17 september by CXpress

17 September 2014

Published every Wednesday by CXpress 2006 (Pty) Ltd - PO Box 1449, Plettenberg Bay 6600 - 6 Park Lane, Plettenberg Bay - Tel: 044 533 1004 - Fax: 044 533 0852 Email: editor@cxpress.co.za / advertising@cxpress.co.za Web page: www.cxpress.co.za Printed by Group Editors

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Flamingos flock to Plett! When asking Louisa Shneor about this photo, she said she ‘just happened to be near the mouth on Lookout Beach at the right time on a misty morning last week’... well fortune surely smiled on you, sis, for capturing this spellbinding double mirror image of our visiting aviators - and if you’d like to see more of them, visit the galleries at www.cxpress.co.za

It’s D-Day in Ward 7

Photo: Louisa Shneor

March for survival p6

Bitou rugby rocks! p10

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CXPRESS

News & Views

17 September 2014

Ziza, the Spanish mistress... RITA HARDAKER (née Van Rensburg) continues her trip down memory lane as estate agent in the 80s with this tale of a rather peculiar couple of clients

Our 10 000 free copies are distributed every Wednesday to a multitude of outlets along the Garden Route, with emphasis on Knysna and Plett and drop-offs at *Sedgefield Tourism *Caltex StarMart in Wilderness *Lynn Schroeder, Build It and other select outlets in George *Storms River Village and Bridge in Tsitsikamma - phone 044 533 1004 (o/h) with distribution queries.

If you’ve missed out on a hard copy, read the electronic version online at www.cxpress.co.za

NE bright day during the 80s, I was sitting at my desk when in walked two gentlemen, one being a short, extremely well-built man of about 50. After politely enquiring how I may be of assistance the taller of the two, who was obviously the financial advisor, took up the conversation as he was South African while the other was either Austrian or German and did not converse all that easily. They wanted to be shown beachfront properties and of course my agent’s ears pricked up as this meant Beachy Head or suchlike - lots of commission! After extolling all the virtues of Plett, I offered to drive them from one side of town to the other to orientate them with the areas. We finally started drifting towards the beachfront. I knew that one house was due to come on the market and although I could not get access that day, I made the necessary arrangements with the letting agent and managed to get the keys for them to view the place. On meeting them the next day, they were accompanied by one of the most beautiful Spanish ladies I had ever seen. She had a mane of pitch black hair pulled back like that of a ballerina, with fine features and a voluptuous figure to die for, doll! I showed them the house as well as an undeveloped stand. None of them showed any particular encouraging reaction, but said they would get back to me. Now, as all agents know

when clients say that, the chances of hearing back from them are practically zilch. They did mention, though, that they were thinking of coming to Plett for a two-week holiday and may call in this regard. So that seemed to be that. Much to my surprise and delight, I did eventually get the call and made the necessary arrangements for them to rent the house for that period. On arrival, I met them and offered to acquaint them with various venues including the Beacon Isle, as the Austrian gentleman wanted to dance. As I was the only person they had met in Plett, my

less dress held up by the sheer volume of her voluptuous glands and the bones of the dress. Very low cut, it resulted in the dress moving down even more when she lifted her arms to dance. My husband and I were both getting a bit hot under the collar - and then the inevitable happened: Ziza asked my husband to dance, and her partner asked if I could waltz. Now, torn between the commission and jealousy, we took to the floor. Unfortunately, the Austrian only knew how to waltz and the music was a slow fox-trot which made it very difficult. Every now and again I would give my husband the evil eye

‘She was dressed in a strapless dress held up by the sheer volume of her voluptuous glands and the bones of the dress’ husband and I were invited for drinks and gradually got to know them better. We were also invited when the night of dancing at the Beacon Isle arrived. During the course of that morning I got a call from Ziza, the Spanish lady, who wanted to discuss her apparel for the occasion. Down she floated in a beautiful, filmy, blue peignoir held together with little ribbons and not much underneath, just enough to cover the bare essentials. Seeing her then, I knew that my husband was not going to have a close dance with her that night - no ways! Ziza and the Austrian gentleman duly arrived at the BI. She was dressed in a strap-

- the poor man: he was really suffering, as Ziza believed in dancing as close as possible. I think I waltzed to a tango that night, too... The holiday was nearing an end and I still did not have a definite yes or no regarding the house. As they were leaving on the Monday, I persuaded them to

come in on the Saturday morning as one of the attorneys was working and could make the necessary legal arrangements for them. I usually did my own Deeds of Sale, so had one at the ready, just in case. On asking which of the properties they wanted to purchase, I was told that they wanted both! I got such a shock that I left the Deeds of Sale for the attorney to complete and fled to the kitchen to make coffee. Some years later, when the Austrian was in residence again, we were once more invited for sundowners. But, no Ziza? Sadly he related that she convinced him to buy her a property in Spain with the understanding that when he was not in Majorca or in Austria skiing, he could utilise the house in Spain. On wanting to visit there for the first time, he was told: “Oh no. For years I was a perfect hostess and always tried to please you, now the house is mine and our liaison is over. Besides I still have a husband - the divorce was never finalised.” He died a few years later but never got over Ziza - and I think it took my husband a long time, too! I had the commission so I was quite OK, thank you very much. Gockn"tkvcxBinqdcn0eq0|c" qt"ecnn"2:4"782"4828"kh"{qw" jcxg"uvqtkgu"vq"ujctg0

News & Views

17 September 2014

D-Day as Bitou Ward 7 by-election dawns Yolandé Stander

OLITICAL parties pulled out all the stops in Plettenberg Bay this weekend ahead of what is expected to be a hard-fought by-election today after serious political turmoil in Bitou Municipality in recent months. Even Western Cape Premier and DA leader Helen Zille herself hit the campaign trail while high-profile ANC members visited Bitou over the past week. The two parties are vying for the Ward 7 council seat after ANC councillor Nolan Stuurman suddenly resigned. A lot is at stake for both parties because if the DA wins the ward, the party would not need to rely on a coalition, and if the ANC retains Ward 7, they could possibly go ahead with a move to serve a motion of no confidence in, among others, mayor Memory Booysen. Six ANC councillors, along with COPE member and deputy mayor Adam van Rhyner, recently attempted to serve a motion of no confidence but failed after, among other matters, the resignation of Stuurman. DA candidate for Ward 7 is current Bitou speaker Annelise Olivier, while longtime resident Sammy Jansen

represents the ANC. Zille visited Kranshoek and KwaNokuthula on Saturday and Sunday, where she met with hundreds of residents. “She was well received and the support was tremendous. There was a public meeting held at the Kranshoek community hall, which was packed,” Olivier said. She added that most of the community feedback was positive although there had been a few service delivery issues raised, including insufficient lighting and the state of the roads. “The people of Kranshoek especially were very happy with how the DA was governing Bitou and we are confident that we will win this election.” Zille also visited several residents at their homes in both Kranshoek and KwaNokuthula. “Overall there was no negativity. There was, however, a group of ANC members who set DA T-shirts alight, but that was that.” Western Cape Community Safety MEC Dan Plato also visited Bitou and even spent a night working with the local neighbourhood watch. “He is adamant to establish a neighbourhood watch satellite office in KwaNokuthula after seeing the work that is

