1 February 2017 by CXpress

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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Cutting the ribbon during a formal celebration last Saturday of the completion of Plett’s Airport Road project are, from left, Western Cape Transport’s director of road design Melanie Hofmeyr, Bitou mayor Peter Lobese, Western Cape Transport MEC Donald Grant, Eden mayor Memory Booysen, and Knysna mayor Eleanore Bouw-Spies - read all about it on page 3.

Rest in peace, dear Peter

Meeting models and jazz musos

Readers on the soapbox

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Photo: Yolandé Stander

1 February 2017

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NEWS & VIEWS

1 February 2017

OBITUARY

A Welshman ‘till his last breath, Peter’s achievements are too many to mention CXPRESS contributor, Knysna bon vivant and photographer GIGI LEWIS last week had to say final goodbyes to her husband; she set his memorial date on February 3 because a month later, March 3 would have been their 50-year wedding anniversary Y dear husband, friend, confidant and tutor, Arthur Peter Lewis, left this earth after a serious illness on January 20. He passed away peacefully at our home in Knysna. Peter leaves behind our distraught daughter, Angela, and his grandchildren Isabelle, George, and Alfie who live in Suffolk in the UK. Family living in Johannesburg and Germany are also deeply saddened, as are his many friends all over the globe. Born in Aberystwyth, Wales on October 15, 1940, Peter (as his parents preferred to call him) was the only child of the late Frederick, an Anglican clergyman, and Daphne Lewis. Peter never gave up his Welsh-

ness until his last breath, listening and singing to the compelling voices of Welsh male voice choirs, or the hauntingly beautiful voice of Catherine Jenkins. He couldn’t be happier than to see the Welsh national team win in World Cup Rugby, and would always back a British racing driver in Formula 1 races. Too numerous to mention his life’s achievements, he was a caring and loving father and husband, an astute businessman, an accomplished jazz clarinet player, and racing driver at Kyalami. Peter was known and loved for his hilarious sense of humour that stemmed from the influences as a student of such icons as The Goons, Benny Hill, Pe-

PETER LEWIS: 15.10.1940 - 20.01.2017

ter Cook and Dudley Moore, The Comedians - and not to forget mathematics teacher, Tom Lehrer - all of whom had that quirky twist on humour that Peter loved so much. Missing him desperately and wishing him victory and love on his last journey… Gigi, Angela, Isabelle, George, and Alfie… and all his family and

friends who sent such passionate condolences. • A memorial service for Peter Lewis will be held on Friday February 3 at 11am in the Perks chapel and garden at 32 Rawson Street. In lieu of flowers, please donate to Hospice Knysna (visit www.hospiceknysna. org.za or call 044 384 0593 for more information).

Communicate with charisma to change your life for the better ROSE SHEARER of Communication Charisma explains why words and the way you say them can deeply impact relationships on all levels OMMUNICATION is the currency of human social life. Without communication, we humans become sad isolates for we are naturally gregarious creatures. But is the way we communicate always effective? Do we always say what we mean to say? And how do we say it? Are we able to convey our thoughts and feelings in a way that is acceptable to the other? Are we able to express concerns so that a tense situation is defused rather than inflamed? Do

we have the courage and skill to share our thoughts and feelings openly and honestly, while at the same time having positive regard for the other? The old saying ‘Sticks and stones will break my bones but words can never hurt me’ is clearly a false premise. We have all of us felt the sting of angry or unkind words. Such words do not float away into the ether - they are engraved in our being and it requires effort to remove them from our consciousness.

How often have we opened our mouth in anger or frustration without thinking and precipitated a chain of action and reaction which results in us wishing we had kept our mouth shut? How many quarrels and misunderstandings have been sparked by a thoughtless remark? I guess we can all recall a moment when we would have bitten off our tongue to swallow words that have flown out like arrows finding their mark and

inflicting their damage. Communication Charisma offers an opportunity to learn new ways of communicating with your family, friends and colleagues. Learn and practise how to communicate with clarity, honesty and kindness and experience your life changing for the better! • Rose Shearer holds a diploma in conflict resolution and is a highly qualified, experienced educator, counsellor and writer. See the advert on this page for contact details.

NEWS & VIEWS

1 February 2017

CXPRESS

New Airport Road sure to ‘significantly change’ prospects of Plettenberg Bay’s economy Bitou’s newly resurfaced Airport Road was officially opened by high-profile dignitaries on Saturday after the R100-million project was completed recently - YOLANDÉ STANDER reports EVERAL high-profile guests descended on Plett to celebrate the completion of the Airport Road project, which span over 16 months and saw the upgrade of the gravel section of road between the N2 and Kranshoek to a surfaced road. Among the dignitaries was Western Cape MEC for Transport and Public Works Donald Grant, who said the new road was set to “significantly change the future prospects of the Plettenberg Bay economy”. He was speaking at the opening ceremony at Ouland Royale. “The project itself was motivated by the need to connect the western side of Plett to the N2, also creating easier access from Plettenberg Bay Airport and the new industrial development area adjacent to the airport on the N2. This will now be the fourth access route into Plett,” Grant said. He added that he believed the new road would also be

