26 June 2019 by CXpress

26 June 2019

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

Photo: Chris Fallows

The getaway…

Majorettes lucky to be alive - p3

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Plettenberg Bay could be the country’s top shark-tourism destination, since the shore-based observation of these awesome animals from Robberg Peninsula is unparalleled and non-invasive - turn to page 2 to find out more. If you’ve chosen CX Country as your winter getaway, well done and welcome! Check inside for a plethora of great outdoor activities and festivals on offer these holidays.

How do we manage the moguls? - p9

Julie scores gold in Jozi - p16

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CXPRESS

NEWS & VIEWS

26 June 2019

Shark tourism can greatly benefit man and beast, if run responsibly Plettenberg Bay shark fundi BRUCE NOBLE reports on how our toothy winter visitors can boost the local economy S I stand on Robberg, at one of the many viewpoints on the eastern side of the reserve, I witness the perpetual symphony that is played out in the crystal-clear shallow waters below - a symphony viewed nowhere else in the world, let alone from shore. Many people from around the globe would pay thousands of dollars to witness this symphony with its potentially deadly consequences: the interaction between seals and the great white shark. It is a game of cat and mouse as the seals chase the shark, the shark chases the seals; sometimes the seals eventually banish the shark to deeper waters, and sometimes the shark scores dinner. Until recently, this unique show was reserved for those brave individuals frequenting Robberg’s hiking trails during winter months, many of them oblivious that what they were witnessing has only ever been documented here, and has the potential to draw more tourists than any other attraction Plett has to offer. When I started documenting these sharks back in 2003, the Robberg parking area never boasted more than a handful of cars during winter, but now the white shark activity has resulted in a significant hike in visitor numbers. Armed with cameras and zoom lenses, they head for the cliffs to experience a completely non-evasive interaction with these magnificent creatures. Our sharks have only recently caught the attention of top international wildlife documentarians and filmmakers. This year alone National Geo-

graphic, Discovery Channel, and BBC crews have been filming in the bay. Fascinated by behaviours exhibited by both sharks and seals, they concur that we are sitting on a goldmine in terms of international tourism, if managed correctly. After years of observation, we know now that a few great white sharks arrive in the bay around April 17 or 18 annually, and usually stay until October. In the early days, it was thought that many sharks arrived in the bay during winter, but over time and through the identification of individuals, it became apparent that only a few of the same individuals returned year after year. Their main attraction seems to be the seal pups that venture into the water at this time, in pristine condition and with a high fat content, although there are also other factors at play. Cape Cod in the US has recently experienced a similar pattern with white sharks returning to their shores; however, this happens in summer during their busiest tourist season. This was concerning to small towns like Chatham, which rely solely on tourism and feared that visitors would venture to areas where sharks were not in attendance. But the opposite occurred as people fell in love with the excitement surrounding these large animals - so much so that tourism marketing now punts the area as a “white shark mecca”, and visitor numbers have soared in the last three to four years, with businesses selling all things shark-related. If managed appropriately, the

virtually-untapped value of these few sharks to Plett’s local economy can be exponential. Fortunately, a research project comprising some of the most renowned South African and international shark scientists has recently been launched. A multifaceted affair involving local stakeholders and research groups, the ultimate beneficiaries will not only be the sharks but also the general public. Albeit in its infancy, the project has already revealed some alarming information: “our” sharks face a myriad of lifethreatening obstacles when making their way back to Plett each year and, upon arrival, the threats continue. What should be a safe haven in the bay for the winter is more akin to a minefield for these animals. Scientists all agree that shark longlining poses the greatest threat, not only to small sharks but also to great whites, which are killed through direct catch as well as entanglement. These long-liners operate in the bay frequently, targeting species such as the smooth hound shark. This heavily overfished species is sold to Australia for fish and chips, but is of prime importance in the diet of white sharks, and to the ecosystem as a whole. Other major threats include recreational shore-based shark fishing, especially in the Robberg area where people specifically and illegally target white sharks - a protected species purely to satisfy their egos. White sharks can die even if released after being landed, due to the tremendous stress such capture entails. And if managing to break free, they often trail large

amounts of line behind them. When becoming entangled around the shark or other obstacles, it leads to significant injury and sometimes death. These unscrupulous “fishermen” not only tarnish the reputation of law-abiding anglers but are a real threat to the local economy. In the past few weeks, every shark being documented is trailing lines and leaders from these illegal practices… Our shore-based researchers have also noted that some recreational and whale-watching vessels follow the sharks at a particularly close distance to get a better view. This not only interferes with natural hunting behaviour, which is highly sensitive to boating activity and often leads to the sharks leaving the area for deeper waters, but as sharks regularly swim on the surface, which has resulted in boat strikes. All skippers are urged to keep a proper distance and reduce speed in the area close to Robberg Peninsula. Together as a community, we should harness the benefits and opportunities these magnificent creatures bring and provide the protection they deserve, so making it sustainable for all. Said Californian Jeff Kurr, Discovery Channel’s legendary natural history filmmaker with over 30 international shark-related documentaries under his belt: “You guys are sitting on an attraction that people from around the globe will come visit once the various documentaries air. “I want to come back next year and bring more friends and the year after those friends will want to bring their friends. But this is only going to happen if you look after those sharks, man!” The Discovery documentary mostly filmed in Plettenberg Bay will feature during the new season of Shark Week from July 28 onwards.