being done.” The ANC also sent several high-profile members to Bitou over the past week including Communications deputy minister Stella Ndabeni-Abrahams, deputy minister of Agriculture, Forestry & Fisheries Bheki Cele, and deputy minister of Higher Education & Training Mduduzi Manana, who canvassed in KwaNokuthula and Kranshoek last Wednesday. Deputy minister of Home Affairs Fatima Chohan visited Kranshoek and Harkerville on Thursday, while Western Cape ANC leader Marius Fransman headed to these areas on Friday. Minister of Sport & Recreation Fikile Mbalula also visited Bitou on Friday. On Saturday, Western Cape ANC secretary Songezo Mjongile campaigned in Kranshoek and KwaNokuthula while deputy minister for Rural Development & Land Reform Mcebisi Skwatsha visited there on Sunday. ANC secretary for the Southern Cape & Central Karoo Region Putco Mapitiza said they too had been well received by the community. “We are adamant that we will claim our ward back today,” Mapitiza said. Ictfgp"Tqwvg"Ogfkc

UP CLOSE AND PERSONAL: DA leader Helen Zille, centre, did home visits in KwaNokuthula, and drew a packed hall of people in Kranshoek - Photo: Wayne Craig

CXPRESS

News & Views

17 September 2014

Flow of raw sewage into Piesang stemmed, claims Pikkie Yolandé Stander

EARS have been sparked over a possible health risk for Plett residents and visitors after thousands of litres of raw sewage gushed into the Piesang River over several days last week, this with very little warning to those living in the area after a pump station off Piesang Valley Road broke down. While the sewage no longer flows into the river and the pump station is working again, the stench in the valley remains unbearable. Local resident Quentin Rodgers said he noticed a horrible odour on Monday and when he went to investigate he saw raw sewage gushing out of a manhole on his property next to the pump station. He raised alarm, but the sewage just kept on flowing from the manhole and overflow area adjacent to the station, underneath Piesang Valley Road, into a trench next to Raphaeli School and into the Piesang River past the River Club. This went on until Fri-

day morning. “No one was warned not to swim in the river. I took it upon myself to warn the school and River Club about the health risk. The children often play in that trench when there is water in it, but this time it was sewage. “The only warning was a sign near the lagoon, but this was only put up on Friday morning and taken down again, I believe, that afternoon,” Rodgers said. He added that by his estimations, hundreds of thousands, if not millions of litres of sewage ended up in the water. “This should never happen. There should be a reliable backup plan if a pump station fails. You can’t have sewage running into a river for five days. And if you do, you should warn residents about possible risks.” Rodgers said this was not the first time this had happened. “It has happened a few times and after the last time, we had the water tested and found between 2,000 and 3,000 faecal coliforms or

E.coli per 100ml.” Experts believe that 200 per 100ml is enough to cause diarrhoea. In the meantime, Bitou Municipality had scattered lime on Rodgers’ property and surrounding areas to kill the bacteria. The municipality confirmed that pump station 20 failed and that sewage flowed into the emergency holding dam near the station. This however started overflowing and sewage entered the Piesang Estuary untreated. Water quality manager Pikkie Lombard said the two municipal sewer tankers were unable to control the flow and a private sewer truck was hired to assist. The pump was repaired on September 10 at about 7:30pm. Officials then im-

plemented a monitoring programme and samples were analysed both chemically and bacteriologically every eight to 12 hours. A number of samples were taken indicating a health risk and on Friday warning signs were erected that the water was not suitable for recreational purposes. By Sunday, all samples indicated that the health risk was low and safe for recreational purposes. “The monitoring and control measures will remain until it confirms the safety and health of the estuary,” Lombard said. He added that a meeting would be held this week to discuss preventative measures and implement protocols to prevent pollution of this nature.

Photo: Supplied

UNSAVOURY, TO SAY THE LEAST: A failing pump station resulted into untreated sewage flowing into the Piesang Estuary – below, lime scattered on Quentin Rodgers’ property to kill the bacteria can be clearly seen Photo: Yolandé Stander

News & Views

17 September 2014

CXPRESS

Fêting five years of great broadcasting in the Bay On Thursday September 18, MC90.3fm, Plettenberg Bay’s unique radio station that broadcasts from its Mellville’s Corner studio in the heart of the town, celebrates its fifth birthday - TIM TWIDLE reports of South Africa. The transmission footprint of MC90.3fm extends from Storms River Village in the east to The Crags, Keurboomstrand, Plett’s central business district, industrial area and suburbs, and westwards to New Horizons, KwaNokuthula and Kranshoek. The remit of the station is

SUPER WHOOFER IN THE STUDIO: Gordon with his beloved pooch Marley, producer Floyd and DJ Natalie in the MC90.3fm studio - Photo: Watty Watson

HE moving spirit and driving force behind the inception of MC90.3fm in December 2008 was Gordon Hoffmann, who boasts some 40 years of experience in radio management and presentation with a number of different stations throughout Southern Africa. Following two 30-day pilot broadcasts in December 2008 and January 2009, continuous transmission of programmes round the clock, seven days a week - finally kicked in on September 18, 2009. The target audience of MC90.3fm is in the age categories of 25 years and older, and 55 years upwards, as

well as with business owners and professional people. A wide range of music characterises a variety of programmes, catering for tastes that encompass contemporary icons such as Rihanna, Miley Cyrus, Beyoncé, Maroon 5 and One Direction to legends typified by Frank Sinatra, Elvis Presley and The Beatles, as well as Golden Oldies of the 50s through to the 80s. There are also specialist feature programmes of classical, country, jazz and rock music. Programmes are aired in English by a team of presenters drawn from the diverse mix of age and ethnic heritage of the population of Bitou.

The station’s flagship programme, The Gordon Hoffmann Easy Morning, is broadcast in Plettenberg Bay and Knysna as well as in Johannesburg on Radio Today and across the rest of SA and Mozambique, Zimbabwe, Namibia, Lesotho and Swaziland on the audio channel of Digital Satellite Television (DStv) - the Multichoice digital TV service in Africa. Owned by Wave Broadcasting and Entertainment (Pty) Ltd, the station is a commercial enterprise and was the first low-power transmission station to be licensed by the Independent Communications Authority

Happy 104th birthday, Ouma Bet! Bitou mayor Memory Booysen shared his wishes for health, love and happiness with the oldest resident of Plettenberg Bay last week, when Elizabeth ‘Ouma Bet’ Moodie turned 104 years old on September 10. On the day it was evident that she is loved and adored by all, as friends and family gathered around to celebrate the joyous occasion with her. All those present wanted to wish her a happy birthday, the children showing their delight at being part of this unique celebration by treating Ouma Bet to traditional Griekwa song and dance. The smile on her face showed her gratitude and enjoyment of all the attention. Ouma Bet had 11 children, of whom eight are still alive. Her 50 grandchildren gave her 80 great-grandchildren and 16 great-great grandchildren. Shoo, Ouma Bet, you make us proud to have you as Bitou’s most senior resident.

to entertain with music and inform with fillers on topical news, provide updates on local happenings and events, and to promote Plettenberg Bay and surrounds as a destination of choice for tourists. Says Gordon, who is also a director of Wave Broadcasting & Entertainment: “The founding of the station has been a real challenge, but MC90.3fm has just received a renewal of its licence for the next five years.

