Cx375

23 October 2013 #375

Photo: Sharyn Hodges - ShowMe Plett

Cancer survivors Robyn Hurwitz and Karen Amoils, right, give the thumbs up after jumping from a plane as part of Plett’s Pink Trees for Pauline cancer drive, which culminated on October 18.

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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Choose life!

Zoe Ashurst sent an anti-drug message when doing her first skydive on Saturday October 19, wearing a T-shirt with the words ‘No to drugs - yes to life’. The 11-year-old did a 33-second free-fall at 201km/h from 10 000 feet before landing on Central Beach. Now that’s what we call living out loud!

SAVE WITH CXPRESS! Crazy Coupon Cut-outs p6 Photo: Skydive Plett

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CXPRESS

ISSUE 375

News & Views

October 23 - 2013

Driving Miss Crazy

Jeeves

Anyone going to George next Thursday?

Over the next few editions, JEEVES (not his real name, or is it?) will share his adventures as Garden Route chauffeur extraordinaire - but let’s start at the beginning...

S

BUCKLE UP! Jeeves received a R200 Woollies voucher for his first job

UNDAY lunch with friends at Brenton, and Piet piped up: “Anyone going to George on Thursday? We need a ride to the airport.”

Silence.

“We’re going to Oz for three weeks to see our first grandson.

It will cost over a grand to leave the car at the airport, and the shuttle for the two of us there and back will be more than a Kulula ticket to Jozi!”

Ed - who travels a lot, and’s got lots of dough - said: “We always hire a car to get us there and back”.

A sip of wine later... “Tell you what,” I said. “I’ll take you there. I can go to a movie, shop around, have lunch.”

Piet’s eyes lit up. “Would you

George to benefit from nigh on R1-billion investment

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REMIER Helen Zille and members of the Western Cape Cabinet visited George Municipality for an outreach session to engage with local stakeholders and report back on the province’s progress on service delivery.

During the October 15 session, Western Cape minister of Local Government, Environmental Affairs & Development Planning Anton Bredell revealed that R955.4-million has been earmarked for projects in George from 2013 to 2015.

Bredell reported that the Western Cape has spent effectively 100% of its Municipal Infrastructure Grant (MIG) funding since 2009, and that the R455.3-million spent in the 2012/13 financial year has yielded 205 projects in areas like sanitation, roads and stormwater infrastructure, community halls, public transport, libraries and solid waste removal services.

The Western Cape’s leading performance was also highlighted in the Census 2011 report, which showed that households in the province had the best access to basic services.

Bredell said these high standards were achieved while the Western Cape’s population had grown simultaneously by almost 30% between censuses.

Premier Zille emphasised the importance of understanding the role of government in assessing its performance. She explained that this role had three aspects: defending people’s rights and freedom, extending opportunities for peo-

ple to improve their lives, and providing for those who could not reasonably be expected to do so for themselves.

“In particular, a government has to ensure that it gets job creation and education right,” she said, adding that government’s job was to create the context for investment, entrepreneurs and innovation by having no corruption and delivering services efficiently. “If the lights go out for hours at a time, people with capital and skills won’t want to live and invest there. Good governance is critical.”

Outlining the Western Cape Strategic Plan and Strategic Objectives, she noted that it was not enough merely to devise a plan. “The hardest thing is implementing your plan and we’ve restructured the government to align with the needs of our mandate.

“But everything we do is done in partnership, with different role-players having different responsibilities. That is why we say ‘Better Together’,” she concluded.

really?”

“Sure I will... but, in your car, OK?” On dropping them at the airport, Piet shook my hand with many thank you’s and handed me an envelope. I thought, ‘how do you get a bottle of wine into an envelope?’

Of course, I rejected whatever it was he was offering, but he insisted: “If you don’t want it, give it to someone else.”

After parking the car back home in his garage, I opened the envelope, and there was a Woollies gift voucher for R200!

‘How nice,’ I thought.

That got me thinking... and a few days later, I placed an ad in the local rag offering to drive

you in your car to the doctor, hospital, hairdresser, airport, road trips, etc.

Not for gain - you see, I’m retired and a bit bored with everyday events. I have no hobbies, gave up the bridge-club trip, did 25 years of bowls, and it took me 30 years to discover I could NOT play golf!

I do, however, enjoy cooking and am known in some circles as The Knackered Chef (ask Wendy from Plett).

Next time I’ll tell you about my first ‘job’, ending up flying to Mossel Bay for breakfast.

And, what about the Karoo sojourn with a grand dame in her black RR...?

Buckle up! """""""""""""""""/"Lggxgu

News & Views

October 23 - 2013

CXPRESS

ISSUE 375

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No closure, no questions answered for 2011 crash victims’ families John Harvey Garden Route Media

Coetsee said following the tragedy, Western Cape Transport MEC Robin Carlisle has closed down TJ’s and it “could not be in the interests of justice” to delay the case further.

Coetsee also questioned who would cover the legal costs of the postponement - the fourth this year - and that the request for the postponement had only been made on October 9, when all legal representatives knew the inquiry was set down for

DEATH ROAD: Memorial plaques and crosses are still found alongside the Kasatdrift River bridge in Rheenendal, where 14 children and a bus driver were killed in August 2011 - Photo: Ewald Stander

F

OR two long years, parents of the 14 school children who were killed when a bus plunged into the Kasatdrift River at Rheenendal have been waiting for answers.

Since January this year, they have packed the Knysna Magistrate’s Court where they have had to relive the agonising events of that fateful day in August 2011 through the testimonies of children’s classmates, and experts who believe that the African Express bus was not up to standard.

Closure is what they have sought, if only to give some kind of clarity to the question that haunts them each and every

day: why?

Yet this closure, at least until April next year, continues to escape them.

Parent Cornelius Davidson who lost his 17-year-old son Ashwell in the crash, said: “We have seen what those buses look like and we have heard from experts about the major issues the bus our children were travelling on had. The bus company owner has to explain to us why the bus was in such a state.”

But last week the inquiry into the crash was postponed for a fourth time due to the absence of the families’ counsel Norman Arendse, who was in India attempting to smooth over a

scheduling dispute with Indian cricket authorities in his capacity as Cricket South Africa’s lead independent director.

While the request for the postponement was made by Jerald Andrews, on behalf of the families, it meant that they would have to wait another six months before the inquiry resumed.

Dirk Coetsee, for African Express owner Pravin Singh and Eugene Labuschagne, the owner of TJ’s Testing Station - which issued the fated bus a roadworthy certificate only months prior to the crash - did not consent to the postponement as he said it “prejudiced” his clients.

October 16.

“Mr Singh and Mr Labuschagne do not consent to a postponement. Clearly there have been wasted costs in the event of a postponement, not only for my clients but for the state as well,” Coetsee said.

“An indulgence is being sought, but at the end of the day costs must be paid. Mr Arendse is representing a group of blank faces, to use the expression in literature. We have to ask who is seeking the postponement, and there should be clarity on who will cover these costs.”

