The Village NEWS 13-19 March 2018

Village

The

NEWS NEWS

Mayoral Entrepreneurial Winner

13 - 19 March 2018

Cape Whale Coast

FREE COPY

DANIEL JARDIM

HAWSTON

SPORT NEWS

A man for all seasons

Dream big, says Prof

5 pages of action

PAGE 11

PAGE 16

PAGE 20

The ABC of our water situation De Waal Steyn

N

ot only do we have a Plan A and Plan B to maintain sufficient water supply, we also have a Plan C and Plan D to ensure adequate water supply to residents in the decades to come,” says Stephen Müller, Director of Infrastructure and Planning at the Overstrand Municipality.

This follows concerns by residents that not enough is being done to prevent a similar situation to that of other areas in the Western Cape that are currently suffering from a severe shortage of water.

Herman Groenewald, vice chair of the Overberg Kennel Club which, together with the Whale Coast Kennel Club, staged their first ever championship breed shows in Hermanus on Saturday 10 March. With Herman are his two dogs, an Italian Spinone, Umberto and his basset hound, Frank. They both won several titles on the day – and it’s easy to see why. Read more on P21.

PHOTO: Taylum Meyer

According to Stephen their arsenal of plans includes the sinking of more boreholes, the purification of greywater and desalinisation.

“Understandably residents are concerned over our water situation against the backdrop of the terrible drought in other areas of the country. But in the Overstrand we are in a fortunate position that we have access to enough water to meet the demand.

“People must also realise that no new dams can or will be built due to the huge ecological impact it has on the environment and therefore we need to look at other sources of water to keep up with demand in future.”

But, says Stephen, much more can be done to optimise the current water usage in the Overstrand. “It’s interesting to note that even now between 50% and 60% of municipal water is being used for gardening purposes. If residents make a concerted effort to plant water-wise gardens, we can save millions

of litres every month (Read more on P17).

“In addition, international research has shown that the average daily water usage per capita in South Africa is 235 litres compared to an average of 173 litres per capita in the rest of world. Currently people in Cape Town use less than 87 litres per person per day.”

At the moment Hermanus uses approximately 10 million litres of water per week and the level of the De Bos dam stood on 50.7% by the end of January 2018 and on 46% by end of February 2018, compared to 74.8% by the end of February 2017.

Hermanus had 54.4 mm of rain during February 2018, compared to the long-term average of 32.4 mm for February.

Read more on P3

2

13 - 19 March 2018

THE

NEWS

OPINION Matters

Time to invest in water Water is a subject that stays part of our daily conversations.

With a crippling drought adversely affecting many communities, all hope is on a good rainy season.

There are, however, many other aspects to the drought that will impact even on us in the Overstrand, where we still have access to adequate water supplies.

As mentioned in this week’s front page story on the water situation in the Overstrand, South Africans use more water per capita than any other country in the world.

Combined with the fact that more than half of the Overstrand’s potable water is used for gardening, it seems as if a much greater understanding of water saving needs to be cultivated.

To this end experts have already warned that consumers in the Western Cape will only feel the effect of the drought after the rainy season, when the shortage of especially vegetables will become apparent. According to Agri Western Cape in the Ceres area, the limited water supply resulted in 50% fewer onions and 80% fewer potatoes being planted. The impact of this (besides less food being produced), is wage losses of millions of rands for seasonal

Flower garden plan for Westcliff wilts The proposed flower park on the open field next to the Hermanus Medical Village in Westcliff will not go ahead after permission was denied by the Municipality.

workers. It may also potentially influence the consumer in price increases. Two tomato canning factories in Saldanha Bay have ceased operations and a factory in Lutzville that produces tomato purée has closed for the season.

The proposal that was tabled at a Ward 3 committee meeting in December foresaw a joint project between Hermanus Ratepayers Association (HRA), Westcliff Residents Association (WRA), the Municipality and residents.

Hundreds of hectares of citrus trees have been cut back and hundreds of hectares of orchards have been pulled out in an effort to save the little water allocated to producers.

Fewer producing hectares means smaller yields, less food. Indications currently are that the deciduous fruit harvest will be 20% smaller. Agriculture is the backbone of our province’s rural economies and the effect of the drought can lead to devastating socioeconomic and economic effects.

According to Bob Stanway of HRA the aim was to create an area for the use of patients and residents of the Medical Village, Huis Lettie Theron, Westcliff residents and the Hermanus community.

Grain yields in the winter producing regions have been far below average, in some areas 50% below average. In certain areas north of Moorreesburg, producers had no yield at all.

Now might be the time for us to invest in community vegetable gardens and even a small-scale canning plant. The social impact will be as gratifying as the economic effect.

This is the good NEWS – Ed

WHERE TO FIND US The Village NEWS is published weekly and the next edition will be available on 20 March. The NEWS can be found at over 100 distribution points on the Cape Whale Coast, from Pringle Bay to Gansbaai.

Get your FREE copy from major retail stores such as Spar, Checkers and Pick n Pay, and at restaurants, tasting rooms, galleries and shopping centres. Should you wish to receive a copy, call us on 028 312 2234 or 083 228 7523 or pop into our office at 6 Royal Street, Hermanus.

Ombudsman The press exists to serve society. Its freedom provides for independent scrutiny, and is essential to ensuring demo-cracy. It enables citizens to make informed judgments, a role that is recognised by the Constitution. The Village NEWS subscribes to the South African Press Code and thus to the South African Press Council and the South African Press Ombudsman. Should you feel our reporting is not fair, free or unbiased and without prejudice, or that serious errors have been made, you are welcome to lay a complaint with the Ombudsman.

Reach him on 011 484 3612/8, e-mail pressombudsman.org.za or visit www.ombudsman.org.za

“We are immensely disappointed in the decision not to give us permission to create a communal park on what is at the moment nothing but an eyesore,” said Bob. Municipal Manager Coenie Groenewald said the decision

was made because of the possible future development of the site.

“We understand the need for the community to enhance their environment and to create a pleasant space for the elderly and patients at the medical centres. But unfortunately, the proposed park might need to be demolished if construction should take place.

We are aware of the very rare Kukumakranka (Gethyllis afra) fynbos bulb plants on the site and will ensure their safety,” Coenie said.

According to him another area close by in Orothamnus Street is available for the creation of a flower park.

Bob said that a lot of effort has gone into the proposal for the park on Church Street. “We got input from most of the interested and affected parties before we made the proposal. The idea was to create a fynbos garden with paths and benches as well as the planting of large

trees that could be used as shade for residents of Huis Lettie Theron and patients undergoing treatment at the Oncology Centre.”

The owners of the Medical Village indicated that they are keen on the project and were willing to contribute funds.

Several individuals as well as the HRA have also said that they are willing to contribute funds for the project. Support for the project was also received from Hermanus Botanical Society, and Ward 3.

According to Town Planner Riaan Kuchar, there have been several proposals over the last few years for constructions ranging from guest houses to living quarters for medical staff to a dementia and Alzheimer’s treatment centre on the land. “There have, however, not been any formal applications. Should we receive such an application there will still need to be several processes, such as zoning applications, that have to be completed before any building can start,” he said.

Unlocked door leads to theft Fidelity ADT has issued a warning to Hermanus residents to never leave their doors unlocked, after a resident from Voëlklip was recently burgled. It is believed that three suspects gained access to her home through an open door, while the resident was having an afternoon nap.

“Armed response officer JP van Wyk was dispatched to investigate a report of a burglary at a home in Voëlklip. The resident told him that she woke from an afternoon nap to discover that her tablet and mobile phone were missing. The front door had been left unlocked, and it was suspected that this was how the alleged burglars gained access,” says Marius Boshoff, branch manager for Fidelity in Hermanus.

The case was handed over to Hermanus SAPS for further investigation, and JP continued with his patrols.

“It was while he was patrolling Eastcliff that he noticed three suspects walking along the side of the road. When he realised

Fidelity ADT armed response officer JP van Wyk. that one of the group was a well-known previous offender, he decided to stop and question them,” says Marius.

The alleged stolen mobile phone was discovered in possession of one of the suspects, and they also told the officer where they had hidden the stolen tablet.

“JP requested that SAPS be

called to the scene to take the suspects into custody,” adds Marius.

“Well done to our officer for his persistence and quick response.

It is important that residents never neglect their home security measures, even when they are at home. Keep the doors and gates locked and if you have an alarm system, make sure it is armed.”

3

13 - 19 March 2018

Saving water remains best option From P1 The Buffels River Dam, which supplies water to Rooi-Els, Pringle Bay, and Betty’s Bay, is still at 85% of capacity, the Kraaibosch Dam at Gansbaai is also at 85%, and the Pearly Beach Dam is at 100%. The boreholes supplying Hermanus, Stanford, Baardskeerdersbos and Buffeljagsbaai have not been adversely affected by the drought at this stage.

The average daily water demand of Hermanus during February 2018 was 10.22 million litres per day, compared to 12.24 million litres per day during February 2017. This amounts to a saving of 16.5%, or 56.6 million litres of water in total in February compared to the previous year.

According to Stephen the first steps to increase water reserves will be the sinking of an additional four boreholes over the next two years.

“The underground reserves we can tap into are enormous. This water system forms part of the Table Mountain Group (TMG) and is called a fractured rock aquifer, which means it is water trapped in the cracks in the sandstone. The TMG has been identified as one of the major regional aquifers in South Africa, spanning an area of 248 000 km² covering almost the whole Western Cape and part of the Eastern Cape.

“Even after three dry seasons we have not seen a drop in the level of our groundwater and it is estimated that a change in the level will only occur after at least ten dry seasons.

I can assure everyone that we

constantly monitor the water levels and we must adhere to very strict licencing conditions.” The nine boreholes produce op to 3.5 million litres per day.

counts in our favour. Also, after the water has been used by the farms its temperature is higher, which assists in the desalinisation process,” says Stephen.

Says Stephen: “In addition to the boreholes, reused water is the cheapest and easiest way for us to add to our water reserves. At present we use approximately 1.5 million litres of greywater for the irrigation of various sports fields and the golf course. In future we plan to build an additional purification plant to purify greywater to add to our drinking water. In fact, once greywater has been purified it is some of the cleanest water you can get.”

He emphasised that the greywater does not include recycled sewerage water.

According to him desalinisation is highly complex, but the Municipality is gaining valuable information from the reverse osmosis process it currently applies to brackish water that is purified from two fountains near De Kelders. “Although the salt content in brackish water is much lower than seawater, the purification process is the same. We are gaining useful insight from this that will help us when a desalinisation plant is built.”

Longer term plans are being put into motion to build a desalinisation plant in Hermanus. “Although this is a very expensive option, we are in the best position possible to implement desalinisation quickly and easily. More than a quarter of your capital investment in such a plant is building extraction points to bring the seawater onto dry land. We are in the fortunate position that several abalone farms already have that infrastructure in place. We would be able to source extracted seawater from these farms. In fact, discussions in his regard have been had with the farms.

“Further to this, the fact that the seawater used by the abalone farms is already cleaner after the necessary nutrients to feed the abalone have been removed, also

The Gansbaai region is served primarily by the Kraaibosch Dam and it has more than sufficient capacity to meet the growing demand for water. “The Municipality is an equal shareholder in the dam together with three farmers in the area. Only one of the three farms is operational and between the Municipality and the farm, less than the allotted quota is being used. Should the need arise the Municipality would be able to buy a bigger stake in the dam,” he says. This is in addition to the brackish spring water that is purified.

Both Kleinmond and Pringle Bay have never suffered from water shortages. The dams and rivers that supply water to these towns form part of the Palmiet river system that is fed by several springs and groundwater in the Kogelberg Biosphere. There are two unused boreholes in Klein-

mond that can be used in an emergency.

