21 November 2018

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

On Friday November 16, Plett NSRI issued a safety alert after detecting increased inshore shark activity. Bathers and paddlers along the coastline were urged to proceed with caution, since the fact that a juvenile humpback whale carcass had washed ashore among rocks at Groot Bank, close to Keurboomstrand, had attracted a posse of sharks out for a snack. Turn to page 4 to read photographer Steve Bebington’s background story to this marvellous shot of a great white shark surfacing for a nutritious nibble.

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CXPRESS

NEWS & VIEWS

21 November 2018

Not bothered to plot their way home: Cold War fighters As he explains, at particunever expected to survive MAD mission larly critical times such as the

Correspondent BOB HOPKIN met with a veteran Cold War aviator whose breathtaking story emphasises the luxury of life in the 21st century OUTH Africa’s history may have been turbulent, but one experience we haven’t had to endure is the possibility of nuclear annihilation - unlike North America, Russia, mainland Europe, and the UK. From the middle to the end of the 20th century, and to a lesser extent today, the military option of MAD (Mutually Assured Destruction) was a strategy adopted by the northern hemisphere superpowers that, as a deterrent against an enemy’s first strike, used the threat that both sides would suffer in equal measure in the event of starting a war.

In the 1960s missile technology was in its infancy and nuclear submarines still under development, so the major powers relied upon long-range aircraft to deliver their strategic weapons of mass destruction.

Unwilling to rely completely on their NATO partners (the USA, as their strategic bombers were too far away to respond to a first strike), Britain decided to develop three designs of long-range jet bombers to serve this purpose.

The extravagance of this is still hard to understand but the Valiant, Victor and Vulcan - the famous ‘V bomber’ fleet were all commissioned and saw duty up to and including the Falklands War of 1982.

A veteran of this era and specialist Vulcan pilot, squadron leader Ivor Gallwey played a significant role in this period as he commanded 27 aircraft and crews on three UK airfields, as well as piloting his own aircraft.

Once retired, Ivor and his

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COLD WARRIOR: Ivor Gallwey at his Wilderness home with a photo of his Vulcan jet bomber in the background - Photo: Bob Hopkin

MADNESS AHEAD: Ivor is pictured at left as a Royal Air Force cadet in 1954; above, only one kind of Vulcan exists, the only differences being the paint schemes varying between white and camouflage

wife came to South Africa in 1976 and, after a stay in the Natal Midlands, located to Wilderness some five years ago. An interview with Ivor

gave a sobering realisation of the fragility of life during the Cold War period - a fact largely hidden from the public at the time.

1962 Cuban crisis, all aircrews were on QRA (Quick Reaction Alert), which meant the aircraft were fully fuelled, loaded with a single thermonuclear weapon, and waiting at the end of a runway for the instruction to take off and destroy their target. This was usually a city in the Eastern Bloc.

In Ivor’s case, his crew’s only target was the second-largest city in Russia; Leningrad (now St Petersburg) - a metropolis renowned for its culture, architecture, importance in Russian history, and with a population at the time of some 4-million.

A single airburst over the city centre would have killed hundreds of thousands, if not millions, and wiped out its cultural heart. Luckily for us all, that fateful order was never given.

Now a spritely 82 years old, Ivor looks back on that period with disarming candour.

“We all knew that by joining the armed forces we were putting our lives at risk,” he says, “but as the nuclear strategy developed, it became clear that, should we be deployed, we had little chance of survival as the blast wave from the explosion would destroy the aircraft before we could escape.”

Hard as it is to imagine, they never bothered to plot a route home, as they didn’t expect to survive and, even if they had, there would be no homes or families to come home to after a Russian first strike on the UK - a true doomsday scenario.

The, now diminished, MAD strategy in the 21st century relies on missile submarines for the deterrent but we owe a debt of gratitude to Cold Warriors like Sqr Ldr. Gallwey for their courage and dedication 60 years ago.

NEWS & VIEWS

21 November 2018

CXPRESS

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#TheTotalShutdown: No bail for alleged molester teacher A primary school teacher in Greater Knysna applied for bail, which the state opposed, and was in the midst of a lengthy bail application hearing at the time of going to print - CANDICE LUDICK reports

READ IT AND WEEP: Candice Ludick of #TheTotalShutdown hands the petition to detective Gallant of George SAPS and the NPA’s John Engelbrecht, right, outside the court house on Wednesday November 14

ATIONAL gender activists and advocacy movement #TheTotalShutdown was informed of the Knysna case and asked to show solidarity with the victims in seeking justice.

The accused was arrested on three counts of sexual assault on November 9.

He appeared before the Knysna Magistrate’s Court on November 11, at which time there were five charges of molestation and one charge of sexual grooming against him. #TheTotalShutdown petitioned the Department of Justice, National Prosecuting Authority, and SAPS FCS Sexual Offences Unit

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to keep the accused in custody until his case goes to trial; gather evidence of possible charges against him and possible convictions either in South Africa or any other countries; and to protect the victims who come forward.

A total of 1,566 people signed the petition, either in person at various points throughout Knysna or online, within 36 hours between the accused’s first court appearance and the scheduled bail application hearing.

The petition was handed to detective Gallant of the George SAPS sexual offences unit and John Engelbrecht of the National Prosecuting Authority outside the court

house on November 14.

Colonel Kahn of Knysna SAPS also acknowledged receipt of the petition and thanked #TheTotalShutdown Garden Route task team for their efforts.

The bail application hearing was set for November 14, but was postponed until the 15th for further investigation. The charge of grooming was dropped and replaced with two charges of sexual exploitation.

The bail application hearing continued on Monday and again on Tuesday. The accused remained in custody between hearings.

Social worker, clinical psychologist, and forensic psychologist Pam Tudin elucidated some of the pertinent issues surrounding appropriate processes that protect the victims in cases of this nature.

She explained that sexual molestation is an addictive behaviour, thus posing a huge risk to society while an applicant awaits trial.

The average child molester offends 200 to 400 times before being caught, if ever.

A vast majority of offenders are never caught and have no criminal records because they move around

National channel EWN breaks news of Bitou’s imminent forensic investigation N Monday night, Monique Mortlock reported on Eyewitness News (www.ewn.co.za) that the provincial Local Government department is conducting a forensic investigation into allegations of serious misconduct at Bitou Municipality.

