13 March 2013 #360
Published fortnightly by CXpress (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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Bravo Plett! Luc Schulz shows his delight at being part of the winning team that nabbed the Eastern Cape Nippers crown on March 2 & 3 - turn to page 13 for more images and news
Photo: Martin Hurwitz
Be there... March 19 to 24
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ISSUE 360
News & Views
March 13 - 2013
People Around Town
Win and Angie’s life-sized sculptures radiate quirky energy GIGI LEWIS interviews interesting Garden Route residents and visitors that happen to cross her path
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F statues of realistic-looking drunkards leaning against a lamp post, cyclists speeding to a date, roses in hand, or shrouded fairies in lacy shawls, are on your wish-list this summer, then take a trip into Wilderness and drive up Win and Angie’s garden path where these and many similar sculptures in all shapes and sizes share their space.
so realistic and practical at the same time is the fact that they are dressed in real, recycled clothes and covered with a fabric hardener and weatherproof sealer that Win improved over the years. The metal-like final paint coat can have a patina of black, brown, green or white. So, should you still possess your favourite clothing from
WILDERNESS ARTISTS: Angie and Win
started to subsidise my earnings as a teacher by making furniture from recycled wood. When I moved to Sedgefield in 2001, I had a furniture business called The Patio which I managed for nearly four years.” Jqdd{"rc{u"kvu"yc{ “Four years ago, I saw an article in an Australian magazine on making sculptures similar to
MIXED MEDIA: With Angie’s background in art and Win’s craft talent, they make the perfect team - pictured here with some of their sculpted ‘people’, they are real people who have learnt through experiencing life’s ebbs and flows
Here is a girl sitting on a bench, cdqxg" tkijv, holding a peace dove - doesn’t her face look remarkably like that of a young Jodie Foster, the American actress? And there, speeding downhill is a cyclist on a real bike who is ‘Late for Work’. The ‘Drunk Lady’ leans against a pole topped by a lamp that can be connected to electricity and thus illuminate the scene. The newest sculptures are those of a couple sitting leisurely on a wooden bench under a tree in the midday sun, adqxg" egpvtg, with nothing more urgent to do than reading a book (she) and smoking a pipe (he). What makes these works of art
previous seasons, Win could make a sculpture of you wearing those items, including shoes, jeans and hats, and add any emblems of your favourite hobby, too. Gladwin (Win) Johnstone was born in Gauteng in the 1950s and moved to KwaZulu-Natal, aged 14, where he finished his formal education at the Natal Teachers Training College which sadly no longer exists. His spare time was occupied with painting pictures, which gained him a mention in Rgt/ uqpcnkv{ magazine in 1965. Ejcpig"qh"fktgevkqp “I taught at primary school level for 14 years and, in the 80s,
the ones I create now. I was so impressed by the ease of crafting them and the fact that they looked stunning, that I started to research the subject in depth. “I developed my own technique and it took me nearly a year to get it right. My perseverance was rewarded at the Hobby Exhibition in Johannesburg, where I reaped the fruit of my labour.” Rgtuqpcn"ejcpigu “I met Angie for the first time at a garden show in KZN, where she was exhibiting her marble art items. But it wasn’t until two years later that she contacted me again under strained circumstances and I was able to
help her. Soon after, we moved in together along with her fouryear-old twin daughters, Angelica and Andrea.” Rctvpgtu"kp"dwukpguu"cpf"kp"nkhg" “Through Angie’s background in art, she quickly saw potential in my sculptures and is now a vital inspiration and workmate in the creation of our pieces. “Finance to grow the business is extremely difficult to get by. There are three aspects of our business. Firstly, the big sculptures which are suitable for corporate or private display. But in order to produce more, we need to sell them first. “Prices are reasonable because of the products we use. At the moment, we tend to go to local markets. The items really need exposure in exhibition rooms - the fees of which, for the space we need, are presently way above our budget. “Our second line is 3D paintings where an underlying painting is used and texture added in the same way as we make our sculptures. “Thirdly, we offer kits that include everything you need for a miniature statue and workshops that enable you to finish a small statue in around 2.5-hours, materials included.” Cpqvjgt"fkogpukqp" Angie recently completed a head in profile of Jesus Christ, hct" nghv, applied to a treated background material in the shape of a scroll. His strands of hair and beard were made of duvet batting saturated with fabric hardener and his crown made of real thorns, all painted over in an aged ochre colour. But his face is truly remarkable: almost luminous in white, tinged with darker accent colours and undefined features, firing one’s imagination of what he might have looked like. Visit www.amazingsculptur es.co.za to see more of Win and Angie’s art.
Ikik"Ngyku"nkuvgpu"vq"{qw"qp" jgt"ujgnn/rjqpg000"Cp"ceg" rjqvqitcrjgt"cpf"kpfqokvcdng" cfxgpvwtgt"yjq"gplq{u"nkhg"vq" vjg"hwnn."{qw"ecp"gockn"jgt"cv" ikik0ngykuBvgnmqouc0pgv"ykvj" eqoogpvu"qt"uwiiguvkqpu0
News & Views
March 13 - 2013
CXPRESS
Three charged with murder of Kwano child-killer finally walk free John Harvey - Garden Route Media
LIBERTY AT LAST: This photo of the three murder accused - from left are Mlamli Desi, Michael Besana, and Mbonisi Tuli - was taken by late CXPRESS contributor Neil Oelofse and included in our edition of July 11, 2012 (visit www.cxpress.co.za and click on the Home page of issue 344 for the full story)
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HREE men from KwaNokuthula in Plettenberg Bay, who faced murder charges in the mob killing of a suspected child killer and rapist in 2011, were acquitted in the Knysna magistrate’s court last week. Mlamli Desi, Mbonisi Tuli, and Michael Besana were arrested after a mob of more than 2’000 KwaNokuthula residents beat Derrick Shwati, 37, to death on November 28, 2011, accusing him of raping and murdering seven-year-old
Siphokazi Nini. Shwati, a convicted rapist, was beaten and hacked with pangas after he confessed to murdering the little girl and pointed out her naked body lying in a ditch behind a church. After Shwati was killed, police said SAPS members were on the scene, but “struggled to force their way through the mob to reach the suspect”. Shwati was already dead when the police reached him. Shortly before his death,
Shwati had completed a term of imprisonment for raping and assaulting a young girl in the nearby informal settlement of Qolweni. During the trial, the State presented evidence from four police officials who were on or near the scene when Shwati was killed. The court heard that two of the officers were not in a position to identify any of the accused, even though another had testified that he had seen Tuli using a stick to beat Shwati when other community members were still on the way to the scene. However, under cross examination the same officer admitted that he could not actually be certain if Tuli was beating Shwati, or merely threatening to beat him. Daan Dercksen, the men’s defence attorney, also pointed out discrepancies in the testimony of the state’s chief witness, KwaNokuthula station commissioner lieutenant-colonel Gideon Lugebu, who could not explain material differences between the original police statement and the evidence he presented under cross examination. Lugebu admitted that the sight of Nini’s body was so “shocking” that he could not think clearly upon its discovery. Prosecutor Aletta Stanvliet
Mossel Bay man shot in front of his son
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NE of the past fortnight’s most shocking police reports involve an incident in Dana Bay in the early morning hours of March 6. Four suspects armed with firearms and knives entered a house in Moquini Street around 3am. They woke an 11-year-old boy and took him to his parents’ room, where the 42-year-old father, Waldemar Strauss, was ordered to open a safe. Some of the men took his wife, 38, to the ground floor to open the safe in the lounge before tying her hands and feet with rope. A seven-year-old boy remained asleep in his room. Strauss’s hands and feet were tied with belts and he was shot once in the head. He passed
away on the scene. The suspects took several firearms - including a .270 hunting rifle, a .22 rifle, a 9mm pistol and a .38 revolver - cellphones and jewellery and fled the scene on foot. It is unclear how the men had entered the house. A case of murder and robbery was opened for investigation and anyone with information is requested to contact the investigating officer W/O Errol Barnard at the Kwanonqaba detective branch on 044 606 5609. No arrests had been made by our going to press. Vjtgg"cttguvgf"hqt" Itgcv"Dtcm"tqddgt{ Around 5am on March 9, three men forced open the back door
of a house in Great Brak River. One of the suspects went to the residents’ bedroom where he ordered the man, 68, and woman, 66, at gunpoint to go into the bathroom, where he locked the door behind them. Several items including a laptop, cash, jewellery, cameras and a cellphone were taken before the thieves fled the scene on foot. The couple sustained no serious injuries. Vigilant SAPS members from Mossel Bay spotted and arrested three suspects on the N2 near Glentana shortly after the robbery. Some of the stolen items were recovered and the men were expected to appear in the Mossel Bay magistrate’s court last Monday.
conceded that Lugebu’s testimony was unsatisfactory and the men had to be acquitted. Dercksen added that, given the lack of evidence, “no court
could find the accused guilty”. In his judgement, magistrate Herman Buhr said Shwati, “like any person”, had a right to life and the community had no right
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to take the law into their own hands. While he was guilty of the rape and murder of Nini, the “law should have followed its course”, adding that Shwati was staring a life sentence in the face in any event. In conclusion, Buhr told the court there was simply not enough evidence presented by the state to convict the three men, and ruled that they should be acquitted on the murder charges.