Betty’s Bay did have minimal water problems but that was fixed by repairing leakages in the system. Should the need ever arise, the wall of the Buffels River Dam, which supplies water to Rooi-Els, Pringle Bay, and Betty’s Bay can be raised by 1.5 metres.

The spring that supplies water to Stanford provides enough water to feed both the water system and the furrows in town.

“Residents have asked that we discontinue the flow of water through the furrows because of the drought. It is not necessary to do that as runoff into the furrows is water that we have no need for. The system forms part of the unique heritage of the town and we want to keep that.

The water from the furrows in turn feed into the Klein River and is therefore not wasted.”

According to Stephen there are also four boreholes outside Stanford of which only 25% of the water from one is being used at the moment.

“Interestingly, the whole area surrounding Stanford used to be a large delta from which the Klein River fed into the ocean.

Geological surveys have shown that there are numerous ancient, or paleo channels filled with water still running underground and feeding into the ocean.

These channels are in actual fact strong running underground rivers from millions of years ago.”

4

13 - 19 March 2018

Hotels, holidays and the Hermanus economy: Part Two The remarkable heritage of The Marine Hotel and its pivotal role in the socio-economic history of Hermanus continues in this second instalment from the draft of a new book currently being written by DR ROBIN LEE of the Hermanus History Society.

This week’s exclusive extract follows on Part One published in last week’s edition of The Village NEWS.

A

capital in the hotel and the old main building deteriorated rapidly. In 1967 The Marine was bought by Swiss-born Werner Hinder, who already owned the famous Arthur’s Seat Hotel in Sea Point, Cape Town. Extensive alterations were undertaken, including the construction of a new wing, the San Marino.

These extensions consisted of a more modern block of bedrooms, a restaurant and an outdoor swimming pool. An abortive attempt was made to open a casino in the 1970s.

fter the death, in 1940, of PJ Luyt, the hotelier who had turned The Marine into a highly successful and popular establishment, his resourceful widow Joey renamed the hotel as ‘Luyt’s Marine Hotel’. She managed it herself, with the help of her daughters and some dedicated staff, until 1947. By 1944 the hotel had developed further and aspects of the modern hotel were beginning to appear.

Joey and her daughters felt the full impact of World War II. Necessities of all kinds were severely rationed or simply not available. Their menus had to feature two meatless days a week and another two days on which only pork could be served. Sugar was rationed and white flour unobtainable. At the same time, new classes of people flooded into Hermanus, all looking for accommodation.

The vast majority of these were Allied troops from all the nations involved in the War. Some were on leave from ships transporting them to and from the various battlefields of the world. Some were South Africans or foreign troops permanently stationed in this country, for instance, the Royal Air Force personnel from the Catalina flying boat station on the Bot River Estuary. Sadly, still others were “wounded, convalescent… ill, disabled, shocked or trying to heal”, as Berdine Luyt wrote in her Memoirs.

Berdine describes how, at The Marine, they tried to fit in all comers. Some rooms were kept permanently vacant for soldiers (not officers), who had no way of booking in advance. Other servicemen slept in the billiard room, in the Luyt family’s own private sitting room, and in the sitting rooms of guests who had booked and paid for suites. And a blackout after dark did not seem to spoil the fun. However, it was all tinged with sadness, as Berdine herself writes: “We never knew which of all the brave boys we met, was having his last good time on this earth.”

Among the guests at The Marine during the Luyts’ tenure were: Sir Patrick and Lady Duncan; Edward, Prince of Wales; Sir de Villiers Graaff; Sir William Hoy; writers John Galsworthy, Pauline Smith, E H Sheppard, C Louis Leipoldt and Nicholas Monsarrat; and artists Pierneef, William Timlin and John Henry Amshwitz.

In 1947, Joey van Rhyn Luyt sold The Marine Hotel to a company, Continental Hotels and Restaurants Pty Ltd., a subsidiary of the L.H.C. Corporation of South Africa Ltd. The first manager appointed by Continental Hotels was Eric Constantine Colbeck who, with his

PHOTO: Old Harbour Museum The Marine Hotel (1944) during World War II, when Allied troops were often accommodated in the hotel.

The Marine Hotel today.

ABOVE: Tretchikoff’s ‘Chinese Girl’, which was painted in 1950, the year he first stayed at The Marine.

RIGHT: Tretchikoff also decorated the menus of the hotel’s Christmas lunch menus with delicate botanical watercolours of fynbos plants. wife Mary, managed The Marine at a level of service quite comparable to the Luyts.

Colbeck is described in one document of the time as ‘a dapper Yorkshireman’ and he and Mary redecorated the interior in a more modern style and provided entertainment that was very popular.

The hotel remained the drawcard it had long been and further additions were made to the buildings. In the 1950s, several cottages to the east of the hotel itself were purchased and demolished to allow a

block of additional bedrooms to be built.

We know from other sources that the controversial artist Vladimir Grigoryevich Tretchikoff (1913-2006) – universally known by his surname only – visited The Marine Hotel with his wife and daughter in 1950 and 1951. Before that, in 1942, Tretchikoff’s wife and daughter had narrowly escaped the fall of Singapore where they were living at the time.

Tretchikoff himself was captured by the Japanese

forces and spent several years in a concentration camp. He survived this and caught up with his family in Cape Town in the late 1940s. He immediately started to produce paintings in a distinctive and very popular style. In the 1950s, he exhibited in Los Angeles, San Francisco and London. In 1950 (the year he first stayed at The Marine) he painted the ‘Chinese Girl’, which has become the original of the best-selling art print in history and was itself sold in 2013 for R17 million.

At The Marine Eric Colbeck scared the more conservative guests by asking Tretchikoff to decorate the menus for the Christmas lunches. To everyone’s surprise he did so with delicate botanical watercolours of fynbos. Nothing more different from his usual style can be imagined.

Eric Colbeck was followed by a succession of managers, but they were unable to keep up the standards of the past.

Continental Hotels was reluctant to invest further

Robert Halkett, the grandson of P J Luyt’s brother Alewyn, recalls Joey Luyt in the context of their Schoongezicht home on the corner of Main Road across from the hotel and her florist shop in the grounds of the house. His branch of the family now lives in Cape Town, but retain a house in Fourie Street in Hermanus. He remembers the San Marino’s swimming pool adjacent to the main building which he and his friends used on occasion. However, they preferred the Marine tidal pool at the foot of the cliffs in front of the hotel. This had been opened in 1924. The Marine and San Marino were poorly managed at this time (in the 1960s) and some of the boys would actually occupy vacant rooms in San Marino overnight, without permission, and then, masquerading as guests, eat a full English breakfast the next day for 50c.

Circumstances dictated that Berdine and Paddy Luyt reexperienced The Marine Hotel in the early 1970s. They both worked there under Werner Hinder when the hotel was deteriorating. Only Berdine recorded her impressions in a general tone of bemused amazement at the behaviour of successive managers. This helps us to accept the reality of incidents that often defy belief, and on one occasion resulted in a manager spending time in the cells at the Hermanus Police Station, charged with fraud.

Berdine’s previous experience of running the hotel herself gives her a yardstick to measure how far from satisfactory these managers were, but she keeps sympathy with them and is genuinely distressed when Mr. Coleman is incarcerated.

No further investment in The Marine was forthcoming, and the hotel was allowed to run down during the late 1970s.

Hinder was glad to sell it to David Rawdon in 1980.

The author welcomes any comments or additional information about the extract. Please contact him at robinlee@hermanus.co.za. All contributions will be acknowledged.

5

13 - 19 March 2018

At Voëlklip the grass is really greener

O

ne morning in January a small group of earlymorning swimmers were enjoying a well-deserved cup of coffee on the stoep of the historical little building above Voëlklip beach, when they noticed the bare patch just below them where no grass was growing. In fact, most of the lawn at this popular beach had died during the dry, summer months – and right there a decision was made to do something about it.

Colleen Naudé watering the initial grass offshoots, with Jock Sparks supervising.

They started with the bare patch of about five by four metres, where some fertiliser was added to the barren soil before grass offshoots were planted – and the project was under way. Thanks to a stream trickling down from the mountain, there was water available for the new grass and very soon, passers-by started to notice the transformation. Now this small group of swimmers turned farm hands, have become a familiar sight at Voëlklip beach.

When they are not in the water, they can be seen weeding, planting and watering.

While some people offered financial assistance, others brought bags of fertiliser, and soon a kitty grew. That enabled the team to order some sods to cover a bigger patch to the east of the building, where no grass has grown for years. For that part of the project a team of workers came with a truck-load of sods supplied by Chris Carstens of Stanford, and paid for from the carefully audited Voëlklip Lawn Fund. That area was cordoned off to prevent people from walking on the newly laid lawn.

The group of intrepid early-morning swimmers who took it upon themselves to beautify the lawn at Voëlklip beach. From left are Lesley van Niekerk, Malcolm Gordan, Jock Sparks (project manager), Carien Delport, Colleen Naudé and Sonni Lovemore.

The enthusiasm among other swimmers and the public grew and more people offered financial

assistance. The funds allowed for the whole lawn area, not only the newly planted areas, to be mowed on Tuesday, 6 March, creating a manicured area to be enjoyed by everyone visiting the beautiful Voëlklip beach.

The swimmers regard the project as a work in progress. More bare patches will be covered and, thanks to the mountain stream, no municipal water is required to water the lawns. This has been the case for years, ever since Wallie Prozesky, one of the regular swimmers, installed an irrigation system by channelling the mountain water through a hosepipe, ensuring that the grass at Voëlklip is always greener.

Each of these intrepid earlymorning swimmers, who range in age from 45 to 85, deserves a high five for their efforts – and not only because they put the rest of us to shame by taking to the water every morning at 07:00, come rain or shine. They include Jock Sparks (who continues his daily swim right through winter and when I asked, “But what if you have a cold?” answered that he hasn’t had one in decades!), Sonni Lovemore (a very eager weeder), Malcolm Gordon (who looks after the irrigation when Wallie is not available), Colleen Naudé, Lesley van Niekerk, Carien Delport and Cora Coetzee.

“There is nothing quite as invigorating as a swim in the ocean first thing in the morning,” said Colleen as she came back from her swim, boogie board under her arm, on the day I visited them. “It just puts you in good mood for the rest of the day and I feel ready to meet any challenge.”

– Hedda Mittner

6

13 - 19 March 2018

THE

NEWS

Let’s Talk Send your letters to dewaal@thevillagenews.co.za

Add your voice to our FB poll QUESTION: There have been many serious accidents on the R43 between Hermanus and Botrivier. Most of the way the speed limit is 120km/h, even at the crossing towards Kleinmond. Should the speed limit be lowered?

Our leaders should emulate William Hoy The front page of your latest issue (6 – 12 March) is devoted to the ‘Renewed Focus on Whale Coast Tourism’ and the desire and methodology of the Mayor to attract more visitors.

On page 2 is an article on further water restrictions, quoting the same Mayor!

It is intriguing for me, as a fairly recent resident, to compare the philosophies of people such as William Hoy and our current ‘leaders’. Hoy did not want a plethora of day-trippers and had the spirit to prevent the building of a railway. Today’s

powers that be want more tourists, development, expansion, even the conversion of a nature reserve into a theme park, i.e. all that is contrary to what Hoy stood for.

There seems to be little concern for local residents, who by and large are an intelligent and environmentally appreciative lot, and who are enjoying Hoy’s legacy.

If developers want ‘tourism’, they should relocate to Cape Town (when the water situation improves) and

Thank you for public support The Sustainable Futures Trust (SFT) recently held its first Charity Can Collection. We are most grateful to the Municipality for granting us permission to do so, and the businesses, who were happy to allow us to use their facilities, on 24 February.

We raised R6 743.60 which will be used by our Clive Prins Youth Treatment Programme to continue its work amongst school children who are abusing substances.

A huge thank you from SFT to the volunteers who generously gave us their time, the public for their support and our dedicated staff who went the extra mile to make our first Charity Can Collection a success. We could not have done this without you all.