According to the report,

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“this follows a High Court ruling in favour of local government MEC Anton Bredell in a case brought by the Bitou council”.

The EWN report continues: “The council had attempted to prevent a Section 106 investigation, which allows an MEC to investigate a municipality amid allega-

tions of wrongdoing, like fraud or misconduct.

“Following last week’s Western Cape High Court ruling, Bredell can now send a forensic team to conduct a probe into 11 different allegations of misconduct in Bitou Municipality.”

Mortlock adds that the To page 4

to avoid conviction.

Tudin cautioned that the accused’s rights are not the only rights to be considered in this matter - the children’s voices are as significant.

“It is common cause that children do not lie about sexual abuse matters. In fact the opposite, for them to come forward is a fear provoking experience. Un-

like adults who may have a vendetta against an adult, children do not conjure up abuse to seek revenge. Cognitively they do not have a capacity to do so,” she said.

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CXPRESS

NEWS & VIEWS

21 November 2018

Plett lifeguards offer vital service, so commensurate remuneration now essential Plett lifeguard salaries recently landed in the spotlight when it came to light that those working on the town’s beaches have not received a raise in three years - YOLANDÉ STANDER reports

OCAL lifeguard Nexus Lurie has taken the matter up with Bitou Municipality. Lurie said over and above the “meagre” remuneration of R260 per day, lifeguards work under trying circumstances, including dilapidated lifeguard towers and danger-

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ous sea conditions. Lifeguards in neighbouring coastal towns also receive substantially more.

Lurie explained the cost of living had gone up tremendously over the past three years, yet their salaries had remained the same.

“We just can’t survive on

that these days.”

Lurie further said, after various discussions with the municipality, the lifeguards were offered an increase of R20 per day. This, however, came with strings attached including that lifeguards would only work six days a week instead of seven.

He said that before the proposed increase lifeguards were earning R2,080 per week, but would now be receiving R2,100 with the fewer hours on the beach.

He added that this was despite neighbouring towns paying their lifeguards substantially more - up to R380 per day.

“It is understandable, to some degree, as other towns’ lifeguard season only lasts a few months while Bitou’s continues for six months.

We are not asking for that kind of money, we just want R300 per day.”

Lurie said he believed that this was fair as lifeguards not only manned 13 beaches, but played an essential role in Plett’s tourism industry.

“Plett is unique in that, among other things, it is our beaches that attract tourists to the area and subsequently boosts the economy. It is therefore very important to ensure the safety of these visitors while making use of the area’s beaches.”

He said since further discussions with the municipality a new contract was being drawn up and would include another salary offer.

“It is still unclear what this will include.”

This comes after the Plett community banded together to ensure the town’s beaches were manned during the second week of the September school holidays.

The community inter-

vened after several sea emergencies during the first week, including the death of a lagoon user.

The town’s beaches are not manned during off season, which stretches until November 1, but following the tragedy, the local community raised enough funds to have lifeguards on the town’s most popular swimming beaches.

Bitou Municipality was contacted for comment on the issues around lifeguard salaries, but did not respond before going to print.

• Nexus Lurie serves as captain of Plett Surf Lifesaving Club (PSLC).

When CXPRESS contacted PSLC chairman James Stewart for comment on the issue, he confirmed that Plett’s lifeguards were employed by Bitou Municipality and said most of them were club members.

“Many of them have come through our ranks from the age of six years old. They all go through training programmes at the club and testing based on Lifesaving South Africa standards before they can get a job with the municipality or any other body that employs lifeguards.

“We feel that the club offers a base that qualifies a large number of youngsters to become professional lifeguards, both within South Africa and abroad - from Dubai to cruise liners,” said Stewart.

“The ethos of lifesaving around the world is based on volunteerism and discipline. In support of the club and its administration structure, we continue to try and instil these traits in all our members before they move onto professional lifesaving ranks.”

ALL SYSTEMS GO: Plett lifeguard Byron Gorridon gives the thumbs up on Plett’s Robberg 5 Blue Flag beach Photo: Brendon Morris - www.brendonmorris.com

Shutter action caused by great white bite would put paparazzi to shame Steve Bebington

N November 15, Dr Gwen Penry sent a request to be on the lookout for a dead whale seen floating off Nature’s Valley by crew on an unnamed fishing vessel.

Later that morning, the marine survey team headed to Nature’s Valley to commence their monthly observations, and reported to Ocean Blue Adventures that the carcass had been seen adjacent to Salt River Point - and that it was, in fact, a juvenile humpback whale.

At 3pm that afternoon, when I launched our vessel on a whale-watching excursion, I had received word

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that the whale was now further west, in the vicinity of Grootbank (approximately midway between Salt River and Keurbooms village).

We eventually located the carcass floating just inside of Grootbank.

On arrival, there wasn’t much going on aside from gulls perched on the whale.

However, it was evident that sharks had been scavenging around the tail stock.

After a while, a shark rose alongside the whale and started feeding. Moments later a second, approximately 4m great white shark passed within a metre of the boat, also going on to scavenge from the carcass.

In 10 years of marine

excursions, this definitely ranks as a career highlight and it was fantastic to share the experience with visitors from all over the world, whose camera shutters put the paparazzi to shame.

I was elated to manage capturing the cover shot in rather difficult conditions.

• Steve Bebington (Flukeprint Photography, IG flukeprintphoto) is attached to Ocean Blue Adventures (oceanadventures.co.za). At the time of the NSRI report, Bitou Municipal Solid Waste Removal personnel were investigating options to remove or dispose of the carcass. Contact NSRI Plett on 082 990 5975 in case of emergency around the coast.

Bitou’s imminent forensic investigation From page 3 allegations include the establishment of “ghost companies” run by municipal officials”.

Bredell’s spokesperson, James-Brent Styan, is quoted expressing the hope that investigations would be car-

ried out with Bitou’s cooperation. “We welcome this latest judgment,” said Styan.

The EWN report concludes that the department was conducting a similar investigation at George Municipality, while the Hawks were in the process

of independently investigating George, as well as the Kannaland, Beaufort West, and Oudtshoorn municipalities.

“Eyewitness News has been unable to get a comment from the Bitou Municipality.”