“We intend to grow the station commensurate with the further growth and development of Plettenberg Bay, in the best interests of residents and visitors.” Well, here’s toasting the next five years of good vibes on the Plett airwaves along with Gordon and his able crew. Ugg"vjg"dtqcfecuv" rtqitcoogu"hqt"dqvj" OE;205ho"cpf";902" Mp{upc"ho"qp"rcig"340

CXPRESS

News & Views

17 September 2014

Join the biggest climate change which is why this will mobilisation... ever! isbereal, the largest global mobiliSee you on Signal Hill this Saturday at 1pm, clad in green and wearing your green heart on your sleeve, er, cheek

N September 21, hundreds of thousands of people will be taking to the streets of New York and cities all round the world for the biggest rally against climate change in human history. This is our chance to demand action before the global leaders meet for the UN Climate Summit on September 23, because climate change is no longer just about polar bears and trees, it is the largest challenge we have ever faced as humanity and it will affect all of us. And Africa will be the hardest hit due to vulnerability to drought, wildfires and food shortages. The people of the Garden Route have decided to make their voices heard, too, and will be marching from Signal Hill down to Main Street on Saturday the 20th at 1pm. Wear green for solidarity or paint a green heart on your cheek and make a placard for the future you envision, or the changes you would like to see. A petition will be handed to local government representatives demanding a focus on priorities for clean energy,

clean water and waste recycling as well as education programmes focussing on these issues, and the support of local producers and suppliers to drive the local economy, create employment and reduce our carbon footprint. Ninety-seven percent of climate scientists agree that man-made climate change is a reality. We know it’s happening, and we know why: carbon pollution is warming our planet and creating dirty weather like extreme droughts, flooding, wildfires, and superstorms. And we’re all paying the price for it in lives, livelihoods, food and water scarcity, and in every way you could possibly imagine. What can we do? Reduce carbon pollution. Right now, scientists tell us that we’re on track to see global temperatures rise by up to 4°C by the end of the century. With a shift to clean-energy economies, we can still create the sustainable and prosperous future we all want. But we have to act now. The concept of climate change may seem confusing or overwhelming but it

sation in history. If you like the idea of playing a part in creating a viable future for yourselves, your children, your grandchildren and this place we call home (the Garden Route is paradise, after all!) then come to the People of Eden Climate March on Saturday and join the thousands around the world who feel as strongly as you do. Says co-convenor Natalie Buttress: “Catch a cab, join a car pool, hitch a lift with friends or walk up to Signal Hill, but try avoid driving alone with just one person per vehicle. It may not always be possible, but is a much more conscientious way of getting around. “We will walk down to The Market in Main Street - sing along or bring a musical instrument and join us in showing the world that we care about sustainable living, our heritage and our legacy.” Contact Natalie on 074 481 8242 or at magicamp1@ gmail.com for updates on the Plett event, and Julia on 083 380 2001 if you want to sell goods at The Market after the March.

Xkukv"yyy0hcegdqqm0eqo1 gxgpvu178275:596268639"hqt" cffkvkqpcn"kphqtocvkqp0 FOLLOW YOUR HEART: Kids and parents and friends and families and, yes, your pets, are invited to get on the global bandwagon for sustainable living by joining the People of Eden Climate March in Plett from Signal Hill to The Market in Main Street this Saturday at 1pm - and be sure to show your allegiance to the cause by painting a green heart on your cheek or wearing green... all over!

Notice Board The Knysna Plett Concert Series presents the Vienna Symphony Virtuosi of Rudolf Gindlhumer on flute, Konrad Mosberger on trumpet and Karl Eichinger on piano vqpkijv" *Ugrv" 39+ at 7:30pm at the Dutch Reformed Church Hall in Fitchat Street. Doors open at 6:45 and tickets cost R120 (scholars pay R30). All friends and admirers of Pledge Nature Reserve are invited to a meeting at 5pm at Knysna Log Inn on Thursday Ugrvgodgt"3:. The topic of discussion is ‘The future of Pledge Nature Reserve’. Call 082 940 5392 for info and don’t miss this occasion to have input in the future of this Knysna treasure. There’s still time for the whole family to enter the exciting Feet for Food Charity Fun Walk on Heritage Day, Wednesday Ugrvgodgt"46. The popular fundraiser is organised by Knysna Rotary Anns and participants can sign up for either the full

12km route or the mini walk (±6km). The 12km route starts at Crab’s Creek at 8am while the mini walk kicks off from the Featherbed Terminal, Waterfront Drive at 9am. Both walks finish at Loerie Park where refreshments will be on sale. Entry forms are available at Knysna Mall on Saturday September 20 and at Crabs Creek and Featherbed Terminal on the day of the event an hour before the starting time. Entry fees are R40 for adults and R10 for schoolchildren. There is no charge for four-legged friends but take note that all dogs have to be on leashes, please. Feet for Food proceeds will go to local charity feeding schemes. For further information, call Anns President Sue Mills on 082 781 6424. Heritage Day *Ugrvgodgt" 46+ is when the Van Rooyen clan gets together in Plettenberg Bay, and everyone who shares this surname is invited to join in the fun.

There is also an open day on September 26 from 2-5pm at Piesang Valley community hall - entrance is free. And those who attended the little school in the valley (now housing Just Plett), or who held church there on Sundays, are invited to visit the historic building on Thursday the 25th at 10am. Email Andrie van Rooyen at vanrooyen1@telkomsa. net to register. Diarise Ugrvgodgt" 49 for Plett’s very own MND Ice Bucket Challenge - an activity involving dumping a bucket of ice water on one’s head and donating funds to the Motor Neuron Disease (MND) Association of South Africa. The action takes place at The Market Square from 11:30am and it’s sure to be lots of fun while serving the purpose of widening awareness of the disease. Phone Marcia on 082 575 1745 for details and watch this space for more information in the next edition.

