4 march

4 March 2015

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

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Otterly delightful Budget bad news for Route

Behind the lens with Sharyn

Love your home - inside & out

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p5

p10 & 11

Photo: Richard Harrison - Text: Howard Selfe

Two Cape clawless otters (Aonyx capensis) take time out of their busy day to watch a posse of humans cross their pristine territory. For the hikers who recently completed the Otter Trail - including Richard Harrison, the photographer - this sighting was a mega-highlight in five days absolutely jam-packed with natural highlights.

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CXPRESS

Travel

4 March 2015

Rescue from Big Tom’s Loop restores faith in human kindness Well-known local marine expert of Plett’s Centre for Dolphin Studies DR VIC COCKCROFT shares a tale of temporary despair and hope recouped after a recent visit to Hwange in Zimbabwe

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SOUR N DOUR NO MORE: Dr Vic Cockcroft thanks the Hwange crew for lightening his outlook on others

’M lucky enough to be an older father (and young grandpa), my daughter J being just 12 years old. She and I decided that a trip to Vic Falls over Christmas and New Year would be an exciting adventure.

So we opened up the money-box bottles, counted out the change and found we had almost R3,000 - enough to get us to Vic Falls from where we live on the Garden Route. Getting home would

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

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

have to be another challenge.

We planned the trip: a slow drive up, camping along the way, no more than 600km a day, and a fast return to be back for the first day of high school.

We leave on December 17, early in the morning, because day one is our longest drive, to Hopetown, to stay at Witput Country Lodge. This rustic, twuvkig place has a loo, hot water, an empty campsite, and friendly owners.

Day two is shorter, to Botsalano, a hidden gem. After a short game drive we settle in for the night, one of only two camping sites. The other is a young couple heading for the trans-Kalahari highway, through to Namibia.

An early start the next day, we clear Ramatlabama by about 7am and head through Gaborone to Francistown.

We make Woodlands StopOver & Lodge at about 12:30pm, leaving plenty of time to relax.

A lovely place - well grassed, clean ablutions, and a clear pool. My only complaint is all the hidden costs - would be so much better if all costs were detailed upfront. But, that said, still a place to visit again.

Another earlyish start to begin the long, desolate drive to Pandamatenga. Early afternoon arrival at Panda, fill up with diesel and then onto Panda Rest Camp. Once again, we are the sole campers. Nice, I like it this way.

Some people with noisy, noisy teenagers staying in the chalets, so the afternoon is filled with the joyous shouting and screaming of kids in the pool. Panda Rest Camp obviously has an electrical problem, because the power keeps on tripping.

Whether this was a contributing factor I don’t know, but the next morning our fridge had stopped working.

Oh well, we’d cook the last of the fresh and frozen food over the next two days. Sherbet, but it happens! There’s a big build-up of thunderclouds.

Lightening and a few spots of rain, but nothing serious.

Panda border is a breeze - friendly people glad to be busy, and proud of the fact that 12 cars went through the day before us. Thunder clouds are our companions, it’s the rainy season.

I ask what the road is like through the Matetsi Safari area, down to Robins Camp, Hwange. I’m told there are many muddy patches, but only one “bad patch” where quite a few have become stuck.

We leave confident that we’ll arrive at Robins. It’s an interesting drive with elephants, giraffe, sable antelope and impala along the way. Bar a few muddy patches, nothing too daunting and we arrive at Robins Camp before midday.

We check in for three nights, though we pay only for two nights’ camping, as we intend moving to Sinamatella on the last night. We’re one of four vehicles in the camp site.

After setting up camp, we have time to sit, snack and enjoy the surrounds. It’s a typical Zim rainy season.

The clouds are massing, huge thunderheads form and disperse, then form again.

The lightening begins about 3pm, the storms build and wander across the landscape, the thunder blending with other sounds from those storms in the distance, but crashing around you as they approach.

Off for a game drive at about 3:30pm the anticipation building... What will we see? It’s raining most of this time and the roads are littered with muddy spots, especially in the vlei areas.

But, we traverse them all with no problem, a bit of momentum, four-wheel-drive and luck. We end up at Deteema Dam. The ranger says they’ve been seeing a pride of eight lions. So we hang around, see the two hippos and try vainly to photograph the sky.

The clouds are smashing each other, the lightening is intense and the thunder renders speech almost impossible. Eventually we leave, needing to make the Robins Camp gate by 6pm.

We cook most of the remaining fresh and once frozen food, leaving a little for the next night. Our decision is to go out early the next morning, as the gate opens at 6am, to see what we can see.

There are few sounds during the night - maybe because of the rain, maybe because we’re just tired, we don’t hear anything.

Up, coffee, unpack as much as we won’t need and out the gate at 6am. The roads are wet, as the overnight rain has certainly slushed in. We turn back from one or two roads, because they look too little used and too muddy.

I eventually decide to head down Big Tom’s Loop. It’s relatively short so we should

HAPPY CAMPERS: Pictured at the top is our comfy camp at Woodlands in Botswana on night three; above, a curious inhabitant of Botsalano Game Reserve looks down on us

be back by 9am to enjoy an early brunch. The road seems fine, although there are no fresh car tracks and there are quite a few soggy patches.

After about 6km, we come upon a soggy patch about 30m long. I stop, engage 4x4 and pick up a bit of speed, approaching the mud puddle at about 20km/h. Thwack, I hit a submerged log.

My left front wheel goes over the log, but as it goes over, it tilts the log, such that it jams into my left back wheel, lifting the whole left side of the bakkie up, the tyre smoking. And then down with a thud and a dead stop...

I get out of the bakkie, with some trepidation, this is a National Park and a pride of eight lions was seen not far from here! I look around the vehicle, not knowing quite what happened.

I find the log wedged into the rear wheel arch, put two and three together and come up with my story. The fact is we’re almost up to the chassis in mud. There’s no room to fit a spare wheel and a jack underneath the vehicle.

There’s nowhere to anchor my winch onto, despite it being 6,000kg capacity - pretty useless really. Cellphone reception? Forget it!

In about half an hour, I manage to remove the offending log. It’s about calf thick and the length of a 12-year-old. I throw it as far as I can, which is not that far, but further than I’d want it to be in about an hour. So I dig mud. I find

sticks and logs and stones and I dig mud.

Now you have to understand that the morning is progressing, it’s getting hot. Caked mud gives me a new appreciation of body armour. My toes are permanently spread, my T-shirt and shorts hang like chainmail and every time I get into the car to try something, my seat covers groan.

J finds a way of amusing herself, I’ve copied movies onto my Tab and she starts watching one.

Still digging mud, I find there’s a hole under the left back wheel, the one that dug in once the vehicle righted itself. Bottom line is I try everything I know, which depending on whom you talk to, might not be much.

I’ve put rocks, I’ve placed sticks, bigger sticks and logs (remember the big log?), but we only get deeper.

Eventually around 10am I admit defeat: “J, I think we’re stuck, I can’t get us out of here, we need help,” I’m splattered and caked in mud, my clothes are like cardboard. What little protruding fingernails I had are gone, leaving splits and cracks. I have scabs under both feet, where I’ve trodden on sharp sticks or rocks. My guess is I look pretty wild and scary.

It’s been a long morning.

The storm clouds are building - in my mind, too. What do I do? Do I walk? The GPS says we’re only 7.8km from Robins by road.

Luckily we have water, about five litres and a litre of some homemade ginger beer.

We have food, too, so we’re not in any immediate trouble.

Probably a good idea to wait.

The hours pass, we can hear the jets going into and out of Vic Falls, but no other sounds. It’s mid-day, the right time to walk, if I walk. I discuss this with J - a mistake.

She’s a child and becomes upset, she doesn’t want me to walk, she’s afraid of what will happen if I do.

She’s right, of course. I can’t walk with her, that’s putting all our eggs into one basket.

If I walk alone, good chance I’ll be fine and nothing will happen. But, if there’s a problem, J will be on her own.

Will she be ok? Will someone find her? So, the answer is to wait... obviously!

To page 12

News & Views

4 March 2015

CXPRESS

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National budget implications to hit Knysna and Plett where it hurts Toll tariff hike kicks in

Coastal holiday towns like Plettenberg Bay and Knysna are in for a rough ride after Finance minister Nhlanhla Nene’s budget announcements revealed several changes that could negatively affect some of the region’s economic sectors - YOLANDÉ STANDER reports

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CONOMIST and Rhodes University economics professor Hugo Nel said the increases in fuel and road accident levies would definitely impact the area’s tourism sector - one of the main economic drivers in the region.

Nene announced last week that the fuel levy would increase by 30.5c, while the road accident levy would rise by 50c. He also made an unpopular move by increasing personal income tax by 1% on annual salaries of above R181,900 - something experts believe will further eat away at taxpayers’ disposable income.

“The first place where people start compensating for that, is cutting back on luxuries including holidays.

This is bad news for holiday towns relying on seasonal tourism,” Nel said.

Plett Business Chamber vice-chairman Barries Ferreira said the increase in fuel costs would have a further impact on the region as its location was a substantial distance from major business centres.

“Most of our retailers get their products via road

freight. This is going to become more expensive, which in turn means more expensive products. So, tourists are likely to spend less.”

He added that most holidaymakers drive to Plett and Knysna over the festive season - the area’s biggest economic boost. “This will also become more expensive with fuel increases and tourists might think twice before travelling far on holiday.”

Ferreira said Nene’s news did not bode well for the area’s property market either, with massive transfer-duty increases, especially in the region’s core market segment of luxury or holiday homes.