Baie dankie, enkosi.

Ann Wright, Manager: Sustainable Futures Trust

leave Hermanus as the gem that it is. And how much more ‘development’ can Hermanus take anyway?

And what for?

Another twist is that new economically active residents, including many of the younger generation, want to live in the ambience that already exists here; that’s why they came. And things get expensive when we get caught in the tourist trap, as residents already know.

Peter Coxall

Good news from HPP On Thursday morning, 8 March, at approximately 03:20 Hermanus Public Protection (HPP) CCTV Operators spotted a suspicious man walking with a weed eater and a bag full of items. The man came from the cliff path and was heading towards Still Street, Westcliff.

The CCTV operators informed the HPP supervisor and the officer on night patrol.

They responded and found the suspect in Still Street.

The suspect had a lot of building equipment on him and control contacted Hermanus SAPS to inform them of the situation. SAPS members arrived and arrested the suspect for being in possession of alleged stolen items.

Hennie Niemand, Manager HPP

More marketing is good news As a visitor to Hermanus I was delighted to find you newspaper in my hotel room. It is always interesting to read about the places you visit and to understand the local way of thinking.

I read with interest your frontpage story Renewed focus on Whale Coast Tourism (The Village NEWS, 6 March 2018).

When we decided to visit South Africa, we did a lot of research in our country on the internet and our travel agent gave us

information. In the end we decided to visit Johannesburg, Durban and Cape Town.

Cape Town was on our list specially to see Table Mountain and taste wines.

It was only when we read about the shark cage diving in a brochure in our hotel that we became aware of your town and its surrounds. Even though we thought we did much research on South Africa we were never aware of a place called the Cape Whale Coast.

We are surprised at the fact that this place is not more prominent in marketing. Here is so much to do and see. We even tasted some of the best wines ever here in your valley.

The marketing of the Cape Whale Coast must be your priority. Yes, it will draw more people that may annoy the locals, but you cannot keep this gem hidden.

Sven and Alita, Sweden

Yes it should be lowered to 100

193

Yes it should be lowered to 80

101

Only lower the limit at crossings

88

No the current limit should be kept

23

Your comments: Linette Verster: Always wondered why 100 km/h on N2 but 120 from Hermanus turnoff, it is ridiculous!

Sheron Pretorius: Lowering the speed may well result in even more accidents. People get impatient and then overtake when it’s not safe.

Alta Prinsloo Bester: Why not more signs that show the crossing clearer? My son lives on a farm close by and there are accidents all the time...

Jessica Roux: Driving 80 or 100 will just as much kill you

as driving at 120. People just need to stop driving like idiots!

Jackie Mellowship: The intersection at Kleinmond turnoff makes me nervous and I slow down there. Too many people turning in front of drivers keeping to the 100 km/h speed limit. They should put a roundabout there which is far more efficient than traffic lights. More than enough room there and it will slow down the traffic.

Patrick Lotter: One can lower the speed limit, but people are still going to speed. Cars today are too fast, and people don’t

know how to handle cars at high speeds. Traffic lights or roundabouts won't work.

They will cause more chaos.

The only way to solve the problem at Kleinmond intersection is to build an on-ramp and offramp, which will cost far too much.

Smart Toys Hermanus: Small, noisy speed bumps like those ones when you come off N2 at Botriver but put them at Kleinmond turnoff in all 3 directions! (From Cape Town, from Hermanus and from Kleinmond.) The noise will wake you up or frighten you off your cellphone if you're texting... it’s the only answer!

Ratepayers’ comments not taken seriously I read the article by Amanda Hofmeyr in your 27 February – 5 March edition of The Village NEWS (The benefits of living in Hermanus). Part of the article had the sub-heading ‘No noise pollution’.

This has prompted me to write to you about the lack of interest of the Mayor and his staff concerning noise pollution and the lack of number plates.

I get no enjoyment from complaining but I do think that the Municipality should not ignore serious comments from ratepayers.

On 10 February I wrote a letter

to our traffic chief, Rudi Fraser.

My question was: What are the bylaws concerning noise pollution caused by motorbikes and what action can be taken against the perpetrators? I pointed out that the motorcyclist who lives opposite my house makes as much noise as possible and that his motorbike has no licence plates.

The Mayor’s office replied to the original message but they did not bother to follow up on this matter, even after I sent another email on 16 February, with the heading ‘Noise pollution from motorbikes

and lack of number plates’.

Amusingly, at the top of their acknowledgement are the words ‘To be a centre of excellence for the community’.

I was interested to read that you printed a copy of my recent message to the Mayor with the heading ‘More control needed over water wastage’. I have little confidence that any notice will be taken of the suggestion.

May I congratulate you on your well-deserved success with The Village NEWS.

Roger Summers

Slow down in Sandbaai With regards to the letter about the motorists in Hermanus (Bad driving habits leave motorist stumped, VN 6 March 2018) I cannot agree more.

The general lawlessness on our roads is a concern. Sandbaai Main Road has become a drag strip with loud motorcycles speeding up and down at all hours of the night. What

they certainly do not realise is that there are many people who are elderly who live here that do not want to be woken up in the middle of the night by a loud noise.

slow down before crossing a stop street. And the circle at Bergsig Street is dangerous early in the morning with mothers speeding to get their children to the school on time.

It also seems as if stop signs have become irrelevant to many motorists. I have seen countless times how someone speeds down a road only to

Surely our Law Enforcement Officials can take this state of affairs a little more seriously.

Sandbaaier

7

13 - 19 March 2018

Litter Ladies thanked for keeping Onrus clean

I

t’s been almost a year since The Village NEWS first reported on the small group of intrepid Onrus women who took up the fight against litter along the beautiful Onrus / Vermont coastal path.

Determined to preserve and maintain the natural beauty of our coastline, the Litter Ladies, as they’ve become known, was founded by Colleen Ratz, who gathered a few friends together to help her on her mission by approaching the problem in an organised and coordinated way.

Donning gloves and orange vests, they set off every week with refuse bags that quickly fill up with fishing line, cigarette butts, plastic of every description, and even items of clothing and building rubble.

“These ladies pick up whatever litter they find, not only the easy to reach things,” says

Caroline Gabb of OnVerWag. “They also go down on the rocks at low tide searching for litter wedged under rocks that had become stuck, as well as tiny pieces of glass, wire, rope, steel, cable ties, rings from tin cans and plastic lids; all items that cause pollution and could endanger sea life are collected and removed. In addition to this the Litter Ladies have attached little pots filled with sand to benches and poles around the beach area to give smokers somewhere to dispose of their cigarette butts.”

The Litter Ladies have since grown from a group of three to almost a dozen, and at the monthly Onrus Markie on 3 March, the Onrus Ratepayers Association (ORA) thanked them for their valuable work.

ORA treasurer Johan Conradie

and secretary Cecilia Jacobs handed over a small donation towards their expenses, as they fund the costs they incur themselves. “We admire and appreciate these very special ladies and hope their example rubs off on all of us,” says Caroline. “Thank you, Litter Ladies!”

If anyone would like to join the Litter Ladies on their clean-up walks, please call Colleen on 028 316 3408 or 082 372 1000. Individuals, businesses or organisations are also most welcome to sponsor a cigarette butt bin and/or a doggy doo dispenser manufactured by Whale Coast Conservation (WCC) at a cost of R450 per unit, excluding the material and labour for installation. WCC can be contacted on 028 316 2527 or by sending an email to anina.wcc@gmail.com

The Onrus Litter Ladies with Cecilia Jacobs (far left) and Johan Conradie (far right) of the Onrus Ratepayers Association, who handed them a small donation for their hard work in keeping the Onrus / Vermont coastline free of litter. From left in the orange bibs are Jackie, Colleen, Leonie, Micheline, Wendy and Glenda. (Litter Ladies Esmé, Retha and Jenny were not present at the handover.)

PHOTO: Caroline Gabb

The beige and colourful Springbok Radio Before TV, huge dollops of advertising budgets were plowed into radio. Through their ad agencies, manufacturers of popular household products would sponsor timeslots on Springbok Radio.

Sometimes there were two soapies of fifteen minutes each, or perhaps two of thirty minutes each, and apart from cheering up the housewives, they also cheered up the sponsors immensely.

As well as having naming rights on all the opening and closing billboards in those time slots, sponsors could choose which ads were inserted during the shows, so their particular products were being hard-wired into the listeners’ memory banks.

At strategic ‘cliff-hanger’ points in the story, a couple of ads would be inserted. Sometimes they were jingles, sometimes

Wit’s End Murray Stewart thevillagemuze@gmail.com

testimonials or sometimes a straightforward announcer with background lift-music to hopefully make it sound more enticing.

Some of the actors in these soapies - with the right voices for a particular product would stay behind to record their speech tracks, and as a rookie sound engineer I would sit for hours with the ad agency producers packaging these half-minute sound bites with music and sound fx. They were crafted to convince gullible housewives to rush out for a box of OMO while husbands were persuaded to buy a Chevrolet or a razor that could

miraculously shave beards even before they appeared.

On one occasion we spent an entire week recording a variety of jingles and spots for an anonymous brand of breakfast cereals. There were seven flavours to be launched – honey, chocolate, strawberry etc. – so different actor/ singers were cast to portray the various characters on the boxes. It was an audio jigsaw puzzle of note. Apart from the chaotic conveyor belt of different musicians and singers coming and going, spoken voice-overs by other artists were needed to fit snugly between the sung lines

in the various jingles.

Thankfully the campaign was not in all eleven languages or we’d still be there.

Anyway, by the end of Friday everything was packaged and ready for broadcast. Jim, the stressed-out Brand Manager client who’d been in the studio with us all week was suitably chuffed, so he invited us for a celebratory toot or two at the Landdrost Hotel opposite our studios. Well, as the evening progressed, we all flung a few too many down the hatch and Jim – now completely destressed and well oiled – managed to let slip that sometimes it was more nutritious if you ate the actual box instead of its contents. He told us this in confidence, so mum’s the word.

Strangely enough – and I doubt this happened any-

where else in the world - if we wrote a jingle back in the seventies and eighties for any product like Fanta, Lux or Toyota, we were required to record two versions. The first version, with the desired sounds and instrumentation, was broadcast during the week.

Version Two was a diluted, pastel variation of the vivid original. It would have no banging, robust singing or intrusive instruments, thank you. Drum kits were replaced with bongos, tambourines and shakers. Anything as brazen as electric guitars or soulful saxes were substituted with something cheesy like a Hammond organ or soothingly flatulent woodwinds.

Vibrant vocals would also be mellowed down to a comforting croon because this version

was reserved for Sundays. It ensured that on our day of rest we didn’t agitate or disturb those fine folks dozing patiently on their stoeps between church services. Up-tempo happy music was understandably not conducive to dozing, but the concept of just switching off or changing stations was apparently not an option back then.

In these times of pod-casts, streaming and multiple community radio stations, the airwaves have been unshackled, but listening to the standard of some, one would swear they hadn’t evolved past version two from the seventies, and still broadcast in beige.

Sadly for us, radio stations are adime-a-dozen these days, but we’ll always miss the personalities like Fanus Rautenbach, Bob Courtney, Peter Lotis, Esmé Euvrard or Charles Fortune. RIP.

8

13 - 19 March 2018

5

US

2

28

31

5 33

AN e 0

RM er

HE th

Good Guide

u

s

ke a T

yo

Thursday 15 March

■ Rotary Club of Hermanus: Visitors are welcome to join in Rotary’s weekly meetings.

Contact Ian Wallace on 082 895 8738 or Metcalf Fick on 082 568 2193. Every Thursday at 19:00, at Mollergren Park.

Friday 16 March ■ Hermanus Hacking Group: All volunteers are welcome to join in the clearing of invasive vegetation. Contact Charlyn Vosloo on 082 558 8731. Meet every Friday at the green reservoir off Mountain Drive, at 07:15 for 07:30.

