17 May 2017` by CXpress

17 May 2017

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Photo: Yolandé Stander

A Cross Cape feeling! Bitou mayor Peter Lobese adjusts provincial minister Alan Winde’s Plett Tourism buff bearing the famous ‘It’s a feeling’ slogan before officially starting the inaugural Cross Cape Cycle Tour last Friday - read the story on page 5

‘New deal’ signed in Bitou

Dame Shirley departs

Three decades of riding!

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NEWS & VIEWS

17 May 2017

Henk’s Little Travelogue: Australia/Tasmania/New Zealand - Part V

A ploughman’s feast concludes our must-do cruise Itinerant contributor HENK BOLHUIS is currently exploring the wonders of Down Under with his wife Rentia, and will entertain CXPRESS readers for the next six weeks with his travel tales and images - turn to page 2 of the previous four editions at www.cxpress.co.za to catch up AST week’s story saw the start of our Hawkesbury River cruise on Australia’s only active mail boat, The Riverboat Postman; it continued thus on March 27… As we slowly go up the beautiful meandering river, travelling between Long Island on our left and Spectacular Island on our right, and just before we pass underneath the M1’s (Pacific Highway) road and railway bridges, we first make a very brief stop at Kangaroo Point. It is situated on the left river bank and as we slow down without really stopping, a crew member quickly throws a small parcel into the hands of someone standing on the jetty’s edge. Next into view comes Milson Island - another islet in the middle of the river in a part called Milson’s Passage; lush with greenery and rich in native bird life - it, too, is only accessible by boat. First settled by Europeans just over 100 years ago, it has in the past housed a mental hospital, with a specific alarm system to warn locals when any of the ‘mad people’ had managed to escape; later on, the facilities were used as a jail. Nowadays, however, it is a favourite sport and recreation centre that still uses the old refurbished sleeping quarters, dining room, and kitchen. As the boat moors at the jetty, we are greeted by ‘The Finance Minister and Mayor of the Republic of Milson’s Passage’ who, sitting regally with a crown on his head in a big easy chair on the jetty, welcomes us

SCRAPING NEW SOUTH WALES SKIES: Sydney’s impressive CBD as seen from the ferry to Manley Beach

with a brief speech and then collects the mail on behalf of ‘his subjects’. Next stop is Bar Point - a small peninsula on the north bank of the river. But before arriving there, we pass on our right side the old rusted wreck of HMAS Parramatta. This torpedo boat destroyer was the first of six built to serve as fast ‘hunters’ of the British River Class design by Fairfield Shipbuilding at Govan in Scotland. It served with distinction during WWI in the waters around New Guinea, the Mediterranean, and near the famous Gallipoli battlefield. Although some of Bar Point can be accessed by land, it can only be done by four-wheel drive vehicles. The private shoreline properties, however, can only be reached by boat, hence the ferry service. Two young ladies are waiting on the jetty for a ride back to Brooklyn, and they board after deliveries are dropped. The “All clear!” gets us going again.

As we start our return trip south to Brooklyn, the crew serves an exceptionally tasty ploughman’s lunch of fresh bread, cheese, cold meats and salads and, of course, more of the lovely coffee. Before arriving we make one last brief stop, this time at Fisherman’s Point on the west bank. Again within a minute or two, we are back midstream for the final part of this lovely outing. We arrive back at Brooklyn jetty just after 1pm and in my opinion - just as NSW’s TripAdvisor states - this excursion is a must-do if you ever visit this part of Australia. And at R450 per person, all included, it is excellent value for money. Tuesday March 28: Boarding a ferry to Manley Beach Sydney was lashed by heavy rains, partly the result of Cyclone Debbie - a category 4 tropical storm that hit the Australian East coast about 1,400km to the north, around 2pm on March 23. It caused havoc, severe flood-

ing resulting in some deaths and millions of dollars of damage in many of the coastal towns of South East Queensland. But yesterday’s weather was beautiful, and the sun shines brightly once more as we set off to catch our ferry to Manley Island. The train from North Sydney to the CBD lets us off at Martin Place Station and we walk down Macquarie Street (past my friend Trim at the NSW State Library) to the New Zealand Visa Application Office at 66 Hunter Street. After completing the necessary documents, we walk to Wynyard Station and from there another train delivers us to Circular Quay, a popular tourist attraction with lovely walkways, restaurants and parks. Apart from the train station and bus terminal, a number of ferry quays include Wharf 3, whence the ferry to Manley departs. First known as Sydney Cove, it is also of historical significance as the site of the initial landing on January 26, 1788, by the British First Fleet - a convoy of 11 ships that had left England roughly nine months earlier on May 13, 1787. Apart from seamen, the ships also carried a large number of convicts (estimated at more than 1,000) and their guards, as well as ‘free people’ and civil servants. They were the first real settlers in Australia, and it became the focal point from which the city, later named Sydney, started to grow. To be continued…

NEWS & VIEWS

17 May 2017

CXPRESS

No ‘blank cheque’ for Bitou DA, but ANC out for now Following lengthy coalition negotiations the DA is back at the helm in Bitou, albeit under strict conditions - YOLANDÉ STANDER reports ITOU’S new coalition became official after mayor and Active United Front (AUF) secretary Peter Lobese announced last Saturday that his party had made a decision to enter into a coalition agreement with the DA, since its relationship with the ANC had deteriorated over the past eight months. Following the local government elections last year - which saw Bitou become a hung council with both the ANC and the DA obtaining six seats in council and the AUF the final position the AUF and ANC entered into a coalition agreement. Last month, however, Lobese announced that the party intended to end the agreement after a series of issues Lobese labelled as

