December - an 11.5% increase from the previous year.

Domestic arrivals by air dipped slightly by 2.2% to 389,324. It is anticipated that many local tourists chose to use land travel to access the province.

Wesgro - Cape Town and the Western Cape’s Official Tourism, Trade and Investment Promotion Agency - spoke to tourism offices throughout the region to gain an initial idea of how the province performed this past December. Official statistics will be published by South African Tourism at a later date.

Western Cape minister of Economic Opportunities Alan Winde welcomed initial reports of increases in regional trips.

“The positive feedback received from these offices points to a growth in geographic spread. More people are getting out onto the open road and exploring the diversity of attractions that are on offer across the province.”

The following initial feedback was released

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by January 11: • Mossel Bay and Knysna noted an increase in tourists, the former in particular noting an increase in visitors from India.

• Wilderness/George noted an increase in tourists, with a notable increase in visitors from the Middle East.

• Swellendam noted an increase in tourists, with regular return visitors from Cape Town.

• Barrydale recorded the highest number of visitors to the town in the last two years.

• Bredasdorp and Cape Agulhas reported positive growth in tourist arrivals. Struisbaai had approximately 20,000 people visiting its beaches, whereas L’Agulhas Lighthouse registered a 34.5% increase in visitors.

• Grootbos Nature Reserve in Gansbaai registered a positive peak season, with the majority of international visitors emanating from Germany, the United Kingdom, the Netherlands, and Italy.

• McGregor and Tulbagh both noted increases in tourism figures. Tulbagh in particular noted an increase in domestic visitors.

• Paternoster saw more local visitors during the season to date, particularly from Gauteng and the Western Cape; the leading international markets remained Germany, Switzerland, and the Netherlands.

• Hermanus also recorded an increase in

visitors, retaining its normal European source market. Spain was noted as the new emerging market.

• Lambert’s Bay noted a 5% increase in their top international markets - the United Kingdom and the Netherlands.

• Velddrif and Porterville both noted increases in international visitors. These towns reported a visible increase at their local shops, parking areas and camping sites.

Altogether, 30 out of 36 local tourism offices interviewed by Wesgro noted increases in visitors this December.

Said Winde: “Key goals of Project Khulisa, our economic growth strategy, include securing more direct flights and spreading the returns of tourism across our region to create growth and jobs in rural areas.

“These results prove that we are having a positive impact. We have also received feedback from our towns that visitors have responded positively to our water-saving messages, with many bringing water from their home towns.

“I’m thrilled too that Knysna is having a good season, despite the fires of June last year. The majority of our tourism offices have noted that bookings are continuing to come in, indicating that tourism season is still in full swing.”

NEWS & VIEWS

Knysna alien clearing

WORK UNDERWAY: Working for Water teams built a barge to transport trees across the river after felling

Quality time, not quantity of people, marks Season 2017/18 Words & photos: Khaya Mbesi

ESIDENTS of Plett and visitors from as far afield as the Free State said they had a jolly time in Plett during the festive season, and most of the out-of-towners vowed to return when chatting to CXPRESS during the last days of the festive season.

Said Stanley Smith from Virginia in the Free State: “We travelled so much these holidays, starting off in the Northern Cape and through the Eastern Cape to finally visit you here in the Western Cape.

“It is the first year we have come to this province and we’re enjoying it thoroughly. It has taken a lot from our pocket, but we are happy to spend the money here rather than in other countries, as we feel that South Af-

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rica is in a financial crisis.

“We struggled to get a place to sleep - it’s either very expensive or not nice at all - but we don’t complain because it was all part of the experience,” he said.

Central Beach lifeguards Stuart Stuurman and Rian Weiner concurred that the season was not as busy as previous years, and said there were no serious incidents.

Local couples also took time out on the beach. Mzikayise and Linokuthula Gqodwana and Simphiwe and Asive Hoho said they braaied around Central Beach on the “big days”.

“We also had visitors from George, and it was so nice to welcome them to Plett. But

on Monday our holiday will be over and we’ll all have to go back to work.”

Zingiswa Mbambo from Cape Town enjoyed herself in Plett for the day, although she stayed in Knysna during her visit. “But now that I’m in Plett, I feel like changing my accommodation.

“I used to live on the Garden Route before moving to the Cape seven years ago, so it’s really nice to be here and have fun with my old buddies.”

Deck manager at Moby’s Aldo Botha said it was not that busy this year because of the recession. “I think many people chose to hold on to their money and spend time at home, so helping them to save.”

