6th March 2019 by CXpress

6 March 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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Gas find a game changer p3

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Environmental outreach educators of the Two Oceans Aquarium’s Turtle Rescue Programme are heading for coastal communities of the Southern Cape to recruit a new generation of turtle rescuers for the stranding season, which officially kicked off on March 1. Turn to page 2 to find out more.

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CXPRESS

NEWS & VIEWS

6 March 2019

Become part of the sea turtle network in Wilderness, on Monday, was followed by jured, many hatchlings find Knysna, and Plett an event at the African Penthemselves stranded on the N Monday March 4, the Two Oceans Aquarium’s environmental outreach educators and Turtle Rescue team hit the N2 out of Cape Town and are currently travelling between the coastal communities of the Southern Cape to educate a new generation of turtle rescuers for the upcoming stranding season. The Turtle Road Trip crew planned stops at seven network points where members of the public are invited to meet the conservation team, and learn how they can save a turtle - after all, it won’t be a veterinarian who stumbles across a stranded animal, it will be someone just like you. This year’s Turtle Road Trip will also be visiting with hundreds of school children in these communities to foster a love for the ocean through interactive educational activities, hopefully creating future turtle rescuers who are inspired into taking action should the need arise. These school visits will be carried out by professional educators using the Oceans in Motion mobile classroom to deliver their critical lessons. Turtles in need

March marks the beginning of ‘turtle stranding season’ in our province. Thousands of loggerhead and leatherback turtles hatch on the beaches of northern KwaZulu-Natal, and begin their long journey to the sea, eventually to be carried southward in the warm waters of the Agulhas current. This journey is not easy; every hatchling will face high levels of predation, strong currents, and plastic pollution. Stunned by cold, dehydrated and in-

beaches of the Southern Cape. This year the Turtle Trippers are expanding on the success of the 2018 road trip, which established the Turtle Rescue Network - a collaboration of coastal organisations working with Southern Cape communities to get rescued sea turtles to the Two Oceans Aquarium for emergency care as quickly as possible. Join these local Turtle Road Trip events The first stop, in Hermanus

FIRST OF MANY FOUNDLINGS: This hatchling was rescued in Wilderness on Friday March 1 and taken to Tenikwa Wildlife Centre in Plett, whence staff ensure the turtles get to Two Oceans Aquarium marking the start of turtle stranding season - Photos: Talitha Noble

guin and Seabird Sanctuary in Gansbaai on Tuesday. Today (March 6), the Turtle Road Trip will enlighten residents of Witsand and Stilbaai, before heading to the Garden Route. Meet them here: • Wilderness at the SANParks Ebb and Flow Rest Camp on Thursday March 7 at 4:30pm • Knysna at the SANParks office on Thesen Islands on Friday March 8 at 3pm • Plett’s NSRI Station 14 on Saturday March 9 at 3pm. At each of these stops, you can join the turtle conservation team for a short presentation about what you can do to help sea turtles, as well as the work being done at Two Oceans Aquarium to help stranded hatchlings. You will learn how you can help saving stranded turtles that you might encounter, and what you can do to make their lives a little easier the other 364 days of the year, too. Events at the stops are open for all to attend; all you are asked in return is that you help save our turtles by spreading the message you hear using the #TurtleRoadTrip hashtag. Visit https://www.aquarium. co.za for further information.

Alvi’s near-death experience, thanks to plastic in our oceans On November 18, during a weekend at Struisbaai, the McQillan family found a sea turtle washed up on the beach. With the help of members of the local NSRI, the turtle was rescued. The NSRI, a member of the Turtle Rescue Network, contacted Two Oceans Aquarium. The family then drove for three hours to bring the turtle to the aquarium where treatment started immediately. The green sea turtle, weighing 23kg, was very weak but stable upon arrival and didn’t have too many external growths and only minor visible injuries. It was quickly realised, however, that the turtle was showing signs of laboured breathing. Suspecting a possible lung infection or pneumonia, antibiotics and supportive medication were administrated, but over the next couple of days the turtle became weaker. Five days after its arrival, a barium study was done and it was confirmed that the turtle had some kind of obstruction in its oesophagus and that specialised equipment would be required. A few vets were contacted and finally it was established that Dr Malan van Zyl at the Cape Animal Medical Centre had the only endoscope in Cape Town that fit the criteria of being thin enough, long enough, able to blow air, and with gripping abilities. In 10 days, the turtle (he was named ‘Alvi’) had gone from being found on a beach, admitted to the rehabilitation facility, X-rays and treatment done, and had a piece of a plastic bag removed from its throat. Alvi is being monitored as part of the Turtle Rehabilitation and Release Programme.