Magistrate Derek Torlage

agreed with Coetsee that the question of costs would have to be revisited. He also said Arendse’s presence in India at the time of the inquiry would need to be discussed later.

“I agree with Mr Coetsee that there is a costs consideration, but we also have to look at what would impede on the [victims’] parents’ rights in this matter.

The matter is thus postponed and adjourned.”

Torlage apologised to Singh and Labuschagne and also the parents for the postponement, and thanked those who had travelled to court.

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ISSUE 375

News & Views

October 23 - 2013

Plettenberg Bay Residents & Ratepayers Association: New perspective, new direction

Your contribution to waste recycling can save Bitou millions

T

HE landfill site that Plettenberg Bay used for waste over the past 15-20 years has reached the end of its life and, for the past six months, mostly builder’s rubble and animal carcases (for which other arrangements are now being made) have been deposited there.

There are no suitable landfill sites locally, so all refuse is now trucked to PetroSA’s landfill site in Mossel Bay. As this site has limited capacity, Eden District is in the process of licensing a new site near Mossel Bay that will offer 50 years of life. Bitou has agreed with Eden

that its waste will go to the new dump once licensed.

In the meantime, says Plett Ratepayers Association’s Peter Gaylard, a temporary transfer station has been established on top of our landfill site, which will serve the town and surrounds until a permanent transfer station is completed on the N2 outside Plett. Construction starts early in 2014.

Waste will be collected from the transfer station and compacted before being trucked to Mossel Bay and plans include the provision of drop-off points for garden refuse, which will

subsequently be converted into compost at a central location.

Trucking waste to Mossel Bay is extremely expensive, costing some R150’000 per month for transport plus R60’000 per month for dumping charges. It is in everyone’s financial interests - residents and ratepayers alike - to keep to a minimum the volumes due for trucking by actively engaging in recycling.

Over the years, the recycling programme has shown that homes which separate recyclable waste from ‘normal’ garbage reduce the total mass of garbage destined for a landfill

site by 70-80%.

If every home and business in Plett were to make a point of setting aside recyclable waste for separate collection by the municipality, the cost of trucking and dumping in Mossel Bay could be reduced by about R160’000 per month.

This translates into annual savings for Bitou Municipality (and, therefore, to residents and ratepayers), of about R2-

million. Of course, the positive effect recycling has on the environment goes without saying.

For several years, recyclable waste was collected from homes and businesses but recent problems in finding a suitable licensed contractor to handle the collection and disposal of this waste have disrupted the programme.

New recycling tenders are being evaluated and a contractor

is expected to be appointed by the end of October. ß"Kh"{qw"tgpv"rtqrgtv{"kp"Rngvv." c" rqtvkqp" qh" {qwt" tgpvcn" iqgu" vqyctfu" tcvgu" rc{cdng" vq" Dkvqw" Owpkekrcnkv{." uq" kv" ku" kp" {qwt" kpvgtguvu" vq" dgeqog" c" ogodgt" cpf" uvtgpivjgp" vjg" Cuuqekc/ vkqp‚u" xqkeg0" G/ockn" tcvgurc{B xqfcockn0eq0|c" qt" rjqpg" 2:4" ;43"7548"hqt"oqtg"kphqtocvkqp" qp"ogodgtujkr0

Rubbish dumped at Piesang River source calls for action - and gets it!

Plett resident Rob Windsor copied CXPRESS on an email to Bitou’s powers that be, with many photos of illegal dumping attached - including the picture at left, taken on October 16. Rob wrote, inter alia: ‘I have been corresponding with the council since October 2010 regarding the constant pollution at the entrance to Jackalskraal. This is the start of the Piesang River, which flows out onto Central Beach!’ Quick action was taken by Bitou’s Randall Bower, who sent in a team of temporary workers, pictured at right, to clean the area and instructed the municipal Law Enforcement Unit to curb illegal dumping there. Randall reminded that the landfill site is open to locals who want to drop off domestic waste, with a gate-control officer on duty to point you in the right direction. Call 044 501 3269 with rubbish-related queries.

News & Views

October 23 - 2013

CXPRESS

ISSUE 375

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Police arrest suspects while their crime is being reported T

NOT ON OUR WATCH: Forensics experts of the Local Criminal Record Centre in George conducted preliminary investigations before the stolen car was returned to its owner in Plett

WO men aged 33 and 32 were arrested in George for possession of a stolen vehicle – and that while the car’s lawful owner was still busy reporting the matter to police in Plett, The Vehicle Identification Section (VIS) based in George received a call from Tracker SA at 7:20am on October 19 regarding a stolen car suspected to be roaming around George.

With this scant information at hand, the VIS-member on duty mobilised reinforcements from the Public Order Policing unit, K9 Outeniqua dog unit, and the George Cluster Anti-Drug project team, all of whom responded speedily with patrols in the suburbs where the car was last

Plettenberg Bay’s men in blue bring happiness to Wittedrift residents MAKING FRIENDS: Sergeant Stephen Jansen of Plettenberg Bay SAPS, right, chats to a Wittedrift resident as part of the drive to bring police officers and the community closer while distributing guidance booklets

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LETTENBERG Bay police commander colonel Nolan Michaels was recently joined by several SAPS members and volunteers to distribute 700 Afrikaans Yc{" vq" Jcrrk/ pguu booklets to 500 families in Wittedrift.

This drive went a long way to bring together the police and local community in an inspirational gesture of caring.

Says William Ashurst, one of the initiators of Plett’s Way to

Happiness Foundation: “One policeman told me that whenever he drove through this township he felt sad, and that the October 14 event changed that feeling for the first time.

“He said that handing out the booklets gave him a tool to do something constructive for this community - and that felt good.

The police members and volunteers were very cheerful and the community greeted them with great enthusiasm.”

Colonel Michaels ended the day’s proceedings by saying it was a privilege to serve the Wittedrift community in this way, and acknowledged the Way to Happiness Foundation for availing the booklets for this purpose.

“The issue of course is the dire need for knowledge. However, I stress that it is up to the community to make good choices after reading the book and understanding its principles.

“The Foundation is giving us as police members the opportunity to experience first-hand the challenges people face. Besides merely handing out the books, we hear their concerns regarding crime.

“So I feel very fortunate to say that, during this process, we also received a lot of information that is valuable to us in terms of planning the way forward.

I thank everyone involved for making this possible.”

“Along with the Way to Happiness team, we will visit every suburb in Bitou, one Sunday at a time.”

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tracked via satellite.

Less than an hour later, SAPS members spotted the blue Audi A4 station wagon parked near a house in Vuyani Ncamazana Street in Lawaaikamp. Observation was first conducted from a distance, but when the stolen car started moving it was overtaken and the road blocked.

Its two occupants were ordered to vacate with their hand in the air. They were arrested on the spot and later taken to Conville SAPS where they were processed and detained.