Nene announced that home buyers in the market for properties between R1.75-million and R2.25-million would have to fork out R45,000 and 8% of the property’s value from April. Last year this amounted to R37,000 and 8% of the home’s value.

The biggest increase will be in property values above R2.25-million. Not only will buyers have to pay R85,000 in transfer duties, but also 11% of the home’s value.

“In places like Plett, most

houses are above R1.5-million, so it will definitely have an impact. People will think twice before buying homes here,” Ferreira said.

Seeff Knysna franchisee Billy Rautenbach agreed.

“Consider for example that on properties priced between R5-million and R10-million, the increase amounts to an effective 22-30%. On a R5million property sale, the increase will amount to about R70,500 from R317,500 to R387,500 and on a R10-million property sale, to about R220,500 from R717,000 to R937,500,” Rautenbach said.

“This will definitely affect the top-end areas in premium coastal areas. Certainly, the higher transfer duty at the upper end of the market is regrettable given that we are in the midst of a two-year growth spurt despite the subdued economic conditions.”

Nel, however, added that despite some unpopular decisions, Nene had the bigger economic picture in mind when he delivered his maiden budget speech.

“This is not good for small towns like Plett and Knysna, but Nene had only two op-

Empty safe precipitates Plettenberg Bay farm thieves’ departure Yolandé Stander

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OLICE are looking for two men involved in an armed robbery on a farm near Knysna Elephant Park outside Plettenberg Bay on Saturday February 28.

The suspects entered the home of a 62-year-old woman, who was busy in her kitchen, at about 9:15am on Saturday.

Police spokesman Captain Bernadine Steyn said one of the suspects had been armed

with a handgun, while the other had pepper spray.

Plettenberg Bay Crime Prevention Association (PBCPA) operations director Otto Olivier said the men demanded the woman opened the safe on the property.

“But when they saw that the safe was empty, the suspects grabbed other items like cellphones and left,” Olivier said.

Steyn added the men also demanded cash, jewellery, and laptops.

“The suspects took four cellular phones and fled on foot. They are still at large,” Steyn said, adding that no shots had been fired and no one sustained injuries.

Olivier said the woman’s husband was on the premises during the incident, but was not aware that they were being robbed.

He added the two men were dressed in blue overalls and black balaclavas at the time of the robbery.

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tions to counter SA’s slow economic growth rate. He could either borrow more or increase personal income tax.

“It is very important for the economy to grow faster as this means more businesses, more jobs, and ultimately a larger tax base.”

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OLL tariffs on national roads will be adjusted in line with the Consumer Price Index (CPI) on March 7. In our neighbourhood, that means driving to PE through the Tsitsikamma plaza will now cost R43 for light vehicles, rather than the R40 charged up to now.

Adjustments occur annually and are based on the preceding 12 months’ CPI.

The average CPI adjustment for Sanral-managed toll tariffs is 6.017%.

“We use the inflation rate as a guide, as we do not want to increase road usage costs beyond what is reasonable,” explained Sanral CEO Nazir Alli.

Visit www.cxpress.co.za for a full breakdown of toll adjustments effective from March 7.

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News & Views

4 March 2015

Suggested armaments to safeguard Plett’s ATMs and outlying areas Mike Kantey

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F R E S H

ECENTLY, I was coopted onto the Board of the Plettenberg Bay Crime Prevention Association (PBCPA), an important group of top private-sector security companies, municipal law enforcement and neighbourhood watch members under newly-elected chairperson Bruce Richardson.

Our major purpose is to narrow the options for criminals to operate in the Bitou municipal area, with a particular focus on the CBD and surrounding suburbs.

Perhaps because we have been so effective in limiting criminal activities in builtup areas, there has been a noticeable shift to the outlying parts (such as Harkerville and Keurboomstrand) - a point which I shall come back to.

On the very next day following the first meeting of the new PBCPA Board, a thief managed to snatch a credit card from under the nose of a German tourist at the FNB ATM on Plett’s Main Street.

There was much consternation and running around, but to no avail: the thief got away cleanly, in front of any number of witnesses.

This got me thinking once again about security in Plett.

First of all, it became abundantly clear (not for the first time) that, as one of my colleagues in the PBCPA mentioned, there is no such thing as “car guards”.

The disorderly rabble that normally displaces the kind ladies of old, the halt and the lame, have no intention of guarding anything, except those unsuspecting folk who reward them for their persistence in helping us reverse into oncoming traffic.

Once upon a time, there was talk of a public meeting in February on this subject, but one doubts whether the public counts for much in any major decisions that affect local lives anymore.

I for one shall continue at least to demand proper IDs from those whose dress-code

is dubious and leave the rest to the Municipal Law Enforcement officers when they grace us with their presence.

FNB management was very helpful in describing the perpetrator as per the video screen inside, but said their hands were tied (metaphorically speaking) when it came to dealing with the absent “guard” outside, who had conveniently retired to the toilet prior to the incident.

This “guard” apparently had no combat training and carried no weapon whatsoever, so in the unlikely event that she would have put in an appearance when the villain actually showed up at the same time, we have to assume zero protection at ATM machines.

This means, in turn, that tourists, citizens and clients of the four major banks must make their own security ar-

OBITUARY

Ode to David Mostert A man of might A man of truth Whose heart was filled with light A rare soul, a joyful man, in whom all took delight The mountains were his one true home A mountain man was he He watched the eagles fly above Like them, he too, lived free He never hurt another man They’d call on him when in need He’d always give, for giving was he Never a man of greed We all live our lives believing Tomorrow we’ll do this or that But tomorrow isn’t here my friend So take off your believing hat

Goodbye my Cuz, my beloved friend You were so kind to me I’ll remember you when the sun is high And the eagles are flying free I love you and I miss you and I treasure your memory For a thousand men could’ve learned from you What it means to live truly free

rangements when visiting these no-go ATM areas.

I would suggest a reliable brace of bullet-proofed jackets and AK-47s, which are less likely to jam in a firefight, with an RPG or 50mm Browning for that moment when the getaway car takes flight.

As far as Harkerville is concerned, note that the road stoppages make any mobile assistance impossible, so you may need an Alouette or Huey helicopter service with on-board cannon, doubling up as Casevac for those innocent farmworkers caught in the cross-fire.

In the meantime, we shall be rebuilding neighbourhood and business watches once again, so please contact me at mike.kantey@gmail. com if you want to play your ‘armless part...

You are not gone, you’re just asleep I’ll visit you in my dreams I’ll remember the whiskey jar The Landy, and the road that had no tar!

To the home of your dreams, the land of your love The place you loved to roam Now your loving Pauline’s remarkable strength Can rest knowing you’re home Cnn"o{"nqxg."[qwt"Ew|"Fgdk CHEERS, MAN OF MIGHT: David Mostert, pictured here with his wife Pauline, passed away peacefully on February 20 after a long illness. He will always be missed.

News & Views

4 March 2015

Sharyn honoured to be one of the Route’s top Instagram boffins

CXPRESS nagged the Garden Route’s most famous Instagrammer, SHARYN HODGES of ShowMe Plett, and then nagged and nagged some more (she’s particularly humble and rather shy, you see) until she agreed to share a little bit of what makes her tick, er, click with such spectacular results

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Z<"Yjgtg"cpf"yjgp"cpf" jqy"fkf"kv"cnn"dgikpA SH: I would say my love of photography developed in 2010 when I worked on a cruise liner for a few months.

Fellow crewmembers nicknamed me “The Tourist” as I was always first to get off the ship wherever we docked.

I ended up exploring the streets of Barcelona, beaches of the Cayman Islands, the antiquity of Florence. My camera was my constant ‘sidekick’ and went wherever I did - I drenched myself in the history of Europe and wanted to capture every beautiful scene, every sunrise and ancient landscape, so that I didn’t forget a single thing I experienced.

EZ<"Cpf"yjgp"fkf"vjg"Kpu/ vcitco"dwi"dkvgA SH: I only got hooked on Instagram when I went to my first InstaWalk during last year’s Knysna Oyster Festival. Here I met @scrumpyjackson and, as they say, the rest is history!

I was really surprised that he knew who I was, but the Oyster Festival coincided with my Plett 0731 Project, which he was following!

(Turn to page 15 of the July 16 edition at www.cxpress. co.za to see some of Sharyn’s images and to learn more about this particular project.)

EZ<"Uq"vjcv"jckngf"vjg"uvctv" vq"c"{qwpi"dwv"gzvtgogn{"gz/ ekvkpi"Kpuvcitco"ectggt0"Ku"kv" gxgp" rquukdng" vq" pwodgt" vjg" dguv"dkvuA SH: There have been many amazing highlights so far, from being featured on most of the biggest South African Instagram Accounts to becoming a ManIger for the Garden Route. But the highlight I cherish most was being featured in the December 2014 edition of Kulula’s inflight magazine.

SHINY HAPPY PEOPLE: Sharyn is at her happiest when she has sea sand between her toes and the sea breeze in her hair - and her camera’s most always by her side - Photo: Christy Strever

Mwnwoc did a beautiful sixpage spread about the Instagram culture in South Africa.

The article listed some of my all-time favourite Instagrammers across the country, including the uber-talented @ garethpon, @deancothill and @scrumpyjackson.

I was introduced as one of the Garden Route Instagrammers to follow and I was so honoured (and humbled) to be featured next to some of my best-loved ‘grammers.

There is so much that I like about Instagram; not only is it a great way to share your photos, but also to discover and find like-minded people, who have similar photographic styles.