ve you heard the one about th who went to a tiny country far

NEWS & VIEWS

26 June 2019

CXPRESS

Tourists cause near-fatal bus crash on Plett N2 More than 60 people, mostly children, are lucky to be alive after a bus accident on the N2 near Plett on Monday - GARDEN ROUTE MEDIA reports MAJORETTE MIRACLE: The bus transporting Grabouw children and their guardians finally came to a standstill off the embankment at Thyme and Again on the Plett N2 after crashing into the stationary vehicle of an allegedly indecisive American couple

Dutch Reformed Church while they awaited a bus dispatched from Cape Town to continue their journey. Majorettes in East London and fighting fit Marius Venter told CXPRESS on Tuesday morning that the youngsters admitted to hospital in Knysna had all been discharged by early evening on Monday and that their replacement transport had collected the

group just before 3am. “By nine they had already registered for their competition, everyone in good shape in spite of their roadaccident ordeal,” he said. He reiterated how incredible it was that no lives were lost during the crash, saying that the three girls who were sitting at the top level in front of the bus had decided to walk to the back when they crossed Keur-

- Photo: Supplied

EN children - on their way from Cape Town to East London to participate in a national drum majorette competition - and the driver of the bus they were travelling in were hospitalised following an accident that occurred in front of Thyme and Again on June 24. According to Marius Venter of Plett Watch, the youngsters from St Michaels Primary School in Grabouw were travelling in a bus with several teachers and two bus drivers when they reached Plett. Venter said two American

tourists were travelling along the same stretch of highway ahead of the bus when they suddenly became unsure where to turn off and subsequently came to a complete standstill in the road at Thyme and Again farmstall. The bus driver could not stop the bus in time and hit the tourists’ vehicle on the left-hand side. The vehicle then hit a bakkie and the bus veered off the embankment at Thyme and Again. Venter said the bus hit several trees along the way before finally coming to a standstill. “If you look at

the damaged caused to the bus, it is a miracle that everyone survived,” he said. He also commended the bus driver’s ability behind the wheel. Venter said 10 children were transported to Knysna Hospital for minor injuries and observation, while the bus driver was admitted to Plett Mediclinic for a suspected broken leg and lacerations to his hands. He concluded that the community banded together to assist the remainder of the learners with food and a place to sleep at the Plett

GARDEN ROUTE

Wherever you go, #safety follows

Sedgefield hammer murderer awaits spot at Valkenberg Talia Day

RIDAY June 21 saw the fifth court appearance for Sean Kelly, who is accused of murdering Noreen Hampson on February 2 on the pavement outside her home in Sedgefield. Kelly admitted to killing Hampson, but said that it was “not premeditated”. He was denied bail and has been remanded in custody since the murder. The clerk of the court told CXPRESS on Friday morning that Kelly’s case had been moved to July 5 due to “no beds being avail-

able at Valkenberg”, and that his case had been taken off the roster for the day. But, due to a mix-up with paperwork, Kelly was brought to the court holding cells, and was made to appear before magistrate Leonore Swartz, after the court had reconvened from lunch. Prosecutor Zuki Mqulu requested another postponement. Kelly, who is still handling his own defence, asked for permission to speak. He said the confusion was due to the fact that he was referred by a George psy-

chiatrist to Valkenberg for evaluation, but that there had been no space available. Valkenberg has a history of delaying court cases; detainees have been made to wait up to three months for a space, the most prominent case being that of Shrien Dewani, whose case was held up for months awaiting his evaluation. There are 360 beds at Valkenberg Psychiatric Hospital. Hopefully one will be available for Kelly so that the trial can finally get under way on July 5.

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booms River, i.e. moments before impact. “Branches had crashed through the top front windows and impaled the seats where the girls were sitting seconds before, so the fact that the driver’s was the worst of all injuries really is a miracle.” The bus driver was expected to be transferred from Plett to Mossel Bay on Tuesday.

CXPRESS

NEWS & VIEWS

26 June 2019

Most recent Qolweni march shows residentsâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; continued dismay in Bitou housing processes

WE COME IN PEACE: After a rocky start, residents marched quite sedately down Main Street and to Bitou Municipalityâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s headquarters to hand over a memorandum of grievances - Photos: Supplied