News & Views

17 September 2014

THE PLETT WINELANDS

A celebration of new winelands adding sparkle to your holiday W

ITHIN one of South Africa’s newest Wine of Origin regions, you will find farms that are producing a variety of cultivars including Sauvignon Blanc, Chardonnay, Pinot Noir and Rosé, along with the expanding MCC varieties - which are growing fast and flavoursome to turn this area into the country’s premier bubbly region. Some of these estates are offering exciting action during the October holidays, so be sure to diarise the range of hosted events at select wine farms during the 2014 Plett Wine & Bubbly Festival. The main event is a two-day festival that takes place on October 4 & 5 at the iconic Beacon Island Resort. As an extra perk, several of the wine farms and estates will be hosting a variety of social events from October 6-12. Space is limited so book soon to ensure availability. Dtcoqp"Ykpg"Guvcvg Enjoy live music with national award-winning adult contemporary artist Wendy Oldfield and local musician Tigger. Peruse beautiful objects d’art and jewellery by world renowned sculptor Patrick Mavros. Treat yourself to the display of exotic plants and photographic wallpapers and softs or try your luck with the boule competition to win cool prizes. Enjoy croquet on the lawn and pony rides in the paddock - but most importantly, enjoy the dancing, food, wine and bubbles! ß"Rjqpg"266"756":229"qt" 295":55":3:5"ß"Ygfpgufc{" Qevqdgt":"ß"34"pqqp"/"owuke" uvctvu"cv"3ro"ß"T3221 rr"kpenwukxg"qh"owuke"cpf"

dtcpfgf"dwddn{"incuu" *ugrctcvg"gpvt{"hgg"hqt"dqwng"+ Jqi"Jqnnqy"Jqtug"Vtcknu Saddle up for some fun with a half or full-day of guided horse riding along trails winding through a game reserve, indigenous forests and through a selection of wine farms. You’ll be amazed at the scenery and wildlife experienced on this leisure ride. ß"Rjqpg"2:4"993"5967"ß" Gxgt{"fc{"ß";co"ß"T472rr" rgt"jqwt

savour Packwood wines and bubbly, homemade cheese platters using produce from its dairy, and goodies from the farmhouse kitchen (produce for sale) while enjoying an assortment of adult and children’s activities. ß"Rjqpg"266"755"9836"ß"Qe/ vqdgt";"ß"32co"ß"Htgg"gpvt{

Pgyuvgcf"Nwpf"Hcokn{" Xkpg{ctf Experience the new Newstead to Newstead Cycle Route. Sip and cycle your way through vineyards along the Redford Route in the Plett Winelands. Tours start at Newstead Wines at 10am and end there for a leisurely lunch in the vineyards. Booking essential. The tasting room and kitchen are open Tuesday to Saturday between 10am and 4pm, with extended hours applying during high season. ß"Rjqpg"266"756":553"qt" gockn"kphqBpgyuvgcfykpgu0 eqo"ß"Qevqdgt"9"*ncwpej" fcvg+"qpyctfu"ß"32co"ß"RQC

Rngvvgpxcng"Dqwvkswg" Ykpg"Guvcvg Book now for a Cheese-making Demonstration and Wine & Cheese Pairing/Tasting on October 6. Enjoy a tour of this boutique cellar, showing the winemaking process, followed by an artisan cheesemaking demo presented by award-winning local cheese maker Alje van Deemter of Fynboshoek Cheese Farm. Watch as Alje transforms raw milk into cheese to help you connect the dots between where cheese comes from and the finished product. The demonstration will be followed by a pairing/tasting of their wines and cheeses. The tasting will be accompanied with music by wellknown local musician and artist, David Kantey. Some of David’s paintings by will be exhibited at the venue and will be for sale during the event. An adult affair, this is limited to 30 persons per demonstration. Booking via Quicket is essential - nqecn"ku"ngmmgt! ß"Rjqpg"266"755";368"qt" 2:4"544"2987"ß"Qevqdgt"8"ß" 34"pqqp"cpf"7ro"ß"T442rr

Rcemyqqf"Eqwpvt{"Guvcvg A Tiny Country Fayre for the whole family is open from 10am on October 9, when you can experience a true taste of country living on this beautiful working estate. Sip and

SIP more than 30 local wines and bubbles, SAVOUR the delicacies of artisanal foods and eateries, SEA the Big Blue and ENJOY the festivities. Visit www.plettwine lands.com for more info.

Nqfguvqpg"Ykpg"("Qnkxgu Lodestone is co-hosting the 15km Newstead to Newstead Cycle Route. ß"Rjqpg"266"655":553"qt" gockn"kphqBpgyuvgcfykpgu0 eqo"ß"Qevqdgt"9.":.";."32."33" qt"34"ß"32co

Come to Kurland Hotel... and stay, stay, stay!

T’S almost time for the Plettenberg Wine & Bubbly Festival on October 4 and 5, which is sure to become a highlight on the Plett social calendar. To celebrate the launch year of this innovative event, Kurland Hotel is offering all festival attendees the chance to

spend the weekend in style at this supremely beautiful fivestar hotel. Get a load of this accommodation special: Pay for two nights, but stay for three and so make the most out of the festive weekend, which is also the start of the school holidays.

After a busy day on the Plett Winelands and at the festival hub at Beacon Island Resort, guests can spend the night relaxing at Kurland Hotel and experience even more fine dining. Call Reservations on 044 534 8082 and visit www.kur land.co.za for more info.

CXPRESS

17 September 2014

News & Views

Business

17 September 2014

Accounting made easy

CXPRESS

Jeremy Andrews – Andrews & Co Chartered Accountant & Auditor - Plett

The changing face of local business and of hi-fi system. I knew there was switched to compliance and the tax landscape no chance of finding these in maximising all legitimate

have never liked the term “small business” because the connotation of small can be seen as “less than” or of “lesser value”, which is far from the truth. I believe that small business is the backbone of nearly all economies and often, possibly always, the source of great new ideas. It is also the precursor to new big businesses - think Steve Jobs and Apple, our very own Elon Musk of PayPal, SpaceX and Tesla fame, and Mark Shuttleworth of Thawte, or Richard Branson of Virgin. They all started in a small way, but there is nothing small about those daring to go it alone. How Plett has changed! From a town of owner-managed stores - or Moms &

Pops, as the Americans like to call them - with few nationals, we now boast a full range of nationals and franchised stores with many of the M&Ps disappearing. This is not unique to Plett but a global phenomenon; just as big business gobbles up smaller successful businesses, so they also move into any town that has sufficient wealth to support one of their branches and often cause the demise of several ownermanaged stores. Small business have had to adapt - and adapt we have, adaptability being one of the great strengths of this sector. Recently, I have had personal experience of the new face of small business. I wanted to get three unique items for my

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

The Big Five - Part I: Naspers

ASPERS is undoubtedly one of South Africa’s most incredible success stories. The company was originally the owner of a large print empire, essentially the core of Afrikaans newspapers. In 1980, it entered the pay TV market with M-Net (DStv). This was followed by an investment in MTN in 1994, which was sold in 2000. Naspers’ visionary management team led by Koos Bekker embraced the internet, while many of their peers i.e. Vjg"Pgy"[qtm"Vkogu - fell victim to the ‘net. Its most successful investment was in 2001 when it bought a 34% stake in a little known Chinese company called Tencent, spending US$33-million. Today, it is worth ± US$45-billion. Through this initial investment, Bekker created one of the largest global media empires. Naspers through its investment in Tencent has over 800-million Monthly Active Users. This is the largest Chinese online community (that is not a typing error: 800,000,000 users). This includes the largest Chinese social network, Qzone, with 644-million users; the largest instant messaging service QQ with 848-million users; and Weixin (WeChat in South Africa) has 393-million users. What is amazing is that China’s internet penetration is still only 46%, while America’s is 82%. The Tencent platform now includes mobile games, online advertising, e-commerce, and online payments, Naspers has diversified into Russia, through its partial ownership of Mail-Ru, which