Further investigation indicated that the Audi was stolen in Plett earlier that morning after

the suspects had broken into a house and taken the car keys before speeding off to George.

Both suspects may be linked to other thefts and one of them is believed to be wanted for car thefts committed in Bitou and surrounding towns. The possibility that they may be linked to car theft syndicates is being investigated.

The car was returned and handed to its owner after preliminary investigations by forensics experts of the Local Criminal Record Centre was concluded.

Cluster commander of George major general Patekile com-

mended the members involved in bringing these suspects to book, saying that “they have terrorised our community for too long”.

He reiterated that visible policing in the cluster would alleviate the fear of falling victim to crime. “We want law-abiding citizens to live their lives free of fear or threat of attack.”

The suspects appeared in the George Magistrates court on Monday on a charge of possession of stolen goods. They will also appear on charges of housebreaking and theft in the Knysna Magistrates Court later this week.

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ISSUE 375

October 23 - 2013

Coupons

News & Views

October 23 - 2013

CXPRESS

Winning Bitou concern celebrates its first anniversary

Words & photo: Timothy Twidle

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LETT’S Win-Win Swop Shop, which distributes awards in return for the collection of recyclable material,

celebrated its first year of existence on October 17.

The shop provides for residents of the communities of

WINNERS ONE AND ALL: Stalwarts of the Win-Win Swop Shop, who bring in recyclable material every week, are from left Nosimele Nzengane (holding child), Boniswa Jack, Monica Mbhexeshi, Bulelwa Sheyi, Sinesipho Mandoyi, Thulani Rali, Nonyameko Qgkeshe and Phindile Ngcebeshe - in front, holding an award, is Anele Nonkonyana

Pinetree, Qolweni and Bossiesgif in Bitou, to bring in quantities of recyclable material separated into plastic, paper, cardboard, glass and tin cans, for which points are awarded according to the weight and type of material.

Accumulated points can then be used in a swop for goods such as clothes, toys, games, sports equipment, books, school requisites, non-perishable foodstuffs, toiletries, cleaning materials and small luxury items, in a shop at the site of weigh scale.

The participants win in that they are able to obtain essentials for their families and the neighbourhood, and the community win since potential litter and waste is cleared up.

The shop operates every Thursday from 2pm at a site in Plett Industria. On average one ton of material is brought

Thumbs up for The Crags Eco-Preschool’s education and natural environearth-friendly initiatives ments is becoming more and

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HE Crags Eco-Preschool continues to maintain a determined focus on the integration of environmental education and the importance of the natural world within its daily programme.

The stimulating environment and alternative educational approach has brought hands-on environmental education into the preschool experience and so keeps the kids in touch and in tune with nature through a variety of practical activities throughout the year.

The school’s Green Ethos results in themes, outings and activities focussing on current ecological issues, and learners have been involved in many exciting projects, highlighting their acute awareness of the importance of saving our most precious and beautiful planet.

Children have been actively involved in a daily waste recycle programme where cardboard and plastic are recycled for use in the art and craft corner, paper is recycled and used to make grey cards on which to draw and paint, and all organic waste

is turned into compost with the help of probiotics.

This compost in turn feeds the vegetable garden, which is watered by the children using water collected in the rain tank.

Wherever possible, greens and other vegetables harvested are added to the snack table and any surplus is sold to generate funds to buy more seeds.

The children are in charge of cleaning the chicken coop and collecting the eggs, which are either eaten during snack time, used in baking activities, or sold to generate funds to buy more chicken feed - or chickens, depending on which predators are around!

They are also involved in a Honey Bee Project, where the children assist in tapping fynbos honey into their own recycled jars which they sell to generate income for the school.

But many still ask the question: “Why an eco-preschool?”

In our progressively more built-up world where nature deprivation gains increased attention, giving young children improved access to environmental OUT THERE: The eco-curriculum of these youngsters means that they tend their own veg garden and chickens, while recycling and using rainwater to stay in tune with nature

more important.

Early childhood education plays a vital role in developing a child’s identity in a manner that enables them to connect with and contribute to their environment. Children thrive in programmes that incorporate the diverse and open-ended environment of the outdoors.

Studies show that children involved in outdoor education programmes have better concentration, improved artistic and cognitive abilities, are less aggressive, have better gross motor skills and motor planning, and generally have an improved emotional wellbeing.

With the majority of daily activities taking place outdoors, children at The Crags EcoPreschool are most certainly benefitting from their eco-curriculum. ß" Vjg" uejqqn" jquvu" cp" Qrgp" Fc{" qp" Qevqdgt" 470" Cnn" rtq/ urgevkxg"ngctpgtu"cpf"kpvgtguvgf" rctgpvu"ctg"kpxkvgf"vq"lqkp"kp"vjg" hwp" cv" vjg" Geq/Uejqqn" vjku" Htk/ fc{"/"ugg"vjg"cfxgtv"qp"vjku"rcig" hqt"cffkvkqpcn"kphqtocvkqp0

in each week, although on one Thursday earlier this year two tons of material were weighed in. The scheme has received generous support from individuals, organisations and businesses in Plett.

“We are saving money for Bitou Municipality by removing recyclable waste. The Municipality is now assisting us with money for rewards and stipends for volunteers, on condition that we seek to establish swop shops in other communities of Bitou.

In order for the scheme to work people are required to run it and manage it,” said Win-Win team member Jean Sparg.

For more information, please contact Jean on 044 533 2625 or on 072 195 7722.

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Investor Focus

ISSUE 375

Malcolm Stewart – Portfolio Manager at Sanlam Private Investments Knysna

Where is the value?

M

ARKETS have had the benefit of free cash for several years now. This massive wave of free money has increased the prices of tradable assets throughout the global investment universe.

The US Fed has signalled that it will start gradually reducing these “steroids” in due course, probably by year-end. They have also indicated that interest rates will remain at zero until at least 2015.

Where we go from here will depend on current values and specific economic and political events. In Europe, we have seen almost two years of highly publicised economic political interference. The Euro, however,

survived and Euroland continues to exist.

The core economies of Euroland, namely Germany and France, are showing signs of sustainable growth, while the so-called peripheries continue to stumble along. But there are positive signs that the large peripheries are beginning to recover - Italy, Portugal and Ireland look to be on the mend, with Spain still struggling.

The major equity indices that represent Euroland markets remain the ones offering the most value. PE ratios just under 12 are still well below their longterm average of ±16. Hopefully, the political meddling has now begun to recede and investment

decisions can again be based on economic fundamentals.

In the USA, we have an extremely well-publicised degree of political meddling. But, as in the Euroland soap opera, one surely accepts that these political geniuses will not let the mighty USA go down the tubes.

Their markets, however, are not at bargain levels. PE ratios of ±18 are at or near their longterm levels. Economic growth with increasing sales and investment are needed to further grow these markets - which appear to ignore the political rhetoric, as has the majority of serious investors.