■ Bhuki Café: The Friends of Hermanus Library (FOHL) invite you to attend the book launch of Wheels within Wheels, a collection of short stories

by Pamela Williams. Enjoy coffee or tea and eats for only R20 in aid of the FOHL fund. Copies of Wheels within Wheels will also be available for purchase at R150. At Hermanus Library, from 09:00 – 12:00.

■ Kolwyntjie Teetuin: Everyone in the area is welcome to enjoy a sweet treat and tea or coffee at a nominal fee, and make new friends at the Onrus Care Centre (Dienssentrum). At the Onrus Dutch Reformed Church, every Friday between 09:30 and 11:30.

■ Human Evolution: Overberg U3A presents the third part of a new series of four lectures on Human Evolution, entitled The discovery of Homo Naledi – Part 1 by Gert Claassen. In the Catholic Church Hall, at 10:00.

warm for later. R460 per head includes a scrumptious three-course dinner and wines. To book, send an email to info@beaumont.co.za or call the office on 028 284 9194. At Beaumont Family Wines, at 18:30.

Friday 16 – Sunday 18 March ■ Greenpop Reforest Festival: Plant trees and party for the planet! The Reforest Fest is Africa’s largest annual reforestation festival, bringing people together to plant thousands of trees, dance to live local bands, learn with sustainability leaders, camp under the stars, and be inspired by positive collective action over two weekends.

Choose between the Reforest Fest Family Weekend from 16 – 18 March or the Reforest Fest Friends Weekend from 23 – 25 March. At Platbos Indigenous Forest. Get all the details and purchase your tickets at www.reforestfest.com

■ Stanford River Festival: The weekend will kick off with a cruise on the Friday at 17:00 in preparation for the main action on the Saturday, with events of 5 km, 10 km, 15 km and guppy (juniors) races, open to all – SUPs, K1s, K2s, K3s, sea kayaks, Indian canoes, surf skis and guppies.

The programme includes a WCCU President’s Trophy event, in which a number of current and former Springbok canoeists will take part. There will be a selection of food stalls, and a local craft beer and wine tent. All proceeds of the event support the ‘Rock the Boat’ Stanford Canoe Development Academy. Contact Stanford Info on 028 341 0340 or Wilien at vanzylwilien@ gmail.com for more details. Catch all the action at the riverfront at the bottom of Quick Street, Stanford, from 09:00.

and wine lovers meet. You’ll find “real plates and real cutlery; real cups and real glasses; a real hangout for real people”. In the courtyard of Hermanuspietersfontein wine cellar at The Village, from 09:00 – 13:00.

■ Market in the Garden: Hunt for treasures at this peaceful market set among the shady trees of a beautiful garden. At St Peter’s Church in Main Road, Hermanus, from 09:00 – 13:00.

■ CANSA Relay for Life: Businesses, schools, organisations, friends and families are invited to enter teams for this year’s popular Relay for Life fundraising event that is organised by volunteers in the community, for the community. Everyone is welcome to join, regardless of age or fitness level, to honour cancer survivors and celebrate life. There will be prizes for the team that raised the most funds, as well as the team with the most spirit. Get your entry form at Kleinmond Library or the CANSA offices in Roos Street, Onrus. Call Maryna on 028 316 3678, Dorenn Prent on 072 997 1452, or send a message to miemsie@onstv.net or 083 445 2684. This all-night event starts at 18:00 and ends at 06:00 on Sunday morning. At Hermanus High School sports grounds.

Sunday 18 – Friday 23 March ■ Whale Trail Photo Hike: thephotowalkers.com offers an exciting photographic treat to a maximum of 10 people over the age of 18 who will be accompanied by two accredited professional photographers on an incredible hiking experience in De Hoop Nature Reserve. Every detail has been taken care of, including transport, accommodation, food and drinks. Non-photographers (aka Soul Photographers) are welcome too! Contact Leanne Dryburgh on 083 293 7208 or send an email to tours@thephotowalkers.com. Find all the details at thephotowalkers.com/whaletrail-18-23-march-2018/

Sunday 18 March

Saturday 17 March ■ Friday is Braai Day: Back by popular demand! Come and meet the Ultimate Braai Master contestants of Guyall’s Kitchen at Hermanuspietersfontein Wines. Bring yourself, the love of your life, the kids, skoonma, your neighbours… and even the dogs! No need to bring the braai tong along – Guy and Lyall have the braai covered. Wine and beer available. For braai food purchases, cash or Snapscan only. At Hermanuspietersfontein in The Village, from 14:00 – 20:00.

■ Beaumont Art Stomp: Join Beaumont Family Wines in Botrivier for a special evening, stomping and dancing on the grapes in their candlelit cellar with plenty of delicious wine, food and live music.

The dress code is seriously casual; bring old clothes for the stomp, a towel and something

■ Hermanus parkrun: Meet for the weekly 5 km walk or run, come rain or shine. The route is dog friendly and children are most welcome. Set off from the Hermanus Forest on Camphill Road in Hemel-en-Aarde Valley, at 08:00.

■ Hermanus Country Market: A favourite among the locals, old and young. Four-legged family members are also welcome. You’ll find wholesome goodies, home-made crafts, local produce, beers and wine, speciality foods, coffee and live music. Next to the cricket field, Fairways Avenue, from 09:00 – 13:00.

■ Hermanuspietersfontein Food & Wine Market: Where local and international foodies

■ Lemm’s Corner Market: This popular Sunday market offers exclusive fine arts and crafts, locally manufactured clothing, accessories, home décor, skincare and body products, as well as speciality foods, coffee, cakes, craft beers, a wine bar and live music.

On the corner of Main & Harbour Roads, from 10:00 – 15:00.

Monday 19 March ■ 70th anniversary of the birth of Mikhail Baryshnikov: The second part of U3A Overberg’s short DVD course on Ballet is presented by Therina du Pisani and will highlight the famous male dancer, Michael Baryshnikov, who turned 70 this year. ‘Misha’, who also had a successful career as an actor on stage, cinema and television, is often cited

alongside Nijinsky, Nureyev and Vasiliev as one of the greatest ballet dancers in history. Born to Russian parents in Latvia in 1948, Baryshnikov danced as a guest artist with the National Ballet of Canada, before joining New York City Ballet and later the American Ballet Theatre. In the Catholic Church Hall, at 10:00.

■ Classic Bridge Club: The club gets together weekly for Duplicate Bridge. To join, contact Riekie on 072 230 9179. At Fernkloof Hall, every Monday at 13:00.

■ Hermanus Astronomy Centre: Join HAC for their monthly meeting where The Earth’s Magnetic Field and Possible Changes will be the topic discussed by Dr Pieter Kotze of SANSA. For more information, contact petermh@hermanus.co.za. In the Catholic Church Hall, at 19:00.

Tuesday 20 March ■ Russian History: Professor Wessel Visser will present the last lecture in U3A Overberg’s series on Russian History, entitled The Origins of the Communist Party in South Africa 1880-1920. In the Catholic Church Hall, at 10:00.

■ Spiders: Join Whale Coast Conservation for an informative talk on Spiders by Dr Vic HamiltonAttwell. Contact Anina Lee on 083 242 3295 or anina.wcc@gmail.com for more details. At The Green House on the R43, Vermont, at 17:30.

■ OnVerWag AGM: Community members are invited to attend the Onrus / Vermont Neighbourhood Watch AGM. Find more information on their Facebook page or send an email to theowl@onverwag.org.za. At the Dutch Reformed Church in Berg Street, Onrus, at 18:00.

Wednesday 21 March ■ Hermanus Bird Club: The guest speaker at the club’s monthly meeting is Christina Hagen, who will talk about New horisons for penguin conservation. For a donation, refreshments will be available after the talk. At Fernkloof Hall, at 18:30.

Village

The

EXPLORER EXPLORER

FOOD • WINE • NATURE

Elgin – a land of fruit, wine and people

T

he Elgin Valley is a land of verdant forests, lakes, vineyards and endless fruit orchards cradled by the mountain peaks of the Hottentots Holland range. As the largest single export fruit producing region in Southern Africa, Elgin is where 60% of the national apple crop is grown. However, a recent shift in economic focus has led to Elgin also becoming one of South Africa's most unique and successful wine regions, with the coolest climate of any wine region in the country.

Of the many varietals grown in the valley, special attention has been paid to Sauvignon Blanc, Chardonnay and Pinot Noir. Wine producers such as Spioenkop, Iona, Paul Cluver, Highlands Road, Almenkerk and Shannon Vineyards, to mention but a few, deliver some of the Western Cape’s highest quality wines.

Legend has it that the valley got its name from a local child called Elgine Herold, who was killed by a snakebite near the Palmiet River in the late 1800s. Her distraught father, with the support of the community, named the area Elgin in his daughter’s memory. A more plausible explanation is that the name was derived from the Glen Elgin farm, bought by the Molteno brothers in 1903 and named after their home town of Elgin in Scotland.

A portion of their farm was found to be most suitable for the erection of a new railway station and the Moltenos are said to have granted the land with the provision that the station be named ‘Elgin’. Apples, pears and plums were sent to Table Bay from this station for export and for many decades, it provided the main connection between the people and produce of the valley, and the outside world.

From modest beginnings farming vegetables, the Molteno brothers expanded by acquiring neighbouring properties and established the farming business that still bears their name today. They not only revolutionised the South African fruit farming industry, but were also influential in the development and upliftment of rural communities in the area. They eventually built up a vast farming enterprise over their lifetimes that spanned the valley, and left the farm in a trust that continues their charitable work to this day.

Interestingly, another pioneer of farming in the

area was a woman, Kathleen Murray. The cousin of the famous Molteno brothers, she made history in the 1920s by first becoming a successful apiarist (bee farmer), and then expanding her expertise into poultry, pig and fruit farming.

But even before the Moltenos arrived in the area, there was Sir Antonie Viljoen, after whom the Viljoen’s Pass was named, and who is regarded as the first commercial producer of deciduous fruit in the region. He was an Afrikaans medical doctor who graduated from Edinburgh University in Scotland and later became a senator in the Cape Parliament and was knighted in 1916.

In 1898 Viljoen bought a farm named Oak Valley Estate, where he not only planted the first deciduous fruit trees in the valley, but also decided to plant a substantial area of vineyard for wine grape production, followed by the commissioning of the first wine cellar in the Elgin valley in 1908. The cellar went out of production after World War II when fruit was in greater demand, but new vineyards were established in 1985 that have been producing award-winning wines for many years.

In 1966, on Applethwaite farm, the Franco-Italian immigrant Edmond Lombardi created and introduced to the market a 100% apple-juice beverage, free of additives and preservatives, known as Appletiser. The company is now owned and operated by SAB Miller and Appletiser continues to be served in top restaurants across the world along with premium Elgin wines.

A relatively new kid on the block is Koen Roose who named his winery Spioenkop after the hill on his farm, which represents a similar milestone to this Belgian winemaker as the famous Battle of Spioenkop fought during the Anglo-Boer War did in the history of the South African people.

Here Koen produces elegant cool-climate wines that he describes as “sexy and pure but at the same time unique, a little wild even”. But don’t take his word for it; come and experience it for yourself! During the month of March, Spioenkop wines can be tasted and discussed daily at the Wine Village.

- Proudly brought to you by Wine Village

10

13 - 19 March 2018

WCC initiates project to save our chameleons

B

ackground: Everybody seems to love chameleons, so there was no shortage of volunteers for the Whale Coast Conservation (WCC) Chameleon Relocation Pilot Project.

MY NEWS Environment THE

It is a sad fact that increasing urbanisation is uprooting and often killing wildlife that used to find a home in coastal habitats. Such is the case in the coastal areas in the Overstrand, where Cape Dwarf Chameleons occurred in abundance on undeveloped land. Many local residents were not even aware that they were there as their survival depends on going undetected by predators.

ecological tragedy in the making.