LETTENBERG Bay was again plagued by protest action last week when Qolweni residents marched through the streets of the coastal holiday town to voice their concern over housing, among other issues. Traffic on the N2 in Plett was diverted last week Tuesday when disgruntled Qolweni residents allegedly pelted passing vehicles with stones before an approved march was set to start. Motorists were urged to use Airport Road to avoid the situation while public order police and local law enforcement attempted to diffuse it. The march, however, started peacefully at 10am in Qolweni and saw residents make their way to the main municipal building in Sewell Street. After handing over their grievances, the crowd dispersed. Bitou municipal spokesman Manfred van Rooyen said some of the issues raised

included the slow pace of a Qolweni housing project, as well as the high unemployment rate experienced by residents in the area. They also complained that there were housing beneficiaries that rent out their government homes and remain living in informal structures. Another issue is people who live in formal homes while renting out their informal structures. Residents further bemoaned the lack of sport development in the area as well as tenders allegedly being awarded to the same companies year after year. This came in the wake of protest action in February when several Qolweni residents staged a protest to voice their dismay around Bitou Municipalityâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s plan of action in addressing housing problems in the area. Plettenberg Bay had been plagued by riots, mostly over housing, last year by various communities -

some of which brought the town to a near standstill when residents gathered on the N2 blocking the road for traffic. The protests temporarily came to an end after mayor Peter Lobese addressed communities and committed to various steps to attend to their concerns. One of these was to invite the relevant national and provincial departments to Plett to resolve their issues. A plan has since been put in place to address the housing shortage, but after a housing committee meeting in February residents voiced their unhappiness with the process so far. This spilled over into another wave of protesting later the same day which included the burning of tyres and stoning of passing vehicles on the N2 near the Plett footbridge. The crowds were however dispersed after authorities intervened. - Garden Route Media

NEWS & VIEWS

26 June 2019

CXPRESS

Frustration looms at Garden Route District Municipality BOB HOPKIN reports on the bureaucratic nightmare stumping economic development in the region HANKS to efforts by our district municipality, and investment promotion conferences with potential foreign financiers, there has been anticipation that substantial new industrial developments for the region were on the horizon. However a sense of frustration boiled over at a recent Good Governance Summit, when mayor Memory Booysen claimed bureaucratic paralysis and fear of new anti-corruption procedures might well scupper planned R1 to R2-billion local industries with partners from China, the USA, Germany, and Indonesia. The concern was raised in the context of a blow-back from institutionalised corruption in national and local government throughout the country.

“We have gone to extraordinary efforts to attract overseas companies to set up business units on the Garden Route against very stiff competition from other provinces, other countries in Africa, and other regions in the world. “Now, when we are on the brink of success, entrenched bureaucracy in central government, fear of infringing, and recently introduced anti-corruption procedures look set to kill off our initiatives if we are not careful,” said Booysen. He added that modern interna-

I’M NOT HAPPY: Mayor Memory Booysen made no secret of his frustration at the lack of progress

tional business operated in short timeframes and needed decisive and timely commitments from their geographic partners. “Making excuses about needing central government approvals is of no interest to them. If they run out of patience, they will simply go elsewhere. I may not be a conspiracy theorist, but perhaps the fact that we are a DA-run council trying to better the lives of our constituents, within an ANC national government, may not be a coincidence,” he said. The mayor said there was a tempta-

tion to ignore standard procedures and go it alone to get the projects done and that, just because other municipalities had abused procedures for their own financial benefit, there was no need to “tar our region with the same brush”. “I feel inclined to push ahead in spite of these constraints, and risk prosecution and jail,” he added somewhat tongue in cheek, but partially seriously. Let’s hope that the Western Cape Government will step in and help rescue victory from the jaws of defeat.

CXPRESS

NEWS & VIEWS

26 June 2019

The Durban July… right here in Plett! HILE there is no shortage of events and entertainment in our small town these holidays, we can all look forward to something very special on Saturday July 6. The Durban July is coming to Plett, with all the glamour and excitement usually associated with South Africa’s most famous horse race. On this occasion, couples will have the opportunity to dress up to the nines and stand a chance to win the coveted Best Dressed prize. No outfit will be complete without a fabulous hat preferably as colourful and extravagant as possible. ‘Over the Top’ is the catchphrase for the day... Sky Villa is the perfect venue to host this excep-

tional event and guests will be able to enjoy spectacular views while enjoying canapes on the terrace. A delicious buffet lunch will be served and there will be wine, beer and gin tastings, whisky cocktails... and a Red Bull Station. The most exciting feature of the day will be the live streaming of the actual Durban July and some lively betting is expected. A list of horses will be available on the day. Other special attractions include a photo booth and live music, in addition to lucky draws throughout the afternoon for vouchers and hampers worth thousands of Rands. The first prize is two nights for two people in the Presidential Suite at Sky Villa valued at

ADVERTORIAL

Spotlight on Plett Optical E at Plett Optical believe it is a great privilege to work and live in beautiful Plettenberg Bay, and working with eyes is our passion, since the eye is a window into the body’s general health. We take a holistic approach to eye, vision and systemic health, and after extensive research have developed a great interest in nutrition and diet, focussing in particular on the micronutrients required to maintain optimum eye health. Our aim is to provide clients with the best optical solution to suit their personal vision needs, taking into account prescription, lifestyle and budget. We proudly state that we have the widest range of quality-branded spectacle frames in this area, as well as a world-class sunglass boutique - many of which are scriptable with your unique prescription - in standard or polarised lenses. As Hoya lens specialists, we have the most advanced in-house lens-ordering system available, which means

that it is possible for us to order the thinnest, lightest and most appropriate bestvision lenses for our clients. Since we have our own computerised lens-fitting laboratory, we can do most single-vision glasses as a same day service - sometimes even while you enjoy a cup of coffee! It is our desire to offer affordable eyewear to all