is one of the three dominant Russian social media platforms. It also has internet related interests in Eastern Europe, Latin America, India, Indonesia, and Nigeria. Many South Africans do not realise that DStv is offered in 48 countries across Africa. Of the 7.2-million subscriberbase, 2.5-million are outside of South Africa. For the majority of South Africans, most of the numbers mentioned above are beyond conception. It is important to realise that over the last 1,000 years there have only been two centuries - the 19th and 20th centuries - during which China and India were not dominant global economies. By all accounts, China will once again become the dominant global economy halfway through the 21st century. I find it incredible that this massive entity has its roots in South Africa, is listed on the JSE, and can be accessed by all South Africans. It is exciting to write about such an incredible success story. Ocneqno"jcu"dggp"kp"vjg" kpxguvogpv"kpfwuvt{"hqt"qxgt" 62"{gctu0"Jg"jcu"ytkvvgp" vjku"eqnwop"kp"EZRTGUU" hqt"vjg"ncuv"38"{gctu"cpf"ku" c"urgekcnkuv"kp"ocpcikpi" tgvktgf"ygcnvj0" ß" Dghqtg" vjg" rtgxkqwu" gfkvkqp" ygpv"vq"rtkpv."Ocneqno"cumgf" wu"vq"ejcpig"vjg"pcog"qh"vjg" eqorcp{" Tgwpgtv" *yjkej" jku" eqnwop" qp" Chtkec" etgfkvgf" ykvj" nc{kpi" c" ecdng" vq" Gcuv" Chtkec+" vq" Cnvgej1Cnvtqp0" Yg" fkfp‚v."uq"pqy"yg‚tg"kp"jqv"yc/ vgt"ykvj"Ot"Uvgyctv"/"qt"yqwnf" jcxg"dggp."kh"kv"ygtgp‚v"hqt"vjg" hcev" vjcv" jg‚u" vtcxgnnkpi" vjg" yqtnf" yjkng" yg" ncdqwt" cyc{" qp"vjg"Ictfgp"Tqwvg0"/"Gfu0

any national store. Google and EBay pointed me to small, niche suppliers; one in Australia and the other two the USA, on the opposite side of the world. So I ordered the parts and paid for them using PayPal and in very little time at all, the items arrived as promised without a hassle. Then, to cap the story, I needed to find someone with electrical engineering skills to install them and I found a wonderful 89 year old retired electrical engineer who had them installed in doublequick time. I rate my experience with all four “small” businesses at 10 out of 10. Their passion for their products, high level of service and their willingness and ability to communicate intelligently made the shopping “trip” not only pleasant but also quite sociable! I am sure there are countless stories of this nature, all of which illustrate how small business has sought out niches in the market that big business don’t want to play in. Looking around Plett and chatting to clients and people in town, one gets an idea of how business has adapted here as well. A shop selling second-hand vinyl records (who still remembers those?) among other musical items, international web and software design services, and designers of apps for cellphones and iPads are but a few examples and they illustrate just how people have had to adapt to the invasion of the nationals. Just as the business landscape has changed, so has the tax landscape. The closing of loopholes, streamlining of the Act and collection procedures, and the criminalising of certain acts of omission or commission in dealing with your tax has all but done away with “tax planning” as a major preoccupation of business people. The emphasis now has

claims against taxable income. Clever tax planning is now largely about knowing what can be claimed and ensuring that there are systems in place to capture every allowable expense. My personal development of the SimplyAccounting - or SiAcc for short - has been driven by the need for a quick, easy to use and reliable record-keeping system that will not only ensure compliance but also give valuable management information on a monthly basis. This ensures that clients not only optimise their tax position but have control over their business. Cloud computing and modern technology allow us to work with clients on a collaborative basis, which ensures an efficient and cost effective solution. And do watch this space in two weeks’ time for details on an exciting addition to our service offering to clients. On the tax front, it is often overlooked that South Africa introduced two tax regimes to assist small and micro businesses. One in particular is most beneficial to the more formal small business and has already saved clients substantial amounts of tax. This is an option that all small businesses should really consider - the tax savings provide much needed financial relief that assists the business to grow and compete. I have noticed that entrepreneurs are now tending to put all their energy and creativity into developing their businesses and have accepted that tax is a fact of life if they want to grow their wealth, not wasting energy on trying to avoid tax. As one of them said to me: “I like to have untroubled sleep at night.” Lgtgo{"Cpftgyu"jcu"dggp" kp"vjg"dwukpguu"qh"ocmkpi" ceeqwpvcpe{"gcu{"hqt"nqecn" dwukpguu"hqnm"hqt"fgecfgu"/" ugg"vjg"cfxgtv"qp"vjku"rcig" hqt"eqpvcev"fgvcknu0

CXPRESS

Social Scene

17 September 2014

Foto’s: Gerhard van Huyssteen

BITOU BO! Plettenbergbaai se rugby ondersteuners het opgedreun in groot getalle om hul span aan te spoor laas Saterdag in die finale van Suidwestelike Distrikte se Kusliga teen die Garden Route 15-span. Daar was kommer toe die opposisie bietjie die pad byster geraak het maar uiteindelik het Bitou koning gekraai en die boonste sport op die liga-leer behaal. Afrigter Chris Ferreira, links bo, is letterlik en figuurlik op die hande gedra deur die span en jolige Pletties van die dorp se elke uithoek. Geluk aan Chris en almal by Bitou Rugby vir jul harde werk om hierdie lof in te palm. In die foto middel bo oorhandig Ben Brinkhuis van SWD Rugby se uitvoerende raad die trofee aan Bitou kaptein Denrick Moodien. Mooi so, manne!

People, places & events

JUST SAY NO: Reverend Len Levendal, at left above, from Elim Church New Horizons organised an anti-drugs march recently. Says William Ashurst: ‘He asked our help as he knew we are active in promoting the dangers of drug abuse.’ So along with wife Astrid, he organised ‘The truth about drugs’ booklets for the marchers and on Saturday afternoon August 23, they joined two members from Bitou Traffic, seven Police officers and 50+ volunteers in distributing 750 of the booklets on a three-hour long march through the main roads of New Horizons. ‘Reverend Levendal was very grateful and pleased with the results,’ says William, ‘and a bigger march is being organised for later in the year. During church service on Sunday the 24th, he did a thorough sermon on the dangers of drug abuse.’

ON ICE: Claudine Badenhorst sent this pic and wrote: ‘On Friday August 29, Ross and I along with friend Courteney Meyer went on a snow hunt - and we struck it very lucky! We found serious snow between Avontuur and Uniondale and an awesome time was had by all us kids, big and little ones alike.’ The photo shows Mom & Dad with kids Madison & Cameron.

