27 June 2018 by CXpress

27 June 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

Step right up It’s mere days past the winter solstice but here in CX Country, mild weather makes it impossible to resist participating in the plethora of outdoor activities on offer as part of our holiday festivities now in full swing. And then there’s the art and culture and food dates to die for, all part of the brilliant line-up of Knysna Oyster and Plett ARTS Festival events - turn to page 10 and 11 for details. Happy holidays!

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NEWS & VIEWS

27 June 2018

Plett ARTS Festival: June 25 to July 9

Home-grown fashion guru Nada J to feature at Saturday’s Plett 24 Hour Reunion HE Plett 24 Hour Reunion is celebrating its third anniversary at this year’s Plett ARTS Festival. Focusing on local designers, the latest trends, and those who set out to capture couture magic digitally, the 24 Hour Reunion is a youthful event attracting fashion aficionados as well as budding photographers and videographers. This year’s showcase on Saturday June 30 features local celebrity fashion designer Nada J, and the event takes place at Piesang Valley Community Hall from 6pm until late. Presale tickets cost R80 per person or R100 per head when bought at the door. Noloyiso ‘Nada’ Jujwana of Nada J Creations hails from KwaNokuthula in Plettenberg Bay. Inspired by life, people around her, and the community she grew up in, this Plett native has a diploma in fashion design from Damelin College. She has been plying her trade for roughly three years now, at times jiggling work and designing at the same time - a clear demonstration of the resilience and determination that this 26-year-old displays in pursuing her goals. Noloyiso caters for all kinds

of people and a wide range of occasions. She has created everything from matric ball gowns to casual lifestyle wear, while also manufacturing accessories like earrings and more. Her secret is colour - she’s just crazy about colours - and her designs, she says, are not influenced by one particular style but rather by a multitude of hues, playing them out to produce many a thing of beauty. Nada J Creations is an important milestone for development of the arts in Kwano and beyond. An inspiration to other young and upcoming designers, she deserves our support and recognition in pushing the Plett Feeling to new frontiers. Catch Nada J at Saturday’s 24 Hour Reunion, where she will be showcasing her work as part of the Plett ARTS Festival. The 2018 Plett ARTS Festival runs from June 25 to July 9 and tickets are available through Plett Tourism’s website and Quicket. Visit www. pletttourism.com for more information and read on for this week’s competition question and winner announcement. COMPETITION Plett Tourism and CXPRESS have been offering five read-

COLOUR CRAZY: Noloyiso ‘Nada’ Jujwana, who hails from KwaNokuthula in Plett, is inspired by the community she grew up in and all shades of the rainbow rather than by particular design styles

ers the chance of winning a set of Plett ARTS Festival Season Tickets (valued at R950 per ticket) as well as a few cool Fidel-style festival caps, valued at R100 and available for sale from Plett Tourism. Simply answer the question: Where did Plett 24 Hour Reunion star Noloyiso ‘Nada’ Jujwana gain her diploma in fashion design? Email your answer, name, and contact details to esther@cx-

press.co.za and watch this space for the final winner announcement. Season tickets allow free access to events and activities owned by Plett Tourism. The winner of our fourth set of tickets and caps is Jantie Oosthuizen from Plett. Thanks to everyone who has entered so far - you’re welcome to enter again this week for a final attempt at winning the last of the last Plett ARTS Festival prize!

Satire on the double during next two Plett Fringe Fest nights TS first act in the bag after Saturday’s sax extravaganza by Andrew Young, this year’s Plett Fringe Festival backed by Wesgro continues at The White House tonight when versatile Daniel Mpilo Richards takes to the stage with State Fracture. A long, hard, often hilarious look at the South Africa we currently love to hate, award-

winning writer Mike van Graan ticks all the boxes with his insightful writing in a skilfully crafted show by accomplished director Rob van Vuuren. Daniel returns tomorrow night, Thursday June 28, with Land Acts - the hottest topic in SA at the moment. It’s contentious, fuels anger and angst, and fills talk shows and column space

with perspectives as diverse as our rainbow population. This third (and final) collaboration between Daniel, Rob, and Mike follows their highly successful Pay back the Curry and State Fracture revues. Daniel owns the stage in this multi-sketch piece that combines provocative humour with impressive and versatile

performing skills. Sunday July 1 will see popular and multi-talented Afrikaans and English singer Chris Chameleon, in full flight with Jy en Ek en Ek en Jy - both musically and lyrically his most adventurous work to date. Contact Ann Fermor on 082 452 8764 and see www.kids ofkurland.com for more details.

NEWS & VIEWS

27 June 2018

CXPRESS

Spat between mayor and minister diverts from matters giving rise to riots A row has erupted between Bitou mayor Peter Lobese and Western Cape Transport and Public Works minister Donald Grant over the response to the recent riots that gripped several communities in Plettenberg Bay - YOLANDÉ STANDER reports HE protests - which included road closures, looting, and petrol bombings following demands for among others housing, clinics, and schools - came to an end when the communities scheduled a meeting with Lobese, who agreed to bring an action plan to the table to address their issues. But before Lobese’s feedback on June 21, several Western Cape MECs, including Transport and Public Works MEC Donald Grant, visited Bitou, which evoked criticism from the mayor. In a statement Lobese said he was disappointed in these MECs, claiming that they had failed to address the communities at the centre of the riots while also failing to inform him of their visits. Lobese said he was disappointed in the conduct of Grant as well as that of Community Safety MEC Dan Plato, and Human Settlements MEC Bonginkosi Madikizela.