Advanced Hearing

NEWS & VIEWS

6 March 2019

CXPRESS

Riots over housing and services continue to flare up in Garden Route towns Plettenberg Bay and Knysna have been plagued by protest action during the past fortnight over issues ranging from housing to service delivery - YOLANDÉ STANDER reports HE latest wave of mass dissent hit Knysna and Kranshoek, following a series of riots in Plett over the past two weeks. Residents of Smutsville in Sedgefield gathered on Sunday night for what is believed to have been a housing protest - an issue that has plagued the community for an extended period and also led to violent protests in June last year. The protesting continued during the course of Monday morning and saw police using force to disperse the crowd. According to Southern Cape police spokesman captain Malcolm Pojie, public order police had to use stun grenades and rubber bullets when the crowd started pelting police with stones. Pojie said four people between the ages of 23 and

35 had been arrested and would appear in court on charges of public violence. Knysna municipal spokesman Christopher Bezuidenhout confirmed that the protests involved housing issues. “The municipality acknowledges the rights of people to protest, but is completely opposed to actions that may injure others or impact on service delivery. Refuse collection and septic tank removals could not take place today as a result of the protest action. “The community is aware that the housing application has been submitted to the provincial Human Settlements department and that the municipality is awaiting feedback. “While we understand the community’s frustration, the protest was not necessary since they [the community]

are aware of the submission,” Bezuidenhout said. On Friday, both Plett and Knysna were hit with more protesting. In Knysna several residents gathered on the N2 near Nekkies on the outskirts of the holiday town over what is believed to have been service delivery issues. Protesting led to the closure of the N2 into Knysna in peak traffic on Friday morning. The crowds were, however, later dispersed. Bezuidenhout said residents claimed that the action was over service delivery related issues. “The municipality is still investigating the legitimacy of the allegations. Regrettably, we have no further comment at this stage.” On Thursday night, several Kranshoek residents gathered and started burning tyres over housing issues forcing the closure of Air-

Gas found at Brulpadda may well be a game changer. energy game changer In a recent statement on the ANY South African politicians, economists, and specialists in the energy sector are celebrating the news that a promising show of natural gas has been discovered in deep water south of Mossel Bay. It was found in an offshore

prospecting area called Brulpadda (Afrikaans for ‘bullfrog’), which is licensed to global energy giant Total. The discovery, coming against the backdrop of rising fuel prices and an electricity utility in crisis, has raised hopes that it may be

FLEETING: The Pacific Dragon joined the Total project halfway through the drilling programme and has only visited the Port of Mossel Bay once, as she has a deeper draught and is tide dependant, with a bollard pull of 220-238 tonnes and deadweight of 4542.84 tonnes

subject, the South African government said: “Cabinet has lauded the offshore discovery of gas condensate by oil company Total that could contain one-billion barrels of resources, which will significantly boost the country’s oil and gas supplies.” It added that the gas discovery ties into government’s efforts to develop the “ocean economy” through the second phase of its Operation Phakisa. Total’s drilling campaign commenced last November and is due to be completed this month. It involves one rig, the Deepsea Stavanger, and a fleet of four vessels Bourbon Diamond, Pacific Dragon, Far Starling, and Normand Ranger - all of which are managed by AfriShore Shipping on behalf of Total.

port Road during the night and the following morning. Bitou municipal spokesman Manfred van Rooyen confirmed that the action was around housing issues. Police managed to disperse the crowd during the course of Friday morning. Bezuidenhout said on

February 25, Rheenendal residents also protested over housing matters. “These issues relate to the land invasion which took place in Rheenendal in May 2018. To address the recent concerns, additional ablution facilities and water connections will be installed as per the approved ratio. Emergency access roads will also be constructed to enable easy access for emergency vehicles. “The housing project ap-

plication has already been submitted to the provincial human settlements department [as reported last year] and the community is aware of this. The ward councillor also keeps the residents informed through regular feedback meetings.” The recent riots followed crippling protests in KwaNokuthula and Qolweni on February 19 and 20. • See page 3 of the February 27 edition at www.cxpress.co.za for the full report.

CXPRESS

NEWS & VIEWS

6 March 2019

Dentist jailed for three years; anti-child abuse lobby says ‘throw away the key’ Almost four years since his arrest over sex crimes against a child, a well-known George dentist was finally sentenced - YOLANDÉ STANDER reports ATHER of three Ian Venter was sentenced to three years behind bars in the George Circuit High Court last week for “unlawfully and intentionally” violating a 12-year-old boy by asking him to touch his genitals. He was convicted last year of sexually assaulting the boy during a sleepover at his Herold’s Bay home on April 11, 2015 - this after Venter was sentenced just months earlier, in December 2014, to four years under house arrest following his conviction on several charges including sex with a minor boy. Over and above the latest sentence, Venter’s particulars are to be included in the National Register for Sex Offenders, and he has been found to be unsuitable to work with children. Immediately after sentencing, Venter brought an application to appeal his sentence, but this