R18,000. It includes a complimentary bottle of wine and breakfast. This hugely enjoyable and fun day is sure to become Plett’s event of the year, so don’t miss it. Book through Sky Villa on 087 550 2967 or email info@skyvilla. co.za and see the advert on this page or call Rita Hardaker on 082 560 2606 for additional information. • The July at Sky is a fund raiser for the Differentlyabled Awareness Campaign - a registered NPO. Rita Hardaker has been the driving force behind this campaign, and has been working tirelessly to improve conditions for differentlyabled people in Plett and beyond. Please help her to expand her important work by supporting this campaign.

those who require it, despite budget constraints or the absence of medical aid cover. With that in mind, please pop into our sister outlet, Budget Optix, right next door to Plett Optical. • Jan and Conrad look forward to helping you find the best solution to your visual needs. Visit them at Shop 3, Marine Building, Main Street Plett, call 044 533 2191 or email info@ plettoptical.co.za for additional information.

EYE HEALTH EXPERTS: Jan le Roux and Conrad van Tonder, right, have your visual needs at heart

NEWS & VIEWS

26 June 2019

CXPRESS

Plett Arts Fest champion gains global accolades Words & photo: Leigh Dunn

LETT Arts Association appointed Tracey Mae as chairperson in October last year, and when it was announced that the 2019 Plett Arts Festival risked cancellation due to lack of sponsorship, Tracey sprang into action. She posted an invitation on local social media platform Plett in Stereo for all interested parties to attend a meeting at The Plettenberg hotel to pull together this yearâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s event in less than two months, with no funding and purely as a community effort. Tracey approached 22 local venues single-handedly and got main sponsors of this yearâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s festival on board. These include

ART IN MOTION: Tracey Mae with some of her latest art works now hanging at The Plettenberg

Plett Arts Association, Milkwood Framing, The Plettenberg, A&T Design Emporium, Ocean Basket Plett, Arteriors, Old Nick Village, Sky Villa, Mellvilleâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Corner, Deliaâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s,

Whaling Station B&B, Global Village, Ninteen89, and The Junction. Apart from her organisational prowess, Tracey has recently received global accolades for her art.

In December, she won an international award of excellence in the 7th International Seascape art competition run by LightSpaceTime Gallery in Jupiter, Florida, USA, for her work Ocean in Motion. Among 561 entries from 22 countries and 31 states, this prolific Plett artist came out on top. This was also the case in May, when she scored a special merit award in the 9th International Animals art competition for her work Majestic. One of 735 entries from 31 countries, Tracey won yet again. Readers are invited to view the wide variety of works exhibited during the remainder of the Plett Arts Festival. Visit www. plett-tourism.co.za for the full programme.

No out-of-town organisers required for Oyster Fest Gigi Lewis

ANY folks in recent years have complained that the Oyster Festival, which started in 1983 as the Knysna Winter Festival, had changed from a quaint local event to attract visitors during quiet winter months, to an aggressive take-over by a plethora of out-of-town promotional enterprises. This year, it appears, ownership of the festival has been returned to the community, with local enterprise Visit Knysna being tasked with event promotion on behalf of the municipality. The feel-good factor was all apparent at the of-

CHEERS! Knysna municipal manager Dr Sitembele Vatala, Planning and Economic Development director Marlene Boyce, and mayor Mark Willemse toast the 36th Knysna Oyster Festival during its launch last week - Photo supplied

ficial opening of the 36th Knysna Oyster Festival at White Washed & Redbridge on June 20. During his speech, mayor Mark Willemse explained: â&#x20AC;&#x153;As weâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;re not restricted by the stipulations imposed by a naming sponsor, the locals have taken back which is,

essentially, their festival.â&#x20AC;? In introducing the mayor, Knysna Municipalityâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Planning and Economic Development director, Marlene Boyce, reminisced on early Oyster Festivals and nostalgically recalled how members of the community approached lo-

cal businesses to donate food, drink, and provisions necessary for the event to succeed. Willemse added: â&#x20AC;&#x153;Knysna Municipality has been lending assistance wherever possible, but local businesses have come on board in terms of sponsorship and our residents have employed their considerable initiative and expertise to present the world-class items on this yearâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s programme. â&#x20AC;&#x153;Thank you to all the organisers, sponsors and associated organisations for ensuring that the event continues. I know that your efforts can only lead to the success of the Knysna Oyster Festival.â&#x20AC;?

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CXPRESS

BUSINESS

26 June 2019

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

Risk? What risk?! INANCIAL commentators have developed a new language for when equity markets move. When the equity market is up it is said that “risk” is on, and when it is down, “risk” is said to be off. This has had the effect of calling equities “risk assets” and has caused many retirees to avoid investing in equities. No retiree wants to place his retirement savings into risky assets, but how one defines “risk” is very important. If one retires at, say, 65, then in today’s world you can easily live for another 20 years. During this retirement period your greatest need is to establish a sustainable income that will grow over time. Your income should at least offer some protection against inflation. In fact, for a retiree the greatest RISK is inflation! Placing investments into money market or income-type funds may allow you to sleep at night. This offers only shortterm peace of mind but in the long term, you are exposing your savings to the greater risk. With an inflation rate of 5% you are effectively devaluing your funds by 5% every year. Interest rates obviously fluctuate, so when they drop your income will also drop. We must also remember that some very attractive rates come with real credit risk. I recently saw a rate of over 9% being offered; this would need some serious investigating to see the source of this almost unrealistic risk. Should you risk all of your capital for an extra 2% in income? There are only two investment types that can offer a sustainable and growing income. These are equities and prop-