a key driver in the increase of tourism in the region and would increase the potential of property developments along the road. “Tourism remains a huge economic driver in the region, contributing an estimated 60% to the area’s GDP - in excess of R2-billion annually.” He further said that the tourism sector in the region was the highest employer at more than 4,000 jobs, and had the potential to grow even further. “All of these factors make this R100-million investment by the department a strategic one that has the potential of reaping great rewards in future. Eden District continues to be one of the fastest growing regional economies of the Western Cape, aided largely by infrastructure investments such as this one.” Grant said the project commenced in September 2015 and had been completed in December last year. “Arriving at this point was not without its chal-

lenges and additional needs that arose during the project.” He explained that clearing alien vegetation was part of the project, which later also included repair work to Piesang Valley Road, to a section of porous asphalt and to a slip on the road. Additional work also had to be done to remove more trees on site than was originally estimated. “Despite these hiccups, the contractor, Entsha Henra, must be commended for not only producing a product of a high standard, but also completing the project within the contract period.” Grant said that road infrastructure was an important factor for the productivity, safety and future development of South Africa and the Western Cape in particular. “This importance is demonstrated in areas where they are in a poor condition. The adverse impact on economic activity and general safety can be clear-

WET DRIVING BETTER ON TARMAC: The recently completed Plettenberg Bay Airport Road was shrouded in grey as welcome rain pelted the area during the past weekend’s launch affair Photo courtesy of the Western Cape Department of Transport and Public Works

ly seen.” He said it was his wish that the completion of the road would mark the beginning of greater things to come for all those who travelled on it, whether for work or pleasure. “May this road keep this region on the right path to progress.”

Among the guests were Bitou mayor Peter Lobese, Knysna mayor Eleanore Bouw-Spies, and Eden mayor Memory Booysen. Several other stakeholders including contractors, affected business owners, and members of the community also attended. Lobese thanked Grant

and his department for driving the project. “It will not only now be nice to drive on the road, but the project means benefits for the Kranshoek community too - change for the economic status and an improvement to their lives,” Lobese said. Garden Route Media

CXPRESS

NEWS & VIEWS

1 February 2017

KwaNokuthula boasts new recruits, but SAPS reservists are now urgently required HE South African Police Service invites members of the community that are interested to join the SAPS to assist in the fight against crime. Potential reservists need to be fit mentally and physically, and energetic in order to be considered as suitable. Reservists perform voluntary duty in the SAPS without any expectation of

receiving compensation for such duty. Requirements include that applicants must be aged between 20 and 50 years, must be in possession of a valid Senior Certificate, and must have a permanent job and driver’s licence. Says Plett police spokesman captain Marlene Pieterse: “You must also be able to speak, read and write at least two official

languages, of which one must be English, and be prepared to undergo training as determined by the National Commissioner.” Finally, prospective reservists must provide proof of residential address, and have no criminal record. Application forms are available at the Human Resources office of local police stations, or call 044 501 1933 for details.

DEAD-KEEN TO CATCH CROOKS: The KwaNokuthula police last week welcomed new recruits ready to fight crime in this large Plett community - pictured from left with Captain Meiring, at left, and Lieutenant Colonel Khewana, at centre, are constables Mthirara, Williams, Nguza, and Smith

Notice Board • The matter against the Plett man accused of having links to a horrific international baby pornography network was set to get underway in Knysna on Friday, but was yet again postponed when the suspect failed to appear in court. The computer engineer, 38, was arrested on January 2015 when international police swooped on his home and allegedly found sections of files containing thousands of images and videos of violent assaults as well as internet addresses of more than 300 other alleged paedophiles. He was scheduled to appear in the Knysna Regional Court, but his lawyer

Carl Jeppe indicated that his client was ill. The matter was postponed to February 7. -Yolandé Stander / Garden Route Media • Readers will be aware that Ford SA has made a decision to recall its 1.6L Ecoboost Kuga Sports Utility Vehicles (SUVs) following reports of these models bursting into flames. If you own one of these, you may be concerned about how the recall will affect your insurance cover. In your policy, a condition called ‘duty of care’ will impact your cover in this instance. It stipulates that you, as the client, must take all necessary steps to

ensure that your vehicle is inspected and declared safe - as per Ford’s recall instructions. In total, 4556 Kugas must be recalled. The affected cooling system components have to be replaced, a software update conducted, and an oil-leak check done on the cylinder head. By taking the necessary steps, owners will ensure that cover and premiums will not be impacted. If not, you could face possible claims repudiation. Owners are urged to take their cars to a Ford dealer as soon as possible. Call GRIB on 0800 43 49 48 or Ford SA on 0860 011 022 for more information.

Spontaneously combusting substations?

Plett reader Ray Winter sent this pic and wrote: “I took this photo down Longships way at the time of the second electrical explosion in the space of a month, at about 1:15pm on January 26.” Our query to Bitou’s Electricity and Mechanical Engineering department, with regard to a possible cause or advice, received no response but in case of a similar fire, residents should have better luck when contacting the friendly team at Customer Care on 086 124 8686, or the aforementioned department on 044 501 3277.