“making it impossible to justify” the relationship. He claimed that the ANC had not only frustrated attempts to establish clean administration and to commit resources to address the difficulties faced by Bitou residents, but also did not implement their coalition agreement and had failed to sign a service delivery plan agreed upon. Since this announcement, Lobese invited both the ANC and the DA - which controlled the municipality over the past five years as part of a coalition and then as an outright majority - to start coalition negotiations afresh. Saturday’s announcement, when the mayor evealed that the DA had been successful, thus hailed the conclusion

of this process. In a statement, Lobese said that the newly-formed relationship was one of a “unity for opposites for a functional government with pro-poor service delivery objectives”. He said the two parties had entered into a “propoor cooperation agreement” based on growing the local economy and improving the lives of Bitou residents. “As was the case with the ANC, the AUF has not given the DA a blank cheque,” Lobese said. And to ensure that the DA holds up its end of the bargain, several structures had been put in place to monitor and implement the stipulations of the agreement. “The AUF needs a part-

Environmental pioneer passes on It is with sadness that CXPRESS learnt of the passing of world-famous environmental champion Dr Robbie Robinson, founder of the Tsitsikamma Marine Protected Area and Otter Trail, who on May 15 lost a battle with cancer at his Knysna home. Robinson served as CEO of SANParks and later as chair of the Eden to Addo Corridor Initiative. A celebration of his life will be held at Ouland Royale in Plett at 2:30 on May 20. Our condolences go to his wife Jo, their children, and loved ones.

New deal a performance-management contract Mike Kantey

T’S official: the Active United Front in the person of Bitou mayor Peter Lobese has formed a “coalition of opposites” with the DA in Plettenberg Bay’s local municipality. According to AUF press release, the AUF and DA coalition is “a unity of opposites for a stable environment, service delivery, and the transformation of local communities”. It continues that this arrangement might work or not, depending on whether the DA “walks the talk”. The AUF asserts it is not a political party but rather a “united front” of active local citizenry with socialist ideals, knowing full well that “both the ANC and

DA continue to champion neo-liberal policies”. Said Lobese: “We are encouraged by recent calls from working-class organisations that SA needs a pro-poor workers’ party to transform the country into a socialist state. “In order for socialism to succeed, however, we need a stable environment both socially and economically, where all people have a chance for a better life.” The AUF further claims that the “divorce” from the ANC was “not based on hatred but rather opposing moral values and principles. Our subsequent partnership with the DA is neither based on like ideology or policies, nor differences in race…” The long germination of

this “new deal” implies that a concrete deal was struck between the DA and the AUF - what AUF leaders are calling “a performancemanagement contract”. Apparently, both parties were asked to “come up with the best servicedelivery offers”, but “the ANC could not bring a well-coordinated road-map in terms of service delivery for the people of Bitou Municipality”. “We had hoped that the ANC would bring its provincial leadership to salvage this situation, and its failure to do so by the conclusion of negotiations on May 2, has ultimately led the AUF to this point and clearly the loss of an opportunity for the ANC to redeem themselves.”

nership that brings a better offer for service delivery and economic upliftment of our people. The coalition government will be based on racial integration through special development, clean governance, ‘pro-poor’ service delivery and social as well as economic development. “We have identified and agreed on a number of projects that will improve the

social cohesion and economy of the town for job creation,” Lobese said. Bitou ANC sub-region chairman Howard Smith said they were happy the negotiations had been concluded, but that the ANC had always refused to be part to mismanagement of municipal resources and political interference in the administration. He added that the party had commit-

ted itself to clean governance. “The ANC will go back to the opposition benches and become an effective opposition. Being the propoor movement, the ANC calls on its councillors to focus on championing the needs of the poor,” Smith said in a statement. Garden Route Media • Also read the opinion piece on this page.

CXPRESS

NEWS & VIEWS

17 May 2017

OBITUARY

Leigh Dunn

End of an era: Shirley Harker passes away gracefully on Mother’s Day OST all Bitou locals know the Harkers of Plettenberg Bay - in fact, the site of the town’s Harker graves has been declared a national monument. Shirley was the last of that generation and her passing last Sunday hails the end of an era indeed. Shirley Rademeyer was born in Port Elizabeth on February 23, 1927. She married Michael Harker of Plettenberg Bay in 1944, after which the couple moved to the farm Volmoed near Oudtshoorn. They both served as teachers in the Klein Karoo’s rural communities until their return to Michael’s hometown of Plett, where the Harker residence was located in Church Street where Albergo Backpackers is situated today. From there they moved to the huge Harker family estate in Marine Drive, on the site of Mediclinic Plettenberg Bay. When the Group Areas Act forced the family to move to New Horizons in 1968, the Harkers owned the first properties in this neighbourhood, where Shirley promptly established Theodora Pre-school. Michael and Shirley had