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Screaming chickens ruffle feathers in George John Harvey - Garden Route Media
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EATHERS continue to fly in George, where two neighbours have been at loggerheads for more than 12 years over one family’s determination to keep their “pet” chickens in the backyard. The dispute has become so heated that angry neighbour Johan McCarthy even appealed to Western Cape premier Helen Zille and George mayor Charles Standers to intervene and compel neighbours, mother and son Hester and Henk Greeff of 37 Merriman Street, to remove the crowing fowl. McCarthy claims that for years the chickens, which at one point numbered about 30 “but were now down to five, including two roosters”, had caused his elderly mother sleepless nights, and that since he and his wife had moved in a year ago they had also experienced the same “mental torture”. Arguing that a George municipal bylaw makes it illegal to keep chickens in an urban area, McCarthy laid a complaint with the George police in December 2011. The docket is now with the National Prosecuting Au-
thority (NPA) in Cape Town, where a decision is expected on how to proceed. While Hester Greeff, the owner of the house, said she was unable to comment because the matter was sub judice, son Henk says McCarthy is waging “a personal vendetta” against them. But McCarthy said his family had experienced years of the chickens’ supposed racket. “In the beginning they (the chickens) started screaming that’s the only way we can describe it - at 12am, and they just keep on screaming. “The last three years they started at around 3am. It is absolutely impossible to sleep with that screaming.” McCarthy said his wife was bipolar, and that often she would wake up crying because of the noise. A defiant Henk Greeff, however, claims he and his mother are being “terrorised” as part of a personal vendetta. “He (McCarthy) has been making my life hell. I even came home at 3am one morning from working night shift and
he was there making very personal insults about my mother. He is always walking on our property, so I told him that if he carried on doing that I would dnkmugo him,” Greeff said. “He then went to the police to lay a complaint of crimen injuria. I went to court myself though and the prosecutor said that this case was ridiculous and it was thrown out.” He said McCarthy apparently had a problem with his family
alone. “One of the other neighbours has huge chickens, and another even had a sheep on his property which was dníttkpi" (bleating) the whole time. Yet he says nothing about that. This is a personal vendetta and I am sick of it.” George municipality spokeswoman Debra Sauer confirmed that the mayor had been approached by McCarthy, but that the matter was now with the NPA.
Knysna welcomes new corporate services head
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NYSNA Municipality recently appointed Bevan Ellman as new director of Corporate Services - a position previously held by Reggie Smit, whose contract with the municipality concluded at the end of last year. Gumbi Tyelela has been acting in this position for the past two months. Knysna municipal manager Lauren Waring said she and her staff were looking forward to working with Ellman. “His experience at all levels of the municipal environment will be of great value and bring a new point of view on matters pertaining to his directorate. Originally from Oudtshoorn, Ellman holds a BSc degree in Information Technology (IT) and Operational Research and an Honours degree in Public Administration, both from the University of Stellenbosch. Until his appointment in Knysna he has worked at Hes-
QUALIFIED: Bevan Ellman has relocated from Riversdale with his young family and looks forward to serving the people of Knysna
sequa Municipality in Riversdale in various positions, including head of Supply Chain Management, IT manager and Corporate Services manager. Ellman’s most recent position saw him managing IT and Strategic Monitoring, which made him responsible for the strategic planning and monitoring of the municipality and its performance as well as compliance, operation clean audit, and all reporting. The Director Corporate Services is responsible for the administrative processes that ensure good governance and the achievement of council’s strategic objectives. It incorporates the departments of Administration, Committee Services, Estates, Human Resources, Legal Services, Property and Records Management, and Public Participation. Ellman’s appointment is the second of four directorships that are expected to be filled this year. Mike MaughanBrown was appointed director of Planning and Development in January. A new director of Community Services is expected to start in April, and the post of Technical Services director is currently in the recruitment process.
News & Views
March 13 - 2013
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Successful whale research continues in the Bay GWENITH PENRY of the University of Pretoria’s Whale Unit updates us on her team’s second season of getting to know our biggest marine mammals
MAJESTIC: A Bryde’s whale surfaces in the bay’s sparkling waters, with Beacon Island Hotel in the background Photo: Gwenith Penry
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T’S nearly that time of year again when the sea temperatures drop, the chlorophyll concentrations increase, and the small pelagic fish start moving to inshore waters around Plett. As a result of these conditions a wide variety of predators of sardine and anchovy follow suit and the autumn months of March to May is a great time to observe common dolphins, Cape gannets and South Africa’s largest resident predator, the Bryde’s whale. We, the Whale Unit (Mammal Research Institute: University of Pretoria), will soon embark on another season of research on these majestic but little known whales, and will conduct boat surveys in Plett from mid-March to April 12. The unit operates under a research permit issued by the Department of Environmental Affairs and in terms of section 83 of the Marine Living Resources Act (1998). This year, we will be working from our vessel Dcncgpc - a 6m RIB, yellow and grey in colour. Myself and Meredith Thornton will be assisted by several students and volunteers. Ian Thompson will be joining us again as a voluntary research assistant and Ryan Reisinger, a PhD student with the MRI who spends most of his time studying killer whales on Marion Island, will accompany us for the first 10 days. This is the second sampling year of the project and we hope to photograph and biopsy individuals seen last year. By using the natural markings and genotypes of animals identified in 2012, we hope to now recapture them and use this data
in mark-recapture models from which a population estimate can be made. During 2012, we conducted fieldwork in Plett, East London and False Bay and I have identified 54 new Bryde’s whales. That brings the number of identified individuals to 137, of which 83 were identified during my PhD research with the Centre for Dolphin Studies, from 2005-2008. Of all the locations we worked in last year, Plett was the most productive in terms of the number of days we could go to sea and the number of whales encountered. We only spotted two
Bryde’s whales in East London and although we saw plenty in False Bay, the weather was not kind and we found ourselves frustratingly land-bound on 12 out of 21 days. However, that is the nature of this type of work and we can but try to improve on what we achieved last year. We have allocated nearly double the amount of sea time for this year, but will not be working East London again. This decision was not taken lightly, but the unpredictable nature of the sardine run makes it too difficult for us to plan our fieldwork to coincide with the arrival of the sardines and their predators. Additionally, it costs around R45’000 to spend three weeks working an area and we cannot justify that cost for such a small sample size. Instead, we will sample False Bay and Plett twice this year in the hope of meeting our target of 80-100 identifications. It is believed that South Africa’s inshore Bryde’s whale population only totals a few hundred animals and, in order for them to be correctly managed and conserved, accurate assessments of their abundance, distribution and genetic diversity are required. We thank the sponsors of our 2012 fieldwork - the Rufford Small Grants for Nature Conservation Foundation (RSGF), the National Research Foundation (NFR), the Society for Marine Mammalogy (SMM), and Mazda Wildlife Fund - for their ongoing support in the form of a vehicle used for all work carried out by the Whale Unit.
Once again we intend to give at least one public presentation on our research while in Plett,
so keep your eyes peeled for dates and times. Last year’s presentation at the Beacon Isle was
very well attended and we hope to see you all, and a few more, there this year.