This is how the Chameleon Relocation Pilot Project was born. WCC’s Sheraine van Wyk proposed that the remaining chameleons in the area be relocated to a safer environment and that the survival success of the animals be monitored over an extended period to determine whether relocation is a viable option for these animals.

When a local enthusiast, Daphne Bayer, told WCC staff in April 2017 that there were many chameleons in parts of the Overstrand we seized the opportunity to go chameleon spotting with Daphne. The first area we visited was a chameleon paradise – about 70 chameleons were spotted.

Chameleons are best seen at night when they crawl up vegetation to sleep safe from their predators on the ground.

The vegetation doesn’t much matter as long as it’s the right diameter for their little feet to grasp easily. The rather invasive “dekriet” (Thamnochortus

Cape Dwarf Chameleon

insignis) is a favourite. And there the little “dragons” shine or, more precisely, reflect the artificial light.

Two days later, to general

PHOTO: Marion Zeegers

dismay, bulldozers flattened this area. But what about other open plots? Indeed they were all for sale or already sold for development. It was clear that there was a potential

The Project A project proposal was put to CapeNature to obtain a research permit to catch, transport, relocate and monitor the animals. A potential habitat was identified where the animals could be released – there had to be suitable vegetation and no resident chameleons. Since they are territorial, releasing chameleons into an area that’s already occupied would stress both the resident and the released animals. In addition the release area needed to be safe for volunteers to monitor at night.

The Method Groups of volunteers joined WCC’s staff over four evenings at the end of February to find at-risk chameleons. Children were eagle-eyed in spotting them by torch light. When a chameleon was spotted, a handler carefully cut the vegetation on which the animal was sitting and placed it in a container of vegetation to be carried to the recording station.

Each animal was carefully photographed and details recorded. As every chameleon is unique in its colour pattern and dorsal ridge, it is possible to use photo-ID to identify that animal again in subsequent monitoring. After processing, the chameleons were boxed up for transportation to the release site.

At the release site, the chameleons were transferred onto suitable vegetation at an appropriate distance from each other. The many babies could be placed on the same plant as they are born in clutches. Yes, Cape Chameleons have live births – in other words they are ovoviviparous. Chameleons can have two clutches of babies per year, but survival rate is very low.

In total 120 chameleons were

thus relocated.

Monitoring Survival Success Needless to say, the success of such an experiment has to be measured by the survival rate of the relocated animals. This means that the chameleons have to be found again, rephotographed and identified, and then the hard work of matching up photographs will start.

This monitoring process will commence this month, with teams of volunteers going out several times a month over a period of at least a year. It is gratifying that there are many chameleon enthusiasts who are excited to help save them.

This project emphasises the importance of conserving natural green spaces in urban areas for wildlife. Corridors of wildlife-friendly domestic gardens between the green spaces and conservation areas would be first prize.

You can help to Save a Chameleon Each chameleon costs WCC R2 010 to relocate and monitor its survival success. Please help us to help them. Contact sheraine.wcc@gmail.com

- Anina Lee, Whale Coast Conservation

Roadshow highlights plight of stranded turtle hatchlings Every year, thousands of loggerhead and leatherback turtles hatch on the beaches of northern KwaZulu-Natal. Many hatchlings - often adversely affected by the cold weather between April and August inevitably wash-up and become stranded on our beaches. It is alarming though that without the necessary help, stranded loggerhead turtle hatchlings have no chance of survival.

The turtle conservation team from Two Oceans Aquarium (TOA) in Cape Town recently did a road show to establish drop off-points along the coastline and present a brief on what you can do to assist these turtles. The team visited the South African Shark Conservancy (SASC) in the Old Harbour, Hermanus, and the African Penguin and Seabird Sanctuary (APSS) near Gansbaai on Friday, 2 March, where guests learnt more about the work

some are not only suffering from hypothermia but are also injured and require treatment.

• What to do if you find a juvenile turtle: •

• done at the Two Oceans Aquarium to aid stranded hatchlings.

As the winter months approach the incidence of turtle strandings increases. Juvenile turtles (mainly loggerheads) are swept down from the northern coast of KwaZulu-Natal, where they hatch, in the mighty Agulhas Current and are washed ashore by stormy seas.

They are often in a weak condition, having been exposed to cold water, and are suffering from dehydration.

The Aquarium rehabilitates these turtles in preparation for their release back into the warm ocean. The turtles range in size from 25 g up to 80 kg.

Rehabilitation can last more than a year, depending on the needs of each individual, as

•

Do not put the turtle back in the water. Being temperate-water animals, sea turtles don’t fare well in our icy Cape waters and it is crucial that they get help as quickly as possible.

Turtles need to stay warm and dry. The first thing to do is to remove it from the water / beach and place it onto a towel in a dry container like a 5 litre ice cream tub with breathing holes.

Keep it at room temperature to warm up slowly. These turtles are most likely suffering from hypothermia, which makes them weak – in most

•

•

instances they are so weak that they cannot lift their heads.

Do not put water or sand in the container. Turtles breathe air, just like us, and if a turtle cannot lift its head out of the water, it cannot breathe and will drown.

Make a note of exactly where, when and at what time the turtle was found.

The drop-off point for juvenile turtles found along the Gansbaai coast is the African Penguin and Seabird Sanctuary in Kleinbaai.

Contact their rescue line number: 072 598 7117 or penguin@apss.org.za. In Hermanus, the South African Shark Conservancy in the Old Harbour is the drop-off point. SASC can be contacted on 028 312 302902 or meag@ sharkconservancy.org.

Alternatively, call the Environmental Management Section of Overstrand Municipality on 028 316 3724 (o/h) or the Emergency Control Room on 028 312 2400 (a/h).

During after hours, you could also contact Tarron Dry on 083 366 9490 or Penelope Aplon on 072 394 9841. The Hermanus Fire Station could also be used as a drop-off point.

The Overstrand Municipality, in collaboration with the SASC and APSS, will ensure that the turtles are temporarily housed until they can be moved to the Two Oceans Aquarium where they will be rehabilitated until they are strong and healthy. They will then be sent to uShaka Sea World in Durban where they are released into the warmer waters off the KwaZulu-Natal coast.

For more information, visit www.aquarium.co.za

11

13 - 19 March 2018

A Man for all Seasons Elaine Davie

I

n a world ruled by fad diets and quick fixes for our ailments, Daniel Jardim embraces an alternative way of achieving a healthy life – by simply living in harmony with nature. After years of travel, study, and a wealth of personal and professional experience gained over the course of 20 years, this vegetarian chef, nutritionist, wellness coach, leader of retreats, author, teacher, and proponent of mindful meditation, has made Kleinmond his home.

Describing the town as an “undiscovered gem”, Daniel goes on to say: “I love the unpretentiousness of Kleinmond. And it’s set in the most spectacularly beautiful surroundings. What more could you want?”

A love of food is what started Daniel’s journey of discovery. He grew up with his three siblings in Johannesburg as first generation South Africans of Portuguese parents, both of them foodies of note. His mother, Mimi, became a chef extraordinaire, the author of a number of popular Portuguese cooking books and head of the Jardim Cookery School, so the children grew up in a fog of mouthwatering aromas from the kitchen.

“None of us was actually sat down and taught to cook,” remembers Daniel, “but we sort of absorbed it by osmosis, and we were all actively involved; each of us had our own jobs. Mine was collecting the herbs my mother needed from the garden. I loved that, picking them fresh, smelling the fragrance.”

At the age of 13, Daniel shocked his meat- and fish-loving family by announcing that he was going to be a vegetarian. “That, of course, meant that I had to learn to prepare vegetarian dishes for myself – and that, too, was the start of my lifelong adventure with food. I’m embarrassed to say this, but when I was in Grade 12, I was the first boy in my school ever to have won the first prize in Home Economics!”

By the time he left school Daniel had only one thought in mind: to follow his two greatest passions, music and alternative healing therapies. So, after a brief stint as a DJ in Cape Town, he headed for London where the music scene was hot, he could party a lot and at the same time study herbalism, massage therapy and nutrition. While studying, he managed a Natural Pharmacy, acting as a nutrition

Vegetarian chef, nutritionist, author and wellness coach Daniel Jardim has made Kleinmond his home. His cookbooks include The Cake the Buddha ate and Retreat - the joy of conscious eating. consultant. He also worked in restaurants, including a chain of Japanese restaurants, thereby keeping his love of food alive and experimenting with new styles of cooking, like sushi.

After 11 years, however, his life and work in London came to an abrupt and shocking end when he was assaulted, his spinal cord partially severed, leaving him paralysed down one side of his body. “That was a serious test for me,” he grimaces. “Either I had to prove that holistic medicine could work, by healing myself, or I had to turn away from it for good.”

was always a means to another end – holistic well-being.” That notwithstanding, all the recipes in the collaborative Buddhist Retreat Centre book, The Cake the Buddha ate are Daniel’s. This was followed in 2014 by his own cookery book, Retreat – the joy of conscious eating, earning him the affectionate title of ‘South Africa’s most beloved vegetarian chef’.

Through sheer determination, over a period of more than a year, Daniel proved it could work. By then, he was back in South Africa and working at the Buddhist Retreat Centre in Ixopo, KwaZuluNatal. He was asked to help out as a cook in the kitchen and his food was such an instant hit that he became a permanent fixture.

However, Daniel had reached a turning point when he left the Buddhist Centre. All the strands seemed to be coming together and it was with great enthusiasm that he took a step back from cooking and launched himself into wellness coaching. “It’s important to take every opportunity to augment well-being, which could include meditation, dietary adjustments, and nutritional supplements,” he points out.

“Nothing is prescriptive or judgemental and it’s not all dead serious stuff either; fun is just as important as anything else.”

“That was a real Aha! moment for me,” he recalls. “I realised that food could be used as a tool to learn more about our bodies and nutrition, and as a link between ourselves and the world around us, between us and the seasons, for example. Although I had been thrust into the role of a foodie, it was never food for food’s sake; it

Daniel currently coaches clients from all over South Africa via Skype, but for those closer at hand, face-to-face sessions are, of course, always an option. “You can’t imagine how rewarding it is seeing people get better,” he smiles. “You see someone start in a state of complete imbalance and week by week you see them

improving – that’s what it means to be ‘in service’ to people. I love it when they feel well enough to let go of me and manage their lives successfully on their own.”

His weekend seasonal retreats have become another major source of joy and satisfaction to both Daniel and the participants.

As he points out, our bodies change with the seasons and so do the plants around us. Designed to provide a comprehensive guide to staying healthy by living closer to the rhythms of nature, the retreats incorporate cooking – of course – as well as gentle exercise in the form of Chi Kung, and mindful meditation.

“Our time on earth is so precious, that we have to make the most of it,” he says. “People seem to think that improving oneself involves punishment, like being on a boot camp, but these retreats are anything but: they’re all about lightness and gentleness and having fun.”

Daniel Jardim’s next local seasonal (Autumn) retreat will take place at the Temenos Retreat Centre in McGregor from 21 – 23 April. For more information about this and any of his other activities visit his website www.honest-togoodness.co.za or contact him at daniel@solarpolarity.co.za.

12

13 - 19 March 2018

Hermanus Old Town is good to go

A

s staunch supporters of the Hermanus Old Town (HOT) initiative, three business owners in the CBD have come up with a novel way to breathe new life into the historical centre of town. Conveniently situated across from Lemm’s Corner, Health@The Village Shop and Deli Affair are practically neighbours and have recently launched a sameday delivery service called Goods2Go. Passersby may have noticed the e-bike parked in front of Deli Affair on the corner of Main Road and Long Street, which is explained by the involvement of a third partner in this joint venture – Dean Gillatt, who opened GoBike Hermanus with partner Zunette Mulder last year.