NEWS & VIEWS

1 February 2017

Don’t miss this celebration of Robberg Coastal Corridor N his definitive book The Diversity of Life, Pulitzer Prize-winner and eminent Harvard University scientist Professor Edward O Wilson identifies certain hot spots on the planet which houses species found nowhere else and which are in the greatest danger of extinction from human activity. The Cape Floristic Province on the southernmost tip of Africa is such a hot spot and houses one of the world’s most unusual and diverse floras, known colloquially as fynbos. In this minute region some 9,000 plant species have been identified of which 70% exist nowhere else in the world. However, over one-third of the fynbos has been lost to development, agriculture, and the invasion of alien plant species. What remains is being rapidly fragmented and degraded; already 30 species are known to be extinct, and some 1,700 are threatened (a total exceeding the entire flora of the British Isles). Within this diminishing floristic province lies the ecologically sensitive and threatened Robberg Coastal Corridor (RCC) an 18km stretch of beautiful pristine coastal land that links Robberg Nature Reserve in the east to Garden Route National Park in the west, rich in fynbos of numerous varieties. By connecting the two adjoining protected ar-

ROYAL RHINO: Circa 800 years ago at the late Iron Age archaeological site of Mapungubwe, a member of the royal family was laid to rest and in the grave was placed a little rhino, 15cm long and made of pure gold - presently the star attraction of an exhibition at London’s British Museum, you could win your own version at Cairnbrogie on February 4

eas consolidation of the corridor, once achieved, would extend its length to over 30km from the tip of Robberg Peninsula to Noetzie. This is more than sufficient to sustain a hiking trail along a coastline equally as spectacular as the famous Otter Trail on the Tsitsikamma coast. This crucial and achievable ecological challenge mobilised a group of concerned proprietors to constitute the Robberg Coastal Corridor Landowners Association (RCCLA) in October 2010. To this end the RCCLA - in a ground-breaking initiative and with the support of the Eden to Addo Corridor Initiative, Garden Route Initiative, SANParks, CapeNature, WWF and the two municipalities hosting the extended Corridor - made application to the Western Cape minister of Environmental Affairs and Development Planning, to declare its member properties a Protected

Environment in terms of the national Environmental Management Protected Area Act. The minister, Anton Bredell, signed the declaration in August 2015. And to celebrate progress to date of this pioneering initiative, world-renowned paleoanthropologist Dr Curtis Marean will give a lecture at Cairnbrogie Barn, courtesy of RCCLA chair Andrew Hill, on Saturday evening February 4. RCCLA founder member Chris von Christierson will introduce Dr Marean, and the legendary Dr Robbie Robinson will open proceedings with an introductory message on the importance of the RCC and establishment of the Erica Coastal Hiking Trail. Former CEO of SANParks and first chairman of the Eden to Addo Corridor Initiative, Dr Robinson spearheaded the development of hiking trails in SA, most notably the

world-famous Otter Trail. He has been intricately involved in plotting the proposed Erica Trail. Says organiser Annabelle Conyngham: “We are incredibly fortunate to host a lecture on our doorstep, given by one of the world’s preeminent scientists. Entitled ‘Survivors on the Edge of Land and Sea - Developing the Southern Cape Coast Paleoscope of Early Modern Humans’, the lecture will place specific emphasis on our coastline.” Tickets at R300pp will include entry in the draw of a bronze conceptual sculpture by Noel Ashton modelled on the Mapungubwe rhino, in response to the brutal killing of Southern African rhinos. Titled ‘Mapungubwe Revisited’ the sculpture (worth R15,000, 30cm long x 14cm high) is sold at high-profile events in partnership with WWF SA to raise funds for the protection of the species. Von Christierson has generously donated edition No 25/100 to further the protection of the RCC and development of the Erica Trail. Contact Lady Conyngham at aconyngham@tel komsa.net or on 044 533 5178 for tickets, or visit Barnie Barnard at The Market Square info kiosk. Banking details: FNB Plettenberg Bay (branch code 210514), account no 6265 844 4759, reference: your name/RCC.

CXPRESS

NEWS & VIEWS

1 February 2017

Golden age for distance learning as tech changes face of sector ROSPECTIVE students are increasingly opting for distance learning as a first choice, with the sector experiencing strong growth as a result of its harnessing of technological advancements. “Educational technology has taken the distance and isolation out of distance education and, as a result, the sector is benefitting from the fact that it speaks directly to what modern, selfdirected young people seek when furthering their education,” explains Peter Kriel - GM at The Independent Institute of Education. Kriel says in 2017, many people have neither the time nor patience to do things the “traditional” way, and distance learning has sufficiently come of age for it to be viewed as a viable, quality alternative to fulltime, contact study. Distance education has traditionally been the domain of working adults and those who could not afford or gain access to contact institutions. “However, the power of what is possible online has dramatically changed that perception - locally and internationally - and all

