4 September 2019

4 September 2019

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

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Let’s plant!

September is Arbor Month and you can help South Africanbased environmental NGO Greenpop reach its goal of raising 10,000 trees in 30 days.

This image was captured when Knysna residents were doing just that at Featherbed Nature Reserve recently. Find out more on page 7 and visit www. greenpop.org to contribute.

Plett Tourism AGM: facts and figures - p5 These sports stars are heading east - p12

Photo: Juliette Bisset

Is new Housing man best for the job? - p3

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CXPRESS

NEWS & VIEWS

4 September 2019

OBITUARY

A tribute to Peter Gardiner - a life well lived ETER Gardiner was born in London in 1932. He studied law and was initially a solicitor at a family firm in the city, where he met Helen a physiotherapist working at Guy’s Hospital.

He followed Helen back to South Africa where he joined Anglo American, becoming a director at Anglo Properties soon thereafter.

He also worked as secretary to Harry Oppenheimer for several years and then went on to become chairman of the Sandton Management Committee for 15 years. He was mayor of Sandton twice, in 1982 and in 1987, and was active in opposition politics throughout the apartheid years.

Peter was happily married to

Helen for 55 years. In 2000, they retired to Plett, where Helen’s parents, Jean and Walter Lyle, had spent most of their lives.

Peter had a colourful and interesting life which included falling off an elephant! In the process, he broke his neck in six places, which resulted in an eight-hour operation and the removal of two vertebra.

He will be lovingly remembered as a wonderful husband, father, and grandfather - a true gentleman who will be greatly missed by his family and his many friends and associates. • A memorial service for Peter will be held at St Peter’s Anglican Church on Thursday September 5 at 4pm, followed by drinks at 24 Twin Rivers.

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GEOFFREY PETER GARDINER: 20.01.1932 - 29.08.2019

First-of-the-month swimmers keep Pascalette’s tradition alive colourful crew of cozzieclad locals gathered at Central Beach by first light on Sunday September 1 to pay tribute to a dearly-departed mother and friend to many, who left behind a most refreshing legacy.

Longtime Plett resident Pascalette Quirk started doing her sunrise dip in the bay about eight years ago, as a personal challenge and guaranteed reboot at the start of each new month.

Everyone was encouraged to join, come winter or summer, rain or shine and as the years went by, the group gathered momentum and set a firm local tradition.

When Pascalette passed away in June this year, her fellow first-of-the-month swimmers felt as bereaved as her closest family and friends. But a firm resolve was shared to not let

this tradition or the memory of quirky Pascalette fade away.

The mood on the beach was jubilant as about 30 swimmers prepared to welcome spring by dipping into the surf, taking along flowers and wreaths to

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MEMORIES CAPTURED: A pic of Pascalette’s silhouette with the beach and rising sun as backdrop adorned the table where a candle was lit in her memory

READY TO REBOOT: Friends of the late Pascalette Quirk joined her sons on Central Beach to celebrate the season with an ocean dip Photos: Lyndal Leggat

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They intend to keep the tradition alive on the first of each month to honour her memory while enjoying the collective revitalisation of an early-morning ocean dip.

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NEWS & VIEWS

4 September 2019

CXPRESS

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Will Knysna’s new housing manager be accused of trying to ‘steal a town’?

Knysna’s municipal manager (MM) yesterday lashed back after DA constituency head Dr Dion George last week called for the review of a ‘dodgy housing appointment’ N his statement on August 30, Dion George expressed the concern of local DA members when learning of the appointment of Lindile Petuna as Human Settlements manager for Knysna Municipality. “Petuna, who also features prominently in Crispian Olver’s book How to Steal a City, has been accused of misleading or attempting to mislead the Nelson Mandela Bay council on 133 separate occasions af-

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ter which he resigned at his disciplinary hearing. “We are calling on mayor Mark Willemse and his ANC counterparts to urgently review this appointment in light of this deeply concerning information,� said George. “Given Mr Petuna’s track record, the DA does not believe he will execute his official duties in the best interest of the people of Knysna.

George concluded: “We will monitor the situation

carefully and continue to put pressure on the mayor and his executive to put the interests of Knysna ahead of dodgy appointments.�

But on Monday, Knysna MM Dr Sitembele Vatala claimed that Petuna’s appointment was in line with procedure. “Lindile Petuna is the most suitable candidate for the position of Human Settlements manager. A qualified and registered town planner, Mr Petuna performed excep-

House robber arrested thanks to community HE Plett community’s eagle eyes contributed to the swift arrest of an alleged home burglar.

Plettenberg Bay Crime Prevention Association operations head Otto Olivier said local police approached them to assist with circulating information about a 37-year-old house burglary suspect on August 29. “We started circulating the suspect’s picture with information and the community

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immediately responded,�

Olivier said.

He added that the police started receiving calls from residents providing details about the suspect’s whereabouts. “It was not even halfan-hour before the suspect was located and arrested.�

Olivier said home burglaries have been on the increase in Plett over the past few weeks, especially in the Keurbooms area, and that the suspects did not appear

to be opportunistic criminals but targeted specific houses and planned their attacks carefully.