F INTO THE FRYING PAN: Ian Venter in the dock before being taken to the cells he will call ‘home’ for three long years - Photo: Supplied

was denied by magistrate Francis Makamandela. Women and Men Against Child Abuse (WMACA) Western Cape spokesman Joanne Barrett said they were appalled by the three-year sentence, “especially as this is his second offence”. “Following his first conviction, he committed another sexual offence involving a child. We as

dren concerned - his own children and the victims. “We advocate for children’s rights and really feel child sexual abuse cases should warrant much harsher sentences. The Children’s Act clearly states that children have a right to safety and should be free from violence and abuse,” said Barrett. “While we are unhappy with the sentence term,

‘After having lengthy delays in court due to the well-being of his children and numerous social worker reports, we find the fact that Venter was found with 100 Azor tablets smuggled in his socks atrocious. He has constantly appealed that his children needed him.’ an organisation feel he made a mockery of the justice system as well as showing absolutely no remorse for his shocking crime,” Barrett said. During sentencing, Makamandela said she felt she needed to keep a fair balance and consider all chil-

we are content that direct imprisonment was enforced. Venter will be behind lock and key tonight and another child sexual abuser and predator is off our streets. There is some hope that our children are a little safer today.” While being inspected

by correctional services personnel on his way to prison, Venter was found with 100 Azor tablets smuggled in his socks. “After having lengthy delays in court due to the well-being of his children and numerous social worker reports, we find this [smuggling of tranquilisers] atrocious. He has constantly appealed that his children needed him as he is their primary caregiver, and that they would not be able to live without him. “This behaviour speaks volumes in terms of his role as a father, caregiver, and the welfare of his children. He has clearly used his children right through this trial to try and keep out of jail. “Well, he has finally trumped his last card. As an organisation, in this case we would have preferred for the key to be thrown away,” concluded Barrett.

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N Wednesday February 13, a local resident reported a number of bird deaths in the Rondevlei area in close proximity to Divisional Road 1614. The resident alluded to the possibility that herbicides used by the district municipality’s Roads and Transport Planning department along the road reserve may have caused these deaths. However, in a statement released on Monday, Garden Route District Municipality (GRDM) spokesman Herman Pieters

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claimed that lab tests to ascertain the cause of death had indicated otherwise. “On February 15, SANParks informed the GRDM that the bird deaths were caused by a disease known as avian botulism - a neuromuscular illness of birds caused by a toxin that is produced by the bacterium Clostridium botulinum. “Fish-eating birds are poisoned when consuming fish that contain the toxin. Ingestion of maggots from the carcass of an infected animal can continue the spread of avi-

an botulism,” said Pieters. “Avian botulism is most prevalent during summer months. The decease cannot be transmitted to humans, but as a precautionary measure SANParks rangers collected the carcasses daily.” SANParks also indicated that a statement in this regard would be released, according to Pieters. “Various departments in the GRDM responded promptly to establish the cause of the bird deaths, and to determine whether we held any liability,” he said.

“Although we could establish that the deaths were NOT caused by herbicides used by our Roads and Transport Planning Services, we will endeavour to exercise caution in the selection of herbicides used for roadreserve management and the effect that it may have on the receiving environment,” Pieters concluded. Contact him at Herman@gardenroute.gov. za or on 044 803 1419 and turn to page 4 of the February 20 edition at www.cxpress.co.za to find out more.

NEWS & VIEWS

6 March 2019

CXPRESS

‘Holistic’ Hoekwil farmer questions millennia of human agriculture Correspondent BOB HOPKIN shares organic farmer Peter Leppan’s views on natural cultivation on the Garden Route

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BUZZY: Peter shows some of his rudimentary but effective bug-counting tools - Photo: Bob Hopkin

ISTORY teaches that early man learned to survive as hunter gatherers, killing wild animals for protein while eating nuts, berries, and bulbs for vitamins and carbohydrates - although, of course, they didn’t realise at the time that they were just responding to their bodies’ needs. Later came the evolution from passive food harvesting to an active approach when, firstly, about 11,000BC, they began to domesticate pigs and then sheep, to have access to ‘meat on the hoof’. Later still came the domestication of plants with growing wheat, barley, peas, lentils, and flax in the area of the Middle East known as the Levant, between the Tigris and Euphrates rivers, around 9,500BC. Later still, the Chinese began rice cultivation (6,200BC). In modern times mechanised farming, needing far less manual labour, began in the early 1900s and subsequently the invention of fertilisers and pesticides increased crop yields massively. Unfortunately, according to farmer Peter Leppan, this

rapid development of agriculture has led to over-usage of damaging chemicals and the spreading of diseases, thanks to the use of delivery and collection vehicles. Peter was speaking at the most recent residents association gathering at Wilderness Hotel, not far from his farm at Hoekwil. As a Brassica farmer, specialising in growing Brussels sprouts and celery, he is intimately involved in efforts to prevent the spread of Clubroot - a disease that destroys these kind of crops and can remain active but dormant in the soil for up to 20 years. In addition, he learned that over-use of pesticides results in the development of “superbugs” that become ever more resistant to chemical control. In an innovative move Peter now imports benign insects from Europe that he releases on the farm to counter the aggressive local species, and uses sticky catch plates in the fields to monitor the balance of species. Control of insects is vital, he explained, as fungal infections gain entry to the plants through the insect

