7 February 2018 by CXpress

7 February 2018

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

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Photo: Marius Venter - PBCPA Operations Manager

Crime-fighters unite

The past week has proven rather frantic for Plett’s crime-fighting fraternity, the tragic murder of a lady resident shocking the town to its core - albeit with the silver lining of a murder suspect being arrested the very next day. Yesterday morning, another victory for local security and SAPS members followed the brutal attack of a gentleman in Keurbooms Heights. In both cases, the men pictured here played a pivotal role: from left are PBCPA operations executive Otto Olivier with constables Mtikrakra and Mgwedana of Plett Police, and Bitou Law Enforcement officers Thandikhaya ‘TK’ Gqabi and Masiza Mbutyu. Turn to page 3 for the reports.

Where is Plettenberg Bay going?

Mr Rattray brightens our day

Boxing greats root for ‘Slow Poison’

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NEWS & VIEWS

7 February 2018

Plett Performing Arts Festival attracts top SA talent OME of the country’s most acclaimed performers will again descend on Plettenberg Bay this month for the annual Plett Music Festival. Now rebranded as Plett Performing Arts Festival to reflect the diversity of the artists and their genres, this feast of performance art takes place from February 20-28. Pieter-Dirk Uys, Emile Minnie, and the Vumani Choral Project will take centre stage at The Whitehouse Theatre in Plett CBD to raise funds for The Kids of Kurland School Project. Said trustee of this longserving NPO Ann Fermor: “We are extremely excited that the festival is staged for a fifth year, and grateful to all artists who will entertain us to the benefit of many needy kids in Kurland Village.” The festival opens on Tuesday February 20 with Pieter-Dirk Uys in ‘Adapt or Fly’ - a continuation of his first one-man show ‘Adapt or Dye’ in 1981.

Described by critics as “a work of technical mastery”, it fights fear with laughter and closes the bracket with another onslaught on a politically-correct regime. Uys will be joined by supporting characters such as HF Verwoerd, PW Botha, Nelson Mandela, JG Zuma, and a man in a red beret. The actor, author, and activist will then take the stage for a second evening on Wednesday the 21st, this time with his provocative and deeply personal memoir ‘Echo of a Noise’. The show has taken South Africa by storm, as Uys confides in the audience, breaks rules, and crosses boundaries. From memoirs to music, the Vumani Choral Project will then present two nights of outstanding entertainment. Selected soloists will perform loved familiar operatic arias on February 22, and the full choir will delight with a wide-ranging repertoire on Friday the 23rd, the performance including choral,

gospel, opera, and dance. On Saturday February 24, cabaret star Emile Minnie is set to captivate with his show ‘Nagmusiek’. Featuring French love songs, golden oldies and his own compositions, Minnie’s passion and energy is sure to light up the stage. His album of the same name was nominated in the SA Music Awards for Best Alternative Afrikaans Album, and he will be joined by well-known Knysna vocalist Mia Swart. There will be an interval during this show with light snacks and drinks provided in the courtyard. Rounding off the festival, the masterful Contagious Theatre team will bring Paul Gallico’s ‘Snow Goose’ to life on Wednesday February 28. Their portrayal of this classic tale of friendship, kindness, and compassion has resulted in numerous awards and unanimous acclaim from both critics and audiences. All proceeds from the annual festival go towards supporting

The Kids of Kurland School Project, which currently funds three additional teaching staff and a social worker at The Crags Primary School in Kurland Village. The addition of these staff members has helped the school to reduce class sizes and tackle some of the social challenges children face growing up in the community, including broken homes, domestic violence, and substance abuse. Concluded Ann: “We rely on events such as The Plett Performing Arts Festival to raise the necessary funds to continue impacting the lives of children attending this school. On average, it costs around R350,000 each year to cover the basic salaries of these staff members, and this figure is rising annually.” Tickets cost R200 and can be purchased from The Old House Shop in Plett or reserved by calling Ann Fermor on 082 452 8764. See the advert on page 5 for additional information.

Art of expression explored through Bitou 10 Foundation initiative OROTHEA Pienaar, who emigrated to New Zealand 20 years ago, is a musician and a music therapist who gained her master’s degree on ‘Communication through Music with Children in Need’ from Wellington University. On January 23, Garden Route residents with an interest in education, music and expressive arts were fortunate to see Dorothea in action when she presented ‘Expressive Art Therapy for Children with Special Needs’ - a well-attended fundraiser organised by the Bitou 10 Foundation (B10F) at Bosky Dell. It turned out to be a glorious morning of music, entertainment, and beautiful blooms at

the famous farm and rose garden. The audience was invited to participate in various practical activities that can be used to get children involved in learning in a unique way. Dorothea explained that music lightens the mood and appeals to all children; it is structured and gives children a feeling of safety. She encouraged all to start and end learning sessions with a song. Dorothea emphasised the importance of teaching in a happy environment and of never underestimating children, but getting to know them as individuals. “Listen to children - their body language, how they walk,

