The Village NEWS - 06 March 2019 - 13 March 2019.

6 MARCH 2019

THE VILLAGE

NEWS

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Whispering to animals

The Stony Point Nature Reserve in Betty’s Bay is home to one of the largest successful breeding colonies of the African Penguin in the world. The reserve gives the public an opportunity to see these beautiful birds as they go about their daily activities via a boardwalk which runs through the colony without disturbing them. These two penguins were enjoying a brief midday nap together. Visit the website for more information: www.capenature.co.za/reserves/stony-point-nature-reserve.

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Safari park mooted for Kleinmond Writer De Waal Steyn

(PPP) kicking off last week.

The development of a safari park near Kleinmond featuring elephants and other game, together with a manor house, 20 chalets, a restaurant complex, tented camp and boma, staff quarters, and animal stables and enclosures is one step closer to reality with the public participation process

The proposed development is being planned by Craig Saunders, owner of Elephant Adventures, on the Lamloch Farm approximately 2 km east of Kleinmond. In December last year Saunders said in an interview that he had no doubt that this project would add value to the local economy.

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close and personal with the largest mammals on earth and to be taught the importance of conserving and protecting our natural environment and the other species that share the earth with us.”

Saunders already owns three other wildlife sanctuaries – at Hartbeespoort Dam, Hazyview and The Crags near Plettenberg Bay. Based on the

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“Most visitors to our sanctuaries are foreigners, all needing to be accommodated and fed, which will be good for the local hospitality industry. We place a very strong emphasis on education and have a good relationship with various universities which undertake research on aspects of elephant behaviour. We also encourage visits from school groups which enables youngsters to get up

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habitat type, habitat condition and the potential for wildlife at Lamloch as described in the PPP documentation, the following species can be considered for introduction: bontebok, plains zebra, red hartebeest, eland, buffalo, elephant (in captivity), lion (in captivity) and black rhinoceros.

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6 March 2019

What to expect from 2019/20 draft budget A

preview of the proposed 2019/20 Draft Budget was presented by the Executive Mayor Dudley Coetzee at the Overstrand Municipal Advisory Forum (OMAF) meeting on Thursday, 28 February.

“For the purpose of compiling this Draft Budget we have assumed an increase of 15% in the tariff for electricity charged by Eskom to municipalities,” the mayor said.

The mayor referred to the challenging task of balancing the cost of providing basic services to the residents of the Overstrand, as well as tourists to our area, with the income the Municipality is able to generate from these services.

“In line with our strategy that the basic charge for a service should cover the cost of providing the service, the basic charge for electricity increases by 17.5% and the unit charge has been increased by 14% for the first 350kwh, 14.5% for 351 – 600kwh and 15% above 600kwh.”

“This year is no different in that respect,” he said. “However, this year the restoration of the damage to infrastructure following the devastating fires that ravaged the Overstrand, the civil unrest of 2018 and the present state of our country’s economy make our challenge even greater.”

This results in a cost increase of about 15% for all domestic electricity users based on a 15% increase requested by Eskom.

Coetzee said it is projected that inflation this year will reach 5.3% and increase to 5.6% during the next financial year. “The directive to the administration has been to limit increases in those services that we can control to 5.7% in the 2017/2018 Draft Budget. It is against this background that we prepared the 2019/2020 Draft Budget.

“A further challenge that we are again faced with is the above inflation salary increase government approved for municipal employees.

When the notch increases, which averages 2%, and other allowances are added to the 6.2% salary adjustment, the increase is closer to 8.2% per annum for three years,” he added.

The rebate on property rates offered to persons over the age of 60 remains unchanged. The parking tariffs in the Hermanus CBD will also remain unchanged for the 2019/2020 financial year.

Calculating the sewerage charge for waterborne sewerage on 70% of potable water consumed with a cap of 35 kℓ also remains unchanged.

“In preparing this draft budget we have continued to move towards ensuring that our basic charges cover the cost of providing the service and that the tariff covers the usage. Water, sewerage and refuse meet these criteria,” he said.

He continued to explain that the cost of providing electricity is still subsidised by the consumption tariff. Nersa has requested a 15% increase in the electricity tariff charged by Eskom to municipalities.

Other proposed tariffs: • It is proposed to increase Property Rates across the board by 5.7%.

• The tariff for sewerage and water also increases by 5.7%.

• Mayor Coetzee said the exception here is the tariff for 0 – 6kℓ of water which increases by 11.5% or an increase of R3.46 per month.

This is in line with a National Treasury directive that the level and structure of water tariffs are to be fully cost reflective. At present the cost of providing water is around R23.40 per kℓ excluding VAT. • The tariff for refuse removal unfortunately increases by 12.86% to cover the cost of a new refuse cell at Karwyderskraal, as well as moving the Hermanus Refuse Transfer site.

• Sundry tariffs increased by 5.7%. The cost of A4 photo copies remains unchanged to make it affordable for learners to make copies of documents. The building plan fee for alterations of less than 80m² in a government-subsidised housing scheme has been reduced from R463 to R250.

The 2019/2020 Draft Budget will be open for public comment after it is tabled at the council meeting on 27 March 2019.

R10,5 million for ECD development Following a presentation by the Department of Rural Development and Land Reform (DRDLR) to council on the projects and potential funding opportunities aligned with the Agri-parks programme implemented by the department, the Director of Economic and Social Development and Tourism submitted an application for various projects in the Overstrand. DRDLR approved the construction of three Early Childhood Development (ECD) facilities in the Overstrand to the value of R10,5 million. The ECD facilities will be erected in Gansbaai, Pearly Beach and Kleinmond.

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There were many farewell tears at Overstrand Municipality when Solid Waste Manager, Johan van Taak (or ‘Mr Vullis’ as he is affectionately known) retired after an incredible 38 years of service. Under his leadership, Overstrand won the Greenest Town Competition Waste Management category seven times during the last nine years. Johan put the Overstrand Municipality on the map as a national leader in solid waste management. The Overstrand wishes him and his wife, Irene, well and trust that they will be blessed with good health and happy days during their retirement. Pictured here are Daneel Whiting, John Simson, Karin van der Merwe, Milli Mantyi (in front), Johan van Taak and Hanré Blignaut.

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Game park set to draw visitors from all over the world Craig Saunders, the man behind the proposed Lamloch Safari Park on the R44 just outside of Kleinmond is no stranger when it comes to rehabilitating rescued elephants or building sanctuaries for them. His first enterprise was building an elephant sanctuary and rehabilitation centre at Hartbeespoort Dam for traumatised elephants who had survived a cull and were about to be exported overseas.

“It takes immense time, patience and trust to build positive relationships with these elephants and it’s absolutely vital to choose the right people to work with them,” he points out.

“Actually, what we do is manage the environment and the people, rather than the elephants. For us ‘training’ is a dirty word. We habituate the elephants to human contact and ensure that all their needs are met, in terms of food, social interaction with other elephants, exercise, stimulation and security. Our interaction with them is built on a reward system of positive behavioural reinforcement,” he said.

After the Hartbeespoort Sanctuary came one at The Crags near Plettenberg Bay and another one in Hazyview, Mpumalanga. In between, he also established a primate sanctuary for rescued primates which live completely free within the reserve. At present there are 12 elephants at the Hartbeespoort Sanctuary, five at The Crags and a similar number in Hazyview. And now there’s Kleinmond.

Already released onto the 455 ha sanctuary are eland, springbuck and kudu, with zebra and other antelope species, all endemic to this region, to be added soon.

With regard to the planned introduction of eight elephants the idea is that members of the public, in small groups and in the presence of skilled and experienced handlers will be able to accompany the elephants in whatever they are doing at the time, whether it’s walking, swimming or being groomed.

“One of the reasons this particular property is so great is that they’ll be able to swim in the estuary. Physiologically, elephants have many aquatic characteristics and they love to swim. In the process they will help oxygenate the water and open up paths through the reeds, all of which will make a positive contribution to the life of the Bot River Estuary. The other good news is that for them Port Jackson willow is a delicacy,” said Saunders.

The animals will be housed in a 20 ha electrified enclosure at night and all excursions into the ranch will be conducted by experienced elephant handlers. The objective of the programme is to provide an opportunity for visitors to observe elephants at relatively close quarters and learn more about them in a safe, relaxed and controlled environment. They will be previously captive elephants, now able to range free within the elephant camp. They will do most of their grazing on rehabilitated pasture

and former alien plant-invaded areas.

Visitors will be able to observe elephants “in the wild” as they graze, browse and interact with other elephants, as well as the other game species. During certain structured programmes the elephants will have the opportunity to move across the whole property within the boundary fences and will be taken back to the holding camp at the end of the day.

The Game Management Plan states that elephants must have been an integral part of the Bot River wetland ecosystem in the past. The wetland would have provided food, even if only occasionally utilised in passing.

Other historically occurring wildlife like hippopotamus, buffalo, bontebok, eland and red hartebeest would have been little affected by the occasional presence of elephant as each species occupied its own specific habitat niche.

“It is also unlikely that the elephants will have a negative impact on the smaller wildlife of the area such as grysbok, common duiker and grey rhebok due to wide niche and habitat separation. Smaller mammals like vlei rats, gerbils, porcupines, hares and ground birds are unlikely to be negatively affected by elephants as they also occur in other biomes together with elephants, with no known negative impacts.

“The potential impact of elephants on the fynbos vegetation is unknown and it is important to monitor the changes in vegetation composition and cover, in relation to the density of invasive alien species. If, over a period of 3 – 4 years, it can be shown that the elephants are not having an adverse effect on the indigenous flora, the negative impact rating could be reduced,” states the report.

According to the public participation documentation, wildlife that would

have occurred naturally in the Bot River wetland area, or at least used it occasionally, included buffalo, hippopotamus and elephant. All these animals would have been attracted to the wetland system for the grazing that it contained.

for their security.

Common duiker, grey rhebok and grysbok still occur naturally in the area, while bush pigs may occasionally visit. In addition to the already abundant wildlife and the renowned population of wild horses in the area, the introduction of other species will not only enhance the visitor experience but also assist in conservation efforts and in generating income to run the park.

“Chalets are proposed below a ridgeline south of the staff housing. The topography will be optimally utilised by positioning the chalets along the contours below the view lines from the road, creating a secluded accommodation area for holiday-makers.

Spectacular views over the flood plain of the game farm with the ocean on the horizon and the lights of Hawston, Hermanus and Gansbaai at night will be enjoyed from the chalets. Twenty units are proposed, with two units per building,” according to the report.

A small portion of the game ranch will be set up for intensive buffalo breeding and live sales. The buffalo is a high-value species that will be intensively farmed for profit to finance the game ranch. Buffalo are extremely hardy, adapt easily and are relatively easy to manage in small camps.

“Excess bulls will be permitted to range free outside of the breeding camps until sold. Buffalo are historically endemic in the Lamloch Safari Park area and have been introduced under intensive management onto a number of game ranches in the Western Cape, with complete success. The buffalo will be managed as an intensive breeding project in rotation camps. Initially the project will be launched with approximately 20 animals and a preliminary future ceiling of 30,” states the report.

The intention is also to introduce one male and two female lions into an enclosure for the purpose of tourism viewing and to some extent, education. In addition, it is planned to introduce a pair of black rhino for the purpose of tourism viewing. The rhino will be completely free-ranging and extra precautions will be taken

Over and above the game fencing and gates that have already been put up, a total of R4.5 million has already been spent to clear the area of alien vegetation.

A tented camp is proposed on the southern side of the game farm between the dunes and the lagoon/ wetland. This area features a wide variety of birdlife as well as a group of free-roaming, feral horses which use it as their grazing grounds. Access to the tented camp will be restricted to game vehicles, due to the nature of the area and the sensitivity of the natural environment.

The tented camp will comprise temporary structures including a reception office, kitchen, dining space, bar, manager’s tent, ten luxury visitor tents, an island lapa and a spa. The plan is for all these facilities to be assembled on raised wooden decks one metre above the high-water mark with boardwalks linking them. A boardwalk is also proposed from the tented camp to the nearby wetland where a new bird hide is planned.

The restaurant complex will be located east of the entrance within a low-lying area of the property directly west of the Lamloch river stream.

The restaurant complex will function

as the central “gathering place” and also the administrative centre of the game farm. A parking lot, capable of accommodating more than 100 vehicles, is proposed within the 30-metre building line between the restaurant complex and the R43 road.

The restaurant complex will consist of two floors overlooking the floodplain towards the south of the farm. Apart from the restaurant, the complex will also accommodate a reception area, shops, a bar, a children’s play area, lounges, a function hall (to be built during a second phase), a wine cellar and supporting facilities like kitchens, offices, storage spaces and parking.

Outside the restaurant complex extensive lawns are proposed where visitors can relax and enjoy the tranquil nature of the setting.

“Currently, apart from the vegetation large areas consist of wetland and floodplains. The development proposal for the game farm largely revolves around returning the area to its original state. In terms of the built environment, it should be noted that the scale is relatively small, given that the approximately 6 500m² of buildings represents less than 0.001% of the farm.

“From a financial, construction and management perspective this is not a large development; however, this proposal is expected to serve as a major catalyst for tourism, especially eco- and agri-tourism in the Overstrand area. It is likely to provide more than 100 temporary jobs during the construction phase and 50 permanent employment opportunities thereafter,” according to the PPP documents.

The public participation documents are available at the Kleinmond library and online at www. dougjeff.co.za. Interested and affected parties have until 1 April to comment.