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CXPRESS

NEWS & VIEWS

21 November 2018

Clever Kwano learners compete for victory in spelling stakes WE ARE THE CHAMPIONS: A few of the KwaNokuthula Primary kids and staff from left are Mrs Luywantsi and Mrs Cola, with principal Mr Faleni, who is pictured kneeling with the trophy at centre Photo: Lynette Mullins ShowMe Plett

HE inaugural ‘Bitou Spelling Stars’ took place at KwaNokuthula Primary School on November 2 and 7.

The initiative aims to encourage all learners to improve their reading and comprehension skills, further developing their literacy outcomes. And came finals day, it provided a platform to promote healthy competition in a supportive environment, while also improving learners’ confidence to speak in public.

Learners from KwaNo-

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kuthula and Phakamisani Primary were given a list of words, pertaining to their grades, in both English and isiXhosa. All learners competed in internal school challenges.

The next step was for 56 learners to be selected from Grade 1 to 7 to compete at the inter-schools event. The end results showed KwaNokuthula Primary as the overall winners. All participants received medals in recognition of their achievements.

Special thanks are due to the Bitou 10 Foundation

(B10F), KwaNokuthula Municipal Library, and those teachers and judges who assisted with the organisation of the initiative.

Trophies and medals were generously sponsored by a supporter of the B10F; flowers donated by Ruby’s Kisses at The Market Square adorned the stage, and refreshments were kindly prepared by Andrie Combrink.

Well done to all the children who excelled beyond their means, making their principals and teachers particularly proud.

Skerpstes in elke graad ontvang hul top sertifikate Tydens Plettenbergbaai Sekondêre Skool se onlangse diploma plegtigheid is hierdie leerders as toppresteerders aangewys - van links is Nicole Meswati (Gr 8), Ashleigh Plaatjies (Gr 9), Veronique Davids (Gr 10), Tashlyn Jansen (Gr 11), en Carlos Jantjies (Gr 12), wie daarna uitsien om volgende jaar Bsc Rekenaarwetenskap

by UWK te gaan studeer danksy Born in Africa.

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NEWS & VIEWS

21 November 2018

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CXPRESS

How sick* is the English language?

XFORD University Press is appealing to South African youngsters to submit their unique words and expressions to its website. Words selected will be published in the latest version of the Oxford English Dictionary (OED).

Check out these real examples taken from Twitter: • This guy’s acting script is goals bafwethu.

The lingo is on point, vantuka straight.

• ‘Kentant’ is the new ‘pishang’.

• Panyaza for sure…

If you understand any or all of that, then you may be able to help the OED with its latest quest, which is wanting to hear about the unique words and expressions used by children and young peo-

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ple today.

In South Africa, these words and expressions often come from Tsotsitaal (also known as Flaaitaal) or more recently from i’Scamtho - a new youth language spoken in the kasi (townships), which is a mix of several of the country’s official languages.

These include, most notably and in alphabetical order, Afrikaans, English, isiXhosa, isiZulu, and Sesotho, with examples such as ‘blesser’ for sugar daddy, ‘G-string’ for BMW (due to the design of the front grill), and ‘zozo’ for a shack.

Words that many of us hear for the first time from younger people often have a bigger story to tell about varieties of English used by particular

ethnic or cultural groups, and their influence on the language as a whole.

The OED’s aim is to record all distinctive words that shape the language, old and new, formal and informal.

Slang terms are always challenging for dictionary editors to track but young people’s language today can be particularly elusive, because the terms that are in vogue change so rapidly and newer ephemeral modes of communication (texting, WhatsApp, Snapchat, etc.) make it difficult to monitor and record this kind of vocabulary.

That’s why the OED editors need help in identifying the language used by children and teenagers today.

Even if the examples

About Oxford University Press XFORD University Press (OUP) is a department of the University of Oxford and furthers the university’s objective of excellence in research, scholarship, and educa-

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tion by publishing worldwide. It is the world’s largest university press with the widest global presence and currently publishes thousands of new publications a year. With offic-

es in around 50 countries, it employs nearly 7,000 people worldwide.

In SA, OUP is the number-one literacy publisher well known for its reading schemes, the publishing

above leave you bewildered, you can still assist. Do your children, grandchildren, students, or teenage neighbours use words that are completely unfamiliar to you - or familiar words in very unfamiliar ways?

Since when did ‘blind’ mean exciting or cool?

Who decided that if someone is a ‘cheese boy’, he is a spoilt brat? Do you remember words from your own childhood that are not yet recorded in the dictionary, e.g. the names of playground games?

Join the conversation on Twitter at #youthslang appeal or visit https:// public.oed.com/appeals/ youth-words/ to contribute your words. *sick, adj. Excellent, impressive, cool

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of the world’s most trusted dictionaries (including dictionaries in local languages), as well as innovative digital solutions for blended learning. It also publishes textbooks in various subjects for the higher-education market.

Durbanville’s own antique roadshow SPECIAL VALUATION AND PURCHASING DAY DURBANVILLE LIBRARY, CNR OXFORD & KOEBERGS ROADS, DURBANVILLE, MONDAY 19 NOVEMBER 1PM UNTIL 4PM Don’t miss the chance to discover if you have treasure in the attic...

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ROM Coventry to Cape Town, antiques expert Andy Elton has been putting a price on family heirlooms and forgotten relics for over 40 years... and now he’s coming to Durbanville Library

The founder of Bentley’s UK - which sets up shop in the Durbanville Library - is just the man to make your dreams come true – or let you down gently.

“A lot of people are very unsure as to the worth of their items, which may have been stored for years in cupboards, lofts, garages and even garden sheds,” says Andy. “Others are convinced they’re bringing something that’s worth a fortune.

“You can open a box and know you’re not going to find anything of value.

But they’re showing

you something that is part of their heritage – you’ve got to be diplomatic.”

On the other hand, Andy is in a position to break some very welcome news: “One gentleman had a Rolex Submariner watch, which had lain unworn in a cupboard since it was given to him by his uncle. He was amazed when I offered him R30 000.

“Then there was the time in South Africa when someone came along with a dusty bronze which turned out to be a rare work by the sculptor Anton Van Wouw – I valued that at R100 000.”

Andy prides himself on offering a fair price: “I treat people as I would want to be treated myself,” he says.

“Everyone wants to make a profit, but you’ve got to be honest.