how they look at you, how they talk - and learn to be perceptive,” she urged. Teachers often wonder where to find instruments and gadgets. Dorothea showed that you could use anything from a sock for a puppet show to a pan, stones, and an empty bucket to create different sounds. Differently-textured sponges provide a range of sensory experiences when rubbed on the skin. Use whatever you find around you to involve the child in a variety of sensations. B10F thanks Dorothea for sharing her vast knowledge and believes that everyone who attended could benefit from her practical suggestions. They also

thank Rae Gilbert for availing Bosky Dell at no cost, Andrie Combrink for the wonderful eats, and Ian MacMillan for the sound system. Stephan Louw, a tutor from Plett Pioneer Field Band, assisted Dorothea on the keyboard and wherever she needed him. The team also thanks everyone from CX Country who supported the successful initiative. • B10F offers a series of education-related talks during 2018 for the benefit of all who take an interest in children and their education, the next one is scheduled for May and presented by an occupational therapist from Iceland. (See the images on page 7).

NEWS & VIEWS

7 February 2018

CXPRESS

Alleged Schoongezicht murderer’s bail application postponed - support for petition mounting A massive outcry from the Plettenberg Bay community following the murder of a local resident last week, has led to overwhelming support of a petition against the release on bail of her alleged murderer - YOLANDÉ STANDER reports HE naked and bruised body of 63-year-old Knysna Sedgefield Hospice nurse Penny Cumming was discovered by a friend on the floor of her residence in Schoongezicht Country Estate off Piesang Valley Road at about 5am on Monday morning January 29. The victim’s home was found ransacked, and on closer investigation it was discovered that her Volvo SUV had been stolen. Local law enforcement officers and various other role-players managed to identify the suspect and, after following up on information, her alleged murderer was tracked down to

REST IN PEACE, SISTER PENNY: This photo of Penny Cumming was circulated on social media accompanied by a message from Knysna Sedgefield Hospice

KwaNokuthula. He was found hiding near a school in the area. The suspect, believed to be about 25 years of age, was arrested and appeared in the Plettenberg Bay Magistrate’s Court on Thursday February 1. Several members of the community gathered outside the court building before his court appearance to not only support the grieving family, but to honour those involved in arresting Cumming’s alleged killer. The accused briefly appeared in court, but the matter was postponed to February 21 for a formal bail application. He indicat-

Brilliant cooperation between local security stakeholders enables swift arrest of crowbar attackers ROUND 9pm on Monday night February 5, a resident of Keurbooms Heights was bludgeoned with a crowbar when he stepped outside briefly to let out his cat. His three attackers proceeded to tie him up and demanded cash, all the while brandishing the crowbar as well as firearms. The victim was carried upstairs while the men helped themselves to items including luxury watches and a flat-screen TV. They then fled the scene with the victim’s A2 Mercedes Benz. According to Otto Olivier of Plettenberg Bay Crime Prevention Association (PBCPA), the injured man then managed to alert his security provider. “FADT, the SAPS, and Medlife responded and were quick to arrive at the scene. The gentleman was then stabilised and taken

to hospital.” The stolen vehicle’s description and number plate was posted on the PBCPA REACT group in the early morning hours of February 6. Soon after, Blue Bay guard Ronald Rusirevu spotted the vehicle and sent out an alert. “PBCPA members immediately responded to KwaNokuthula. The suspects were spotted, and during a chase they stopped and jumped out of the vehicle, disappearing among the houses,” says Olivier. SAPS, Municipal Law Enforcement, and various PBCPA members (Plett Security, K9 Blackie, Smhart Alarms, Blue Bay Guards, FADT, Wittedrift Neighbourhood Watch and PlettWatch) took up position at all entrance and exit routes to KwaNokuthula while a thorough search for the suspects continued. “The suspects were finally

traced through intelligence received from MLE officer TK, who was off duty at the time but placed himself on duty to assist,” says Olivier. Three suspects were arrested. Olivier says the cooperation between all security and emergency stakeholders to effect the arrests was nothing short of brilliant. “An enormous shout out to Plett Station Commander colonel Michaels, captain Grootboom, KwaNokuthula Station Commander colonel Kewana, the SAPS Dog Unit, Bitou Public Safety commander Andile Sakati, all police and Bitou Law Enforcement officers, K9 Blackie, and all PBCPA responders for a job well done.” • The victim in Monday night’s attack was expected to self-discharge from hospital by going to press… (Visit www.cxpress.co.za for more news and pics.)

ed that he would apply for representation from a legal aid attorney. The accused was charged with, among others, murder and rape. Police said that the suspect was positively linked to the crime through CCTV footage and forensic evidence

found on the crime scene by police forensic experts. In the meantime, residents have started a petition to hand in when the suspect applies for bail in court. The aim of the petition is to convince the court that he should not be released. The petition, which has

been circulated at various points in Plett and on a WhatsApp group, has garnered thousands of signatures. Local resident Joanne Barrett, who is involved in compiling and distributing the petition, said by the time of going to press more than 1,600 people had signed it.