6 March 2019

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Mr Hi-Tec’s heart is here in Hermanus Writer Pia Nänny

PHOTO: echo-news.co.za

H

e proudly wears the green and gold when the Springboks play, he listens to Afrikaans music in his car in Holland, and when his cellphone rings it plays Kurt Darren’s Kaptein, span die seile.

Dutch entrepreneur Frank van Wezel, founder of Hi-Tec, loves South Africa and especially Hermanus. He owns a guest house here and his company sponsors the Hi-Tec Walkerbay Xtreme, a multi-day sports festival that is hosted in April every year.

“I love the town. I’ve been coming here for many, many years and I’ve seen it grow. When Rick (Oosthuyzen, owner of Tapas) first mentioned the Xtreme to me, I said I wanted to help with sponsorship because I see that Hermanus needs this impetus of sport tourism – it would be good for the town.”

Frank’s love affair with Africa began many years ago when he worked for a Dutch fertilizer company in Kenya and Rhodesia (now Zimbabwe). After the company was bought by American investors, he was transferred to England, where he decided that he rather wanted to work for himself.

“But what would I do?” he remembers thinking.

“Now, everyone at my squash club in those days was moaning about their shoes. They were too heavy, they slipped, they tore. So, I thought I’d make squash shoes. Now, I knew nothing about squash shoes, but if you don’t know anything, you can learn.”

In 1974, Frank designed a squash shoe that he thought would address all the complaints. That shoe is still part of the Hi-Tec collection today – 23 million pairs have been sold over the years and it has been included in the Athletic Hall of Fame in New York.

Ten years later, he received a letter from Cape Town, sent by Wilfrey Lemkus of Lemkus Sport. He had heard that Hi-Tec had a very good squash shoe and he wanted to become the distributor in South Africa.

“I was so happy that someone from

ABOVE: Nelson Mandela’s Hi-Tec shoes which are proudly displayed at the Stellenbosch store.

RIGHT: Dutch entrepreneur, Frank van Wezel, founder of Hi-Tec, the title sponsor for the Walkerbay Xtreme.

Africa wanted my shoes. Wonderful, wonderful!” remembers Frank.

“Then he told me that if I wanted to sell more shoes in Africa, I should pay him a visit and he could tell my what kind of shoes Africa wanted. And I thought: Wonderful, now I can go to Africa on company business.”

And the rest, as they say, is history.

Frank and Wilfrey’s son, Brad became good friends and founded Hi-Tec South Africa.

In 2016, 42 years after he had founded the company, Frank received an offer from an American company to buy Hi-Tec that he could not refuse.

However, after hearing that Africa as a market didn’t really interest them and that they would probably close down the Hi-Tec subsidiary here, he decided to sell the rest of the company, but to keep Hi-Tec South Africa.

“My heart is here – it goes far beyond bookkeeping,” says Frank. And his decision has paid dividends.

“We have a very good management team here. I have a wonderful group of eight directors and about 80 staff and we are doing great. In 2018 there was supposed to be a recession but we grew by 31% last year. At the moment, it’s a dream company to be the leader of.”

Frank appreciates history, and an example of this – the Hi-Tec shoes former president Nelson Mandela wore when he was taken from Robben Island for his first meeting with the Apartheid regime – are displayed in the Hi-Tec store in Stellenbosch.

when he visited the country.

“They were bought for him by Winnie Mandela and they were our tennis shoes called Wimbledon,” recalls Frank.

He has a message for the organisers and participants in the Hi-Tec Walkerbay Xtreme: “Hi-Tec is behind you in this event. We believe the sportier you are – the more you test your body – the better it is for you

Later, when the Nelson Mandela Foundation was created, they had an auction where they sold memorabilia from his time in prison.

“On the auction table arrived this pair of tennis shoes. Now, by hook or by crook, we as a company had to acquire these shoes, because they have history. So, we bought the shoes at the auction and we displayed them in our head office in Amsterdam,” says Frank.

After the company was sold, Frank decided to bring the shoes back to South Africa. “They are proudly displayed in our store in Stellenbosch, where they really belong.”

The more Frank comes to South Africa, the more he loves the country.

After founding Hi-Tec South Africa, he bought a house in Camps Bay so that he could bring his family with him

It was his Camps Bay neighbour who brought him to Hermanus, and he fell in love with the town. “The air is different here. Fortunately, my wife also loves Hermanus.”

eventually because health is the most important thing in life. By participating, you are improving your bodies and you are being healthy. And the air in Hermanus is champagne air so you have the combination of physical exercise, clean air and hopefully beautiful weather. Guys, you are so lucky that you can be here.

“On behalf of Hi-Tec, I wish you all very well. It doesn’t matter whether you come first or last, just participate!

I hope you will all have a lot of fun.”

Entries Open for the 2019 HI-TEC Walkerbay Xtreme The HI-TEC Walkerbay Xtreme (WBX), a multi-day adventure sports festival situated in the heart of Hermanus, will return to the Whale Capital for a fourth time between 26 and 28 April 2019.

With a variety of disciplines to choose from, the HI-TEC Xtreme offers something for everyone – from adventure seekers, professional athletes and fitness fanatics to recreational outdoor enthusiasts looking for a new challenge and a fun-filled sporting holiday in one of SA’s favourite adventure sport hotspots. The events include a sprint triathlon, MTB criterium, open-water swim, street-mile sprint, junior triathlon and mountain bike challenge. The popular swim-run-jump challenge – which includes a jump from Dreunkrans – will get the adrenalin pumping while the Big 6 Xtreme – which is entered as a separate event and sees athletes competing in the street mile, 35 km MTB Challenge, Swim-Run-Jump Challenge, sprint triathlon, open water swim, and trail run – will be held over the course of three days.

Online entries are now open. For more information, visit www.walkerbay xtreme.com or email entries@walkerbayxtreme.com

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LET’S TALK

Healthy and robust debate are crucial for democracy. The Village NEWS firmly believes in freedom of the press as well as the right of individuals to freely express themselves, as long as they don’t infringe upon the rights of others. The opinions, beliefs and viewpoints expressed by the various authors therefore do not necessarily reflect the opinions, beliefs and viewpoints of The Village NEWS. Enjoy our paper. - The Editorial Team

T: 028 312 2020 A: 8 Arum St, Hermanus Industrial

GAS DELIVERIES

Red tide or brown tide?

A recent trip to Monte Carlo had me contemplating the lost, golden days of the ancienne French Riviera. Ah, the halcyon days of Brigitte Bardot, sail-boating at Juan-les-Pins, and taste buds dancing to the soundtrack of bouillabaisse en rouille.

What changed? The flash money moved in. Joie de vivre apparently didn’t translate well into the languages of the Russian oligarch, Saudi oil sheik, and white-collar tax-dodger. Of course, everyone acted as if it was all perfectly normal: ask no questions, hear no lies. Monaco became known as a sunny place for shady people.

These thoughts percolated recently as I was enjoying a glass of the Hemel-en-Aarde Valley’s finest while staring out over the Old Harbour. The enchanting view suddenly clouded over when the midnight-blue Bentley of the semi-vanquished Steinhoff CEO slithered past, reminding me of the hit to my investment portfolio

when that fine ship met the unyielding reef of accountability. I wondered: is Hermanus’s great-but-provincial lifestyle similarly attracting some of SA’s twilight characters?

in a recent article that a prominent local businessman allegedly facilitated tender shenanigans early in Zuma’s reign, allegedly by signing off on a dodgy audit.

The town is at proximate distance to the business honeypots, and just quiet enough to escape close media censure of a carefree existence. And it is not only the extended boere-mafiosi flaunting their predatory wealth and slashing at the fabric of our society.

During the summer holiday I noticed another unsavoury corporate fellow on Kammabaai beach, apparently the proud owner of a holiday home in Voëlklip. That his visage had graced the pages of the national press in recent years clearly did not deter him from very public enjoyment of our amenities. And so on.

The irony is that unbridled hysteria dominates braai-side talk when it comes to ANC-driven crime and corruption, yet unsavoury whitecollar characters get a free pass.

A few giggles and a bit of skinder, but denizens of submarine scruples have no trouble integrating into our seaside community. They're one of us, you see? Eat, pray, love: the colour of your money is good here.

Now the dark stain of the boisterously incontinent state capture scandal appears to have spread to our end of the garment. A journalist pointed out

Now where did I leave my sunglasses?

I now feel it necessary to clarify my position. If I have my adopted dog on a leash and out for a walk and your dog runs up to her and they get into a fight, then you're the one with no regard for the welfare of animals. If your dog runs into the road because it isn't on a leash and gets hit by a car, then you're the one with no regard

for the welfare of animals. It you allow your dog to run in a nature reserve and kill wildlife, then you are the one with no regard for animals.

A lot of people say that their dogs listen and that they are fine off leash.

That's what the lady thought earlier this evening when her dog had a go at my kids and dogs, and they ran all the way home with this huge dog chasing them.

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Hermanus is undoubtedly too remote for oligarchs and oil sheiks, but local pioneer species have arrived.

AN ANNOUNCEMENT

The Village NEWS launches THE VILLAGE NEWS AUDIOCAST ON WHATSAPP!

MT Wessels, Eastcliff

Owners of off-leash dogs disregard welfare of others Re the great debate on dogs on leashes: I have dogs and they are always on a leash. Many people who think it’s totally unfair and that dogs should be allowed to run around off leash, have taken to calling people with the same opinion as mine ‘dog haters’.

ONLINE

Starts 07 March 2019, every Thursday evening.

Each week receive: “the Weekly Round-Up”, “What’s On” this weekend and much more.

cerned. How self-absorbed can you be?

So from now on it’s a bottle of pepper spray with us on every walk and the next time a dog comes running it’s going to be sprayed in the face.

It’s going to break my heart to do it but I won't have a choice, entirely because of your disregard for the welfare of my animal or yours.

Send us a WhatsApp message on (+27) 67 770 7629 if you’d like to join the group.

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Tanya G

She shrugged her shoulders at me when I found her and told her to put her dog on a leash, but by then the dog had taken off in another direction. Still she was totally uncon-

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OPINION MATTERS GET IN TOUCH

Sustainable tourism is not a walk in the park In today’s world, it often feels that economic advancement trumps the environment and that sustainable growth actually just means sustained growth, driven by an economic world order that demands endless expansion in order to keep ticking.

In the Overberg, dependent as we are on tourism and agriculture for our own economic survival, we face this reality every day. We love our coastal waters.

We breathe in our “champagne” air.

We marvel at rolling farms dotted with bright yellow canola that stretch out as far as your eyes can see. We enjoy the

A Far Kraai

solitude of walking in the mountains alone.

But, at the same time, we are conscious of remaining an attractive destination for visitors who come predominantly to enjoy our natural beauty but also want to have a full range of activities on offer. We watch dam levels and pray for rain, fully aware of the importance to our farmers and wine industry, and ultimately to tourism growth.

We walk a slippery slope. On one hand, we want more people to visit but

yet, on the other, we want to protect and preserve the extraordinary beauty our eyes feast on every day. We want visitors to spend more days in the Overberg but we are also aware that we need to keep them busy.

The application by Lamloch Game Farm to introduce eight elephants and other wildlife in Kleinmond again shines the spotlight on this slippery slope, just as the debate last year on what to do at Fernkloof Nature Reserve raised passions.

Taking guidance from the United

Nations World Tourism Organisation, we need to ask ourselves, “Does this investment take into full account the current and future economic, social and environmental impact? Does the investment address the needs of visitors, the tourism industry, the environment and host communities?”

If the answers tick most of the boxes then, as they say, it’s a no-brainer. But be mindful that no investment will ever fully meet all the criteria. In the end, let us hope that common sense and calm minds will prevail.

This is good NEWS - Ed

Odd jobs: Bond Villain or Stench Sleuth?

By Murray Stewart (old photo)

row (like an ID line-up), while fearless sniffers clutching clipboards get up close and personal with the odour thevillagemuze@gmail.com mongers. These ladies document the severity of the pungent pit-pongs, In many countries, job opportunities the hair-curling halitosis and the are a major concern and people will foul-smelling toe jam, before and perform all sorts of tasks to keep the after the application of different wolf from the door. This is understrengths of fragrances. Sounds standable in poorer or developing enticing. economies where folks are desperate and have little choice.

Some specialise in rural areas. Armed with what they call a ‘sniffing funnel’, However, in developed countries these stench sleuths are called upon like America and Britain for example, to hover expectantly behind a staunemployment is relatively low, so tionary cow to analyse the composithere’s really no reason why people tion of its flatulence. This apparently choose particular jobs, and happily helps the farmer control the diet and stick with them. (Warning – some are health of the beast. I wonder what a bit rude.) on earth the sniffers think about between blasts.

For example, the professional Armpit Sniffer. I’m not making this up.

Completed in 1941, Mount Rushmore They’re called Olfactory Connoisseurs in Dakota is a national monument to in England, Odour Judges in America most Americans, and once a year the and ‘Snuif Speurders’ locally. They old presidents require a serious ‘facial’ can pinpoint a pong at ten paces, due to weathering. They regularly and pharmaceutical companies often develop unnecessary laughter lines, employ them to test their products, misplaced dimples and creeping like deodorants, mouthwashes and crow’s feet. One bloke’s job is to abfungal foot sprays. seil across their faces for days on end with a bucket of granite dust/silicone Picture the scene: With arms above mix, performing a botox procedure heads, near-naked hunks stand in a literally of monumental proportions.