distance institutions are reporting a massive surge in registrations from school leavers and other non-traditional distance students. “Historically, distance education had a reputation of isolation and drop out; of failure and stress and of being a very difficult thing for anyone without superhuman self-discipline to tackle, so it was not an attractive option and not suitable for most school leavers. ‘All distance institutions are reporting a massive surge in registrations’ “But that is no longer the case as, when done right, there is no more distance in distance - just a great deal of flexibility and selfpaced learning without any of the isolation.” Kriel says that by paying close attention to how people learn, modern distance learning can in fact be significantly more effective than the old, crowded lecture room model. That is because distance students can learn by pacing themselves and checking their own progress on the

way while getting help when needed; they can develop critical work skills such as the use of online resources and communication and collaboration tools; they can build networks with other students across the world and graduate with a degree that has given them both knowledge and confidence. “Back in the day, distance institutions sent learning materials to students by snail mail and received assignments back in the same way. Later, email was used and content was merely dumped in a digital repository for students to access. “But over the last decade, the convergence of social media tools and interactional technology like blogs, wikis and discussion forums have been used to enrich static presentation of material online, which has turned the modern distance experience into one in which all the interactional possibilities of the web and associated technology are leveraged to engage, support and monitor students and to connect them to each other.” Kriel says that the result of this harnessing of tech in distance learning is that To page 7

BUSINESS

1 February 2017

CXPRESS

Interest rates reprieve a welcome breather AST week’s announcement by the South African Reserve Bank to keep interest rates unchanged gives consumers a timely reprieve, as many are likely to be recovering from significant festive season spending. “Consumers should use this reprieve to get their finances in order ahead of the next Monetary Policy

Committee review and the National Budget Speech, which could see tax adjustments,” says Ester Ochse, Channel Head at FNB Financial Advisory. “In an uncertain economic climate, building reasonable financial reserves is very important and consumers should take advantage of every opportunity to do ex-

actly that,” she adds. Ochse says consumers should pay attention to the following financial aspects: • Closely monitor your budget • Cut-back on unnecessary spending • Limit exposure to debt • Pay off debt as quickly as possible • Build up savings or an investments portfolio. The Bank’s decision is an

important catalyst for consumers that are committed to saving their way out of tough economic conditions. Last year saw a ratehiking cycle and interest rates haven’t been cut since, meaning those with savings will continue to earn a relatively high interest. “Though the decision to hold interest rates will

be welcomed, it’s important to note that South Africa is still in the midst of economic uncertainty. Our economy continues to struggle creating jobs and inflation remains outside the maximum target range. “However, this latest move helps consumers to have a firm grip on their financial affairs,” concludes Ochse.

Millennials can boost their chances in the 2017 job market S with every year, the start of 2017 sees a fresh crop of South African matriculants setting out on their paths to entering the job market. With current Millennials already active in a competitive market, it is unlikely that by the time our newest matriculants enter into the formal sector they will arrive at an enabling environment especially since work experience is the silver bullet for youth unemployment. The country’s overall unemployment rate stands currently at 27.1% and the youth unemployment rate has averaged over 51% for the past three years. While government, business and civil society need to come together to address our high rate of youth un-

employment through multifaceted programmes, there is something that Millennials can do to increase their chances of breaking into the job market. This is the view of Richard Rayne, CEO of iLearn - a leading South African learning solutions business, offering a range of onsite instructor-led and online training that address critical skills shortages. “Low levels of education, and the lack of qualifications, experience and work readiness are all often cited as reasons why it is so much harder for young job seekers to secure employment,” says Rayne. With more accessible and affordable learning environments available, Millennials can embark on a self-driven

up-skilling programme that will help them boost their chances of launching a successful career. “What’s important is to choose a quality, accredited provider,” explains Rayne. “You want the qualifications you gain through your own effort to be reputable and recognised. It’s also important to be well aware of your interests, passions, and strengths so you develop yourself in a direction that is meaningful to you and the future you want.” The advantages of upskilling include: • By being proactive and making choices to learn, gain training and achieve qualifications, you become more appealing to current and future employers; • By committing to up-

skilling yourself, you demonstrate your drive for new opportunities, innovation, and success; • By investing in your own professional development you take a great step towards securing a better role in your current or future organisation; • By gaining knowledge in areas of business or technology or languages that you are most interested in, you begin to shape a career, and a future life that is most likely to be rewarding and successful. “Following your own upskilling programme doesn’t have to mean signing up on bricks and mortar campuses,” points out Rayne. “On the contrary, learning online offers many benefits to Millennials.

“Young people are generally most comfortable and adept online, and find it an easy place to learn. Courses can be accessed any time and from anywhere. “If you’re taking a gap year, you can study while you travel. If you’re unemployed, you can log on at home or at your local library and begin studying towards something that can change your circumstances for the better. “Alongside our high unemployment rate, South Africa also has an everdeepening skills shortage,” concludes Rayne. “The country is looking to our Millennial generation to develop the skills that trade and industry desperately need right now, and in the future.”