“I’ve got customers who have been coming to me for 15 years and others who have been referred to me by family and friends. I think that speaks for itself.”

He’s always been interested in antiques and jewellery and has worked with two of the major auction houses in London and another in Nottingham. But he prefers to be his own boss.

“I’ve travelled all over the UK and I regularly go to South Africa, meeting thousands of people along the way,” he says.

“You come across some wonderful

stories; I love hearing about how grandad got his medals.

“You never know what the day will bring – that’s why it’s such a lovely job. I’m a very lucky man. Hopefully I’ll be making someone in Durbanville Library very happy!”

The Bentley’s UK valuation and purchasing day runs in the Durbanville Library.

Bentley’s UK Mobile 076 338 2749 info@bentleysuk.com www.bentleysuk.com

Bentleys UK have been in business since 1980: we pride ourselves on our honesty & integrity

Any gent’s mechanical Omega wristwatch, we will pay you a minimum of R500 (In any condition)

Rolex Submariners, we pay you a minimum of R25 000 (Even if not working)

Swords, daggers, cape badges, old uniforms... Any items connected with wars are extremely sought after

Re-saleable silver items required e.g. tea services, trays, picture frames etc.

(We also purchase any broken silver items)

Medals, over the last few years, have increased dramatically in value. Also required are any First or Second World War groups, campaign medals, cap badges or any thing relating to wars or militaria. (Please don’t clean your medals)

Amber beads, as pictured: we will offer a minimum of R2 000 Bring them along and let us surprise you!

Coins (GB & world, sovereigns, Krugerrands, Royal Mint proof sets), antiques, paintings, wristwatches, pocket watches, gold (English & foreign), silver, re-saleable jewellery items, amber, jade & ivory, any articles by Cartier, Tiffany, Aspreys, etc. Dinky & Corgi toys, Moorcroft & Clarice Cliff pottery, medals & militaria, clocks, swords & bayonets, pre-1947 crowns/five shillings – R50 minimum paid.

Wanted: Dinky, Corgi, Matchbox, Hornby & Dublo train sets; Britains, Diecast toys, dolls, teddy bears, Action Men etc.

WANTED: wristwatches including – Rolex, Omega, Jaeger, Breitling, Universal, IWC, Patek, military watches, Tissot, Seiko... in fact most makes, any condition.

Plus any watch or clock-related items.

We buy broken gold in any form: Asian, Indian, Middle Eastern, dental...& any thing un-hallmarked, gold cigarette cases

Sovereigns: we pay a minimum of R2 500 Krugerrands: we pay up to R20 000 (NB: prices are guaranteed)

Look in your cupboards and drawers for any old fountain pens – we have a database of collectors waiting.

Old jewellery is extremely sought after at the moment – and we pay a large premium for any re-saleable items.

For any other information or home visits call:

076 338 2749

Andy Elton is a fully licensed buyer and valuer The experts of Bentley’s UK will be present, cash purchase offers will be available, no obligation, no appointment necessary.

Office Main Road Sea Point info@ bentleysuk.com www.bentleysuk.com

ID REQUIRED

We guarantee to give you a true valuation. Immediate cash payment. If it’s just a valuation you want, please visit us.

However, if that’s not possible, we are happy to visit you – just call us on the number below. Please visit our website www.bentleysuk.com and read the testimonials.

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CXPRESS

NEWS & VIEWS

21 November 2018

Shepherding back biodiversity Farmers around the world are facing ever-escalating pressures to grow more food while preserving the world’s biodiversity - to succeed, agriculture and biodiversity conservation efforts must walk hand in hand ITHOUT biodiversity, there is no future for humanity. The air we breathe, the water we drink and the food we eat all rely on biodiversity, but right now it is in crisis - because of us.

The way in which commercial livestock farming has been done for generations in South Africa has had an enormous impact on biodiversity and fauna and flora on these farms.

When commercial farmers suffer livestock losses, more often than not predators such as jackal, caracal and leopard are blamed.

Many farmers have for many years declared war on these predators and use all means of cruel methods to mitigate losses.

Shooting predators on sight, the use of predatorproof fencing, gin traps and poison bait all have horrendous impacts, often killing harmless animals like bateared foxes, aardwolf, Cape foxes, porcupines, large eagles and vultures.

The fact that the ‘problem’ remains despite these great efforts should speak for itself.

Managing our livestock farms by killing apex predators has not only affected wildlife numbers and their natural systems, but has altered landscapes and put a great deal of pressure on our biodiversity.

What does this mean for our future, and can we stop the downward spiral?

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Bool Smuts, CEO of the conservation NGO Landmark Foundation, believes he has pioneered a possible solution to this problem that could prove to be as beneficial to livestock farmers as it is to indigenous predators.

The aptly named Shepherding Back Biodiversity project is the latest in a long string of Landmark Foundation conservation initiatives.

With the help of a generous philanthropist and funding from the Global Environmental Fund, a 24,000ha farm was purchased in the Karoo near Beaufort West in 2015 and a farming model that involves re-thinking how rangelands are managed has been rolled out since.

Rather than using the traditional fenced ‘camps’ - where a large ranch is divided into many smaller camps and livestock are periodically moved from one to another and generally left unattended for months with ample opportunity for predators to strike and detrimental effects on grazing the Landmark Foundation has, simply put, brought back farming methods of the historical past.

Temporary, portable kraals are erected and paired with trained human shepherds.

Livestock (presently cattle and sheep) are shepherded to suitable pastures by day, and then back to the security of the kraal, come nightfall.

The magic of the method

lies in the shepherds. More than mere guardsmen, they are experts in their craft, guiding livestock to appropriate grazing sites and moving them to new pastures when the time is right.

They are trained to monitor the condition of the most palatable plants in the veld, so that they can avoid overgrazing and degradation of the natural vegetation. When an area has been optimally grazed, the kraal is simply disassembled and moved to the next area, allowing farmers to do away with patchwork camps altogether.

The removal of camp fences is one of the obvious environmental gains of the system. This shepherding method has had numerous benefits, most notably the fact that in the three-year pilot period, not a single head of livestock has been lost to predators.

With the livestock being moved at regular intervals, a natural migration cycle on the land has been reestablished, the vegetation is not overgrazed, the land is heavily manured so sees a healthy regrowth, along with rapid regeneration of flora and even the return of wildlife - a concept known as ‘rewilding’.