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Dangling from George Washington’s nostril is daunting stuff, so folks with vertigo need not apply.

In England, another strange profession (till he retired recently) was the only real live volunteer/dummy for trainee proctologists – known as the Registered Rectal Teaching Assistant. (No kidding.) The Royal Medical Council claimed that human interaction was vital during practical training, and a ‘live’ rectum was more instructive to medical students and interns than a synthetic one.

As a result, this bloke hightailed it between lectures at universities and training hospitals across the country, where for a handsome fee he would unashamedly drop his rods and ‘moon’ the entire class, and one-byone they’d come forward to prod around for his prostate. Mmm… Dark Side of the Moon springs to mind, but when asked how he was enjoying being the recently-retired rectal assistant, he claimed, “On the whole, I feel more secure nowadays,” and gave us a thumbs-up.

Five days a week, and for the last 30 years, Frank Braisted clocks into the Smithsonian Museum at 4am armed

with a feather duster and vacuum cleaner. He is the dinosaur duster, and before opening time, he lovingly dusts/vacuums all the bones on every dinosaur in the entire museum.

He says he hopes to end up as an exhibit himself one day, and be equally well looked after by his successor.

At the Sensory Analysis Centre in Kansas, Patricia Patterson’s job gets tongues and tails wagging. She’s a pet food connoisseur.

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“People don’t like dog foods that make a lot of crumbs,” she said between mouthfuls. “So it’s not just the flavour of the pellets, but the texture.

Crunchy, but not brittle.” She’s often required to adjudicate if one brand, for example, claims to be beefier than another. “Anyway, I just love the smell of Epol in the morning!” she gushed, and although pet-less, Pat’s home pantry is regularly restocked with pet food.

Anyway there are others too many to discuss, like a golf ball diver, a potato chip inspector or a chick sexer.

The most pointless job in the world though, must go to the guy who fits indicator lights in Toyota taxis.

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De Waal Steyn Publishing Editor dewaal@thevillagenews.co.za Hedda Mittner Content Editor hedda@thevillagenews.co.za Raphael da Silva Online Editor raphael@thevillagenews.co.za Kathy Mulock-Bentley Marketing Manager kathy@thevillagenews.co.za Elaine Davie Journalist & Sub-editor elaine@thevillagenews.co.za Sarah Taylor Journalist sarah@thevillagenews.co.za Taylum Meyer Photojournalist & Line Editor taylum@thevillagenews.co.za Charé van der Walt Marketing Representative chare@thevillagenews.co.za Tania Hamman Office Admin admin@thevillagenews.co.za Nickey Jackson Production Manager nickey@thevillagenews.co.za Jessica Pote Graphic Designer jessica@thevillagenews.co.za Leijla Steyn Content Curator leijla@thevillagenews.co.za Mitch Scholtz Content Curator mitch@thevillagenews.co.za

Printed: 028 312 2234 Digital: issuu.com/dwaal The Village NEWS is published weekly and the next edition will be available on 13 March 2019. The NEWS can be found at over 300 distribution points on the Cape Whale Coast from Pringle Bay to Gansbaai, as well as in Elgin, Greyton and Caledon.

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LET’S TALK Even well-trained dogs can act unpredictably I never write letters to newspapers or post my opinion on social media, but the two silly letters in The Village NEWS of 27 February by ‘Dog Owner’ and ‘Dogoffleash’ compel me to get involved in the argument regarding dogs and leashes.

Like Dog Owner, I am also a law-abiding tax payer who pays my rates and taxes here and I feel that I can also claim my constitutional rights to bring my 20 cattle and 40 sheep to walk freely with me along the cliff path daily. Maybe Pres. Ramaphosa can also bring his prize buffalo here regularly to walk freely along the path with us.

During the last 42 years I have had 7 dogs (and 5 cats occasionally), ranging from a St Bernard and Bouvier des Flanders to ‘pavement special’ rescue dogs. None of them ever had any formal training and none of them ever gave me any problems with other dogs or people, even when I walked with them on a leash. With the exception of one, they all lived till a ripe old age, so I think I can also be considered as a dog or pet lover.

I do have a problem, however, with people who brag about how well their dog(s) are trained and how much money they spent on it. We must remember that dogs are animals and are mainly controlled by instinct, no matter how much training they received. The primary instinct is one of survival and it can be triggered by various emotions, such as fear, anger, insecurity, hunger/thirst, stress, excitement, etc. so they can sometimes act unpredictably and/or aggressively towards people or other dogs.

If Dog Owner wants to check how well his dog is trained, don’t give him any water for two days, then place a bowl of water in front of him and order/call him away, before he

6 March 2019

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has a drink.

However, the issue is not the unfriendliness of other dogs or people; there are other reasons for keeping animals, especially large dogs, under control in public areas. I personally think that letting dogs run freely in a narrow restricted area like the cliff path is very irresponsible. Let me paint you a scenario.

Dog Owner and Rover are walking freely along the cliff path. Unseen, about 30m ahead of them is a pregnant lady (who is also a law-abiding tax payer and also pays her rates and taxes) and her 4-year-old son strolling along. Suddenly, Rover sees something further along the path that excites him (possibly a roaming cat) and, as he’s not on a leash, he runs full-tilt towards it, flying around a corner, right into the mother and child. The mother falls off the path and lands about 2m down, but the toddler who held onto her dress was flung all the way down. He did not survive. Later that day, the mother had a miscarriage.

So, within a few seconds, the welltrained, peaceful, social, free-running Rover had destroyed a whole family!

The law relating to dog bite/injury claims in South Africa is very clear; there are no ifs or buts. The dog's owner is legally responsible for the damage or loss caused by the dog.

There's no requirement that the claimant prove fault, negligence or intention. There may be exceptions on an individual basis, but don’t bank on it.

Further, the Animal Matters Amendment Act (Act 42 of 1993), provides that a court “may make certain directions in respect of injuries caused by animals. Any person as a result of whose negligence an animal causes injury to another person, shall be

guilty of an offence and liable on conviction to a fine or to imprisonment for a period not exceeding two years. A court convicting a person may make an order regarding the removal, custody, disposal or destruction of the relevant animal and the recovery of any costs incurred”.

Apart from the above, there is also a bylaw requiring all dogs to be on a leash in most public places, so law-abiding, tax-paying citizens should abide by it. I don’t know if blatant disregard of a bylaw will be construed as negligence with regards to Act 42, but it might be construed as aggravating behaviour.

The way I see it, Dog Owner and Dogoffleash have only 3 options: 1. Keep your dog on a leash when in public. I use an extensible leash, which gives the dog freedom of movement to about 4m. If the ones in the vet shops are too expensive, you can get a shorter one in the Chinese shop for under R100.

2. Buy a farm or a big piece of land so that your dog can run freely on your own property.

3. In keeping with the times, and the currently fashionable way of dealing with disputes, get a few like-minded friends and form an organisation or political party (what about calling it Overstrand Doggoffleash United ?). Then, once a week, you can block off a few streets with burning tyres and let the dogs run freely in between. If you call it protest action, the SAPS will not bother you, as long as you don’t damage property (the damaged streets don’t count).

We certainly have many more important issues to resolve here in Hermanus than dogs running free or not.

J. Kotze, Onrusrivier

HERMANUS VARSITY TRUST The Trustees cordially invite all interested parties to attend the official opening of the

HERMANUS VARSITY CAMPUS on the 16th of March 2019 at 10:30 at The Rubenstein Hall 65 Main Road, Hermanus

Guest speaker: Dr Sindiwe Magona, award-winning author, social activist and Fynarts 2019 honouree RSVP: admin@hermanusvarsity.co.za by 8 March 2019

Beware of ATM theft I am a ‘swallow’ who has been coming to South Africa for the last 20 years and we have been living in the Hermanus area for the past five years. It is a lovely little town and I have always felt very safe going about the town.

Recently I had family visiting from Scotland and last week my brotherin-law had his credit card stolen at

the ATM on Main Road. It was done so quickly that the guy got away before my brother-in-law realised what had happened.

Your readers should be aware of this and please be extra vigilant at this ATM. This incident spoilt what had been up until then a superb holiday.

Mrs K Huxter

Should varsity campus be in CBD? I have just watched the movie, Roma.

There is a short insert of students protesting which spilled over to violence. Is that not our fate in 10 years’ time, having a university campus on our doorstep?

Would it not be more appropriate to have the campus on the other side of Onrus, where there is more ground

available for expansion and probably less travelling costs for most of the students?

I am aware that the launch takes place this month but surely there is time later to move the campus out of the Hermanus CBD. Concerned Resident

6 March 2019

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9

Platbos Forest – join the Treevolution!

Writer Tweet Gainsborough-Waring

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latbos forest, Africa’s southernmost forest, sprawls across the Baviaanspoort Hills between Stanford and Gansbaai. It offers both a magical experience and some added health benefits.

This sliver of indigenous forest is extremely unusual in that it is situated on a gentle sandy slope with no visible water source, making it very vulnerable to bush fires. In the dry summer months it gets water from the early morning sea mists that often swathe the coastal area. But despite these harsh conditions it contains trees that are thousands of years old.

The indigenous Platbos Forest is an enchanted wonderland with a rare and endangered Ecosystem that needs to be preserved.

It is also unusual in that it is privately owned.

Francois Krige, an arborist and his co-custodian of the forest, Melissa Saayman, have a profound love of nature so jumped at the chance of buying their own patch of forest in 2005.

Their work revolves around preserving this remnant of ancient forest.

To accomplish this they have an ongoing programme of creating and maintaining firebreaks. Then there is the reforestation aspect which involves collecting and germinating seeds from the forest, which are then kept in a nursery for three years, after which they are re-planted in areas which need regeneration.

So far, 57 060 trees have been planted. These programmes are funded through the Platbos Conservation Trust which holds an annual Greenpop festival over two weekends in March.

The festival draws hundreds of like-minded people who come to enjoy nature, music, camaraderie – and getting a little dirt under their fingernails while planting saplings. For every tree planted there will be one square metre of forest canopy created, which in turn supports various life forms from mosses, lichens, birds and bees, to bushbuck and honey badgers.

A tangled maze of arcane trees, twisted branches and epiphytes, the forest is living proof of the cycle of life. The narrow tracks within take you past fallen and rotting branches which are in themselves natural sculptures.

And it is silent apart from the sounds of the forest, which include the gentle soughing of the wind through the upper branches and canopy, bird song and the occasional creaking of wood on wood when entwined branches rub against each other as they move in the wind. Fallen branches are covered in mosses, epiphytes, Old Man’s Beard and colourful lichens, the latter proof that here the air is fresh and unpolluted.

It is sandy underfoot and in the late morning, there is not much life to see other than birds and the occasional spider’s nest hanging from the smaller branches on a network of silk. This is because the creatures that live in Platbos are predominantly nocturnal. Stand quietly for a while and you’ll see the birds flitting among the branches, sometimes choosing to swoop through openings in the canopy.

In spite of the signage it is easy to lose yourself literally and figuratively. The paths are narrow and wind amongst the trees, drawing you deeper and deeper into the forest. All the time you are bathed in gentle sunlight which makes dappled shadows on the forest floor. There is much to be said about simply allowing yourself to let go. Nature is a natural healer and time spent in a forest has been scientifically proven to lower blood pressure and boost the immune system. It has also been shown to be bring about lower cortisol levels which in turn helps to reduce stress. In Japan, where forest therapy originated, a lot of research has been done on the benefits of this form of natural healing.

Trees are symbolic of beauty, strength, wisdom and life, so it is fitting that a range of tree essences and mists has been developed from the 13 key species found in the Platbos forest.

The essences are made by Melissa who, as a horticulturist, is well acquainted with the healing powers of plants. These products can be bought online via her website, enabling you to have a little of the forest’s healing essence in

your home.

Platbos offers the ideal opportunity to enjoy an easy walk or a picnic around a rustic table under the shady trees. Accommodation is also available should you want to have a 24-hour forest experience. For more information visit www.platbos.co.za

Platbos Reforest Festival Every March, an increasing number of people find their way to Platbos Forest to join Greenpop for a weekend of tree-planting, camping, live music, forest walks, vegetarian food, yoga, meditation, eco-workshops and good times!

This year Greenpop is hosting its ninth annual Reforest Festival over two weekends: the Family Fest from 15 – 17 March for the whole family and the Friends Fest for teens and adults from 22 – 24 March.

The festival has a positive long-term ecological impact and helps preserve and expand the forest that is home to many endangered species. Since 2011, over 55 000 trees have been re-planted here, and this March the goal is to plant another 12 000.

Tickets are available at www.reforestfest.com.

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THE VILLAGE

EXPLORER FOOD | WINE | ART | EVENTS

Richard and his Chocolate Factory Writer Elaine Davie

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hat kind of magic does it take to turn a young South African accountant into a chocolatier? If that’s a question that keeps you awake at night, Greyton’s Richard von Geusau would be the one to ask.

Nineteen years ago, he decided to escape the corporate rat race in favour of a less-hurried, easy-going small-town lifestyle. And then, entirely by chance, he fell under the spell of chocolate, which has since become an all-consuming passion – turning this essentially European ‘food of the gods’ into one with a uniquely African twist.

Unlike Willy Wonka’s wildly whacky workplace, Richard’s chocolate factory is a picture of organised efficiency, but the hedonistic scent of chocolate swirls around you like a comfort blanket and the sight of neat rows of chocolate logs, tempting truffles, cherry wedges, miniature gold bars and slabs in every possible flavour are enough to start your mouth watering and your senses reeling. And like many other successful enterprises, it all started with a book picked up casually in a bookstore.