The Chinese market is beginning to attract attention. There is a great debate about the extent to which China’s economic growth will slow down. This

Engel & Völkers relaunches in Knysna and Plett

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NGEL & Völkers held a cocktail party on Thursday October 10 to celebrate the brand’s relaunch in Knysna and MUCH TO CELEBRATE: Head of the local branch Dawn Schmoor, centre, was proud to welcome Engel & Völkers SA’s Riaan and Cathy van Deventer to the recent launch function

Business

October 23 - 2013

Plettenberg Bay. Among the honoured guests were Riaan van Deventer - director and head of Real Estate

for Engel & Völkers South Africa - and his wife Cathy, who serves as relationship manager for E&V SA. Colleagues, associates, clients and friends in attendance included Peter Martin and Jacques de Villiers from Logan & Martin Attorneys; Andy Cox and Cindy Allan from Mosdell, Pama & Cox Attorneys; well-known Plett attorney John Wessels, and Marianne Grobler from Plett Business Chamber.

Along with the staff of Engel & Völkers, everyone joined in to celebrate the relaunch at the agency’s lovely new premises on the corner of Church and Main Streets in Plett CBD. Visit www.engelvoelkers.com /za to find out more.

debate could well be exaggerated as it appears to centre on a low growth rate of 7% or slightly lower, and a higher growth rate over 7.5%.

Chinese politicians have total control. They do not have public debates so we are often (but not always) blind as to any political direction.

Their markets are always interesting, though. Back in 1982, US stocks traded at PE ratios of 7 and at price to book of only 1. (Their assets equalled their share price.) Currently, the Chinese H-shares traded in Hong Kong have a PE ratio of 7, and their price to book is at 1.2.

The year 1982 marked the be-

ginning of a nearly two-decade bull market in US stocks. Is history about to repeat itself?

At home, we have a very mixed picture. Industrials are judged to be expensive (many of these are non-South African companies, i.e. Naspers, South African Breweries, Richemont, etc.). Mining shares are depressed (those strikes again!), while financials look to be slightly under-valued.

But in South Africa we experience a serious bout of election fever. The 2014 elections could well turn out to be very different from the norm.

The Malema factor will create extraordinary fodder for the na-

tional press; there are struggles within Cosatu and a new radical trade union; and the Agang party could certainly result in a different political landscape.

Offshore investors may not overlook this political deluge and decide to reduce their exposure to SA Inc...

Rushing offshore into Euroland should, however, be carefully thought through as the Rand will certainly continue on its totally unpredictable course.

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Pam Golding agents just love the joy of giving

T

HE month of October celebrates cancer survivors as well as commemorating those dear ones to whom we have bid farewell.

Plettenberg Bay PGP agent Roni Engelbrecht joined many other enthusiasts in support of the Pink Trees for Pauline drive, which proclaims life during and after cancer. This unique and first-of-a-kind fundraising for SA has taken Plett by storm, where the community has been wrapping hundreds of trees, outdoor features and landmarks in pink.

Next year PGP Plett has challenged PGP Knysna to equal or better these efforts. Says Roni: “This is a wonderful contribution to all those in our community suffering from cancer.”

In Knysna, PGP supported Hospice by organising the Maison Fair held at the Catholic Church in town, which raised in excess of R60’000. Then, a few weeks later, the caring estate agents sponsored programmes

for the annual Hospice ballet evening.

On October 21, the Pam Golding Properties Knysna Literary Festival Liaison, held at Conrad Pezula and featuring Clem Sunter, supported the ePap Children’s Feeding Scheme and Tsiba Campus in Karatara.

Clem spoke about his book Hqz" Vtknqi{, in which he compares many of the world’s leaders in politics, business and sport who have succeeded by adopting the mental processes typical of the ingenuity of one of nature’s most resourceful animals - the fox!

Ugg" vjg" cfxgtv" qp" rcig" ;" hqt" nkuvkpiu"cpf"eqpvcev"fgvcknu0" GIVING BACK: PGP Plett agents - from left are Paddy Dalzell, Roni Engelbrecht, Kim Williamson at back, Plett and Knysna franchisee and owner Ling Dobson, and Jacqui Kvalsvig - threw their weight behind the Pink Trees for Pauline drive with gusto

Promotion

October 23 - 2013

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ISSUE 375

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ISSUE 375

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October 23 - 2013

A drunken man’s words are a sober man’s thoughts.

A

woman brought a very limp duck into a veterinary surgery. As she laid her pet on the table, the vet pulled out his stethoscope and listened to the bird’s chest.

After a moment or two, the vet shook his head and sadly said: “I’m sorry. Your duck, Cuddles, has passed away.”

The distressed woman wailed: “Are you sure?”

“Yes, I am sure. Your duck is dead,” replied the vet.

“How can you be so sure?” she protested. “I mean, you haven’t done any testing on him or anything. He might just be in a coma or something.”

The vet rolled his eyes, turned around and left the room. He returned a few minutes later with a black Labrador Retriever.

As the duck’s owner looked on in amazement, the dog stood on his hind legs, put his front

The dead duck paws on the examination table and sniffed the duck from top to bottom.

He then looked up at the vet with sad eyes and shook his head. The vet patted the dog on the head and took it out of the room.

A few minutes later the vet returned with a cat. The cat jumped on the table and also

… ism Socialism - You have two cows.

You give one to your neighbour.

Communism - You have two cows. The State takes both and gives you some milk.

Fascism - You have two cows.

The State takes both and sells you some milk.

Bureaucratism - You have two cows. The State takes both, shoots one, milks the other and then throws the milk away.

Traditional capitalism - You have two cows. You sell one and buy a bull. Your herd multiplies, and the economy grows.

You sell them and retire on the income.

Venture capitalism - You have two cows. You sell three of them to your publicly listed company, using letters of credit opened by your brother-in-law at the bank, and then execute a debt/equity swap with an associated general offer so that you get all four cows back, with a tax exemption for five cows.

The milk rights of the six cows are transferred via an intermediary to a Cayman Island company secretly owned by the majority shareholder, who sells the rights to all seven cows back to your listed company. The annual report says the company owns eight cows, with an option on one more.

An American corporation You have two cows. You sell one, and force the other to produce the milk of four cows.

Later, you hire a consultant to analyse why the cow has died.

A French corporation - You have two cows. You go on strike, organise a riot and block the roads because you want three cows.

An Italian corporation - You

have two cows, but you don’t know where they are. You decide to have lunch.

A Swiss corporation - You have 5’000 cows. None of them belong to you. You charge the owners for storing them.

A Chinese corporation - You have two cows. You have 300 people milking them. You claim that you have full employment and high bovine productivity.

You arrest the newsman who reported the real situation.

An Indian corporation - You have two cows. You worship them.

A British corporation - You have two cows. Both are mad.

An Iraqi corporation - Everyone thinks you have lots of cows. You tell them that you have none. Nobody believes you, so they bomb you and invade your country. You still have no cows, but at least you are now a democracy.