CXPRESS

NEWS & VIEWS

7 February 2018

Quo vadis, Plettenberg Bay? Recent articles and letters by ‘The Drone’, Ian van Jaarsveld, and Plett Tourism CEO Peter Wallington are welcome stimulants in the debate around Plett’s future; adding to these, ERROL FINKELSTEIN puts forward actionable points to highlight potential ways forward and invoke reaction or further suggestions LETTENBERG Bay is first and foremost the jewel of the Garden Route and can position itself as South Africa’s undisputed, unique, and leading ecotourism destination. It should focus singularly on this objective and incorporate a holistic mission statement and strategy to support the vision. For various identifiable reasons, change is needed - that which worked 50 or even 20 years ago is no longer a winning way forward. As they say, the past is not necessarily a good indicator of the future. If Plett does not claim the title of pre-eminent ecotourism destination in SA, someone else soon will. Green shoots of blossoming businesses such as new upmarket restaurants, boutique hotels, avi-tourism, an array of outdoor activities, retirement complexes, health services, agro-economy and environmental services are leading the way. These should be encouraged by Bitou Municipality through zoning, advertising, support, rate rebates, and the like. Efforts to reduce or stop activities such as speeding riverboats, unleashed dogs on beaches, noisy fireworks, unauthorised cutting of trees or illegal building on

virgin land, are signs of a community grappling with new ways to forge a less intrusive society. The desired result is less scope for actions by a few that impact negatively and disproportionately on many people, the environment, and our biodiversity. A good motivation to reorganise the rules and ways we do things in Plett is the fact that there are far more people. Plett Tourism CEO Peter Wallington says 18,000 people were resident here in 1996 compared to Bitou’s 60,000+ today. One classic example of capacity and technology swamping us is water skiing. In the Keurbooms skizone north of the N2, over 90 boats have been counted at times simultaneously skiing in an area which today is narrower than that recommended for skiing by the SA Maritime Safety Authority. Building development is a more obvious issue. If Wallington is correct, Plett will have 140,000 inhabitants by 2030 - double the current count. Where will they live, work, shop, send their kids to school, relax, and so on? If the current Plett footprint becomes fully developed, what do we do - break the urban edge and clear forest and fynbos to build more houses, shops,

schools? This is a key and fundamental strategy question which, I submit, has no easy answers either functionally, politically, economically or environmentally. However, I believe there is every reason for optimism. Plett could do several things to signal to the growing eco-tourism market that it is serious: • Rapidly overturning years of non-delivery, proclaim the Plett Nature Reserve from Hobie beach to Lookout. Extend it to run around the west of Poortjies waterway, past Plett Primary School, Keurbooms Lagoon Caravan Park, The Tides, Goose Valley, and up Bitou River as far as possible. In its wake, train locals to become environmental rangers, river rangers, reserve security, trail guides, and so on. • In the confluence area and at Poortjies, certain areas may be proclaimed as Knysna Sea Horse special zones. An academic study is currently commencing to establish the most appropriate areas. • Poortjies could be proclaimed a no-go area for motorised boats with a special channel marked out for legacy boats moored there for a lengthy sunset period, realising a small and only stretch of water where motorboats are prohibited. Swimmers,

boarders and all kinds of water creatures will flourish and be safe, including the harmless sharks who come into those warm waters at times to bask and breed as they have probably done for centuries before us. • Appoint an Environmental Officer. The current post is a junior one, not budgeted to attract a more senior person, similar to Knysna. Plett needs an entire Environmental department, not just a junior officer. This is imperative for a town whose entire livelihood is based on its natural beauty. • Rates reductions or rebates should apply to houses built in the most ecofriendly materials, making it attractive for those who wish to be off the grid, selfsufficient, and self-sustainable. Municipal land for this purpose should be offered on easy terms. • Investigate the option of making it impossible for body corporates or estate management to ban solar panels, water storage facilities, and other environmentally-supportive approaches. • Encourage all forms of agro-economic development and conservation within Plett. • Make information on what is invasive and what is not readily available and accessible; heavily subsidise

BRIGHT FUTURE: Errol Finkelstein believes there’s every reason for optimism if Plett works towards becoming a strong united body with strategies to effect positive change

invasive alien removal and replacement with appropriate indigenous vegetation. • Parking at Robberg Peninsula has been highlighted. Surely there is an opportunity, in peak season at least, for nearby disused land to be converted into parking areas with a regular shuttle or perhaps rickshaw-style rides? There must be innovative solutions to all of these challenges, but only if the people of Plett put their heads together to create a new, better, sustainable way forward. Local tourism and business communities are fragmented, stifling the economic growth that will always be the mainstay of job creation. Plett Business Chamber seems to exist in name only (try finding it online). One strong united body across tourism, retail, accommodation, restaurant, construction, trades, agriculture, education and services, including Plett Central, KwaNokuthula, The Crags and all its stake-