He added that they had visited several communities in Bitou, “without the courtesy of informing the mayor or council of their visits”. This, he said, despite written invitations to come and address demands by Qolweni and Kurland Village residents for housing, land, clinics, police stations, and schools - which he said fell outside the scope of the municipality’s mandate. Municipal spokesman Manfred van Rooyen said their inputs could have assisted in defusing the situation. “The conduct of the ministers is therefore in serious violation of applicable protocols in terms of the system of intergovernmental relations,” he said. Lobese said he suspected that this might have been a “set-up or political campaigning” for the upcoming provincial and national elections next year rather than engagements to understand and support the genuine efforts of the municipality. The mayor also ques-

tioned why the MECs failed to meet with the affected communities of Kurland and Qolweni while they were in Bitou. Lobese, however, welcomed an undertaking by national Human Settlements Minister Nomaindiya Mfeketo, who is scheduled to visit Bitou next month. Other ministers are also expected to visit the town. Grant hit back by saying Lobese’s statement was not only false, but misleading. He said on June 9 his department received an emailed letter from Lobese requesting a formally-scheduled meeting to discuss the demands made by Kurland Village residents following riots in May. “I spoke telephonically to mayor Lobese himself and through my department, I confirmed and formally scheduled a meeting with him for June 15 at 11am at his office.” Grant said when he arrived for the meeting he was informed by Lobese’s staff

that no such meeting had been scheduled. “I produced documents confirming the scheduled meeting, whereafter Van Rooyen arrived to see me.” Grant said he then requested Van Rooyen to convey to

Lobese that he would make himself available to meet until June 18. “Predictably, neither the mayor nor Van Rooyen contacted me. “Considering the real facts, I reject the mayor’s press statement with the contempt it deserves. This is by far not the first time that mayor Lobese has not honoured his commitments to meet with me.” He said despite Lobese’s “false accusations and self-

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serving capriciousness at the expense of Bitou” the Western Cape provincial government - which over the past four years had built schools, roads, and clinics for Bitou - would continue to provide its “unfailing support”. “Finally I, as the MEC of Transport and Public Works, ensured that my fellow MECs of Community Safety, Human Settlements, Local Government, To page 5

CXPRESS

27 June 2018

NEWS & VIEWS

Local delegates visit China to discuss global Garden Route investment DEN District Municipality (EDM) recently received an invitation from the Hong Kong Trade Development Council (HKTDS) to attend the Belt and Road Summit on June 28 in Hong Kong, China. During the sojourn, delegates from EDM will also go on a fact-finding mission to Shanghai, visit the cofounder of ChinaSouth Africa Bridge (CSA), and engage with New China Time Technology (NCTT) director Dr Hongbin Cheng. Dr Cheng formed part of the Chinese delegation who visited the Garden Route on two previous occasions with a keen interest in the region as an investment partner. Other objectives of the visit to China as follows:

BRAND NEW BUSINESS PARTNERS: The Eden delegation and their Chinese counterparts have lots of reason to smile over investmentrelated collaboration - they are pictured here in front of the Shanghai Golden Up Technology Company earlier this week

HOWZIT! Eden District Municipal Planning and Economic Development manager Lusanda Menze shoots a selfie with the rest of the travellers upon departure - at back are, from left, Eden mayor Memory Booysen, municipal manager Monde Stratu, and mayoral office manager Siphiwe Dladla, with LED manager Melanie Wilson in front

• To present the region as a suitable destination for trade and investment by meeting with Chinese business and government representatives; • To hold strategic engagements and possible partnerships; • To discuss the establishment of a possible communication centre to enable efficient communication between the two countries (such centres have already been established in Korea, Thailand, and Germany, with one underway in the Netherlands, as per feedback from Dr Cheng in October 2016); • To investigate trade and investment opportunities regarding agriculture and agriprocessing, renewable energy technologies, as well as tourism. • To do site visits to familiarise the Eden team with practical solutions to various economic initiatives specifically in the fields as already alluded to. EDM representatives who are travelling to China include Eden mayor Memory Booysen, municipal manager Monde Stratu, Planning and Economic Development manager Lusanda Menze, Tourism and LED manager Melanie Wilson, and mayoral office manager Siphiwe Dladla. Hong Kong Belt and Road Summit The Belt and Road Initiative is a visionary blueprint that seeks to enhance global economic development. The government of the Hong Kong Special Administrative Region and the HKTDC jointly organised the third edition of the Belt and Road Summit at Hong Kong Convention and Exhibition Centre, themed ‘Collaborate for Success’. A full-day of one-on-one business matching activities will take place tomorrow. The three concurrent project presentation and networking sessions will feature notable projects from sectors of transport and logistics infrastructure; energy, natural resources and public utilities; and rural and urban development (i.e. including agricultural projects, industrial park development, and Special Economic Zones/SEZs). The investment and business-matching session serves the purpose of creating a platform for integrated matchmaking and networking. Business and government will also be able to connect with project owners and operators, investors and service providers from a myriad of business sectors.