MOTHER TO MANY: Shirley Harker (23 February 1927 - 14 May 2017) filled motherly shoes for many a Plett resident over the years, while being the Harker family matriarch who pioneered several charitable causes

six children - Rufus, Dora, Lionel, Eugene, Sybil, and Louise. Community workers in the true sense of the word, Shirley and Michael each served terms as town councillors for many years. Both of them were part of the Van Plettenberg Centenary celebrations in 1978, when they invited luminaries like professor Chris Barnard and national ministers to join in the town’s festivities. Shirley’s community in-

volvements continued after her husband fell away, and she played an integral part in the establishment of Plett’s Child and Family Welfare Association. She served as Formosa Primary’s first School Governing Body chairperson, and established the New Horizons Pensioners Forum, to mention but some of her involvement in educational and religious circles. As long-serving Rotarian, she also received an award from then Plett Rotary president Ruby Chetty. The saying goes: “As we live, so we will die.” And that is exactly the case in the life of our beloved Aunty Shirley. She was busy serving her community on the morning of Mother’s Day, Sunday May 14, as guest speaker at a special breakfast at St Mary’s Church. She addressed a full hall of New Horizons ladies just moments before her passing. Her talk touched on the life of Mother Theresa, and she encouraged mothers to embrace their children and be an example for their bright futures. At the age of 90, she was still incredibly organised and distributed printed hand-outs

to the ladies at her Mother’s Day presentation. Aunty Shirley concluded her speech and told the ladies that they were now free to have a sip of champagne. It was just after 11am when she then sat down gracefully and collapsed into her seat. The last person whom she spoke to was Myrna Windvogel, who regarded her as Plett’s very own Mother Theresa: “That’s how we will always remember her.”

Aunty Shirley’s relatives were immediately informed and we arrived on the scene moments later - a scene bearing the most beautiful testimony of serving a community right up to the end. We salute this woman of courage who has been a beacon of hope to us all. How many of us would still be in demand as guest speaker aged 90? Aunty Shirley was our matriarch and mother to many, so her

Mother’s Day departure struck a bittersweet chord among us all. We will celebrate Shirley Harker’s life during a requiem mass at 11am on Saturday May 20 at St Christopher’s in Church Street, Plettenberg Bay. (Viewing of the body, for those who want to say final good-byes, will take place at 8:30am at Perks in Rawson Street, Knysna. Call 044 382 1271 for details.)

GRAND OCCASION: Celebrating ‘Aunty’ Shirley’s 90th birthday at The Grand Café in Plett three months ago were, with her from left, granddaughter Donne, youngest daughter Louise, and eldest daughter Dora, with Shirley’s son, Lionel, at right

Illegal dumping in Bitou: Keurbooms residents on full alert Laurence Parkman

HE scourge of illegal dumping has intruded to such an extent in Keurbooms that residents are now busy naming and shaming anyone found to be guilty of this ‘anti-social’ and illegal practice. Local police are at present applying sanctions to a contractor found guilty of dumping waste on the Old N2 (P1888) hill which is a popular viewing point above Keurbooms. Looking at the extent of dumping as depicted in the images below, this is by no means an isolated incident with evidence of domestic, garden, commercial and builders’ waste found on various viewpoints along this scenic route. Plettenberg Bay Crime Prevention Association (PBCPA) chairman Bruce

Richardson published an opinion entitled ‘They walk among us’ in the local press as far back as February 2016, highlighting the extent of this problem throughout Bitou and encouraging any witnesses to such acts of illegality to report them to the relevant authorities in order for the law to take its course. (Richardson can be contacted at windflower@telkomsa.net and any pictures or car registration numbers you can supply will assist with follow-up action). Said Keurbooms Property Owners Association (KPOA) chairman Pieter Luttig: “The KPOA fully supports a clean environment which we all proudly share with each other and also offer to visitors. “Our Association wants to see that illegal dumping culprits are caught and

SCENIC ROUTE SPOILT: These photos demonstrate how illegal dumping destroys the beauty of several viewpoints and other scenic spots along the old N2 hill to Keurbooms Photos: Etienne Marais and Claire Parkman

fined as individuals not having respect for their environment or their fellow inhabitants. In this regard, we are interacting with the responsible provincial and municipal road officials in an effort to upgrade maintenance and increase supervision in the area.” So the message is that Keurbooms residents are watching, and any individual who is determined to spoil our environment to save the minimal cost of correct disposal, will be reported to the authorities and brought to book. Plett readers are encouraged to do the right thing and rather than contribute to the problem, give of their time or resources to the Keep Plett Clean campaign so admirably run by Alison Bryant, and support the KPOA in its upgrade initiatives.

NEWS & VIEWS

17 May 2017

Plett the ‘alpha and omega’ of cycling route project The inaugural ride of an epic cycling route between Plettenberg Bay and Cape Town, developed to grow local economies along the way, got underway in Plett last Friday - YOLANDÉ STANDER reports

CXPRESS

Visit www. westerncape. gov.za and type ‘Cross Cape Cycle Tour’ into the Search space to find out what you can expect to see along this spectacular trans-provincial trek, with photos and detailed maps serving as appetisers. You can also look forward to the Cross Cape Facebook page currently under construction.