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Calendar Girls bestow their gifts on Plett volunteers Our front page on November 14 last year was adorned with the photo inset below, and inside told how the festive season sale of a risqué calendar featuring 12 scantily-clad local lasses would raise funds for Plett’s Men in Red and Cansacare ladies (visit www.cxpress.co.za and click on the Entertainment page of issue 352) – read on for the happy ending to their tale
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ARCH 7 was an exciting day for Plett’s Calendar Girls, as they finally handed over the fruits of their fundraising efforts to NSRI Station 14 and the Cansacare team. During a merry sundowner function at the hi-tech rescue base on Central Beach, Sally Garmany, aka ‘Miss June’, ably assisted by Bitou mayor Memory Booysen presented station commander Deon Truter and his crew with three pieces of valuable equipment. A pulse oximeter and suction unit, used to remove water inhaled by drowning victims, were among the items procured from the calendar’s proceeds. But by far the most exciting item donated was the handheld night-vision scope which will enable the town’s NSRI volunteers to detect people up to 300m away, both in the water and on land. This means that Plett now leads the field as the first NSRI station in South Africa to have one of these valuable scopes. The Calendar Girls were ob-
JOB WELL DONE: Calendar Girls project initiator Sally Garmany ‘test-drives’ one of the two automated hospital beds donated to Plett Cansacare, with Bitou mayor Memory Booysen, June Milburn-Pyle, Justine Butler from RCA, Pat Henderson, and Dee Minikin at back from left
viously thrilled to assist Plett’s 32-strong NSRI team in saving more lives along our shores. Another exciting outcome of their fundraising efforts was an extremely generous offer from RCA in Joburg, of two fully automated high-sided hospital
beds for Plett’s Cansacare unit, thus availing funds for the Calendar Girls to purchase many other items of equipment for Cansacare’s good use. RCA sales representative Justine Butler personally attended last Thursday’s handover to
present Pat Henderson with the state-of-the-art beds. Just over R150’000 was raised by the Calendar Girls, of which R42’000 covered the costs of producing the tastefully naughty desktop calendar. The idea of raising funds for these two worthy causes came from Sally, who was inspired by the 2003 UK film entitled Ecngpfct"Iktnu, to initiate a fun creative way of acknowledging the town’s gratitude to volunteers who freely give of their time to these essential services. “The Plett community really dug deep and supported the initiative 100%, and mayor Memory Booysen endorsed it from the very start,” said Sally after the handover. “His enthusiasm was infectious, giving the girls the energy required to both create and market the calendar.” Congratulating all involved on a job well done, ‘Miss June’ then concluded the ceremony with a challenge: “Now it’s high time the wives of our NSRI boys get started on creating the 2014 calendar!”
News & Views The cover story of the current edition of Pgy" Uvcvguocp, one of England’s most respected and influential periodicals that reports on current affairs and topical news, is entitled ‘The Shadow of Pistorius’ and is written by Hedley Twidle, son of Plett resident and CXPRESS contributor Timothy Twidle. Hedley is a prize-winning essayist and lecturer at the University of Cape Town. Visit www. newstatesman.com/2013/02/ weeks-new-statesman-shadowpistorius for the full story. Bookings are rolling in for the fourth Knysna Literary Festival from Octej" 3;/46. Highlights of this year’s programme include the political panel chaired by Ivo Vegter, author of Gz/ vtgog"Gpxktqpogpv, with guests Mandy Rossouw (Mkpiu" cpf" Mkpiocmgtu), Adriaan Basson (\woc"Gzrqugf) and Shaka Si-
March 13 - 2013 sulu (Dgeqokpi). Guests will be able to join in the debate about Zuma’s second term, the state of the ANC, and how recent developments are likely to shape its performance in the 2014 elections. The festival lineup also features the Delicious Word Journey, Deon Meyer on his best-selling South African crime thrillers, and a chat to local authors Duncan de Vaal (Yknf" Chtkecp" Cfxgpvwtg), Steve Reeder (Cftgpcnkpg" Twuj), Pixie Emslie (Et{"qh"vjg"Tqemu), and James Fouché (Lcem"Jcpi/ gt). Book online at www.knysnaliteraryfestival.co.za or at Pam Golding Knysna, and contact Sasha Campbell on 082 450 9301 or at mailsashac@gmail. com for more info. The Knysna Plett Concert Series presents pianist Lucas Vondracek on Octej"42 at 7:30pm. His programme at Knysna DRC
CXPRESS
Notice Board Hall in Fichat St will include works by Brahms, Rachmaninov and Scriabin - tickets at the door cost R100 (scholars R20). Bitou’s libraries present World Poetry Day on Octej" 42 at New Horizons Central Library at 12 noon. The event will feature live music and lots of fun, and will also see the crowning of Bitou’s Poet of the Year (interested poets and poetry readers can phone the library on 044 501 3129 for info). If readers have good quality books and current magazines to donate to Plett’s Friends of the Library, please call Di Butlin on 082 569 2571. The books are used to stock Bitou’s libraries or sold to purchase new books, with the next book sale scheduled for the
Easter holidays. Kurland Hotel in The Crags will celebrate Earth Hour on Octej"45 by creating a gourmet dinner braai at 7:30pm at R260 per adult and R80 for kids. Chef Leon Coetzee will create a gourmet braai, including many vegetarian options, instead of using conventional cooking methods to honour Mother Nature. Call 044 534 8082 or email reservations@kurland.co.za to book. Born in Africa thanks Woolworths and BI Kwikspar for their kind donations of food that fills hungry learners’ tummies at after-school meetings, Adventure Land for the use of their pool in BIA’s Learn to Swim programme, and Moniek
and Freddy Schroeders for their donation of an umbrella and chairs. Remember the BIA 10year celebration on Octej" 4:" - join them for a street parade at 12 noon and show at Piesang Valley Hall at 2:30pm.
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contributions towards the first aid kit. Deposits can be made into their account at FNB Plett (210514) acc no 62200914019 (reference: ‘First Aid Kit’). Contact Lisa Incendiario on 083 704 0919 for further info.
The Khweszi Lomso Project looks after the poorest in Qolweni, including orphans, HIV victims and the elderly. They desperately need basic foodstuffs to keep going, so any donations of samp, beans, rice, split peas, veg, bread and meaty bones will assist greatly. Call Mrs Nomzamo on 078 101 7738 or Mrs Phumeza on 078 877 7805 if you can help. Bitou Horse Welfare attends to the needs of equines in Plett and Knysna, and is in need of a horse first aid kit and local animal lovers are asked for assistance with supplies or financial
ECO-FIGHTER: Ivo Vegter, author of ‘Extreme Environment’, will chair the political panel at the Knysna Literary Festival from March 19-24
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Read CXPRESS online @ www.cxpress.co.za
Go Wild - and win - with CapeNature’s all access card It’s a global trend that holidaymakers are searching for a little extra. In SA, CapeNature leads the way with a series of unique experiences that combine outdoor adventure with comfort, culture and more. With a Wild Card you don’t have to limit yourself. Available in different options for individuals, couples and families, the Wild Card offers members a year’s free entry to more than 80 reserves and parks in Southern Africa. Buy or renew an All Parks Wild Card by March 31 and you stand to win an adventure in Anysberg. The Planet Trek in Anysberg Nature Reserve (see picture) is an overnight horse trail to a secluded corner of the Klein Karoo, where dark skies offer magnificent stargazing opportunities – visit www.wildcard.co.za for more information. Garden Routers can purchase a Wild Card online or from the CapeNature office in George. A special call centre deals with Wild Card queries - dial 0861 GO WILD (0861 46 9453) with your membership questions.