An Australian corporation You have two cows. Business seems pretty good. You close the office and go for a few beers to celebrate.

A New Zealand corporation You have two cows. The one on the left looks very attractive.

A Greek corporation - You have two cows borrowed from French and German banks. You eat both of them. The banks call to collect their milk, but you cannot deliver so you call the IMF. The IMF loans you two cows. You eat both of them.

The banks and the IMF call to collect their cows/milk. You are out getting a haircut.

An Irish corporation - You have two cows. One of them is a horse.

We had a power outage last week and my computer, television, and games console shut down immediately.

It was raining - I couldn’t golf, so I talked to my wife for a few hours.

She seems like a very nice person!

delicately sniffed the bird from head to foot.

The cat sat back on its haunches, shook its head, meowed softly and strolled out of the room.

The vet looked at the woman and said: “I’m sorry, but as I said, this is most definitely, 100% certifiably, a dead duck.”

He turned to his computer ter-

minal, hit a few keys and produced a bill, which he handed to the woman.

The duck’s owner, still in shock, took the bill.

“R1’500,” she cried, “R1’500 just to tell me my duck is dead!”

The vet shrugged: “I’m sorry.

If you had just taken my word for it, the bill would have been R200, but with the Lab Report and the Cat Scan, it’s now R1’500.”

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Social Scene

October 23 - 2013 SABRINA LOVES, THE LION ROARS: Bev Lowrie, left, was one of the many local and visiting golfers who enjoyed the Sabrina Love Lion Roars Golf Day at Plett Country Club recently. Open to a field of 140 golfers, the event saw players from near and far arrive to compete while raising much-needed funds for Bitou’s special needs kids. As is the tradition, the golf of the day was played in a generous and competitive spirit, making it one of the more popular local events for golfers and their families. All money raised was donated to the Sabrina Love Foundation and the team says they were once again overwhelmed by the support, love and generosity of everyone involved. Apart from being grateful to the long list of sponsors and individuals who ensured the event’s success, they say an extra special word of thanks to Lion Roars (www.lionroars. com) for the continued support. Pictured at right are Sabrina kids and carers, at back from left, Bongi, Sintu and Amanda, with Percy, Daron, and Shani in front.

Photo: Eon Photography

TIME HONOURED: The inaugural Sanlam Knysna Awards function took place at Simola Hotel on October 17. Lifetime Achievement Award winner Margaret Parkes is flanked here by former Knysna mayor Eleanore Bouw and event organiser Pieter Cloete. ‘We strongly believe that enterprises, entrepreneurs and individuals who advance our town’s quest for innovation, quality and productivity should be recognised,’ said Pieter, adding that the event was an astounding success made possible by sponsors Sanlam, Simola, Knysna Municipality and Tourism, Look4it Media, Knysna FM, GM&Ahrens, and Eon Photography. Visit www.knysnaawards.co.za to find out more.

People, places & events

Photo: Glenn Murray Photography

TREASURE FOUND: Greenwood Independent School kids pulled out all the stops when performing ‘Redbeard’s Treasure’ at The White House in Plett on October 16 & 17. Visit www.greenwoodindependentschool.co.za for more information.

PLETT’S BEST TALENT ABOUT TO BE NAMED: Excitement is running high as Tshisa Talent heads towards its finals held on November 9 at The Whitehouse Theatre in Plettenberg Bay. Diarise the date and email info@ lunchbox.org.za to book your place. In the pic, members of the Eyethu Gumboot Dance Group show their moves.

Photo: Vanessa - Avo Photography

CXPRESS

ISSUE 375

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CXPRESS

ISSUE 375

Entertainment

October 23 - 2013

Knysna’s famous Leisure Isle Festival promises more fun than ever before

I

T’S Leisure Isle Festival time in Knysna this weekend, and this year organisers aim to raise more than R120’000 for five local charities - Hospice, ePap Children’s Feeding Scheme, Knysna Animal Welfare Society (KAWS), Steenbok Nature Reserve, and Loeriehof Old Age Home.

Readers are invited to attend the festival on beautiful Leisure Isle from 9am on Saturday October 26 and from 10am on Sunday the 27th - everyone will find something to interest them among the 120 stalls, which are sure to offer a great opportunity for Christmas shopping.

A variety of craft stalls offer jewellery, pottery, paintings, toys, embroidered and knitted clothes, Christmas decorations, wood and metal work, and much more. But this is more than just a craft fair, as there is a huge and well-organised second-hand book stall, a sale of indigenous and other plants, as well as herbs and cut flowers.

New exhibitors include the inimitable purveyors of handcrafted braais, wood-turned fountain pens, and wheat-grass products, while electronic gadgets on display and sale are sure to attract DIY fans of all gender persuasions.

Apart from the stalls, lots of activities will lure young and old to bend their limbs and rattle their bones - barrel-train rides and a bouncing castle for

the young, a 4km walk around the Island, a 2km trek for people in wheelchairs with volunteers available to push, and of course the ever-popular dog walk.

These all take place on Saturday, with the walk starting at 9am, the wheelchair event at 9:30am, and the dog walk registration at 12:15pm. The walk itself sets off from the main entrance to Steenbok Park at 1pm.

A photographer will be on hand to take photos of you and your hound and these prints will be on sale for you to take home. If you don’t have a dog but want to take part, then bring along your favourite teddy bear or fluffy toy. There are lots of prizes for a wide range of dog and owner categories.

Hungry festivalgoers are spoilt for choice with hot and cold foods to everyone’s taste.

The thirsty can whet their whistles at the beer tent or the Hospice tea garden. There are also lots of stalls where you can buy scrumptious eats and fresh produce to take away.

Leisure Isle Festival is a great day out for all the family and contributes much needed funds to local charities. Visit www.

LeisureIsleFestival.co.za and www.facebook.com/leisureislefestival for more details.

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SPOILT FOR CHOICE: A plethora of stalls and vendors and food and activities will ensure that island festinos have fun in Knysna this weekend

Notice Board • NMMU George Campus is hosting Green Week until Qevqdgt" 47, its programme packed with entertaining activities, interesting displays and educational presentations that highlight the strategies and technologies used to embrace sustainability and conservation.

Various fun challenges with recycled materials and a recycled materials fashion show have been incorporated into the programme, while an alien clearance programme will be executed by students on and around the campus. A live broadcast by Eden FM takes place on Friday from 9am to noon, featuring student discussions on various projects.

• The seventh Thinking Beyond Borders student team to visit Bitou for an extended learning experience in community health management issues, in conjunction with Hospice Plett, invites you to attend the feedback session on their experiences on Friday Qevqdgt"47

from 2-4pm at St Peter’s Anglican Church in Church Street, Plett. Please RSVP to Allison Irby at allison@thinkingbeyond borders.org or on 076 522 6811.

• The first Bitou 10 Performing Arts Showcase will be held on Qevqdgt"48 at Plett Primary, and tickets are now available at participating schools. Call 044 533 6466 or email ceo@bitou10foundation.co.za for info.