There have been huge benefits for humans, too. “The project has created stable jobs for rural workers,” says Smuts, “allowing them to learn a skilled trade, enjoy long-term employment as expert herders, and be ad-

PROTECTING HIS FLOCK: Shepherd Hendrik Wee has gained a mission - Photo: Jonathan Taylor

mired with elevated status.”

Working to roll out this farming model further, the initiative has also developed a herding academy, a research site involving six different research institutions, several research projects and a brand scheme development known as Fair Game - wildlife-friendly, ethically sourced rangeland meats.

“I believe that this, in particular, will drive the project’s success,” says Smuts.

“With an ever-increasing number of consumers want-

ing to buy meat without guilt, and prepared to pay a premium for it, farmers are given an incentive for adopting predator-friendly farming practices.”

In the words of Gerald Durrell: “The world is as delicate and as complicated as a spider’s web. If you touch one thread you send shudders running through all the other threads. We are not just touching the web; we are tearing great holes in it.”

But like a spider does, we can also rebuild the threads,

making new connections between agriculture and biodiversity conservation.

That time is now.

• The Landmark Foundation, well known for its leopard and other cat rescues in the Southern and Eastern Cape, will launch its Fair Game Wildlife Friendly Products brand on its pilot site farm near Beaufort West. Contact Dr Bool Smuts on 083 324 3344 or at bool@landmarkfounda tion.org.za and see www. fairgame.org.za for details.

Global survey shows world’s most generous nations as we count down to Giving Tuesday OUTH Africa is the continent’s 10th most generous nation, while many other African countries have climbed this year’s global rankings in the 2018 CAF World Giving Index a leading comparative study of global generosity that records the number of people who helped a stranger in the past month, volunteered their time, or gave money to a good cause.

This year, more than 150,000 people in 146 countries were surveyed as part of the Gallup World Poll.

For the third year in a row, the African continent has seen a strong improvement in its score. Many African countries have risen up the rankings; nine of the 21 most improved countries share our continent, including Niger, Madagascar and Morocco, while in the top 20 of the overall ranking Kenya, Nigeria, Liberia and Sierra Leone represent Africa.

Kenya has the continent’s highest CAF World Giving Index score (54%), followed

by Nigeria (48%).

South Africa is ranked 40th in the world this year with 72% of the country’s respondents saying they helped a stranger while 34% donated their time. In addition, 17% of South Africa’s respondents said they donated money.

Libya is the most generous country in the world when it comes to helping a stranger, with 83% of respond-

S

ents having done so in the month prior to being interviewed. Nigeria returned to the top 20 of the overall ranking for the first time since 2013, in 16th place.

Despite it being a difficult year for DR Congo, it finished as the most improved country with a one-year score 12% higher than its five-year average.

The giving gap between continents has also narrowed, with Africa once again catching up. Five years ago, Africa was three points behind Europe, six points behind Asia and seven points behind the Americas.

This year, there is only one percentage point between all four of these continents.

Indonesia tops the CAF World Giving Index for the first time. Polling was carried out in 2017, before the earthquake and tsunami which struck the country in September 2018.

Volunteered time at 21.1% is up from 20.8% last year, while global giving of money to a good cause is down slightly from 29.6% last year to this year’s 29.1%. The Index highlights statistically significant global shifts in behaviour, even when changes may appear to be small.

Other key findings of this year’s CAF World Giving Index include: Western countries have bounced back; last year, every western country in the top 20 had a lower World Giving Index score. This decline has

now been largely reversed.

Some developing countries performed strongly; this year’s Index shows high levels of generosity in Haiti, with the country featuring in the top 20 for the first time.

Singapore also features in the top 20 for the first time; the country ranked as low as 64th place just five years ago. There have been increases in volunteering and helping a stranger, which may be as a result of a number of schemes to increase volunteering in the country over recent years The Index is published during the month preceding #GivingTuesday, November 27 - the global day of giving when people are asked to avail their time, money or voice to a good cause.

Says Charities Aid Foundation chief executive John Low: ““It is good news that this year’s CAF World Giving Index shows a continued increase in giving across Africa. It is also encouraging that last year’s decline in western countries seems to have been reversed.”

Gill Bates is chief executive of CAF Southern Africa. He adds: “It’s very encouraging that almost three-quarters of people polled in South Africa had helped a stranger in the last month - the same proportion as the previous year.”

• Charities Aid Foundation is an international charity that helps people and companies to give worldwide.

ACTIVITIES

21 November 2018

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BUSINESS

21 November 2018

Red-hot tips to finish your Black Friday shopping spree in the green ETAILERS started getting shoppers revved up for the holidays with festive season advertising last month, and mania around Black Friday and Cyber Monday is no exception.

Black Friday falls on November 23 - the traditional kick-off to the shopping season and often the busiest shopping day of the year.

November 26 is Cyber Monday, born out of retailers trying to persuade customers to shop online.

“South Africa is the latest country to follow these two shopping crazes, and while there are some great deals to be found, consumers need to watch their

R

Read CXPRESS online at www.cxpress.co.za

spending, especially in the current economy where downsizing and restructuring is leading to retrenchments,” says Rita Cool, certified financial planner at Alexander Forbes.

Cool says there are a number of ways to ensure that you remain a responsible shopper.

“Know your prices, as a discount is not always a bargain. Only buy with a list to keep spending in check. Don’t just look around as you might be tempted to buy something you didn’t need.

“Keep a budget in mind - not only what you can spend but also how you will pay it back if you are buying on credit. Keep

the interest on the credit card in mind as the discount might not be as good as you think when you have to buy on credit.

“Finally, if you are in debt, avoid temptation and stay away from the shops on Black Friday.”

How do financiallysavvy people make these sales work best for them?

Cool offers the following tips to ensure you don’t finish your Black Friday shopping in the red: • Shop online as early as possible when the sales open if you are really shopping for something specific.

• Save your money by not surfing the web aimlessly on the day as this will open

you up to temptations.

• Research products beforehand so you know the exact product you want.

The model number on sale might not be the one you wanted and in your haste to “save” you could end up buying the incorrect item.

• Save up over the year if you know you want to buy something big.

• Start checking prices during the year as some companies might increase their prices leading up to the end of the year so it can appear that they are discounting a lot, but they are actually just discounting a little on average prices.