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Meetings and site visits with Dr Cheng EDM has been invited to engage with relevant Chinese business and government stakeholders based on previous discussions with Dr Cheng, leader of the Chinese business delegation who visited Eden District in October 2016 and during the Garden Route Investment Conference in March. During the discussions, Dr Cheng indicated that they intended to establish trade relations with the Garden Route regarding agriculture and agri-processing, renewable energy technologies, as well as cultural tourism. During Dr Cheng’s second visit, his delegation met with various small, medium and micro enterprises to discuss possible trade opportunities which would further be facilitated through the assistance of Wesgro. No business representatives will be included in this visit, as it will be a fact-finding visit and business will be invited once a relationship between EDM and relevant China stakeholders have been established.

NEWS & VIEWS

27 June 2018

Couple sought for alleged rape EORGE Family Violence, Child Protection and Sexual Offences (FCS) unit seeks assistance to trace two suspects - a man and a woman implicated in a recent rape case in Pacaltsdorp on May 3. Preliminary information indicates that the 11-year-old victim went to a tuck-shop while on her way to school at about 7am when the suspects approached and called her to their car. She refused to get in so they followed her, and the female occupant proceeded to grab the girl by the hand and foot and forced her into the back of the car, driven by the male. They tied her hands and covered her mouth. They then drove towards

WANTED: The ID kits of the suspects in question

the Pacaltsdorp Industrial area where the man allegedly raped the girl twice while his accomplice looked on and enticed the male suspect. Afterwards they threw her out of the car and drove off. The girl managed to walk back to her residence in Pacaltsdorp, but only reported the ordeal to her mother a week later. The only description that the victim could give at the time was that the suspects drove a blue car, suspected to be an older model Opel Cadet or similar-shaped car. Anyone with information regarding the incident or whereabouts of the suspects can contact sergeant Yolande Carolus on 044 803 4621.

Spat between mayor and minister From page 3 and Health were also available in Bitou on June 15 to meet with mayor Lobese. Lobese then responded again, saying that although he did not want important matters of Bitou to “be reduced into a public spectacle and squabble”, he felt it necessary to react to the claims. “You [Grant] have never accepted the invitation, but through your office, merely acknowledged receipt of the correspondence. Your visit on June 15 came as a complete surprise, as I was

Properties

in a series of meetings with the affected businesses and other stakeholders of Bitou, following the protests in Qolweni,” Lobese said. “I’m fully cognisant of the fact that the MEC [Grant] is the political head and constituency manager of the DA in Bitou, but I believe often times the MEC wears his various hats inter-changeably, when he is attending to government business while in Bitou. “So I have been at the receiving end of a regular, unfortunate and undignified

Plettenberg Bay

practice for the minister to visit me as a passing, by the way, consideration, while he is in fact attending to party political commitments in Bitou and thus funding party political trips from the public coffers.” The DA did not respond to Lobese’s final statement. • Van Rooyen indicated that he would provide feedback on the outcome of the mayor’s June 21 meeting with residents involved in the recent protests, but this did not materialise before going to print.

CXPRESS

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CXPRESS

NEWS & VIEWS

27 June 2018

Bitou Municipality springs for Greenpop student scholarships HIRTEEN deserving students from Plett have been sponsored by Bitou Municipality, so enabling them to join Greenpop’s Eden Festival of Action. In order to make the Eden Festival of Action as accessible and inclusive to the local community as possible, Greenpop provided a limited number of scholarships for enthusiastic, young, active Garden Route citizens to attend the event free of charge. Of the spaces available,

Bitou Municipality generously donated funding for 13 successful applicants from Plettenberg Bay between the ages of 13 and 17. “I saw how animals and people suffered and felt terrible because there was nothing I could do about it. I want to give back to our world by reconnecting with nature and myself. “I want to help where I can and rebuild what we have lost,” explains one successful candidate, who will be joining Greenpop at

Peace of Eden for the second Youth Week in July. Bitou Municipality supports the upskilling of local scholars especially in a year where the national prerogative is to develop matriculants with more than just a matric certificate, according to documentation supporting the sponsorship. “Teaching youngsters about our green heritage and preserving and enhancing the natural resources of this beautiful municipal area is key to grow the

economy of Bitou. “The partnership with Greenpop provides the right vehicle to build such foundations. The municipality wants to enter into a multiyear agreement and add more students to this programme in years to come.” The students have received the opportunity to attend the seven-day residential programme which includes full board and lodging at Peace of Eden in Rheenendal, in addition to the full schedule of activities,

workshops, and activations. These include tree-planting, natural building, eco-education, and beekeeping. The event is spearheaded by Greenpop - an awardwinning social and environmental NPO that brought its seventh Festival of Action to the Garden Route to regenerate habitats and restore ecosystems to create mass environmental impact. Visit www.greenpop.org and call 021 461 9265 or email info@greenpop.org for further information.