He explained that some of the incidents involved suspects gaining access to unoccupied homes through the roof. During other incidents, where suspects forced their way into their target homes in other ways, the owners were at home at the time of the attack.

- YolandĂŠ Stander

tionally well during the municipality’s vigorous recruitment and selection process.�

Vatala continued that the mayor and councillors were only involved in the appointment of the MM, while the appointment of other staff was the responsibility of the MM, who was the municipality’s Accounting Officer.

“A seasoned politician like Dr George should be aware of this. If he harboured reservations about any new appointment, he should have written to me in my capacity of Accounting Officer. I find it regrettable that he chose to bring the municipality into disrepute through a politically-motivated press statement,� Vatala said.

He added that the DA unanimously supported the appointment of Petuna to the Knysna Municipal Planning Tribunal (KMPT) at the August 29 meeting (a day before George’s statement). “Were the allegations merited, the DA councillors should have brought these to the attention of the full council and KMPT.�

Foreigners claim police arrest, bribing N August 26 at 6:30am, a Malawian man who wants to remain anonymous was walking down Makou Street in Sedgefield towards the N2 to meet his employer.

Along the way he met two fellow Malawians who live in George but were visiting Smutsville. Just before the highway intersection a police van, allegedly from Mossel Bay, stopped and arrested the trio. “We were thrown in the back of the van, but they did not tell us why or ask for our passports or work visas,� the victim told CXPRESS. “They said they were taking us to Knysna Police Station, and closed the door.�

The van then drove for a few kilometres, before stopping on the side of the road.

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“One of the policemen said we were already late for work and we would be fired.

If we wanted to keep our jobs, we had to pay R100 each, and they would take us back to Sedgefield.�

The victim said they kept repeating: “What plan can you make?�

The three allegedly handed over the only money they had. The policeman took the money, closed the van door, and the vehicle headed back to Sedgefield where it dropped them off at a hitchhiking spot.

Mossel Bay police denied that any of their vehicles were in Sedgefield on Monday, and said it may have been Mossel Bay Sea Border Police. Sea Border denied that their van was in the

vicinity, as their vehicles apparently report to the station at 6am, and would thus not have been able to get to Sedgefield by 6:30.

This is not the first case of police officials being accused of picking up foreigners and threatening them with arrest before bribing and releasing them.

A few months ago, a Sedgefield resident who wishes not to be named, reported that his employee had been in a similar situation. But when he tried to report the case, the police denied any knowledge of it and eventually the matter was dropped.

Police spokesman captain Malcolm Pojie had not responded to enquiries in this regard by going to print.

- Talia Day

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CXPRESS

NEWS & VIEWS

4 September 2019

Hornlee’s backyard dwellers demand ‘one plot one family’ group of discontented Hornlee residents peacefully marched to Knysna Provincial Hospital, the police station, and municipal offices on Friday August 30 to deliver detailed memoranda of grievances affecting their community.

Around 7:30am on Friday, demonstrators gathered at Lamco in Hornlee, and proceeded to express their discontent about a number of issues that fail to allow them the privilege of peace of mind.

They complain about drugs in their community and how the police deal inadequately with the drug

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lords responsible, poor service in the clinics and the hospital, as well as the lack of housing.

Some brandishing placards and some sporting regalia of the political parties they are affiliated to, the residents passed the hospital, police station and court, finally stopping at Knysna Municipality.

This was their ultimate destination, as grievances about the lack of housing in Hornlee was the issue that spurred residents to stage the march.

Organiser Ralph Stander of Knysna United said: “No houses have been built in Hornlee for the

FORWARD, BACKYARD DWELLERS! The march on Friday morning disrupted Knysna CBD traffic for a while but concluded without incident

past 20 years and nearly every household has backyard dwellers.�

However, on August 27, prior to the march, the municipality issued a statement explaining items discussed in a July 31 meeting between the South African Human Rights Commission (SAHRC) and Knysna municipal manager Dr Sithembele Vatala, following previous protests during which the N2 was closed.

Among the items was the housing situation in Hornlee. In the meeting Vatala said, inter alia: “Hornlee is included in a three-year delivery plan for development of our directorate

Words & photo: Ludumo Tede

of integrated human settlement. This plan aims to see at least 150 houses built in Hornlee during the next two financial years at a combined amount of approximately R20-milion.�

Vatala further explained that construction of houses, constitutionally, is a function of national and provincial government, and that municipalities receive funding from government.

All the institutions to which a memoranda were delivered are expected to respond in writing within 14 days, and to attend a community meeting on Friday September 20 at Hornlee Civic Hall.

Plett Ratepayers Association Update Be vigilant when public participation is required Len Swimmer - Planning and Land Use Portfolio

XFEOFTEBZ

HE price of freedom is eternal vigilance. Over the years this truism has been attributed to many people - from Thomas Jefferson to, lately, our own Desmond Tutu.

Be that as it may, it is an undeniable truth and does not only apply to “freedom�, but equally to many other things that are valuable to society and worthy of our protection.

One such thing is the environment in which we live - not just its cleanliness, but also other intangibles - what is referred to as our “sense of place�, the natural surroundings, vistas, and atmosphere we often take for granted but miss dearly when absent.