Valuation Day with Visiting Specialists WHOOP-WHOOP! Western Cape MEC for economic opportunities Alan Winde delights in leading the pack of cyclists who set off from Plett’s Main Street to embark on the first-ever Cross Cape route, scheduled to conclude in Stellenbosch tomorrow - at right is Leslie Jacobs, Bitou Municipality’s manager of Local Economic Development and Tourism - Photo: Yolandé Stander

HE Cross Cape was created to sow a seed of entrepreneurship in communities along the way - these were the sentiments of Western Cape MEC for economic opportunities Alan Winde just before he jumped on his own bike to complete the 742km route between Plett and Stellenbosch. The inaugural ride, led by Winde and including a handful of locals invited to participate, started in the town’s Main Street around 8:30am. “The inaugural ride officially opens the route and we are very excited about the economic opportunities it will unlock in towns along the way,” Winde said. He added that examples included bike repair, accommodation, restaurants and watering holes, and even bike parks. “If you’ve been on your bike the entire day, you want a warm shower and something good to eat,” Winde explained. He added that individual riders would be able to complete the route, event organisers could arrange races,

and local entrepreneurs would package their own offerings around the route. “There is no cost to ride the route, and it is open to all throughout the year.” Cross Cape is an initiative of government’s Project Khulisa growth strategy, which outlines a set of action plans in high-potential sectors namely tourism, agriprocessing, and oil and gas. Part of the project’s target is adding a further 100,000 jobs to the tourism sector. “We’re incredibly excited and proud to launch the new Cross Cape Cycle Route. This route will provide cyclists in the Cape with dynamic trails as well as a multitude of invigorating experiences ranging from delicious culinary offerings to awe-inspiring sights and sounds,” Wesgro chief executive Tim Harris said. Bitou mayor Peter Lobese said he was incredibly grateful that the small coastal holiday town had been made part of the initiative. “This is going to play a major role in business development and become an economic driver for our

town,” Lobese said. A sign will be erected in Main Street indicating the start and the end, depending on which direction riders take, of the route. “We are the alpha and omega of the route,” Lobese quipped. Winde said that the route also gave visitors the opportunity to experience the Western Cape in a different way. “You get to see areas beyond the N2 and places you might not have seen under normal circumstances,” Winde said. He added that he hoped one day the idea would move beyond the province’s borders. “Maybe we’ll take the route into the Eastern Cape, to Addo and further.” The route includes worldclass trails through some of the Western Cape’s hidden gems. Winde said that his vision for the project was that it becomes a “bucket-list” activity for cycling enthusiasts. More than R4-million was invested into the initiative, which will include road track, mountain trails, jeep and forest tracks.

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NEWS & VIEWS

17 May 2017

Rheenendal Primary selected for launch of water-wise play NYSNA Ward 5 councillor and executive mayor Eleanore Bouw-Spies was delighted to launch the water-themed educational theatre piece My Silent Noise at Rheenendal Primary School on May 9. During March, Knysna Municipality announced Level 3 water restrictions and immediately set its awareness campaign into action. Bouw-Spies suggested that this drive included a stage show to help educating Greater Knysna scholars with regard to the restrictions, as well as offering water-saving tips. Local thespian Mandisa Litoyi of Redefined 101 fame created and produced this educational theatre show, roping in talented unemployed residents as actors. Following weeks of rehearsals, Rheenendal was chosen as venue for a most successful launch event. After watching the performance, scholars were asked what they had learned from the play, and several insightful responses were received. The youngsters were also enthralled by the SABC TV crew on hand to capture this inaugural play. Said Bouw-Spies: “The initiative to create awareness around our water situation and this scarce resource is crucial, and starting with our youth is vital to get the message across. “As a former educator, I believe it is important to include children in this campaign as they have a significant role to play when it comes to conserving water and influencing behaviour

BE PART OF IT: The actors interacting with Rheenendal Primary scholars during the play

ENTERTAINED: Mayor Aleanore Bouw-Spies clearly enjoying the performance

of their parents at home. “What makes this particular educational play even more special is that it is providing opportunities for our unemployed youth. Through this initiative, eight young actors have the chance to not only showcase their talent, but to receive short-term employment as well,” said the mayor. Having received the necessary permission from the Western Cape Department of Education, the play will now be performed at the 21 schools in Greater Knysna. Each show is tailor-made to

suit the specific scholars with regard to language, age, and their resident communities. In closing, the mayor said: “Using water sparingly is everybody’s responsibility, young and old. I am thoroughly impressed with the educational yet fun content created by the Redefined team, and I’m so happy that this opportunity was given to our own local talented youth. “With such initiatives, we will not only create water awareness but build a town where both youth and nature can prosper.”

Hackers nuke aliens from airport approach OME 16 members of the Plett Botanical Group tackled the approach road to Plett Airport on Saturday May 6, clearing away alien invasive vegetation and picking up rubbish. These volunteers contributed R30 each to cover the costs of refreshments, as well as poison applicators to prevent regrowth of aliens. Says the group’s Jean Sparg: “This important entrance to our town requires further attention, as does the garden at Plett Airport’s terminal building. Contributions to this project in cash or physical participation would be most welcome.” On seeing the volunteers hard at work, one of the hanger owners gave a generous donation that was very much appreciated by the merry band of hackers. By all accounts, the cooperation between members, their gardeners, and Jeremy Basson of Bitou Municipality made the hack a

TAKING NO PRISONERS: Plett Botanical Group members including Jean, Paul, Sally, Julie, Jill, Annabelle and Gretchen were among the party that ended the reign of many an invasive species on the airport approach road two Saturdays ago

most satisfying and worthwhile exercise. Should you wish to support this initiative, please call Jean on 044 533 1662 or 072 195 7722, or Paul

Falla on 044 533 1257 or 076 710 9277. Details of the group’s next outing, scheduled for June 3, will be announced later this month.