The book was by Chantal Coady, the renowned doyenne of all things chocolatey, owner of Ro-

coco Chocolates in London. He made contact with her, asking where he could learn to be a chocolatier. Thanks to some string-pulling on her part and a personal visit to the factory of the famous Callebaut chocolate-makers of Belgium, he managed to secure a place for himself on one of their courses (only one student is selected from each continent per course). He subsequently attended another course at the even more famous Valrhona Chocolat in the South of France. For the rest, he is self-taught, he says and finds great fulfilment in experimenting with new flavours and techniques.

Richard still sources much of his couverture from these two highly-regarded suppliers.

Whatever form his chocolates take, he knows the base material will guarantee their quality.

He is very much a hands-on chocolatier, focusing on product development and experimenting with new flavours and textures, while his six assistants, most of whom have been with him since the beginning, handle the day-today production process under his supervision.

Although people come from near and far to sample von Geusau chocolates in his small shop on the premises of the Oak and Vigne Restaurant in Greyton, his primary thrust is no longer towards retail sales. He continues to supply old customers, like Cape Dry in Kleinmond and the Ou Meul Bakkery and Grootbos in Stanford, as well as a small selection of outlets in Cape Town, but his main focus now is on the top-end hospitality industry. In some cases, he supplies them with specially-branded chocolates for their guests and in others, they prefer to feature his own brand.

In Hermanus, for example, Birkenhead House is one of his clients and in Cape Town, the new 5-star Silo Hotel at the Waterfront has recently come on board.

There is even an hotel in the Seychelles which is supplied by him.

Another niche he has made his own is wine pairing. When Richard started his business, he was one of a very limited number of artisanal chocolatiers in the country and his iconic relationship with Waterford Wines broke new ground. He created special chocolate brands to pair with their wines and still regularly tweaks his offerings as

new vintages are produced.

“There is a similarity in the production of cocoa beans and grapes which has to do with the terroir of origin,” he points out, “and the trick is to match them so that they enhance each other to perfection. With Cabernet, for example, the amount of salt contained in the chocolate is critical.”

These days wine pairings are a dime a dozen, but not all of them are of an equally high standard, he says, which is unfortunate, because it tarnishes the image of the experience. What he is finding particularly fascinating, though, is creating pairings with other products, like whisky, brandy, port and gin. At the moment rum is becoming a hot property and there are definitely pairing possibilities there. As Richard adds, though, Greyton is not exactly at the centre of the honey pot, so it has taken years of building the von Geusau brand to the point of recognition it now enjoys.

Over the years he has been in the business, Richard has not noticed much change in taste preferences, although at the moment, both salt and pear seem to be enjoying some resurgence; a few years ago it was chilli. However, he is never happy to rest on his laurels, and is constantly experimenting with new recipes.

The current sensation is ruby chocolate, which is produced by Callebaut. It is not artificially coloured in any way, but is made from hybrid cocoa beans of that colour, with a slightly acidic, fruity flavour.

He is very excited that a new Chocolate Academy opened its doors in Fourways near Johannesburg last year. Up to now, there has been nowhere in this country where it was possible to train as a chocolatier. And, in the meantime, the use of chocolate in cooking is becoming increasingly popular. For the past couple of years he has enjoyed participating in the Inter Hotel Challenge by Showcook, organised by Annette Kesler, the doyenne of foodie journalism. It is

Richard von Geusau at work in his Greyton factory: chocolate making can be a messy business. a competition for the top hotel chefs in the country, ending in a huge banquet and major prize-giving at the Mount Nelson Hotel in Cape Town. Sponsored by top companies like Tsogo Sun and Distell, Richard has also managed to get a foot in the door, as the chocolate sponsor.

“The media coverage is extensive and the world is the oyster of any prizewinning chef,” he comments.

So has all the hard work and the fight for recognition for a brand from the rural hinterland of the Western Cape been worth it? Especially since Richard went there to escape the commercial rat race? “Oh my goodness, how can you even ask?” he laughs. “I am no longer a victim of the corporate world; I am the master of my own destiny and I love chocolate!”

Von Geusau Chocolates can be contacted at vgv@mweb.co.za or 028 254 9100.

12 | ART

6 March 2019

Hermanus' birds depicted in limited edition prints

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ocal artist and conservationist Duncan Butchart recently launched a series of limited edition prints that feature some of Hermanus’ most iconic coastal birds: the oystercatchers, gulls and plovers that we see along our shores every day.

In a departure from traditional wildlife art, in which realism is paramount, Butchart’s new works are highly stylised, with more emphasis on form and composition, than attention to detail.

In the artist’s own words: “These paintings have more in common with pop art than they do with most of the bird paintings seen in books and natural history museums.”

Duncan began drawing and painting as a young boy - with birds being his main topic and field of interest. Working in pencil, ink and watercolours, his illustrations have been published in nature journals, ornithological publications, field guides and books, including The Vultures of Africa, featuring 12 colour plates and over 100 pencil drawings. These artworks were exhibited at the Everard Read Gallery in Johannesburg. Duncan has also participated in other group exhibitions of wildlife art and has for many years been active in

conservation and research work. He has enjoyed a varied career as an artist, author, photographer, ecotourism consultant, publication designer and ecological project coordinator.

Duncan has always searched for fresh ways in which to depict the winged creatures that captivate him. Inspired by Belgian artist Hergé – who created the iconic 'Adventures of Tintin’ series – he now works in the same ‘lingé claire' (clear line) style to create strikingly simple images that nevertheless convey the true form, beauty and movement of his subjects. This ability comes from his years of observing, sketching, illustrating, photographing and writing about birds in Africa, and on five other continents. From owls to oystercatchers, and from detail to simplicity, Duncan’s depiction of birds has been a journey of discovery and change.

These vibrant and refreshing works are perfectly suited to those looking to create a seaside or beach theme when decorating spaces and can be viewed and purchased at Walker Bay Modern Art Gallery. Printed on acid-free cotton-rag paper (40x40cm) with archival inks, each giclee print is numbered and signed by the artist.

Local artist, writer and conservationist, Duncan Butchart in his studio in Vermont.

Artwalking our town

ABOVE: Geta Finlayson at her studio gallery in The Courtyard with her friends Larry Swantner and Dale Lautenbach.

The Art Alley in Harbour Road was a hive of activity during the First Fridays Artwalk on 1 March.

PHOTOS: Taylum Meyer & Hedda Mittner RIGHT: Cape Whale Coast Tourism Manager, Frieda Lloyd, admiring one of Duncan Butchart’s limited edition prints at Walker Bay Modern Art Gallery.

RIGHT: Jenny Jackson of Gallery 19 with fellow artist Sarah Abbott and Artwalker Mike Stegmann.

Marion da Silva was delighted with this painting of her dog, Mister Stanley, a commission by artist Petrus Viljoen of Art Thirst Gallery.

Brilliant Mushonga from Makiwa Gallery stands in front of some of his favourite art pieces.

ART | 13

6 March 2019

Friends of FynArts treated to a talk by Christopher Hope

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s the co-founder of Hermanus FynArts and steadfast adviser and supporter of this unique festival, award-winning novelist, travel writer, poet, journalist, playwright and broadcaster, Christopher Hope has become a familiar face in our town during FynArts, which takes place this year from 7 – 17 June.

These tondo artworks mounted on barrel heads were among the finalists in the 2018 Bouchard Finlayson Tollman Art Award Exhibition.

Bouchard Finlayson Tollman Art Award Bouchard Finlayson is inviting entries for the 2019 Tollman Bouchard Finlayson Art Award as part of the Hermanus FynArts Festival.

The Tollman family, owners of the Bouchard Finlayson Wine Estate, have long been great supporters of the arts in South Africa and are sponsoring the competition for the sixth consecutive year.

This unique national art competition awards a first prize of R20 000, second prize of R10 000, and two merit prizes of R5 000 each. The theme this year is ‘Harmony’ and artists are invited to submit their work in a tondo (round) format with a maximum diameter of 60 cm,

including the mount or frame.

A variety of media will be accepted including paper, canvas, board, perspex, fabric, embroidery, collage, mixed media, photography, digitally/mechanically produced and photo-based works. The deadline for entries is Friday 17 May 2019.

Once the winners have been announced, the works of between 50 and 60 finalists will be for sale and on display in the Bouchard Finlayson cellar as the ‘Tollman Bouchard Finlayson Barrel Head Exhibition’.

Further details and competition entry forms are available on www. hermanusfynarts.co.za

Friends of FynArts were treated to an exclusive bonus event last week when Christopher presented a talk at the Windsor Hotel entitled French Leave. This entertaining and enlightening personal account of French passions and peculiarities is based on his experiences as a foreigner in France, where he has lived in a medieval village in the Languedoc for 25 years, feeling “both at home and displaced at the same time”. Even after all these years, said Christopher, he still has trouble understanding the strangeness of the French temperament and the nuances of the French language, not to mention the nation’s idiosyncratic attitude to politics, sex and religion.

Travel Writing, a book reading from his latest novel, The Café de Move-on Blues and a discussion with Marilyn Martin about her new book Between Dreams and Reality, a history of SA’s pre-eminent art museum, The National Gallery, spanning the years 1871 – 2017.

Early Bird ticket sales are now open to the public until 15 March and the programme booklet is available from the Hermanus Tourism office in Mitchell Street, Hermanus Library, the FynArts Gallery in The Courtyard off Harbour Road, and selected galleries, restaurants and other businesses in Hermanus. The full programme can also be viewed on the website and bookings can be made via www.hermanusfynarts.co.za or www.webtickets.co.za.

Alternatively, book your tickets at the tourism office (tel: 028 312 2629) or any Pick n Pay branch nationwide. For enquiries or to become a Friend of FynArts, contact FynArts administrative coordinator Chantel Louskitt on 060 957 5371.

- Hedda Mittner

His endearing descriptions of the village of Caunes-Minervois (a “small, backward and distant village” in the eyes of sophisticated Parisians) and life in this “small island in a very big lake of vineyards” is captured in Signs of the Heart – Love and Death in Languedoc, published in 2000. Even though he used fictional names for the village and the characters he wrote about, Christopher said, when the book was translated into French, half the village was furious to find themselves in the book and the other half was furious because they weren’t.

Although the Spanish and Italians are sunnier and less problematic than the French, at the end of the day, Christopher said he still finds the French a most fascinatingly interesting people and he wholeheartedly agrees with the saying that “God lives in France”.

Christopher will be back at FynArts again this year, hosting a two-day workshop on

From left are Chantel Louskitt (FynArts administrative coordinator), Mandie van der Spuy (FynArts Advisory Board member), guest speaker Christopher Hope, Mary Faure (FynArts Director) and Martin Ranger (Chair of FynArts management committee).

WINE & DINE LISTINGS

Gecko Bar

At the Village Stall Hemel en Aarde Village T: 028 316 2407

New Harbour Hermanus T: 028 312 4665 Open daily from 11:00-02:00

Old Harbour T: 028 312 3454

Karmenaadjie

Burgundy Restaurant

Van Blommenstein St Onrus T: 028 316 2967

7 Harbour Road T: 028 312 2800

LB Seafood

Village Square Hermanus T: 028 312 3611

Shop 4, Village Square Market Street T: 028 312 1986 EAT Restaurant

Eden Café

Gateway Centre Hermanus T: 028 312 4439

Tapas

7 Harbour Road T: 028 312 4840

OPEN Tue-Sat 12:00-22:00 | Sun 12:00-16:00

Char’d Grill & Wine Bar

CLOSED Mon Tue-Sat 11:30-Late | Sun 11:30-15:00

Lunch 11:30-16:00 | Dinner 18:30-Late

High Street Hermanus T: 028 312 2848

Open daily from 11:00 for lunch & dinner

Section 4-6, The Village T: 028 316 2348

New Harbour Hermanus T: 028 313 0752

Rossi’s Italian Restaurant

Bientang’s Cave

Open daily from 08:00 - 21:00

Quayside Cabin

MOGG’S Restaurant

Wooden Barrel

Village Square T: 028 312 4377

Mon-Sun 08:00 - 21:30 \ Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner

Hemel-en-Aarde Valley Walker Bay Grill Hermanus 121T:10th Street, Voëlklip 076 314 0671 T: 12:00-14:30 028 314 1637 Wed-Sun

CALL US: 084 688 5885

CLOSED Mon & Tue

Pear Tree

Village Square Piazza T: 028 313 1224

GAS SUPPLIES

T: 028 312 2020

WHAT’S ON

OVERBERG Thursday

7

The Singing Cook Pensioner’s Special Do a good deed and take a senior out to lunch at this special venue, where the cook will even sing you a song as your meal is served. R135 pp. Book by calling 072 462 4271.

The Singing Cook, Rivendell Wine Estate | from 12:00 U3A Annual General Meeting The guest speaker at U3A Overberg’s AGM, Peter Bruce, will present a talk on Getting out of the hole: How South Africa can be great. Bruce is one of SA’s foremost journalists and news editors and an experienced and realistic commentator on South African affairs.