These things make us want to live in Plettenberg Bay, while others aspire to do so and, for many others, to want to visit and share in it, even if just for a short time.

Plett’s marketing slogan ‘It’s a feeling’ encapsulates it perfectly. If we harm that which comprises this “feeling�, we harm Plett as well as ourselves.

It is protection-worthy and preserving it requires our eternal vigilance.

A perfect example where the Plett (wo)man-in-thestreet exhibited the requisite vigilance to do just that was the strong opposition to a proposed small boat harbour and the impact it would have had on the sense of place or “feeling� which is Plett.

Some years ago we participated in the planning of Plett’s urban renewal,

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which included identifying those things that make Plett unique and ensuring the plan would protect those valuable assets so that we don’t inadvertently destroy or detract from them.

Two of these that immediately spring to mind are Signal Hill and the historic Timber Shed.

Ironically, both have come under threat lately.

An application is afoot to build a new boutique hotel in close proximity to the open area (Erf 252) on Signal Hill. A demolition order has been ordered for the existing structure, and whether the application will continue is uncertain.

On the face of it, this seems quite acceptable, but the proposal may exceed current height and other restrictions, which will detract from the unimpeded views that make Signal Hill such a popular viewing spot for locals and visitors.

Furthermore, it appears the required parking bays will either be on the roof of the building and provide a “car park� as foreground to the ocean views, or the hotel parking bays may be excised for private use from public open space/ parking on Erf 252, to the detriment of the general public’s enjoyment of what has been identified in the urban renewal plan as preservation-worthy public open space.

Even though the proposed development is not on Erf 252 itself, its scale and positioning are such that it poses a real threat to the “feeling�.

The historic Timber Shed, a national monument, forms a vital compo-

nent of the sense of place of the tranquil little valley it is set in. A few years ago a B&B was established on a single residential property adjoining the shed.

That in itself - provided proper town planning and public participation were followed to ensure the change in land use does not negatively affect the shed in particular and tranquillity of the area as a whole should not pose a problem.

The B&B has, however, become more of an entertainment/restaurant/pub venue and its popularity requires additional parking as its patrons occupy public parking meant for visitors to the beach.

It has been proposed that part of the erf on which the shed is located should be used for parking exclusive to the B&B/entertainment venue. Again, it is public open space that contributes to the sense of place, the much-vaunted “feeling� in our town’s slogan.

It is a fact: the public spaces that make Plett a desirable place to live in and visit are constantly under threat.

While one cannot and should not stop all development, it is up to us, the public, to be fearless in our opposition to inappropriate proposals that threaten to destroy that which we hold dear and should protect for future generations.

Be ever vigilant and play your part in the public processes in place to protect your rights. Although Plett Ratepayers Association will be watching closely, don’t rely on us alone; we will do as much as we can, but rely on you to also play a role.

NEWS & VIEWS

4 September 2019

CXPRESS

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Plett Tourism AGM reiterates importance of unified Bitou for benefit of all Words & photos: Timothy Twidle

INVALUABLE INPUT: At last week’s AGM, Peter Wallington who resigned as PTA chair in June - was presented with a gift

by Cindy Wilson-Trollip in recognition of the great contribution he made to tourism in Plett over a period of six years

HE Annual General Meeting of the Plett Tourism Association (PTA) held at The White House last Wednesday was attended by some 100 people, representing various communities of the town and its environs.

The meeting was presided over by PTA chairman Bruce Richardson, who was appointed by the outgoing board after Peter Wallington resigned as head of the organisation in June.

Richardson paid tribute to the great contribution that Wallington had made to

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tourism in Plettenberg Bay over a period of six years.

In his opening remarks, prior to the overview of the year past presented by PTA manager Cindy WilsonTrollip, Richardson stressed a number of points, salient to the business at hand.

“Tourism is the vital economic driver of Plettenberg Bay and we can never underestimate its importance to our town,” he said.

“Tourism is the most fragile industry on the planet.

We cannot be a conflicted community in the pursuit of a successful local tour-

ism industry - we have to work together, we all have to pull in the same direction. But successful tourism requires proper funding.

“We have to sell Plettenberg Bay as a destination of choice by way of marketing and destination management, and create a value chain for the benefit of all who reside in Bitou.”

Until recently the PTA annually received R4-million of funding from Bitou Municipality, but the 2019/20 budget for this purpose has been culled to R2-million.

A new tourism position has been created within Bitou’s Economic Development unit, and the bulk of funding earmarked for tourism development and related events now resides there.

The drafting of a new municipal bylaw pertaining to tourism in Plettenberg Bay has been under consideration for an extensive period, but has not as yet been finalised.

Wilson-Trollip enlarged upon this point in her presentation: “Tourism brings some R2.6-billion per annum to the economy of Plett by way of 1,400,000 bed nights, 112 different activities, more than 100 eateries, a number of festivals, events and happenings, and the burgeoning viticulture industry of the area.