CENTRAL FUN FOR COUPLES: From left are Mzikayise and Linokuthula Gqodwana, and Simphiwe and Asive Hoho

LADIES LOVE THE BEACH: Nobongani Mbambo, Anathi and Nofezekile Fatyi, Cape Town resident Zingiswa Mbambo, Nwabisa Ntentile, and Khwezi Mbambo

From page 3 creative ways of transporting cleared material across the river.

“A challenge facing us in this task was finding teams with good swimmers. So we created a barge and are now able to transport all felled trees on it to the other bank.”

[Visit https://youtu.be/Vq3XOnOAJ_E to view.]

Park manager for GRNP Paddy Gordon says the Working for Water programme has multiple advantages.

“It creates work for locals, removes invasive alien plants, which is great for the river’s health, while ensuring more water to be released. Knysna River feeds the estuary, which is managed as a protected environment under the GRNP. The estuary, or course, opens up to the sea.”

The initiative to clear IAPs is one of several measures to promote conservation outcomes in the Park’s buffer zone, established around the Park as a strategy to protect its integrity.

Email nandi.mgwadlamba@sanparks. org with queries and visit https://youtu.be/ 5tzONuHGpYY to see an interview with Maretha Alant.

NEWS & VIEWS

17 January 2018

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CXPRESS

Using up one of nine lives: Phoenix survives near-certain death by caracal CXPRESS chatted to Plettenberg Bay designer Alice Evans after her tough little kitten survived an attack by a much bigger and wilder ‘brother’

T was around 7:30pm on Saturday December 23 when Alice heard cats fighting on the doorstep of her house on Heilbron Farm in Piesang Valley Road, the property being bordered by indigenous forest.

“I went immediately to go look and to my shock and horror, saw that it was my eight-month-old kitten, Phoenix, being mauled by a caracal!”

Her first reaction was to shout as loud as she could and to her great relief, the caracal dropped Phoenix and left him on the veranda before charging off into the dusk.

“But it looked like a scene from Dexter* - I really thought he would die in my arms right then and there,” Alice says.

Fortunately, Plettenberg Bay Veterinary Clinic is located down the road and immediately after receiving Alice’s call, Dr Jannie Naudé met her at his practice.

The outlook was not good at all: a possible broken neck and spinal injury.

“His neck was limp and he couldn’t move his body.

Jannie sedated him and gave him morphine and told me to go home. He said we can talk if Phoenix makes it through the night.”

So in Alice went the next morning, prepared for final goodbyes, all tears, her kids Roxy and Ryder in tow.

PAWS, the outcome would have been very different.

“I advise all your readers to think of those abandoned and rescued animals

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when looking for pets. They are as tough as nails and deserve loving homes.” * The often gruesome TV series about Dexter Mor-

gan, by day a forensics expert for the Miami police department, by night a serial killer with a thirst for the blood of other killers…

ONE LUCKY KITTY: Phoenix with Reta Smit at Plett Vet

“But when I spoke with Dr Tania Vermeulen, she said we should give him time. After two days he had lifted his head and drank some water!” But the biggest worry now was the fact that Alice was due to depart for Bali on Christmas day.

“Since there was no one to help care for my very broken kitten, Jannie offered for him to stay at the practice for two weeks, during which time friend Reta Smit visited him almost daily, and mom Carol Evans - “even though she is allergic to cats!” - took the kids to visit Phoenix as often as possible.

“On my return I couldn’t believe my eyes when I fetched him. Phoenix was walking, running and jump-

ing, and had even put on some weight! Huge thanks are due to Jannie and his entire team. Getting him out of his kennel and onto the lawn must have been the highlight of his day,” Alice smiles.

She also thanks everyone, including the vet staff, for keeping her updated via WhatsApp while she was so far away from home.

Phoenix is now happily back home, but Alice can still hardly believe what a fighter he had turned out to be. “We are so proud of him for surviving a caracal attack! Jannie said it would be a miracle if he survived - and there we have it, fully recovered!”

Finally, Alice believes if it weren’t for the fact that Phoenix was adopted from

Henk Nieuwoudt of CapeNature on caracal OOIKAT or caracal is typically cat, and thus they prey on a variety of other animals. Grown males can catch bigger buck, like grey or young bushbuck.

In our vicinity, it’s not unusual to see a group of

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four rooikat together. Not too long ago we saw three youngsters on Robberg, hunting dassies together.

All cats are competitive and will regard young house cats as prey, if the opportunity arises, in the same way

that leopard, for example, prey on rooikat in nature.