Sandbaai Hall | 17:30

ing in at the Sports Grounds around 11:30 on Saturday. Entry is R260 per team of 6 (men, woman or mixed teams) and R60 per individual. Open for all state departments, private clubs and individuals. Registration is at 12:00 on 7 March. Categories: Senior (up to 39 years), Veteran (40 - 49 years), Masters (50 years +) and Junior Development. On Day 2 there will also be an 8 km Schools’ Fun Walk (R20 per entry), rugby, netball and soccer tournaments, stalls, children’s activities and other entertainment and displays by SAPS and the Fire Brigade. For more information, contact Doulene on 028 384 1439 or doulene@gansbaaitourism.co.za Gansbaai Community Sports Centre | 09:00 Bhuki Café Everyone is welcome at Friends of the Library's Bhuki Cafe where a cup of tea or coffee and delicious eats will cost only R25, every Friday. Each cup helps to raise funds for new books.

Hermanus Library | 09:00 – 11:30 Kolwyntjie Teetuin Enjoy a sweet treat and tea or coffee at a nominal fee, and make new friends at the Onrus Care Centre (Dienssentrum), every Friday morning.

Onrus Dutch Reformed Church | 09:30 – 11:30

Rotary Club of Hermanus Visitors are welcome at Rotary’s weekly meetings, every Thursday.

Contact Frank on 082 870 1187 to confirm your attendance.

Mollergren Park, Main Road, Hermanus | 19:00

Friday

8

Hermanus Hacking Group Volunteers are welcome to join the HHG, every Friday morning. For more information contact Charlyn Vosloo on 082 558 8731 or charlynvosloo@ gmail.com Rotary Way | 06:15 – 08:30

EWASA SA Championship Endurance Walk This two-day, 75 km Endurance Walk starts at the Gansbaai Sports Grounds on Friday and covers 40 km on Day 1.

Day 2 is a 35 km walk from Helshoogte Farm, with the athletes com-

www.thevillagenews.co.za/whatson

Leonardo da Vinci and the Italian High Renaissance U3A presents a new series of DVD lectures by a world expert on Leonardo da Vinci, who was almost certainly the most multi-talented person who has ever lived. He excelled in at least ten fields of human creativity, from painting to calligraphy to the design of aircraft and other armaments, to poetry and the research and illustration of human anatomy. The topics of the next two lectures of 30 minutes each are: (1) Annunciation: Leonardo’s First Commission and (2) Another Kind of Portrait: Genevre de’ Benci.

Catholic Church Hall | 10:00 Rewind Join Soul Café every Friday night and relax to the tunes of their resident band as they perform all your favourite hits from the ‘60s, ‘70s and ‘80s.

R50 pp. Call 028 313 2137 to book.

Soul Café, 181 Main Road, Hermanus | 20:00

MANUFACTURERS OF SIMULATED STONE PRODUCTS

HERMANUS

Market in the Garden Hunt for treasures at this peaceful market set among the shady trees of a beautiful garden.

St Peter’s Church, Main Road, Hermanus | 09:00 – 13:00

Saturday

9

Hermanus parkrun Meet for the weekly 5 km timed walk or run, come rain or shine. Run for your own enjoyment at your own pace. The route is dog friendly and children are most welcome.

Camphill Road, Hemel-en-Aarde Valley | 08:00 Betty’s Bay parkrun Join this free weekly 5 km timed run (or walk) where it’s only you against the clock. The whole family is welcome. Grab a post-run coffee in the Red Disa restaurant with fellow parkrunners.

Harold Porter Botanical Garden | 08:00

Fynbos Explained The Hermanus Botanical Society presents a Fynbos course over five weeks on Saturday mornings, comprising two talks of an hour each, with a tea/coffee break in between. This week’s two topics are Endemic and large Cape genera by Chris Whitehouse and Aizoaceae and Asteraceae by Johann du Preez. The cost for BotSoc members is R100 per talk and for non-members R120 per talk or R240 per morning for both talks. The takings from this course will finance microscopes for BotSoc’s new Research Centre. To book contact Di Marais at maraisdianne@gmail.com or 028 312 1162.

Fernkloof Nature Reserve | 09:00

Hermanus Country Market A favourite among the locals. Young, old, two-legged and four-legged family members are all welcome. You’ll find wholesome goodies, homemade crafts, local produce, beers and wine, speciality foods, coffee and live music.

Next to Hermanus Cricket Field | 09:00 – 13:00 Die Markie Where local and international foodies and wine lovers meet. You’ll find real plates and real cutlery; real cups and real glasses; a real hangout for real people.

Hermanuspietersfontein wine cellar | 09:00 – 13:00 Stanford Saturday Morning Market Come and sample the artisanal delights on display, from home-made sheep and goats’ cheeses to cured meats, farm-fresh vegetables and deli delights to tantalise your taste buds!

Stanford Hotel Stoep | 09:00 – 12:00 Gansbaai Farmer’s Market Specialising in organic, homemade and homegrown products such as fresh farm produce, oven-fresh bakes and pastries, local wines and craft beers, and indigenous plants and herbs. No plastic or polystyrene packaging, only eco-friendly wood, paper, glass and earthenware used to display goods. For enquiries, contact 028 384 1439 or doulene@gansbaaitourism.co.za Kapokblom Street, opposite Gansbaai Tourism | 09:00 – 14:00

Baardskeerdersbos Bazaar People come from miles around to enjoy this annual church bazaar and once again, the BBos Orkes will entertain the throngs of visitors

from their tractor trailer stage. There will be entertainment for the whole family, including a jumping castle, games and prizes for the kids, crafts, pancakes, curry, kebabs, pudding, homemade ginger beer and boerewors rolls. Farm animals are auctioned as are massive farm breads, preserves and wine. For enquiries, contact doulene@gansbaaitourism. co.za or call 028 384 1439.

Baardskeerdersbos NG Kerk | 09:00 Build your own pizza Bring the kids to this child- and pet-friendly venue where they can learn to build their own pizza with The Singing Cook, Antonio da Silva-Swart. Only R55 per child, every Saturday. Book by calling 072 462 4271.

The Singing Cook, Rivendell Wine Estate | from 12:00

Passionately Porter Hermanus Rotary hosts Passionately Porter, a delightful evening of Cole Porter music by the talented Overberg Music Group, directed by Louna Stofberg. The cast includes Louna, Peter Finlayson, Pieter Stofberg, Dave Wright, Corne Kemp, Bea Whittaker, Louise Groenewald and Yolande Pieterse. They’ll perform songs such as I love Paris, I’ve got you under my skin, It’s De-Lovely, and Be a clown. Tickets are R150 pp in aid of the Rotary Education Fund. Bring your own picnic supper and drinks. To book, call Sue on 082 875 3814.

Grobbelaar Hall | 19:00

Sunday

10

Whale Coast Waveriders Local Surf Slam This Open Boadyboarding and Surfing Competition is for locals only and therefore all participants must reside in the Overstrand. The entry fee is R50 pp per division, which includes annual membership to the Whale

Cobbles

Cladding

Coping

Pavers

Landscaping

Tiles

Coast Waveriders Surf Club. There will be R5 000’s worth of prizes up for grabs. Entry fees must be paid by 12:00 on 8 March. Bank details: Whale Coast Waveriders, Capitec Acc. No. 1565101721, Branch 470010. Please use your name and surname as a reference with a ‘B’ for bodyboarding or/and an ‘S’ for surfing division.

No refunds and no beach entries available on the day. Indemnity forms are available from the Whale Coast Waveriders Facebook page, where the heat sheets will also be posted on Saturday 9 March. Prizegiving to follow at Hemel-en-Aarde Brewery.

Onrus Beach | 07:30 – 17:30 Summer Fun in the Courtyard Enjoy oysters and bubbly, local wines, craft beer and tapas-style plates, every Sunday. For more info or to reserve a table, call 082 082 0007.

The Wine Glass, 2 Harbour Road, Hermanus | from 12:00

Monday

11

Mining Fraud The topic of the last lecture in U3A Overberg’s Geoscience series is Mining Fraud, local and international - A Collage of Liars, Dreamers and Schemers, presented by Keith Kenyon of Keith Kenyon Consulting Pty. Ltd. Catholic Church Hall | 10:00 Duplicate Bridge All who enjoy bridge are welcome to join in, every Monday. For more information, call Riekie Louw on 028 314 0662.

Fernkloof Hall | 13:00 Mindful Mondays Join Wellness Coach Nicholas McLean and Ferdi Appelgryn, health and life coach from C Beyond Health, for a group session on Mindfulness, Movement and Meditation, every Monday.

Let go of stress and distraction, and realign body and mind to find inner focus and calm. R50 donation.

Contact Nicholas on 082 437 9776 or nicholas@guthealthyogi.com 6 Fynbos Crescent, Sandbaai | 18:00

Tuesday

12

Terrific Tuesdays Join Wellness Coach Nicholas McLean for a group session of BodySensing to release tension and restore energy and mobility. The feel-good movements of BodySensing will put the spring back into your body. Every Tuesday. The drop-in cost is R120 or R100 per session if paid monthly. For more info call Nicholas on 082 437 9776.

6 Fynbos Crescent, Sandbaai | 07:30 Cosmology Join the Hermanus Astronomy Centre for a presentation on Natural Philosophy: Science for the non-Scientist.

For more details, contact pierre@hermanus.co.za or HAC secretary Peter Harvey on 081 212 9481 or petermh@ hermanus.co.za Catholic Church Hall | 19:00

The Symphony Award-winning composer and historian-in-residence with the San Francisco Performers, Prof Robert Greenberg presents a series of DVD lectures for U3A Overberg on The Symphony. This week’s topic is The Mannheim Experience, delivered in Prof Greenberg’s unique style of lecturing which demonstrates commendable knowledge, humour and breadth of vision. R10 for U3A members and R25 for visitors.

Catholic Church Hall | 10:00 Gut Health Join Dr Arien for an informative talk on Gut Health, which is the logical and practical place to start for anyone embarking on a health journey. Find out why your gut is called the ‘second brain’, what your genes can tell you about your gut and the role of stress management. The cost is R150 pp and payment serves as booking confirmation. To book, contact 067 1166 111 or Hermanus@DrArien.co.za Arundel Medical Rooms, Westcliff | 17:30 for 18:00

Wednesday

13

Home Industries Market Get your fresh micro greens, home-processed and home-baked foods at this family-friendly market, every Wednesday. New vendors are welcome. Contact Lani on 082 679 7819 or visit www.afdaksrivier.co.za Café Tango & Afdaksrivier Nursery | 09:30 – 12:30 SAARP Monthly Club Meeting Join the Hermanus Social Club of the South African Association of Retired Persons for their monthly meeting, where the guest speaker, Vic Hamilton-Attwell will do a presentation on Spiders found in the Fernkloof Nature Reserve. For further information, contact Ingrid on 082 081 6889.

Sandbaai Hall | 09:30 – 11:45 Meditation for Beginners Let Dr Arien show you how to relax and unwind at will. Bring your own cushion or use chairs available. Attendance is free but booking is essential.

Contact 067 1166 111 or Hermanus@ DrArien.co.za Arundel Medical Rooms, Westcliff | 18:00 Jazz at Curro The Ramon Alexander Quartet returns to Curro for a round of free educational workshops focused on providing music students with more personal and practical learning experiences. Once again, the day of workshops will end off with a concert in the Curro Hall. Ramon Alexander is a pianist and composer with two albums and numerous collaborations with renowned artists who has been making waves on the Cape jazz scene

over the last couple of years. This concert is open to all Curro pupils, parents and staff as well as the broader Hermanus community. Bring your own picnic basket, snacks and drinks as there will be no alcohol, drinks or food for sale. Tickets cost R130 for adults and R80 for youths 18 years and younger, available at Webtickets or at Pick n Pay. For more information, contact lunapaigemusic@gmail.com Curro Hermanus | 19:00 (doors open at 18:00)

environment while unplugging with some unforgettable, quality family time in the forest. You’ll find all the details on www.reforestfest.com and tickets are available on www.quicket. co.za Platbos Forest | 14:00 Mood Swings Andrew Young makes a welcome return to Hermanus with his new show, Mood Swings. Classic favourites that will feature on the programme include Fly me to the moon, The way you look tonight, Stranger on the shore, and What a wonderful world, as well as Girl From Ipanema, Take 5 and Andrew’s very own AY’s Mambo.

Tickets are R150 pp, available from Computicket.

Municipal Auditorium | 19:30 (doors open at 19:00)

Saturday

Wednesday 13 March Jazz at Curro Venue: Hennie Mentz Hall, Curro Hermanus Adults R130 (incl. a complimentary drink) 18 and younger R80 Tickets at Webtickets / Pick 'n Pay Doors open 18:00 | Show starts 19:00 Bring your own picnic basket and drinks

Friday

15

Benevolent Golf Day Let the games begin at this popular annual charity golf day in aid of Sofca, Huis Lettie Theron and Hermanus Hospital. The format is a four ball alliance for individuals (tee-off from 07:00 – 08:52) and corporate teams (tee-off from 12:00 – 13:52). The cost is R330 per person or R2 600 per 4 ball. The golf day will be followed by prizegiving and dinner. For bookings, contact 028 312 1954/5.

Hermanus Golf Club | from 07:00

Reforest Fest Family Weekend Reforest Fest is Africa’s largest annual reforestation festival, bringing people together over two weekends in the Platbos Forest Reserve 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.

The first weekend from 15 – 17 March caters specifically for families and includes family-friendly activities such as games, crafting, theatre, workshops, yoga and forest walks for all ages. This is the ideal opportunity to make a positive impact on the

17

Sunday

Arno Carstens Live Platinum-selling and award-winning singer-songwriter Arno Carstens (aka the ‘Godfather of South African rock’) returns to Hermanus for a live performance that will include hits from his career as front man of the cult rock band Springbok Nude Girls, some popular cover tracks, many of the beloved and most celebrated songs from his career as an English solo artist, and tracks from his Afrikaans album Die Aandblom 13. Tickets are R200 pp. For bookings, call 028 312 4665.