ADVERTORIAL
Working together to save you money Builders Warehouse, leaders in home improvement, brings a new shopping experience to George on March 21
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HE new Builders Warehouse officially opens its doors at 7am on Thursday March 21. The store is located in the Eden Meander Lifestyle Centre on the corner of the N2 and Knysna Road in George. Builders Warehouse believes that the secret of successful retailing is giving customers what they want. Discover a whole new world of DIY with the largest selection of good-quality merchandise the comprehensive range includes the following: • Bathroom • Building materials • Cement • Electrical • Flooring (tiles, laminates, and fitted carpets) • Hand tools • Hardware • Garden plants and accessories • Lighting • Outdoor • Kitchens and accessories • Patio • Décor • Paint and accessories • Plumbing • Civil • Pool • Power tools • Security • Sanitaryware and accessories • Trusses A complete range of services complements these products, available at the lowest possible prices and with satisfaction guaranteed. Friendly, knowledgeable staff, convenient hours, and free parking combine for a particularly pleasant shopping experience. The new store’s design and layout is easy to navigate and helps define the store’s merchandise areas. Directional signage on every aisle helps customers find what they are looking for and creates an inviting shopping excursion. Environmentally-friendly features - as with all new Builders Warehouse stores - include energy-efficient
technology and eco-friendly systems that reduce energy and water consumption while minimising waste. The economic impact of new jobs created is also hugely positive. Builders Express and Builders Trade Depot merged to bring customers a bigger and better retail experience with the opening of the new Builders Warehouse store. All the familiar faces you know have been retained with an additional 25 staff being employed from the local community, all of whom will benefit from full skills development and training. As far as corporate social responsibility initiatives go, Builders Warehouse encourages continuous engagement and participation with the communities in which their stores operate, and are committed to supporting and promoting initiatives that focus on educational sustainability. With the opening of Builders Warehouse, Siyazama Pre-School - which received a makeover in August 2012 - will be presented with the Builders Siyasiza toolkit, thus enabling them to maintain the school. Ykp"c"T32‚222"ocmgqxgt"hqt" {qwt"uejqqn#" A drawing competition for all primary school children in the area has been launched, and the winner’s school will receive a R10’000 Builders Warehouse voucher. ‘Working together to bring our customers everyday low prices’ is the motto of store manager Andrew Langeveld and his team. They look forward to welcoming and serving old and new customers at their exciting new store. Trading hours are Monday to Friday 7:30-18:00, Saturday 8:00-17:00, and 8:0015:00 on Sundays and public holidays. Ugg"vjg"cfxgtv"qp"rcig";"hqt" cffkvkqpcn"kphqtocvkqp0
Promotion
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Knysna entrepreneurs benefit from joint initiative
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WENTY-FOUR local entrepreneurs received a boost to their fledgling businesses following training and a donation of equipment worth R250’000, as formed part of a Small Medium & Micro Enterprises incubator project initiated by Knysna Municipality and supported by Nedbank.
Designed by the municipality’s Economic Development Unit to develop entrepreneurs, the project is in its third cycle and has assisted 51 SMMEs over the past three years. Municipal manager Lauren Waring said: “The municipality’s incubator programme not only supplies continued support
and guidance, but also assists in the facilitation of access to seed funding through its relationship with Nedbank. “We are immensely grateful
towards Nedbank for their willingness to provide continued financial assistance to our entrepreneurs. And in addition to getting 51 SMMEs up and run-
PROFIT PROSPECTS: At the SMME Incubator function were, from left, Nedbank Knysna acting branch manager Jualette de Klerk, Knysna Business Chamber president Ian Corbett, Knysna mayor Georlene Wolmarans, Economic Development manager Ilse van Schalkwyk, Municipal Projects officer Allan River, and SEDA George acting branch manager Paul Hofmann
Tax Matters
Sean O’Connell - M.Com (Tax), CA (SA)
Gordhan speech at a glance
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INANCE minister Pravin Gordhan has provided us with a relatively consistent national budget in terms of government spending pressure and low economic growth. Thankfully, the bias was towards sustainability given the tight rein on spending instead of raising taxes to stay within government spending plans. However, in spite of the conservative nature of the budget, government is under some pressure with its revenue collections well below expectations. In the greater scheme of things, the minister concentrated on investment for infrastructure and placed more emphasis on the role of the private sector as a driver for increasing economic growth. Growth is targeted as 5% per annum, which appears ambitious in the short term given the drive to curtail spending and the lower than expected growth coming from Europe and the Far East, to boost South African exports in order to promote economic growth. On the personal taxes front there is some relief with inflation adjusted bracket creep, increases in the medical rebate and tax-free interest allowance,
while tax-free scholarships for employee families and a carryforward of excess Section 18A allowable donations will bring additional tax relief. On the down side are increases in the fuel levy as well as sin taxes. The intended areas and proposals that the Finance minister will look at are the introduction of tax-preferred savings and investments, the treatment of retirement funds, and a review of the control over abuse in the taxation of trusts. One of the proposals is not to recognise the flow-through principle for dividend income and capital gains, making these distributions taxable in the trust and no longer tax free in the hands of beneficiaries....ouch! However, the proposed legislation for trusts in this regard still has to go through the public comment process. Our suggestion is to embrace this national budget and not to make any unnecessary adjustments - but you are welcome to contact us with any queries you may have in this regard. Rjqpg"Ugcp"qt"Lgtgo{"cv" Cpftgyu"Q‚Eqppgnn"hqt"hwtvjgt" kphqtocvkqp"⁄"ugg"vjg"cfxgtv"qp" vjku"rcig"hqt"eqpvcev"fgvcknu0
ning since 2010, the businesses themselves have been enabled to employ 83 others, ultimately benefiting as many families in the greater Knysna area. “Projects such as these are excellent examples of how local government and business can work together to the benefit of the town,” said Waring. The SMME Incubator project each year invites local entrepre-
neurs to apply to participate in the programme. Each qualifying applicant is interviewed and carefully selected based on his or her business model and strategy and its potential to succeed. As part of extensive skills training, participants develop business plans and identify equipment specific to the needs of their businesses. Seed equipment, funded this year by the R25’000 Nedbank grant contribution, has been installed at the successful applicants’ places of business.
Budget brings good news for homeowners, but rising costs bug EEFF chairman Samuel pecially for the lower to midS Seeff has added his voice market property sector - we to that of corporate SA and are nonetheless pleased with economists in hailing Finance minister Pravin Gordhan’s 2013 Budget as a step in the right direction to encourage investment, economic and job growth, and improved living conditions where it’s needed the most. While there is some good news for homeowners, Seeff says that rising costs remain a concern, most notably the additional fuel and other levies. “The reduction in personal tax for lower income groups should help free up some disposable cash and we urge bondholders to invest any savings into their home loans. “The lower tax rate along with incentives for small businesses and youth employment should all be seen as encouraging for greater economic participation and job creation - vital to allow more people the opportunity to become homeowners. “Provisions for low-income housing and upgrades are also good news for the country along with the significant infrastructure development plans, especially around basic services and transport,” says Seeff. “Aside from job creation benefits, we are encouraged by the improvement that these programmes will make to the standard of living of our people. “While we would have liked to see lower property transaction costs, rates and taxes - es-
the positive stance taken by the minister. “Even at the top end of the market, some incentive could have served to stimulate demand and encourage property investment that should always be seen in light of the greater economic benefits, which includes GDP contribution.” Seeff expressed optimism about the market, saying that improvement in market sentiment and activity in 2012 has carried into this year, with many Seeff branches reporting improved demand and sales volumes. “There is significant demand out there and 2013 should be a good year for property, especially in the sub-R2M sector. Turnover should be up, but prices are likely to remain static. “Well-priced properties are starting to move faster and many of our areas are reporting stock shortages.” He urged sellers and buyers to remain cognisant of economic factors and influences, as market-related pricing remained vital for sellers who hoped to conclude successful transactions. “Keep an eye on your wallets and ensure you buy well within your means, investing any spare cash into your bonds.” Gockn"ikpc0ogkpvlguBugghh0eqo" qt"ecnn"243"6:3"3266"cpf"ugg" vjg"Ugghh"cfxgtv"qp"rcig"5"hqt" oqtg"kphqtocvkqp0
Business
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N the previous edition we discussed some details to be considered when preparing your personal profile. This time round, I provide an outline on criteria used to fully understand your current investments. There are two steps to be considered. Firstly, you must understand the mechanics of the products that house your investments, and then attempt to calculate your current asset allocation. Investment products are generally divided into two categories, namely the so-called “compulsory money” that includes products like Retirement Annuities (RAs), Preservation Funds, Provident Funds and any pension funds that emanate from your employer. These are efficient investment
March 13 - 2013
Investor Focus
CXPRESS Malcolm Stewart – Portfolio Manager at Sanlam Private Investments Knysna
Notes on your Needs Analysis - Part II products, as the investments within them attract zero tax. Unfortunately, we have a legacy problem with many of these products as you were originally penalised for early withdrawals, while being exposed to very high cost structures. The current rules are continuously being relaxed due to pressure from the Financial Services Board. RAs, for instance, can now be transferred and consolidated. Many retirees have several RAs (I recently consulted with a client holding
seven of these), which should be consolidated - the cost of this process should be negligible, however, some insurance companies still levy a penalty. All of these compulsory products must be converted into annuities. There are many types of annuities, all of which offer a regular income. Traditional Annuities are sold by insurance companies. There are many variations of these annuities, some offering a set income for life and others an escalating income. Some die
when you do, while others can be continued by your spouse in part or in whole. Then there are Living Annuities, which hold investments controlled by you. You could do your own investing or use the services of an investment advisor or portfolio manager. They may invest in either unit trusts or directly into equities or bonds listed on the JSE. A mixture of both is also possible. On converting your RA into an annuity, you may withdraw various amounts starting with
R300’000 or one-third of the value without paying any tax on the funds withdrawn. You may then withdraw further amounts at escalating tax rates. The annuity you then begin to draw is fully taxable and can vary from 2.5% to 17.5% of the total value of funds within the Living Annuity. Today’s rules allow for the amalgamation of your LAs highly recommended, as it will reduce your cost s and allow for more efficient investing. There should be zero costs associated
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with merging various LAs. Your so-called “voluntary money” investments can be varied and include any offshore investments, money market deposits, endowments, etc. Again, it is important to understand the rules that may govern these investments, e.g. an endowment attracts tax at ±30% so it would be foolish to continue holding any investments in an endowment if your average tax rate is less than 30%. This is a brief description of some of the products you may own, and finer details should be obtained from your advisor. Ocneqno"jcu"dggp"kp"vjg" kpxguvogpv"kpfwuvt{"hqt"qxgt" 62"{gctu0"Jg"jcu"ytkvvgp"vjku" eqnwop"kp"EZRTGUU"hqt"vjg" ncuv"36"{gctu"cpf"ku"c"urgekcnkuv" kp"ocpcikpi"tgvktgf"ygcnvj0
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Social Scene
March 13 - 2013
RIDE 4 RECOVERY: Cape Town will be the first city in Africa to host the 17th Reach to Recovery Breast Cancer Support Conference, with an estimated 400 attendees, from March 20-22. The goal is to improve the quality of life for breast cancer victims and the conference will appeal to women and men across the world. To widen the reach of the campaign, several motorcyclists will bike from Cape Town to Plettenberg Bay and back under the banner of Ride4Recovery. Funds raised during this inaugural ride, set to become an annual event uniting survivors and supporters, will be used to provide prosthesis to needy patients and to start cancer buddy support groups for Garden Route patients and their families. The riders will spend their first night at Keurboomsriver and, on March 23, will be part of an outreach to The Crags community before returning via Route 62 on the 24th. Email mimi@gojipr.net or call 084 583 3144 for more information.