bite marks. “After fighting diseases and insect infestations over the years, in the recent past I decided that, if the farm was to continue to prosper, I had to take a new approach and get away from the ever-increasing use of pesticides and fertilisers that ultimately are toxic elements that remain in the soil and the product when it goes to market,” he said. Inspired by the teachings of agricultural guru Graeme Sait - a New Zealander with, at the time, radical views on contemporary farming methods - he decided to move away from widespread use of manufactured chemicals in favour of natural composts made from animal waste as well as purchased natural products derived from seaweed and waste fish protein. Peter’s thorough farming methods are clearly successful as he has become a trusted supplier to all of the major local supermarket chains. He also exports his products to European markets during their severe winters when farming there is impossible.

CXPRESS

NEWS & VIEWS

6 March 2019

Adam Habib in Knysna for feast of books and authors HERE’S excitement in the air this week as organisers are busy with the final preparations for the 10th Knysna Literary Festival, which kicks off on Friday. Festival founder - and owner of Pam Golding Properties in Knysna in Plett, which sponsors the event - Ling Dobson said this is the last chance for the public to buy their tickets. “There are still some tickets available, but you will have to act fast. One event that I think will provide food for thought, especially for those of us concerned about the state of universities in South Africa, is Adam Habib’s discussion of his new book Rebels and Rage. “Adam was one of the most prominent and outspoken university officials through the recent student protests. In his book he takes a characteristically frank view of the past three

POLITICAL SCIENTIST: Adam Habib was an activist during the struggle against apartheid

years on South Africa’s campuses,” she explained. Habib charts the progress of the student protests that erupted on Wits University campus in late 2015 and raged for the better part of three years, drawing on his own intimate involvement and negotiation with the students, and also records the responses of university management and government to these events. He critically examines the student movement and

individual student leaders who emerged under the banners #feesmustfall and #Rhodesmustfall, and debates how to achieve truly progressive social change in South Africa, on and off of our campuses. This book is both an attempt at historical account and a thoughtful reflection on issues the protests kicked up, from the perspective not only of a high-ranking member of university management, but also from Habib as political scientist with a background as an activist during the struggle against apartheid. He joins 12 authors from all over SA who start arriving from tomorrow for their slot on the festival programme, described by Dobson as “thought-provoking and exciting”. Visit www.knysnaliterary festival.co.za or call 044 382 5574 for the full programme.

Star Penny Puppet Theatre has the power to educate and enthral UPPETRY is an ancient healing art for all ages, and readers can now share in this particular brand of magic. A spell is cast over children and grown-ups alike when lovingly handmade puppets are brought to life. Star Penny Puppet Theatre debuted on December 12 last year to an audience of 40 Village Eco Preschool kids, when Brothers Grimm classic The Frog Prince was performed by puppeteers Laurine le Roux and Catinka van Vlaanderen, and narrator Yvette Worrall. Amid an atmosphere of lyre music, exquisite singing and masterful narration, the puppets glowed with spirit and the children were open-mouthed as the frog changed into a “handsome prince, who looked at her so kindly…” Explains Laurine: “It was my dream many years ago to bring puppetry as a healing art to the children of Plett and surrounds. I am a retired Waldorf pre-school teacher and throughout my teaching career, I’ve used puppetry extensively.

“In fact, figures - be they little folk I took out of my apron, or real standing puppets for a table play - have been used in most of my story telling over the years.” Laurine is now well away on her puppeteering journey, having built her theatre and shown The Frog Prince to warm reception from the Village Eco Preschool kids before launching this year’s programme, which kicked off at New Horizons Public Library on February 28. “We would like to show The Frog Prince and other puppet stories to the children at schools and preschools in Plett, New Horizons, KwaNokuthula and surrounds, as our finances allow,” enthuses Laurine.

FIGURINES IN HER FROCK: Laurine entertains children with her clever puppet apron

But for this retired educator and her mobile puppet theatre to bring stories to the public and particularly to scholars, sponsorships is of the essence. Contact Laurine on 071 577 2927 or email laurine8@ telkomsa.net if you would like to get involved. ONCE A FROG: ‘Faithful Henry,’ said the Prince, ‘come and meet my Princess…’ - narrator Yvette Worrall