The Gecko Bar, New Harbour | 20:30 (doors open at 19:00)

16

Self-Love: The heart of the matter At this three-hour workshop Dr Arien will share many techniques to enhance your body, mind, emotions and soul, by turning to the love-light within to radiate it without. The cost is R350 pp and payment serves as booking confirmation. Contact 067 1166 111 or Hermanus@DrArien.co.za Arundel Medical Rooms, Westcliff | 09:30 for 10:00 Valiant Swart Folk-rock singer and songwriter Valiant Swart will be performing live at Hermanus’ favourite late-night spot. Tickets are R110 pp. Call 028 313 2137 to book.

Soul Café, 181 Main Rd | 20:00

Monday

Connecting to your Creative Core Local artist Gillian Hahn presents another multi-media workshop where she’ll guide you in awakening your inner creativity and expressing the many layers within yourself. All art materials will be supplied. The cost is R300 pp and bookings are essential.

Bank details: Peter Hahn, Absa bank, Acc no. 9247347440, branch code 632005. For more information, contact 076 181 2964 or gillianhahn14@ gmail.com Gillian Hahn Art Studio, Southern Right Wine Estate, Hemel-en-Aarde Valley | 10:00 – 13:00

18

Hermanus History Society AGM The guest speaker at the HHS’s Annual General Meeting is Prof Howard Phillips who will present a talk on Black October 1918: The Spanish Flu Epidemic in South Africa, focusing on the country’s worst health crisis ever, which killed 350 000 South Africans in the space of 6 weeks – 6% of the entire population at the time. The Spanish flu was part of a global pandemic which carried off more than 50 million people around the world in 1918-19. It was brought to South Africa by soldiers returning from service in WWI. The well- illustrated lecture will explain how and why the epidemic rapidly spread throughout the land and examine responses to this all-engulfing crisis across the whole of South African life.

Catholic Church Hall | 15:30 – 17:30

GOT AN EVENT?

Send us an email to events@thevillagenews.co.za or send us a WhatsApp to 074 125 5854.

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We serve more than just great coffee! We are a trendy and truly South African coffee cafĂŠ offering genuine hospitality, an easygoing homely atmosphere, pleasing New York-meets-Karoo dĂŠcor, and a variety of superb menu items.

A cup above the rest. ab Shop: G43A | Tel: 028 312 2983 Shop: G57 | Tel: 028 312 1396 We boast two cinemas that show a selection of the latest blockbuster movies! Our Premier Theatre has 179 seats and doubles as a venue for live entertainment. The Beanbag Theatre has 30 large, super snug beanbags for our younger moviegoers. Both cinemas can be hired for functions or parties.

Founded in 1976, The Body Shop continues to bring its unique blend of ethical beauty with a sense of humour and serious purpose to the world. We search the globe for the finest, 100% vegetarian and ethically-sourced ingredients to create a range of naturally c inspired beauty products.

Shop: G8 | Tel: 028 312 3141 Shop: G37 | Tel: 083 406 9503 The Barber Shop, with its vintage flair, offers modern style cuts and the traditional hot towel shave.

The shop has become popular amongst young and old because our friendly barbers p rovide quality service whilst maintaining a high standard of cleanliness. No appointment needed!

WE ARE YOUR NEIGHBOUR

FOOD | 17

6 March 2019

Life’s about balance J annie Nel, who was the manager of Euodia Cycles for 10 years before it closed its doors, has joined forces with Michael Bayer in a new co-lab that brings cycling and coffee together under one roof.

At the opening of Village Cycles (just around the corner from Euodia’s premises at Hemel-en-Aarde Village) on Friday evening, cycling (and coffee) enthusiasts got together to wish the pair well on their new venture, which has the fitting motto of ‘Life’s about Balance’.

“Serious cyclists are usually also serious about their coffee,” Jannie told me. “The popularity of both has grown together.” While Village Cycles offers all the well-known cycling brands such as Merida, Canada and Titan, along with accessories and a full-on workshop, over at the Monday, Monday coffee bar in the shop the barista is ready to serve clients the kind of coffee for which cyclists are prepared to ride great distances.

Michael and his wife Elaine, who also own and run The Beanery are excited

about expanding their brand. The premises of Village Cycles, which include a shaded verandah, offer the ideal space for enjoying either a preor post-ride coffee, or while you wait to have your bike repaired.

Village Cycles is open Monday to Friday from 08:30 – 17:00, but Monday, Monday Roasting Worx serves coffee from 07:00. They are open on Saturdays until 12:00 and closed on Sundays. Contact them on 028 316 3418 or info@village cycles.co.za Johann van der Merwe with Michael and Elaine Bayer.

Jannie Nel and Michael Bayer have brought cycling and coffee together in their new co-lab, Village Cycles and Monday, Monday Roasting Worx.

Whinzay Fourie and Caroline Gabb drinking a toast to Jannie and Michael’s new venture.

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18

6 March 2019

www.thevillagenews.co.za

Financial Matters

Anglo and the South African budget

By Janet Hugo CFP Director – Sterling Private Clients

T

he Minister of Finance and Anglo American Ltd., that venerable JSE mining company that has added so much wealth to this country over the years, both reported on February 20th.

As I was listening to Minister Tito Mboweni’s budget speech, I noticed that the JSE was holding its own, even a bit firmer. A good friend who is a clever institutional investor, commented that the JSE’s resilience seemed to have more to do with Anglo’s solid results and positive earnings outlook, than any positive surprises in the national budget.

Yet the budget also seemed to calm some anxious investors. The Rand, which is sometimes referred to as the share price of South Africa, even managed to strengthen 3.7% from worst intraday levels of budget day – and Anglo was up about 3%. Grizzled investors remember the days when Anglo’s doing well meant South Africa Inc. would thrive too. Let’s hope that’s the case now.

Much has been said about the budget, so I’m not going to bore you with the details in this article. Yes, it was a stealth-take budget, with bracket creep and inflation doing the most damage to tax payers. Sin taxes and

sugar taxes have increased; there is also the pain of extra taxes on fuel, all low-hanging fruit that government just couldn’t resist. The fuel tax hurts the economy: all prices eventually rise, with the overtaxed earner feeling it now and later. Another concern is that carbon taxes are due to add costs to embattled producers and manufacturers from April, with the biggest environmental culprit being Eskom. The budget also left many questions about costs and growth unanswered.

We know that the country is in an economic crisis and we certainly experience the social pressures that come along with it. Yet, let’s focus in this article on factors that give cause for hope and maybe some gentle optimism that we are starting to create a window for turnaround in South Africa.

While at a conference at the London Stock Exchange two weeks ago, an interesting fund manager who assesses company strategies and success prospects, mentioned that Anglo had appeared on their radar screen when management finally stopped blaming a difficult resource environment and stopped making excuses. I remember the shock in 2016 when Anglo subjected its investors to an unimaginable tough love strategy, choosing not to pay a dividend after decades of doing so, whether earnings were up or down.

Between 2013 and 2016 they owned

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up to the mess they were in, changed management and refocused their energy on rebuilding their business to its once proud position. The share price bottomed in 2016 at R51, but has recovered some 729% to where it is now at around R370. The company remains primarily a powerful, globally-diversified mining resource company, with 60% of its earnings (EBITDA) coming from outside of South Africa.

The point is that management faced up to their problems, fixed many of them, and have done some really good work in the last few years, despite still being in a difficult resource environment. According to one estimate, Anglo’s managed to bring its debt down by 37% and the company is paying regular dividends again.

So, how does this relate to South Africa? Minister Mboweni delivered some hard messages in his speech.

Given that the ANC has shied away from confronting some difficult facts in the last decade, this was a bold move, particularly in the light of the looming election. For instance, ahead of the budget, many an analyst believed that government would take on all of Eskom’s debt. The comment from the Minister was that: “National Treasury is unwilling to take on the debt as it believes it would incentivise the wrong behaviour.” This is a good thing.

Yes, government is going to help Eskom with some handouts – R22 bil-

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lion to start with, and more to come.

We don’t yet know how dividing Eskom in three will turn the business model around, but there is an active search for solutions. We also need to remember that the ratings agencies already view government and state-owned enterprises, including Eskom, as the same debt problem for taxpayers to carry. But the positive take-away is that some in government are starting to face facts and do something, as opposed to ignoring the problem.

National Treasury has also been consulting the ratings agencies, with a new note of transparency coming through. There also seems to be a desire to include top business leaders and past advisors like Roelf Meyer and Sir Mick Davis in the process.

Moody's has noted that Eskom needs to produce a credible plan, with immediate cost-reductions – and one that indicates that government and Treasury will involve business.

Other pointers that perhaps give hope: • President Zuma was removed and the corruption charges against him were reinstated.

• There was a cabinet reshuffle, removing twelve corruption-implicated ministers. We now have a Minister of Finance who is internationally wellrespected.

• The heads of the National Prosecuting Authority (NPA) and SARS have been suspended and a new NPA head

has been appointed.

• There have been substantial changes at board level at the SOEs (Eskom, Transnet, Denel, SA Express and Prasa).

• Fifty billion Dollars in Foreign Direct Investment have been secured in relation to the goal of $100bn over 5 years.

• The public sector wage increase agreement has been settled at 6% – 7% for the next three years. This is the lowest increase in recent years.

Minister Mboweni also mentioned that government employees would be encouraged to take early retirement.

• There was an announcement of a R50bn package to reprioritise labourintensive sectors.

Yes, there is more to be done and yet, it seems that like Anglo, government has reassessed its strategy. It’s a positive indicator that they are focusing more on accountability, deliverables, skills development and cost reduction, to take advantage of growth opportunities.

This is by no means a recommendation to buy Anglo shares now. That’s a subject for another time. Yet management turned a losing company into a winner. This provides encouragement to people of goodwill to do more of the right things and to hold onto some hope for South Africa. With the Rand at current levels, evaluate whether your portfolio is correctly diversified on a global basis. The ride is not going to be easy.

6 March 2019

19

www.thevillagenews.co.za

A space of beauty and remembrance Writer & Photographer Sarah Taylor

T

he Hermanus Cemetery is being given a new lease on life thanks to the drive of local resident Melanie Moore. She is encouraging fellow Overstranders to contribute to this cemetery project by sponsoring R250 for a white cross or by donating water-wise and suitable flowering plants, especially Gazanias at this time of year.

Motivated to add some beauty to the formerly depressing-looking cemetery in Magnolia Street, Melanie initiated the planting of trees and suitable flowering plants in 2018.

While she used her own funds at first, she is now appealing to members of the community to join in.

“We know people want to help but they don’t necessarily have time to buy plants and plant them out, so with the assistance of Walker Bay Nursery and Fynbos Nursery, we have made it a little easier,” says Melanie.

“People can visit the nurseries in March and April, buy a container or two of Gazania plants and tell the staff they are donations for the cemetery project. This will be recorded so that I can then pick up the plants at the end of each week for planting.

Donations of Gazanias from private gardens are also very welcome. We are planting these bright and colourful plants on the unmarked children’s graves.”

Even though Melanie does not have

any direct personal connection to the graveyard, she felt inspired to help transform it positively. “A big part of the attraction for me to do this is to beautify something that was quite ugly,” says the former Cape Town teacher. Melanie and her husband returned to South Africa in 2015 after 15 years of living in Switzerland and travelling the world. Melanie was particularly inspired by the beauty and structure of formal European gardens and cemeteries.

“In Europe, it’s a totally different situation. There, the cemeteries are situated next to churches so they are better looked after,” explains Melanie. “In South Africa, cemeteries tend to be located on the edges of towns. With the growth of Hermanus, this central cemetery is now very much part of the town, surrounded by churches, schools and sports grounds.”

Melanie has already had 100 crosses made and planted in the graveyard for those buried in unmarked graves.

She paid for the first 50 and had a donation for the subsequent 50.

Twenty-three of these have been erected to date, and the municipality has agreed to paint and plant the remaining 77. She says there is space for 200 crosses in total.

“I’d love to have them all planted

by Easter as a symbol of our gratitude and as a sign of respect for the deceased.”

She was inspired by the striking Arlington National Cemetery in the US to have the concrete white crosses

made and planted on the old, unmarked graves. The crosses are made in Gansbaai by a cement worker.

“This can be our little Arlington,” she enthuses. The February fire which ravaged parts of Fernkloof bordering Northcliff and Hermanus Heights also burnt some of the trees that Melanie had previously planted on the northern perimeter of the cemetery, including six coastal oaks and three Outeniqua yellowwoods.

She has also been “keeping the municipality on its toes” by encouraging them to paint the perimeter walls and retarring the broken roads leading through the cemetery. The municipality has said the latter will be done in April.

Indigenous and waterwise plants that Melanie feels will do well at the

cemetery are agapanthus, bougainvillea and the yellow- and pink-flowering vygies (especially the sour fig, Carpobrotus edulis), all of which residents are welcome to donate. She is grateful to retired resident Hannes Tredoux, who sponsored the site’s first sprinkler system in 2018, for the agapanthus.

“Keeping this cemetery beautiful is a continuous process,” says Melanie.

She has begun working with some Hermanus High School pupils who are doing their community work there, planting, weeding, watering and generally upgrading the area. “As with any normal garden, this one will keep on growing. It just needs love and care and a small bit of water. My vision is to see this once depressing eyesore of a ‘dead’ area turned into a colourful, uplifting and beautiful

space for our community.”