holders should be created to strategise, plan, consider, and interface with Bitou Council, Plett Ratepayers, the Environmental Forum, Cape Nature, and so on. While our environmental and natural riches are all too apparent in Plett, the route to full employment arguably the country’s biggest challenge - is not. This critical characteristic of Plett and the country as a whole requires massive doses of education and training, upskilling people to add value in an uber-hyper competitive world. No one is really as acutely interested in our problems as those who live here. The online environment beckons as the way out of a low/ no-skill, low-employment, low-wages trap. Massive investment in online access infrastructure, value-adding online services (education, health, trading, etc.), business incubators, retirees serving as mentors - all of these could add the spark to light up the upliftment fire. Bitou Municipality should follow Eden District’s name-change example (to Garden Route), and revert to the name ‘Plettenberg Bay’. This is a winning marketing and branding tactic. You can count on one hand those outside of here who know where Bitou is. We are a tourist town, so why hide away behind an unknown non-brand? • Errol Finkelstein is a chartered accountant, corporate strategist, entrepreneur, and environmentalist. Opinions expressed here are his alone.

NEWS & VIEWS

7 February 2018

‘Skills mecca’ on the cards for Eden Correspondent BOB HOPKIN reports on the inaugural Garden Route Skills Summit well-attended meeting in George last week may just signal the beginning of a new attitude towards skills development in the region, as well as some mitigation of the natural disasters suffered in 2017. Organised by Eden District, the event brought together delegates from business, academia, government, and the media to discuss openly ideas, either preconceived or spontaneous, that could promote increased employment and the establishment of new business - without harmful effects on the environment. The scope and importance of the meeting was emphasised by the presence of the entire Western Cape cabinet, including the provincial premiere, Helen Zille. The openness of the process was also summed up in the opening address of Eden mayor Memory Booysen, who said gone were the days of “silent planning” without consultation, to be replaced by inclusive discussion.

MOTIVATED: WC premiere Helen Zille encourages delegates to be innovative and original in their thinking

While emphasising that these were her initial suggestions, premiere Zille said that her four priorities would be growing the green-energy sector in both installation skills and manufacturing, increasing tourism from seasonal to 365/12, adding value to farming by agri-processing, and the final product of establishing information technology hubs. “We are chained to thought processes from the 1950s, enslaved by corruption and shackled by bureaucracy that discourages new business start-ups. We must break that chain and embrace honesty, and innovative and contempo-

rary ideas,” she said. The first of the contributing speakers, Dr Florus Prinsloo from the Garden Route Rebuild Initiative (GRRI), provided a convincing argument for the establishment of a unique “skills mecca” in the area, either centralised or fragmented, that would attract students of all ages, and from local and international sources, to congregate here to learn new aptitudes in one of the most scenic and tranquil locations on Earth. In addition, he said, the presence of academics brought a constant fiscal injection to the area as evidenced by the prosperity around the Uni-

versity of Stellenbosch. According to an example made by premiere Zille, Chinese industry promotes growth by establishing training focal points within new business parks where international investors are encouraged to set up manufacturing but on the condition that all their employees have to be drawn from that training school. The final formal speaker, Paul Hoffman from South Cape Economic Partnership - who is to manage and moderate the subsequent plenary sessions - reminded that skills and industry had to grow together as it was pointless to train apprentices where no appropriate jobs existed. Industry will not invest where labour is unskilled. “The two complimenting each other in parallel is the ideal solution,” he said. The remainder of the summit was spent in plenary sessions where delegates presented spontaneous ideas that will be summarised by Eden for a future implementation plan.

University and Bitou take hands to empower workforce new partnership between Nelson Mandela University and Bitou Municipality is about to be implemented, according to acting municipal manager Jonny Douglas. “In the next few months we will be rolling out the programme and introducing the idea to the Department of Education. It has to receive their blessing. “As a municipality, our job is not education but providing basic services. However, education is an essential programme that enhances lives. If the community has pointed out a need for this service, we must facilitate it,” he said. “We need to smooth out everything related to the facilities, and our com-

WORKING TOGETHER: Professor Chris Adendorff, right, and Lungile Mxube of Nelson Mandela University met with Bitou mayor Peter Lobese at the municipal offices to discuss future collaboration Photo: Khaya Mbesi

munities must prepare to be ready to learn and empower themselves. The most important task is to further engage all the stake holders so that they are part of the programme.” Douglas said he was now focussing on the paperwork such as service agreements and venues. “This will also include legal requirements and a partnership agreement.” The programme was initiated by Bitou mayor Peter Lobese, who said: “Many local young people work as labourers. They have gained lots of skills but they don’t have any qualifications. Others work as plumbers, bricklayers and painters, but they must be taught for-

mally. There is a huge demand for their skills. Once trained, they can work independently and not for small change for a boss.” Professor Chris Adendorff and Lungile Mxube represented Nelson Mandela University at the January 22 meeting with Bitou Municipality’s delegation, led by Lobese. Said Adendorff, who heads up the university’s Business School: “We are excited about this project and the whole university is behind it. We are, however, not the implementing force, and the municipality will keep you posted on the progress. As partners, we will provide the time frames to be met.” - Khaya Mbesi