MEGA-LURVE: Congrats to Jody Strydom of MegaSat in Plett who married his beloved Janica (née Janse van Rensburg) on February 23 at Riverside Hall in Port Elizabeth. May your love and happiness abound forever more.
TRIPOD’S TREAT: Stephen Ritchie emailed this pic of his wife, Lara, who owns Pampered Pooch grooming parlour in Plett, with Marne van den Heever and his threelegged dog, Tripod, when she treated him to a free wash and groom on March 6. The man-pooch team stopped along the Route while on their 1’400km walk from Cape Town to Pretoria. Marne, 69, pushes Tripod along in a wheelchair to raise awareness around the problems faced by disabled dogs and people, and to test whether he could turn the long walk into a fundraising event at a later stage. Having rescued the three-legged sheep dog from a shelter last year, Marne said the disabled pup moved him to draw attention to the plight of people and pets with disabilities. The Prince Alfred’s Hamlet man has modified the canine’s ride, even adding an umbrella and compartments for food and water.
People, places & events
FABULOUS FORMOSA RAFFLE: Organisers of the Parish of Formosa’s recent bakkie raffle thank everyone who bought tickets, thus contributing to worthwhile community projects. The Right Reverend Brian Marajh, Bishop of the Diocese of George, drew the winning tickets at St Mary’s Church in New Horizons on March 3 in the presence of some 400 Parish members. First prize winner of a brand new NP 200 Nissan bakkie was Pam Stevens of Plettenberg Bay. The second prize of a 32-inch Sony LCD flat-screen TV was won by Revd Sharon Domingo-Blaauw of New Horizons, with the third prize of R2’000 worth of Market Square shopping vouchers going to Mente Nomfundiso of KwaNokuthula. Congratulations on winning these fantastic prizes, and a big thank you to Knysna Nissan, Kloppers of Knysna, The Market Square centre management, and The Print Shop for printing and donating the raffle tickets. In the pic from left are Dr Mark Marais, Peter Gaylard, Revd Brian Marajh, Richard Houston and Peter Stratten during the ticket draw. - Photo: Ray Friedman Photography
SMOOTH MOVE: Plett Pre-Primary’s Shavathon on Friday March 1 was a great success, well supported by the children, parents and friends of the school. Well done to everybody for this worthy contribution to the fight against cancer. In the photo from left, teacher Susannie, headmaster Renè, and former chairlady Claire display their smooth new craniums. They thank Merle for coming to facilitate the shaving, spraying, gelling and stencilling at the school and say: ‘We can’t wait to see what next year brings - see you there!’
Sports Scene
March 13 - 2013
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VICTORIOUS! These images are some of the hundreds captured by Martin Hurwitz during two nail-biter days on King’s Beach, where the East Cape regional Nipper championships were hosted by this competitive Port Elizabeth livesaving club on March 2 & 3. Individual achievements too numerous to mention here combined to secure Plett Surf’s comprehensive win, but suffice to say that each age group put in sterling performances to achieve this goal for the second year in a row, and the first time away from home. The U10s and U12s each won their age groups on points, while the U14s attained a laudable second place. The final tally saw Plett Surf winning the overall competition, followed by hosts King’s Beach, East London in third place, and PE’s Summer Strand and Hobie Beach clubs fourth and fifth. Visit the Plett Surf Facebook page for more photos.
STAND-OUT PERFORMERS: In the pics are those Nippers who claimed Competitor of the Championship trophies in their respective age categories - from left are U9 boys winner Henri van Huyssteen, left, pictured here with high-scoring team mates Jameel Cassim and Doug Harvey, right; at centre, twins Emma and Oliver Roode were declared top girl and boy in the U11 age group; and Sam Orsmond – another of Plett Surf’s twins, along with brother Josh – won top U13 boy, congrats to you all! - Photos: Martin Hurwitz
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Let’s see your pets through YOUR eyes!
Competition
March 13 - 2013
ENTER NOW! THEME NO. 8: THE LITTLE ONES DEADLINE FOR ENTRIES: 21 MARCH 2013 WINNER ANNOUNCED: 27 MARCH 2013
Example
Current Theme: THE LITTLE ONES
A few of our favourite entries received so far...
Over R20 000 worth of prizes to be won! Sponsored by:
This theme-based competition is open to all Garden Route residents. Your photographic abilities should not be a stumbling block - we will be looking at your ability to portray the personality of the animal you capture. Follow the Challenge in CXPRESS and on the CXPRESS Garden Route Newspaper Facebook Page. HOW THE CHALLENGE WORKS • The CXPRESS PICTURE YOUR PET CHALLENGE is a theme-based competition with the focus on domesticated animals. There are 10 themes and four categories (dogs, cats, birds, and other domesticated species), and a prize per theme for the winner in each category is announced in every alternate edition of CXPRESS. A grand prize winner in each category will be selected from the 10 theme winners at the end of the Challenge. • A theme (see below) is announced at the onset of each Challenge. The judges select any of these themes at random at the start of each new Challenge, and readers then have two weeks to capture and submit photos that they consider best depict the theme. • Winning entries with the judges’ observations are published in CXPRESS and on the CXPRESS Garden Route Newspaper Facebook Page. THE PRIZES • Dog Category: Theme winners - A Rogz voucher and 3kg Propac veterinary food and toys valued at R400. Grand prize - An Axiss Dog-powered Scooter valued at R3 999. • Cat Category: Theme winners - Hagen Catit Senses toy, cat accessories, and Nutrience veterinary super premium food valued at R350. Grand prize - Cat bed, scratching post, food & treats valued at R650. • Bird Category: Theme winners - Daro pet supplies voucher and Petline voucher to the combined value of R400. Grand prize - Daro bird cage suited to bird size up to the value of R1 000. • Other Domesticated Species: Theme winners - A R250 Pet Pool Warehouse voucher. Grand prize - A R500 Pet Pool Warehouse voucher. • Each winner will also receive an A3 full colour print of their winning photo, courtesy of Kodak Express. HOW TO ENTER • Submit no more than two entries per theme to editor@cxpress.co.za or post directly on the CXPRESS Garden Route Newspaper Facebook Page – a new EVENT will be created for each theme (please enter your photos on the wall of the EVENT and not on the page wall) - or deliver entries on CD at the CXPRESS office at 6 Park Lane, Plettenberg Bay. • Entries must be in Jpeg (.jpg) format and no larger than 400KB. • Provide your name, location, and contact details. THE RULES • Only Garden Route residents may enter • All photos must be taken by the person whose name is submitted with the entries • Entries will only be accepted in electronic format • Entries that have no relation to the theme whatsoever will not be considered • No late entries will be accepted • For layout purposes, CXPRESS reserves the right to crop photos published in the paper • The judges’ decision is final and no correspondence will be entered into. THE THEMES (which the judges select at random) • Animal smiles • The little ones • Owner/pet look-alike • In relax mode • Feeding time • All eyes • Cuddles with the family • At play • A moment to remember • Funny pics with captions
Tako & Babbel say thanks! Emmy & Steff Aufschneider, who won Theme 7 - ‘A Moment to Remember’, submitted this pic along with a message from Tako & Babbel, who tweeted: “This photo is to say thank you very much for our prize in the bird category!” They have chosen lots of lovely parrot food and a play-thing for their dog. We thank our generous sponsors, Pet Pool Warehouse in Knysna.