Melanie’s vision also extends to holding a commemorative ‘day of the dead’ in November, complete with lights and music. “Many people are afraid to visit the graves of their loved ones on their own. By beautifying the cemetery and holding events such as the November commemorative Sunday, hopefully people will feel more comfortable to visit it. I dream of having a light classical music concert at the cemetery, during which doves (homing pigeons) could be released in a symbolic gesture.”

For more information or to assist with this project, contact Melanie Moore on 071 239 6646 / 028 314 0076 or melanie.ronell.moore@ gmail.com

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MY WELLNESS Youthful Keeping your gut Living happy and healthy By Dr Arien van der Merwe

G

ut health plays an important role in our overall wellbeing.

But what does it really mean and how can you improve your gut health? Basically, it entails reinstating homeostasis (internal balance) in your microbiome. So what on earth is a microbiome?

Definition and introduction The microbiome is the full complement of the genes contained in all the microbes – tiny living single cell organisms and the oldest form of life on earth – found throughout the human body. Microbes are everywhere. They’re found in air, soil, water, human bodies and all other living bodies and plants. They cover every surface of our bodies, inside and out.

They’re on our skin, inside our noses, mouths and respiratory tract, plentiful in our digestive tract, reproductive system, and so on. These microscopic life forms consist of thousands of species and outnumber our own 50 trillion cells by about 10 to 1.

Our endosymbiotic (‘endo-’ means living inside us in symbiosis, closely connected, to the benefit of both parties) microbiome can be considered a newly discovered, still largely unexplored system, with numerous functions essential to human life.

Very few microbes actually cause disease and in fact, many are essential for homeostasis (internal balance),

which is important for good health.

They are key to a healthy immune and digestive system.

Upsetting the balance As a society we have become too clean, overly conscious of hygiene!

For example, forgetting that babies do require some exposure to various organisms to develop immunity, we over sterilise their bottles and toys, thereby killing the beneficial flora or microbes, leading to Candida overgrowth (thrush).

We also misuse antibiotics, killing our own microbiome, once again causing overgrowth of Candida leading to yeast infection. Candida albicans is also a normal part of our gut environment, but needs to be kept in balance by our innate intestinal flora or gut microbes. Antibiotics (meaning ‘against life’) kill our normal flora, leaving fungi, yeasts and viruses to flourish, while disturbing our inner balance and immune system health.

Many of our modern, Western diseases have to do with nutritional deficiencies (from the wrong food choices we make) and autoimmune diseases where the white blood cells of our bodies attack their own cells.

More and more research shows the possible connections to the human microbiome, dysbiosis (microbial imbalances) and chronic diseases.

These include arthritis, gum disease, diabetes, skin problems, obesity and cardiovascular (heart and blood vessel) disease – all of which have slow-burning chronic inflammation at their core.

Hermanus Pharmacy/Clinic 145 Main Road, Hermanus Tel: 028 312 4039

brenda@hermanuspharmacy.co.za Hours: Mon-Fri 08:0 - 18:30 Sat 08:00 - 13:00 & 18:30 - 19:30 Sundays & Public Holidays 10:00 - 12:00 & 18:30 - 19:30 Clinic hours: Mon-Fri 08:30 - 14:30

Of course, inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) is directly linked to dysbiosis inside the digestive tract. IBD includes irritable bowel syndrome (IBS or spastic colon), Crohn’s disease and ulcerative colitis (regarded as autoimmune diseases), with their associated symptoms, ranging from persistent and painful diarrhoea to bloating, indigestion, stomach cramps and food intolerances.

There is some evidence to connect IBD to immunity-related genes, but what’s the trigger? Evidence is pointing to the microbiome and imbalance in gut microbes as well as an imbalance in lifestyle, with chronically high levels of stress. Instead of crippling immune systems with immunosuppressive drugs, I’d rather prescribe an improved set of bugs (gut microbes or probiotics) to patients with IBD! Pre- and probiotics Billions of microorganisms live on and inside us (our microbiome). Most are beneficial, with only some potential pathogens. The beneficial ones are called probiotic microorganisms.

Lactobacillus acidophilus bacteria reside mostly in the small intestine, and Bifidobacterium bifidum is found in the large intestine (colon).

Probiotics improve the environment of the intestinal tract. The regular use of probiotics is important in healing many chronic gastrointestinal problems and allergies. Some experts feel that children with allergic tendencies need several times the amount of probiotics than those without GI problems, due to the frequency of

dysbiosis (overgrowth of yeast, bacteria, etc.) and ‘leaky gut syndrome’ (increased intestinal permeability).

Examples of well-known probiotics include Saccharomyces boulardii, Lactobacillus acidodiphilus and Bifidobacterium bifidus, to restore normal gut flora, improve immune system function and assist in digestion and absorption of food. Also helpful are the pre-biotics, inulin and fructo-oligosaccharides (or FOS, found in artichokes, onions, garlic, bananas and specific supplements).

FOS and inulin are non-digestible oligosaccharides that help promote the growth and activity of friendly bacteria in the intestinal tract. These are called 'pre-biotics' because they are thought to help promote probiotic colonisation and growth. These oligosaccharides are non-caloric compounds that cannot be broken down by our digestive enzymes and therefore do not adversely affect blood sugar levels. Research has shown that both FOS and inulin enhance the growth of lactic bacteria, especially bifidobacteria, and inhibit the growth of a variety of undesirable organisms.

infections • Inhibition of disease-causing organisms • Improved digestion, increased nutrient absorption and vitamin synthesis • Reintroduction of healthy bacteria into the digestive system. This is especially helpful to restore balance where Helicobacter pylori plays a role in peptic ulcers.

• Detoxification and protection from toxins • Prevention of diarrhoea from various causes • Reduction in the risk of irritable bowel diseases • Cancer-protective effects.

Digestive enzymes are also very helpful in restoring balance to the intestinal flora population. These can be found in supplement combinations containing pancreatic enzymes (amylase, protease, sucrase, malt diastase, lipase, cellulose, lactase), papain from paw-paw, bromelain from pineapple stem and cultured moulds from Aspergillus species.

Excellent food sources of pre- and probiotics include Kombucha, Kefir, fermented food and yoghurt with live cultures.

Probiotics are helpful in restoring balance inside the digestive system.

If anyone does need an antibiotic for severe bacterial infection (e.g. pneumonia or meningitis) or suffers from any allergies, be sure to include probiotics to improve gut and immune system health.

Scientific studies over the last 50 years show that probiotic organisms can improve the nutritional quality of foods, produce natural antibiotics, anti-carcinogens, and substances that break down and assist in secretion of toxins inside their human host.

The major benefits of adding probiotic organisms to the diet: • Support of the immune system • Improved resistance to allergies • Reduction in yeast and other

Dr Arien van der Merwe is a medical doctor, specialist holistic health counsellor and stress management consultant, corporate health & wellness service provider and author.

Address: Arundel Medical Rooms & Training Centre, 1st Floor, c/o Church & Arundel St (opposite Mediclinic), Westcliff, Hermanus Tel: 067 1166 111 Email: Hermanus@DrArien.co.za Website: www.DrArien.co.za

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Raising funds for CANSA

The Hermanus Bowling club raised the sum of R3 430 during their CANSA Day Tournament on 27 February. A total of 104 players participated on the day, with Tertia Jaars from CANSA addressing the players at tea time. Her message highlighted the importance of cancer awareness and what one should be on the lookout for. She also explained how the funds collected would be allocated. Bowling Club President Alick Bruce-Brand said they are proud and privileged to have made a contribution to the fight against cancer.

“On behalf of the members of the club, as well as a few overseas visitors, I would like to thank everyone of you for your kind donations and for participating in this day. Also, a special word of the thanks to Andrit Massey for sponsoring the snacks at tea time. Pictured are Club Captain Elsie McGeoch, Tertia Jaars from CANSA and Club President Alick Bruce-Brand.

Locals and visitors to Hermanus showed their support for CANSA’s ‘Colouring Hope’ Shavathon on Saturday 2 March by donating their hair to make wigs for cancer patients experiencing hair loss. The Shavathon is a nationwide event where members of the community volunteer to either have their heads shaven or to have their hair spray painted in different colours to help CANSA raise funds and create awareness. The funds raised will go towards CANSA’s care and support programmes for cancer survivors and their loved ones. Six-year-old Emily Malherbe from Ashton and her family were visiting relatives in Hermanus when they decided to show their support for the CANSA Shavathon at the Whale Coast Mall. Emily’s hair was spray painted with bright colours while her brother had his head shaved. Estelle Stout (left in black) from Allure Hair Couture in Sandbaai volunteers every year to help with the hair spraying and shaving.

PHOTO: Taylum Meyer

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March Aquamarine

The aquamarine promotes good health, as it’s thought to help cure heart, liver and stomach diseases, all that had to be done was to drink the water in which the gem had been soaking.

Aquamarine is a symbol of honesty, loyalty and beauty.

It brings love and affection back into a failing relationship.

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MY HOME GAS INSTALLATIONS

T: 028 312 2020 A: 8 Arum St, Hermanus Industrial

Hermanus property market in a perfect storm result”. According to the Urban Dictionary a perfect storm arises “when three events, usually beyond one's control, converge and create a large inconvenience for an individual”.

By Stephen de Stadler Managing Director Fine & Country Hermanus, Arabella and Kleinmond

I

played golf with some friends at Hermanus Golf Course on Wednesday. For the record, while the course was presented to the high standard the members have come to expect, my level of play was at best acceptable. One member of our four ball asked me whether we were seeing any positive growth and movement in the residential property market, and my simple response was lots of sellers, lots of interest from buyers, but not a lot of sales. His analysis of the situation was that the local property market may well be experiencing a perfect storm.

Collins English Dictionary defines a perfect storm as “an unusual combination of events or things that produce an unusually bad or powerful

Whilst the property market has always moved in cycles, specifically relevant to this part of the Overberg, over the course of the last year we have seen a number of events which have negatively affected the local market. These include the land protests which had cut off access to Hermanus, the ongoing discussions about land expropriation without compensation, the recent devastating fires, and an upcoming national election in 2019, the outcome of which is not necessarily as certain as it has been for the last 25 years.

As property professionals we really do understand why a potential buyer may well be waiting for May and the outcome of the elections. They know that in the lead up to this event the

various political players will present their party manifestos as well their own opinions, which whether you agree with them or not, at least give some clarity as to future direction.

Working and living in a known environment is so much easier and more comfortable than dealing with the uncertain and the unknown.

South Africa’s Finance Minister, the Honourable Tito Mboweni delivered his 2019 Budget speech on 20 February. He emphasised that his budget needed to support the President’s “ambitious agenda for our nation”, which is “an agenda that speaks to the South Africa that we can be”.

He indicated that economic growth is estimated at 0.7% for 2018, rising to 1% in 2019, and forecast to moderately strengthen to 2% in 2021. He acknowledged that “a robust debate on land is taking place in South Africa”. The government is supporting private sector investment in agricul-

The views expressed below are those of the writer in his personal capacity and may not necessarily reflect the views of Fine & Country as a national and international brand.

ture by emerging farmers by setting aside R1.8 billion for 262 so-called priority land reform projects over the next three years, as well as R3.7 billion to assist emerging farmers to acquire land on which to farm.

Access to social housing was also addressed with the allocation of R14.7 billion in 2020 and 2021 to two new conditional grants for the upgrading of informal settlements so that these households will have access to basic amenities. The Help to Buy subsidy will also help first-time homeowners to purchase a home, as R950 million is allocated to this pilot initiative.

The proof is always in the delivery, but the mere identification of the very real problems and the allocation of government funding to those problems will help to reduce uncertainty and allow a level of normality to return to the property markets. As previously mentioned in this column, sellers need to understand that their capital growth rates cannot continue at levels way above the economic growth rates for the country as a whole, and realistic expectations of growth and value will ultimately result in property sales.

Minister Mboweni ended his budget speech by saying that government was taking steps to fix both the fiscal position and state-owned enterprises. “Madam Speaker, this is a budget that plants a seed for renewal and growth”. It is encouraging that government are not burying their heads in the sand any longer and are recognising the need for renewal, for change and for growth.

Is the local property market experiencing a perfect storm? I believe so, but going back to the earliest recorded natural events and disasters is that the storms will always pass. No matter how long it takes, the good weather does in the end return, often accompanied by that natural beauty, the rainbow.

The social housing issues are being addressed (albeit slowly), land expropriation without compensation is not generally seen as a reality but rather as an emotive call for political action.

The fires have been contained and the elections will be held in May. The removal of the contributing factors for a perfect storm will result in the return of better weather and that elusive rainbow.

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Communicating one on one, soul to soul Writer Elaine Davie

it wants to send you; about listening.

(The name of her practice is appropriate: Paws and Listen.) And then it’s about a shared energy passing between us.” Often, before engaging with an animal, she needs to become completely still, to focus on it in a state of total silence (even switching off her cochlear device).

H

ermanus resident, Naomi Pretorius is an animal whisperer.

Of course, most of her clients are dogs and cats, or farm animals like cows and horses, but she has also been known to have illuminating exchanges with some of our closest relatives – gorillas, chimpanzees and orang-utans.

We need only watch a small child interact with a puppy to know that real communication is possible between humans and animals. But perhaps it was the physical trauma that Naomi experienced as an adult that placed her in a space where she was forced to develop her intuitive sensibility to such a degree that she was able to tune in to the feelings and experiences of animals.