The only way to protect your pets is by adopting eating habits that prevent them from roaming around outside at night, when nocturnal caracal are on the prowl.

Welcome to our region. We have a water crisis with severe restrictions.

Thank you for playing your part in protecting this precious commodity.

Welkom in ons streek. Ons het ’n waterkrisis met streng beperkings.

Dankie dat jy help om hierdie kosbare hulpbron te beskerm.

Wamkelekile kwingingqi yethu.

Sikwixesha lobunzima bokunqaba kwamanzi elinezinyino eziqatseleyo.

Enkosi ngokudlala indima yakho ekukhuseleni la manzi anqabe kangaka.

We wish you a wonderful stay with us.

Ons hoop jy geniet jou verblyf by ons.

Sikunqwenelela uhlale nathi ngolonwabo olukhulu.

Alan Winde

Alan Winde

Alan Winde

Western Cape Minister of Economic Opportunities

Wes-Kaapse Minister van Ekonomiese Geleenthede

UMphathiswa wezaMathuba ezoQoqosho weNtshona Koloni

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CXPRESS

NEWS & VIEWS

17 January 2018

Murray High achievers concur: only hard work gets you through matric

TOP TEAM: At back are teachers Veliswa Khoboka (maths literacy), Pamela Grootboom (tourism), Williams Feziwe (business), Anele Zantsi (English) and Nikile Mayile (Xhosa), with Alulutho Ntsatha, Murray High principal Zinzile Bobi, and Zintle Ncedani in front

EMALES came out tops when Murray High matriculants collected their results this month.

Alulutho Ntsatha, 17, and Zintle Ncedani, 18, said they had to stop any “funny business” and only commit themselves to their studies.

“To be honest, success requires full commitment.

Busying yourself with boyfriends and alcohol suffocates students, and your progress in school is then sure to suffer.

“Everything in life requires attention and management. You must stop things that are not supporting your progress but pulling you down,” said Zintle.

“I had a child when I was 14 years old, because I was all over the place, wanting to be ‘the’ girl. I was drinking and sleeping wherever I wanted. When I got my baby, I thought it was all over.

“I had to start from the beginning to look for new friends and re-engineer my life. I am very happy with that decision. I realised that I was still a kid but I knew there was more to life.

“I have been accepted for medical studies at the University of Cape Town, so now I’m just waiting for funds. The sky is the limit.

Last year I didn’t have a boyfriend, because this can

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be delayed until I achieve my goals. Us young people must manage our vision and not allow outside circumstances to determine future lifestyles. Be the drive, not the passenger.”

Zintle thanked the teachers who moulded her, the students she teamed up with for studies, and her parents who never stopped listening, even when she was at her most rebellious.

“They didn’t give up on me. Now all I want to say to other youngsters is be disciplined, listen to your parents, and work hard on your studies. You need education to break your own ground. That is a first requirement in life.”

Zintle also paid tribute to her neighbour, Ntombi Wonci, who served as her personal motivator and role model on the basis of her academic achievements.

“She saw my potential, and told me of every high and low in her life. I learned that nothing comes easily - you sweat to get to the top.”

“My four-year old daughter is doing very well. When I study at UCT, it will be as a responsible parent. I am going there for my daughter’s sake,” she smiled.

Alulutho Ntsatha still finds it hard to believe that

she was the top Murray High matriculant. “I got a distinction next to my name, which makes my family, my teachers, and my friends very happy.

“I will study law at Rhodes University and am applying for a bursary from Bitou Municipality as we speak.

“I find law very interesting, and have enjoyed watching movies where lawyers fight it out in the courtroom. Once I am properly briefed about types of law, I will choose the most relevant direction.”

With an old sister studying marketing at Cape Peninsula University of Technology, Alulutho is her parents’ second child to pursue a university career.

“In matric, you must work really hard to succeed. I wanted to get good marks to create opportunities for myself, and I motivate those coming behind me to give their best.

“My family protected, motivated and encouraged me, so I became strong. I used previous matric examination papers and got help from my teachers all the time.

“I thank the new principal, Mr Zinzile Bobi, for the extra classes held at school, which propelled me to succeed,” said Alulutho.

BRIGHT STARS: Successful Murray High matriculants Alulutho Ntsatha and Zintle Ncedani, right

BUSINESS

17 January 2018

The more things change, the more they stay the same… yes?

Stuart Murray

HE French expression (translated in the headline) “plus ça change, plus c’est la même chose”, is a lasting expression coined by Alphonse Karr, editor of the French newspaper Le Figaro back in 1849.