Instagram is intuitive to use and you don’t need any fancy camera equipment, just bucketsful of passion and heart. InstaWalks have introduced me to some amazing people along the way - people that I consider now to be best friends.

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COVER GIRL: Among numerous images used in CXPRESS over the years counts Sharyn’s seasonal cover of Her Deepness Dr Sylvia Earle - the other magazine is Kuluma, the Kulula inflight mag that featured Sharyn’s work in its December edition

SH: I am very fortunate to live in Plett - it’s an Instagrammer’s paradise! What is there not to love? We have four seasons in one day, and the most amazing cloud formations.

We have beaches, rivers, the lagoon, whales, dolphins, hiking trails, and mountains.

I have never seen a more beautiful place in my life and I am at my happiest when I have sea sand between my toes, the sea breeze in my wild hair and my “Lion” by my side.

EZ<" Cp{" yqtfu" qh" ykufqo" {qw‚f"nkmg"vq"ujctg"ykvj"ycp/ pcdg"flitcoogtuA SH: My advice to aspiring Instagrammers and photographers would be to take photos

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every day - it doesn’t matter of what. Use your natural surroundings and look for interesting angles, shadows and textures that will give your photo that little bit of sparkle.

And follow photographers with similar interests on Instagram; then go back in six months’ time to see how your photography has improved.

If you would like to join us on our next InstaWalk, follow @igersgardenroute and watch out for our InfoGrams.

See you there! *[qw" ecp" ocmg" eqpvcev" xkc" Vykvvgt" cv" Ujct{paJqfigu."

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About Instagram

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portmanteau of ‘instant telegram’, Instagram is an online mobile photo-sharing, video-sharing and social networking service that enables its users to take pictures and videos, and share them on a variety of social networking platforms, such as Facebook, Twitter, Tumblr and Flickr.

A distinctive feature is that it confines photos to a square shape, similar to Kodak Instamatic and Polaroid images, in contrast to the 4:3 aspect ratio typically used by mobile device cameras.

Users can also apply digital filters to their images.

The maximum duration for Instagram videos is 15 seconds.

Instagram was created by Kevin Systrom and Mike Krieger, and launched in

October 2010.

The service rapidly gained popularity, with over 100-million active users as of April 2012 and over 300-million as of December 2014.

It is distributed through the Apple App Store, Google Play, and Windows Phone Store.

Support for the application is available for iPhone, iPad, iPod Touch, and Android handsets, while third-party Instagram apps are available for Blackberry 10 and Nokia-Symbian Devices.

The service was acquired

by Facebook in April 2012 for approximately US$1billion in cash and stock. In 2013, Instagram grew by 23% while Facebook, as the parent company, only grew by 3%. *Ykmkrgfkc+

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News & Views

4 March 2015

Bitou mayor endorses the vital work of Adopt A Swimmer T HE Annual Municipal Award Ceremony was held at Piesang Valley community hall on January 29, when 67 students and 12 NPOs were awarded grants in aid. Adopt A Swimmer (AAS) was one of the organisations that received an award.

Said CEO Louise Auersperg after the ceremony: “I am privileged and humbled to have been selected and am most grateful to the mayor and his team. Their acknowledgement has enabled me to enrol more of our vulnerable children into this programme, which teaches them the valuable life skill of swimming.”

Plett is the birthplace of Adopt A Swimmer in 2012 and it was officially registered as an NPO in March 2013. It is run in George by Erica Menton - an AAS member who is also a Paralympics coach - “and,” explained Louise, “together it is our aim and ambition to grow Adopt A Swimmer nationwide”.

Since its inception, four students have joined the Nippers development programme run

WALKING THE ROAD TOGETHER: Mayor Memory Booysen and Adopt A Swimmer’s Louise Auersperg at the Municipal Award Ceremony where Plett’s first citizen pledged his support for the programme

by Chas Frazier, and nine youngsters have joined Plett’s Micro Nippers, with another two kids moving on to U/12 and U/14 respectively.

“Swimming has given our children confidence, integrity and self-worth,” said Louise.

“Thank you to Plett Surf for its sponsorship, Nipper officer Chris Fermor and administrator Gerhard van Huyssteen for fundraising and support, and to Jane Donald and her team for helping with transport to swimming and Nippers practice.”

She also thanked Naneri Nel, who is doing her community service with AAS and has spent endless hours as a safety officer and assistant in the pool, and wished Justin, Dylan, Kelly, Kamva and Pina all the best for their first Micro Nipper champs on March 7.

“Plett and the larger Bitou community always manage to find ways to generate and distribute funds to the many life skills projects in our Bay,” Louise concluded. “It is an honour to now have the mayor and his council walk the road with us.”

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The rewards of an engineering career

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HERE has been significant coverage in the media recently about the desperate need to improve the country’s infrastructure. To achieve this, more engineers are needed in the private and public sector, says Jan Palm - one of SA’s most experienced engineers in the field of solid waste management.

According to a recent Moneyweb article, of 511,564 enrolments in engineering disciplines from 1998 to 2010, a shocking 14% graduated.

“It is critical for school learners to develop an understanding of maths at primary school level, otherwise it becomes increasingly difficult in high school. Even if learners do not study engineering, these subjects are an essential skill to master for most occupations,” explains Palm.

Engineers are known to be logical, task orientated, resourceful and analytical with functionality at the centre of it all. The profession optimally designs habitats based on how it interacts with the

natural environment.

“Engineers design the infrastructure required to uphold day-to-day activities.

Especially in South Africa, engineers have to ensure that designs are sustainable, appropriate, practical, affordable and maintainable with the country’s unique resources in mind. Currently there seems to be a worldwide shortage of civil engineers,” says Palm.

Boasting many years of experience as an engineer in the waste industry, he is also vice-president of the Institute of Waste Management of SA (IWMSA) - a nonprofit organisation comprising a body of dedicated professionals in their respective fields, who give freely and voluntarily of their time and expertise to effectively educate, promote and further the science and practice of waste management.

“There are exciting career prospects for young engineers, especially in the waste industry. The new landfill barrier system, which is the

lining between the waste body and the underlying soil, boosted the fields of geosynthetic and geotechnical engineering.

“These fields are highly technical and very rewarding. Engineers are also required to design recycling facilities to optimise the flow of materials and transport routes,” continues Palm.

There are currently a lot of ventures and technologies in the waste management industry where engineers play a pivotal part. These include sustainable energy initiatives, alternative technologies such as Waste to Energy and Landfill Gas to Energy, as well as the Green Building drive.

“For learners who want to embark on an engineering career, my advice would be to stay focussed and study hard. You will enjoy the fruit of your labour for the rest of your life as engineering is a very rewarding and satisfying career,” concludes Palm.

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Notice Board

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T’S time for the Plett Animal Welfare Services (PAWS) car boot sale on Sunday Octej" :, from 9am to 1pm at The Market Square. Sell as much as you like for only R100 per boot, or come and browse for bargains that you’re sure to find.

It’s all for a perfect PAWS cause (see the breakdown on page 7 for background on the finances required for this service). Call Margie on 082 551 6301 for information.

Book now for the sixth annual Knysna Literary Festival from Octej" 3:/44, its exciting line-up of writers talks, workshops and tasting experiences better than ever before. Visit www.knysnalit eraryfestival.co.za and see the advert on page 12 of this edition for more info.

At a loss about what to do with already-read books cluttering up your bookshelves? Plett’s Friends of

the Library would be very grateful for any donations of good books and current magazines. Says the charity’s Di Butlin: “We restock Bitou’s libraries with the donated books, replace tatty books and sell whatever is left over. To date, we have placed thousands of books on the shelves of local libraries.” If anyone has books for this good cause, please contact Di on 082 569 2571 to arrange for collection.

Business

4 March 2015

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Sure, but where do you find a property below R750k?* The tax proposals regime announced in last week’s National Budget signalled difficult times ahead, but Finance minister Nhlanhla Nene also announced new tax breaks that will ease the burden on the already strained working and middle class income earners - this report from PROPERTY24

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HILE the super-rich will pay more on property transfer pricing, the minister delivered good news to citizens who purchase property worth less than R750,000.

“The rates and brackets for transfer duties on the sale of property will be adjusted to provide relief to middle-

Investor Focus

income households. The new rates eliminate transfer duty on properties below R750,000, while the rate on properties above R2.25-million will increase,” he said.

The new rates will only apply to property acquired on or after March 1 by any person, including companies, close corporations and trusts. In

HE conventional thinking behind a diversified portfolio of assets is to hold various investments that show different return patterns. In other words, the investor must believe that when equities reduce in value, then some other assets like bonds, property or cash will appreciate, or hold their value at least.

An easy example of this is when rising interest rates have a negative effect on equities.

In this scenario, one should have a large cash element in the portfolio as cash will both hold its value and provide a

growing income stream.

It is also possible to diversify the equities within the portfolio, holding both value-based and growth-orientated shares.

Using long bonds to diversify a portfolio of assets can be dangerous, as falling interest rates normally produce rising equity markets while the value of long bonds will rise as interest rates fall.

In South Africa with our relatively high inflation rate, cash can often offer negative returns, i.e. when the rates offered are below the inflation rate. So where possible, one

Lowdown on bucks needed to keep Bitou pets healthy

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HE team at Plett Animal Welfare Services (PAWS) provides the fundamental function of a primary care service to the many Bitou animals suffering neglect and abuse.

The 2014 facts and figures below serve as interesting background to inform the local community on its achievements over the past year and ongoing financial challenges.