SUBMITTED BY: From top left to right - Emmy & Steff Aufschneider, Claire Everard, Vivien Harpur, Dave Lodge, Kegan Everard, Jeannine Stopforth, Rozelle Zamudio, Marisel Janse van Noorwyk, Shelley O’Moore, and Lance Rothschild
Visit the Events tab on the CXPRESS GARDEN ROUTE NEWSPAPER Facebook Page to view more entries - and submit your entries before March 21!
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March 13 - 2013
Surviving a hell of a day
HERE I was sitting at the bar staring at my drink when a large, trouble-making biker steps up next to me, grabs my drink and gulps it down in one swig. “Well, whatcha gonna do about it?” he says, menacingly, as I burst into tears. “Come on, man,” the biker says, “I didn’t think you’d CRY.
I can’t stand to see a grown man crying.” “This is the worst day of my life,” I say. “I’m a complete failure. I was late to a meeting and my boss fired me. When I went to the parking lot, I found my car had been stolen and I don’t have any insurance. “I left my wallet in the taxi I took home. I found my wife
with another man... and then my dog bit me. “So I came to this bar to work up the courage to put an end to it all. I buy a drink, I drop a capsule in and sit here watching the poison dissolve… and then you show up and drink the whole damn thing! “But, hell, enough about me how are you doing?”
In the psychology class…
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HE professor showed a large cage with a male rat in it. The rat was in the middle of the cage. Then, the professor placed a piece of cake on one side and kept a female rat on the other side. The male rat ran towards the cake and ate it. The professor then changed the cake and replaced it with some bread. The male rat ran towards the bread.
This experiment went on with the professor changing the food every time. And, in each case, the male rat ran towards the food item and never towards the female rat. The professor said: “This experiment shows that food is invariably the greatest strength and attraction.” Then, one of the students from the back row suggested: “Sir, why don’t you change the female rat? She may be his wife!”
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Senior moments
was paying for my groceries at the check-out when the cashier said: “Strip down, facing me.” Making a mental note so I could complain to the management about this running-amok security rubbish, I did just as she had instructed. After the shrieking and hysterical remarks subsided, I found out that she was referring to how I should position my credit card. Nonetheless, I’ve been asked to shop elsewhere in the future. But, really, they need to make their instructions a little more clear for us seniors. ---I was visiting my daughter and son-in-law last night when I asked if I could perhaps borrow a newspaper. “This is the 21st century, old man,” my son-in-law said. “We don’t waste money on newspapers. Here, why don’t you borrow my iPad?” Well I can tell you, that bloody fly never knew what hit it.
You don’t need a parachute to skydive. But you do need a parachute to skydive twice...
CXPRESS
Sy bloed is blou
K
LEIN Wimpie is ‘n getroue Blou Bul ondersteuner en dis weer ‘n wedstryd tussen die Bulle en die Stormers. Hy gaan Loftus toe en neem sy plek in op die mees gesogte en duurste seisoenkaarjie sitplek - op die hoofpaviljoen en regoor die middellyn. Hy sit langs ‘n man wat baie nuuskierig uitvis: “Boetman, maar jy is darem baie bevoorreg om hier te kan sit. Sê my, by wie kry jy die kaartjie?” Wimpie: “By my pa, Oom.” Man: “En waar is jou pa?” Wimpie: “Hy’s by die huis, Oom.” Man: “Hoekom dan so?” Wimpie: “Ek dink hy soek sy kaartjie.”
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Food & Wine
March 13 - 2013
First round of Plett’s favourite cook-off goes West’s way Words & photo: Timothy Twidle
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O You Think You Can Cook on a Cadac was launched on March 1 at LM in Plett restaurant, conveniently located in the Main Street of town. Master of ceremonies on the night was Bruce Noble, winner of So You Think You Can Cook 2012, which was successfully hosted by the same venue last year. Sue van der Gaast of local community radio station MC90.3FM introduced Bruce and welcomed everyone to the first round of this year’s popular cook-off competition, which saw contestants Frankie de Klerk and Paul West battle it out behind their respective gasfired hobs. Frankie, of Green Steam fame,
cooked a tasty fillet of springbok with dukkah spice, which he presented with a mango and peach curry and a side dish of coriander and cucumber. But Paul pulled out all the stops with an extensive threecourse extravaganza... Starting off with chorizo and clams, his main course of deboned leg of lamb and black olive sauce was accompanied by vegetable kebabs and sweet corn. A dessert of roasted peaches and nectarines with almond-flavoured biscuit filling and vanilla pod ice cream concluded the meal. This offering by Paul - who readers will recognise as the face behind Ice Palazzo’s coun-
THEY COOKED... WITH GAS! LM in Plett owner Luiz da Fonseca is flanked by contestants Frankie de Klerk, left, and Paul West before their night of serious cookery commenced
ter of delights - was declared the winner by a panel of four judges. Uq" [qw" Vjkpm" [qw" Ecp" Eqqm" qp" c" Ecfce" twpu" gxgt{" Vjwtu/
PeeBee’s Wine Column
fc{" gxgpkpi" hqt" ugxgtcn" yggmu" vq"eqog"/"ecnn"Nwk|"qp"266"755" 3642" qt" xkukv" {qwvjkpm{qwec" peqqm" qp" Hcegdqqm0eqo" hqt" oqtg"kphqtocvkqp0 Words & Photo: Peter Bishop
Meet the ‘Silent Winner’ and the Raats Brothers OGNOSCENTI internabernet Franc, MR is now (since C tionally are starting to rate the excellent vintage of 2009) the MR Compostella among the blended with Cabernet Sauvigtop five in SA, and yet it is not often written about. Instead, the M and the R - being Mzokhona Mvemve and Bruwer Raats - have built up the wine for close on a decade, producing only 500 six-cases. Both are qualified winemakers who started their friendship when they met as students. The Compostella is “the vision of our taste – our ideal”. Originally exclusively of Ca-
non and Merlot, and a touch of Petit Verdot. The black cherries and darker berries are intense, with the oak giving structure. They do not strive to replicate the same profile each year, but rather use the Stellenbosch grapes to reflect that vintage. The initial 2004 won 93 points in Ykpg"Urgevcvqt, and the 2007 and 2009 are five-star wines. Robert Parker awarded 96
LONG-TIME LOCALS: George Parkes of Knysna, left, toasts his recent 50th birthday with friend Jaspar Bruwer of Koru fame
points to the 2006 - an honour unmatched. It is not Bruwer’s intention to simulate an international taste nor to compete, but “to bring something new to the world”. That uniqueness comes from sourcing from two different types of soil: decomposed granite and Table Mountain sandstone. Bruwer’s experience in Bordeaux, the Napa, Germany and Tuscany has made him conscious of the wider world. Cabernet Franc is the dominant grape on the right bank of Bordeaux, and the favourite of Bruwer. “Tough, often difficult, only for specialists, it can endure for decades. Berry fruit, herbaceous and spicy - cinnamon, nutmeg, coriander - it’s able to reach a third dimension in