Golden age for distance learning From page 6 students are increasingly not seeing the option as a last resort but, just as more students are electing to go the private higher education route instead of enrolling at public universities, so students are actively choosing distance learning because of the associated benefits. Rebecca Shimmin, the Institute’s Senior Operations Coordinator for distance education, warns however that prospective students should interrogate the quality of the institution and course on offer just as they would with any contact institution. “Questions to ask before signing up include the obvious ones about registration and accreditation, but also questions about the support structures in place for students who are struggling or not keeping up. If the answers you get are vague or complicated, this should be a clear signal not to enrol. “If the institution isn’t able to make a connection with you in the initial stages, they are very unlikely to do so when you need them further down the line.”

CXPRESS

INTERVAL

1 February 2017

Why men are just happier people... • Your last name stays put. • The garage is all yours. • Wedding plans take care of themselves. • Chocolate is just another snack. • Car mechanics tell you the truth. • The world is your urinal. • You don’t have to stop and think of which way to turn a nut on a bolt. • Wrinkles add character. • One mood all the time. • Phone conversations are over in 30 seconds flat. • You know stuff about tanks. • A five-day holiday requires only one suitcase. • You can open all your own jars. • Your underwear is R80 for a three-pack. • Three pairs of shoes are more than enough. • Everything on your face stays its original colour. • The same hairstyle lasts for years, even decades. • You only have to shave your face and neck. • You can wear shorts no matter how your legs look. • You can ‘do’ your nails with a pocket knife. • You have freedom of choice concerning growing a moustache. • You can do Christmas shopping for 25 relatives on December 24 in 25

minutes. NICKNAMES If Laura, Kate, and Sarah go out for lunch, they will call each other Laura, Kate and Sarah. If Mike, Dave, and John go out, they will affectionately refer to each other as Fat Boy, Bubba, and Wildman. BATHROOMS A man has six items in his bathroom: a toothbrush, toothpaste, shaving cream, a razor, a bar of soap, and a towel. The average number of items in the typical woman’s bathroom is 337. A man would not be able to identify more than 20 of these items. ARGUMENTS A woman has the last word in any argument. Anything a man says after that is the beginning of a new argument. DRESSING UP A woman will dress up to go shopping, water the plants, empty the trash, answer the phone, read a book, and get the mail. A man will dress up for weddings and funerals. NATURAL Men wake up as goodlooking as when they went to bed. Women somehow dete-

riorate during the night. OFFSPRING Ah, children. A woman knows all about her children. She knows about dentist appointments and

romances, best friends, favourite foods, secret fears, and hopes and dreams. A man is vaguely aware of some short people living in the house.

Seniors and technology

Tracking my cookies? You will NEVER get my recipe, Internet!

Look, Frank! There’s a fella in Nigeria who says we’re RICH!

One very smart dog man walked by a table in a hotel and noticed three men and a dog playing cards. The dog was exhibiting an extraordinary performance.

“That’s a very smart dog,” the man said. “Not really,” said one of the players. “Every time he gets a good hand, he wags his tail.”

In a minute, Mr Web. I’m just doing a spell check.

SOCIAL SCENE EUROPE AND AFRICA CONNECT AT KYC: Ancient Agents will perform at Knysna Yacht Club on February 2 as part of their national tour. This localinternational collaboration brings together four multi-instrumentalists: SA is represented by innovative lead guitarist Reza Khota and melodydriven bassist Schalk Joubert, joined by intuitive, dexterous percussionists Frederick Gille (Sweden) and Ronan Skillen (Ireland), whose instruments range from Arabic to Indian and North African. Each band member boasts a distinct sound, an impressive performance history, and international experience. With musical influences from Africa, India and Scandinavia, the quartet combines traditional rhythms and contemporary harmonies to produce a richly textured acoustic world beat that crosses genres, borders and time signatures. Ancient Agents has been described as “a musical journey that bridges cultures, combining grooves from north India and the Middle East with Afro beats and polyrhythms - ancient sounds telling a modern tale”. The tour is supported by Concerts SA through the Music Mobility Fund (a mechanism offering opportunities for SA musicians to undertake live tours) and Swedish Arts Council. Booking is essential and space limited so buy your ticket at R150 through Candice at playon@ candiceludick.com or on 060 715 3607. Pictured from left in mid-chuckle are Frederick, Ronan, Schalk, and Reza.

1 February 2017

CXPRESS

People, places & events

PUTTING YOUTH FIRST: The Knysna Youth Council held its first meeting for 2017 on January 20, with mayor Eleanore Bouw-Spies and speaker Georlene Wolmarans in attendance alongside Youth Desk officials and Greater Knysna youngsters. Bouw-Spies provided feedback on the Mayoral Bursary Fund and responded to questions, while Oyster Festival manager Glendyrr Fick presented an overview of this year’s event (also see advert on this page). Further presentations included talks by a Mind Movement representative and Zukile Kala of the Human Resources department. The Youth Council selected Fredwin Agiels as deputy secretary and Zipho Naki, Fredwin Agiels, Aschin Klein, Vuvu Ralushe and Ethon Alexander as Disciplinary Hearing Committee members. In closing, Wolmarans said: “This is where you can lay the foundations for the change you want to see in our society.” Pictured from left above are KYC secretary Cazlin Goldberg, chairperson Mandisa Litoyi, speaker Georlene Wolmarans, and deputy chair Ethan Alexander.