BUSINESS

Investor Focus

6 March 2019 Malcolm Stewart – Investment manager at Michaelides Parker Wealth Knysna & Plett

Your financial plan - Part I ITH weak market conditions having persisted for almost three years, now is a good time to revisit your financial plan. Low values for your Living Annuity, negative performance in your portfolio, and the amazing rise in “retirement costs” create an environment where negative emotions tend to drive investment decisions. Emotion-driven reactions often lead to poor decisions and eventual distress in your retirement. Cash or money markets have been the best performers over the last three years, however, if one considers the impact of inflation and tax on these investments, then they have only been able to hold their value in real terms. So how do you proceed to revisit or create your financial plan? Start by drafting your personal profile as follows… Personal profi le Age (both partners): If you are in your 60s, plan for at least a 20-year retirement - if not 25 years - and invest accordingly. Retir-

ees in their 70s must plan for a 10-year or, more likely, a 15-year retirement. Children: Are they dependants or self-sufficient; do they live in South Africa? (Grannies need to visit grandchildren!) These issues often derail a good retirement plan. Health: The first step is to insure you have a good medical aid. Hospital stays can cost as much as R1-million and wipe out a huge part of your retirement nest egg. At the same time, you may be a healthy 80-year-old who is around for another decade! Your partner may be much younger and need cover for an extended period. Transport: With no public transport to speak of, we rely on our cars. How old is yours? Will you need to replace it? Do you need two cars? How long will your tyres last? For the cost of a new car, kiss goodbye to R200,000 of your retirement nest egg! Budget: It is absolutely essential to establish exactly what your annual budget is. Many retirees

know their monthly running costs, but do not plan for annual costs, e.g. club membership fees, timeshare levies, Christmas bonuses for staff, car licences, the cost of visiting family (or when they visit you…) - the list can go on forever. Financial profi le To assess your current financial profile, tabulate all assets, examine the income they generate, and see that they are protected from inflation. Pension: If from a company, then consider its current value and check on any inflationary adjustments. Living Annuities: Many pensioners have L/As; check how much income is actually generated and how much you are drawing. How long will it last at the current withdrawal rate? What assets does it hold (i.e. the asset allocation between equities, property, bonds, prefs, and cash)? How much is exposed to offshore markets? Do current withdrawals meet your budget needs? Portfolio: Revisit your

asset allocation within the portfolio and doublecheck the split between the various asset classes. Cash: How much shortterm cash do you have in the bank? Will it meet any sudden needs? Is it too much, considering inflation and tax? Having tabulated your total assets, ascribe an income level to each asset class, e.g. 4% from equities, 9% from property trusts (REITS), 8% from bonds, and 7% from cash. You may hold one of several guaranteed products offering over 12% over five years, etc. Remember, this is “compound interest”. You now have the information needed to check your financial plan. It should be a serious guide to your required asset allocation. The next step will feature in the following Investor Focus column. • Malcolm has been in the investment industry for nearly 50 years. He has written this column in CXPRESS for the last 20 years and is a specialist in managing retired wealth. See the advert on this page for contact details.

CXPRESS

INTERVAL

6 March 2019

Strange but true newspaper stories From The Atlanta Daily Classified: Single black female seeks male companionship, ethnicity unimportant. I’m a very good-looking girl who loves to play. I love long walks in the woods, riding in your pickup truck, hunting, camping and fishing trips, and cosy winter nights lying by the fire. Candlelight dinners will have me eating out of your hand. Rub me the right way and watch me respond. I’ll be at the front door when you get home from work, wearing only what nature gave me. Kiss me and I’m yours. Call me and ask for Daisy. (Over 15,000 men found themselves talking to the Atlanta Humane Society about an eight-week-old black Labrador retriever.) From The Guardian Concerning a sign seen in a police canteen in Christchurch, New Zealand: Will the person who took a slice of cake from the Commissioner’s office return it immediately. It is needed as evidence in a poisoning case. British news from the Churchdown Parish Magazine Would the congregation please note that the bowl at the back of the Church labelled ‘For the Sick’ is for monetary donations only. CORRECTIONS… From The Daily Telegraph A piece headed ‘Brussels Pays 200,000 Pounds to Save Prostitutes’: ...the money will not be going directly into the prostitutes’ pocket, but will be used to encourage them to lead a better life. We will be training them for new positions in hotels. From The Derby Abbey Community News We apologise for the error in the last edition, in which we stated that “Mr

Fred Nicolme is a Defective in the Police Force”. This was a typographical error. We meant of course that Mr Nicolme is a Detective in the Police Farce. From The Gloucester Citizen A caller complained to Trading Standards. After dialling an 0891 number from an advertisement entitled ‘Hear Me Moan’, the caller was played a tape of a woman nagging her husband for failing to do jobs around the house. Consumer watchdogs in Dorset refused to look into the complaint, saying: “He got what he deserved.” A GUIDE TO AMERICAN NEWSPAPERS… • The Wall Street Journal is read by the people who run the country. • The New York Times is read by people who think they run the country. • The Washington Post is read by people who think they should run the country. • USA Today is read by people who think they ought to run the country but don’t really understand The Washington Post. They do, however, like the smog statistics shown in pie charts. • The Los Angeles Times is read by people who wouldn’t mind running the country, if they could spare the time, and if they didn’t have to leave LA to do it. • The Boston Globe is read by people whose parents used to run the country. • The New York Daily News is read by people who aren’t too sure who’s running the country, and don’t really care as long as they can get a seat on the train. • The New York Post is read by people who don’t care who’s running the

country either, as long as they do something really scandalous - preferably while intoxicated. • The San Francisco Chronicle is read by people who aren’t sure there is a country, or that anyone is running it; but whoever it is, they oppose all that they stand for. There are occasional exceptions if the leaders are handicapped minorities or feministic atheist dwarfs, who happen to be illegal aliens from any country or galaxy as long as they are Democrats. • The Miami Herald is read by people who are running another country, but who need the baseball scores.