erty stocks (REITS). Sure, equity markets go up and down, but the dividends of sound and mature companies nearly always grow. I don’t think that Standard Bank has ever missed a dividend! Blue-chip property stocks will always offer an attractive yield. Their prices will fluctuate but the quality REITS will pay out a rising income. So when you read that the markets were “risk-off ”, then read that equities were lower. It has nothing to do with risk in the true sense of the word. The South African economy and the JSE have both ground lower over the last four to five years. Investors have become disillusioned with equities, and have fled to fixed-interest investments. But other retirees have weathered this period and still received a growing income based on their dividends, as well as income from their quality REITS. The JSE currently offers particularly attractive dividend yields. You can buy an income stream of over 5% from sound, mature companies; this is after tax, and will grow over time. There are quality REITS in the market offering 9% with some really good properties in their portfolios. So think carefully: if you can live with the Trump tweets, Brexit, and South African politics, then you should be looking at those “risk” assets now. • Malcolm has been in the investment industry for nearly 50 years. He has written this column in CXPRESS for the last 20 years and is a specialist in managing retired wealth. See the advert on this page for contact details.

BUSINESS

26 June 2019

CXPRESS

Do we have the manpower and the will to execute Mboweni’s cost-containment decree? Reining in municipal moguls’ spending sprees and audacious audits could be a task too far for President Cyril Ramaphosa’s soldiers to take on, when considering the numbers, muses STUART MURRAY HE recent salvo fired at municipal extravagance came from Finance minister Tito Mboweni, who has laid down “cost containment” measures aimed at disciplining all municipal officials and political office-bearers. The new regulations affect entertainment, catering, sponsorship, events, travel, appointments, and credit cards. It is a long list: end-of-year parties, social events, “teambuilding” jollies… More seriously, municipal resources may not be used to fund elections or campaign activities - including providing food, clothing, printing and brochures. No “qualified” person may spend more than R2,000 a year on entertainment. Specifically, Mboweni has introduced rules on the appointment of consultants and on fees. The cost of motor vehicles for political office-bearers such as mayors, for example, is limited to R700,000. Municipalities can no longer set their own rules

in terms of travel; domestic travel (of less than five hours) is now limited to economy class and overseas travel must be pre- approved. Officials and office-bearers must use the municipal fleet rather than hire vehicles - which are now limited to Class B if their use is deemed necessary. There’s more. Municipal managers must ensure (or be held responsible) that no official or public representative is issued with a credit card linked to municipal accounts. In a nutshell, the regulations highlight the extent to which officials have lived the high life at the expense of the treasury and ratepayers. Remuneration package limits for municipal managers were gazetted by the Department of Cooperative Governance last year, taking effect from July 1. The framework states upper limits of total remuneration packages payable. The rules allocate points to municipalities categorised

on a scale of 1-10, which determines pay. The upper limits for Minimum, Medium, and Maximum are: • 10 points: R2,568,755 R3,251,589 - R3,934,423 • 9 points: R2,204,466 R2,755,584 - R3,306,702 • 8 points: R1,903,222 R2,335,240 - R2,767,260 • 7 points: R1,646,643 R1,995,931 - R2,345,220 • 6 points: R1,424,447 R1,705,924 - R1,987,402 • 5 points: R1,242,678 R1,470,625 - R1,698,573 And so on... In Bitou Municipality, we have six senior managers: the Municipal Manager, Chief Financial Officer, and four heads of department. In the 2018/19 financial year their joint remuneration totalled just short of R18.5-million, quite a hunk of which was inflated by heavy increases in basic salaries and perks. These increases, according to a report by Plettenberg Bay Ratepayers and Residents Association, totalled an astonishing 223%, compared with 32% in the previous financial year (not

BUCO Plettenberg Bay

to be sneered at, either). On the other side of the employee scale, municipal workers’ annual increase set by central government - amounted to 7%. The remuneration of the top six is determined by the annual budget, drawn up by the executive mayor for approval by the council. A breakdown of the joint remuneration of the ‘Senior Six’ (as per the Ratepayers report) came to: • Basic salaries: R13,336,000 • Pension: R2,231,000 • Medical aid: R686,000 • Motor vehicle allowance: R3,277,000 • Cellphone allowance: R570,000 • Housing allowance: R111,000 • Other benefits (?): R859,000 • Payment in lieu of leave: R536,000 • Post retirement benefits: R1,425,000 • Total: R18,336,000 The effect of the increases approved by Bitou Council includes the following, as reported by the Ratepayers