“Plett wine estates sell in excess of a quarter of a million bottles of wine annually. The wildlife and animal attractions in Bitou

LET’S MAKE IT WORK: Pictured from left are Nandie Bulabula, Debra Matsolo, new Plett Tourism Association board member Nokuzola Kolwapi, and Gcobi Jafta

record in toto 240,000 visitors per year.

“Moreover, Plett’s tourism industry provides employment to some 4,000 people, who receive an aggregate total of R400-million in wages, year on year.”

A number of representations, comments, and questions from the floor were accorded due time and it was agreed that these mat-

ters would be taken up by the incoming PTA board as part of their remit.

In accordance with the PTA constitution, the term of office of the current board has now expired, and a new board has taken office for a period of three years.

Elected board members are Michaeljon Birch (The Plettenberg), Therry Wuethrich (Life Brands - The Grand Rooms), Nokuzola Kolwapi (Jabulani), Nicola Ash (The Fat Fish), Mark

Brown (Nature’s Valley Trust), and Lara Mostert (Monkeyland and Birds of Eden).

Duncan Brown has been appointed as representative of Plett Business Chamber. A representative of the Plettenberg Bay Crime Prevention Association and appointees of both Bitou Municipality and a Community Representative will be deliberated upon at the inaugural meeting of the new board of the PTA.

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CXPRESS

NEWS & VIEWS

4 September 2019

Celebrate Casual Day with Die Sterreweg on September 6

These Belgian students are preparing to celebrate Casual Day in Plett this Friday. Says spokesperson Stephanie Reipen: “On September 6, we celebrate Casual Day with Die Sterreweg day-care centre for kids with special needs in New Horizons. Just like last year, this exceptional day will be organised by Die Sterreweg staff and 15 students of the multidisciplinary team of Artevelde University College of Ghent. Our aim is to make Die Sterreweg a centre of excellence and a prime example of good practice for other organisations in the region.” She adds that festivities will start at 10am and will take place at The White House on Crescent Street in Plett CBD. “And at 12 noon, Belgian pancakes will be served. We hope to see you then!” Email stephreipen@gmail.com additional information.

Dictate your own future once you’ve mastered the English tongue ORN in Africa (BIA) believes education is a fundamental right of every child. Language proficiency is an important component in children’s self-confidence and helps them to succeed in life.

Says BIA educational coordinator Veronique Claes: “It being a universal language, we encourage our children to practise English daily. To further assist their mastery of the language, we decided that this year’s educational competition should focus on the correct spelling of English words, in the form of a dictation competition.”

Volunteers and mentors joined forces to prepare all Born in Africa students from five different primary schools, organising afterschool classes and coming up with fun ways to practise their spelling and listening skills.

Mentors then chose the two top-performing learners in each grade - the fortunate ones who were invited to finals held at the BIA education centre in Kranshoek on Tuesday August 20.

After completing a ‘fill in the blanks’ dictation test, the three highest-scoring learners from Grade 3 to 7 were announced.

“It was amazing to see all schools well represented in the final round,” enthuses Veronique - “Kranshoek, Harkerville, The Crags, Wittedrift High and Primary learners all battled it out to show who could spell the best, and the winners from different grades turned out to be from different schools, too.”

The top performers were awarded with bicycles and certificates of excellence, but nobody left emptyhanded, as all contestants

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received certificates of attendance and cool prizes.

The Born in Africa team expressed their gratitude for the support of Mrs Koeberg - a Grade 1 teacher at The Crags Primary and BIA board member - who served as Master of Ceremonies, as well as Harkerville Grade 2 teacher Ms Myburgh, board member Janet Harding,

and BIA tertiary student Tarric Davids for adjudicating the competition.

“Together with our staff and volunteers Robbin and Amber, it turned out to be an amazing day. Every participant went home a winner and we thank everyone who made this special event possible, proving that together we can make a difference indeed.”

TOP OF THE SPELL POPS: Educational coordinator Veronique Claes, left, and BIA director Isabelle Brink with the top three Grade 3s - from left are Desmay Williams, Lameez Alexander, and Renette Titus with the bicycle scored as first-prize winner

PROUD TO MAKE THE CUT: Awesome MC Mrs Koeberg with Grade 7 contestants Meshay Jacobs and Ashante Tarentaal from Harkerville, and Wittedrift student Obuhle Madolo

REWARDED: Isabelle and Veronique with all participating Grade 4 contestants showing off their certificates and prizes

NEWS & VIEWS

4 September 2019

CXPRESS

The Arbor Month message is clear: Plant trees, save the planet!

La Luna

Read CXPRESS online @ www.cxpress.co.za

South African-based environmental organisation Greenpop calls on all for accelerated tree-planting action this Arbor Month OUTH Africa celebrates Arbor Month each year in September - a time to focus on tree planting across the nation. NGO Greenpop last week launched its bold new planting goal 500,000 trees by 2025 - in response to recently-released studies reiterating that trees most effectively mitigate climate change.

Help Greenpop this September to set in motion the awesome aim of raising 10,000 trees in 30 days. You

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can be part of the solution and propel this mission into fast-forward by donating either trees or cash (a donation of R120 = one tree). Visit www.greenpop. org for more information and to contribute.