AND FINALLY… Roget’s Thesaurus Update A lorry loaded with thousands of copies of Roget’s Thesaurus crashed as it left a Manchester publishing house, according to a daily newspaper. When police caught up with the witnesses, they found them stunned, startled, aghast, taken aback, stupefied, confused, punchy, shocked, rattled, paralyzed, dazed, bewildered, mixed up, surprised, awed, dumbfounded, nonplussed, flabbergasted, astounded, amazed, confounded, astonished, boggled, overwhelmed, horrified, numbed, and perplexed.

He hates riding in the back, so I let him sit up front with my dog.

I opened my electricity bill at the same time I opened my water bill. Needless to say, I was shocked.

SOCIAL SCENE

6 March 2019

CXPRESS

ZEAL BREEDS ZEST: Tshisa Talent have been holding auditions at local high schools to uncover talent, and the enthusiasm from both learners and educators at Plett Secondary, Murray High and Percy Mdala High has been most heartening. After uncovering more talent at Knysna Secondary on February 13, a competition showcasing the best of the best has now been scheduled to take place at KwaNokuthula Primary on March 21. All of this talent sharing is being enabled by the National Lotteries Commission, and the Tshisa team invites everyone to check out their Facebook page for details, and to see how Tshisa Talent makes dreams come true. At left, Grace Harrison interviews a student in the background, with Gaillene Isaks and Maphiko Mncedisi KaNcedani flanking educator Mluleki Penxq from Percy Mdala High in front. Watch this space in the next edition for details on this month’s Tshisa showcase. - Photo: Lunchbox Theatre

MEDALS AND MUSICAL GLAM: The Knysna Plett Concert Series presents pianist Olga Kern on Monday March 11. Says Knysna Music Society chair Penny Smythe-Rathbone: “We have waited for three years to welcome back to Knysna this most glamorous of pianists who thrills audiences with her remarkable talent. Ms Kern was the winner of a first prize at the Rachmaninov International Piano Competition at the age of 17. She has toured extensively throughout Russia, Korea, Japan and the United States, and is a corresponding member of the Russian Academy of Sciences: Division of the Arts. In 1996 she was the recipient of an Honorary Scholarship from the president of Russia. In 2017, Olga received the Ellis Island Medal of Honour which is given to those who ‘embody the spirit of America in their salute to tolerance, brotherhood, diversity and patriotism’. Ms Kern will play works by Schumann, Gershwin and Rachmaninov, among others. This will be an evening of fabulous music played by a star performer, so don’t miss it!” Be at Knysna Dutch Reformed Church hall in Fichat Street from 6:45pm onwards this Monday. Tickets are sold at the door (R150, R50 for scholars) and the show starts at 7:30pm. - Photo: Chris Lee

A DECADE OF LITERARY ENLIGHTENMENT: From left, Angie Lander, Renay Philander and Sandy Steyn from Pam Golding Properties toast the Knysna Literary Festival’s 10year celebration. Turn to page 6 to find out more about this weekend’s much-awaited event.

NEVER TOO OLD TO LOVE: The most recent event organised by Zeelas Charity Shop was a Valentine’s lunch held at The Crescent Old Age Home in Plettenberg Bay. Pictured above are some of the Crescent crowd enjoying their scrumptious lunch. Below are Mrs and Mr Valentine winners Beatrix Jordaan and Darwin Wright. Zarefa Peters and Bianca Claassen from Zeelas thank sponsors Trish Braum, Doves, and Leela Verity for enabling this fun day, which brought tremendous joy to the Crescent residents on a very special day. Photos: LM Dunn

STRIKE A LOVE POSE: ACE Models in Knysna had their Valentine’s fun day at Woodmill Lane on February 14. Pictured from left are Deshuandre Toljan, 11, Nazeem Grootboom, 19, and Dylan du Plessis, 8 - ACE models one and all. Photo: LM Dunn