Initially they were based in a shop next to Savannah Café (now Brasserie South), but have since relocated to Precision Cycles in High Street. Dean has agreed to sponsor the e-bike for this unique venture.

By putting their heads together, Hamish Hofmeyr of Health@The Village Shop, who is also the chair of HOT, Ronald Dettke of Deli Affair and Dean decided to initiate a delivery service that is sorely lacking in Hermanus. Hamish and his wife Amanda took over Health@The Village Shop last year and have already given their premises, in one of the oldest heritage cottages in Hermanus, a fresh, new look.

In addition to stocking an extensive range of health shoe brands and health products that include supplements, women’s beauty and skin care products, organic kiddies’ products, natural household cleaning products, and even organic pet products, they also offer fresh, organic veggies.

“Because some customers said they were experiencing problems in finding parking in the CBD, we already introduced a delivery service at the beginning of the year so that their purchases could be delivered to their doorstep,” says Amanda. And with their new Goods2Go same-day

What’s Cooking RESTAURANT NEWS Hedda Mittner delivery service, it will be easier than ever before to call in your order and have it delivered to you at the same price you would have paid in the shop. Yes, that’s right – there is no extra charge!

Diagonally across the road from Health@The Village Shop, another husband-and-wife team, Deli Affair’s Ronald and Doris Dettke, who previously owned and managed a guest farm near Port Alfred and now live in Stanford, have also done much to brighten this part of the CBD. With counters that open onto the pavement, chairs and tables outside and in the delightful courtyard at the back of the shop, and artistic murals that grace the walls, Deli Affair has given this part of town a decidedly European flavour.

In collaboration with La Trattoria and Don Gelato based in Stanford, this well-stocked delicatessen offers over 30 assorted cheeses from both European and local producers, an equally impressive variety of cured meats, original Italian Gelato, freshly roasted coffee, and beers and wine, both local and imported. Also on the menu are delicious home-baked cakes, pastries and bread, and freshly prepared pasta dishes and platters.

Among their suppliers are Erwin’s and Richard Bosman for cured meats, Belnori, Dalewood and Klein River for cheeses, Blue Sky Organics for olive oil and Afrikoa for Bean to Bar African Chocolate.

And now you don’t even have to stir from your desk when you need your caffeine kick, a bite to eat, a platter for a business meeting, or something to take home for dinner.

All three businesses share a common goal of going green and reducing their carbon footprint, which makes the e-bike the perfect vehicle. For those who don’t know, an electric bicycle has an integrated electric motor to assist the rider’s pedal power and uses rechargeable batteries. It gets you from A to B in comfort because it allows you to travel further without getting as tired.

It’s a Deli Affair Delicatessen on the corner of Main Road and Long Street has brought a decidedly European flavour to the CBD.

If you haven’t tried it, I suggest you hurry down to High Street and hire one for a great cycling ex-perience.

They also have fat bikes and mountain bikes to rent, for half days or full days, at reasonable rates.

Visit www.goods2go.co.za to find a complete list of items that are only two clicks from your door. To add to this convenience, you can even pay online. Alternatively, you can call Ronald on 072 934 5304. Deliveries can be done to any destination in Greater Hermanus and don’t worry if your purchase is too large for the ebike’s container – they also have a tuk-tuk and a bakkie at the ready.

“We plan to expand by including trade deliveries in the near future,” says Ronald. “We’ll be going around to various businesses, including restaurants, in the coming weeks to invite them to join us in this venture by adding their goods to our list of items on the website.”

Until then, anyone is welcome to contact Goods2Go if they need an urgent delivery. It does not need to be a specific item on their list and could be anything from a child who forgot a school book at home, to a DIY enthusiast who is in need of some screws – Goods2Go is at your service!

In collaboration with Health@The Village Shop and GoBike Hermanus, Deli Affair now offers a unique same-day delivery service in Hermanus.

Deli Affair now has a cosy and colourful courtyard where customers can enjoy their gourmet selection of deli products.

For more information on the three local brands that are bringing this new service to the public, visit: It’s a Deli Affair at 125 Main Road, c/o Long Street. Tel: 072 934 5304. www.deliaffair.co.za Health@The Village Shop at 82 Main Road. Tel: 028 312 1308. www.healthhermanus.africa GoBike at 20 High Street. www.gobikehermanus.com

13 - 19 March 2018

13

14

13 - 19 March 2018

15

13 - 19 March 2018

Lifestyle Framing is your one-stop design shop

L

ifestyle Framing in Dirkie Uys Street, right next to Dunya Cake Delights, has been taken over by new owners who have turned this established framing studio into a family affair.

At the helm are Johan and Marié Vorster and Marié’s son, Wesley van As. Their assistant, Jean-Mari Bothma, is practically family, too, having previously worked with Marié at Northcliff House College. Marié will be leaving the school, where she’s been the administrator for seven years, to join the team ull time at the end of the month.

“Johan is a business broker and when he told me that Lifestyle was for sale, we immediately knew it would be the ideal family business for us,” says Marié. Her son Wesley studied graphic design at CTU Training Solutions in Potchefstroom and has gained extensive experience in all facets of design work.

Jean-Mari Bothma, Marié Vorster and Wesley van As at Lifestyle Framing Studio.

Wesley specialises in T-shirt and sublimation printing, including items such as cushions, tiles, mugs, coasters, key holders, and mouse pads.

He also designs corporate identities, business cards, adverts, brochures, wedding

cards and function invites.

A talented photographer and videographer, he is also the second shooter at a locally based videography and photo-graphy company, CFFP. Lifestyle is clearly much more than just a framing studio, although the team is looking forward to building on the firm reputation for expert framing established by the previous owner, Mark Senekal, who saw framing as an art form in its own right. They have a wide selection of frames to choose from, including box frames, block

mounts and shadow boxes, and also specialise in mirror framing. Anything from photographs, certificates and memorabilia to works of art will receive their personalised attention. They also do repair work and offer second-hand frames for sale.

“We love the creative energy in the shop,” says Marié. “Nothing is routine and every day brings something new.”

Find Lifestyle Framing at 7 Dirkie Uys Street, Hermanus or contact them on 028 312 1507.

- Hedda Mittner

The SA JKA Overstrand team (juniors and seniors) competed at the Western Province JKA Championship on Saturday 24 February in Milnerton, Cape Town. After the competition, the members of the Western Province team were selected. They will compete at the National Championship on 25-26 May at the Standard Bank Arena in Johannesburg, after which the SA team will be selected to compete at the Africa Cup Tournament in Johannesburg on 1 September. Sensei Ronnie Knott, 6th Dan, said after the Western Province tournament that he is very proud of his students. From left: (front) A Brummer, W Britz, G Stuart, J Bryant-Mostert, R van Huyssteen, C Gruss, G Walton, N van Rhyn; (middle) E van der Westhuizen, F Fynlason, M Davel, J Bezuidenhout, L Gruss, J Streicher, M Krupski, C Saayman, T Burger, M van Zyl; (back) M Maroudas, G Maroudas, S Qotyana, Sensei Ronnie, C Pearce, C Haskell, K Hunter, N Gillion. Absent: G Maroudas, S Qotyana, H Botha, D Botha.

PHOTO: Taylum Meyer

16

13 - 19 March 2018

Dream big, says Professor from Hawston degrees with a Higher Education Diploma and masters degree in Clinical Psychology from the University of Cape Town.

Pia Nänny

O

ne of the challenges for a person who comes from Hawston is transcending the perceptions that people have formed about people born and raised in this coastal town.

These perceptions often concern teenage pregnancies, overcrowding, poverty-ridden homes and of course, abalone poaching and gang warfare.

“We need to hang on to the good things that come from Hawston too,” says Prof Ronelle Carolissen, Vice-dean of the Faculty of Education at Stellenbosch University and the first professor to be produced by Hawston Primary.

Ronelle recently delivered her inaugural lecture to a crowd that included family, friends, colleagues and people from her home town, including Mr Julius Swart, current headmaster of Hawston Primary, and several other teachers. Ronelle’s Grade 5 teacher, Mrs Alma Bucchianeri, as well as her Grade 11 and 12 Biology teacher from Harold Cressy High School, Mr Lionel Adriaan, also attended the event.

“It was a very special occasion,” says Ronelle. “Professionally, because it is the culmination of many years of hard work.

Given the statistics on the number of non-white, female professors in South

She obtained her doctoral degree from Stellenbosch University (SU) where she has worked since 2002, first in the Department of Psychology and later at the Department of Educational Psychology in the Faculty of Education. As a lecturer, Ronelle aims to create an enabling environment in the classroom, so that any student – no matter who they are and where they come from – can participate. “My aim is to teach in a socially just and inclusive way,” she emphasises.

Prof Ronelle Carolissen with Prof Wim de Villiers, Rector and ViceChancellor of Stellenbosch University, and Prof Yusef Waghid, acting Dean of the Faculty of Education.

Africa, I’ve achieved a remarkable thing. But also personally, if I think of where I come from and about everyone who played a role in my life.”

In the late seventies, when Ronelle completed her primary school education, there was no high school in Hawston. Learners’ options were to drop out of school, risk taking the often non-functional bus to Caledon to attend Swartberg Secondary School or to move in with friends or family closer to the city to complete their education in Cape Town.

As the children of two teachers who attached significant value to education, Ronelle and her three siblings all matriculated from Harold Cressy High School in Cape Town. “My parents were very involved in the Teachers’ League of South Africa and their motto was: ‘Let us live for our children’.”

After school, Ronelle obtained a BA degree with English and Psychology as majors, as well as an honours degree in Psychology from the University of KwaZulu-Natal. She followed these

As she prepared to deliver her inaugural lecture, Ronelle reflected on the importance of supportive parents, family and friends and the context of the community you come from. She is hesitant to call herself a role model as she acknowledges the support and encouragement she received.

Not only did her maternal grandmother act as a role model by being one of the first teachers produced by Wesley College in Salt River, but her parents – both teachers at Hawston Primary – also actively encouraged their children to pursue tertiary training.

Her father, Hennie Carolissen, who was

headmaster of Hawston Primary until his death in 1982, used to say that the fish in the sea will disappear one day and that people should qualify themselves for other jobs too.

“It is important to surround yourself with people who have your best interests at heart. That person does not necessarily have to be a family member. It might be a teacher or a sport coach or someone else in the community,” says Ronelle.

Her message to the young people of Hawston is to dream big and to find ways to make their dreams reality. “You will have setbacks but with support you will be able to overcome them. Spread your wings and see what the world has to offer, even if you would like to settle in Hawston eventually.”

Ronelle’s mother, Katherine, now 89, as well as several other family members, still live in Hawston and she tries to visit the town at least once a month.

Mr Julius Swart, headmaster of Hawston Primary, is very proud of this former learner’s achievements. “Prof Carolissen comes from a small fishermen’s village where poverty and unemployment are rife, but this didn’t hold her back. As educators we want to teach our learners that there is a world beyond this town and that they can be successful if they put their mind to it.”

17

13 - 19 March 2018

Invasive plant species are not water-wise Much has been written in the last few months regarding water-wise gardens to save water. But the invasion of other plant species is destroying the environment of the Overberg. They are also a fire hazard and use much more water than indigenous plants, writes local botanical experts, MIKE AUSTIN and BRUCE BAYER.

T

he most common invasive weeds in the Overberg are Port Jackson, myrtle, rooikrans, pine and, to some extent, eucalyptus. These are all listed as category 1a or 1b in this area and have to be removed from public and private land, in terms of the National Environmental Management: Biodiversity Act. It is therefore illegal to have these and other listed weeds on your property.

The methods of removing them are also specified in the regulations. They are all Australian imports and are a real problem in the Overberg, as a 2-year old tree can produce thousands of seeds which spread onto adjoining plots.