CXPRESS

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CXPRESS

7 February 2018

SCHOOL NEWS

SOCIAL SCENE

7 February 2018

CXPRESS

People, places & events

HIT THAT PERFECT BEAT: Plett Pioneers tutor Stephan Louw assisted Dorothea Pienaar on the keyboard and wherever else needed during her interesting presentation at beautiful Bosky Dell Farm and Rose Garden recently. Turn to page 2 to read the full story of how Dorothea enthused and inspired her attentive audience during a recent fundraiser initiated by the Bitou 10 Foundation, and visit www. bitou10foundation.co.za for additional information. LUCKY LOTTO HELPS UNCOVER LOCAL TALENT: Have those of you who play the Lotto ever wondered what the National Lotteries Commission does with your money? Well, suffice to say that they use it for many uplifting causes. Tshisa Talent and aspirant performers in the Southern and Eastern Cape were lucky to be the recipients of some funding from this admirable organisation. This meant that the Tshisa crew could uncover talent in Mossel Bay and Storm’s River, too. The next move to watch out for is a series of Open Mic Sessions to uncover new talent in Plett and Knysna. If you hurry, you can still be part of today’s Knysna Open Mic session at the LoveLife Centre, with another session scheduled for March 3. Plett’s sessions take place at Fibbi’s Carwash in KwaNokuthula on February 10 and 24, as well as on March 10 and 24. You must register at the venue in good time before the sessions kick off at 3pm, and each session should conclude around 5pm. Everyone is welcome to attend these free, groundbreaking and entertaining events, all of which will be filmed by the great iKasi Media who endeavour to help young filmmakers in realising their dreams. Visit www. tshisatalent.co.za or the Tshisa Talent Facebook page for updates. Pictured here above, Enrico Sam checks out fellow Broken Puzzle hip hop dance group member Mark Davids as he jumps for joy under the watchful eye of the Tshisa technical team led by performing arts guru Mncedisi Ncedani, at right. Photo: Garth Ensley

CXPRESS

INTERVAL

7 February 2018

Understanding derivatives... EIDI is the proprietor of a bar in Detroit. She realises that virtually all of her customers are unemployed alcoholics and, as such, can no longer afford to patronize her bar. To solve this problem, she comes up with a new marketing plan that allows her customers to drink now, but pay later. Heidi keeps track of the drinks consumed on a ledger, thereby granting the customers loans. Word gets around about Heidi’s ‘drink now, pay later’ marketing strategy and, as a result, increasing numbers of customers flood into Heidi’s bar. Soon she has the largest sales volume for any bar in Detroit. By providing her customers freedom from immediate payment demands, Heidi gets no resistance when, at regular intervals, she substantially increases her prices for wine and beer, the most consumed beverages. Consequently, Heidi’s gross sales volume increases massively. A young and dynamic vice-president at the local bank recognises that these

customer debts constitute valuable future assets and increases Heidi’s borrowing limit. He sees no reason for any undue concern because he has the debts of the unemployed alcoholics as collateral. At the bank’s corporate headquarters, expert traders figure a way to make huge commissions, and transform these customer loans into DRINKBONDS. These ‘securities’ then are bundled and traded on international securities markets. Naive investors don’t really understand that the securities being sold to them as ‘AAA Secured Bonds’ really are debts of unemployed alcoholics. Nevertheless, the bond prices continuously climb - and the securities soon become the hottest-selling items for some of the nation’s leading brokerage houses. One day, even though the bond prices still are climbing, a risk manager at the original local bank decides that the time has come to demand payment on the debts incurred by the drinkers at Heidi’s

Love and cherish husband died. A few weeks later his wife died. As she got to heaven she saw her husband. She ran up to him with tears in her eyes. “Darling, how I’ve

missed you!” Her husband extended his arms stopping her from embracing him and said: “Whoa there woman, the contract was until death!”

The real meaning of hotel slogans • Old world charm = No bath. • Options galore = Nothing is included in the itinerary. • No extra fees = No extras. • Nominal fee = Outrageous charge. • Standard room = Sub-

standard. • Deluxe room = Standard. • Superior room = One free shower cap. • Cozy = Small. • All the amenities = Two free shower caps. • Plush = Top and bottom sheets.

bar. He so informs Heidi. Heidi then demands payment from her alcoholic patrons. But, being unemployed alcoholics, they cannot pay back their drinking debts. Since Heidi cannot fulfill her loan obligations she is forced into bankruptcy. The bar closes and Heidi’s 11 employees lose their jobs. Overnight, DRINKBOND prices drop by 90%. The collapsed bond asset value destroys the bank’s liquidity and prevents it from issuing new loans, thus freezing credit and economic activity in the community. The suppliers of Heidi’s bar had granted her generous payment extensions and had invested their firms’ pension funds in the bond securities. They find they are now faced with having to write

off her bad debt and with losing over 90% of the presumed value of the bonds. Her wine supplier also claims bankruptcy, closing the doors of a family business that had endured for three generations, her beer supplier is taken over by a competitor, who immediately closes the local plant and lays off 150 workers. Fortunately though, the bank, the brokerage houses and their respective executives are saved and bailed out by a multibillion dollar no-strings attached cash infusion from the government. The funds required for this bailout are obtained by new taxes levied on employed, middle-class, non-drinkers who have never been in Heidi’s bar. Now do you understand? (Yes, but where are all those customers drinking now?)