But is life really inert?

We in South Africa have experienced lengthy periods of change - from the topical to the turbulent, the mediocre to the menacing, the laughable to the lamentable.

Perhaps some matters do stay the same: Cyril Ramaphosa is the new ANC leader, but Jacob Zuma is still president.

Will we see change? Can we expect transformation?

That’s heady stuff. Rather let’s look at a change issue of practical and current interest - particularly to those of us who live in the Garden Route, where the buying, selling, and renting of property is an everyday topic.

A somewhat radical new player on the real estate block is 3%.com, whose business profile appears to be in conflict with the rules and regulations of the real estate industry as defined by the Estate Agency Affairs Board (EAAB).

“Not so,” says attorney Maartens Heynike, CEO of the franchise operation ‘3 Percent Com Properties (Pty) Ltd. “There has never been a conflict with the Board.”

With anyone else - established estate agencies who may feel threatened, for example?

“Initially, when we launched 3%.com, the Law

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Society of the Northern Provinces advised us not to trade under that name, but under the professional name of the legal practice.

“Since then, opinion from senior counsel has been that it is legal if the practice name is used in conjunction with the name 3 Percent Com Properties.”

Are there no protests over the issue that 3%.com employees do not go through the demanding (and costly) study courses, internships, and exams resulting in qualifications which enable them to register and practice as estate agents as regulated by the EAAB? The Board provides a Fidelity Fund to safeguard customers and without its certification, individuals canvassing in the property market cannot, for example, draw up a mandate.

So what gives 3%.com agents indemnity?

Attorney Dale Hobbs, who holds the 3%.com Plettenberg Bay franchise, explains: “We, the attorneys, personally deal with the clients. Our canvassing representatives introduce us to potential sellers - and buyers - and we take it from there.

“So, we are essentially lawyers who sell property.

For example, we explain any offer to the seller and draw up the mandate, taking the sale through the normal conveyancing process. We will also assist with mortgage finance.”

Heynike Inc. Attorneys launched 3%.com as an in-house estate agency in May 2003. At that time it was intended as an estate agency solely for the practice.

The idea of developing

the business into a franchise model was conceived in 2007 and the first franchise was sold the following year. There are now more than 40 nationwide.

Heynike justifies the 3%.com concept further: “Attorneys have been selling immovable property since times immemorial.

When the Estate Agency Affairs Act was promulgated in 1976, attorneys were exempted provided they traded under their professional names, their business and trust accounts, and from their existing practices.

“This is exactly what our franchisees do. As attorneys, they not only have a Fidelity Fund Certificate underwritten by the Fidelity Guarantee Fund of the Law Society of South Africa, but are also highly qualified and trained as attorneys and conveyancers.”

But what about 3%.com’s sales reps - are they estate agents or not?

Says Heynike: “They play a key role in the marketing, sourcing of potential sellers and buyers, and negotiating the price and other terms.

“However, the finalisation of the agreement and the signing is attended to and co-signed by a qualified attorney or candidate attorney who have a professional duty to protect both seller and purchaser, not only in the selling process but also in the subsequent conveyancing process.

“Attorney agents are also covered by the relevant provincial law societies and enjoy the protection of the Fidelity

Guarantee Fund.”

An interesting point is that, as a rule of practice the choice of conveyancing attorney rests with the seller. However, it is not law; in reality the issue is open to negotiation.

How does it affect 3%.com if the buyer insists on appointing the conveyancing attorney, and the seller agrees? Surely 3%.com would lose out on the conveyancing income and be left with the commission income (3% of the selling price) to be split with the agent or agents?

Heynike explains: “It would still be a viable transaction. The conveyancing fee is in fact only equivalent to 1% of the purchase price.”

He adds: “The sale of immovable property in South Africa is enormous and we believe there is enough work for everybody. However, we do believe that the era of the high commission estate agent is over and that, in future, the standard commission will be between 3% and 5%.”

Of course, what makes ostensibly modest commission income really viable is the fact that the average value of residential property in South Africa has increased annually by leaps and bounds over the past decade.

The percentage cut may drop, but the overall take gets better every deal.

• Stuart Murray (stuartmurray758@gmail.com) is a former senior assistant editor of Financial Mail and co-founder, editor, and CEO of Finance Week. He is retired and lives in Plettenberg Bay.

Have you set your financial new year’s resolutions?

T’S a new year, and for many people this is the time to start afresh by setting new goals. During this process, it’s important to also include financial resolutions.