According to experts, we need to plant onetrillion trees. “While this may sound unachievable, it is possible,” says Greenpop director Lauren O’Donnell.

“There are thousands of tree-planting organi-

sations globally. If we all support our local treeplanters, we have the potential to impact real change in the world.”

Donated trees will be planted in collaboration with organisations across Sub-Saharan Africa and will help fight climate change, restore ecosystems, and improve lives.

Greenpop is committed to a holistic, contextually relevant approach which includes a strong focus on skills development

and training for communities that are custodians of the trees, as well as robust monitoring and evaluation.

Since 2010, Greenpop has planted just over 115,000 trees and worked on environmental projects in urban greening, reforestation and conservation agriculture.

Its focus has been on connecting people with the planet, engaging communities, and inspiring environmental stewards.

GREEN ARMY: Greenpop has planted 115,000+ trees since 2010 and inspired over 132,000 active citizens across SA, Zambia, Malawi, and Tanzania; these pics were shot at Rheenendal and Nature’s Valley respectively - Photos: Aidan Tobias

No excuse not to benefit from National Parks Week, with weekend now part of the package SCAPE the hustle and bustle and head to Garden Route National Park (GRNP) from September 8-15, when all South African citizens gain free entry thanks to a South African National Parks (SANParks) partnership with TotalSA and FNB. This year, SANParks has heeded the request from those unable to visit any of the country’s 21 national parks during the week, to include a Saturday and Sunday in SA’s 14th National Parks Week.

The indigenous forests managed within GRNP form the biggest forest complex in Southern Africa, the Garden Route boasting the westernmost distribution of numerous of these species, according to ecologist Jessica Hayes.

Including its Tsitsikamma, Knysna and Wilderness sections, GRNP terrestrial vegetation is one-third indigenous forest and the balance fynbos.

Other national parks in the vicinity of CX Country include Addo Elephant National Park (outside Port Elizabeth), Camdeboo National Park (on the border of Graaff-Reinet), Karoo National Park (outside Beaufort West), and Mountain Zebra National Park (near Cradock).

Due to the popularity of

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Addo Elephant Park and its proximity to Port Elizabeth, gate quotas of 700 people per day per gate will apply over the weekend.

The number of locals visiting GRNP has increased yearly since the campaign’s inception in 2006, largely due to great weather and the fact that visitors arrive in groups.

The park is perfect for a remote getaway, while in close proximity to several Garden Route towns.

Explore the GRNP’s scenic picnic spots: the Wilderness section has Island Lake and Ebb & Flow Rest Camp’s day visitor areas, and Jubilee Creek in the Goudveld/ Millwood Forest. Knysna offers its Diepwalle Museum, self-drive forest excursions, and the Garden of Eden picnic spot.

In the Tsitsikamma section, the Big Tree (largest in the region) will be open to visitors, as well as the suspension bridge and hiking trails inside Storms River Rest Camp.

“We hope to see everyone taking advantage of these inexpensive getaways, especially since parks will be open for seven days from one weekend to the next,” says GRNP park manager Paddy Gordon.

Upgrade of the entrance gate to Storms River Rest Camp was completed last year, and maintenance of the road to Wilderness was also completed, so access to all three GRNP sections is clear.

These wow stats make the Garden Route so very wonderful: • Number 1 estuary in South Africa in terms of

biodiversity significance Knysna Estuary.

• Three estuaries where the Knysna seahorse can be found - Knysna, Swartvlei and Keurbooms.

• Several GRNP estuaries, particularly the larger systems, are high conservation value ecosystems assessed according to their physical and biological attributes, habitat importance and rarity (of SA’s ±250 estuaries Swartvlei is sixth, Knysna first).

• Boasting 84,000ha forest and 44,000ha fynbos, the forest is a haven for 470 plant species.

• In excess of 22 species of amphibians, 24 types of reptile, 305 bird species and 69 mammal species have been recorded in GRNP. Visit https://www.san parks.org for details.

FOREST FOR FREE: Several picnic spots, walks and self-drive excursions form part of the offerings SA citizens can savour for free next week - Photo: A Mouton/SANParks

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CXPRESS

INTERVAL

4 September 2019

Reap what you sow ARLY one evening a gentleman scuttled out to his garage and pulled the lawn furniture out onto the driveway.

Shortly after followed the lawnmower, a few gardening tools, and a bicycle.

A curious neighbour wandered over and asked if he was going to have a garage sale.

“No,” replied the gentleman, “my son just bought his first car and right now

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he’s getting ready for a big date. He’ll be taking the car out soon to pick up the girl.”

“So what’s with all the stuff ?” asked the curious neighbour.

“Well, after years of moving tricycles, toys, and sports equipment out of the way every time I came home from work, I wanted to make sure the driveway was ready for him.”

Slowly holding down a job young lad was a very slow worker and subsequently found it difficult to hold down a job. After a visit to the employment office, he was offered work at the local zoo.

When he arrived for his first day, the keeper, aware of his reputation, told the lad to take care of the tortoise section.

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Later, the keeper dropped by to see how the young man was doing and found him standing by an empty enclosure with the gate open.

“Where are the tortoises?” he asked.