People, places & events

CXPRESS

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6 March 2019

CLASSIFIEDS

ON THE SOAPBOX

6 March 2019

Letters to the Editor

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

Bitou embarking on massive battle against invasive alien plants infestation CXPRESS was recently copied on a letter to Bitou’s head of Strategic Services, to which newly-appointed Environmental Management officer ANJÉ TALJAARD responded with information relevant to all landowners In light of the devastating fires that swept through the Plettenberg Bay Airport in June 2017, and then went on to cause substantial damage and destruction in parts of Plett, I find it astonishing that the Municipality has allowed a flourishing forest of invasive bush, mainly Port Jackson Willow, I believe, to thrive all over the airport precinct. Does the Municipality have any plans in place to remove this alien bush from the airport property, and, if so, when will it be done? Over and above this particular site, there are various varieties of invasive bush thriving in numerous places all along the Plett Airport road, both in public spaces as well as on private properties. To what extent will Bitou Municipality be dealing with the problem in these areas? B Knight - Plettenberg Bay Ratepayer Dear Mr Knight, thank you for your concern in relation to our natural environment. Alien invasive

plant species and the management thereof is one of the greatest challenges faced by Bitou Municipality and private landowners within the municipal area. As you most likely are aware, these plants result in significant damage to our biodiversity, increased fire risk and a decreased amount of water entering into our catchment areas, to name but a few of their negative impacts. Infestation of these alien invasive plants is quite extensive and appropriate clearing and follow-up clearing takes time, manpower, and a great deal of finances. In relation to the Airport property, a contractor has been appointed to undertake clearing of the alien invasive vegetation, specifically Port Jackson, about two weeks ago. They are currently undertaking the works and should be completing within the next fortnight. This is under supervision of our Property Management division. Bitou Municipality is aware of the level of inva-

sive plant infestation (not limited to the portions along Airport Road) and are currently in the process of formulating and approving an Invasive Species Monitoring Control and Eradication Plan for all municipal-owned properties. This plan will comply with pertinent national legislation and will deal with the extent of the invasion found as well as detail a plan for how these areas are to be cleared of said aliens and managed. The plan will also detail the budget required and suggested timeframes in which the work is to be done. As this plan will cover an excess of 11,000ha it is understandable that certain natural areas or ecological infrastructure had been prioritised, being deemed of more importance as they deliver valuable ecosystem services enabling the better functioning of our natural environment. These include our catchment areas, areas that are protected or have high-bi-

odiversity values, fire-risk areas, etc. In terms of the National Environmental Management Biodiversity Act, Alien Invasive Species Regulations (2014), all landowners are responsible for the management of their properties of alien invasive plants and landowners are encouraged to undertake alien clearing in an environmentally sensitive manner - without the use of heavy machinery, without the disturbance of the topsoil and with the appropriate use of herbicides. Further information in regards to specific methods of clearing and legal requirements can be obtained from the Department of Environmental Affairs, Biosecurity Services (email aiscompliance@ environment.gov.za). I hope that this helps to address your concerns. Should you require any additional information please do not hesitate to contact me at ataljaard@ plett.gov.za or on 044 501 3318.

How can hazardous horses be allowed on Plett’s beaches? We are regular ‘swallows’ from the UK and we like nothing better than to walk along the pristine Keurbooms Beach, enjoying the natural beauty all around. Imagine then our horror last Saturday morning when confronted by three ladies riding horses along the stretch of beach by the bird-breeding sanctuary, endangering other beach users and leaving a trail of horse manure in their wake. This practice is taking place on a beach which has Blue Flag status in three sections; it has clear nature-conservation initiatives (including dog zones) in place, and it has been designated by Bitou Municipality as a ‘no-go

zone’ for horses. We are aware of the following facts: • Accessing Keurbooms Beach on a horse is not permitted due to safety issues on the single-track paths leading to the beach. • Horse prohibition signage is in place at the access points advising of the above situation. • Accessing the beach over steep dunes is in itself a hazard to horse, rider and other beach users. • Leaving behind manure of any kind on the beach contravenes municipal bylaws. So the question is: why are irresponsible horse owners allowed to get away with such brazen disregard for the law and public safety?

Bon voyage to our fish-loving friends Please would you publish this photograph and a great big THANK YOU for wonderful service and kind friendships with all fish lovers in Plettenberg Bay for many, many years. We wish Karin and Chris Kastern of Robberg Seafood all the best in new ventures, a welldeserved rest for a while, and many travels to enjoy. Thanks again! Myfanwy Bekker, Plett

We have pictures of the offenders in question and will happily share them with the authorities. We have also been advised that, when sighting horses on Keurbooms Beach, a call to the PBCPA hotline number 082 251 8134 will enable the operator to alert Municipal Law Enforcement, who will attend to the matter and deal with offenders. Hopefully this won’t be necessary, and the horse owners in question will see the error of their ways and exercise their horses in a more appropriate and safe environment. A&S - Suffolk, UK, by email Nature’s Valley Trust programme director Dr Mark Brown responds: A&S are totally correct with their assessment of the legality of this situation. What they encountered on the beach is highly illegal and irresponsible of those riders. The horse-on-beach issue is a hot potato, and has been dealt with extensively in the past through various public platforms. Suffice it to say, the response from the public, stakeholders, CapeNature, and Bitou have led to the status quo (of no horses in Plett) remaining in place. Sadly, instead of contin-

uing to engage authorities on the matter, some horse owners seem set on flouting the rules. Last year, there were horses ridden on the beach from the Beacon Island to Robberg, and several times on the stretch mentioned above in Keurbooms. Attempts from the public to engage these riders have sometimes been met with aggressive verbal responses, and even physical intimidation - as reported via various social media channels. Damage by horses on dune entrances has also been reported. Those riders who have been trying to engage authorities to secure legal access for horses have indicated that, were they to get permission, the bird breeding sanctuary would be outside where they rode, that all horse manure would be picked up, and that riders would be responsible and courteous to other beach users. Sadly, those breaking the law now are providing ammunition to those wanting to keep the status quo in place, by showing that not all horses and their riders act responsibly. I would encourage riders to group together again and engage authorities responsibly, or to face action when breaking the law.