I WANT TO GIVE BACK: Local youngsters are looking forward to join Greenpop at Peace of Eden for the Youth Week in July

OUR

Notice Board

@picardirebel

GIN’TASTIC SELECTION

• The Complete Music Quiz takes place at Plett Bowling Club in Challenge Drive on June 28 from 6:30pm onwards. The entry fee of R600 per team (max six members) includes a supper prepared by the club’s able crew. As in the past, the quiz will be divided in four rounds: Classical, Pop, Musicals, and Rock n Roll, with prizes for the winners of each round. All proceeds will benefit Plett Surf Lifesaving Club and junior sports development in Bitou. The Club’s lounge can accommodate 18 teams, so first come first served. Don’t miss out on this fun evening for an excellent cause. Contact Barry Ricketts on 072 890 6238 or at barryricketts48@hotmail.com to enter. • The African Hoofprint Foundation hosts its Celebrating Beauty through Ashes fundraiser on June 30 at Cairnbrogie Farm to commemorate the Garden Route fires of 2017 and celebrate the community of Plett. The main drawcard is the Plett Eco Fun Hike and Ride - an experience with different distances for different participants. Individuals participating on horseback will ride an 11km trail at 9am or a 5km trail at 10am; those walking dogs will start a 2.5km trail walk at 9:30am or a 5km trail walk at 10am. And if you don’t have your pet along, you can walk the distance and trail of your choice with one of the pooches from both the Sunshine Sanctuary and PAWS. Kids of all ages will love the Fancy Dress Competition; dress as your favourite superhero and participate in the parade. Buy your ticket at R50 online or at the gate email africahoofprintfoundation@gmail.com or call 063 029 8744 for further details.

NEWS & VIEWS

27 June 2018

CXPRESS

Mill tours, weaving, soap-making, markets, and art await at Old Nick N celebration of their 20th anniversary, Mungo will be hosting an hour-long tour of Mungo Mill over the weekends during winter. This coming weekend at 11:30am on Saturday June 30 and Sunday July 1, either the founder or designer will take you on a tour of the only textile mill in South Africa where you can experience the entire weaving process from yarn to finished product. Mungo is a proudly South African company that designs, crafts and sells beautiful contemporary textile homeware worldwide. No booking required. • For the next three Saturdays, Marti’s Woolen and Woven will host half-hour workshops throughout the day, where youngsters can learn the art of hand weav-

ing. For just R60 they will be taught how to make a handwoven soft toy, which they will get to take home afterward. Call Gillian on 082 602 2882 or email gillian@ oldnick.co.za to book. • Passage Gallery, in conjunction with The Plett Arts Festival, is hosting an exhibition by renowned local artist Guy Thesen from June 25 to July 31. The works represent a series of coloured woodcuts entitled ‘Enigma’ that was inspired by ancient rock engravings, as well as Guy’s black and white woodcuts that explore his relationship with the ancient past and an undreamt future. • Visit the Mid-week Market every Wednesday between 10am and 2pm for local fresh organic produce, with live entertainment during the holidays.

• On Monday July 2 and Tuesday the 3rd, come and build your own fairy or elfin house @ Red Shed Nursery from 10:30 to 12:30 (ages six and older). R150 per child includes all materials - book with Sarah on 084 727 1777. • Make your own handmoulded soaps @ Ruby Soul every Wednesday. Today (June 27), you will have the opportunity to make a coconut snowball and an orange soap. Your R100 entry fee includes all ingredients and all ages are welcome. Book with Debbie on 083 265 3575. Old Nick Village is a dog-friendly (on leashes) shopping environment and most facilities are wheelchair-friendly. Email gil lian@oldnick.co.za and see the adverts below for additional information.

‘I See Fire’ tribute to folk who restored dignity dance performance to honour the many victims of the fires around Plett in June 2017 will be performed by dancers of Cape Town’s Pointe School of Ballet and the TownsendGeldenhuys School of Ballet this Saturday. “In order to put behind us the terrible ordeal of last year’s devastating fires that

destroyed so many homes, Ouland Royale Magical Barn is hosting a ballet performance in tribute to all who survived,” says Ouland Royale owner Wilja Reitz, adding that proceeds will go to families still in need of financial assistance. “We thank our wonderful community for helping us during this difficult time

and for giving us back our dignity,” she says. The ballet performance on June 30 starts at 6:30pm. Gates open at 5:45pm and no late admissions will be allowed. The pre-paid only seats are limited and R150 per person includes a snack, while wine and soft drinks will be for sale. Call Wilja on 082 859 1250 to book.

CXPRESS

BUSINESS

27 June 2018

Global warming and climate change: SA action a bit late in the day? With weather-related events becoming more extreme, the worst scenario is that we may have to choose between fire and water, muses STUART MURRAY

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HE National Climate Change Bill, just published for public comment, has taken some time to put together. In 2000, SA submitted to the United Nations an Initial National Communication showing climate change experienced at that time. However, it was not until 2006 that we secured UN funding for key climate-change scientists to pursue the issue. The latest report, while not quite joining the nearhysterical clamour of the gloom and doom lobby, does confirm the development of serious climatic change coupled with global warming. In SA, the Western Cape has experienced poor rainfall and subsequent drought in many areas, the devastating fires in Knysna/Plett, and severe storms have battered Gauteng and KwaZulu Natal. Piotr Wolski of UCT’s Climate System Analysis Group predicts extreme events will become more extreme. Our natural treasures are also on the receiving end. Kruger National Park faces a catastrophic loss of animal species. Like almost two thirds of South Africa, Kruger is a dryland area, making it vulnerable to climate change. Globally, weather-related

catastrophes like storms, floods, and droughts have increased 600% since the 1950s, according to Climate Wise. And a general consensus among meteorologists is that climate change is having a massive impact generally. Insurers and reinsurers have been having a torrid time. Losses in the Knysna/Plett fires amounted to an estimated R4-billion. Farming claims have soared and many insurers have implemented, or are considering, climate change in their product offering and pricing, says Old Mutual’s John Nienaber. He warns: “The real concern is whether these conditions will become the norm or even worsen. This is because insurance is based on fortuitous events.” He warns that a continuation or deterioration of adverse weather patterns related to climate change could possibly result in a loss of insurability for policyholders in high risk areas (such as the Garden Route). But are weather conditions likely to worsen? Who knows... There is a school of thought that they will; another that they are part of a normal pattern. However, South Africa’s newly published National Climate Change