• Ask yourself if you are buying for a need or a want.

ADVERTORIAL

Marvellous long-term accommodation news for permanent Plettenberg Bay residents T is with great anticipation and excitement that the shareholders of Ronic Enterprises are announcing the imminent launch of Yikusasa Estate, to be situated in Ladywood on the western entrance to Plettenberg Bay This estate will be made up of 344 units comprising one, two, and three-bedroom units to be developed over three phases, with the first phase scheduled to begin in February 2019.

Ideally located in the heart of the Garden Route, Yikusasa is nestled between the picturesque hills of the Piesang Valley and surrounds, in

I

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The estate is conveniently positioned a short way from the beauty of Plett’s beaches and the centre of town, which boasts restaurants, shopping malls, destinations shops, markets, and night life.

There is a selection of purchase opportunities and the emphasis is on providing long-term accommodation for permanent residents of Plettenberg Bay. It appears to be an ideal opportunity for young professionals who may be looking to start their property portfolio with a smaller investment, folk

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The Yikusasa development team is made up of enthusiastic people who are dedicated to making your investment hassle free. The team has access to accountants, attorneys, and bankers to ensure an uncomplicated purchase, and the shareholders are very much ‘on the ground’ to assist with

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sales and enquiries.

Yikusasa loosely translates as ‘The Future’ and the vision is an exciting new venture building The Future.

An official launch of Yikusasa Estate will be held at LM Restaurant in Main Street, Plettenberg Bay on Friday December 21 from 4pm to 6:30pm and is open to the public. Staff will be available to answer any questions you may have and to show floor plans of property units.

In the meanwhile, sales and general enquiries can be addressed to admin@ ronicenterprises.co.za or please call 044 533 0656 for details.

082 251 8134

BUSINESS

21 November 2018

CXPRESS

It’s crunch time for the South African Reserve Bank...

Much is at stake as our Reserve Bank has to decide this week on raising interest rates or keeping them on hold, writes STUART MURRAY HE pendulum is swinging either way in terms of the Reserve Bank’s interest rate call at its Monetary Policy Committee meeting on Thursday this week.

Economists are divided on the issue, but the Brexit chaos and the resulting improvement in the strength of the rand due to increased demand for emerging market currencies, may just influence the vote towards holding the Repo rate steady at 6.5%.

The rand has improved against the US dollar this month after hitting its lowest level this year (at 15.69) in September. The dipping international oil price also gave the rand a temporary boost.

However, a rise in interest rates could further impact negatively on local investment markets, whose performance this year has been doleful.

For the Reserve Bank, rising inflation is a major concern and it has cau-

T

tioned against underplaying the chance of inflation rising above 6% this year.

Deputy governor Lesetja Kganyago recently commented: “We have talked about increasing interest rates but we are not contemplating hikes of hundreds of points.”

The bank has remained sanguine about the cur-

basis points increase, while four members plumped for no change.

And while the political agenda might point against rocking the boat at the present time, there is an argument for the bank to act proactively now in order to avoid having to take tightening measures early in the new year.

‘It’s not politically wise to implement an interest rate increase so close to a general election’ rent inflation rate - as long as it hovers within its target range of 3-6%.

But last month it was a fraction under 5%, which is getting uncomfortably close to the 6% red line.

Tactically, it is not considered politically wise to implement an interest rate increase so close to a general election. But economists are divided as to what is expected from this week’s Monetary Policy Committee meeting.

At its last gathering, three members voted for a 25

Interestingly, and of significance to South Africa’s economic situation, the US Federal Bank has raised interest rates three time this year, and is expected to do so again next month. The result of the Fed’s tightening policy has been massive market volatility.

So what will the SARB’s call be this week?

In a Reuters poll this month of 26 South African economists, 16 reckoned that the bank would keep its repo rate at 6.5%.

The rest voted for a 25 basis point increase.

The poll results indicate a 45% chance of an increase this month, suggesting that the bank may not wait until January or March before raising the rate to 6.75%.

The decision is critical.

As previously mentioned, investors are battling, with the JSE sitting at 12% off its peak - with the only real shining light coming from the Gold Index, as investors sought cover from the market turmoil caused by Brexit. * South Africa, according to the Centre for Risk Analysis at the Institute of Race Relations, is in its longest downward business cycle since the end of World War II - and it is still heading down.

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

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11

12

CXPRESS

INTERVAL

21 November 2018

Die hormoongids vir getroude mans OE om met jou vrou te praat...

• Lewens gevaarlik: “Wat is vir aandete?”

Gevaarlik: “Kan ek jou help met die ete?”

Veilig: “Waar wil jy vanaand gaan uiteet?”

Veiligste: “Hier, skat, drink bietjie wyn.”

• Lewens gevaarlik: “Gaan jy rêrig DIT aantrek?”

Gevaarlik: “Jy lyk pragtig in bruin.”

Veilig: “Haai! Kyk nou net vir jou!”

Veiligste: “Hier, skat, drink bietjie wyn.”

• Lewens gevaarlik: “Waaroor is jy so opgewerk?”

Gevaarlik: “Kan dit wees dat jy oor-reageer?”

H

Velig: “Hier. Vat my salaristjek. Dis joune.”

Veiligste: “Hier, skat, drink bietjie wyn.”

• Lewens gevaarlik: “Dink jy jy moet rêrig daai kaaskoek eet?”

Gevaarlik: “Het jy geweet ons het nog baie appels?”

Veilig: “Kan ek vir jou ‘n stukkie sjokolade daarmee bedien?”

Veiligste: “Hier, skat, drink bietjie wyn.”

• Lewens gevaarlik: “Wat het JY heeldag gedoen?”

Gevaarlik: “Ek hoop nie jy het dit vandag oordoen nie.”

Veilig: “Ek was nog altyd mal oor jou in daai kamerjas!”

Veiligste: “Hier, skat, drink bietjie wyn.”

Beware of elderly drivers...

WO elderly women were out driving in a large, old car. Both could barely see over the car’s dashboard.

As they were cruising along, they came to an intersection. The traffic light was red, but they just went on through.

The woman in the passenger seat thought to herself: “I must be losing it. I could have sworn we drove through a red light.”

They drove for a few more minutes and came to another intersection, the light was red, and again they went right through.