Association: • Housing allowance: Up 854% from R13,000 to R111,000 • Payment in lieu of leave: Up from zero to R536,000 • Cellphone allowance: Up by 153% from R372,00 to R570,000 • Motor vehicle allowance: Up by 266% from R1.23m to R3.27m. Bitou, let’s face it, is but a minnow in the great scheme of municipal governance. There are 278 municipalities in South Africa, made up of eight metropolitan, 44 district, and 226 local. Gauteng is divided into three metros: Ekurhuleni, Johannesburg, and Tshwane. Other metros are East London (Buffalo City), Cape Town, Durban, Bloemfontein (Mangaung), and Nelson Mandela Bay (including Port Elizabeth). Wasteful and irregular spending is endemic. In the Western Cape alone last year it amounted to R44-million. The 2017/18 Bitou Annual Report

showed irregular expenditure amounting to R16.7million. The challenge facing central government is how to impose the proposed clampdown on wasteful spending. Has it the manpower? Has it the will? Auditor-General Kimi Makwetu has said time and again that municipalities are difficult to discipline. He admits that in some provinces police have to accompany audit staff on assignment; some have been shot at, others held hostage. Perhaps the authorities should look at a risk and reward approach, basing remuneration on accomplishment. It is a concept well used in business and what else is running a country all about? • Stuart Murray (stuart murray758@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.

Corner N2 & Rietvlei Road, Plettenberg Bay | Tel: 044 501 3800

CXPRESS

26 June 2019

HOLIDAY ACTIVITIES

In collaboration with Plett Food Film we bring you...

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HOLIDAY ACTIVITIES

26 June 2019

CXPRESS

INTERVAL

26 June 2019

Gholf is goed vir die gesondheid IE 65-jarige gholfspeler gaan vir sy jaarlikse mediese ondersoek. Die dokter is verstom: “Wat doen jy om so topfiks te wees?” “Ek speel gholf. Ek staan voor sonop op, speel 18 putjies en dan drink ek twee glase wyn.” “Dis interessant. Hoe oud was jou pa toe hy oorlede is?” “Wie sê my pa is dood?” Die dokter is weereens verstom: “Jy is 65 en jou pa leef nog! Hoe oud is hy?” “Hy is 87. Hy het vanoggend nog saam met my gholf gespeel. Daarna het hy op ‘n nudiste strand gaan stap en twee

glase wyn gedrink” “Wel,” sê die dokter, “en hoe oud was jou oupa toe hy dood is?” “Wie sê my oupa is dood?” “Wat! En hoe oud is jou oupa dan?” “Hy is 108.” “Hy het seker ook vanoggend saam met julle gholf gespeel?” “Nee, hy kon nie vanoggend saamkom nie; hy trou vandag.” Die dokter is teen hierdie tyd op die punt om van sy kop af te raak. “Trou? Hoekom wil iemand wat 108 is, trou?” “Wie sê hy wou trou? Hy moes!”

John’s elephant memory Y friend, John, went on safari in Africa when he came across an elephant. It was lying on the ground in distress. John investigated and found a thorn in its foot. He removed it, and the elephant happily trotted away. Twenty years later, we were in London on busi-

ness and were watching a circus procession pass by, when along came an elephant. It stopped, got level with John, looked straight at him, reached out with its trunk, and lifted him into the air and smashed him into the ground. Turns out it was a different elephant...

My third wish... ENIE: “I’m ready for your third wish. Me: “Third? What about the first two?” Genie: “Well, this is a little unusual, but after your first wish you screamed like a madman and said: ‘I wish I’d never made that wish!’

“So that counted as your second wish, and I erased your memory of both of them. Me: “Ok then. I wish I really understood how women think. Genie: “Granted. By the way, that was your first wish, too.”

Don’t multi-task Russian arrives at a friend’s house with a bottle of vodka. The friend silently leads him into the dining room where they both sit at the table with the bottle. Not a word is spoken. The friend goes off and returns with two vodka glasses. The Russian fills

the glasses with the vodka, and they begin to drink. Not a word is spoken. After much silence and a half-empty bottle, the Russian ventures a comment: “Good vodka, agree?” At this, his friend slams down his glass and replies: “Did you come here to talk or to drink?”

Saying it my way American actor, comedian, and writer ZACH GALIFIANAKIS

• I failed kindergarten because I couldn’t spell my last name. • My girlfriend looks a little like Charlize Theron… and a lot like Patrick Ewing. • I wonder if in 2050 there will be a movie called ‘Dude, Where’s My Spaceship?’

• I would start a revolution, but I just bought a hammock. • The word ‘abbreviation’ sure is long for what it means. • I sure have a lot of growing up to do. I realised that the other day while playing inside my fort.

Downward progression HINGS that are difficult to say when you’ve had too much to drink: • Innovative • Preliminary • Proliferation •Cinnamon Things that are very difficult to say when you’ve had too much to drink: • Specificity • British Constitution

• Passive-aggressive disorder Things that are downright impossible to say when you’ve had too much to drink: • Nope, no more beer for me. • Good evening, officer. Isn’t it lovely out tonight? • Oh, I couldn’t. No one wants to hear me sing.