Bill acknowledges that “anthropological climate change represents an urgent threat... and requires an effective, progressive, and well-coordinated response”. It highlights that anticipated domestic change impacts have the potential to undermine the country’s development goals, posing unique challenges in terms of our response. The purpose of the bill, it explains, is to build an effective response to climate change that will ensure transition to “a climate resilient and lower carbon economy and society”. A ministerial committee is to be appointed, tasked with overseeing the efforts across “all sectors of government in liaison with provincial committees”. These have been given a year to come up with an assessment of climate change needs and solutions. Other provisions in the bill include determining a gas-emissions threshold and to propose the allocation of carbon budgets. It all sounds very scientific and purposeful, but isn’t it a little late in the day? Will the reality of what is required come to light, or will carbon emissions related to climate change go on being discussed in committees (as are so many other

pressing national issues)? Hopefully, the UN funding will be generous. There remain a number of camps who consider extreme weather as the new normal, a sort of natural progression - and all a bit overemphasised. But research shows global temperature increases of 4% corresponding to current rates of carbon emissions will lock in almost 9m of sea-level rise caused by melting glaciers, ice caps, and polar ice. The expansion of sea water as it warms up will compound these effects. There are no time predictions as to how soon we’ll be swimming or frying; it could take 200 years or 2,000 years for coastal areas like the Garden Route, to be engulfed. As an aside, Cape Town is an interesting example, considering that over the years so much of its seafront land has been recovered from the ocean. The Waterfront will go, as will the harbour itself while suburbs like Woodstock and surround may end up as a haven for surfers. • 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 Plett.

PROMOTION

27 June 2018

CXPRESS

HOLIDAY ACTIVITIES

27 June 2018

Marvellous ways to spend the best 10 days of your winter T’S Knysna Oyster Festival time from June 29 to July 8 and these are some of the fun activities taking place during the next week… Hit the road and trail Knysna will be a cycler’s paradise during this weekend when the Momentum Knysna Cycle Tour MTB events kick off on Saturday June 30 with challenging trails through the region’s forests and farmlands. The road races on Sunday July 1 include a 115km and a 50km route. The 115km road race, as well as the 80km and 50km MTB races, will again be seeding events for the 2019 Cape Town Cycle Tour. Also not to be missed are the family rides, kiddies’ ride and MTB X. (Online entries close today, June 27). Splash of colour - with a social conscience In an exciting initiative, Knysna Municipality’s Economic Development team has supported local entrepreneurs to host events as part of the festival. First up is Bulelane Memane’s Colour Splash Party, featuring well-known Joburg DJ Bongs on Saturday June 30 at Club Nitelife in Dam Se Bos. On Sunday the 1st, Oliver Mabukane is hosting the Ikasi Colour Fun Run which will be followed by a street bash after party. The event starts at Khayalethu Community Hall and the 4.7km run finishes at Concordia CDC. Foodie fun In a brand-new event, Smart Shopper card holders and their partners are invited to reserve a spot at the Fresh Taste of Pick n Pay. Look forward to being served scrumptious delights and indulge in fresh oysters accompanied by Heinz Hot Sauce. This will be rounded off with the perfect wine or bubbly from Van Loveren wines. Diarise Wednesday July 4 from 4-7pm at Woodmill Lane for this wonderful treat of authentic flavours and live music. Two sessions will be run: the first from 4-5:30pm and the second from 5:307pm. Space is limited, so book early to avoid disappointment.

Mix it up Mix up your festival fun with some of the many tourism activities on offer, such as a Knysna Lagoon trip on a ferry, inflatable boat, yacht, or kayak. For the more adventurous, there’s paragliding and even bungee jumping. It takes less than an hour from Knysna to Bloukrans Bridge, where you’ll find the highest bridge bungee jump in the world at 216m! (See the advert on page 11). Take on the Harbour2Heads Lagoon Challenge on Sunday July 1 - a marathonstyle paddle on the beautiful Knysna Estuary - or attempt the Momentum Knysna Lagoon Mile Swim on Monday the 2nd. Wine, wonderful wine The Knysna Wine Festival may be an institution, but this year’s location on Thesen Islands will be a first. Experience the best of SA’s wine farms on Monday July 2 and Tuesday the 3rd from 5-9pm. More than 200 wines from 50+ producers will be on offer, as well as craft liquors from across the Cape Winelands and Garden Route. Tickets cost R150 and are available at Webtickets. A breath of fresh air Experience the wonders of nature by joining the FNB Forest Family Hike on either Monday July 2, Wednesday the 4th or Friday the 6th. The legendary Harkerville Trails provide people of all ages and fitness levels the chance to absorb the magic of these famous forests. There is a brisk hike over a 10km distance, and shorter rambles of 6km and 2.5km. Look out for a Knysna Loerie or even an elephant. Share the ecological importance of the forests with children while enjoying quality family time. An entertaining talk on the history of the area and its rare forest fauna and flora is part of the fun. Runners rule! On Tuesday July 3, the Momentum Featherbed Trail Run provides an 11km Seahorse and a 15km Coelacanth option. Visit www. oysterfestival.co.za for the full programme and see the ad on page 11 for further details.