“I can’t believe it…” said the dazed lad, “I just opened the gate, and whoosh, they were gone.”

The lotto-winning farmer N old farmer wins the R10-million national lottery and is being interviewed.

The reporter asked what he is going to do with all the money.

“Oh, I reckon the first

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thing I’ll do is go and pay a few bills.”

“That’s great. And what about the rest?” the reporter asked.

The farmer shrugs.

“Well, I guess they’ll just have to wait.”

What is frisson?

We’ve all experienced it. Frisson is the chill or the goose-bumps you feel when you hear a particular piece of music or see a particular movie scene. It is a sudden and strong feeling of excitement.

The truth about bowling balls sometimes worry about the germs in the holes of bowling balls.

Nobody cleans those holes. There are years of impacted pizza fingers in there. Taco fingers.

Chicken fingers.

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I’m amazed those balls still have holes. Ever smell a bowling ball hole?

You think the balls are knocking down the pins?

You’re wrong.

The pins are passing out from the smell.

Don’t toy with me...

Y kids were fighting over their toys.

I warned them if they kept it up I would take the toys away.

They didn’t stop so I took their toys away to

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teach them a lesson.

Afterwards, they were still fighting.

I said: “That’s it!”

And gave them their toys back.

Lesson learned.

A traffic cop pulled a car over on the highway for speeding.

When the cop asked for his licence, the driver argued: “Speeding? But officer, I was only trying to keep a safe distance between my car and the car behind me!”

SOCIAL SCENE

4 September 2019

CXPRESS

HONOURED FOR TALENT: Two Plett musicians have been honoured by UNISA after completion of the midyear music exams. Bea Duncan passed the violin Grade 1 exam with 76%, and Tristan Kannemeyer passed the violin Grade 1 exam with 81%, as well as cello Pre-Grade 1 with 90% - what one calls ‘flying colours’! Both these Grade 4 learners at Greenwood Bay College in Plett are music students of Christina du Plessis-Kannemeyer, and were both aged nine when completing these challenging UNISA trials. Tristan and his teacher will now appear on the UNISA Roll of Honours in the next edition of ‘Musicus’ well done! Local music aficionados should diarise Monday night September 9 when English cellist Gary Hoffman teams up with South African pianist Francois du Toit at Knysna DRC hall for a concert that will include composers Couperin, Beethoven and Mendelssohn. Tickets are sold at the door from 6:45pm (R150 and R50 for scholars) and the show starts at 7:30pm sharp.

CELEBRATING A CENTURY IN STYLE: Plett resident Margaretha Dorethea Johanna Kohler turned 100 on August 28… one thousand congrats to you, ma’am! Mrs Kohler is pictured at right with her Plett Home Care team - from left are Caroline, Ntombi, Tammlyn, Cordelia and Hazel - and enjoying a glass of bubbly with her special friend Molly Nel, above, before spending a very special morning with family and loved ones.

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People, places & events

YOU CAN BE THAT PRO! The Formosa Primary School Grade R class had a successful career day recently. Learners dressed up as their favourite professions and it was clear from the onset that many of the kids wanted to be doctors, beauticians and teachers. Formosa personnel urge Plett residents to show more interest their kids’ lives and in what’s happening at the school, to promote good ties between learner, parent and teacher.

Pictured above with the four Grade R teachers and kids in their career day regalia is headmaster Mr Collin Wildeman, at centre in the back row.

BRIDGE FOR FENCES FOR HORSES: The Plett Bridge Club had their annual charity event at Plett Country Club on Tuesday August 20. Organiser Linn Gubb and her team say they exceeded their target, and are donating all their winnings this year to the African Hoofprint Foundation NPC and the Kranshoek Equine Project, which will be utilising the funds to put up fencing for their horses. In the photo from left at back are winners Avril Green, Brian Shelley, and Lin Gubb of Plett Bridge Club with Sue Shelley, Trevor Green and rider Lee Naude-Plociennik. In front from left are Kranshoek riders Lana Williams (standing at left), and seated are Roxzaan Johnson, Nicole Jacobs, Jared Jansen and Deohlan Oliphant. - Photo: LM Dunn

KUDOS FOR CUPIDO: Jermaine Cupido, right, of Bitou Municipality won the award for the best paper and presentation at the 23rd SAPRA (South Africa Revenue Protection Association) annual convention held at Piesang Valley Hall in Plettenberg Bay on August 25 and 26. Here Jermaine receives his award from SAPRA president Greg Stopford - Photo: Vinthi Neufeld

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4 September 2019

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Paws

Plett Animal Welfare Service

CLASSIFIEDS

ON THE SOAPBOX

4 September 2019

Letters to the Editor

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

Business woman puts ball in SANParks court I write in reference to ‘This lady may well be our best shot at transforming the local tourism industry’ [on page 4 of the August 21 edition at www.cxpress.co.za].

A few questions for Mrs Kolwapi before she gets my vote: she is a government/Bitou employee, but has a timber harvesting concession with SANParks. Is this legal?

How has she managed to retain the concession without paying the fees for eight years (about R2-million)? How did she manage to take heavy machinery into sensitive indigenous areas where this job was undertaken by horses in the old days?