T

This time, the passenger was almost sure that the light had been red, but was also concerned that she might be seeing things. She was getting nervous and decided to pay very close attention.

At the next intersection, sure enough, the light was definitely red and they blew right through it.

She turned to her friend and said: “Mildred! Do you know you ran three red lights in a row? You could have killed us!”

Mildred turned to her and said: “I thought you were driving!”

Fore!

T the end of his tenth and final golf lesson, the elderly man asked the pro how he had performed.

“Well,” replied the instructor, “you’ll never

A

be a pro, but you can get personal enjoyment out of the game, and the exercise will do you good.

“Your main problem is that you are too close to the ball after you swing.”

They have finally found the gene for shyness: It was hiding behind two other genes...

BLACK FRIDAY IN THE UNITED STATES BE LIKE...

BLACK FRIDAY IN CANADA BE LIKE...

Black Friday wisecrack ICTURE this American scene: it was just after Thanksgiving, and the judge was in a happy mood. He asked the prisoner in the dock: “What are you charged with?”

“Doing my Black Fri-

P

day shopping too early,” the prisoner replied.

“That’s no crime,” said the judge. “Just how early were you doing this shopping?”

“Before the shop opened,” answered the prisoner.

How can you tell which one of your friends got a good Black Friday deal?

Don’t worry they’ll let you know.

Black Friday isle chatter WO old friends were shopping on Black Friday and ran into each other in the vegetable isle.

When they started to discuss their home lives, one said: “Seems like all Mike and I do anymore

T

is fight. I’ve been so upset I’ve lost 10kg.”

“Why don’t you just leave him then?” her friend asked.

“Oh no - not yet!” the other replied. “I’d like to lose at least another 7kg.”

SOCIAL SCENE

21 November 2018

CXPRESS

NOT RESTING ON HER LAURELS: Tshisa Talent winner of 2012, Louisa Harker, did not simply disappear. She went on to record a solo album supported by other local artists as well as some duets - and she didn’t stop there. Louisa went on to traverse the Garden Route in a bid to unite all vocalists willing to sing the Lord’s praises.

The concept was born and materialised when Ministers Uniting with One Voice, pictured at right, held their opening show on Saturday November 10. Although they are starting small, the New Horizons audience was treated to the best gospel performance heard in a long time. Singers from Oudtshoorn and Kranshoek joined the New Horizons contingent and sang as one while emphasising the word of God. Says spokesman Adam van Rhyner: “The highlight and also saddest moment of the show was when Virgyl Anthony and Louisa paid tribute to a fallen gospel praise singer from Knysna - the late Alfred Aweries aka ‘Miggie, who died just recently. The whole hall was lit up with candles, and even those who didn’t know him shed a tear. The show was well mastered by local sound engineer Newton Windvogel, giving the event the technical support it deserved.

Ministers Uniting with One Voice members are planning a Garden Route tour and we hope that local communities would support their outreach excursion.” Email Adam at plettnaar@gmail.com for details.

People, places & events PERFECT CHEMISTRY: The branch at Plett’s Market Square was well represented during the 2018 Clicks Healthcare Conference held at Emperors Palace in Joburg recently. No less than two nominations included Pharmacy Team of the Year as well as Pharmacist Assistant of the Year for Nadia Prins, pictured at left with Clicks pharmacy manager, aka ‘Hoofmeisie’, Suzaan Groenewald. Says Suzaan: “The award winners were announced on Thursday night November 8 during a very fancy gala event. Overall national winners were Ilanga Mall in Nelspruit, but we won both Pharmacy and Assistant of the Year awards for the Western Cape region.” What a boon for Plett, congrats to all involved!

DIARISE THESE DATES: Friday night’s Trivia Quiz organiser Barry Ricketts informed CXPRESS that even though there may be load-shedding scheduled from 6pm to 8:30pm, plans are in place to continue the event as a Quiz by Candlelight. “After all, nobody will be able to watch TV!” says Barry, adding that delightful meals will be cooked on the braai at Plett Bowling Club and served with salads. “We are asking each team to bring a camping table light and head-torches so we can continue - and ‘damn the torpedoes’!

If you know of any couch potatoes who might prefer an evening of fun, please get them to grab the last of the few empty tables.” The fun starts at 6:30pm; R100 per person includes your supper and teams may have six members max.

Call Barry on 072 890 6230 or email barryricketts48@hotmail. com to book. Pictured at left is some of the pretty Christmas decorations created by Plett’s Differently-abled Awareness Campaign. On the Social page of last week, we reported that these goods would be on display at the BI KwikSpar - and please take note that sale dates have now been confirmed for November 30 and December 1. Call Rita on 082 560 2606 and turn to page 9 of the November 14 edition at www.cxpress. co.za to see some of the other delights on sale.

CHANGE A CHILD’S FUTURE WITH R100: Do you know about a wonderfully easy way to make a big difference to the future of thousands of local youngsters? For just R100 a month, you can change the life of a child through Lunchbox Theatre’s After School’s Activities Programme (ASAP). More than 80 ASAP children put their hearts into staging a motivating Dance and Drama Showcase on November 10. They are seen above receiving performance certificates on stage, with an inspiring backdrop made by differently-abled kids from Formosa Primary. The pic at left below show some of the drama fun, as well as the incredibly versatile crew of instructors. Below from left are Siyabonga Zabo, Donne Rundle, Antonio Moos with daughter Zemira, Nomzamo Maga, Nkosinathi Xipula, Ntombizodwa Ntoni, and Amanda Valela. If you can find it in your heart to give a child a better future with extra lessons in art, drama or dance, visit https://lunchbox.org. za/upliftment/ for details. There is a long list of kids wanting to join the programme and all a child needs is for someone to care enough to fund these classes next year. Let’s increase the number of ASAP kids, get them off the streets and onto the stage, which will set more children on a prosperous path in 2019. Your investment goes straight into their future.

Storms River

TIN HOUSE Self-catering accommodation

13

14

CXPRESS

21 November 2018

CLASSIFIEDS

Handyman on call - 082 492 4417

ON THE SOAPBOX

21 November 2018

Letters to the Editor

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

Plett Open Gardens - thank YOU! The annual PAWS Open Gardens event went off without a hitch, thanks to the wonderful weather and the 322 visitors from the Garden Route who came out to view our lovely local gardens.