HOLIDAY ACTIVITIES

27 June 2018

CXPRESS

BRING THE KIDS TO FEED THE GOATS Monkeyland Rd, The Crags, Plettenberg Bay (044) 534 8997 also at TIMBERLAKE, N2 between Sedgefield & Wilderness

www.mohairmillshop.com

EVERY FRIDAY NIGHT KICK OFF YOUR WEEKEND WITH

HAPPY HOUR

HALF-PRICED DRINKS FROM 6 - 7 PM ENJOY R25 BEER ON TAP ALL NIGHT LONG PLETT’S BEST WOOD-FIRED PIZZA AND LIVE MUSIC FROM 6 - 9 PM @emilymoonriverlodge #SimonsBarFridays info@emilymoon.co.za | +27 (44) 501 2500 | 1 Rietvlei Road, Plettenberg Bay | T’s & C’s apply

Join us for an evening of side splitting comedy with comedians extraordinaire Kagiso Mokgadi, Carl Weber, Yasseen Barnes and Dalin Oliver. Bring your friends and be entertained during your best 10 days of winter as these comedic heavy weights keep the laughs coming. Tickets cost R180 and are available at www.webtickets.co.za or at the Pick n Pay Knysna and George store Money Counters.

Thursday, 5 July | 19:00 – 21:00 Mitchell’s Brew Pub

CXPRESS

INTERVAL

27 June 2018

A parrot in flight... N reaching his plane seat a man is surprised to see a parrot strapped in next to him. He asks the stewardess for a coffee, whereupon the parrot squawks: “And get me a whisky!” The flustered stewardess brings back a whisky for the parrot and forgets the coffee. When this omission is pointed out to her, the parrot drains its glass and bawls: “And get me another whisky!” Quite upset, the stew-

ardess comes back shaking with another whisky, but still no coffee. Unaccustomed to such treatment, the man tries the parrot’s approach: “I’ve asked you twice for a coffee. Go and get it now!” The next moment, both he and the parrot are both grabbed and thrown out of the emergency exit by two burly stewards. Plunging downwards, the parrot turns to the man and says: “For someone who can’t fly, you are rather cheeky!”

Thanks for the meal Y older sister complained when she saw the leftover meatloaf on the table from last night’s supper. “Oh no, not leftovers again!” she exclaimed. “Young lady,” responded my father sternly, “do you know how many people would love to have a

delicious supper like this? You should be ashamed of yourself. Now before we start eating I want to hear you say grace thanking the Lord for this delicious meal.” “Thank you Lord for this delicious supper,” muttered my sister submissively, “… again!”

Dogs and cats are better than kids because they:

1) Eat less; 2) Don’t ask for money all the time; 3) Are easier to train; 4) Normally come when called; 5) Never ask to drive the car; 6) Don’t smoke or drink;

7) Don’t want to wear your clothes; 8) Don’t have to buy the latest fashions; 9) Don’t need a gazillion rand for university, and 10) If they get pregnant, you can sell their children.

“Time separates the best of friends,” said one woman to her friend. “How true,” replied her friend. “Twenty years ago we were fifteen, now you’re thirty-five and I’m twenty-nine!”

Gravity defying sculptures

SOCIAL SCENE Photo: Lynette Mullins/ShowMe Plett

27 June 2018

CXPRESS

People, places & events

La Luna

DIFFERENTLY-ABLED AMBASSADORS: During a meeting at the spectacular Sky Villa, perched on the hill above Old Nick Village on Baron’s View Estate, well-loved Plett resident Rita Hardaker, left, convened a meeting to brainstorm her Differently-Abled Awareness Campaign with members of the media and the head honchos at two of town’s top tourist attractions. Seated with Rita at centre is manager of The Bungalow on Hobie Beach, Lucy Slabbert, and Sky Villa/Bungalow general manager Paul Duvergé, who treated the gathering to a brunch so scrumptious it nearly diverted from the important business at hand. Rita, you see, has been walking and driving around Plett to ascertain exactly how user-friendly its roads and eateries, shops and accommodation establishments are. And after every foray would follow correspondence to inform owners or others in charge of the many snags that may prevent someone in a wheelchair or on crutches, for instance, of negotiating these establishments with ease. All of these efforts have one singular aim: to make Plett the most differentlyabled-friendly town in South Africa. Now word is spreading of the vast tourism sector guaranteed to converge on the bay once minor building alterations enable a major number of visitors and their helpers to enjoy all Plett has to offer. Watch this space for news of a magnificent Differently-Abled Awareness Campaign competition to launch these holidays.