Why aren’t her staff paying UIF or work-

man’s compensation, or have contracts, like the law forces the rest of us to do? Why are the trees not harvested according to strict FSC [Forest Stewardship Council] standards, and why is there large-scale irreparable damage done to local indigenous forests?

Why are the trees not available as specified in her contract on auction to locals and furniture makers, but earmarked for export?

The whole process reeks of political connections and interference on a grand scale.

If she does to tourism what she has done to the local furniture industry, we are in dire straits.

If any of my statements

are proved false, I will personally and publicly apologise.

Pieter Boshoff, Plett Noksie Kolwapi responds as follows: Thank you, Pieter, for your opinion - everybody has a right to his or her opinion.

However, a person should do extensive research before alluding to anything somebody may have done, as assuming is not enough and sometimes creates embarrassment.

I have never been an employee of Bitou Municipality or any government department.

I would love to remind you that I have voluntarily served the Plett Tourism Association for the past six years. Recruited and

nominated for a community interest, I have been an actively-contributing member ever since.

That alone should give you comfort.

Whatever you are saying about my business, I will leave to SANParks to explain, as it is their name that you are dragging through the mud. It rests solely with them to protect their integrity.

I would like to reiterate that your statement is misinformed and goes against what our government is working hard to address, namely equality and the development of black women in business.

Thank you.

(This letter has been forwarded to SANParks for comment. - Eds.)

Don’t set paws on the track without your poo bag!

Supplies now needed for community servers

Dear dog owners, please remember to take along a poo bag before you start your walk on the beach and surrounds. If you have a permanent dog walker, please remind them, too. We urge dog owners to pick up their dogs’ deposits, especially along the brick path that runs parallel to Robberg Beach. Please note that PAWS and CVC poo bags are always available.

- Tina van Reenen, Plett

The Plett Industria Community Kitchen is in desperate need of especially vegetarian supplies to feed volunteer workers who attend its local community service programme. If you can help, please send your food aid to the head of the community kitchen, Venus, who will greatly appreciate your donations of lentils, rice, vegetables, spices, and bread to also feed the volunteers pictured above, who are cleaning up the Industrial Area for the benefit of residents and visitors both. All are welcome to attend the community service meetings hosted for Plett business supporters, service providers and suppliers, at no charge, held at the Plett Industria Hanger (next to Bossiesgif entrance) at 10am from Monday to Friday. For more information contact me at msa1wp@gmail.com or on 081 318 9193.

- Mignonne Shayle Anderson, Plett

A showcase not only for talent, but community upliftment, too The prayers of many Bitou residents - for a platform to showcase local talent and advance careers - have now been answered, as Plett’s Got Talent 2019 has arrived.

Organised by the Youth Crime Prevention Desk (YCPD) in conjunction with Wildene Jackson and Three Counts Records, this talent search will see people from all over Bitou go head to head to be crowned Plett’s Got Talent 2019 winner.

We have many examples

of talent from our own backyard holding Plett’s name high in places like Cape Town and Jozi. To keep that river flowing we need to polish and expose this talent.

A wonderful thing about any competition is that anyone can win and this one has great prizes to offer, the best being the title of Plett’s Got Talent winner.

Everyone is encouraged to participate, from rappers and singers to dancers, actors, beatboxers

and poets; from experienced acts used to perform in public to those who have never displayed their talent in public.

Deadline for registration is Thursday October 31, but Bitou residents are invited to experience an electrifying environment on Saturday September 7 at the New Horizons civic centre, and to help their favourite acts by vote to go through to the next round and advance to the finals.

Plett’s Got Talent is

unique as it is not only about showcasing talent, but also about using the platform to advocate positive change. All participants and the winner will be tasked to make their voices heard in the fight against drugs, crime, abuse and bullying across all Plett communities and across all age groups.

Renecia Leonard, Plett (To register or for additional information, email renecialeonard@gmail. com before the end of October. - Eds.)

CXPRESS

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SPORT & ADVENTURE

4 September 2019

Give it up for these two stars as they are heading east for international sporting glory

Leolin Petersen, 13, New Horizons

EOLIN Petersen is no stranger to these pages, having delivered newsworthy performances on the trampoline and in other gymnastic disciplines since she was just a pup.

She was recently the only girl to be selected nationally for an 18-member SA team to participate in the International Federation of Gymnastics Trampoline World Champs held in Tokyo, Japan during November and December. Leolin’s travel, kit, and competition costs are in excess of R35,000.

Her mom’s indefatigable efforts to raise funds enabling her daughter’s various forays in pursuit of national achievement have been widely publicised, and this time is no different.

Most famous of mom Helen Bezuidenhout’s fundraising efforts may be her prolific production of hertzoggies - the traditional coconut and jam confectionary that’s been a South African favourite for centuries.

By going to print, Helen had already baked in excess of 270-dozen hertzoggies for the Japan excursion. Not only must the ‘cookie bucks’ spring for the above-mentioned costs, but the fact that it’s sure to be bitterly cold in Japan that time of year, means Leolin needs a bunch of winter clothes.