A GOOD DAY’S DRAMA: At a function held on Casual Day, Friday September 5, at Sterreweg day-care centre for children with disabilities in New Horizons, a group from the Youth Drama Group performed a short sketch. From left at back are Nel Gabayi, Belgian volunteer worker Susan Meews and Olivia Terblanché. In front are Spanish volunteer Flavia Turci, Percy van Rooyen Bronwyn Kriga, Nosipho Mfana and Bronwyn Preissex. - Timothy Twidle

Social Scene

17 September 2014

CXPRESS

People, places & events

ACCLAIM OF BIBLICAL PROPORTIONS: At the reading of ‘A Private Conversation’ - a play by Paul Deans set in biblical times and held at the studio of Myfanwy Bekker in Plett on September 4 - an appreciative audience of some 65 people rocked up - and loved it! Standing at back with Paul, left, is David Lederle and seated from left are players Keith Lurie, Ken Balajadia and Brenton Freeman. - Timothy Twidle

DANCING SHOES... ON! The Plett Primary admin ladies from left are Tania Ferreira Nieuwoudt, Taryn Antunes and Marianne Winter - are all dressed up and ready to boogie at the Grade 6 Strictly Come Dancing evening last Thursday. For news and pics and highlights of the event, be sure to get your next copy of CXPRESS on September 24.

FEELS LIKE HOLIDAY: Jolyn Ferreira, in front at right, sent this lovely pic and wrote: ‘Look at how our wonderful boss spoilt us all on September 3’s Secretaries Day! Thank you so much Viv, from all your girls at Holiday Plett.’ At back from left are Liezel van der Walt, Marietjie Horak, Marian Swart and Hedi Roy. In front with Jozi are Helene Andrew and superboss Vivienne Nel, centre.

GET DOWN WITH GARY: Down to Earth on the Keurbooms River’s banks recently had the pleasure of hosting golfing legend Gary Player for Sunday lunch. Here he is pictured with chef Hilton Crous after feasting on an entrée of fish cakes followed by Hilton’s scrumptious pork belly for main course with a country salad on the side. Visit this newest addition to the Garden Route’s organicallyminded eateries with a focus on locally sourced fresh produce to sample some of what Mr Player had savoured. The pic at right shows festive tables with treats galore presented by the D2E team for Jaqui Rodgers’ baby shower. Call Down to Earth on 044 533 5843 to book your next function, lunch or dinner.

CXPRESS

17 September 2014

A few cunning signs • In a podiatrist’s office: ›Vkog"yqwpfu"cnn"jggnu0fi" • At an optometrist’s office: ›Kh"{qw"fqp‚v"ugg"yjcv"{qw‚tg" nqqmkpi" hqt." {qw‚xg" eqog" vq" vjg"tkijv"rnceg0fi • On a plumber’s truck: ›Yg" tgrckt" yjcv" {qwt" jwudcpf" hkzgf0fi" • On another plumber’s truck: ›Fqp‚v"unggr"ykvj"c"ftkr0"Ecnn" {qwt"rnwodgt0fi • On an electrician’s truck: ›Ngv"wu"tgoqxg"{qwt"ujqtvu0fi" • At a car dealership: ›Vjg" dguv"yc{"vq"igv"dcem"qp"{qwt" hggv"/"okuu"c"ect"rc{ogpv0fi • Outside a muffler shop: ›Pq" crrqkpvogpv" pgeguuct{0"

Yg"jgct"{qw"eqokpi0fi • In a veterinarian’s waiting room: ›Dg"dcem"kp"hkxg"okp/ wvgu0"Ukv#"Uvc{#fi • At the Electric Company: ›Yg"yqwnf"dg"fgnkijvgf"kh"{qw" ugpf" kp" {qwt" rc{ogpv0" Jqy/ gxgt."kh"{qw"fqp‚v."{qw"yknn"dg" fgnkijvgf0fi • In the front yard of a funeral home: ›Ftkxg"ectghwnn{0" Yg‚nn"yckv0fi • Chicago Radiator Shop: ›Dguv"rnceg"kp"vqyp"vq"vcmg"c" ngcm0fi • Sign on the back of a septic tank truck: ›Gzvtgog"ecwvkqp" /"Vjku"vtwem"ku"hwnn"qh"rqnkvkecn" rtqokugu0fi

Being followed... “I’m fed up with your jealousy,” the furious wife told her husband. “Do you think I don’t realise you’re having me followed by a detective who’s tall, blond, has green eyes and is very nice, although a little shy at first?”

A bit of wit and wisdom • I just broke up with someone and the last thing she said to me was: “You’ll never find anyone like me again!” I thought: ‘I should hope not! If I don’t want you, why would I want someone like you?’ • Relationships are hard. It’s like a full-time job - and we should treat it like one. If your partner wants to leave you, they should give you two weeks’ notice. There should be severance pay, and before they leave you, they should have to find you a temp. • A lady came up to me and pointed at my suede jacket. “You know a cow was murdered for that jacket?” she sneered. I replied in a psychotic tone: “I didn’t know there were any witnesses. Now I’ll have to kill you too.” • My mom said she learned how to swim when someone took her out in the lake and

threw her off the boat. I said: “Mom, they weren’t trying to teach you to swim.” • In primary school, in case of fire you have to line up quietly in a single file line from smallest to tallest. What is the logic? Do tall people burn slower? • A study in the Ycujkpivqp" Rquv says that women have better verbal skills than men. I just want to say to the authors of that study: “Duh.” • I had a linguistics professor who said that it is man’s ability to use language that makes him the dominant species on the planet. That may be, but I think there’s one other thing that separates us from animals. We aren’t afraid of vacuum cleaners. • Some women hold up dresses that are butt ugly and they always say the same thing: “This looks much better on.” On what? On fire?

Cure for unemployment “So you think you could end all unemployment, do you?” asked the interviewer. “And how, if I may be so bold to inquire?” “Why, I’d put all the men

on one island and all the women on another,” replied Paddy. “And what would they be doing then?” “Building boats!”

Interval

Home & Health

17 September 2014

CXPRESS

This Plett charity store has a heart of CHOC! If you descend from ground level at Noel Centre in Plettenberg Bay’s Main Street, you’ll find a little treasure trove with excellent intentions

HE Charity Store in Plett has been opened to try and help people who, for whatever reason, are in a situation where they cannot help themselves. This according to Colin Robertson, who adds: “We have decided to help children, and in particular, children with cancer.” The shop’s main beneficiary is the Childhood Cancer Foundation SA (CHOC, which refers to Children’s Haematology Oncology Clinics and was founded in 1979 by a parent group in Joburg, but now has branches across the country) – visit www. choc.org.za to find out more. “The Foundation takes in kids with cancer from all over the country, but in particular, we will support the hospital closest to us, in Port Elizabeth, which admits children from our area,” explains Colin. He says a dedicated charity store is sometimes like the goal posts for so many of the sports that our children play. “Everyone is so keen to score, but they often have to pass to someone closer to the goal in order to score, and so we play a pivotal role in staying near to the goal

and being able to take what you give us, sometimes multiply its value, and give it to those who need it. “One has only to make one visit to these little ones to realise what a difference our gifts make, and we may never see who we have helped - but does it matter? As long as we have done the best we can, that’s all that is asked of us.” Please donate anything and everything you have to spare (including that spare car!) and help Colin and his Charity Shop team to make the lives

of young cancer sufferers a little easier. Colin concludes: “We would like to take this opportunity to thank those who helped us make a start by donating some much-needed equipment, especially Plett Build It who supplied us all the timber and fittings we required. Without your help, we would really have struggled.” Ugg"vjg"cfxgtv"qp"vjku"rcig" hqt"eqpvcev"fgvcknu."cpf"vwtp" vq"rcig"8"hqt"oqtg"pgyu"qp" EJQE‚u"kphqtocvkxg"xkukv"vq" Rngvv"Rtkoct{"tgegpvn{0"