BUSINESS

17 May 2017

CXPRESS

A matter of trust: George attorneys shed some light ANIE Acker and Anél Cloete of Rauch Gertenbach Attorneys provided answers to these FAQs on the subject of trusts. Are there different types of trusts? Yes, there are Testamentary trusts (also called Mortis Causa trusts) and Inter Vivos trusts, which are classified into Court Order, Discretionary, and Charitable trusts How do different types of trusts come into existence? A testamentary trust comes into existence at the

death of the testator/testatrix and the contents of the trust deed is found in the will. An Inter Vivos trust is created during the lifetime of the founder or by means of a court order. Inter vivos (‘between the living’) is a legal term referring to a transfer or gift made during one’s lifetime. What is the objective of trusts? The main objective is to protect and maintain assets in the trust to the advantage of its beneficiaries. The assets are excluded from the

estate of the founder and the beneficiaries. What does ‘beneficiary’ entail? There are two types, namely Capital and Income beneficiaries, the former being entitled to the capital of the trust while the latter benefits from income generated in the trust. This may be the same person. What is a ‘trustee’? A trustee is a natural or juristic person with a nominee appointed to administer the trust and its assets. Trustees have a duty to act

Investor Focus URING the late 19th Century populist uprisings were not uncommon. In the USA, farmers and labourers were the main constituents of the People’s Party; this evolved into the Populist Party with its capitalist interests, which were perceived to be driving inequality. The party called for the nationalisation of essential economic infrastructure, particularly the railways, and was very critical of private banking. Over time, it evolved into today’s Democratic Party. Since then, a number of presidents have followed populist policies, and Trump in particular. The US working class income has remained virtually unchanged for over 30 years, while the elite seems to have prospered. By the early 20th Century populism emerged in Eu-

located, e.g. if assets are based in Beaufort West, the trust will be registered at the Master’s Office in Cape Town. Normally trusts are created with one asset, e.g. a R100 donation. What are the Master’s duties? The Master of the High Court supervises the administration of trusts in his/her jurisdiction area. Masters have the power to appoint/ remove trustees and register/dissolve trusts. They may request that trustee/s supply financial statements and

may launch investigations into the administration of trusts by the trustee/s. Does a trust have separate legal personality? No, a trust is not regarded as a legal person with a separate legal personality, except in terms of the Income Tax Act. The trust is represented by trustees in that capacity. Must trusts be registered for tax purposes? Yes, all trusts are required to register for income tax. • Email office@rgprok. co.za for additiona information.

Malcolm Stewart – Investment manager at Michaelides Parker Wealth Knysna & Plett

Politics, politics, and more politics!

with the necessary care, skill and diligence expected from someone in that position, and are expected to manage and protect trust assets to benefit the beneficiaries. Failing to do so may result in removal by court order or by the Master of the High Court, who now insists that independent trustees be appointed. Where does one register a trust? Trusts are registered at the Master’s Office with jurisdiction over the area where the majority of assets is

rope; fuelled by the postWorld War I depression, it resulted in the rise of nationalism in France, Franco in Spain and, ultimately, Hitler in Germany. The past four decades have seen economic stability, consistent growth, and economic policies focused on creating jobs and getting people employed. Inflation then started raising its ugly head, which resulted in a revolt by Western creditors. This resulted in the election of Thatcher and Reagan, both of whom actively pursued policies to lower inflation and break trade unions, benefiting the wealthy more than the indebted workers. In SA, the turning political tide bears worrying characteristics of other populist regimes, i.e. xenophobia, challenges to the free press, interference with institutions and the judiciary, a

rejection of conservative Western economic policies, demands to capture or nationalise private assets, and an ‘us versus them’ rhetoric. The experience of countries such as Chile and Peru is very similar, where extreme poverty led to populist governments taking control. With IMF guidance, their new radical economic policies resulted in highly expansionary growth, fuelled by expanding credit, and policies focused on the redistribution of income and job creation. Bottlenecks ultimately emerged as domestic demand rapidly expanded and import demand escalated, thus putting pressure on reserves. Inflation, exchange controls, and deteriorating fiscal balances led to economic collapse and unstable politics. European politics is similarly unstable, with populist emotions stirred by massive

immigration. The populist trend in the UK resulted in Brexit, after all. So how do retirees protect their retirement nest eggs from this global trend - particularly as much of it is disconcertingly close to home? It is clear that a global groundswell is happening, and that inequality is the fundamental driving force in global politics. Diversification is probably the best option. A percentage of one’s assets must be allocated towards a globallybased portfolio that has a balance of both equities and

interest bearing investments, i.e. bonds or property. The local constituent should generate your primary income, as local interest rates are far higher than those available offshore. Local dividend yields are currently attractive, particularly in companies with offshore exposure. However, the global and domestic situations are very volatile with various regions at different stages of political evolution. A cash holding will enable you to earn income while allowing you to participate in

any opportunities that may arise in this environment. It is now of utmost importance to be nimble and ensure that your seat-belts are fastened, but do not be panicked out of the markets. Sound companies with good managers will always survive, no matter the climate. (Much of the economic history detailed in this article emanates from Coronation Asset Managers.) • Malcolm has been in the investment industry for nearly 50 years, and is a specialist in managing retired wealth.