• R724,000: Total operating expenses including kennel management and maintenance, vets fees, salaries, administration and insurance, motor vehicle expenses, security, rent, and municipal services • R60,400: Average monthly costs • R25,000: Average contribution from PAWS Second-hand Shop (after municipal services) • R35,000: Average monthly amount to be covered by fundraising... EVERY month! • R388,000: Total vets’ fees (including sterilisations and other medical interventions) • R342,000: Cost of sterilisations (when still covered

by Lotto grant) • R46,000: Other medical interventions and health services • R1,500R2,000: Cost to PAWS of sterilisation, inoculation, microchip for adopted animals • R500: Adoption fee • 4,000 animals dipped in community • 533 animals referred to vets for treatment • 422 animals neutered and sterilised • 100 kilometres: Area serviced by

* Justin Kruger of Technical Support at DiaMatrix commented: “Where are you going to get a property for un-

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

Diversified portfolios

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summary, the following was announced in the Budget: • A 0% transfer duty rate will be charged for a property acquired for less than R750,000; • A 3% transfer duty rate will be charged for property worth between R750,001 and R1,250,000; • For properties from

R1,250,001 to R1,750,000 R15,000 plus 6% of the property value above R1,250,000; • Properties between R1,750,001 and R2,250,000 R45,000 plus 8% of the property value above R1,750,000; • Prowperties over R2,250,001 - R85,000 plus 11% of the value above R2,250,000. *UCpgyu0iqx0|c+

PAWS inspector Robert Ruiters • 82 dogs and cats adopted • 62 lost and found animals processed • 14 animals fostered • Three community spay days • Three street collections • Eight PAWS committee members.

Funds allocated by Lotto exclusively for neutering are now depleted and the committee will apply for a new grant, while hoping for a grant-in-aid from Bitou Municipality.

PAWS has also embarked, if you’ll excuse the pun, on an educational programme in collaboration with Lunchbox Theatre - the play Life of a Dog has been performed at four schools in Plett *ugg" rke" qp"r0";+ while brochures have been printed and an educational video is being produced for use in the community.

Tracy van der Byl and Robert Ruiters are undergoing training for certification by the SA Veterinary Association to enable them to perform procedures such as vaccination and euthanasia.

The committee thanks everyone for helping them give a voice to Bitou’s animals, as well as Roger Davis and his hard-working team at the PAWS Second-hand Shop for making a significant contribution towards its funds.

Contact Tracy on 083 287 9917 or at pawskennels@ hotmail.co.za for additional information about PAWS.

should use cash as a parking place for excess capital until a better opportunity arises.

Global diversification can be an attractive alternative to the traditional thinking.

Economies and currencies throughout the world are often way out of sync.

The current situation could well present an interesting example. While the US$ is having an exceptionally strong run, the Euro is particularly weak. So for many South Africans now may appear to be the wrong time to diversify offshore.

However, the Euro has declined against the Rand from ±14.65 a year ago to the current ±13.25. At the same time, European equities are trading at attractive levels compared to their global peers.

An offshore diversification is also important if one considers the long-term performance of the Rand. The last decade has seen our currency decline by 25% against the Euro, 34% against the British Pound and 35% against the US$.

To many South Africans, investing “offshore” is seen

as plunging into an unknown and very expensive world.

We have strong memories of exchange control regulations, hiding monies offshore and then being ripped off by ridiculously high fees.

These fees were virtually a form of blackmail as the asset managers knew they were illegal funds.

Today, you can diversify using ETFs traded on the JSE Passive unit trusts, where you can buy almost any global index, or by actually moving funds to a sound global asset manager.

Do not look at the Rand only through the Rand/US$ exchange rate, and you will suddenly realise how wide your options are while being pleasantly surprised at how strong the Rand is currently, particularly against most emerging market currencies and against the Euro.

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der 750K?” Some other comments included these wise words from Remax Finest Alberton sales associate Wayne Johnstone: “The Real Estate Market has just started to recover from the crash in 2008-10.

“The transfer duty above R2.25-million is rough but I

am concerned more about the R1.25-million to R1.75-million bracket, which is considered middle+ income earners having to pay all the additional transfer duty. Remember transfer costs and bond registration fees have still to be added. Scary amount of money to pay in cash…”

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Interval

4 March 2015

I’ve just started a band called 999 Megabytes. We haven’t done a gig yet...

Timeless truths • In my many years I have come to a conclusion that one useless man is a shame, two is a law firm, and three or more is a government. /" Lqjp"Cfcou • Suppose you were an idiot. And suppose you were a member of government. But then I repeat myself. /"Octm" Vyckp • I contend that for a nation to try to tax itself into prosperity is like a man standing in a bucket and trying to lift himself up by the handle. /"Ykp/ uvqp"Ejwtejknn • A government which robs Peter to pay Paul can always depend on the support of Paul. /"Igqtig"Dgtpctf"Ujcy • Foreign aid might be defined as a transfer of money from poor people in rich countries to rich people in poor countries. /"Fqwincu"Ec/ ug{."encuuocvg"qh"Dknn"Enkpvqp" cv"Igqtigvqyp"Wpkxgtukv{ • Giving money and power to government is like giv-

ing whiskey and car keys to teenage boys. /"RL"Q‚Tqwtmg."

Ekxkn"Nkdgtvctkcp • Government is the great fiction through which everybody endeavours to live at the expense of everybody else. /" Htgfgtke" Dcuvkcv." Htgpej" geqpqokuv"*3:23/3:72+ • If you think health care is expensive now, wait until you see what it costs when it’s free! /"RL"Q‚Tqwtmg • In general, the art of government consists of taking as much money as possible from one part of the citizens to give to the other. /"Xqnvcktg"*3986+ • Just because you do not take an interest in politics doesn’t mean politics won’t take an interest in you. /"Rgtk/ engu"*652"DE+ • The government is like a baby’s alimentary canal, with a happy appetite at one end and no responsibility at the other. /"Tqpcnf"Tgcicp • The only difference between a tax man and a taxi-

Animal gifts

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EACHER: “Children, what does the chicken give you?”

Student: “Eggs!”

Teacher: “Very good!

Now what does the pig

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give you?”

Student: “Bacon!”

Teacher: “Great! And tell me, what does the cow give you?”

Student: “Homework!”

Down on the farm…

big city lawyer went duck hunting in rural North Wairarapa, New Zealand. He shot and dropped a bird, but it fell into a farmer’s field on the other side of a fence.

As the lawyer climbed over the fence, an elderly farmer drove up on his tractor and asked him what he was doing.

The litigator responded: “I shot a duck and it fell in this field, and now I’m going to retrieve it.”

The old farmer replied: “This is my property and you are not coming over here.”

The indignant lawyer said: “I am one of the best trial attorneys in New Zealand and if you don’t let me get that duck, I’ll sue you and take everything you own.”

The old farmer smiled and said: “Apparently, you don’t know how we settle disputes in North Wairarapa. We settle small disagreements like this with the ‘Three Kick Rule.’”

“What is the ‘Three Kick Rule’?” the lawyer asked.

“Well, because the dispute occurs on my land, I get to go first. I kick you three times

and then you kick me three times and so on back and forth until someone gives up,” the farmer replied.

The attorney quickly thought about the proposed contest and decided he could easily take the old codger. He agreed to abide by the local custom.

The farmer slowly climbed down from the tractor and walked up to the attorney.

His first kick planted the toe of his heavy steel-toed work boot into the lawyer’s groin and dropped him to his knees.

His second kick to the midriff sent the lawyer’s last meal gushing from his mouth.

The lawyer was on all fours when the farmer’s third kick to his rear end, sent him facefirst into a fresh cow pie.

The lawyer summoned every bit of his will and remaining strength, and very slowly managed to get to his feet.

Wiping his face with the arm of his jacket, he said: “Okay, you old codger. Now it’s my turn… ” The old farmer smiled and said: “Nah, I give up. You can have the duck.”

Q: Where do you see yourself in five years?

A: I don’t know, I don’t have 2020 vision.

dermist is that the taxidermist leaves the skin. /"Octm"Vyckp • What this country needs are more unemployed politicians. /"Gfyctf"Ncping{."ctv/ kuv"*3;4:/3;;7+ • A government big enough

to give you everything you want is strong enough to take everything you have. /"Vjqo/ cu"Lghhgtuqp • We hang the petty thieves and appoint the great ones to public office. /"Cguqr

Photo: Brian Madeley

Photo: Nina Zillah Bekink

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People, places & events PLETT ON 90 TOWNS ITINERARY THIS SATURDAY: Well-known South African singer Natalie Chapman undertook a hugely ambitious tour last year when performing 90 concerts on 90 consecutive days in 90 different towns, from January to April 2014, covering 13,500kms across the country. Her objective was to reach one person in each town to encourage survivors of violent and sexual crimes to speak out about their experiences while raising awareness and funds to help women, men and children who have suffered as a result of these crimes. She was awarded a Lead SA Hero Award for her efforts. Natalie has now embarked on this year’s tour and the Plett community can share her message of hope and inspiration at Plett Bowling Club on Saturday March 7 at 6:30pm. Well-known Plett Rotarian Ruby Chetty is hosting her. Tickets at R140 include a three-course buffet by LM in Plett and can be bought from Ruby Kiss’s at The Market Square or call 082 491 9333 for more information.

GEEZERS SHOW - AND LOSE! - THE WAY: Last weekend’s inaugural Geezer Rage saw a gaggle of party animals rocking up at VIP Superclub and Flashbacks in Main Street on Friday and Saturday nights, with an alimentary interlude in the form of a spitbraai at Rod & Reel slap bang in the middle of proceedings. Major congrats to Anton Muller - the dude sporting a shower cap at top right - and his able team for this first of what’s sure to become a legendary Plett affair. This year’s party served many purposes, not least of these doubling up as 40th birthday bash for Tweak Design guru Renée Bull, pictured at right with beau Terrence ‘The Merry’ Nel. Many more images, thanks to ace shooter Sharyn Hodges (see story on page 5) can be found in the ShowMe Plett galleries.