You haven’t lived until you’ve tasted Helen’s hertzoggies, so give her a bell on 060 648 0407 to order, or for banking details if you would like to boost their fundraising efforts with a donation.

Alternatively, sign up for

L

WRITTEN & PERFORMED BY MICHAEL CHARTON (“MY FATHER’S COAT”)

THE FIRST WORLD CHAMPIONS THE UNTOLD STORY OF THE 1937 SPRINGBOKS IN NEW ZEALAND

ENQUIRIES: DAVID 082 414 1822

Saturday’s Fun Quiz Night, when this popular event held at Plett Bowling Club will raise funds for this young New Horizons resident.

The action starts at 6pm for 6:30pm on September 7. The cost of R600 per team (max of six members) includes a light supper and there are great prizes to be won.

To book or donate towards Leolin’s cause, contact Barry Ricketts at barryricketts 48@hotmail.com or on 072 890 6238.

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Ellen Kleinsmidt, 17, Kranshoek

A Grade 11 student at Outeniqua High in George, Ellen Kleinsmidt is a born and bred Plett lass, where she has earned the reputation of the town’s foremost go-getter.

Having excelled at most sports throughout her school career so far, including reaching the podium at Athletics SA national championships on numerous occasions, it’s possibly on the beach where most townsfolk would have witnessed the particular sports gene that has gained her the title of Plett Surf Life Saving Club’s Sportswoman of the Year... again.

Invariably, after Nippers (aged 8-14) and SA Lifesaving (U14 to various adult categories) national championships, Ellen has returned to Plett hauling medals for beach sprints and flags, the latter generally regarded as the sport’s most spectacular and technically demanding challenge.

Explains Isabelle Brink of Born in Africa, which

first introduced the Family Kleinsmidt to this popular sport: “At the Port Elizabeth Lifesaving Nationals in March this year, Ellen won gold medals for beach sprint and flags, and repeated this incredible feat at the Interprovincial Champs in Cape Town in April.

“Recently, she was selected to represent the Springbok team at the International Lifesaving Champs in Durban from September 25 to October 4, and we wish her the best of luck, while asking the Plett community to support her fundraising efforts.”

Isabelle adds that Ellen is a true inspiration to many kids in her Kranshoek community and further afield, as she selflessly assists the Adopt a Swimmer team - “so they, too, can learn to become champions just like Ellen!”

For the 2019 International Surf Rescue Championship, Ellen and her fellow Springboks will stay in Durban for 10 days. Adding up all costs, she needs around R15,000 for this purpose, i.e. transport to Port Elizabeth, flights to Durban and back, accommodation, food, and her Springbok kit.

Ellen is raising funds by selling raffle tickets for amazing prizes and vouchers, so for as little as R20 per ticket, you stand a chance of winning big. Raffle tickets are available from The Table in Plett Main Street or contact mom Delina Kleinsmidt on 076 389 0355 or email info@borninafrica. org for more information.

Readers can also deposit funds straight into the Born in Africa account (reference: Ellen to Durban), account number 6204 929 1298, FNB Plett (branch code 210514 / SWIFT code FIRNZAJJ), and it will be paid into the Life Saving SA account to help cover costs.

Says Ellen to CXPRESS readers: “I really appreciate your support and belief in my abilities. I will give it my all to make you proud in Durban.” She thanks Plett Surf and Born in Africa for their continued support.

Storms River Michael stumbled upon the story of the 1937 Springboks in an old second hand bookstore on Long Street, Cape Town. A chance encounter which has inspired an improbable adventure.

Because what began as the mundane process of tracking down more material on this tour, soon transformed into something bigger: a journey into the heart and heritage of a unique rivalry within a unique sport. Indeed this is the story of a peculiar pastime. A game of contradictions, where intense physical confrontation is carefully balanced by an unlikely value system.

the quest for a champion of world rugby had been left unresolved following their two tied series’ of 1921 and 1928. So this third encounter between the world’s (then) rugby giants, would be the most anticipated series in the history of the game.

And as if the contest needed more hype, both of those previous tours had been tarnished by unfortunate race incidents, so dictating that this tour would involve far more than just rugby.

Instead, this would emerge as a very human story: A carefully woven narrative involving a motley crew of farmers, students, teachers, and one unlikely banker, And nowhere are these contradictions more evident, than who were (for a moment) freed of the throttling political in the famous rivalry which emerged between the narrative in South Africa, and allowed to express Springboks and the All Blacks in the early 20th century. themselves as both rugby players and as human beings.

For here were two lands, bound tightly by a shared passion for rugby, but also deeply divided by their politics. Countries where rugby has transcended mere sport, so providing the foundations of a fiery rivalry which has at times both torn-apart and united both of our nations.

They did so famously, and in the process, captured the imagination of the generation of New Zealanders.

Indeed, even in the midst of this most brutal of rugby rivalries, the sportsmanship and value systems of these teams leap out at you through their characters. A celebration of the chivalry associated with the amateur But 1937 was special. Because the Springboks and the era, and a powerful reminder, through an emotional All Blacks had by then asserted their dominance over the sense of nostalgia, what is truly important in life and rugby world. Yet, through a bizarre sequence of events, legacy.

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