CXPRESS

SPORT & ADVENTURE

6 March 2019

BUCO’s Karoo to Coast and Dr Evil boost local charities ECYCLED top-quality bicycle helmets were handed to Knysna Sports Academy recently, as part of the many local charitable initiatives supported by the Buco Lions Karoo to Coast MTB Challenge, and the Buco Dr Evil Classic three-day stage race. Both these Garden Route-based events have now become highlights on the national cycling calendar. The helmet donation is the result of an innovative

activation during the two annual events that take place over the Heritage Day weekend in September. Scott Sports Africa handed over 80 brand-new Scott helmets, fitted with the latest MIPS technology, to riders during these two events. The riders then gave their existing helmets worn during the race to Scott Sports for local charities. The Get Your Head in the Game helmet giveaway is aimed at raising awareness

of safety in cycling - something close to the heart of Scott Sports Africa brand manager Joggie Prinsloo. “The goal is simply to raise awareness for the importance and need for quality safety gear while cycling. While we handed out 180 brand-new helmets during this national initiative, through the riders’ generosity we were able to collect 218 helmets to give away to charity. “And that is what this initiative is all about,” said

Prinsloo, who expressed his gratitude to all the riders who participated in the charity drive. The helmets collected during the Karoo to Coast and Dr Evil Classic were distributed to Kwano Cycling Academy in Plett and to Knysna Sports Academy (KSA), among others, to be used in their local cycling programmes. Knysna Sports Academy runs a range of MTB programmes currently catering for 60 learners, with a large proportion of youth attending hailing from disadvantaged communities. Some of the more senior riders take part in cross country and marathon races, and last year the Academy saw some of their riders taking part in the Karoo to Coast. In 2017, Academy riders won the Dr Evil team prize. Zandile Meneses, organiser of both mountain bike races, said that valued event partners such as Scott

HELMETS WITH HEART: From back left are Knysna Sports Academy coach Paulus Sigonyela, Dr Evil Classic and Karoo to Coast organiser Zandile Meneses, Knysna Sports Academy manager Iain Coetzee, and riders Jadrien Pietersen and Ziandré Jordaan, with Tyrese Harker in front

Sports Africa really embraced the “consciousness of giving back” that underpins the fundamentals of these events. “This initiative is just one of the many ways the Bucosponsored Dr Evil and Karoo to Coast give back to the communities along our routes,” she said. Most water points and

marshals at these events are provided by charities such as Knysna Education Trust, Plett Animal Welfare, Services, Cansa, Kwano Cycling Academy, the Rotary Clubs of Knysna and Plett, Eden Lions and KSA. They receive a donation for these services which, again, is ploughed back into local communities.

Plett Country Club bowlers raise R7.5K for Hospice

Storms River

TIN HOUSE Self-catering accommodation

On a bright Sunday in mid-February, a group of over 50 people - including a good number of golfers - gathered at the Plettenberg Bay Country Club greens for a fun day of bowls. Says John Swinley of the PBCC Bowls section: “Thanks to generous sponsorship from local business and our membership, we managed to raffle three beautiful hampers of which the first prize went to Yole Schusser, second to Lydia Nel, and third to Bill Ingram and Phyllis Sutton. A large number of prizes were also presented for prowess on the bowling green. Together with the generous financial support from Warwick Financial Maturity, the event allowed us to make a donation of R7,500 to Hospice Plett. After the presentation, Cecily van Heerden told the audience about the wonderful work done in our area by her dedicated Hospice staff - there was hardly a dry eye in the house!” Pictured above, Bowls section president Roger Wright hands over the donation to Cecily, with Natalie Melrose of Warwick smiling on. - Photo: Eleanor Swinley

Sport shorts • Personal Trust is sponsoring a Fun Quiz Evening for the Differently-abled Awareness Campaign at Plettenberg Bay Bowling Club in Challenge Drive on Thursday March 28 at 6pm. Teams

Paws

Plett Animal Welfare Service

of six pax max are now invited to enter but don’t delay as there’s a limit of the first 18 teams to book. Tickets at R100 per person include a meal and great prizes, too! Call Barry on 072 890 6238

to enter your team. • The horse-whisperer has all the local fillies area aneighing, nostrils sniffing the air… it’s coming! Glitz, glam, hats, the Sky - and lots of grazing. What can it be?!