Three of the gardens (De Bruyn, Rae, and Hawkes) were in the attractive Brackenridge Estate. Our visitors always enjoy the opportunity to explore this estate because of the fabulous views in all directions, along with many other attractive properties and public spaces.

The Van Rooyen garden was very different, featuring some dramatic sculptural plants, but at each of the venues it was a pleasure to see so many happy people enjoying a perfect Plett day outdoors.

We are grateful to the many people who contributed to the success of the day, helping us to raise over R50,000 (again!) towards our Primary Health Care Service for the neglected and abused dogs and cats of the Bitou municipal area.

Our sincere thanks go to: the generous owners who opened their glorious gardens; Rae Gilbert for hosting us at her magnificent Bosky Dell Rose Garden (and her generous donation from the tea garden); all who donated delicious homebaked cakes to sell.

We are also indebted to CemAir for transporting our Christmas cakes from Cape Town; Paula Maclachlan and Wendy Jones and their plant ladies who collected and sold plants; the nurseries and individuals who donated plants and cut Proteas; and those who bought raffle tickets for a David HallGreen painting.

We thank all our valued volunteers who made sure everything went well at the gardens and, of course, everyone who supported PAWS by enjoying a pleasant day outdoors.

The raffle winner will be announced on Wednesday November 21. Thank you, one and all!

Marsja Hall-Green obo PAWS

Read CXPRESS online at www.cxpress.co.za

Still don’t know about bargains at PAWS charity shop?

Plett Animal Welfare Service volunteer John Larter shared these pics and wrote: “I thought these two images might be of interest to your readers. The pic of the PAWS Charity Shop, above, is for the few people who still don’t know where it is and the bargains that are always available. The pic below shows yours truly - I volunteer twice a week and normally arrive with scraps for the regular dogs that are always there to get meals from PAWS. They all have names and obviously come from the houses in the area. I have them trained now and they sit patiently as their food is handed out. They all come rushing to me when I arrive!”

Bidding adieu to Anne Davis To a very special person who did so much for the children at Greenwood Bay College (GBC) and in Plett: Anne Davis, you will be missed.

Our heartfelt condolences go to her family and friends. From all of us at GBC.

Leigh Gips obo Greenwood Bay College, Plett (Anne was an educational psychologist who worked independently, but had built up a special relationship with the children and staff whom she worked with at GBC. - Eds.)

Thanks for showing discipline during our extraordinary football congress

UNIQUELY GLORIOUS: Some of the gardens that combined to charm visitors to this year’s greatest outdoors Plett Animal Welfare Service fundraiser

CXPRESS

Plettenberg Bay Local Football Association (PBLFA) had its elective extraordinary congress earlier this month in New Horizons. It was well attended by members in good standing, and a delegation from SAFA Eden was present to officiate during the election of the new office bearers.

The chairperson, secretary, and treasurer positions were unopposed but the three male vice chairperson candidates were subjected to a vote. SAFA statutes state that only three vice chairs should be elected, one of which has to be female.

The end result was thus:

chairperson Derick Philander; vice chairs Adam van Rhyner, Tshepiso Mokoena, and Sixolise Mtirara; secretary Marius Jafta; treasurer Rusty Windvogel.

Additional members are Mpakamise Mbali, Sipho Mtembu, Charlotte Qeqe, John-Scharl Abrahams, John Koopman, Lindiswa Zitsu, Joe Bathini, and Deniva Philander.

The chairperson thanks all members for the discipline showed during the congress. He wishes that the current football season will brings new hope to all participating clubs.

Adam van Rhyner obo PBLFA, Plett

FOOTY ALIVE AND WELL: Plett kicked off the 2018/19 season in style and participating teams were raring to showcase their fitness, with Kurland and Green Valley abuzz as the teams took to the fields - it was clear all teams came prepared as most scores were low and the defence was solid; pictured above are members of the Junior Golden Stars and Kurland Strikers teams

La Luna

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CXPRESS

SPORT & ADVENTURE

21 November 2018

Pioneers continue to fly the Plett cricket flag high LETTENBERG Bay’s Pioneers Cricket Club (PCC) recently ended its season as runners up in the SWD T20 competition, which incorporates clubs from all over the Southern Cape and Klein Karoo.

This is a remarkable feat for a club that is only competing in its second season within the SWD Premier League.

Said PPC’s Mornay Stuurman: “We have certainly punched above our weight,

P

but have yet again showed that when there is belief, nothing is impossible. We might not have taken the troph, but it’s another step in the right direction.

“As a community we are proud of our players for the manner and spirit in which the entire competition was played,” he said, adding that Pioneers is a fairly young club compared to the teams they compete against.

“Our players comprise of

young men from various corners of Plett, mainly New Horizons, Kwano, Bossiesgif and Kranshoek. Some of the players face daily struggles that are the reality of these communities. Being a ‘Pioneer’ is, for some, the best possible privilege.

“Despite all our challenges, our second place in the SWD T20 competition created irreplaceable pride, evidenced in the huge smiles on the faces of the players even weeks later.”

The 50-over Season is now in full swing. Unfortunately, the Premier League team got off to a rocky start by losing to the defending champions.

However, the Pioneers Reserve League team has won two out of three matches played when beating George C two some weeks ago.

On Saturday, they will tackle the Knysna Cavaliers

in Knysna, with the rest of the season’s games including: December 2 - Pioneers B vs Pirates United B (Plett), December 8 - Ramblers vs Pioneers (George), December 9 - Pioneers vs Mossel Bay (Plett), and December 15 - Pioneers vs NMU Madibaz George (Plett).

Pioneers will play all their home games at Pletten-

berg Bay Primary, and extend special thanks to the school for the positive relationship and support of local cricket. Be sure to support them at the Plett Primary fields on December 2, 9 and 15.

Email MStuurman@mar leyps.co.za for additional information, or if you would like to sponsor the Pioneers.

Classy Clarke one of top attractions at Sunera Champion showjumper Jonathan Clarke, pictured at left, has won the last three World Cup qualifiers this year and is currently ranked number 7 in South Africa. Always one of the favourites with the crowd, Clarke is generally regarded as a particularly classy rider. See him in action at Sunera Equestrian Estate in Plett this weekend, and turn to page 4 for additional information.

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