• FAMSA is having their annual Spring Tea on Qevqdgt"48 at Ouland Royale on the Airport Road. Call Melani van der Westhuizen on 044 533 0515 for information.

• Knysna Methodist Church celebrates its 120-year anniversary with a Flower & Harvest Festival on Pqxgodgt" 4 from 9am to 1pm at the church in Montague Street, showcasing floral art from local artists plus a display of produce and viewing of the stunning stainedglass windows made by members of the congregation. There will be tea and cake available

at a nominal cost served in the garden. On Tuesday Pqxgodgt" 7 there will be a pancake-withscrummy-fillings sale in the church hall and on Saturday the ;vj it’s time for the annual Christmas market from 8am to 1pm with crafts, food, a White Elephant stall and much more.

• There will be a Sustainability Tent at the Plett for Peace Festival on Central Beach next month and anyone who would like to share their skills or expertise on the subject is welcome to set up a display.

Whether your passion is beekeeping, worm-farming, solar power, compost, up-cycled art, sustainable building, a community exchange system or any other facet of sustainable living, share it with the Bitou community on Pqxgodgt"5. Call Elize on 072 711 0910 for info.

• Formosa Garden Club hosts its Open Gardens Day at Strombolis Garden Village and Bosky Dell on Sunday Pqxgodgt" 5 from 10am to 4pm at both ven-

ues. Entrance to Strombolis is R30 per head, which includes cream tea and other attractions like an exhibition of local art and jewellery, a cake sale, plant stall, organic vegetables and honey. Strombolis is found opposite the entrance to Knysna Elephant Park and the entrance to Bosky Dell Rose Garden is opposite The Heath.

• Bitou Amateur Theatrical Society (BATS) presents the Peter Gordon play Ugeqpfct{" Ecwug" qh" Fgcvj in Plett next month, with evening performances from Pqxgodgt" 34/38 and 3;/45 and matinee performances on the 17th and the 23rd. Following on from the success of Owtfgtgf" vq" Fgcvj, BATS will stage this second of the Inspector Pratt-trilogy at St Peter’s Church Hall at 7:30pm, and 2pm (matinees). Buy tickets at Barney’s at The Market Square (next to Mugg & Bean) or phone 044 533 3219 for information. All proceeds will be donated to PAWS.

Home & Health

October 23 - 2013

CXPRESS

Marvellous gardens, cake and raffle to benefit Bitou’s pets

M

ORE than 300 visitors from all over the Garden Route enjoyed the inaugural Plett Open Gardens event last year, and in the process raised R32’000 towards primary health care for neglected and abused Bitou animals.

This year Plett Animal Welfare Services (PAWS), again supported by Formosa Garden Club, is proud to present four completely different but equally inspiring gardens on Saturday November 2 from 10am to 4pm. An entry fee of only R60 for all four gardens can be paid at any one of the gardens during the day.

Xcp"Tqq{gp"ictfgp"/"4"Ewrkf" Uvtggv."Rqqtvlkgu" This wild garden, over two stands, was developed to fo-

cus on the natural environment and different habitats for birds.

Shaded pathways allow one to explore hidden areas and informal planting. Basil and Mariétta are planning to register their garden as part of the My Bird Patch movement. (Cake sale at this garden.)

Cnngp"ictfgp"/"Vjg"Vkfgu." gpvgt"vjtqwij"Iqqug"Xcnng{" ugewtkv{"icvgu This delightful garden, designed by award-winning landscaper Graham von Hoesslin, features quite structured yet informally planted beds, surrounding a house with interesting architectural features. Set in a private nature reserve, it has the added interest of a privately-owned soccer field bordering the formal garden.

Qrrgpjgkogt"ictfgp"/"76"Itk|" Pg|"ept"Jqqf"Rqkpv This garden has evolved quite naturally over the years - from a smaller area surrounding the house, it now covers nearly three stands. Jetty initially envisaged an indigenous garden but found this approach limiting in scope and opted for plants that satisfied her artistic talents, reflecting shapes and colours.

(Refreshments available.)

OeMgp|kg"ictfgp"/" Dtcemgptkfig"Guvcvg."gpvgt" vjtqwij"ockp"icvg"kp"Rkgucpi" Xcnng{"Tqcf This inventive indigenous garden, also designed by GvH Landscapes, consists of two main areas that show how colourful and interesting strictly indigenous planting can be.

WIN A WATERCOLOUR! Raffle tickets for an original watercolour painting by David Hall-Green - like this pretty painting of Shilo, right, but according to a subject of the winner’s choice - will be on sale at all the gardens; the picture at left shows the colourful Dippenaar garden that participated in last year’s event

Keep disabled toddlers dry and happy nappies, Nappy Run aims to with the Nappy Run 2013 ofprovide the most important in-

I

N South Africa, almost double the number of children with disabilities, compared to their typical peers, live at or below the national poverty line.

Often, these kids receive day care from community-based and volunteer-driven centres with limited resources, so nappies are luxury items most often not provided.

The observation of children at these centres not wearing nappies, and sadly being ‘wet’, is a far too common occurrence.

From this daily challenge of incontinence and a lack of diapers to the long-term effects of negative stereotypes and stigmatisation, children with disabilities and special needs deserve a comfortable life like every child, and they should be treated with dignity.

The Nappy Run campaign was created in 2011 to make a strong and positive impact on

the lives of thousands of children with disabilities, providing awareness to their basic needs as well as overall advancement of the dignity, care, development and social inclusion of these children.

In its debut year, it achieved a collection of over 100’000 nappies. In 2012, this target was doubled. Nappy Run 2013 is a month-long national awareness and nappy-donation drive that culminates at Joburg Zoo on November 3, the day after National Children’s Day on Saturday the 2nd.

The two-pronged purpose of the Nappy Run campaign is firstly to create awareness for our country’s most marginalised and vulnerable group of people by educating the public on the circumstances and rights of children with disabilities.

Secondly, through public appeals for donations of packs

continence management product for children with disabilities: diapers - or nappies as they are more commonly known.

Nappy Run is a joint project between National Council for Persons with Physical Disabilities in SA (NCPPDSA) and the National Association for Persons with Cerebral Palsy (NAPCP).

You can contribute at nappy collection points in Knysna (Die Werkswinkel c/o Wing & Fontein Streets - knysnaapd@ telkomsa.net or 044 385 0126), at George APD (Olympic Lane Pacaltsdorp - 044 878 0063) or at Plett’s Sterreweg Centre for Children with Disabilities (2195 Keurboom Road, New Horizons - 044 533 2639).

Go to www.nappyrun.org.za or www.facebook.com/Nappy run.sa or follow on Twitter @ NappyRun to find out more about the campaign.