Eunice Sibiya of FNB says: “Facing up to one’s financial situation is not the easiest of tasks, especially when things are not looking good. Having come out of the festive season, it’s possible that some may have misspent their hard-earned money on festivities.

“The beginning of the new year is an opportune time to look back at financial mistakes committed in the past and chart a way for a new start.

“Getting your finances in order takes a lot of commitment and dedication, it’s not a once off process, and it may require facing

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some hard truths about your spending habits.”

Here are a few questions to help you to gauge if you need to relook your financial position: Are you in a financial whirlwind?

The ideal situation is to track what you are spending on. If you are unable to track your expenses, even the smallest amounts, then it’s time to pause and take a proper look at where your money is going and if it’s being spent wisely. This is the only way to put a lid on wastage.

Do you have financial goals?

Set financial goals, a budget and put a timeline to accomplishing them. For example, you may want to devise a plan for settling all or part of your debt, or start saving and investing. It all depends where

you are now and where you want to be. While it’s good to set goals, following through is important - you must commit to your goals.

Do you give into societal pressure?

One of the reasons some people never have a firm grasp on their finances is because they succumb to societal pressure. Understand your personal financial aspirations and work towards them, never try to mimic the lifestyles of others because everyone’s personal circumstances differ.

Have your financial plan and stick to it.

How can you avoid wastage?

Sometimes it can be difficult to spot wasteful spending simply because once you have fallen into the habit of frivolous spending it’s hard to stop and take note. The most

effective way to identify wasteful spending is to have a budget in which you record expenses, both fixed and unfixed.

A budget will help you have a clear sense of where your money is being spent and enable you to pick up areas where wastage occurs. Monitoring your statements will help you identify financial leakages.

Do you have savings?

Remember, it’s never too late to start saving, whether it’s for emergencies, education or retirement - if you haven’t started don’t procrastinate further. Start doing some homework about the different options that are available for you to start saving. While you may have to play catch up in areas such as retirement, it’s better than not having any savings at all.

CXPRESS

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GOOSE VALLEY HOA

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CXPRESS

INTERVAL

17 January 2018

‘Hare’ today, gone tomorrow man was driving along the highway, and saw a rabbit hopping across the middle of the road. He swerved to avoid hitting the rabbit, but unfortunately the rabbit jumped in front of the car and was hit.

The driver, being a sensitive man as well as an animal lover, pulled over to the side of the road and got out to see what had become of the rabbit.

Much to his dismay, the rabbit was dead. The driver felt so awful he began to cry.

A woman driving down the highway saw the man crying on the side of the road and pulled over.

She stepped out of her car and asked the man what was wrong.

“I feel terrible,” he explained. “I accidentally hit this rabbit and killed it.”

The woman told the man to relax - she knew what to do. She went to

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her car’s trunk and pulled out a spray can.

She walked over to the limp, dead rabbit, and sprayed the contents of the can on the rabbit.

Miraculously, the rabbit came to life, jumped up, waved its paw at the two humans and hopped down the road.

A few metres away the rabbit stopped, turned around, waved at the two again, hopped down the road another few metres, turned, waved, and hopped another few metres.

The man was astonished.

He couldn’t figure out what substance could be in the woman’s spray can.

He ran over and asked: “What did you spray on that rabbit?”

The woman turned the spray can around so that the man could read the label, which said: ‘Hare Spray - Restores Life to Dead Hare. Adds Permanent Wave’.

Cheap flights indeed Y wife asked me what I was doing on the computer last night. I explained to her I was looking for cheap flights.

“I love you,” she said,

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and then she got all excited, quickly undressed and we had the most amazing night ever.

This was odd, because she’s never shown any interest in darts before…

Sink or swim in the country man travelling down a country road was forced to stop before a giant puddle covering the entire road. Looking to the side of the road, the man noticed a farmer leaning on a fence.

“Think it’s safe to cross?” the man asked.

“I reckon so,” replied the farmer.

As the man drove in, the car was immediately

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swallowed by the puddle.

In fact, it was so deep that he had to roll his window down to swim out of his car and up to the surface.

As his head broke the surface, the man said to the farmer: “I thought you said I could safely drive through this puddle!”

“Well, golly,” said the farmer, scratching his head. “It only came up chest-high on my ducks.”

Guests, like fish, begin to smell after three days...

“IF YOU CAN MAKE A GIRL LAUGH, YOU CAN MAKE HER DO ANYTHING.” - MARILYN MONROE

WELL HELLO, LADIES

After the school holidays…

• During the holidays, my dad took me to the zoo.