Port Jackson (Acacia saligna) Port Jackson is by far the most wide-spread invader. This is an evergreen tree and can grow up to between 3 and 7 metres. The leaves are blue-green through to bright green. It has bright yellow globe-shaped flowers from August to November. It develops brown pods with

THE

NEWS

MY Home

hardened whitish margins.

Extensive invasion has occurred in the last decade within the Overberg built up areas and its surrounds. This is a major fire hazard, with a tentimes more intense burn than fynbos, which the Port Jackson is replacing.

Removal methods for Port Jackson The removal of young seedlings is the easiest and cheapest way, leaving nothing to cart away. They must be pulled out or cut off just below ground level. The root tends to

go straight down when young. If the base of the plant is not removed, it branches profusely. Within a year it will regrow much quicker because the root system is left intact.

With the profuse branching, the infestation is five or six times worse, because of the multiple branching from the base. These branched stems are much more difficult to remove and costs of removal will therefore skyrocket.

Bigger specimens have to be cut off close to the ground and painted, and not sprayed with herbicide such as Garlon

or Confront immediately after cutting. The spraying of chemicals onto the stump will cause damage to surrounding plants and uses as much as 10 times the amount of expensive chemicals, which then severely pollutes the environment.

Australian myrtle (Leptospernum laevigatum) This is the second most invasive species in the Overberg.

This is a large denselybranched, untidy, spreading small tree up to 8 metres high.

It has dull grey-greenish leathery leaves and has solitary

white flowers from August to October with green fruit which turns yellow and then grey.

The removal of this species is more complicated because of difficult access to the base to chop it down. It also roots from branches touching the ground. All stems need to be removed as well as any exposed roots. Large stems should be painted with herbicide.

Follow-up treatment within a year is very important.

Eucalyptus There are many invasive plants in this genus and the Spider gum, Eucalyptus conferruminata, is the most common in the Overberg. It can grow into a large tree with smooth whitish grey bark.

Adult leaves are elliptical and 9 X 2.5cm in size, glossy and light green. It has yellowgreen flowers in spring and summer. The seed capsule is greyish-brown, 50 to 80mm long. It can be a real danger close to buildings as large branches often break off.

The spreading of these plants is not a great problem in the Overberg and mature trees can be left in place. Young trees should be cut down and the stumps

treated with herbicide.

Pines There are a number of different invasive pines such as cluster, slash and patula. They are spreading into the Fynbos and should be controlled.

Mature trees can be left but young growth should be controlled. They are easy to remove: simply cut them down. The stump does not even need to be treated, as the growing points are at the ends of the branches.

Other species Other declared invasive tree species e.g. bottlebrush, Brazilian pepper and Spanish broom are present in the Overberg but are not problem species at this stage. There are also grasses and herbs that are seriously problematic, such as Paterson’s curse, kikuyu and buffalo grass.

If you are not sure about a particular plant, Bruce Bayer can assist you with identification and the best removal advice. If you need agricultural, ecological or building planning advice, contact Michael Austin or go to his website www.greenheart.co.za. For more information send an email to mike@greenheart.co.za

18

13 - 19 March 2018

Science and Nature in Balance

H

ealth and happiness is your birth right but how many people ever really experience optimal health?

The absence of illness does not necessarily mean good health.

Many people go through life without ever experiencing the joy of feeling on top of the world – being perfectly happy with all aspects of their lives: physical appearance, including skin, body shape, weight and muscle tone; fitness; mental emotional and spiritual wellbeing. In their quest they rush from pillar to post trying to find different service providers for all their needs.

Would it not be wonderful if there could be a place where all their needs can be professionally addressed in one space in a holistic manner? That is the goal of Dr Arien van der Merwe, who has been practicing natural integrative medicine since 1995 and runs Ariani Health Solutions in Pretoria with co-owner Anri van Rooyen.

Now Dr Arien is bringing her expertise to Hermanus. Since the beginning of the year, she has visited Hermanus regularly

THE

MY Health

NEWS to present talks and workshops, and will now also be consulting at Dr Michelle Emett’s practice at Refine Antiageing and Laser Clinic in The Village.

“Our approach goes deeper than only trying to take care of the body and its symptoms,” says Dr Arien. “We dig a little deeper to include the mind and emotions. Illness and disease stem from this deep level that is often not visible when using regular diagnostic methods. With so many tools available, it is easier to support the body to do what it actually wants to do: to heal, find balance and return to homeostasis. We are enthusiastic about health education and ongoing research to help you take responsibility for your own health and wellbeing.”

Dr Arien van der Merwe

(MBChB ASCHP MISMA) is a medical doctor who embraces natural, holistic and integrative medicine. She is a specialist holistic counsellor, incorporating mind, body and soul in her treatment protocols. She is also a medical specialist in workplace wellness, owns the Weight Control Clinic started by Dr Gauché in 1974, teaches stress management and relaxation techniques and emphasises youthful living and longevity.

She is an experienced public speaker, facilitator and trainer, and the author of several books and training manuals.

Her books include Health & Happiness, Stress Solutions, Managing Diabetes and Metabolic Syndrome, and Herbal Remedies. She also developed a number of accredited online health and wellness courses. At Ariani

Health Solutions, their holistic approach comprises Natural Integrative Medicine, Weight Control Clinic, Youthful Living, Workplace Wellness and PlayFunFitness.

Holistic Medicine Defined The term ‘holistic’ (from the root word ‘whole’) medicine, describes therapies that consider the individual as a whole person, part of a bigger system. Therefore, instead of treating only the symptoms of an illness or disease, as in mainstream medicine (allopathy), an individual’s overall physical, mental, emotional, spiritual, social, occupational and environmental wellbeing will be considered before recommending specific treatments and health coaching protocols.

A practitioner with a holistic approach will treat the symptoms of illness, while considering the underlying cause. Holistic medicine also attempts to prevent illness or disease, by emphasising optimal health and wellbeing. The body’s systems are seen as interdependent parts of the person’s whole being. The

Dr Arien van der Merwe, a medical doctor who practices natural integrative medicine, will be visiting Hermanus from 27 - 29 March. physical body’s natural state is one of health, therefore illness or disease indicates an imbalance in the body’s systems and stable inner milieu (homeostasis).

Holistic therapies tend to emphasise lifestyle, a return to normal physiological and biochemical functioning, emotional release work and avoidance of chemical substances that might harm and contaminate the body.

The tools and techniques used, are non-invasive and support the body’s return to

its natural state of health.

For more information, visit www.drarien.co.za Dr Arien will be in Hermanus to present a talk on Youthful Living on Wednesday, 28 March and a Practical Stress Management workshop on Saturday 31 March. Both events will take place at The Classroom Restaurant in The Village. Dr Arien will also be available for consultation from 27 – 29 March at Refine.

Contact 028 316 4122 to make an appointment.

19

13 - 19 March 2018

Refine and reset your ageing clock

H

ow often, as an aesthetic practitioner, do I have patients coming into the clinic looking for an instant fix-me-up? It’s funny how life works. It always seems that when we have the time, we don’t have the moolas; and yet when we have the money we don’t have time for pampering.

Holiday season is the perfect time to get those aesthetic treatments you need. Doctor, I’m here for two weeks, fix me!

Same-day, quick-fix medical aesthetic treatments can range from wrinkle prevention with Botox™; restoration of texture and tone with IPL (Intense Pulsed Light); replacing volume loss with the Liquid Face Lift and lastly, skin tightening with CO² gas, skin needling, radiofrequency or even the OneStitch-Lift.

There are two types of ageing of the skin which leads to loose or lax skin: "true ageing” due to chronological age, and “photo ageing”, due to the toxic effects of cumulative sun exposure or other environmental toxins.

The two types of ageing manifest themselves in slightly different ways. In true ageing, the skin produces less collagen and elastin. This process is accelerated by sun exposure, making the skin older before its time. Lax skin can be further accentuated by having one or more children (oops!); or sudden weight loss (aah!).

extrinsic ageing, less collagen is produced and gravity takes its toll!

Have people asked you recently if you are tired or not feeling well? When you look at yourself in the mirror, you see creases on either side of your mouth and a little sag in the skin along the jaw line. Your skin is subject to the ravages of the sun, gravity and ageing; it's starting to sag and it's becoming noticeable.

Most people see that they are looking older but do not recognise that volume loss is the reason that their face is beginning to “sag”. Loss of volume is due to losing fat in the face as well as the fact that our facial bones are shrinking with age.

When losing volume in the mid face, a “bull dog” look starts to develop, a hollowing effect around the eyes that

accentuates dark eye circles, puffiness and excess skin.

Traditionally, surgical facelifts have been used to tighten skin and muscle and hence reduce sagging, but surgery cannot restore volume loss.

Those who will not opt for the knife, can opt for the wellknown “liquid facelift”. This is a facial contouring procedure that involves the use of Botox™ and FDA approved dermal fillers around the face.

Liquid Facelift This “injectable” facelift has been making a huge impact in the aesthetic field by creating a plumper, more youthful face and addressing concerns such as volume loss, folds and wrinkles. By placing gel filler into specific areas of concern, and shaping it by massage, we can subtly restore those cheeks

and lips that once were, and lift the areas around the mouth.

Botox on the other hand, will give a quick relaxation of muscles of facial expression which are producing wrinkles.

These muscles are usually overactive, such as a frown, eye muscles or forehead.

Effects are seen in four days and should last 4 – 6 months. If you keep up your Botox regimen, we aim to only do the treatment twice yearly. In the words of George Bernard Shaw: “Youth is wasted on the young.”

(The rest of us use Botox and Fillers!)

Sagging jawline Sagging skin and loss of elasticity, is an additional problem of ageing which causes the loss of a defined and sculpted jawline. Due to intrinsic end

Previously, there were very few alternatives to surgical procedures. Now, with new technologies such as nonsurgical tightening devices which use either infra-red light, CO² gas, skin needling or radiofrequency, sagging facial and neck skin can be addressed as early as the twenties. This is when the skin has the ability to rejuvenate.

A more defined jawline and cheekbones and a brow lift are now possible with no downtime! Most treatments give an immediate lift that can last for months.

One-stitch-lift More invasive, but considered minimally invasive in comparison to surgery is the “Onestitch-lift”. Fast gaining popularity, this procedure produces actual lift in sagging skin. It can be used in many areas of the face to give a “quick mini face lift”. It is done under a dot of local anaesthetic into the skin, followed by a thread, inserted and then pulling the skin up towards the ear, to lift the lower area of the face.

The procedure takes about 45 minutes. No cuts, no general anaesthetic and no huge hospital bills. The stitch stimulates your own collagen to form. As the stitch dissolves (over 18 months), your natural

collagen holds the lift in place (up to 3 – 5 years). Instant results with an on-going lifting effect, over time.

Skin discolouration The skin’s texture and colour changes dramatically with ageing and superficial “redness” (caused by tiny blood vessels or capillaries), and sun or “liver” spots become visible, especially in sun-exposed areas.

With medical photo rejuvenation, IPL devices and advanced resurfacing procedures such as chemical peels and laser resurfacing, any patient can benefit from pigmentation improvement. The new concept today is to start with nonsurgical treatments at an early age to avoid or postpone the ageing process for as long as possible.

REFINE offers numerous antiageing and non-surgical procedures that can help you in the quest for a more youthful appearance!

We assess your ageing concerns and do a complimentary consultation with a customized plan depending on your budget and expectations. By combining these different non-surgical procedures and cosmeceuticals, one is able to reset the “ageing clock” – turning your Sag to Fab!

– Dr Michelle Emett

20

13 - 19 March 2018

Start banging the drums for Global Challenge

T

he second edition of The Global Challenge – an international women’s golfing event in aid of charity – was launched on Sunday 11 March to the beat of the #BangTheDrum song composed by the popular South African band Mango Groove, exclusively for The Global Challenge.