Hard hats do not always work for everyone

7 February 2018 CLASSIFIEDS

CXPRESS

9 February 2018 7

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CXPRESS

ON THE SOAPBOX

7 February 2018

Letters to the Editor

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

‘Larger than life’ was epitomised by this fine lover of mischief An anonymous friend penned this tribute to Martin Rattray, whose memorial service takes place at St Peter’s Church in Plett on February 8 at 11am Martin Rattray was oneof-a-kind, a charming character, and a lover of mischief, mayhem and antics - a Bertie Wooster character in fact, and he will be sorely missed. For those who perhaps never knew him, he is leaving a legacy of some of the most beautiful homes in the area, but the pavilion at Kurland Polo Estate is perhaps his masterpiece. Today we’re sharing just a couple of his stories to brighten your day. He loved his dogs, little Lottie - the King Charles spaniel, and various other uncontrollable hounds who lounged around his home. Someone once asked him what he fed them, to which he replied: “About one hundred thousand ‘Ronts’ (sp.) worth of antiques a week.” Bitou Municipality had been very tardy about stamping an architectural plan of a building he’d designed, and Martin decided there was only one thing to hurry them up: he sent his bed, bedside table (complete with a few bottles of whisky and glasses in the cupboard), bedside lamp, newspaper, beautiful carpet, a comfortable armchair, and coat hanger for his dressing-gown ahead of him, to be unloaded outside the municipal reception area. Then, wearing his stripy pyjamas and velvet slippers, he got Vusi, his driver (he’d been banned from driving long before), to drive him in to the municipality (the old Merc’s bonnet had been fitted with a silver spaniel, with its ears flying back in the wind). On arrival, the furniture was off-loaded into the reception, and carefully arranged for maximum effect. He told the receptionist that he’d be there for the duration, until such time as the municipality felt they could pass his plans. He got into bed, poured himself a whisky and began to read his paper. It

didn’t take long before his first friend arrived to sit in the chair - and they chatted away amicably. After an hour the friend left, and not long after another friend arrived and so the day progressed, with various officials occasionally peeping round the corner to check this unbelievable sight. It was extremely convivial. In fact, the municipal reception area had never been as friendly and - alas! - has never been since. Rather sadly, the plans were passed before nightfall to Martin’s annoyance, as he’d been looking forward to bragging about being the first one ever to spend a night locked in the municipal buildings. Another story involved a client who’d taken Martin to Belvidere Estate in Knysna to show him a plot of land he’d bought, and needed a holiday house designed and built for his family. Plans were discussed at length, drawn up, passed, builders chosen, and the day arrived to begin construction. The client, living far away in Bechuanaland (Martin loved using the old names), was happy to discuss all the details by phone and fax (in those days). Intermittent cheques were posted so that the building could progress over the months until completion. At last, the house was finished, furniture sent down and installed, and finally the day arrived for the client and his family to begin their summer holiday in their beautiful new home. Telephone rings, Martin answers. Client: “Martin, the house is wonderful, but I’m afraid to tell you that you’ve built it on the wrong plot.” Martin had had a visit from the sheriff in Knysna, who had made a pretty concise list of his personal belongings, with the warning to expect a large truck to arrive soon

to collect enough to cover outstanding income tax for the last few years. Hatching a plan to hide all the furniture and antiques of any worth, he and a friend spent the next few days lugging all sorts of furniture and ornaments up a steep staircase and into the loft above his garages. The truck duly arrived and loaded up the flatscreen, CD player, speakers, computers, photocopier machine, fax machine, radios, and any other pretty worthless piece of electronics they could catch sight of. But, at the last moment they took the Italianate Table circa 1564, which had been waiting to go up into the loft. Martin was furious. He was still steaming when, after another week or so, a phone call advised him that the above items would be auctioned off at a venue on the industrial site of Knysna, and mentioned a date. A friend agreed to go with him to the auction to buy back the valuable antique Italianate table. The auction began, and the electronics came up under the hammer for a few “Ronts”. At last it was the turn of the Italianate table. The auctioneer began the bidding but no-one really showed any interest; lucky, because between the two of them they only had R250 cash in their pockets. Martin stood well at the back, feigning disinterest, and his friend was the only one to place a bid for R150 (the table’s real worth was in the thousands). After a few hushed seconds, and no more bids, the table was declared sold, for R150. Martin declared that he was NEVER going to pay his income tax again. It’s simply not worth paying it when one can hand over a few thousand worth of Chinese-made electrical goods instead, and then buy yourself a whole new