structure and aromatics. Velvety, silky, great tannin and acids, Cabernet Franc has it all.” Locally, Zachary’s at Pezula offer the Compostella on its fine list. Bruwer is named after family relations - the Bruwers of Knysna. In his private capacity as joint owner of the Raats Family Winery, Bruwer has introduced a Raats Cabernet Franc that already scores 41/2 stars, and the Red Jasper - mostly from Cabernet Franc - that honours his father. For the more peasant among us, he makes the Dolomite Cabernet Franc. From the 50-year-old bush vines of low yield on the farm, Bruwer produces a Family Chenin Blanc of intensity quince, fennel, minerality, with a lovely grip. Grown on two different soils, the sandstone shows white pears and quince, the granite citrus and minerality. The wine matures excellently over years. Younger brother Jasper has also travelled extensively. He worked with Henri Bourgeoise in Sancerre, and then went to New Zealand to produce the Clos Henri range at Mutare Hills. He then took the leap to make the hugely impressive Koru Pinot Noir and Koru Sauvignon Blanc under his own initiative. Returning to South Africa he was head-hunted by Longridge Winery in Somerset West to monitor the vineyards and to lead the winemaking team. His ultimate aim is to go biodynamic, conscious as he is of biodiversity issues... Well worth watching. RggDgg"jcu"mgrv"jku"rcncvg" cnkxg"ukpeg"3;97"yjgp"jg"ogv" Dgglc{"Ncpmyctfgp"kp"vjg" Yknfgtpguu0"Jg"gzrnqtgu"nqecn." pcvkqpcn"cpf"kpvgtpcvkqpcn" ykpgu."nqqmkpi"hqt"flvjg" ewvvkpi"gfig‚0
Home & Health
March 13 - 2013
CXPRESS
Bronzes n roses combine at Bosky Dell exhibition his own right. The Leggats will be exhibiting at the prestigious Animal Art Fair on London’s South Bank this September, but good news for locals is that later this month, sculptures by the formidable fathe r and son team will be placed among the Bosky Dell roses for a particularly
M
ANY Plett readers will be familiar with the gorgeous Bosky Dell Rose Garden on the farm of Gregory and Rae Gilbert, its turnoff from the N2 almost opposite The Heath. Rae’s rose magic is a sight to behold in spring, but seeing the flowers in their glorious autumnal flush is as satisfying an aesthetic experience. And now there’s an event in the pipeline that will add an arty dimension to the floral eye-candy... Plett artist Robert Leggat started Bronze Fields Foundry in 2006, where he sculpts and regularly exhibits, instructing on the complexities of casting during bronze pours. A year ago, he was joined by his son, Brendan – a budding artist in
In the Garden Sarah Pearce
ONE BIRD IN THE ROSE BUSH: ‘Karoo Prinia’ by world-renowned Plett sculptor Robert Leggat will be raffled up to ticket-holders
Good causes gain from Harvest Time’s fundraiser
Wil Hiemstra, centre - who along with husband Menno has been running the friendly and down to earth Harvest Time farmers market for more than 12 years - recently handed a donation of R5’000 each to Di Butlin of Plett Animal Welfare Services, right, and Anne Fredericks of Epilepsy SA’s South Cape/ Karoo branch. The money was raised on December 16 & 17 last year during the Harvest Time’s highly successful festive season Christmas market. The Hiemstras say a big thank you to all stallholders who traded during those two days, and also thank their loyal team of traders for offering locals and visitors the most amazing local products and produce for well over a decade. Well done to all involved! See advert on page 4.
Small trees for small gardens
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ERE are a few suggestions for suitable trees for the smaller garden: Yjkvg" Mctgg" /" A very hardy and water wise tree, this is an attractive form-tree with a slightly weeping growth. The bark is grey and becomes course and flaky as the tree matures. It has panicles of tiny green-yellow flowers which are followed by edible berries enjoyed by birds. Vtgg"Ykuvgtkc"/"This truly elegant tree casts a neat, elongated silhouette in the landscape. It has large bunches of showy, Wisteria-like purple flowers from spring to early summer. The bark is rough and fissured and the main trunk has great character once the tree reaches maturity. It is, however, a rather slow grower. Yknf"Rgct"/"One of the best for small gardens, this is a showstopper in spring with masses of white/baby-pink blossoms. This fast-growing tree turns into a spectacular form-plant in winter, with its gnarled branches and corky bark. Top Tip:"If possible, wait until the cooler months to plant your trees; if not, ensure that your tree gets plenty water until it is well established. Happy planting! Eqpvcev"Ncpfuecrkpi"D{" Fgukip"hqt"cfxkeg."fgukip"cpf" kpuvcnncvkqp"/"ugg"vjg"cfxgtv"qp" vjku"rcig"hqt"oqtg"kphqtocvkqp0
good cause, and this exhibition will be the first opportunity for many to see Brendan’s work. The public is invited to view the works from March 31 to April 2 from 10am-5pm (tickets R30). But on March 30, the Gilberts host a lavish cheese and wine affair, featuring the local Packwood estate, in the garden from 5:30pm. Tickets cost R25, with all benefits going towards Plett Hospice. One lucky ticket-holder will win one of Robert’s sculptures, Mctqq" Rtkpkc, when the prize-
draw takes place on April 2. A bronze sculpture of a bird often seen visiting the rose garden, it is valued at R12’500 and forms part of the Easter exhibition.
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Book with Lady on 044 533 5178 or email aconyngham@ telkomsa.net, and visit www.ro bertleggat.co.za or www.pack wood.co.za for additional info.
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Read CXPRESS online @ www.cxpress.co.za
March 13 - 2013
Classifieds
On the Soapbox
March 13 - 2013
Letters to the Editor
Email: editor@cxpress.co.za - Fax: 044 533 0852 - PO Box 1449, Plett 6600
Okay to blast tunes from your car When is a radio not a radio? When it’s a car radio – or that is what I was told by a SANParks gate attendant at the Wilderness Lagoon resort recently. My husband and I were out for a walk and passed a car with all its doors open and a radio on full blast. I didn’t think much about it until I saw a notice on the gate, depicting a crossedout radio. I asked the gate attendant why
the radio was playing when the notice indicated that they were not allowed, and that is when she said: “That is not a radio, it’s a car radio.” So all of you music lovers out there, go for it! As long as it doesn’t look like the picture of a radio. But if, like me, you like peace and quiet, don’t bother complaining. After all, a car radio is not a radio. Lq{eg"Jqrmkp."Igqtig
Blow the trumpet southerly Christo Schwellnus recently discovered this juvenile Trumpetfish in the Keurbooms River. He writes: ‘The fish was positively identified by Dr Malcolm J Smale from the PE Museum and Bayworld Centre for Research and Education as Aulostomus chinensis (Smiths’ Sea Fishes 143.1). In their records, the most southerly locality for this specimen is East London, so Plett is the first new locality reported to them. And on February 17, we saw a much bigger Trumpetfish when diving in the river mouth at Lemongrass restaurant.’