OLD AND YOUNG GIVE EVERY DOG ITS DAY: Proceeds from last year’s Bitou Amateur Theatre Society (BATS) production, the hilarious ‘Old Actors Never Die’, were used to fund an educational programme at local primary schools. So in a powerful joining of forces BATS, PAWS and Lunchbox Theatre collaborated to expose Bitou youngsters to the most important parts of ensuring their pets are happy and healthy: the play ‘Life of a Dog’ portrays the value of giving food, shelter, care, love, love and more love. A brochure, posters and colour-in books have been printed to reinforce this important message. In the pic, kids from Harkerville Primary School marvel at the Lunchbox actors and awesome puppet dog, ‘Waffie’. Said teacher Chantal Daries: ‘The show was on learners’ level and it connects with the curriculum. The children enjoyed learning how to care for animals and they can now take the information into the community.’

HIGHLAND FLING: A day chequered with colours and sounds were enjoyed by all who participated and spectated at last weekend’s Knysna Celtic Festival.

Clockwise from the top, Cape Town’s six-yearold Jessica Munro impresses during the Scottish dancing competition; ladies of the Knysna & Districts Pipe Band drumming it home; and members of the 1 Medical YET ANOTHER ROYAL OVATION AT OULAND: At the conclusion of Battalion Pipe a recital of opera arias and songs from musicals, entitled ‘Tea with Band of Durban Puccini’ and held at Ouland Royale on Plett’s Airport Road on February in KwaZulu-Natal Photo: Bob Hopkin 22, the venue’s Wilja Reitz is flanked by soprano Zanne Stapelberg at march down left and pianist Elna van der Merwe. - Timothy Twidle Main Street.

Photo: Timothy Twidle

CATCH THE MASTER ONE LAST TIME: Gary Thomas will perform one show only at The Grand Café & Rooms in Plett’s Main Street on Sunday afternoon March 8 at 3pm. Says organiser Candice Ludick: ‘This chance appearance in our town is part of Gary’s final South African tour - a retrospective on his last seven years of music, including work off his previous albums - before moving indefinitely to Europe, where he will embark on a summer concert tour.’ Rolling Stone magazine described his music as ‘Left-field indie-folk mastery’. Call 074 113 0692 or email candiceludick@gmail.com and visit www.facebook.com/ events/1567051683534508 for further information.

4 March 2015

Photo: Gigi Lewis

Social Scene

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Feature

4 March 2015

Love the home you live in Live in a house for a while and it becomes easy to feel dissatisfied with the décor and layout…

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E spend our time concentrating on flaws and defects and imagine ourselves in the picture-perfect homes that we see in magazines. A home is a place to set down your roots, raise a family, and grow old in - which is why falling in love again with your home is vital.

Here are 10 ways to be happy at home: • Stop resenting what your house isn’t and start appreciating what it is. It only takes a few special things in a room to make it memorable but we continue to worry that we should buy more impressive stuff to fill our rooms with.

• Respect it enough not to clutter it up with things you don’t really like or need. How you treat your living space tells other people how they should view it, so groom the heck out of your house. Show it some love. It may never

PAINT WITH FEELING: Having fun while painting the wall will make you love your house a little more

be a model home, but it can be one where people feel at home.

• Have a comfortable chair in a quiet corner where you can read and relax, or a room or space to where you can escape.

• Turn the TV off and turn on your favourite music.

• Keep a vase of fresh cut flowers or a floral arrangement in your home.

• Try eating dinner by candlelight, with music, for no special reason. And use your best dishes.

• Create character where there isn’t any. Some luxurious homes can feel cold and empty because the owners don’t put any of themselves into it, whereas smaller, modest houses that are clearly loved by their owners can make

you feel right at home.

• Surround yourself with your favourite ‘happy colours’, whether they are trendy or not.

• Display something from your childhood that you treasure; objects you love - things that make you feel good.

• Don’t try to replicate the look of a model home.

Strive to create spaces that exude warmth, love, comfort, and peace.

Focus on those few things that make you feel really happy and forget the rest. Work at wanting what you have rather than having what you want.

Whether you decorate with second-hand bargains or priceless antiques really doesn’t matter. The difference between a boring home and a beautiful home isn’t how much you spend. It’s what you do with what you have. www.home-dzine.co.za

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4 March 2015

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Seven ways to update your home’s exterior ‘Homeowners who want to increase the resale value of their property must maintain the exterior and keep it in pristine condition, but this does not necessarily have to leave a dent in their pockets, says CEO of RE/MAX Southern Africa ADRIAN GOSLETT

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HILE certain improvements to your home may require the assistance of a professional contractor, most exterior updates are inexpensive and can be completed by homeowners themselves.

Here are a few pointers to consider when looking to improving the exterior appearance of your home: Keep it clean This is one improvement where the homeowner will get a 100% return on investment. It won’t cost anything aside from a few rubbish bags and some sweat, but the impact will create a favourable impression on a potential buyer.

Refuse lying around the garden creates a negative impression, distracting the buyer from features the home has to offer. Rake up leaves and remove rubbish or materials that don’t belong there.

Light it up Make your home welcoming by illuminating the outside space with exterior lighting. If the home already has exterior lighting but the fixtures are dated or in need of maintenance, replace them with new contemporary designs that bring the home into a modern era and give it a fresh look.

Update house numbers

There is no reason why the house numbers and post box can’t be functional while still adding to the overall look of the home. It might only be a relatively small change, but it can have a big impact.

The key to choosing the right house number is a legible font in a material and finish that complements the house’s style.

A landscaped garden The appeal of a home will increase greatly if the garden is established, well-maintained and landscaped. Make sure the lawn is mowed, the hedges and shrubs are trimmed and all weeds have been pulled out.

If the garden needs more, a professional landscaper can assist in the planning and execution of more complex improvements.

Pave the way Make sure that driveway paving is in good condition by filling any cracks or replacing broken bricks. Remove any weeds that may be growing through the paving. If it is a concrete driveway, clean away any stains and reseal it on a regular basis.

A new coat Fill any small cracks in the walls and give the home a fresh coat of paint to breathe new life into its

A Yard full of treasures!

For collectors of unique pieces of furnuture - from antiques, collectables, to home-made items - a visit to The Yard in Plett’s Piesang Valley is a must. Willie Gouws, above, and his team also buy and restore vintage furniture.

And to top it off, you can enjoy a delicious meal while browsing this unique local gem - see the advert below for further details.

look. There is no comparison between peeling and bubbling old paint and a fresh layer here and there.

Painting or updating garage doors will also add value and greatly improve the appeal of your home.

A garage door can make up as much as 30% of the exterior of the home, so it is a large portion of what the buyer will see first.

Get a handle on it A great way to spruce up the look of a home’s exterior is to replace the front door. However, this can be a costly exercise depending on the size or style of the door required.

A cheaper and just as effective alternative is to just replace the door handle.

This is often the most important accent on the door and by replacing the handle the entire door can have a new look and feel, especially if the handle is outdated and tarnished.

The home’s curb value is very important as this will be the buyer’s first impression of the property, and as the saying goes, first impressions last, so make them count.

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Travel

4 March 2015

Rescue from Big Tom’s Loop (cont.)

From page 2 The GPSs (both of them - I have one on my Tab, too) say we are south of Robins Tower, so I get J to stand on the roof to see if she can see it. Perhaps if she can, we can signal using the stainless steel oven dish.

But she sees nothing, just trees, even though she looks in all directions. I dare not climb on the roof myself, I’m not sure it’s built strongly enough to handle my ample body.

Just amazingly frustrating, boring, sitting here. Other than the odd bathroom call, it’s sitting in the cab, or the camper back. I left the camp chairs in camp, so even sitting in the camper back is uncomfortable.

No radio reception, J listening to her music, but I’m just champing, looking in the rear view mirror regularly, in the vain hope that someone comes along. Not much chance, but one can always hope.

I start hooting an SOS call: short, long, short. You never know, someone might hear.

But nothing, not even game.

Evening comes, as does the thunder, lightning and rain.

The puddle gets deeper. We adjourn to the back, create some food from tinned baked beans, smoked mussels and whatever, and as the sun sets we get ready for bed.

Darkness comes about 7pm. I wait for full darkness, when anyone in camp should be sitting around the braai and the night chorus has not yet reached its full orchestra.

Into the front, start the engine and turn on the lights and spot lights. Hoot an SOS and flash bright lights and spots for 10 minutes. It’s an almost desperate hope, but I have to

do it. But with the lightning and the thunder all around, there’s very little chance that anyone will hear or see us.

The night is very disturbed.

Neither of us sleeps well. It’s not only the situation, but the singing frogs. It’s hard to believe that flipping frogs can raise such a cacophony.

Listening from 2m above the puddle, I think I can make out around 50 different frog locations and at least three species, but who knows, could be 10, I just wish they would shut up!

But no other sounds during the night, no lions, hyenas nothing, frogs and insects only. Even after the sun rises, the frogs keep up their 100 tenors rendition. Trouble is, there’s no harmony.

The sky is clear, though we know that the clouds are going to build again once the heat of the day starts. We eat little, neither of us is hungry.

We discuss water rationing; we still have enough for the day and there’s always the puddle, so we can filter puddle water through a dish cloth, or something.