lot of upgrades. Then there was the American tourist, who wanted to meet the chap who’d designed the Polo Pavilion at Kurland. A meeting was arranged, and tea at Kurland Hotel (with Martin having brought his own hip-flask along) was the order of the day. By the time tea was over, Martin was in his stride and enjoying the exaggerated flattery of the American. He decided he was going to treat us all to dinner at a nearby restaurant. The car we were all squeezed into was a tiny Fiat Panda, and Martin decided that since he had no cash, he would ask the proprietor to trade a huge oil landscape of Kettle Beach for dinner for four. The canvas was larger than the car, so the front and back passengers, with their windows down, had to hang on to the painting while we slowly drove down from The Crags to Keurbooms (or Queerbooms, as he used to call it). We walked into the restaurant, ordered wine, our meals, puddings, liqueurs, a few more Scotches, and sat there for many hours. Eventually, Martin left the table, walked to the carpark and got a few innocent customers to help him bring the painting to the restaurant. We watched - amused and slightly alarmed from our table as the proprietor stared at the painting, told Martin that he hated it, and on no account would he accept it in exchange for our feast. The American was so appalled and embarrassed and taken aback that he happily settled up for the meal, and tried to distance himself from our party, walking briskly away into the night! We hope these few stories (and there are many more to tell), will put a smile on your face. In Loving Memory of a Largerthan-Life character.

Bitou Community Vet Clinic shop forced to close It is with regret that due to unaffordable rental costs, the Bitou Community Veterinary Clinic’s (CVC) charity shop will close its doors from end February. The rental increases as well as running costs have made it difficult to continue with this NPO and we are unable to find alternative premises, although we are still on the lookout for

something suitable. For the past years, Bitou CVC has played a huge role in preventing dog/cat pregnancies in the poorer communities and we are ever-grateful to you, the Plett public as well as to our out of town sponsors, for generous donations to the shop, both financial and in the form of clothing and household goods.

I will continue to sterilise dogs from the townships when funds are available, and will definitely support the team from Dunlop tyre centre with vaccinating and deworming dogs from the surrounding area when possible. Bitou CVC will continue to operate and function as normal, supporting PAWS by offering primary health

care where needed. To raise funds, we will try and have a monthly second-hand clothing sale to be held at the Marineway Animal Hospital premises on the last Friday and first Saturday of each month. Thank you for your continued support and care of the animals in our Bitou region. Dr Bert van Reenen, Plett

ON THE SOAPBOX

7 February 2018

Letters to the Editor

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

Policing and signage make a mockery of so impressed with all putting in all this hard dog-zoning labours Ithewashard work that went work if the municipality is

CONFUSING AT BEST: The new dog zone signs - those that didn’t end up being dumped - don’t make it clear where dogs are welcome, with or without leads

into re-zoning the beaches in Plett for dogs. Once the zones had been established, the information was well disseminated via the newspaper and social media along with easy to follow colour-coded maps. I take my two dogs to Sanctuary Beach and walk them towards Robberg, as this has been zoned a leash-free beach. I was surprised and annoyed when I was stopped by municipal officers on Friday January 26, and told that I had to have my dogs on leashes along the whole beach. I tried to enter into a discussion with the officer and explained about the new regulations, but he was having none of it. I even showed him a picture of the new zones, but he told me I could show him whatever I wanted, I still had to put my dogs on leads. None of the new signage had been put up (although I believe it has been printed and is ready to go up). What was the point of

going to ignore it all and police the beaches incorrectly anyway? On my walk today, I noticed that some signage was starting to go up. I thought this was a good thing, until I walked over for a closer look. The signage at Sanctuary is confusing at best. Both arrows point towards each other and it seems to suggest that dogs off leads are allowed in the direction of Robberg 5, which is incorrect. The signage at Solar Beach has been thrown in the bushes behind the bin. It is incorrect anyway. At wreck beach there is a sign saying no dogs allowed and dogs off leads allowed. Both arrows point in the same direction. It is such a waste of hard work and resources if these signs are erected incorrectly. If the municipality can’t get their employees to do it properly, I am sure there are plenty of responsible dog-owners who would happily do it voluntarily. Janet Woodhead, Plett

Where on Earth was that?!

Flouting dog laws bad for world’s best beaches Plettenberg Bay has, without question, some of the finest beaches we have experienced anywhere in the world. One of our favourites is Lookout Beach and nature reserve. A relatively new large sign advises that dogs are not allowed anywhere on this beach and a substantial fine will apply in

breach of the regulation. On the last two Sundays, we have witnessed several dog owners who flagrantly choose to ignore this law and let their dogs run free. This selfish and unreasonable behaviour leaves a bad aftertaste for visitors to your beautiful area. Paul Ridyard, Ilkley UK