Huidige perdvleis petalje inspireer poësie Marsja Hall-Green van Plettenbergbaai het ons laat lag met hierdie gediggie wat deesdae die kuberruim rondtes doen – die begaafde ‘digter’ word egter nêrens genoem nie Ienkie pienkie ponkie Suid Afrika eet nou donkie Hiekerie diekerie dok Ons maalvleis is nou bok Taragie taragoe Ons eet biltong kangeroe Kul jou hie kul jou daa Ons steaks is nou sebra Viskoekies in die Baai
CXPRESS
Bestaan meestal nou uit haai Daai hoender wat so dril Is dikwels krokodil Die salami aan die hak Is dalk ‘n Taiwannese brak En die sagte pienk polonie Dalk net ‘n Shetland ponie Maar dis als die moeite werd Die arme Britte kry net perd
Hendersons say thanks... To Dr Donald and Dr Beetge, who recently helped Steven recover from a serious bout of pneumonia. Dr Donald regularly came to check on Steven even when he was off-duty. To the dedicated sisters and nursing staff at the Plett and George Medi-Clinics who watched over Steven when we needed to sleep. To the wonderful physios who worked tirelessly on Steven, especially Tasha from Physiotherapy Plett. You have all helped him to breathe deeply again - a marvellous sight. To Heather at Savannalands Kennels, who looked after all our pets and gave them a home from home. To Reagan and Henry who kept Opihi Builders running you are both remarkable people. To Alison from Plett Carpet Cleaners who gave our living
areas a huge spring clean, making it dust and cat hair free - a big job, but you are always so willing to help. To the staff at Oakhill School who constantly called and sent messages of support to Steven, with special thanks to the headmaster, who drove all the way to Plett to visit him. To the churches and various prayer groups in Plett and George who offered up so many prayers that God couldn’t help but answer. To our and Steven’s special friends who looked out for us in George and Plett and who came to visit our very sick boy - you are all angels. And finally to all the friends who called. Thanks for the love and support you sent our way. We have been truly blessed. Rgvg."Ecvj{."Uctcj"cpf" Uvgxgp"/"Rngvv
Warning against home-made ‘bombs’ Cpvqp{" fg" Ygv" qh" Rngvv" rcuugf" qp" vjku" yctpkpi." quvgpukdn{" fkuvtkdwvgf" d{" c" eqnqpgn" Eqt" Upgn"qh"vjg"Rtgvqtkc"rqnkeg."cpf" ytqvg< “I hope that you publish this warning because I have picked up many plastic bottles on my walks in an effort to keep Plett tidy.” It reads, inter alia: Thieves are putting Drano (Jeyes Fluid in SA), tin foil, and a little water in plastic drink bottles and capping it up. They then leave it on lawns, in mail boxes, in gardens, on driveways, etc. just
waiting for you to pick it up to put it in the rubbish. But you’ll never make it! If the bottle is picked up and shaken even just a little, in about 30 seconds or less it builds up enough gas which then explodes with a force that could remove some of your extremities. The liquid that comes out is boiling hot as well. Don’t pick up any plastic bottles that may be lying in your yards or in the gutter, etc. as you might become a victim of this Drano bomb.
ISSUE 360
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CXPRESS
ISSUE 360
Discovery Plett Easter Games – March 29 to April 1
It’s all in the Games!
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RAIL running, surf-ski paddling, mountain biking, an open water swim and township run, a golf challenge and kids King of the Beach competition – these challenges combine to make this year’s Discovery Plett Easter Games an irresistible event for adventure-loving athletes of all ages. Since its inception in 2011, the event has seen significant growth in support and organisers Nature Sport Company foresees an even bigger turnout come March 29 – the first of four Easter Games days. “We are very excited about this year’s event,” says Nature Sport Company’s Daron Smit. “Being in our third year running we’ve had the opportunity to fine-tune our race routes and throw in a couple of new twists and turns to ensure that everyone gets what they want out of the event - and has a great time doing it.” A total of 11 events are spread
LOOKING FORWARD: Daron Smit says his Nature Sports Company organising team expects an even bigger and better Easter Games event this year Photo: Martin Hurwitz
out over the four Games days, starting off with the Pennypinchers Trail Run and Mountain Bike Nite Relay at Cairnbrogie Farm. The Discovery Team Golf Challenge at Plett
Sport & Adventure
March 13 - 2013
Country Club concludes the programme for day one. Plett’s Central Beach is the hub on day two, which kicks off with the Beacon Isle Mile Surf Swim, followed by the Pennypinchers Singles Surfski Challenge and Discovery MTB Series. The Pennypinchers Doubles Surf-ski Challenge rounds off the day’s events. Day three is all about the kids and gives future sports stars the opportunity to show off their sporting skills in the Discovery Easter Kids King of the Beach Challenge. The fourth and final day of the Easter weekend will see runners lining up for the high-energy Discovery Tamodi KwaNokuthula Township Run. But it’s not all about the thrill of the game, as proceeds from the various events will support local charities and community development programmes. “We take our social responsibility seriously and celebrate the fact that bringing an event of this magnitude to Plettenberg Bay ultimately goes towards the social upliftment and growth of the town,” says Smit, adding that the Discovery Plett Easter Games has something to offer athletes of all levels. Contact Lee Verschoor at info@naturesportco.com or on 072 630 8906 or 078 877 6618 for more information, and see the advert on page 5 for further details.
Pennypinchers adventurers take charge
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XCITING news for the ‘hood’s intrepid adventure racing team is that Pennypinchers and PPC Cement have come on board to sponsor three events during the upcoming Discovery Plett Easter Games. The Pennypinchers Surf Ski Challenge has been the cornerstone of Easter weekend sports fixtures in Plett for the past five years. When Nature Sports Company introduced the Plett Easter Games concept two years ago, additional events like trail and township runs, golf games and mountain bike races were added. This year’s Pennypinchers Cairnbrogie trail run on Good Friday morning boasts two longer routes and proceeds will benefit the Robberg Coastal Corridor. Great news for runners and spectators is that the Griekwa Vroue Unie will again be selling their delicious homemade treats at Cairnbrogie. The organising team this year decided to add some real adventure to the weekend, so gave the MTB relay race a good old twist... the route will be tackled at night. “Cairnbrogie Estate has a massive barn that serves as ideal start/finish area for a night time event, and with the everenthusiastic owner Andrew Hill right behind us, we set about planning routes for the trail run and brand new Nite Mountain Bike Relay,” explains James Stewart of the Pennypinchers AR Team. This race will tie in with two other MTB events over the
CHEERS TO TWO: The Pennypinchers Adventure Racing Team – from left are James Stewart, Garth Pienke, Jeff Wilcox and Jeanette Walder – celebrates an impressive second place finish in the gruelling Double Moon, raced over 250km of hot-as-hell Free State plains – read all about their Easter Games plans
weekend, Discovery sponsoring 20km and 40km races, as well as a unique downhill time trial from Plett town centre to Central Beach. With two events already on their plate, the Pennypinchers eventers were also approached to organise the surf ski event. “This race has been well supported by Pennypinchers over the years, and has attracted the world’s finest paddlers due to the unique course and great prize purse. This year will be no different, except that we would really like to see local paddlers
Tight Lines
back in the race,” says James. This will be facilitated by a lower entry fee, while two races will be packed into one day, allowing paddlers to do a singles race in the morning and doubles that same afternoon. “With the afternoon race, we hope to show off the bay at its best, and we invite all paddlers up to Plett Surf Lifesaving Club afterwards for sun-downers and a prize-giving.” Check out the pennypinchersarteam.blogspot.com and read the article alongside for additional Easter Games info.
Graeme Pollard
Hellooo TUNNY!
Plett Sports take 2013’s first business bowls crown The latest round of the FNB Business Bowls League was successfully concluded on February 26 at Plett Bowling Club. Perfect weather and fierce competition characterised the finals, which saw the Plett Sports team - from left below with FNB’s Jaco van Huysteen (in black) are Darien Deal, Deon Coetzer and Grant Butterworth - beating Plett Surf into second position. Third place went to Wittedrift Eagles and fourth to Rowan Golf & Turf. The club’s John Everson paid special tribute to the ongoing support this event received from FNB, main sponsors since 2002. He thanked session-prize sponsors Total Beacon Isle, Gary’s Motor Spares, Mugg & Bean, Cheap Transport and Glow Lighting, as well as Plett Bowling Club’s amazing team of helpers, adding that ‘it’s great to see how Tuesdays have developed into such wonderful family evenings, and it gives us as members great pleasure to host you all’.
FIRST IN 20 YEARS: Fisher-boys Gustav ‘Gussie’ and Marius ‘Aloe’ Schlechter, right, with some of the 6-10kg yellowfin tuna that they landed in Plett waters on Saturday March 2
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OMETHING had to happen... Well, crystal-clear and warm water over the past few weeks has resulted in the guys having a lot of fun with goodsized skipjack and katonkel. This prompted Marius and his son Gustav to head out on Hkuj/ gt in pursuit of angling action. To their great surprise, they found a shoal of yellowfin tuna off Blaauwkrans and managed to catch 10 fish, all weighing in at 6-10kg!
Well done guys, it’s the first tuna we have seen caught from a boat in Plett waters for approximately 20 years. Apart from the game fish, bottom fishing has been very good with red roman, silvers, pangas, santers and even some geelbek. So make the most of the warmwater fishing, as winter is not too far off. Cheers and tight lines. Ugg"vjg"Rngvv"Hkujkpi"Ejctvgtu" cfxgtv"dgnqy"hqt"oqtg"kphq0