GOOD SAX: The Plett Fringe Festival opened on the evening of Saturday June 23 at The White House Theatre, when saxman Andrew Young, at far left, accompanied on keyboard by René Piet, played a delightful selection of their own compositions and well-known favourites. Among those who enjoyed Fringe Opening Night were, from left above, Ruby Chetty, Tracey Davidson, Sharon Huddle, and Charmain and Carel Hechter, all of whom live happily in the beautiful bay. Also in attendance at The White House were members of staff of The Crags Primary School in Kurland Village, to which educational establishment the proceeds of the festival are directed. Find out more about tonight’s Fringe star Daniel Richards, left, on page 2. - Timothy Twidle

GREEN ACTION: Last weekend saw Greenpop’s Eden Festival of Action kicking off in Rheenendal and Knysna. An opening event was held at Pledge Nature Reserve on Thursday, and on Saturday 80 participants between the ages of 13 and 19 arrived on site in Rheenendal for a week of collective, positive environmental action. Sunday saw the first day of active participation, with a mass alien vegetation clearing at Goukamma Nature Reserve - which was badly affected by the fires of 2017 - in preparation for upcoming indigenous reforestation. During this week many activities are planned, including mural painting in public spaces, reforestation, eco-brick activations and a number of sustainability workshops. Eden locals are urged to join the Greenpopcrew for one of their free open days - visit www.festivalofaction.com to find out more. Pictured at right are some of the participants with Greenpop founder Misha Teasdale, second from left, who provided a warm welcome to all participants along with programmes manager Matthew Koehorst.

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CXPRESS

27 June 2018

CLASSIFIEDS

ON THE SOAPBOX

27 June 2018

Letters to the Editor

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

Your police bungling boggles the mind I refer to the article ‘Wild West chase on N2 concludes with speedster’s death in Plett cells’, as reported in your issue on June 13 [turn to page 4 of that edition at www. cxpress.co.za]. On reading this story I had to check the date to make sure this was not some form of April Fool’s joke. Sadly, the

date was not April 1. Are we to believe that for the over 90km between George and Plettenberg Bay, the police were unable to stop a speeding vehicle, driven by a suspected car thief, with all the legal amenities at their disposal, and were only able to arrest the driver when his vehicle was brought to a stand-

still after being involved in an accident in Plettenberg Bay? The mind boggles! Taxi drivers and/or other types of protestors are able to block a national road at random with impunity and an apparent immunity to any form of prosecution. Perhaps the police should take some lessons from taxi drivers

and the like on how to close off a road. To then have the arrested man allegedly murdered by a fellow cell mate in the police holding cells is simply beyond belief. I do not know whether to cry or laugh at police ineptness. Where do we go from here? Kevin Meineke, Hout Bay

‘Brilliant’ plan, but no support from Bitou LED Dear CXPRESS readers, my name is Dancille and I have found a very good way to fight crime in our communities. I have even approached the Bitou LED [Local Economic Development] department for help with this glorious plan. Everyone said that it was a brilliant idea but no one provided any assistance. This is my own idea and my own project, that will only be made possible through the cooperation of you, my fellow citizens. I am calling it ‘Shine A Way Tourism Adventure’ and hope to offer traditional community arts walks. We will present talks about the traditions and

cultures of our different communities, for instance the Griekwas of Kranshoek, the Xhosa in KwaNokuthula, and the Khoi-san - who are the so called coloureds - in New Horizons, Wittedrift, and The Crags. The story about their different traditions will be told to our guests; we will visit local artists in the community and the tours will also include talks to some elders. These tours will be constructed so that each community is represented, including certain traditional foods and crafts. Shine A Way will be a registered entity and the project will provide jobs to at least five people,

Fishing on the Piesang

while 5% of any profit from the tours will go towards social economic development. This will help stop crime through the creation of food kitchens in our different communities. We can also establish youth sport structures with activities such as modelling

and performing arts like acting and music. Shine A Way will aim to be represented provincially by 2023 with participants in these modelling, arts, and sports projects. Please contact me on 072 597 3228 if you would like to get involved. Dancille Witbooi, Plett

Please publish local hatches and despatches During the past couple of weeks, a few people have passed on to The Great Beyond with a number of us not knowing - until it was too late to attend their funerals or memorial services. We all felt that there should be some vehicle to keep us in the loop, and CXPRESS would be the perfect publication for this purpose. How about starting a Hatches and Despatches column? It could even generate a bit of income for your popular newspaper. June Barclay, Plett

(Great suggestion, June - not least because it’s a fact that a significant chunk of our loyal readership prefers print media or a good old-fashioned telephone call to social media when it comes to catching up on news of friends and loved ones near and far. Readers are most welcome to share their views and suggestions in this regard, and are invited to announce said arrivals and departures of CX Country residents by emailing editor@cxpress. co.za with the happy or sad news. - Eds.)

Ontmoet hierdie gawe voetslaners Derek Frielinghaus shared this picture last week of a Giant Kingfisher taking a breather in-between hunting forays in Plett’s Piesang River. Nice to know it’s business as usual for our feathered friends, even though the world today seems particularly wild at heart and weird on top…

Short shots... I have often wondered what people expect to gain by burning things in protest, so I did a small experiment. I didn’t want to go too big, so I burnt 12 slices of toast to protest against the price of bread. The result? My house smells like burnt toast. There’s no more bread in the house. Bread still costs the same. I’m hungry. Conclusion? That sh*t doesn’t work - you just screw yourself... Helen Mudge, Plett --Some weeks ago, Bitou Municipality drilled a few boreholes at Plett Country Club. On the 10th and 15th fairways they struck

water - and lots of it. But three weeks down the line they haven’t managed to cap these boreholes, which means that water is streaming into the ponds and dams on the course, and from there down-river to the ocean. And I’m talking about a strong current and vast volumes. I remember clearly that a borehole drilled on the 17th some years back could also not be capped. So now there are even more spots where water is p*ssed away in bulk. It also raises further concerns about our aquifer. Funny thing, at the club’s toilets it says ‘Save Water’… ‘What a Waste’, Plett