J is becoming a little emotional again. We’ve seen nothing of anyone for 24 hours. I remind her that we are safe and won’t starve or die of thirst. In fact, we can survive at least a week; we’ll be bored shirtless, but we’ll be ok.

The main thing is for someone to notice that we are missing, not in camp, then I’m sure we’ll be found. Family are expecting us in the Falls on the 24th (today’s the 23rd), so if we don’t show up, they’ll set the clockwork running.

At absolute worst, we’ll get to spend Christmas day in the bush. I must admit to wondering whether the camp

THUNDER OVER THE THORNS: One of the typical storms building over the treetops at Hwange

staff had noticed that we were not there, that the tent, camp chairs and braai were standing alone, forlorn in their unused state.

In other words, I was sort of steeling myself to being stuck for a few days.

At around 9am, I hear a small aircraft approaching, probably having just taken off from Vic Falls. I quickly think about how to attract the pilot’s attention. I jump on the tailgate, I click my Cree T6 torch three times (now I know what that annoying strobe is for).

I see the plane that looks like a four-seater, but they don’t see us, despite my 7-volt strobe, and fly on. J’s watching another movie in the cab and I try to catch up on some sleep in the back.

It’s too hot, so I move to the cab with J and stare often at the road ahead and behind.

Perhaps! Something small moves on the road, which is the first something we’ve seen moving on the road.

Slowly a guinea fowl approaches us. We watch silently, we’ve been sitting here for more than 24 hours

and we’ve seen nothing.

Head bobbing, slowly, cautiously, the bird moves towards the puddle, not more than 5m away from us. At the last moment, it’s startled by something, turns and skittles away, hurriedly. So much for watching game.

The time passes geologically slowly. I watch the storm clouds as they turn and change, but continuously ‘I have grown a little sour and negative with age... I can’t quite put my finger on it - a lack of expectation, I suppose... maybe if I expect more, I’ll get more’ develop. I shift in the seat, once, twice and again, over and over, swatting flies and swooshing wasps and hornets.

I hear something, faintly.

Get out of the cab and, yes, definitely a feint sound, getting louder. It’s a helicopter. I run round to the back, to the camper, get the torch, find the strobe and jump onto the tailgate. The sound is getting louder, from the west.

A small cream and green chopper appears, flying west to east. I jump up and down, flash my strobe, the chopper turns towards us, I shout to J: “They’ve found us!”

And they have.

The pilot flies over us, I signal that we’re stuck (swiping my finger across my throat); he waves, circles and comes over again. I hold my arms wide, then give the thumbs up, which he returns, before he flies off.

I can feel myself get lighter, as the weight slides off my shoulders. My mood lifts immediately and J is smiling.

I can still hear the chopper, it’s gone probably 750m away, but I can’t see it. A few minutes later, the sound intensifies again and the chopper returns, the pilot obviously looking for a landing spot.

He lands on the road, about 250m behind us and I tell J to stay in the car as I walk towards the aircraft.

I walk about 150 metres and a chap in khaki and green walks out of the bush to greet me (I find out later this is the Area Manager for Robins, Mr Midwel Kapesa).

He shakes my hand and says

that when we didn’t return to camp by 7pm last night, they became worried and started the process of searching for us. He explains that they were very concerned that we had water, food and that we were safe.

He apologetically says that they were unable to do much at night, with rain and mud, but that he had contacted Head Office in Harare this morning and been given permission to call in the chopper from Vic Falls to search for us.

He says that as their Land Rover is out of action he’ll have to send the tractor to pull us out. But, he says, the tractor tyres aren’t great, so maybe... I say I’m happy to wait, happy that at least they knew where we were. Mr Kapesa says he’ll send the tractor as soon as possible.

Just after 2pm I hear a strange sort of thunder that becomes louder. Within a few minutes a tractor comes around the bend at speed, with a driver and two rangers, one ranger balancing on each side.

Within a couple of minutes I’ve packed up the floor mats I tried under the wheels, the muddy shoes, the caked clothes and sealed up the camper roof.

By this time, the rangers have boots off and trousers rolled up and are immersed knee-deep in mud, rope tied to my tow-bar. The tractor hardly puffs and we’re out!

On the way back to Robins I find it hard keeping up with the tractor, a ranger hanging off each side, bobbing around like loose wing mirrors.

On the way back to camp J and I come to a decision: We’re not going to stay the night, we’re going to drive to the Falls and sleep in a house.

Arriving back at Robins, J demands a Coke - obviously a way of relieving the stress of the last 33 hours. So two Cokes from the camp shop it is.

Back at camp we find the tent, gas stove and chairs as

KILLING TIME ON THE TRACK: J whiles the hours away by crushing coins on a track bordering our campsite at Witput

we left them, but everything else has been put away in storage. The camp attendants bring it down to our site, explaining that our goods were stored away for safety.

Our dirty washing has been washed and everything is tidy. J and I go to shower in refreshingly warm water.

I have to take a scrubbing brush to get rid of the mud under nails and in crevices I didn’t know existed.

While we’re in the shower the camp attendants wash the car and fold the washing.

After showering, we pack up camp to leave for the Falls. I pay the attendants in thawed food (remember the fridge that packed up?) and a few $1 bills.

Mr Kapesa comes walking down to the camp and I have a horrible feeling he’s going to ask me for several hundred dollars, to pay for the rescue.

But he does not; he wishes us well, reiterates again that we were wise to stay with the vehicle and though he regrets our leaving early, hopes we come back to Hwange in future. I give Mr Kapesa my remaining dollars to share amongst the rescue team. It’s not much, but it’s all I have on me.

“I thank you for your efficiency, your dedication, and for the team you lead.”

I am a Zimbo by birth, schooling and wonderful years as a child, adolescent and young adult. I have grown a little sour and negative with age, especially living and working in Africa. I can’t quite put my finger on it - a lack of expectation, I suppose.

I don’t expect good service, good governance, good road maintenance... the list could fill pages. When it comes to Zimbabwe, I expect very little, simply because of the bad press and general deterioration (by my/Western opinion) in the country as a whole.

So the efforts of Zim Parks - Mr Kapesa and his staff, in particular - serve as wake up call. I must stop being a sour, dour old fart and expect more. Maybe if I expect more, I’ll get more.

Thank you Mr Kapesa and your staff, and Zim Parks.

Not only did you save us from the bush, but you renewed some lost faith in the humanity of humans.

PS: This is an absolutely true story, no embellishment or fabrication at all, but I can’t show even one photograph of the main event.

Despite thinking 100 times about taking photographs, I did not do so while stuck and awaiting rescue.

It was a sobering experience and although I knew we were safe at all times, I felt completely helpless, reliant on others - their efficiency, interest, caring, and conscientiousness.

I don’t like feeling that way.

I don’t have great faith in people. Maybe it’s the world we live in, maybe it’s just me.

But whatever it is, I don’t like it and I’m glad that Mr Kapesa, his staff and Zim Parks showed me that I, the tourist, am still important.

Home & Health

4 March 2015

CXPRESS

13

So, what does science say causes cancer?

From coffee to antiperspirant, everyday items are increasingly under scrutiny about whether they could cause cancer - WILMA STASSEN reviews the evidence

D

ON’T worry, your cup of morning coffee and the antiperspirant in your gym bag won’t give you cancer, but here are some of the things that might, according to research: Qdgukv{ Obesity has been linked to an increased risk of cancer.

It is believed that excess fat on the body causes inflammation, which leads to carcinogenesis. Does it cause cancer? Yes! Egtvckp"v{rgu"qh" qtcn"eqpvtcegrvkxgu The commonly used oestrogen-progestogen oral contraceptive is classified as a known carcinogen. So that’s

a resounding ‘Yes’.

Vcppkpi"dgfu Ultraviolet A and B radiation is a well-known cause of skin cancer... Yes! Jckt"uvtckijvgpgt"*Dtc|knkcp" mgtcvkp"v{rg+ Formaldehyde is a known carcinogen and high levels of this chemical can be found in various hair-straightening products. So yeah, it’s probably carcinogenic.

Ht{kpi Yet another reason to stay away from fried food! The emissions released from frying food are potentially carcinogenic. So let’s just say ‘probably’.

----

The jury is still out on whether these household items and everyday activities will increase your risk of cancer: Ecppgf"hqqf"cpf"ftkpmu Cans are sealed with an epoxy resin that contains BPA - a known carcinogen. However, it is uncertain to what extent this chemical is transferred to the foodstuff in the can.

Enkpi"ytcr Household cling wrap has been tested by CANSA and found to be safe. However, many of the large rolls of cling wrap used to cover food products at retailers contain a plasticiser with carcinogenic properties.

Ikpimq"dknqdc"gzvtcev

Letter from latest, greatest arrival at The Greenhouse Hair Stylists

I

feel honoured to have recently joined the excellent team at The Greenhouse Hair Stylists in Plett’s Whalesong Centre. I have been in the hair industry for more than 20 years in Johannesburg, and have worked as stylist at top salons such as The Spot, Carlton Hair, and Hair Inc. I enjoy all aspects of creating the best hairstyles to suit my clients. The right colour and cut can truly transform one’s appearance, highlighting one’s best features and minimising the worst.

I believe in taking the utmost care when performing chemical procedures in order to maintain the condi-

READY TO TURN HEADS: If you need someone to bring out the very best in your share of hair, give Lee a call at The Greenhouse Photo: Watty Watson

tion of your hair. While we have not all been endowed with a good head of hair, using the correct products can work miracles to correct flaws in hair types.