CXPRESS

INTERVAL

17 May 2017

The meaning of the Breaking up with a soldier soldier was deployed dier would do. He went to Afghanistan. While around to his buddies and word ‘chutzpah’ A he was there he received a collected all the unwant-

HUTZPAH is a Yiddish word meaning gall, brazen nerve, effrontery, sheer guts plus arrogance; it’s Yiddish and, as Leo Rosten writes: “No other word and no other language can do it justice.” This example is better than a thousand words read this true story and then you’ll understand: THE ESSENCE OF CHUTZPAH A little old lady sold pretzels on a street corner for 25 cents each.

Every day a young man would leave his office building at lunch time and as he passed the pretzel stand, he would leave her a quarter, but never take a pretzel. This went on for more than three years. The two of them never spoke. One day, as the young man passed the old lady’s stand and left his quarter as usual, the pretzel lady spoke to him. Without blinking an eye she said: “They’re 35 cents now.”

‘Dear John’ letter from his girlfriend. In the letter, she explained that she had been out on dates with two guys while he had been gone and she wanted to break up with him. To add insult to injury, she said she wanted back the picture of herself that she had given him. So the soldier did what any squared-away sol-

ed photos of women he could find. In all, he gathered more than 25 pictures of various women (some with clothes on and some without). He then mailed them to his now-former girlfriend with the following note: “I don’t remember which one you are. Please remove your picture and send the rest back.”

The refrigerator man woman visits her psychiatrist and says: “Doctor, you’ve got to do something about my husband - he thinks he’s a refrigerator.’’ “I wouldn’t worry too much about it,’’ the

shrink replies. “Lots of people have harmless delusions. It will pass.’’ “But you don’t understand,’’ the woman insists. “He sleeps with his mouth open, and the little light keeps me awake.’’

Signs of the times • A sign in a shoe repair store: “We will heel you. We will save your sole. We will even dye for you.” • At an optometrist’s office: “If you don’t see what you’re looking for, you’ve come to the right place.” • On a plumber’s truck: “We repair what your husband fixed.” • On an electrician’s truck: “Let us remove your shorts.” • On another plumber’s truck: “Don’t sleep with a drip. Call your plumber.” • At a car dealership: “The best way to get back on your feet - miss

a car payment.” • In a veterinarian’s waiting room: “Be back in five minutes. Sit... Stay...” • At an electric company: “We would be delighted if you send in your payment on time. If you don’t, YOU will be de-lighted.” • In the front yard of a funeral home: “Drive carefully. We’ll wait.” • In a radiator repair shop: “Best place in town to take a leak.” • Sign on the back of a septic tank truck: “Caution - this truck is full of Political Promises.”

Two students chatting… ON sees Eric and asks: “What’s up?” Eric replies: “First I got tonsillitis, followed by appendicitis and pneumonia. After that I got erysipelas with hemochromatosis. Following that, I got poliomyelitis

and finally ended up with neuritis. Then they gave me hypodermics and, finally, inoculations.” “Boy, you had quite a time,” Jon exclaims. “I’ll say - I thought I’d never pull through that spelling test!”

Necessity breeds ingenuity...

SOCIAL SCENE

17 May 2017

CXPRESS

IT’S ALL ABOUT THE MUSIC: The Wits Trio of Zanta Hofmeyer on violin, Maciej Lacny on cello, and Malcolm Nay on piano gave a superb performance of works by Franz Schubert, Johannes Brahms and Astor Piazzolla at the fourth Knysna-Plett Concert of the year, held on the evening of Monday May 8. Among the large audience that gave the Trio a standing ovation were, at right from left, Jacqueline and Rolf Lamprecht, Nicki Friedlein and Liezie Mulder, all of Knysna. Below, Barry and Sue Lipschitz of Plettenberg Bay flank Jessica Stevens - a talented musician who moved to the Garden Route from Perth, Australia, in February this year. And if you know a bit about music and would like to test your knowledge, please diarise Friday June 2 when Plett’s Bowling Club plays host to ‘The Complete Music Quiz’ from 6:30pm onwards. Entry at R480 per team of six players max includes a wholesome supper, and all proceeds go to Plett’s Nippers and young martial arts students. Contact Barry Ricketts on 072 890 6238 or at barryricketts48@hotmail.com for details.

People, places & events

Photos: Timothy Twidle

BRUSHING SHOULDERS ACROSS THE CAPE: At the launch of the Cross Cape Cycle Route in Plettenberg Bay on the morning of Friday May 12, Eden District mayor Memory Booysen bumped into a friend of many years, Maureen Wiesie of Kranshoek, left. Below, local cycling enthusiast Johan Bronkhorst, left, had a moment to chat with Garden Route Biosphere Reserve chairman Errol Finkelstein before hitting the road west on the inaugural provincial traverse. Read the story on page 5.