KO201790_DG

WANNA MEET A GERMAN MODEL? The George Old Car Show is celebrating its 21st year of existence on February 11 & 12, and along with life-size motors from various eras, more than 15,000 miniature cars will be exhibited in four classrooms at PW Botha College in York Street. Replicas with good collector’s value cost about R150 for a tiny 1:87 scale model, R500-R800 for a 1:43 scale model, and about R4,000 for a 1:18 scale model. When it comes to the many classic and other cars on display, this year’s focus is on vehicles manufactured in Germany, with a special exhibition comprising 35 unique and rare models. Besides the beer tent run by George Rotary, a number of stalls will offer food, soft drinks, and a variety of merchandise for sale. Entrance fees range from R60 weekend package deals to one-day entry for kids at R10. Gates open at 7am on Saturday and 8am on Sunday, with George mayor Melvin Naik officially opening the event at 10am on February 11. Visit www. scocc.co.za for more information.

Get involved!

The 2017 Pick n Pay Knysna Oyster Festival is taking place from 7 - 16th July. We are looking for services within the Event Management Industry. Supplier forms are available at Knysna & Partners, or can be downloaded from www.pnpoysterfestival.co.za. Please email completed forms to Glendyrr Fick on headoyster@oysterfestival.co.za or drop it of for her attention at the oﬃces of Knysna & Partners in Main Street Knysna by latest 14 February 2016.

CXPRESS

1 February 2017

Handyman on call - no job too small. Please phone 082 492 4417 / 072 724 6590

Paws

Plett Animal Welfare Service

CLASSIFIEDS

ON THE SOAPBOX

1 February 2017

Letters to the Editor

CXPRESS

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

Adults are duty-bound to ensure the safety of our youngsters The Green Hearts is a group of Plettenberg Bay volunteers formed to educate children about abuse of all kinds and to protect them as far as possible before and after such incidents. We have submitted proposals to the SA Law Commission, Parliament and the Constitutional Court in an effort to ensure the imposition of appropriate sentences for perpetrators of abuse. We also have the ear of the National Prosecuting Authority in this regard. We are committed to the protection of all children,

but particularly to those in Bitou, whether they reside here or are here temporarily. With regard to the article in your January 11 edition, and one recently published in Huisgenoot magazine - both concerning an incident which took place during Plett Rage 2016 - we believe that all adults are duty-bound to ensure the safety of young people and to do nothing that could result in their dreams and hopes being shattered. This seems to have been the case with two young women who visited our

town during Plett Rage and were participants in the Wet T-shirt competition. While opinions will differ on where blame should be directed, we encourage Plett business folk to engage responsibly and astutely when planning the programme for events such as Plett Rage. While we accept that teenagers will do as they please, adults in the equation must behave appropriately and be acutely aware of the possible disastrous consequences which may result from unsuitable events and,

in particular, the effects of alcohol being freely available at such events. From the YouTube video, it appeared that spirits was poured down the throats of the contestants - straight from the bottle - during the controversial contest. Parents, who are unlikely to be present at such events, need to educate their children with regard to what is and what is not acceptable and prepare them adequately to deal with the outcomes of becoming involved in such events. Expecting an 18-year-

old with very limited life experience to understand the implications of such behaviour is not only unrealistic but unfair. Plett SAPS has a VEP room where one of the young women involved in this debacle was treated. A Green Hearts volunteer was on duty and dealt personally with the situation. While all information remains confidential, we know the extent of the shock and humiliation experienced by this young person as well as the consequences of that evening’s

experience. Both girls had their whole lives ahead of them, but now face dishonour and degradation that could and should have been avoided, had there been more discernment and care in the planning of entertainment during Plett Rage. We thank you and the people of Plett for the support we have enjoyed over the two years of our existence and assure you of our continued commitment to the protection of children in Bitou. The Green Hearts, Plett

Too late to impose this sensible plan? Moya Animal Outreach deserves a mention Bitou’s waste dump has reached capacity and finding a new dumpsite has been a hot potato for a decade or more. At one time the costly solution (to be funded by increased municipal rates) was to close it and trans-

port future refuse 200km to Mossel Bay. Much of that enormous Checkers site opposite The Market Square will be covered by buildings and parking. By how many years could the life of the Bi-

tou dumpsite, 12km away, have been extended had Bitou imposed a condition on this development that they used material from the dumpsite to raise the level of that property by 2m? John Stegmann, Plett