SOCIAL SCENE

26 June 2019

FILM ‘R’ US! The first iKasi Media graduation ceremony, held in George on Saturday, was a great success with 22 learners receiving their certificates for the three-month course ‘Introduction to Film and TV’. The first of its kind on the Garden Route, it’s an accredited course that links unemployed youth to opportunities in the film industry. Municipal representatives as well as learners from across the district were in attendance. Nambitia Kasi-Ndzuzo of the MICT (Media, Information and Communication Technologies) SETA and Carlyn Sassman of the National Youth Development Agency joined the ceremony to hand out certificates, while Garden Route Film Office chair Phillip de Vries and family members of the learners pulled in for additional support. Says iKasi director Lika Berning: “Entrepreneurship development forms a part of the hands-on, industry-linked skills programme. The graduates were encouraged by the opportunities in the 4th Industrial Revolution - empowered to use their devices to create authentic content and equipped to take up jobs in the growing media industry. And audience response to the four short films made by the students was simply amazing!” Pictured from left are MC and one of the iKasi Media directors Khanya Sosibo, course moderator Natalie Delport, training director Lamise Inglis, with Nambitia and Lika at right.

LIFETIME OF CARE RECORDED: At the launch of the paperback edition of ‘For the People’ by Anelia Schutte at Knysna Yacht Club on June 20, the author signed copies of the book. She is pictured here with, from left, Jo-Ann Bekker, her mother Owéna Schutte, Johnny Oliphant, Thandi de Bruin and Victoria Sigcu, all of Knysna. The book describes the devoted work of Anelia’s mother in providing welfare and social care to the previously disadvantaged communities of Knysna and environs, over many decades. - Timothy Twidle

CXPRESS

People, places & events

La Luna

10 DAYS LEFT FOR TOAST OF TSITSIKAMMA ART: Ten Tsitsikamma artists are participating in the ‘Inspired!’ exhibition at Bitou Art Gallery in Storms River Village until Saturday July 6. Pictured at last week’s opening event are, from left at back, Johan Brink, Elzette Bester, Nathalie Strassburg, Susan Kemp, Marcel Terblanche and Estelle Hester, with Elmarie Swanepoel in front. Absent from this pic are exhibiting artists Henk and Marlene Liebenberg, and Nic Hester, but you can experience their art at this inspirational gallery in the heart of the Tsitsikamma for the next 10 days… don’t miss out!

WINNING THE WEDGE: Last weekend, Plett’s famous Wedge was the scene of many a wipe-out but great boarding entertainment, too, as conditions hovered twixt mild and wild for the Wedge Shootout competition hosted annually by Roger Trebilcock and his Surfing Life crew. Pictured above are the overall winning Plett NSRI team with Roger at back. Runners up were the Peanut Butter Boys with Wedgie Boys in third place. The junior bodyboarding section was won by Kade Howorth, while Sampi Kamfer took the open title. Roger thanks his fellow sponsors Solace and Mungo for adding to the array of excellent Surfing Life prizes dished out on Sunday.

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CXPRESS

The only pharmacy in Main Street

26 June 2019

CLASSIFIEDS

ON THE SOAPBOX

26 June 2019

Letters to the Editor

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

Bitou responds to Plett Tourism enquiry It has to be stated for the record that Bitou Municipality received the CXPRESS media enquiry via email on Monday June 17 - a public holiday - at 3:07pm, so the enquiry was only dealt with on June 18. Given the publication deadline, it is rather unfortunate that despite our undertakings that a substantive response would be provided, the article [read it on page 3 of the June 19 edition at www. cxpress.co.za] was carried without our response. In our view it would have been more beneficial to the community if the publication of the article was delayed to the next edition. Herewith our formal response: Plett Tourism is not an agency of the municipality. It is an independent entity with its own constitution that has been charged with executing a mandate of developmental tourism for a period of one year on behalf of the municipality.

The current Memorandum of Agreement with Plett Tourism ends on June 30. However, the municipality has included in its budget an extended role for Plett Tourism for 2019/20. Our total contribution towards the tourism industry for the 2019/20 financial year which includes township tourism development, destination marketing and branding - totals R4,750,000. The municipality has set aside R2-million for Plett Tourism based on its own financial reporting during the past financial year. This decision was based on the relevant and applicable National Treasury Circulars, the most recent being a circular announcing austerity and cost containment measures to curtail the use of consultants and also the performance with regards to the existing Memorandum of Agreement.

Is it time for a no-confidence show starring Bitou councillors? I refer to the article ‘From talk of the Garden Route to outright embarrassment: the Plett Tourism story’ featured in last week’s edition [turn to page 3 of the June 19 issue at www.cxpress.co.za]. To read of such mismanagement, bungling and apparent subjective action by the municipality, which has been the reason for the resignation of the CEO of Plett Tourism, Peter Wallington, is not only tragic but mindboggling, to say the least. From all accounts he is a very competent fellow and has performed admirably with the limited finance supplied to Plett Tourism. Thank you, Peter, for all your input. Surely, anyone with reasonable intelligence (municipal officials included, we hope) has to

recognise that the very heartbeat of Plettenberg Bay’s economy is tourism. For the municipality to starve Plett Tourism of funds, or to deviate designated funds elsewhere, is beyond belief. Some months ago, the wild and reckless spending of ratepayers’ money by town officials was reported in CXPRESS. If such regardless spending is coupled with the present Plett Tourism debacle, is it not time for local residents to call for a no-confidence debate in regard to members of the current town council? It would appear that an urgent election is called for to elect objective and proficient councillors, before the present incumbents can do any more damage to Plett. Kevin Meineke, Plett