They wouldn’t accept me, so he had to take me home again.

• This past summer I learned how to ride a

horse, and how to eat standing up.

• This summer I saw the biggest mosquitoes I ever saw in my life. They were so big they came equipped with landing gear.

SOCIAL SCENE

17 January 2018

People, places & events

RAGE: IT’S A (SLEEPING) FEELING: Anne from Plett Ski-boat Club shared this pic of Ragers who set up car-camp in the Central Beach parking lot in the early morning hours when they realised there was no room for them at friends’ houses.

“I captured these pics around 6am and when they woke up, shared some coffee with these very pleasant guys from Cape Town. I didn’t get their names but they were happy for me to forward the photos to CXPRESS,” chuckles Anne.

VEELS GELUK, LIEWE MURRAY: The photo above of Murray Pienaar, flanked by friend Annerie at left and sis Lourika, right, was taken two Sundays ago when this accomplished chef treated a handful of lucky ladies to a leisurely late lunch of to-die-for chicken salad. When it dawned on his friends at CXPRESS that this edition coincides with Murray’s birthday today, we thought it an apt occasion to congratulate this multi-talented Plettenberg Bay local, while wishing him luck with the upcoming Ironman challenge in East London on January 28. Fellow athletes and fans - and those who know Murray from his intricate involvement at Nguni restaurant - will remember his fundraising mission leading up to last year’s Ironman in Durban, when he could hardly stay ahead baking massive orders of delectable homemade koeksisters to bolster his funds for travel costs and entry fees.

The super-fit chef gained national fame, after all, as finalist in TV’s ‘Koekedoor’, so no wonder those ‘sisters soared! Having committed to a hat-trick of Ironman finishes, Murray will embark on another campaign preceding his participation in June, when this tough triathlon takes place in KZN once again - watch this space for details. But back to today’s celebration: here’s three cheers to marvellous Murray!

CRACKER DOES PLETT PROUD: Tessa Moxon of Plett Polo shared these photos and advised that the Polo International on December 29 was a well-attended affair, with the two 16-goal teams from SA and the UK consisting of the following players: South Africa’s Ryan Robertson (1), Ben Crowe (3), Dirk van Reenen (5), and Chris MacKenzie (7) against the United Kingdom’s Tim Ward (3), Freddie Horne (4), Alastair Paterson (3), and George Meyrick (6). After a spectacular battle, the final score of 8-6 went the UK team’s way, with Most Valuable Player of the day being Englishman Freddie Horne. Plett’s polo fraternity held the flag high, however, when ‘Cracker’ - owned by Doug Lund of Newstead Wines - was declared Best Playing Pony. Congrats! Pictured from left at top left are Doug, Freddie and Cracker, and the rest of the photos depict some of the on-field action, before the serious after-party started.

Photos: Rob Smith Photography

MAYOR JOINS KWANO IN WELCOMING FAMOUS ACTORS: DJ Mjilo hosted a successful year-end event at KwaNokuthula Stadium on December 31, supported by Bitou Municipality and Plett Tourism. He managed to pull in Lesley Musina, Raphaely Myende and Musa Ngema for the occasion, all of them being actors on TV’s ‘Muvango’ and ‘Generations’. This made Kwano locals very excited, because it’s not every day we get to meet in the flesh actors often seen on television.

Bitou mayor Peter Lobese, pictured second from right in red, also joined the artist to celebrate with the community.

The event was well attended in the beginning, as everybody wanted to end the year 2017 in grand style. But they were disappointed by the rain that started exactly at midnight, causing most people to take their separate ways. Even so, everyone agreed that the event was well-organised, with good security and fantastic sound equipment. DJ Mjilo said those who bought their tickets from Computicket and didn’t manage to come to the year-end party could hold on to their tickets for use at his next show, to take place before the winter season. “I am still working on my plans, but will let people know about the date and other details. I really appreciate all those who supported me,” he said. - Khaya Mbesi

CXPRESS

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CXPRESS

17 January 2018

Handyman on call - 082 492 4417

Paws

Plett Animal Welfare Service

CLASSIFIEDS

ON THE SOAPBOX

17 January 2018

Letters to the Editor

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

Does it matter which way we go?

I refer to the Plett Tourism report in its December 2017 Summer magazine - what a suitcase question for all Plettonians to ponder!

The question asked by Tourism in the above heading is not at all a rhetorical one, and clearly requires a participatory platform to enable all stakeholders to participate in this crucial response.

It is necessary to consult the Bitou Integrated Development Plan (IDP) document which together with many other comprehensive items relating to the formers’ strategy also refers to a number of the matters raised in the Plett Tourism article.