La Luna

MOUNTAIN RESCUER EXTRAORDINAIRE: Mac McKechnie of WWISA shared this pic and wrote: “I caught Plett resident Rogan Hindmarch of AfriCanyon in a pretty serious moment while roaming around with my camera at Monday’s start of Expedition Africa in Cape St Francis. While he and his team are again doing the ropes/abseil part of the event, they also carry a massive responsibility by doubling up on the mountain rescue side to extract any of the 156 competitors, should they come to grief in the Baviaans Wilderness area. Outside of his business responsibilities, Rogan spearheads the training portfolio of the local mountain rescue sector.” Kudos indeed to Mr Hindmarch & Co - watch this space for news on the results of three participating Plett teams, and turn to page 11 for more Expedition Africa News.

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A U C T I O N

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A U C T I O N

CXPRESS

CLASSIFIEDS

17 May 2017

Paws

Plett Animal Welfare Service

ON THE SOAPBOX

17 May 2017

Letters to the Editor

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

Puppy abuse at Coney Beach does nothing to prompt mother’s intervention To the mother who sat on the rocks at Coney Beach, passively watching her daughters wilfully abusing two Jack Russell puppies, I want to say: Shame on you. What I saw on Sunday April 30, filled me with much disgust on so many levels. The two girls, aged six and nine years approximately, each had a Jack Russell puppy

of about 10 weeks old, which they repetitively swung on one hind leg, as if the dogs were rag dolls. They flung them harshly around in the waves, nearly dislocating their hips, and held them with force under the waves until the poor dogs gasped for air. They were laughing as the poor puppies tried to survive. The more the puppies

fought for survival, the harsher they were treated. At one stage the puppies were swung by their ears and submerged into deep water, their tiny legs treading water madly, in an attempt to surface. And you, mother dearest, just sat there - you didn’t blink an eye. Was this normal to you? Doesn’t it bother you that your girls don’t have

a nurturing, motherly instinct to care for and protect something as small as those puppies? If I didn’t intervene, those puppies would’ve been drowned by your kids. In hindsight, it might have been the better option, considering what lies ahead for these poor animals. SHAME on you! Disgusted Knysna Visitor, Grahamstown

Tsitsikamma Toll Road users held ransom I have always been intrigued by what exactly the Public Protector does. Aren’t the police there to (very loosely) serve and protect? So, presumably the Public Protector has mandate where the police don’t.

With this in mind I wrote to Thuli Madonsela about the Tsitsikamma Toll Road, which had increased its fees from R7 to R48, thus taking advantage of the alternative route being closed. Sure, you can go via George

Eish, not another leash versus unleash letter… I am sure you are sick and tired of the ‘leashed versus unleashed’ saga. A last thought, though: let’s organise for the leashed brigade to throw balls for their dogs on leashes, and to swim them (obviously on their leashes).

and Uitenhage! Surprise, surprise, she answered my letter (which is not the norm for government departments), suggesting I contact the South African National Roads Agency. That’s like advising a rape victim to go for

counselling to the rapist. What’s the advice going to be - grin and enjoy it? Surely the sensible thing is to open the toll road until the alternative route is reopened, and not to hold us ransom?! A Forbes, Plett

Your support exceeded our most adventurous expectations!

Please can I sell tickets for the spectacle, and TV rights to Ridiculousness and Science of Stupid? Actually it’s probably a bum idea, as the leashed brigade obviously don’t own dogs or love ‘em. ‘(L)EISH’, Plett

A different ‘camel’ of fish…

Derek Frielinghaus made us chuckle with this photograph, taken by his brother and old Plett local Peter Frielinghaus on Diana Beach in Kenya last weekend, and accompanied by his rather appropriate comment: “So you think we have problems with dogs on our beaches?”

Autumn colour on Bitou River

John Magill of Knysna shared this image after a recent visit to Plett, and wrote: “Just thought you’d like a glimpse of your own backyard. PS: I hope Nature doesn’t resent having been ever-so-slightly enhanced!”

GRATEFUL: The team of Meyer van Rooyen, Hanlie Sinclair, Johan Janse van Rensburg, and James ‘Lettuce’ Steward, with Chris Schorn (not pictured) as support member, expresses their collective appreciation - Photo: Timothy Twidle

It is always difficult to thank a person or group of people for something they have done, when what you’re thanking them for goes far beyond your wildest expectations. This is the situation we as a group [Three Dutchmen, a Lady and a Lettuce - read the story on page 12 of the April 19 edition at www.cxpress. co.za] find ourselves in after the fundraising evening hosted by Plett Ski-boat Club two weekends ago. The way all involved at the Club went way beyond the norm to ensure the evening’s success can only be described as amazing. Our sincerest thanks go to Chris Schorn and Sue van der Gaast for getting the ball rolling and making the venue available. Then, on the night. Dirk and Anne and all their staff at the Club made sure that everyone was well-fed and ‘watered’. The evening would not have been half the jorl it was without your contributions - we thank you profusely. Special thanks also go to the entertainers on the night - owner of Plett’s Barnyard Theatre Mel

Botes was ably assisted by world-famous muso Duncan Faure. They played amazing music and had people literally dancing on the tables (no names mentioned…). Last but not least, we thank all our friends and family who came along to share the night with us and generously contributed to our fundraising activities. All three teams from Plett are going to tackle Expedition Africa 2017 with the specific aim of doing the town proud, and you can link to www. expafrica.live to follow our progress, blow by blow. Three Dutchmen, a Lady and a Lettuce are now signing off to our pack bags and bank some sleep. Thank you all for the generous support! ‘The Team’, Plett (Expedition Africa 2017 kicked off in Cape St Francis on Sunday and we wish our local adventure athletes the very best of luck for the final push to cut-off on May 21, the other teams being BUCO Adventure and Plett AR. By going to print, all three local teams were still going strong in their bundu pursuits.You guys rock! - Eds.)