Ons visie en missie by Voetslaan SA/Hiking SA is om alle stappers te verteenwoordig deur middel van ‘n platform vir die bespreking van aangeleenthede soos wandelpaaie, stappers se vereistes, toerusting, die rol van die staat, asook om raad te deel met stappers, roete-eienaars, en die algemene publiek. Voorts beoog Voetslaan SA om samewerking met die regering te verkry deur stap te erken as ‘n vorm van sport, om toerisme daardeur te stimuleer en sodoende werkskepping te bevorder. Ons bevorder ook die implementering van Groenvlag-geakkrediteerde wandelpaaie wat roete-eienaars in staat stel om hul wandelpaaie ekologies volhoubaar te bestuur en te bemark, en optimale finansiële voordeel daaruit te trek, synde die akkreditasie van sulke roetes.

Voetslaan SA nader plaaslike munisipaliteite en reservate (privaat sowel as onder staatsbestuur) om deel te word van hierdie liggaam om stap en die ontwilkkeling van wandelpaaie in ons onderskeie dorpe te bevorder en te help in stand hou. Skole en klubs word ook geteiken. Talle nasionale instansies skakel in by die werk van Voetslaan SA, waaronder SANParks, MTO, en CapeNature, en ons president is Roshael Hoosen (president@hosa vosa.co.za). Kontak my gerus by 083 739 1558 of vicepresident@hosavosa. co.za om deel te wees van Voetslaan SA se Suidkaap Streek, of om u roete te laat assesseer en akkrediteer. Volg ons by www.facebook.com/hosasoutherncape vir meer inligting. Victor Cunningham, Stormsrivier

CXPRESS

SPORT & ADVENTURE

27 June 2018

Wheels of change are in motion at Murray High School Read CXPRESS online at www.cxpress.co.za

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N an effort to develop young underprivileged mountain bike (MTB) riders in the Southern Cape, Kwano Cycling Academy was established four years ago - and it’s doing just that. Today it operates in an exclusive partnership with Murray High School, its ultimate aim being to use the sport as catalyst for change by promoting, uplifting, and transforming the face of MTB in the Plett community of KwaNokuthula. According to Colin Shave, who cofounded the academy with four friends, establishing the programme was challenging at first but things are starting to look up as more Murray High pupils are participating in the sport and reaping its rewards. And with so much positivity and appreciation from participating riders, Shave says it’s all worth it. “We are incredibly proud of the team. Having started with six learners at the school, it’s grown in leaps and bounds. We see the hard work, dedication, and perseverance paying off and to us, that’s what’s most important,” he says. Shave established the academy in 2014 specifically to promote MTB as a sport at Murray High. A six-member team has grown to 32 young MTB buffs and the good news is that plans are afoot to further expand, allowing the academy to accommodate about 60 learners in the coming months. “We aim to identify, coach, and nurture young cycling talent in the community while sticking with our four core values of integrity, accountabil-

RIDING HIGH: In the past few years, the Kwano Cycling Academy team has grown from six members to 32, some of whom are pictured with cofounder Colin Shave, second from left

ity, commitment, and respect. These we keep in front and centre of everything we do,” he says. Shave says Murray High has been fortunate to participate in the Spur Schools MTB League for the past two years and that he’s “immensely proud” of the team’s progress and commitment to the tournament. Having joined the League in 2016, the school has made significant performance progress since. During the 2017 season, the team scooped third place in the Southern Cape region, which Shave describes as a “definite highlight”. The appetite for inschool MTB is growing among Murray High pupils, and to keep up with demand, the academy recently employed a full-time coach to work alongside the team to improve their skills, technical challenges and race tactics to ensure they excel at the sport they’ve grown to love.

At the same time, Shave says they’ve also employed a full-time teacher to assist pupils with their academics and ensure they maintain a balanced sportschool programme at all times. The MTB team trains about three times weekly on school premises. “The fact that we needed to employ a full-time coach speaks volumes and demonstrates just how much the sport has grown and how well pupils continue to receive it,” he says. And while there’s still lots of work to do to get to where they want to be, the riders’ endurance, commitment, and enthusiasm to the sport is keeping staff going behind the scenes. Team captain Masixole Zondani says MTB has opened his eyes to a whole new world of sport. He enjoys the open roads and climbs most, but needs to improve his downhill and single-track skill, which he looks forward to refining with his coach. Says Zondani: “Moun-

tain biking means the world to me, giving me the opportunity to become a great cyclist, meet new people, and learn new skills. Most of all, it keeps me grounded.” • The Spur Schools Mountain Bike League was launched by Spur Steak Ranches and Amarider in 2009 as an initiative to provide regional and national structure in the sport at school level. It also aims to stimulate event-planning in the many regions where the sport is not active at school level. The league is about introducing more learners to bikes and encouraging South African schools to adopt mountain biking as an official sport. With these simple aims the Spur Schools Mountain Bike League has built a strong cross-country racing format, with four events taking place in each province between May and September. Visit www.spurmtblea gue.co.za for more info.