I’m happy to say that The Greenhouse Hair Stylists offers the best products, such as L’Oreal, Kerastase and KMS, to improve and enhance any head of hair.

As we all know, even the most stunning outfit is of no use unless your hair is looking like a million dollars, so please give me a call on 044 533 0097 to make an appointment.

Ngg Ugg"vjg"cfxgtv"qp"vjku"rcig" hqt"cffkvkqpcn"kphqtocvkqp0

Used in many herbal supplements as a memory booster, ginkgo biloba was recently linked to the development of liver and thyroid cancers, as well as nasal tumours in laboratory rats. Although the same result has not been confirmed in humans, experts are cautioning against its use.

Rtqeguugf"ogcv The food preservative nitrite is often used in the preparation of processed meats. Although low levels of nitrite are not harmful, concentrated levels might occur on dried meat products.

Equogvkeu The verdict is still out on whether or not cosmetics may be carcinogenic, but concerns have been raised about varying standards and lack of regulation. Known carcinogens such as lead and formaldehyde have been found in some cosmetics.

Jckt"f{g Earlier hair dye formulations contained high levels of carcinogens such as aromatic amines. Although the hair industry has reformulated their products to be safer, dyes contain as many as 5,000 chemicals, some of which may be carcinogenic to humans.

Uvtguu Even though stress itself has not been linked to cancer, it is believed to weaken the body’s natural defences which might make it vulnerable to the development of cancer cells.

Vcnewo"rqyfgt Although there are no strong links between cancer and talcum powder, researchers have found a higher-than-

Paws

Plett Animal Welfare Service

PIXIE: Martitia Oosthuizen from Storms River went all the way in support of those affected by cancer by shaving her beautiful dark locks during this year’s Shavathon event that took place between February 28 and March 1. More images will follow in the next edition of CXPRESS. Photo: Watty Watson

normal rate of ovarian cancer in women who regularly use it in the genital area.

Egnnrjqpg."VX"cpf" tcfkq"ycxgu Some research has been linking radiofrequency electromagnetic fields - emitted by wireless devices such as cellphones - to certain types of brain cancer, but the World Health Organisation released a statement saying that the evidence is insufficient, and classified it as being “possibly carcinogenic”.

Vjgtocn"kpxqkeg"rcrgt A recent study published in Vjg"Lqwtpcn"qh"vjg"Cogtkecp" Ogfkecn" Cuuqekcvkqp found levels of BPA in people’s urine after they handled thermal invoice paper. *yyy0jgcnvj/g0qti0|c+

La Luna

14

CXPRESS

Read CXPRESS online @ www.cxpress.co.za

4 March 2015

Classifieds

On the Soapbox

4 March 2015

Letters to the Editor

CXPRESS

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

Hoorah to Kwano Home Affairs efficiency!

Accustomed to the drag of queues and administrative red-tape invariably part and parcel of applying for travel documents of registration of children over the years, it was with much trepidation that our family traipsed up to the Home Affairs office at Simunye Centre in KwaNokuthula some weeks back.

Bracing ourselves for the crowds and ‘take a number’ attitude we’ve come to expect, it was marvellously refreshing to rock up at an office where staff contingent

outnumbered members of the public!

Sure, there’s no getting past the amount of forms to be filled out or times that personal information is repeated according to national requirements, especially now that the department has implemented new rules regarding unabridged birth certificates and the like.

But local Home Affairs office manager Nokonwaba Mtonjeni was helpful and friendly and incredibly efficient in advising and navi-

gating us through the reams of paperwork.

Now we’re just waiting for that call to say that the necessary documentation has arrived from George and we can collect same right here in Plett. Then we can really start looking forward to our trip. flKortguugf‚."Rngvv *Kh"{qw"tgcf"jgtg"cpf"yqwnf" nkmg"vq"mpqy"oqtg"cdqwv"vjg" cdqxg/ogpvkqpygf" ngikunc/ vkqp." xkukv" yyy0uqwvjchtkec/ pgy{qtm0pgv1jqogchhcktu" hqt" gpnkijvgpogpv0" Wpfgt" vjg" jgcfkpi" flKookitcvkqp"

after it was posted from Germany.

This year, however, things have changed and we are quite puzzled. We have been in town since January 20 and the first of three letters that was posted on January 23 has still not arrived - after five weeks!

We then asked the manager at Plett Post Office about the reason for this delay. He explained that the postal strike in Johannesburg was responsible for the delay of international dispatches.

On the other side, he said it was absolutely normal that it takes 20 working days for an air-mail letter to arrive in South Africa from overseas, and that he often had to explain this to clients.

By experience from the past years, we know that this was not the case until last year. Is there any plausible explanation why things have changed, unfor-

tunately not for the better?

Other people have the saying in this wonderful country, that it had been considered for a long time as a “first-world country in the third world”. Has South Africa now finally arrived in Africa? flUcf"cpf"fkucrrqkpvgf" jqnkfc{ocmgtu‚"Wtuwnc"(" Tqnh"Pgwjcwu."Rngvv *Vjg" rcuv" hgy" {gctu" jcxg" dggp" ejctcevgtkugf" d{" vjg" fgvgtkqtcvkqp" qh" ocp{" rwd/ nke" ugtxkegu." vjg" UC" Rquv" Qhhkeg" pqv" dgkpi" vjg" hktuv" rctcuvcvcn"vq"hcnvgt"vjtqwij" okuocpcigogpv0" Cp" ctvkeng" gpvkvngf" flCpqvjgt" Rquv" Qh/ hkeg" uvtkmg" nqqou‚" d{" Co{" Owuitcxg"rquvgf"vjku"oqpvj" cv" yyy0kqn0eq0|c1dwukpguu1 pgyu" ugtxgu" cu" kphqtocvkxg" dcemitqwpf"tgcfkpi0 Kv" uvcvgu." kpvgt" cnkc<" ›Vjg" UC"Rquv"Qhhkeg"ku"uvknn"tgeqx/ gtkpi"htqo"ncuv"{gct‚u"uvtkmg0" Vjg" rquukdng" tguworvkqp" qh" vjg" ocuu" cevkqp" yknn" oquv"

nkmgn{"ugg"vjg"uqtvkpi"cpf"fg/ nkxgtkpi"qh"rquv"eqokpi"vq"c" uvcpfuvknn"cickp0"Ejcqu"kv"ugv" vq" eqpvkpwg" hqnnqykpi" go/ rnq{ggu"vjtgcvgpkpi"vq"fqyp" vqqnu" cickp" qxgt" dcem/rc{" cpf"vjg"czkpi"qh"yqtmgtu0fi Ktqpkecnn{." qt" gxgp" vtcik/ ecnn{." cu" uvcvgf" cdqxg." cp" ctvkeng"cv"yyy0hkp460eqo"kp" Qevqdgt"4234"gpvkvngf"flUC‚u" dguv"twp"rctcuvcvcnu"pcogf‚" enckou" vjwu<" ›Ctou" ocpw/ hcevwtgt" Fgpgn" ku" vjg" dguv" iqxgtpgf" uvcvg/qypgf" gp/ vgtrtkug" *UQG+." vjg" Egpvtg" hqt" Eqtrqtcvg" Iqxgtpcpeg" uckf"qp"Vjwtufc{0 ›Vjku" ycu" hqnnqygf" d{" Vtcpupgv." Vgnmqo." vjg" UC" Rquv"Qhhkeg."cpf"vjg"Fgxgn/ qrogpv"Dcpm"qh"UC."rtqlgev" ngcfgt" cpf" ugpkqt" tgugctej" hgnnqy"N{pp"OeItgiqt"vqnf" tgrqtvgtu"kp"Ecrg"Vqyp0fi Htqo" qpg" qh" qwt" vqr" hqwt" UQGu" vq" ›uvcpfuvknnfi" kp" c" eqwrng" qh" {gctuA" Fkueqp/ egtvkpi." vq" uc{" vjg" xgt{" ngcuv0"/"Gfu0+

Final words on SANParks tariffs for boating fraternity Further to the letter ‘The very expensive joys of boating’ (read it on page 11 of the February 11 edition at www.cxpress.co.za) and explanatory press release from SANParks, a second letter was received from the same Knysna resident, as well as a response from Garden Route National Park’s communications manager Knysna Estuary is not a National Park, however, the welfare thereof has been entrusted to SANParks and fees collected from the boating fraternity should be for the exclusive use of the estuary.

Whatever legislation has been enacted does not detract from its primary purpose, which is to maintain the estuary. Bringing the fees levied into line with those of West Coast National Park has no relevance here, as they represent totally different population densities.

It would appear that SANParks is a profit-making

organisation to cover the costs of designated National Parks, including salaries, equipment, pensions, etc.

There are no pensioner discounts for boating, and what is available is for accommodation only.

It is noteworthy that pensioner’s discounts for access to Cape Point Nature Reserve and Table Mountain/ Silvermine have been discontinued.

We elderly folk get screwed all the time.

Ft"OL"Dktf."Mp{upc In his letter, Dr Bird has

missed the following: • The Knysna National Lake Area was proclaimed in 1985 in order to protect Knysna Estuary. In March 2009, Garden Route National Park was proclaimed to incorporate the previously DWAF-managed indigenous state forests and mountain catchment areas in the Outeniqua and Tsitsikamma Mountains, as well as the established Wilderness National Park, Tsitsikamma National Park, and the Knysna Protected Area (Knysna National Lake Area).