It is obviously important to ensure that a comprehensive local strategy is informed by the Provincial and National Strategy (NDP), provided that pragmatism prevails at local level. After all, one size does not fit all.

There are a number of KRAs (Key Result Areas) within the IDP set out with various degrees of prioritisation that appear to be governed by performance management KPIs (Key Performance Indicators), suggesting that balance scorecards are/will be put in place at all levels of Bitou Municipality.

This looks integrated on paper but the proof as they say, will be in the implementation of the strategic initiatives as measured by the performance management process. But they cannot do this on their own.

So what will Plett look like in 2030 or beyond?

This is where the IDP on a localised level falls glaringly short - there does not appear to be any definitive structural or spatial future laid out to ideally present the wider business and investment community with the necessary opportunities to galvanise into action.

At the same time, while there are many festivities/ sports, etc. events organised by Plett Tourism during various holiday seasons, there does not appear to be a clear integration with the IDP other than reference to the singular activity of ‘Tourism’.

A much more in-depth intelligent debate is required in order to project what the future of Plett should look like. Early indications (we await statistics) are that we experienced a significant lower influx of holiday makers over the December season - if correct, a telling warning sign that new strategic initiatives are

urgently required.

We are asked if we see the future as ‘Brand Plett’ as holiday (as is), maybe some industrial development, maybe developing into a large metropole, or degenerating into a complete town-failure of squalor and total poverty.

We are told population estimates are projected to grow from 60,000 to reach 140,000 by 2030; the airport may be expanded to allow increased air traffic (remember the small boat harbour outcry?), plus, plus…

A number of tourismbuilding initiatives are in train but there still appears to be a disconnect from an integrated strategy point of view with a pragmatic IDP, where resources are allocated, time lines set, and accountabilities measured.

A few initiatives have either ‘stalled’ or await resources. Tourism alone cannot continue to be the

sole anchor of the town.

“We are chasing a hedgehog approach when we should be thinking like foxes,” said Clem Sunter.

A strategic debate is a messy debate, but provided it is accompanied by unbiased input where no holy cows are allowed to exist, then it can deliver strategic initiatives rich in quality.

Prof Michael Porter documented: “The strategic process is about the choosing of a set of activities in order to deliver a competitive edge.”

If we don’t build a future Plettenberg Bay around a number of strategic initiatives, then we will continue to follow the one-trick pony concept of seasonal business, which is simply not sustainable as we compete for increased share-of-wallet, and economic sustainability of the future population.

Ian van Jaarsveld, Knysna

Don’t overlook this gem when travelling to the Cape

CXPRESS gives lizard wings Thank you so much for the charming article you wrote about my book and I [turn to page 24 of the December 20 edition at www.cxpress.co.za].

The Little Lizard has flown (even without his tail…) from the boot of my car, and as it turns

out, I was almost sold out by Tuesday evening and the last one went this morning.

I am really taken aback and extremely grateful.

I hope your staff at CXPRESS had a relaxed and enjoyable festive season.

Maxi Witte, Plett

THE RIVERSDALE EXPERIENCE: These images picture the exterior of the town’s Royal Hotel, above, and Riversdale’s Old Gaol - complete with resident gallows pole, below

Unwanted in New Horizons

Tina van Reenen of Marine Way Animal Hospital and Bitou CVC shared this sad news last week: “Claire Everard was dropping off someone when she noticed this poor animal - no owner and nobody ever reported it as lost. Just scrounging for food, it even wagged its tail when Claire approached it. The more we make the public aware the more we can do to clear our townships and poorer communities of these unwanted animals.

At Bitou CVC, we are always able to help - as does PAWS, but we also need the public’s awareness and of course donations towards petrol for the bakkie. Of course, donations to the PAWS charity shop are always welcome, too!” (Email Tina at bvanreenen@mweb.co.za to find out how you can contribute. - Eds.)

Most of us drive through Riversdale cursing the speed limits and neglecting to visit this intriguing town. Turn right (off the N2 when heading west) and drive through the centre to the many attractions.

The Royal Hotel features photographs in the reception of David Kramer, who produced the eponymous song. The Old Gaol, or ‘ou tronk’, was constructed by the Barry family in 1838 and used as a trading store. Displays here include various antiques and mementos, and it boasts a coffee shop/ restaurant - as well as the original gallows.

The gallows had to be transported from Swellendam by ox-wagon to perform the only ex-

ecution ever held in Riversdale. Gilbert Hay, of Heidelberg, was hung for committing murder in order to obtain money for the purchase of liquor!