BROWSE AWAY: You’ll be spoilt for choice at the Charity Shop in Plett’s Noel Centre, where benefactors like Build It provided timber and fittings for free, and which is now calling for your good second-hand gear to be dropped off for sale for a great cause

Saving grace with sacred salvias in spring and all year round

COLOUR YOUR LIFE TODAY: Versatile, unfussy and floriferous, Salvia splendens is available in a whole range of colours

ALVIAS are their own saving grace, hence their name being aptly derived from ucnxgtg, which is Latin for “to save” or “to heal”. Since ancient Greek and Roman times the plant has been believed to hold medicinal properties, with results so compelling that even modern day trials are still being carried out today. Pliny the Elder was a Roman scientist and historian who was the first to use the name salvia. The Romans were so serious about this sacred herb they even performed a special ceremony to honour it during harvesting. In ancient Greece, it was historically used for snake bites and digestive problems. Salvia splendens, hailing from a somewhat cosmo-

YOU NEED KEEMO: Zandile Xate shows off a Keemo key-holder - one of the two CHOC mascots helping kids understand the heavies of cancer in a lighthearted manner

politan genus of around 1,000 species, it is one of the most loved and respected garden variety annuals commonly found around SA today. It is a versatile, unfussy and floriferous addition to gardens that even a novice gardener will love. Although most commonly referred to as Red Salvias, Salvia splendens is actually available in a whole range of colours. The splendour of Salvias can be enjoyed all year round in warmer climates and will even give gardeners a good run for their money on the Highveld. With brilliant bursts of colourful flowers that can be enjoyed outdoors and then cut for extended enjoyment in a vase, indoors, they’re capable of warming all areas of

your home and heart. Don’t be shy when it comes to deadheading or using them for cut flowers, as this will encourage new flushes of flowers, leaving you wondering if you’d even removed any to start. Salvias do well in both full sun and dappled shade but if you’d like a richer red in your garden, go for as much sun as possible as it seems to enhance it. If you have some barren spaces to fill, these beauties are the perfect choice with the colour reward being almost instantaneous. Most people rest during the heat of the day because everything is more tiring and seems to take double the amount of energy, right? So, always transplant your

seedlings in the late afternoon to prevent the heat of the day compromising your chances of success. A bit of extra water while they’re settling in won’t go amiss either. Salvias are not partial to drought but they’re also not very thirsty - a nice middle ground plant. Giving them adequate water in well-draining, composted soil, with a little extra during dry spells and success will be yours for the taking. They’ll encourage butterflies and bees to visit your garden with their rich source of nectar and pollen, but you should watch out for pesky snails, since they’re just as partial to these attractive specimens. Whether you’ve a container to fill, a bed to edge or a few gaps to fill between shrubs and perennials, Salvia splendens is the annual for you so pop into your local garden centre and introduce some colour into your life today. Iq"vq"yyy0nkhgkucictfgp0 eq0|c"hqt"oqtg"kphqtocvkqp0

CXPRESS

17 September 2014

Classifieds

On the Soapbox

17 September 2014

Letters to the Editor

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

A valued contributor’s feedback - and we don’t mean on fish, solely... I just got back from Cape Town to see the edition of CXPRESS missed in our absence - I liked ‘Heavenly Gardens’ [turn to page 2 of the September 3 edition at www. cxpress.co.za] and the Brackenhill school story on page 5. And Yolandé Stander’s follow-up to the Rheenendal bus accident was well done. I don’t think we have heard the end of it... I have for some years been campaigning and writing to the Transport MEC in Cape Town to press for Minimum Basic Standards for Transporting People. It is surely an important aspect of managing transport. This business of workers riding on bakkies needs to

be stopped, as in Australia some 20 years ago. In 2011, I worked out a Seven-point Plan for phasing it out, starting with municipal bakkies and police vans. The minister forwarded it to his officials. But nothing happened, of course. Readers may be interest to know that a single-cab one-ton bakkie is licensed to carry ‘three persons seated and none standing’. Look at your licence disc if you drive a bakkie. If your workers are thrown off and injured or killed in an accident, and you exceeded the licence restriction, where do you stand legally? On very thin ice, I think! Half-ton police vans are li-

censed to carry two persons seated; they are not licensed to carry anyone in the back except police dogs. A few years ago, a school bus left the auto-route in France and landed in a field. The driver was complimented because there were no injuries and every child was buckled up. I have not been able to locate the report, which featured in Nc" Fgrgejg some years ago (no deaths so not headline newsworthy, I think). Over the last 20 years France has significantly reduced the accident rate on that country’s roads. This has been partly due to very tough policing (you don’t mess with the gendarmes), and largely due to the Points System on driving per-

mits. Consistent speed limit restrictions, which everyone understands, have also helped. The speed limit in French towns is always 50km/h, except on urban freeways. The approach to a town - usually a kilometre in distance - is always restricted to 70km/h. In South Africa, municipalities set speed limits and they are seldom consistent. Cncuvckt"Itcpv."Rngvv *Yg" jcxg" dggp" ncrrkpi" wr." cu" kv" ygtg." Cncuvckt‚u" eqpvtk/ dwvkqpu"qp"eqqmkpi"/"flockpn{" hkuj‚" /" yjkej" jg‚u" dggp" ujct/ kpi" igpgtqwun{" qxgt" vjg" rcuv" hgy"oqpvju0"Jku"tgekrgu"jcxg" dggp" vtkgf" cpf" vguvgf" oquv" uweeguuhwnn{"kp"vjg"EZRTGUU" vgco‚u" tgurgevkxg" mkvejgpu" cpf"kh"{qw‚xg"okuugf"kv"kp"vjg" jctf"eqr{."fq"c"ugctej"hqt"kv" cv"yyy0ezrtguu0eq0|c"/"Gfu0+

PUBLIC TRANSPORT TROUBLES: A single-cab one-ton bakkie is licensed to carry ‘three persons seated and none standing’, but here, at left, eight people are transported on the back of a bakkie in Marine Way in Plett - look at your licence disc to find out about passenger limitations

was made of the Provincial Roads Department regarding the inadequacy of the safety barrier. Does the barrier meet the new SABS specifications? Surely, taking into account the height of the bridge at Kasatdrift River, one would expect a double height

guardrail or open box beam system, which would have prevented the bus leaving the road and plunging into the water. I think we all know that a normal guardrail system will not work and thus a more secure barrier should have been installed originally. And why

has it not been done now? It is not only at this bridge, but on all areas of our roads where there is a considerable drop, that more secure barriers should be constructed to prevent further tragic loss of life in the future. Eqpegtpgf"Tqcf"Wugt." Mp{upc