To provide additional clarity: • The Memorandum of Agreement with Plett Tourism does not allow for salaries paid to Plett Tourism officials. The financial statements of Plett Tourism as at May 31 indicate that more than 35% of its allocation is spent on salaries, which represents a major defect in terms of the applicable provisions of the Memorandum of Agreement and municipal legislation. • Besides salaries paid, an additional amount of R767,490 is paid to consultants for project support, web design, and social media consulting fees. This amounts to more than 14% of the budget. • This boils down to Bitou Municipality employing Plett Tourism to execute a certain function, for which they appoint other service providers to execute. This is a duplication of costs. • Over and above the aforementioned, only 8% of the budget is spent on township tourism development. • The municipality has under no circumstances taken over (“captured”) any of the projects that Plett Tourism has been tasked to perform. On the contrary, we have been denied information regarding research on the Robberg Cultural Bridge project as well as tourism packages that has been developed by funds contributed by the municipality. Plett Tourism has denied the municipality the

intellectual property developed through financing this function over a period of six years. • The municipality has contributed approximately R25-million over six years to Plett Tourism and continues to support the tourism industry. • Notwithstanding the municipal contribution, which is 97.6% of Plett Tourism’s total budget, it is broadly viewed through social media and newspaper clips that the relationship between Plett Tourism and Bitou Municipality is not conducive to investor and business confidence in the town. This has been communicated to Plett Tourism at many occasions, however the status quo remains. Based on the above facts, it would be disingenuous for Bitou to invest so substantially in Plett Tourism to perform functions on behalf of the municipality and then wilfully and deliberately seeking to “capture” or prevent Plett Tourism from performing on the Memorandum of Agreement. We hope that this substantive response will provide the information for the taxpayers and residents of Bitou, to understand the extent of contributions and support to Plett Tourism over these past few years. Bitou also hopes it had illustrated that the alleged mala fide or ill feelings towards Plett Tourism has no factual basis. Manfred van Rooyen obo Bitou Municipality, Plett

An ode to development With all this colonial negativity being spoken, I thought something positive might, well, be positive. The wheel brought about tremendous development in every aspect of life. It certainly made life easier. Numbers and letters benefit-

ted development. Currency replaced barter, which in turn enabled employment. Agriculture ensured food security, as did the establishment of dams, etc. Sewage controlled disease. So, you see? It wasn’t all bad… Silver Lining, Plett

CXPRESS

SPORT & ADVENTURE

26 June 2019

Uber-able bowler Julie Deferville scores gold at Joburg nationals LETT resident Julie Deferville on Sunday returned from this yearâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s eight-day South Africa Disability National Bowls Championships played in Johannesburg. Representing Leisure Isle Bowling Club, Julie was accompanied by fellow Eden District participants Ina la Roux, Crystal Barlow and Chris Patton. Players in the Ladies section came from all over South Africa, many of them previous gold, silver and bronze medallists and Springboks who have taken part in international tournaments as well as Champions of Champions (SA ablebodied bowling) events. But our local lass claimed victory when in the Ladies Pairs event, Julie as skip with partner Vicky van der Merwe of Newcastle Bowling Club in KZN as lead

ECSTATIC OVER GOLDS: Vicky, left, and Julie, who is proudly sporting her Differently-abled Awareness Campaign shirt; at right, the four Eden Bowls representatives in last weekâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s SA Disability National Championships were, standing from left, George Bowling Clubâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Ina la Roux and Crystal Barlow, with Plett local Julie Deferville representing Leisure Isle Bowling Club at right, and Springbok bowler Chris Patton from Knysna seated in front

won the gold medal. How amazing is that?! â&#x20AC;&#x153;Vicky and I, as two relatively inexperienced bowlers, feel incredibly proud of this achievement in defeating stiff opposition,â&#x20AC;? said a beaming Julie to CXPRESS. Another impressive feat from the Eden contingent is the fact that Crystal, representing George Bowling Club, won bronze in the Ladies Singles event. Julie thanked Rita Hardaker of Plettâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Differently-abled Awareness Campaign for sponsorship of her shirts, â&#x20AC;&#x153;as well as her dedicated and caring support and her faith in meâ&#x20AC;?. She added: â&#x20AC;&#x153;Throughout the tournament, I have shared her work for the differently-abled with anyone who asked me about the name on the back of my shirt. I encourage all Plett

locals to donate to this worthy cause that aims to make our beautiful town more user-friendly for those with physical challenges. â&#x20AC;&#x153;We never know what calamity tomorrow might bring and the improvements initiated by Rita might one day be helpful to any presently able-bodied person. I also thank my friends in Plettenberg Bay who have stood by my side recently and urged me on to do my best. I am extremely lucky and so grateful for all the support.â&#x20AC;? â&#x20AC;˘ Meet Julie and Rita and friends at the glamorous July at Sky event on Saturday July 6 at Sky Villa boutique hotel. Turn to page 6 to find out out more about this well-planned and unique shindig with many great prizes, lucky draws, and fun betting on the countryâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s finest race horses.

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