SANParks is the managing agency of the estuary. The

Good deed will be paid forward to Bitou’s animals

Fktgevkxg" Pq0" 33" qh" 4236" /" Ejknftgp" vtcxgnnkpi" ykvjqwv" wpcdtkfigf"dktvj"egtvkhkecvg‚" kv" uvcvgu<" ›Vjg" Fgrctvogpv" qh"Jqog"Chhcktu"jcu"rtqxkf/ gf" c" itceg" rgtkqf" vq" cnnqy" ejknftgp" vq" vtcxgn" ykvjqwv" wpcdtkfigf"dktvj"egtvkhkecvgu" wpvkn"3"Lwpg"42370"Vjg"cdqxg" ku"cp"kpvgtko"ogcuwtg"vq"cn/ nqy" rtqurgevkxg" vtcxgnngtu" uwhhkekgpv" vkog" vq" qdvckp" vjg" pgeguuct{" wpcdtkfigf" egt/ vkhkecvg0fi" Cpf" kh" {qw" fqp‚v" eqog" tkijv" qp" vjg" ukvg." ecnn" Ou" Ovqplgpk" qp" 266" 755" 2;360"/"Gfu0+

Degeneration of postal services disappoint We are holidaymakers who regularly stay in this beautiful town of Plettenberg Bay. After 17 years, we consider it as our second home, also due to the many kind and friendly people we have met during all these years, some of whom have become good friends.

It is obvious that in the course of the years things have changed, which is absolutely normal - if for the better, it is an asset; if not, it is just sad.

We write this letter all the more after reading, in CXPRESS of February 18, your article on the State of the Nation chaos, which referred to similar problems.

In order to remain informed on what’s going on at home in Germany, we had our mail sent to our PO Box in this town. Until last year this worked very well, and we received our mail between seven and 10 days

15

estuary is managed under all relevant environmental legislation.

• Dr Bird mentions in his letter that SANParks seems to be “a profit-making organisation…” It is, however, an agency of the National Department of Environmental Affairs. The conservation fees and tariffs charged on activities are used to ensuring sustainable infrastructure, and employees are paid from overhead costs, not from tariff fees.

Pcpfk"Oiycfncodc."

UCPRctmu"Mp{upc"/"pcpfk0 oiycfncodcBucprctmu0qti

WINDSCREEN WIPER WATCH SURPRISE! The Museum of Modern Art watch returned to the author by an unknown Good Samaritan

Last Wednesday, my car was parked outside Absa in Plett’s Main Street. Sometime later in the morning I noticed that my MoMA watch was not on my arm any longer. The watch has sentimental value, and I didn’t think I would ever see it again.

But there is a Good Samaritan in Plett who found the watch, which must have been lying next to the driver’s door, and placed it on the windscreen wiper. It’s so unusual to come across such honesty and I appreciate it very much.

He or she did not leave a note so I don’t know who to thank, but I will be giving a donation to PAWS in return for your great gesture. You know who you are. flEC449/462‚."Rngvv *Iqqf"/"Ucoctkvcp"/"pgyu"ku" cnyc{u" yqtvj" ujctkpi0" Vwtp" vq"rcig"9"hqt"c"tgrqtv"qp"vjg" hwpfu" tgswktgf" vq" mggr" Rngvv" Cpkocn" Ygnhctg" Ugtxkegu" chnqcv."cpf"vcmg"pqvg"vjcv"kvu" RCYU" Ect" Dqqv" Ucng" vkog" vjku" Uwpfc{." Octej" :." htqo" ;co" vq" 3ro" cv" Vjg" Octmgv" Uswctg" ujqrrkpi" egpvtg." ugg" {qw"vjgtg#"/"Gfu0+

16

CXPRESS

Sport & Adventure

4 March 2015

Sign up now for Pennypinchers Easter Surf Ski Challenge on April 4

T

HE Pennypinchers Easter Surf Ski Challenge started eight years ago in the heyday of surf ski paddling in this country. Billy Harker and the Discovery Surf Ski Series were getting record entries of racers in Cape Town and Durban.

Plett Paddling Club decided it wanted a slice of the action and the event was born with initial sponsorship from local Pennypinchers operator Sean Gannon.

The race quickly grew to a point where it gained TV coverage, and bigger sponsorship from Pennypinchers head office and PPC Cement helped turning it into a regular event on the SA surf ski calendar.

Footage broadcast on national television showcased the magnificence of Plett and the race attracted paddlers from all over the country, while the lure of great prize money from the sponsors ensured participation by the best of the best.

Sean Rice arrived on the surf ski scene with his win in Plettenberg Bay on a Think Evo Ski that has seen him go on to win many local and

international races on that same brand of ski.

Another young winner was Brandon van der Walt, who has since gone on to become a world champion marathon paddler.

Other men’s paddlers who have topped the podium at this race are the Mocke brothers Dawid and Jasper, and Hank McGregor who between them hold more current and past World Championship medals in canoeing and Surf Ski paddling than anyone else.

The ladies podium has been dominated over the years by world champion paddlers Nicci Mocke and local star Mich Eray.

With the Bay offering many different course options, the route is traditionally set by local paddlers Neal Stephenson and Stef le Roux whose vast paddling and NSRI experience results in a course that is challenging yet safe for all levels of paddlers.

Last year it was decided to have the doubles race late in the afternoon on the same day as the singles. This allows paddlers the option of chilling on the beach and

then enjoying great hospitality at Plett Surf Lifesaving Club afterwards.

The Surf Ski Race is also the last leg in the Off the Treble Hook Challenge, sponsored by Off the Hook and Robberg Seafood. This Challenge Trophy is given to the athlete with the fastest combined times in the Pennypinchers Cairnbrogie Easter Trail Run, Pennypinchers Night MTB Relay, and Pennypinchers Easter Surf Ski Challenge.

This year Stanley Island will again be hosting some of the country’s top paddlers and offering discounted rates to any other competitors in the events hosted by the Pennypinchers Adventure Racing Team over Easter weekend.

It is also part of the Plett Easter Games held every year in conjunction with Plett Tourism For accommodation specials at Stanley Island, email info@stanleyisland.co.za and quote Pennypinchers Adventure. Enter online at entrytickets.co.za and follow the event on Facebook at Pennypinchers Adventure.

I THINK, THEREFORE I SURF SKI: Shaun ‘Prawn’ Rice was the winner of last year’s Easter Surf Ski Challenge - Photo: Glenn Murray

Jaguar Simola Hillclimb entries speeding in King of the Hill already fully subscribed! Limited spaces remaining for Classic Car Friday! New Supercar Thursday brings added dose of excitement! And that’s just some of this year’s Hillclimb highlights...

T

HE Jaguar Simola Hillclimb is South Africa’s premier must-see motorsport weekend, defined by breath-taking cars and legendary drivers of all eras competing against the clock, and each other, for the fastest time on the challenging 1.9km ‘Hill’.

It’s all about raw performance, speed, grit and determination - and, of course, razor-sharp driver skill and focus - to chip away at the tenths and hundredths of a second that ultimately determine who is crowned King of the Hill for 2015.

Well over 10,000 spectators soaked up the thrills, spills and non-stop action in 2014. With even more to offer this year, the numbers are expected to grow further as traditionally peaceful Knysna is transformed into South Africa’s motorsport capital.

As speed is the name of the game, competitors have invariably reacted swiftly to the opening of entries for this year’s event, which takes place from May 14-17.

A mere three weeks since the first entries were accepted at the beginning of February, the headline-grabbing

King of the Hill category is already fully subscribed.

King of the Hill caters for a maximum of 80 entries, comprising both production cars and race vehicles, each of which is separated into smaller classes based on engine capacity, number of cylinders and whether they are normally aspirated or boosted by means of a turbocharger or supercharger.

Similarly, only a handful of places remain available for Classic Car Friday, which sees 50 beautifully prepared classic road-going and race cars giving it their all as they are powered up on the sinewy tarmac towards the finish line at Simola Golf and Country Estate.

“We have been overwhelmed by the number of entries received, and delighted that the Jaguar Simola Hillclimb continues to be regarded as South Africa’s preeminent motorsport event,” says Geoff Goddard, who heads up Competitor Liaison.

Last year’s winner, Franco Scribante, will be back to defend his title and recordbreaking time of 41.159 seconds. However, a change to the rules prevents him from

competing in the same car on both Classic Car Friday and King of the Hill.

Accordingly, he has entered Classic Car Friday with the 1970 Chevron B19 he used to dominate last year’s event. For King of the Hill on the Saturday and Sunday, Scribante will be competing in a Chevron B26 powered by a specially developed 3.2-litre V8 Suzuki engine.

He will be facing off against a brace of previous winners and motorsport legends, including 2012 champion Jade Gutzeit in a highly modified Mitsubishi Lancer Evo 7, and 2010 winner Geoff Mortimer in a turbocharged Nissan 350Z. Certainly one of the other main drawcards will be Supercar Thursday, introduced for the first time this year.

Although this is a non-competitive event, the runs will be timed, thus giving owners of these high-performance supercars a rare opportunity to push their cars to the limit.

Spectators will be able to see the dazzling array of dream machines unleashed on the Hill throughout the day. Be there.

Rug & Tile team Plettenberg Bay’s latest Businesses League title holders

Congratulations to the top teams at the most recent Business League at Plett Bowling Club, on February 24. In the pink, in every sense of the word, was the winning Rug & Tile team of Roy Rudman, Megan Mason and Ken Spencer, with main sponsor FNP Plett manager Jaco Henning lurking at left. Second place went to the Village Bookshop team of Jane & Richard Schulz and Liesel Fosbrook, right. The next Business League takes place in October. - Photos: Derek Rushton