Martin Briggs, Onrusrivier

CXPRESS

Read CXPRESS online at www.cxpress.co.za

La Luna

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CXPRESS

SPORT & ADVENTURE

17 January 2018

The heat is on as Jan Braai tackles next month’s TransCape kick-off in Knysna AN Braai, renowned for his National Braai Day initiative, will turn his attention to a fresh challenge when he participates in the Liberty TransCape MTB Encounter during February.

The 614km Western Cape race from Knysna to Franschhoek, hosted by ASG events in partnership with Stanlib and Volvo, starts on February 4.

After riding in 25 consecutive Cape Town Cycle Tours, Jan now plans to tick off another item on his cycling wish list.

An avid rider, he is equally adept on a mountain bike, having tackled events such as the Cape Epic, Wines2Whales and Berg&Bush.

He is thrilled to have an opportunity to ride in one of the “biggest races left on my bucket list”.

“It’s always been on my

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radar but the deal was sealed over a bottle of wine when I was on a cycling holiday in the Klein Karoo and met the founder of the event, Lenore Collett,” Jan said last week.

“They were doing a route recce and we happened to be staying at the same lodge.”

Jan, who grew up in Stellenbosch and now lives in Sea Point in Cape Town, heads the National Braai Day initiative, founded more than a decade ago.

“Since 2005, our aim has been to encourage all South Africans to unite around a fire, share our heritage and wave our flag on September 24,” he said.

“It’s a public holiday and we’re trying to position that date every year as our country’s national day of celebration, similar to St Patrick’s Day in Ireland or

Thanksgiving in the US. “In short, we want to get 50-million people around braai fires one day per year.”

In reply to an obvious question, he said with a chuckle: “My real name is Jan but my surname, as many might guess, is not Braai.

“Over time I have become known as Jan Braai or Jan, the guy from National Braai Day.” With braaiing as his job and cycling as his hobby, Jan is looking forward to the social aspect of the TransCape.

“The food definitely excites me,” he said, “but the TransCape also traverses a truly magnificent part of South Africa, with incredible scenery and beauty.

Riding point to point from Knysna to Cape Town will be a privilege.”

What he enjoyed most at

events such as these was hearing people’s stories, advice and tips, he said.

“Everyone has a trick up their sleeve and eventually you acquire a treasure trove of tacit knowledge by listening to all the tales.

“Through my television show, the books I write and various other media engagements, people usually know me better than I know them.

“Sitting next to guys and girls on a bicycle all day, talking nonsense, is also a great way to get to know people.”

Adding that the TransCape was famous for its fantastic food, Jan said he did not think he could improve the situation much.

“The catering and braai team at the event are very experienced and capable and, frankly, I don’t think they need my help.

“I will gladly eat a few testers while filling the chef’s wine glass. And if there are any water points with braai fires, I will be the guy who spends a while there.”

Not surprisingly, as a braai aficionado, Jan has some ideas on South Africa’s favourite tradition.

“In my view, the ingredients for the perfect braai are the view, a massive wood

GRID AND GRIT: Jan Braai, known for innovative grid-cooking skills, will test his ability on a bike when competing in the Liberty TransCape MTB Encounter from Knysna to Franschhoek

fire and good company.

“Also, if you’re in any doubt as to whether your fire is big enough, your fire is too small.

“I also advise quality over quantity. And if you think the meat is ready, it is - because 99% of meat is over-braaied.”

Seven days - 614km - 10,200m vertical ascent RANSCAPE 2018 takes 270 intrepid adventurers over 614km and 10,200m of vertical ascent during seven incredible stages from picturesque Knysna to Franschhoek in the Cape Winelands.

It’s an all-inclusive, unforgettable luxury off-the-bike experience and an incred-

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ibly rewarding on-the-bike journey over some of the finest mountain-biking terrain in the country.

The route • Stage 1: Knysna to Wilderness - 71km; 1,350m ascent • Stage 2: Wilderness to Mossel Bay - 86km; 1,900m ascent • Stage 3: Hartenbos to Riversdale (rollercoaster

stage) - 102km; 1,600m ascent • Stage 4: Riversdale to Swellendam - 106km; 1,500m ascent • Stage 5: Swellendam to Greyton 99km; 1,200m ascent • Stage 6: Greyton to Houwhoek (Cape wagon stage) - 74km; 1,050m ascent • Stage 7: Houwhoek to Franschhoek - 73km; 1,850m ascent.