Reclaim Lookout parking lot… for free! It is a well-known fact that Plettenberg Bay has a serious shortage of beach-front parking during holiday seasons - more so when events are hosted at Central Beach and parking space is cordoned off for service vehicles at these events. Plett’s beautiful beaches and excellent weather make it one of the best

holiday venues in the country, but sadly the lack of ample parking creates a problem for all our visitors, especially since the loss of the parking lot at Lookout Beach. On the other hand, we have the ever-increasing size of the municipal dump. There is, however, a free solution to both these problems; why don’t we

redirect the truckloads of excavating soil delivered to the municipal dump, to Lookout Beach in order to resurface and reclaim the parking lot? It is my estimation that within two months from launching such a project, we could establish an acceptable ground surface parking lot at Lookout. ‘Drone’, Plett

for its excellent work in The Crags

The letter ‘Take serious note of Plett’s two faces’ refers [read it on page 11 of the January 25 edition at www.cxpress.co.za]. This chap has got it wrong - there is indeed an animal welfare group operating out of The Crags, which is battling to get funding to help these animals. The dog in question was taken to The Crags Vet whose owners, the vets, are the founders of Moya Animal Outreach. They are doing an amazing job, but really need more help from the local ‘privileged’ community and would love to get more visibility through this kind of letter. Yet they are not even mentioned, despite the fact

that they actually were the ones who helped this poor little guy. The ‘neighbour’ never had money to contribute, so it came from Moya. I put it on Moya’s Facebook page but would very much like some kind of link to copy to the people who read this letter. Its author mentions contributing to various organisations, but is clearly not aware of the local organisation doing the very job he is saying is so desperately needed. Moya has done much to get the support of the locals so we would very much like to get in contact with this gentleman, and others like him, who clearly cares. PS: Moya Animal Out-

reach and Sunshine Sanctuary (who are in Kurland Village all the time rescuing animals...) work together - Moya for primary veterinary care, and Sunshine Sanctuary with rescues and fostering. Both are based in The Crags. Toni van Hoey Smith, Plett (In the previous edition, we placed a note to inform readers of the Moya Animal Outreach jumble sale at Kurland Village community hall on Saturday February 4 from 10am to 2pm. If you are available to assist on the day, or would like to contribute to Moya in any other way, please feel free to call Jacquie de Villiers Rodwell on 076 818 9069. - Eds.)

Prepare for a huge shock when seeing Bitou’s seasonal electricity tally Plettenberg Bay residents, please be aware when you receive your electricity accounts this month. We have just received our account and noted we are now being charged for November 2016 to January 2017. So Bitou is adding the two months’ consumption figures together

and then charging you the extra for exceeding the 600Kwh mark. Our consumption for November to December was 670Kwh so our account, if calculated as previously, should be 70Kwh extra totalling R139.65 (incl. VAT). Consumption for Decem-

ber to January was 683Kwh, so the extra 50Kwh would total R165.58 (incl. VAT) giving a total of R305.23 which we would have paid for the two months. But the municipality has now added our two months together, being 1,353Kwh, and then charged us the extra fee on 753Kwh, and

Christmas card arrives on January 25… As a resident of Plett, I have a postal box and collected mail during last week, on January 25, when a card was posted in my letter box. The envelope was sent ‘BY AIR MAIL’ from Surrey in the UK, posted from the Royal Mail Centre on

December 7 last year - it was meant to reach me before the 25th, as it was a card wishing me greetings for a happy Christmas and New Year. My question is, did any other locals receive overseas mail that was late on

arrival for the festive season? This envelope took more than seven weeks - by airmail! - to reach Plett. Anyone out there who can justify the delay? Mr Postman, please send me a letter to explain… Ann Ellis, Plett

are now expecting us to pay them R1,504. Unfortunately many people pay by debit order and live away from Plett, so do not see their electricity accounts until the amounts have been deducted from their banking accounts. Maybe this is a way of making more money from

those visitors who come here over the festive season and do not care what lights and spotlights are left on all night long. Now we permanent residents, who actually pay their accounts, are being penalised. Great if they can get away with it… We trust that you will get

an official reply from Bitou Municipality with some explanation. John Larter, Plett (No response in this regard or, indeed, an acknowledgement of receipt by Bitou’s Communications department - had been received by going to press. - Eds.)

Bitou licen(s)e plaque needs replacing I refer to your ‘Coming soon….’ on the cover of CXPRESS dated January 18 [visit www.cxpress.co.za]. Would you please be so kind as to contact the executive mayor of Bitou Municipality to ascertain exactly how much this ex-

pensive brass plaque has cost the ratepayers? It now urgently needs to be replaced as the word ‘LICENSE’ is misspelt! Who is now going to foot the bill for the replacement plaque? I trust that it will not be the ratepayers!

Charles Scott, Wilderness (Joburg reader Gavin Nefdt put pen to paper over the same issue last week - turn to page 11 of the January 25 edition at www.cxpress. co.za for his take on ‘Americanisms’. - Eds.)