The Global Challenge, which will take place from 9 to 11 November 2018 at the Hermanus Golf Club, has a unique match format which sees professional women golfers compete in a Northern Hemisphere versus Southern Hemisphere derby, all for a good cause.

Walton Trophy in the Southern Hemisphere. All pro players are eligible for selection and the teams will be announced in due course.

For the first time, a disabled athlete will join the ablebodied team players. The Global Challenge is proud to call Paralympian tennis and table tennis gold medallist Monique Kalkman their Global Ambassador.

True to The Global Challenge’s ethos of inclusion and raising awareness and funds for those less fortunate, it is Monique’s goal to get golf onto the Paralympic sporting calendar.

The prestigious Monique Kalkman Ambassador Challenge will be preceding The Global Challenge 2018.

In the inaugural event held in February 2017, captain Nora Angehrn (Switzerland) led Team North to victory against Team South, headed by captain Laurette Maritz (South Africa).

The Global Challenge’s philosophy is firmly rooted in ‘giving’.

Both captains are looking forward to the rematch and Team South will be hoping to keep the magnificent Ralph

“The sole aim of the event is to unite players, corporate sponsors and the general public with the collaborative

focus on social upliftment,” says one of the organisers, Tania Fourie.

“Thanks to the generosity of all involved, The Global Challenge creates opportunities that will leave a legacy for the future. Through the worldwide #BangTheDrum campaign we seek to raise funds globally to empower disadvantaged communities in order to effect sustainable change. We believe in inspiring everyone to be the best they can be regardless of their socio-economic status.”

The charities that will benefit from The Global Challenge in 2018 are the Full Tummy Fund, as well as Just Care Hermanus, Overstrand Association for persons with Disabilities (OAPD) and Learn to Earn.

Every shot made during this event is done to raise money for charity through the #BangTheDrum pledge campaign. People can pledge (donate) through the Back A Buddy

The Ulysses Motorcycle Association of South Africa: Cape Town Chapter attended the Biker’s Brunch hosted by The Global Challenge at Dutchies Restaurant at Grotto Beach. Their Global Ambassador Monique Kalkman arrived at Dutchies with the bikers, riding pillion on Jerry Middleton’s (National Sales Manager for The Global Challenge and a member of the Ulysses Cape Town Chapter) bike. Bikers each donated R100 and received a branded bandana.

PHOTO: Taylum Meyer platform. Find the link on www.theglobalchallenge.co.za The Global Challenge was

launched with a Bikers’ Brunch on Sunday morning as well as a sundowner function at

Dutchies, during which the #BangTheDrum song was officially unveiled.

13 - 19 March 2018

21

Championship breed show a first for Hermanus

On Saturday 10 March, the Whale Coast Kennel Club hosted their Championship Breed Show at Hermanus High School, with the Overberg Kennel Club Show following that same afternoon. The show was a dogdom first for Hermanus and many competitors from all over South Africa came through with their dogs to compete. There were approximately 300 dogs representing over 62 different breeds in seven separate groups: Terrier, Toy, Hunting, Working, Sporting, Non-Sporting, Herding and Hound. In each breed, the male dogs were judged first, followed by the females in order of their classes which normally go according to age. A winner was then selected in each class and called back to compete for title of Best Champion for each breed. At the final judging all the breed champions competed against each other for the title of Best in Show. On the photo above the Australian Shepherds are put through their paces. The dogs were judged on a number of aspects such as movement, poise, appearance and attitude according to each breed’s standard.

PHOTO: Taylum Meyer, Titanium Photography

(From left) Warren Sim, Colby Gilmour and Tammy Gilmour with their dogs Striker and Jackson from Cape Town. Jackson won first place for the overall Puppy in the show.

Kickboxing delivers knock-out performances The Western Cape Kickboxing Championship was hosted for the first time in Hermanus on Saturday 10 March in the gymnasium at Hermanus High School. There were 160 participants that competed from five districts: Eden, West Coast, Cape Winelands, Cape Town and the Overberg. The day was a huge success with everything running smoothly and supporters of the competitors filling the school’s hall. The South African Kickboxing Championship in Pretoria will take place at the beginning of May this year. Twelve-yearold Johannes Potgieter, a home schooler from Hermanus (Overberg Kickboxing) delivered a hard blow to his competitor’s chest during the championship.

PHOTO: Taylum Meyer

22

13 - 19 March 2018

PEDAL TO THE MEDAL This group of Hermanus cyclists gathered at Market Square on Friday afternoon before departing for the world-famous Cape Town Cycle Tour (CTCT) that took place on Sunday, 11 March. This was the 40th edition of the biggest timed bicycle race in the world, previously known as The Argus Tour. There to wish one another luck on this gruelling race of over 100 km were, from left: Paul Martin, John Thompson, 13-year-old Christiaan de Wet Jr and his father, Christiaan Sr, Charl van Heerden, Angelo Ford, Paulette van den Bosch, Jan Combrinck, Justin Muir, Henk Lombard, Selwyn Gill, Jacqui Jackson, Letitia Botha and Keith Kenyon. Some of these riders are CTCT veterans and have competed in this illustrious cycle race numerous times – it would be Letitia’s 10th race, and the eight time that Charl and Selwyn have competed. Others who were taking part in their first CTCT event included Paulette, Justin, Jan, Keith, Paul and young Christiaan.

PHOTO: Hedda Mittner

23

13 - 19 March 2018

Best club championships, best course, best champs

G

reetings again to one and all. Wow, what a week it’s been! We have just wrapped up our 2018 Club Championships here at Hermanus Golf Club and it was a fantastic event. This year was unprecedented as we were over subscribed for the first time ever. Normally it is a struggle to get participants to play the 36 hole medal tournament, but this year we had over 150 players. As we have done for the past couple of years, the men and the ladies played at the same time, which created a wonderful atmosphere.

This year went down to the wire with some super opposition, but in the end experience won the day in both the men’s and ladies’ categories.

Taking the men’s title for the 3rd time in a row was Tyron Davidowitz on a brilliant 143 one under par. This really was great golf as I set the course for the Championships and I did not make it easy! Second place went to 15-year-old Sam Simpson on 147, three over par. Sam is definitely one to keep an eye on, with an excellent work ethos and lots of talent.

The Putting Pirate Julian Shaw

On the ladies’ front we had Lynne Behagg winning an amazing 5th title in a row on 161 and an unbelievable 9th title overall. I think we shall be calling this the Lynne Behagg trophy soon! Second place went to Cheryl Richardson on 170 and third place to our Vice Captain’s daughter, Nicola Streicher on a very credible 173. Well done indeed to you all.

The biggest thank you this year goes to Ford Hermanus, who very generously sponsored our Championship. Tank Coetzee, we are proud to be associated with you.

A special thanks this year also goes to course superintendent Malcolm Bromley of Golf Data – the course was really excellent. And well done to our General Manager Sharon Sleigh, for an exceptional tournament.

Further to last week’s announcement that Hermanus Golf Club is featured in the April issue of Compleat Golfer, a huge thanks to the Whale Coast Hotel for hosting the Compleat Golfer’s senior photographer – he had only good things to say about your hotel!

Our club has quite a few groups that play together.

Arguably the most popular is the Grysbokke, run – and run well, I might add – by Willie Vanderhoeven, who contributed the following report: On Friday 23 February, the Grysbokke Senior Golfing Society played for their Fellowship Cup, which is South Africa against the Rest of the World. The 32 players divided into 8 teams took on the fight and played Match-play.

A very rare February storm

Willie Vanderhoeven of the Grysbokke with captains Chris Martin (RoW) and Jacko Jackson (SA). with rain at times tried to disturb the game and made for unusual February conditions (based on Hermanus standards).

This definitely favoured the visitors, the majority of whom play 90% of their games in such conditions at home, which made the fight even more intense. But the South Africans adapted well to the conditions and put up a brave

fight, which eventually resulted in a 4 all draw.

Roger Beeken and Ralf Wormsbacher, both of course coming in from the cold, even managed a remarkable 65 net on the day, despite the conditions.

A healthy lunch served by the caterer ended this day of camaraderie, which is to be repeated next year at the same time, same place. But

Jacko, our man responsible for the weather, will have to pull up his socks then and make sure the weather favours the locals.

In the absence of a winner both Captains, Chris Martin (RoW) and Jacko Jackson (SA) could hold their hands on the trophy for a while.

Well done again to Willie, I am sure the rest of the guys would like to extend their thanks to you for all you do for them.

24

13 - 19 March 2018

THE

NEWS

MY Sport

Hermanus Sports Club to commence construction

I

n terms of the 2017/’18 adjustment budget accepted by the Overstrand Municipality (OM) on 28 February, the Hermanus Sports Club (HSC) finally received the first tranche of a grant-in-aid approved by the OM in February 2012. The monies have been made available from the proceeds of the sale of the property commonly referred to as “the circus land". The purchaser, Massbuild, will reportedly extend the current Builders Warehouse to encompass that portion of real estate.

The HSC will utilise the monies to construct 6 tennis courts (at least 2 of these to be floodlit), 4 squash courts, 2 netball courts and a club house. The total grant-in-aid will be apportioned, with R4 million becoming available in the current financial year i.e. before June 2018, and the balance of R4 million to be used for final construction in the 2018/’19 financial year.

After completion of this phase, the sporting facilities in the

Offside Tony O’Hagan

precinct will include cricket, hockey, tennis, squash and netball. The precinct is also home to the Hermanus Country Market, the Hermanus Pigeon Club and a dance studio which a private investor is currently constructing at the western end of the site.

ing plans of the club house, plans that are already at an advanced stage. Once these are approved by the OM and the budget is approved by the HSC, construction will begin.

The constitution and workings of the HSC are based on that of the Western Province Cricket Club where individual membership of the various sporting disciplines is offered, together with main club membership. Social membership of the HSC will also be available.

After many years on the drawing board, the precinct will at last provide a boon for the community. There are other facets of the complex which will be pursued in the hope of securing sponsors and donors. These include a swimming pool, gymnasium, restaurant, sports outlet and accommodation for touring teams.

The HSC committee, together with representatives of various sports clubs, will meet this week with the architect, Anton du Plessis, to finalise the build-

If these targets are met, the Hermanus Sports Club will raise the bar by becoming a much sought-after sporting destination.

Challenging year ahead for Atlantics Rugby The Atlantics Rugby Club in Hermanus finished 2nd in the 2017 Overberg Grand Challenge.

This proved to be the best result for many years. However, the season ahead will present some challenges to the club as last season's coaches, Thomas Charles and Ivanho da Costa, together with 8 players have moved to the Botrivier Rugby Club which participates in the same league as Atlantics.

However, Atlantics Chairman Clive Spring is confident that the new Coach, Elton

Booysen has the credentials to guide the club to a successful 2018 season. Booysen was at the helm of the successful Hawston Rugby Club in past seasons.

The loss of last year's successful coaching team and the migration of a number of players will entail restructuring of the team and the implementation of new coaching methods.

The 2018 season will, as usual, be a very competitive competition, with teams and passionate supporters seeking top honours in the Overberg rugby leagues.

CHAMPION ATHLETES Five Hermanus High School learners were selected to represent Boland at the Western Cape Athletics Championships held in Paarl on Saturday 10 March. They are Joshua Cloete (discus boys U15), JW Human (discus and shotput boys U19) and Donovan Brink (3 000m boys U15), and in front Mikayla Martinengo (5 000m girls U19) and Mari Carstens (shotput girls U17). At the time of going to print, the following results were available: Mikayla and Joshua both won silver in their respective events, while Mari came fourth and Donovan 6th.

SPORT NEWS? Share your sport news, results or photos with us! It has never been easier. Just send the information or image to admin@thevillagenews.co.za and we will gladly consider it. Competition results, a friendly rivalry, a funny anecdote, a once-off feat or a major improvement – all news is welcome. We would like to feature our community’s major sport stars as well as its unsung sport heroes – just let us know. We look forward to hearing from you.