Thanks to all who make the Plett Clean Campaign work The Plett Clean Campaign has been on the go since February and we have had unbelievable support. Our aim, together with Bitou Municipality, is to keep our tourism town as clean as possible. Tourism plays a huge part in the economy of our town, which in turns provides jobs. Spring has sprung and we would like you to plant with us, making Plett a bright flower for the world to see, so we need the help of everyone who lives in Bitou. We already have a wonderful team cleaning Kurland Village, overseen by Veronica Cloete. In Plett, we meet every Tuesday evening around 5:15pm and spend just one hour weeding or picking up litter in certain areas, which we may have noticed are in need of a once-over during the preceding week. Plett Clean Campaign has many people and businesses to thank, who have been helping us from the outset: Ex-

press Signs, Pinnacle Painters, Zigg Zag Branding, The Clean Shop, Dulux Paint, Pennypinchers, Glow Lighting, Arlene’s Pool Services, Garden Route Timbers, and Mike & Joanne Janse van Vuuren for Patrick’s bicycle and cellphone. Each garden service on board has a designated area: Eden Gardens (Kwikspar and post office), Home from Home (Robyn’s corner on Odlands), Smart Gardens (Piesang Bridge to Kwikspar circle), Garden Thyme (all traffic circles), Dave’s Garden Services (circle at The Grand), and Milkwood Gardens (below Zanzibar). We also thank the schools - Waldorf, Plett Primary, and Plett Christian School - and all the individuals who have helped our cause. There are too many to mention but these are a few of the amazing helpers that once a week give an hour of their time to care for our town: Andy Smit, Maxine

Brett, Kirsten Deacon, Dave & Brenda Scott, Dee Gotz, Mandy Frost, Lesley Mullins, Perino Pama, Di Butlin, Matt Covarr, and Nic Bryant. We thank Lynne Kapp for our Facebook page and Stephanie Shrosbree for liaising with Bitou Municipality. Finally, we could not have done this without Patrick Windvogel, who is employed on a donation basis - his pot is at Rice and Linen, so please contribute. Patrick is extremely proud of his achievements and we are very grateful to him for walking and cycling all over Plett to help us keep it clean. We appeal to you all to please help us in your own small way. Please do not throw rubbish out of car windows. Please don’t drop rubbish while walking in the streets but hold onto it until you see a dustbin - we are working on Bitou to provide us with more. Remember that the municipality does not remove your

Bitou now backdating bills for refuse truck drive-by? Could this letter please be printed on your front page? I have just been informed by Bitou Municipality that we now have to pay another tax for a no-service issue. Apparently, we will now be charged for refuse removal on empty stands - something that doesn’t generate refuse, but just for the privilege of having the truck

drive by! Is this not a case of extortion from the few to subsidise the many? And not only that, but it is to be backdated to the past! This issue hasn’t been gazetted, shown to us on any official document, or advertised. It is not acceptable and should not be tolerated. Uvcpf"Qypgt."d{"gockn

F R E S H

Rheenendal inquest: Roads Department should also have featured I read with interest the report on the findings of the inquest into the Rheenendal bus accident, and on those who had contributed to the accident [turn to page 4 of the September 3 edition at www.cxpress.co.za]. However, I was astonished to see that no mention

CXPRESS

garden refuse, so please do it yourself or get someone to remove it for you. And if you can’t help us on a Tuesday, just spend an hour or half an hour picking up any litter you may see in your surrounds. We appeal to our fellow Plettonians to educate friends, employees, children, and family. We want Plett to be pristine at all times so that we can wow our visitors and make them come back to Plett time and again, so making it a better place for all. Cnkuqp"Dt{cpv"/"Eqqtfkpcvqt" ("hqwpfgt<"Rngvv"Engcp" Ecorckip

CXPRESS

Sport & Adventure

17 September 2014

Untouchable in the adventure stakes

NTOUCHED Adventures has won Best Tourist Experience in the Eastern Cape at the second annual Lilizela Awards in Port Elizabeth on Tuesday September 9. Lilizela is regarded as the ultimate recognition for achievers in South Africa’s tourism industry. Owner of Untouched Adventures in Tsitsikamma National Park, Marthinus van der Westhuizen exclaims: “We are ecstatic about winning this prestigious award and being recognised as world class for the quality of our adventure activities and our safety records.” The award falls in the Visitor Experience category, giving guests an opportunity to test adrenaline levels, push the limits and do so in an exceptionally well-managed environment where the thrill of adventure comes second only to safety. Operations manager Stanford Skosana - who was one of Untouched Adventures’ very first guides - says: “It’s exciting that our hard work has paid off. We are committed to service excellence and we have really proved

ourselves!” Earlier this year, Untouched Adventures was also awarded the TripAdvisor Certificate of Excellence for its most popular activity: the 2-3 hour Kayak & Lilo trip up Storms River Mouth. This certificate honours hospitality excellence and is given only to establishments that consistently achieve out-

standing traveller reviews on TripAdvisor. URGEKCN"QHHGT In celebration of these accolades, Untouched Adventures is offering all readers a 20% discount on their Kayak & Lilo trip until the end of September - just quote this article. Ugg"vjg"cfxgtv"qp"vjku"rcig" hqt"hwtvjgt"kphqtocvkqp"cpf" eqpvcev"fgvcknu0

LIE LOW ON YOUR LILO, CRUISE ON YOUR KAYAK: Untouched Adventures offers a special discount on a Kayak & Lilo trip for readers who read here and quote this story...

YAY! Elated staff members celebrate their Lilizela Award

Takes One To Know One…

SA’s best surfers descend on Vic Bay

HE country’s best open men and junior surfers will soon be making their way to Victoria Bay outside George to compete in the final leg of the Quiksilver Takes One To Know One series. The event is the third of a three-part series and takes place on September 20 and 21 at the Southern Cape’s most popular point-break setting. A 3A Surfing SA Pro Surf Tour event, there’s R30,000 in prize money on offer. The previous two events took place at Long Beach in Cape Town and Umdloti on the KZN coast, and this weekend’s final stage is set to attract top level competitive surfing. David van Zyl of Durban

North put on an impressive performance in the Cape to take out his first open men’s victory, while Beyrick de Vries of Umhlanga Rocks stole the show in Umdloti. Neither Van Zyl nor De Vries will have it all their own way in Vic Bay, with the likes of Slade Prestwich (Durban), Michael February (Kommetjie), Dylan Lightfoot (Jeffrey’s Bay), and Dan Redman (Durban North) looking to impress and take home some silverware. In the U20 junior division Diran Zakarian of Melkbosstrand will be keen to repeat his Umdloti result, when he performed a series of radical manoeuvres to win the junior division final.

He will be up against rival Prestwich as well as Jarred Veldhuis, Shane Sykes and Matthew McGillivray. The full series has offered a total of R90,000 in prize money and incredible prizes from sponsors Drift Cameras, Techniblock Sunscreen, Scullcandy Headphones, Zigzag Surfing Magazine, and Red Bull. Says Quiksilver marketing manager Dane Patterson: “The series has been welcomed with open arms. It’s the perfect platform for South African surfers to gain a competitive edge and a good stepping stone to bigger things. Let’s hope that Vic Bay’s surf delivers for the final.” Xkukv"yyy0swkmuknxgt0eq0|c1 vqvmq1"vq"hkpf"qwv"oqtg0