Within quite controlled areas, one finds a wonderfully exuberant display, showing off our wonderful local flora. ß"Kp"cffkvkqp"vq"vjg"hqwt"Rngv/ vgpdgti" Dc{" ictfgpu." vjg" ygnn/ mpqyp"Dqum{"Fgnn"Tqug"Ictfgp" yknn"ygneqog"xkukvqtu"vq"vjg"hktuv" fc{"qh"kvu"qrgp"ugcuqp"cpf"yknn" jquv" c" vgc" ictfgp" kp" kvu" nqxgn{" ictfgp" rcxknkqp" /" gpvgt" qp" vjg" P4" qrrqukvg" Vjg" Jgcvj0" RCYU" yknn" cnuq" jqnf" c" rncpv" ucng" cv" vjku"ictfgp0" Ecnn" Octulc" Jcnn/Itggp" qp" 266"755"679:"qt"295"867";698" hqt"cffkvkqpcn"kphqtocvkqp0

ISSUE 375

13

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CXPRESS

ISSUE 375

October 23 - 2013

Classifieds

On the Soapbox

October 23 - 2013

Letters to the Editor

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

Pure neglect or secret agenda?

What is going on at Mellville’s Corner shopping centre in Plett, and has anyone noticed the deterioration of this once-vibrant complex?

I have spoken to some of the current tenants who seem disillusioned, claiming that their businesses are suffering because of absent and uncaring landlords. “We have no foot to stand on, as the building belongs to Cape Town people who own many other buildings,” seems to be the general consensus.

I spoke to the centre manager in January, suggesting that the roof colour be changed from blue to rustic brown or any colour but blue, since blue is reminiscent of water and water on top of a building drains its wealth.

This claim was deemed laughable and clearly nothing was done. I was told that “it looks Mediterranean and suits the place”. Have you seen blueroofed homes or buildings in the Med? This roof needs to change and fast, especially as we are surrounded by water in our beautiful bay. Once the roof turned blue, the restaurant on the bridge closed, as did Miguel’s.

Many businesses have come

CXPRESS

and gone, blamed for not paying rent and told to leave.

The money will continue draining unless you change the colour of the roof. Management, however, refuses to do anything about this.

I spoke to a lady at the municipality but here, too, shoulders were shrugged as “it belongs to someone else”.

So the deterioration continues, even though this complex is very much part of our town!

The walls are cracking, name boards ripped off, windows smashed and shade-cloth ripped but nothing is done about it.

More and more people prefer Market Square for their shopping, so Main Street shops suffer even more, albeit obliged to pay rent.

Please consider my suggestion, as I speak for everyone trying to make a living in Plett.

Or is there perhaps another agenda and, if so, could the local public please be informed?

This is the hub of Plett’s main street and many businesses around the complex are negatively affected.

The few tenants left in Mellville’s Corner have lost a lot of business through the years because of this neglect. I appeal

to anyone in authoritative positions to take charge of this situation before the season.

Or are they waiting, as before, to place fly-by-night businesses into the empty shops only during season, allowing this deterioration to continue throughout the year?

If so, will it not be detrimental to those shop owners who pay rent on a monthly basis, year after year?

Dwukpguu"Dnwgu."Rngvv Rwdnke"Kpxguvogpv"Eqtrqtcvkqp" *RKE+"eqoowpkecvkqpu" ocpcigt"Pqo|coq"Rgvlg" rtqxkfgf"vjku"tgurqpug< I refer to the letter of complaint about Mellville’s Corner shopping centre and would like to apologise for our delayed response. PIC has noted the issues raised with great concern.

Let me from the outset state that PIC values its clients and would do everything in its power to ensure success and stability in all its centres.

We are passionate about economic stability and economic development of small businesses in particular, because they are the engine of the economy.

Neglecting such enterprises will not be in PIC’s favour be-

cause this would fly in the face of enterprise development. It is for that reason that we note with concern the issues raised in the letter.

To that end, PIC has initiated a maintenance project to address all service and aesthetic features of the property in the near future in an effort to deal with all the problems experienced by our tenants.

PIC will always strive to create an environment conducive to trade for all its clients across the board, hence we support businesses in all our properties based in all areas in the country.

The PIC is a reputable company that will not risk its reputation by compromising business ethics and fairness to disadvantage current tenants. Therefore, the issue of placing fly-by-night businesses into empty shops does not even arise.

We will not compromise our brand and reputation for the sake of making a quick buck.

We appeal to all current tenants to not be threatened by such rumours and assure them that we are doing all in our power to improve the situation at Mellville’s Corner, because we want the centre and all tenants to succeed.

We will also give our tenants updates about developments at the centre.

People, not dogs, the problem on beaches I write in response to the article entitled ‘Whose beach is it anyway?’ by Dr Mark Brown in CXPRESS of September 25 (visit www.cxpress.co.za and click on the Environment page of issue 373).

The problem is not dogs on beaches, but people.

In his successful 1992 presidential campaign, Bill Clinton ran on the slogan ‘It’s the economy, stupid’ - making obvious what many people knew to be true: that the US economy was in trouble and the real issue of the campaign.

The same applies to dogs on our beaches. Dogs controlled (with or without leashes) on beaches are not the problem; it is the dog owners that are not skilled in handling their animals. Dogs are only there because people take them there.

So: ‘It’s the people, Mark.’

But it is not only dogs that terrorise our birds. I have picked up many dead birds twisted in fishing lines in Keurbooms La-

old and, incidentally, an utterly separate one. It is a nuisance to beach users, especially on swimming beaches over holidays, but does not affect the birds. It would help if there were more bins around to deposit the poo once bagged.

We recently returned from five weeks in Scandinavia, where people take dogs on buses, trains, into malls, restaurants and hotels with nobody minding in the least.

But of course the dogs are controlled and obedient (not necessarily on leashes) and do not make a nuisance of themselves. And there are clearly signposted ‘dog lavatory’ areas with proper bags and bins, and the owners use them. This is the case in all developed countries.

Mark, you ask: “Whose beach is it anyway?” The answer: those parts set aside for breeding birds must belong to the birds alone, but they have to share the rest of the beaches with swimmers, sun-bathers,

children, fishermen, boaters... and dog walkers.

This is a holiday town and these are public beaches. They all have a right to be there. What we need is an unambiguous and simple allocation of stretches of beach for particular purposes, well signposted, well patrolled, with a clear set of rules.

As for myself, I pick up after my dogs, I do put them on a leash where they can be disturbing people or animals, but also let them run freely on the beach and swim in the sea, for they badly need exercise and there are no fenced parks in Plett.

Responsible owners will ensure that their dogs do not chase or disturb birds.

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Let’s share our healing powers with those in need

Thanks to CXPRESS punting Cuj" (" Xcp" Gzrqugf" on your October 9 front cover, it ended up being a sell-out! The show was a huge success with 200 people attending and enjoying themselves.