CXPRESS

SPORT & ADVENTURE

17 May 2017

Knysna Cycle Tour pulls out all the stops to fête its 30-year anniversary Read CXPRESS online @ www.cxpress.co.za

HE Momentum Knysna Cycle Tour celebrates three decades of happy peddling this year, and Knysna Rotarians serving on the organising committee plan to mark this auspicious occasion with the introduction of a number of new routes and races during Oyster Festival 2017. The event has grown enormously since its inception in 1987 and now comprises four popular events scheduled for July 8 and 9, the first weekend of the Pick n Pay Knysna Oyster Festival: Mountain bike (MTB) events, road races, the Spur Children’s Tour, and the Forest Family Dam Ride. The MTB event on Saturday the 8th is one of the biggest in southern Africa and includes outstanding cycling routes through the Knysna forest. Traditionally the events consisted of four different MTB routes for varying technical abilities - 80km, 50km, 30km, and 15km. This year, however, organisers are changing the 15km route to an easier, fun ride for all ages, and are also introducing a 30km e-bike route.

“We understand that this will be the first electric bike race in the country,” says race director Elwin Thompson, “and we hope to attract e-bikers from all over South Africa.” The MTB routes are rated among the most scenic in the world and include access to privately-owned sections of property that are usually closed to the public. Set up and managed by Leon Evans, better known in the world of off-road cycling as ‘Dr Evil’, they will test the skills of competitors to the max. The challenging 109km road race on Sunday July 9 will follow the route introduced three years ago, which was designed for enthusiastic, competitive roadies. It takes cyclists through Sedgefield, Karatara and Barrington before finishing back in Knysna. The 50km road race route is from Knysna to Sedgefield and back along the N2. This year, for the first time, both these races will include a category for mountain bikes. The Spur Rotary Knysna Children’s Cycle Tour on Sunday the 9th is a fun, safe event for children aged two to 10. There are three events for different age groups, all starting and finishing at the Knysna Oyster Festival Grounds on Waterfront Drive. Another new innovation this year will see the popular Forest Family Dam Ride on the Sunday split into two events: a 20km and a 30km ride. Both rides are scenic MTB routes through the Knysna forest and past some of the town’s dams. The 30km event is for more experienced riders, while the 20km ride is for MTB riders of all ages and competency, including chil-

EVIL’S IN THE DETAIL: This year’s Knysna Cycle Tour MTB routes are rated among the most scenic in the world and include access to privately-owned sections of property usually closed to the public - managed by Leon Evans, known as Dr Evil, they are sure to test the skills of competitors to the max

dren aged 12 years and older. These guided fun rides will not be timed. Concludes Thompson: “We would like to see as many cyclists as possible participating in events on both days of the tour, and our new events and categories will make this more feasible. There will be overall prizes for cyclists who enter events on both days.” The Knysna Cycle Tour is a one of the most popular events on the national cycling calendar and a highlight of the annual Oyster Festival. Online entries have been open since March - visit www.knysnacycle.co.za for more information, and follow the Knysna Cycle Tour on Facebook and Twitter for regular updates about all events.

Dam-Se-Bos sport field now open

Knysna Municipality invited stakeholders, community members and the media to join mayor Eleanore Bouw-Spies for the official opening of the Dam-Se-Bos sport field on Saturday May 13, when a grateful opening prayer and a rendition of the national anthem by DJ Abo hailed the start of the bright morning’s joyous proceedings. The mayor was joined by several councillors and stakeholders for the opening event of this refurbished site that is sure to add healthy quality of life to the residents of Dam-Se-Bos and surrounds. Above, the mayor cuts the ceremonial ribbon flanked by Ward 3 councillor Mncedisi Skosana, left, and Community Services councillor Cathy Weideman at right. DJ Abo then provided musical entertainment to ensure a great vibe continued during soccer games played between teams from the ‘hood.

All Cape event lures hordes of bowlers to Eden ROM April 23 to May 4, Eden District played host to one of the most popular bowling tournaments in South Africa, when more than 1,300 bowlers from across the country and abroad competed in over 300 games in the knockout stages. Plett was prominent in hosting 10 sections of the ladies tournament during the first week, and 20 sections of the men’s during the second week of the event. Each section comprises 10 teams of four players, which

means a massive influx of participants. Games were shared between Plett Bowling Club and the bowls section of Plett Country Club, and several local enterprises used the opportunity to advertise in the All Cape handbook, thus taking advantage of this wave of visitors to the town. The tournament was played in a very sporting spirit and generally most of the departing participants pledged to return to Plett as soon as possible.

BOWLS BOFFINS: Plettenberg Bay’s two bowling clubs hosted 10 sections of the ladies and 20 sections of the men’s tournament during the recent national event