Having resided in Plett for the last 16 years, I believe the Signal Hill view site is a must-see spot for all visitors. But many have asked: “Why is there no ‘Welcome to Plettenberg Bay’ sign here, as it would look so good in a photo?” This is a very popular site for overseas tour buses, but I am sure when looking at their many images at home and friends ask: “Where was that?” most of them don’t remember! Surely Plett Tourism and Bitou Municipality would benefit tremendously from the extra exposure worldwide once they’ve erected a ‘Welcome to Plettenberg Bay’ sign overlooking the Robberg and the BI Hotel? - Plettie

Blame the shells, not the seals, for that terrible whiff We have been back in this lovely town for a good week and will stay for another six weeks. Once again we have experienced a very hearty welcome which gives us the feeling of coming back home! However, this time there is one thing that is different and it is a real nuisance. For several days there have been dead seals on Robberg Beach which have not been removed and stink so horribly that you can neither sit outside nor leave any doors open. And to sleep at night with closed doors is like being in prison, not something that you expect in this paradise. In previous years, dead seals were removed within a short time, but now nobody seems to be responsi-

ble for this unpleasant job. We really hope the officials paid by the tax payers will become aware of their duty and solve this unbearable problem soon. Ursula & Rolf Neuhaus, Plett (Bitou responded that recent weather conditions meant the teams responsible for carcass clearing had their hands very full. And although the couple Neuhaus informed CXPRESS shortly after writing that the offending seals had been removed, the following explanation by Henk Nieuwoudt of CapeNature warranted inclusion: The recent cold shock and following rough seas had a major impact on our marine life, especially along Robberg Beach from

the Sanctuary towards Robberg Nature Reserve. The current stench is from the decaying surf clams that has been washed up on the beach after the stormy wave action exposed them. The seals are innocent in this case, and the carcasses of dead ones will only come ashore after easterly winds, which deposit them along Robberg Beach. A stranding network WhatsApp group has been established by Dr Gwenith Penry to report on marinerelated observations along our coastline to enable the relevant NGOs or governmental organisations to take action. This include dead or alive Cape fur seals on any beach, dolphin and whale stranding, dead or injured

coastal birds, as well as to report on coastal pollution. This tool has been very helpful regarding the location and collection of injured birds and mammals, and also serve to conduct meaningful monitoring and research in Plett. Various NGOs, government institutions, universities, local marine operators, a local animal rehabilitation centre and private volunteers make this possible and the cooperation has been great. Dead seals don’t remain on the beach for long: Frikkie van der Vyver of PE Museum collects valuable info and data before burying the carcasses. In the case of fully grown adult carcasses, he is assisted by Bitou Beach Control.)

CXPRESS

Read CXPRESS online at www.cxpress.co.za

CXPRESS

7 February 2018

SPORT & ADVENTURE

Ladies, gnomes, and villains come out of the woodwork for annual bowls event

OF VICTORS, KINGS AND PRESIDENTS: The winning Sedgefield ladies team rub shoulders with King Richard (aka Richard Ashton), and Plett Bowling Club president Gerrit Theunissen, right

LETTENBERG Bay Bowling Club held its annual Ladies Day competition on February 1, and ladies teams from every corner of Eden District were invited to compete in this prestigious event. “We were lucky to get entries from clubs as far as Groot-brak River and Outeniqua,” said Derek Rushton of Plett Bowling Club. “Our very generous sponsors Plett Manor and Helen Melon Properties made it possible for us to offer cash prizes all the way down to 10th place, and we also thank Rice & Linen, LM in Plett restaurant, Clare’s Cakes, The Village Bookshop and Robberg Fisheries for availing wonderful prizes.” This year’s theme was Friends of the Forest, which brought out fairies, gnomes, butterflies, forest hippies, bees, Robin Hood, The Sheriff of Rottingham, Friar Tuck, and some general forest personages. “The men do all the work on our Ladies Day and we thought dressing them as Robin Hood and his merry men would give it a different twist. We couldn’t get them into tights though,” chuckles Derek. “King Richard was part of the organising team and nominated mainly because of his

GARDEN VARIETY: The Gnomes - from left are Glynis Holland, Mal Moni, and Di Bowling - won the best-dressed prize and a commendation for spending the entire day’s play in full regalia

name. He pardoned a bevy of ladies who faulted with his sword, and spanked those with more than one fault on the green! He then then sat on his throne while they doted on his magnificence…” The Gnomes won the best-dressed prize. Overall winners were the ladies from Sedgefield, with Knysna coming in second.

SA boxing greats wish Bitou star all the best

Bitou-based boxing promoter David Faas, at left above, shared this rather historic photo and wrote: “The pic was taken after the South African Boxing Awards held at Boardwalk Casino in Port Elizabeth on Friday night February 2. Pictured from left with yours truly are our brightest star and new Western Cape Junior fly champion Nwabisile Colani, former WBA/IBF world champion Brian Mitchell, and former South African middle-weight champ Elijah ‘Tap Tap’ Makhathini. Nwabisile is scheduled to defend his title at the end of March against Phumlani Mcanda from Cape Town at KwaNokuthula Community Hall, and both these former boxing greats wished him the very best of luck.” So do we - watch this space for details of Nwabisile ‘Slow Poison’ Colani’s next bout.

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