Following this great event at Plett’s beautiful Whitehouse Theatre, we would like to say a big thank you to everyone who made it happen, including Ash and Vanessa Searle, everyone who attended, Ian at Music Box, Plett radio station MC90.3FM, Plett Tourism, and CXPRESS. Your continued support is very much appreciated and goes a long way to keep the Kids of Kurland Project going.

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In response to the letter ‘Longships rehabs irk’ in your previous edition (click on the Letters page of issue 374 at www. cxpress.co.za), I should like to express my feelings regarding the expansion of these centres along this street.

Plettenberg Bay is such a beautiful part of South Africa.

I’ve often heard it said that it has magical powers that reach deep down into your soul.

My wish and prayer is for any local, visitor, or tourist to experience this magic. If Plett can offer love, warmth, support and healing to all, what a wonderful achievement. We don’t only want to be known as the Jewel

goon. I have seen power boats and kids create far greater havoc in the bird colony than dogs.

In fact, since one can only get to the bird colony by boat, children are in my view more common culprits. Again, the problem is not the children as such but the grown-ups who take them there and do not supervise them properly.

I deeply share Mark’s concern for our bird colonies which deserve to be properly protected.

But ‘properly protected’ means keeping all people out of the colony, proper sign-posting and proper enforcement of by-laws.

It also means educating visitors to respect the bird colonies.

Protecting any bird nests on Lookout Beach will not be easy. Even if one could get local people (and their dogs and kids) to keep away, it will soon be swamped by ignorant Gautengers who will not even realise they are near any nests - unless the area is constantly patrolled.

The issue of doggy poo is an

of the Garden Route with a peak trading season.

Our beloved pansy shell makes Plett unique. How privileged we are, being able to accommodate and share these blessings of nature with others.

It brings joy to my heart knowing that in Plett there just might be a soul being comforted and given inner strength from our wonderful town and loving community, at any given moment in time. I welcome expansion and progress to the betterment of all mankind.

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Rehabilitation centres are legally permitted to operate as occupational practices in terms of the Plettenberg Bay zoning.

Explains Strategic Services head Dupré Lombard: “Bitou Municipality imposes relevant conditions and simply monitors the use in terms of land planning, not operations.”

The municipality can only control and manage what is permitted in terms of the relevant statutes. *Yg" jcxg" tgegkxgf" cpqvjgt" ngv/ vgt"kp"vjku"tgictf."yjkej"wphqt/ vwpcvgn{"ecppqv"dg"rncegf"cu"vjg" ytkvgt"pgingevgf"vq"rtqxkfg"jku1 jgt"pcog"cpf"eqpvcev"fgvcknu0"/" Gfu0+

Kids of Kurland grateful for Plett support

ISSUE 375

15

Read CXPRESS online @ www.cxpress.co.za

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CXPRESS

ISSUE 375

Sport & Adventure

October 23 - 2013

Mexican marlin, beware: Mike and his mates are a comin’ C

ONGRATULATIONS to Plett-based angler Mike Riley for being selected as one of a four-man team to represent South Africa in the European Federation of Sea Anglers (EFSA) championships hosted in Cabo San Lucas, Mexico, later this month.

Having achieved his Protea colours in deep-sea angling late last year, Mike represents Griquas in this auspicious SA team captained by Richard Hartley (Southern Gauteng), Jacques van Wyk (Zululand), and Trevor Spence (Southern Gauteng).

Cabo San Lucas is by far the most famous fishing destina-

tion in Mexico, located 1’000 miles from the USA border at the tip of Baja California peninsula. Here, at the spectacular ‘El Arco’, the Sea of Cortez meets the Pacific Ocean, and the desert meets the waters of a sport fishing paradise known across the globe as ‘The Marlin Highway’.

So it comes as no surprise that the tournament’s target species is marlin, with a line class of 15kg/30lbs. The competition is fished over five days, unless a rest day is called or inclement weather prevails, and we wish Mike and his team tight lines and the very best of luck.

Constable/Sensei JJ does Plett proud

COLOURS EARNED: This pic of Mike Riley was taken when he received Protea colours for deep-sea angling late last year - the inset shows Mike holding up the prestigious Port St Francis Ski Boat & Yacht Club Tuna Grand Slam trophy, won in 2010

Record entries for Indwe Open in George

S Congratulations to constable Jonathan Jansen of KwaNokuthula police station, who brought home two medals after participating in the SAPS National Martial Arts Championships in Port Elizabeth. Jonathan - who has reported the accomplishments of his Karate Kyousei Dojo students on these pages before - received a silver medal in kumite and bronze in kata, and was also chosen for the national martial arts team. Communications officer at KwaNo SAPS Nolukholo Doyi shared this good news with us and said Jonathan’s colleagues are all very proud of him.

Call 078 636 5677 or 073 143 8239 for more information on Plett’s Karate Kyousei Dojo.

Diarise the 21st Double Century

F

OR those Garden Route cyclists who itch to venture inland, the Coronation Double Century offers a challenging 202km team ride renowned for its camaraderie and team spirit.

Celebrating its 21st birthday this year, the race is scheduled for November 23 with its start and finish in the historic town

of Swellendam and the route passes Montagu before tackling Tradouw Pass and the tough 7km Op De Tradouw.

The Coronation DC is limited to 200 teams, with up to 12 cyclists per team. Call 021 681 4333 during office hours or follow @TheCoronationDC on Twitter for more information.

OUTH Africa’s senior amateur golf sector is making great strides, as reflected in the record number of entries for the Indwe Senior Amateur Open Championship that starts at Fancourt today.

“We received an unprecedented 363 entries,” raved SA Golf Association coordinator Eden Thomson.

“Not only is it a 31% increase on last year, but 99 entries more than the field size of 264 allows for a tournament of this stature.

So for the first time since the introduction of two courses, we have had to revert to a ballot system to cut the field to its required size.”

Senior golf chairman Tim Hewan explained that the entries for the 2002 championship in George so far exceeded the field size at the time that the ballot system had to be introduced.

“We played at George Golf Club and the course couldn’t accommodate the number, so the National Senior Event over two courses was introduced to accommodate the demand and in 2004, the SA Senior Amateur Open was played at the PE Golf

Club as well as Humewood.”

The new format stood up well and the number of entries has grown steadily to the 260/265 mark where it has been hovering since 2007.

“In any sport, sustainability is of prime importance and this vast amount of entries is testament to the growth and interest in the Senior Amateur section.

It is essential for sponsors to see that their investment is warranted. It shows a sponsor like Indwe Risk Services the growth in this sector where they are so strongly present.”

The Indwe Senior Amateur Open is contested at the Gary Player-designed Montagu and Outeniqua courses from October 23-25.

Defending champion Mellette Hendrikse leads a strong lineup including three-time winner Jock Wellington, current Senior number one Francois le Roux, and 2013 Provincial and Regional Senior champions Gavin van Aswegen, Norman Phillips, Ramon Rahme, Steve Smit, Rinus van Niekerk, Morgan Phillips, Ben Kleynhans, Peter van Coller and Phillipus Bierman.