Thank you so much Philip, Johnny, Peter and crew for your swift recycling-bin action We would like to applaud both the Plett Ratepayers Association and Bitou’s Waste Management Department. After emailing Peter Gaylard (who is in charge of waste management) and Johnny Matthews (tourism) at Plett Ratepayers Association to complain

about the terrible noise of clattering bottles and the filth left by residents who pay no regard to the specified items to be placed in the recycling bins on Longships, action took place swiftly. Within two weeks the bins had been moved! Firstly, we received a

visit from Philip Young of Waste Management, who could not have been more supportive and helpful, and was genuinely sympathetic to guests of our Bed & Breakfast, who have been hearing the clatter as early as 6:30am and right up to midnight. Secondly, a week later

some happy and polite men moved the Bins to the middle of Tino Crescent on Longships Drive instead of right on the doorstep of our popular B&B. Thank you, thank you, thank you - from all the staff and guests at Cornerway House. Kathy Green, Plett

NEAT AS A BIN… The perfectly lined up recycling bins that now find themselves in the middle of the park at Tino Crescent, rather than on the Cornerway House doorstep

CXPRESS

Karate ace John Peach now plies his trade in Knysna and Plett HE South African Japan Karate Association (SA JKA) is the original and largest Karate organisation in South Africa, and JKA is the largest Karate organisation in the world. John Peach is a registered SA JKA member and, having practised the sport since the age of 12, he has competed and officiated at several national and regional events over the past three decades. A semi-retired business professional, John maintains training on a regular

SPORT & ADVENTURE

1 February 2017

basis and competes at national, provincial and regional level in the Veteran categories. Having excelled in his competitive era, John was National KATA (Forms) and Kumite (Sparring) champion/runner up at national and regional events. While representing the SA Air Force and SA Defence Force, colours were attained during his military service conscription in the early 80s. Furthermore, John participated in Japan at the

MANY WINS UNDER HIS BLACK BELT: John Peach is a Japanese graded 4th Dan Black Belt, and now offers weekly training sessions in CX Country - Photo: Watty Watson

26th All Japan JKA World Championships (1983) in the Kumite Team event. But by 1988, he retired from competitions to focus on building a family and establishing his career. Today, John is a Japanese graded 4th Dan Black Belt, and has trained under some of the top instructors in Japan and in South Africa. Being a member of the Honbu Dojo (JKA SA Headquarters), John teaches SA JKA Karate in an informative, practical and fun way to children and adults alike. He incorporates these methods through various fitness platforms in order to get participants active and healthy, while at the same time teaching them a lifesaving skill. John is passionate about sharing his knowledge and experience, and looks forward to teaching you or your child the art of Karate - it’s a way of life! • Knysna sessions take place at The Gym (at the Knysna Royal Hotel) on Mondays and Wednesdays, and at Plettenberg Bay’s Health and Fitness Centre off Piesang Valley Road on Tuesdays and Thursdays. Juniors (6-12 years) train from 2:30 to 3:15pm and seniors (13-19 years) from 3:30 to 4:30pm. See the advert below for contact details.

TransCape MTB race more than just an awesome ride

RIDING FOR FUNDS: The seven-day TransCape race from Knysna to Franschhoek will raise funds to help the less fortunate - Photo: Jacques Marais

N partnership with the Africa Foundation, the TransCape MTB race will use its reach in the cycling fraternity to contribute towards a number of charity projects this year. The third edition of the seven-day mountain biking journey from Knysna to Franschhoek takes place from February 5-11 over a distance of about 650km. And while riders will be able to experience the wonder of travelling through magnificent scenery, they will also have a chance to dip into their pockets to help those less fortunate. Despite the logistics involved in organising an event of this nature, race founders Lenore and Wayne Collett have also thrown their weight behind the charity aspect. “When Wayne did the Cape Epic in 2008, which is when I fell in love with mountain biking, he wanted to ride for a charity and ended up with Africa Foundation,” explained Lenore Collett. “They were raising funds for a community building

KAROO VIEW

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project and we saw the unbelievable work they were doing. We have been involved with them ever since.” A non-profit organisation, the Africa Foundation aims to uplift those living in poor rural communities, while also working towards conservation in South Africa. With branches in Britain and the United States, the foundation has set up projects throughout the African continent to achieve their goals. “There are so many young people in our rural areas who have potential, but they don’t have the opportunity to study. We want to open doors for the less fortunate to have a chance of getting a tertiary education.” Collett added that the bursary project followed a strict qualification process. “You obviously have to work according to your budget and the students have to give back to the community in their vacations in whichever field they are studying.” Collett said they wanted to create a healthy school environment and in doing so give pupils access to the

education facilities they deserved. “Africa Foundation has a very good management system and companies who contribute are able to receive tax benefits, so it is easier for corporates.” The TransCape, which was acquired by ASG Events last year, will also be raising funds for Calitzdorp High School, among others. “The school has supported the event since its inception, with pupils helping out at the venues and with the various functions. They are an awesome team to work with.” Collett said they would raise these funds by promoting the project during the event and encouraging participants to make donations. “We inform the riders each evening of our projects and it picks up momentum during the week.” She said they would have a charity auction at Greyton on the Thursday, with a three-night stay at Ngala Safari Lodge in Mpumalanga as prize. Visit www.transcapemtb. co.za for more information.