She describes her past self as a tough businesswoman, an estate agent, subject to severe migraines, but otherwise driven, fully integrated into a frenetic city lifestyle. Then, one day, her brain exploded. She was rushed to hospital, tests were done, a malignant tumour detected on her brain stem which had ruptured. Her family was told she had a 5% chance of survival. Emergency surgery was followed by intensive chemotherapy and radiation. She grabbed

Naomi Pretorius and BoyBoy get down to some serious communication. that 5% chance, but it left her deaf, unable to walk and with a speech defect.

Shortly before this shattering event, a colleague had taken her to an animal whispering workshop and, although sceptical, she discovered that she was able to connect with her own dog which had itself just undergone surgery for the removal of a non-malignant tumour. After her own trauma, she and her husband were forced to reassess their future. She longed for a simple life, stripped of clutter and distraction. They moved to Hermanus.

Gradually, as she literally found her feet here, she began to take a more serious interest in communicating with animals. She started attending workshops and completed an animal behaviour training course. There was no doubt about it, she had the gift.

In the past 21 years in which she has been a whisperer, Naomi has had many amazing experiences with animals of all kinds. She is proud to say that not once has she been rejected.

“It’s never about talking to the animal,” she says, “it’s about being open to receiving the message that

Naomi works a lot with rescue animals, mostly dogs, who have been traumatised. “New owners are often desperate to know what happened to the dog before it was rescued,” she explains, “but you have to understand that history is not important to animals; they live entirely in the present.

Previous experiences, good or bad, may be deeply embedded in their psyche, but I work with who they are on that particular day. They tell me what they want me to know.”

Horses are amongst her favourites, because of their sensitivity. “I had a friend who was an equine therapist and I watched her working with autistic children and horses. Those children are very special; they have a foot in two worlds which is very confusing for them, but the horses understand and the relationships I have seen developing between them are truly incredible. The children calm down and the horses provide them with a wonderful sense of security. I watched a child banging two sticks together obsessively to a particular

A happy-ending story Mufasa was the name of the terrified 11-month-old puppy with the long gangly legs when ‘swallow’, Anna Kloppers collected him from HAWS in October last year. She had offered to foster him while she was in Hermanus and try to settle him down with lots of TLC. He had been badly abused.

“I have never met a more traumatised dog in my life,” says Anna. “He spent all his time hiding in dark corners, or under beds or bushes. It looked as if his spirit had been completely broken.” Enter a life-saving team in the form of dog whisperer, Naomi Pretorius and Sweetie, the laid-back

“It was amazing”, says Anna, “he instantly responded to Naomi and Sweetie, who set about teaching him to play and be a dog. And that was the beginning of his complete transformation. He even got a new name – BoyBoy – to which he immediately responded. You cannot believe what a happy, friendly, energetic boy he has become. He especially loves other dogs and playing with them on the beach.

The problem was that she would shortly be returning to Canada. “I will be heart-broken to leave him behind,

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From time to time, Naomi is asked to be present when a pet has to be euthanised. The owner is understandably overwrought, but she says she has never encountered an animal that is afraid of dying; they see it as completely natural, part of life.

Naomi has achieved an enviable reputation as an animal whisperer and her clients are dispersed across this country and even the globe. She is concerned about charlatans, though, for the damage they may do to the animals and she urges potential clients to check behaviourists’ credentials before using them. For her, the welfare of the animal is always paramount.

Pets are part of a family and they must be treated with the same respect as any other family member, she insists. She counts herself deeply privileged to have formed healing relationships with so many individual animals, including a pair of wayward chimps in Tanzania, a young gorilla in Rwanda and a rebellious orang-utan in Borneo.

Naomi can be contacted on email: pawsandlistenza@gmail.com or 083 2263526

PHOTOS: Taylum Meyer

Labrador.

ACHIEVER

rhythm and the horse adapted its stride to the same rhythm until the child relaxed.”

but I’m determined to find BoyBoy the best possible forever home”, she told us. Any would-be adoptive parent had to meet very stringent criteria, though, and she was worried that she would never find someone good enough for him.

But this is the GOOD NEWS! The ideal person unexpectedly stepped into Anna and BoyBoy’s lives last week. James has a farm at Wolwegat near Pearly Beach and four other rescue dogs, including Archie, a few months younger than BoyBoy. “From the moment they saw one another, they started playing and have never stopped. It’s a match made in heav-

en,” smiles a very relieved Anna. With instructions from Naomi to the dogs, as well as to both the old and the new parents, the future looks rosy.

“I have been pestering James night and day to check that the arrangement truly is working – it seemed too good to be true,” comments Anna “and I was so touched when I received a WhatsApp from him saying that I could come and visit BoyBoy anytime I wanted to in the future and keep in touch to find out how he’s doing. He ended his message by saying, ‘remember he will always remain your little boy and he will never ever forget you.’”

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MY ENVIRONMENT

Become a Friend of Phillipskop There is always something new and different to see at Phillipskop Mountain Reserve just outside Stanford. Over 700 plant species have now been recorded on the reserve and the flowers in bloom constantly change through the year so that the fynbos never gets dull.

A good variety of animal and bird life is also present throughout the year, from the resident Klipspringers, Cape Grysbok, Rock Hyrax and beautiful Orange-breasted Sunbirds, to the endangered Black Harrier or magnificent Verreaux’s Eagle. The shyer animals on the reserve are harder to spot, but visitors can often see spoor left by nocturnal wildlife, including Porcupines, Large-spotted Genets and Caracal. The observant will also see scratch marks on trees, left by one of the Cape Leopards that are known to traverse the mountains.

It’s a frog’s life

Phillipskop would like to invite you to become a Friend of Phillipskop.

This initiative encourages visitors, especially locals, to explore the reserve more frequently and to get a taste of all seasons. For an annual conservation fee of just R150 per adult, Friends will be able to gain access to the reserve throughout the year during opening hours (08:00 – 17:00 daily). This is less than the cost of four visits, so even if you plan to visit only once per season, it will save you money.

Rain Frogs are rotund frogs (Breviceps gibbosus) with short legs and almost no necks and they only appear when it rains.

PHOTO: Chad Keates

As a Friend, you will also be supporting the conservation work of the reserve: maintaining footpaths, clearing the invasive aliens (a never-ending task), and recording, monitoring and protecting the plant and animal life. Some of the key conservation findings on the reserve include the discovery of the rare Montane Marsh Frog, thereby extending its known range; recording the Cape Rock Elephant Shrew in the Klein River Mountains for the first time; and finding an endangered species of Erica, last seen in the Hermanus area 80 year ago.

Phillipskop is also the home of the important heritage site, Phillipskop Cave, which has the only recorded rock art on the Cape Whale Coast.

Writer Anina Lee

W

hale Coast Conservation recently hosted a talk on frogs by Dr Louis du Preez, Zoology Professor at North-West University and one of the co-authors of the most authoritative guide to the frogs of Southern Africa. The large audience was both informed and entertained by the descriptions of some of our local frogs.

for the eggs to develop into tadpoles and then into little frogs. There they will remain until the next rain.

Rain Frogs Rain Frogs are certainly fascinating.

They are called rain frogs (Breviceps, meaning short head) because they only appear when it rains. They are rotund frogs with short legs and almost no necks – hence the name ‘short head’. They puff themselves up even rounder when they are stressed, and emit a fearsome squeak when threatened. They spend most of their lives in a nest deep underground.

They only venture to the surface when the rain comes and it’s time to feed and breed.

Bullfrogs also spend a lot of time holed up in an underground burrow.

During drought periods they can stay underground for many years in a state of stasis or aestivation. The frog shuts down its body metabolism to almost zero, just existing on the small amount of oxygen in the ground.

When heavy rain falls the unconscious frog immediately wakes up to full alertness, digs himself out of a hole and gathers, with hundreds of other bullfrogs, in the nearest puddle.

The male frogs whistle for a mate and she will respond, unlike her human counterpart. But she is so rotund that the smaller male can’t get a grip on her, so she secretes a “glue” to glue him to her back while they withdraw together to the underground nest.

G

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Unlike most frogs, the rain frogs don’t lay their eggs in water; in fact their round bodies and very short legs make them really poor swimmers and they are likely to drown. After she has spawned her eggs, and he has fertilised them, she will release the male. The female then lays a few more unfertilised eggs that will liquefy to make a nice soggy environment

African Bullfrog The African Bullfrog displays very interesting behaviour (for a frog).

It cares for its offspring. And what’s more, it’s the male frog that does the caring.

There the males vie for female attention but, in the end, they all spawn in the same puddle and then disperse, except for one male that stays behind to mind the eggs. The tadpoles soon hatch, guarded by a fearsome protector who thinks nothing of attacking any animals (including cattle) that dare to drink at his puddle. If any tadpoles are trapped in the cattle footprints, the frog daddy will dig a channel to the main pool and, vibrating his vocal chords, will call the tadpoles to heel and lead them, like the pied piper, back into the fold. A case of daddy day-and-night care.

Common Platanna Many of us remember that in the 1930s Xenopus leavis, or common pla-

tanna, was shipped all over the world as the first reliable pregnancy test. If injected with the urine of a pregnant woman (containing the pregnancy hormone, human chorionic gonadotropin), it will induce ovulation in a female platanna and she will very shortly start to produce eggs.

However, better and less weird pregnancy tests soon came on the market and the good old platannas that had been kept in laboratories in Europe and the Americas were simply dumped into the nearest stream.

By becoming a Friend of Phillipskop, you will be able to enjoy more of what Phillipskop has to offer. You will also be informed of any conservation news, activities or special offers that come up during the year.

An annual card can be obtained by filling in the form at Reception on your next visit to Phillipskop.

Visit their website at www.phillipskop.co.za or contact 073 621 1808 / info@phillipskop.co.za

As a result our indigenous platanna or clawed toad is a world citizen (albeit an invasive alien). The common platanna is also invasive in the Western Cape where it is either displacing or hybridising with the highly endangered Cape Platanna. The latter is also under pressure because their habitat of clean, acidic, brown mountain water is increasingly polluted by human expansion.

The Common Platanna also helps to explain the fairy tale in which a princess kisses a frog, and a prince appears before her eyes. The princess is naturally very happy at this turn of events. In the fairy tale this is attributed to magic. However, we now know that the platanna’s skin secretes serotonin, a substance widely known to elevate mood and make people feel happy. Maybe the princess was made so happy by the kiss that she only thought her frog was a prince.

I fear that many a modern maiden discovers, with time, that what she thought was a prince turns out to be just a frog – and an ugly one at that.

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Carnival time!

Riding high with BMX

Screams of joy and laughter could be heard far from the school grounds as the annual Hermanus Primary Carnival got into full swing on Friday afternoon, 1 March. This year’s theme was ‘Under the Sea’ and the children were treated to a variety of fun activities that included jumping castles, mechanical bull rides, a foam pit and more. There were also tents filled with goodies to snack on and live music that provided entertainment until sunset.

PHOTOS: Taylum Meyer

The Overberg BMX Club hosted a fun family bring and braai on Friday 1 March at the new BMX track that is still currently under construction. Approximately 100 m of the 300 m track have been completed behind the AstroTurf and the new sports club. The BMX Club was founded by Rickus Müller with help from Gys Malan and Paul Gibbings. Once the track has been completed, the club will be able to host competitions, including SAs. The bring and braai was the first in a series of events to create awareness. The next social will be held on Friday 8 March from 16:30 - 18:30. For more information on how you can support the club or become involved, contact Rickus on 064 785 9417 or visit their Facebook page ‘Overberg BMX Club’.

PHOTOS: Taylum Meyer LEFT: Rickus ran behind his son, Andreas, on the track a few times to make sure that he didn’t fall off his bike.

BELOW: Friends Liam Swanepoel and Waldo Uys attended the Overberg BMX Club’s bring and braai on Friday to try out the new track.

Jolandré Spandiel, Carlton van Wyk and Chadlin Spandiel thoroughly enjoyed their time at the Hermanus Primary School Carnival.

Lean-Té Barnard, a Grade 4 learner at Hermanus Primary, showed her skill on the surfing simulator.

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Club Championships a roaring success

Putting Pirate By Julian Shaw

G

reetings to all once more. This past weekend was one of the most important in the Hermanus Golf Club’s calendar – our twoday 36-hole Club Championships combines all divisions of golfers and both men’s and ladies’ components of the club.

We started off the day early on Saturday with the men’s A and C divisions and the ladies’ silver, bronze and copper divisions leading the way. Then the single biggest division, the men’s B, followed in the afternoon. The course was in exceptional condition thanks to the extra efforts and work of Golf Data and course superintendent Malcom Bromley and his team.

We also tried to keep the set-up of the course friendly and let the field flow as best we could.

Early expectations on Saturday were mixed as men’s favourite Liam Cloete roared into a 2-shot lead after shooting an excellent 2 under par 70,

the senior participant, Dirk van der Merwe was just 2 behind and cricket legend, Adrian Kuiper, proving that he is no slouch when wielding a club instead of a bat, was just another 3 behind.

Sunday (Day 2) started off nice and early with the B division in the morning and then the big guns in the afternoon. The weather also played its part to a tee! Absolutely perfect, with very little wind and the course playing immaculately. With the leaders showing little signs of tension, the stage was set.

Liam Cloete looked fresh when he teed off, fresh when he turned after 9, and after quite a few years of trying to control the nerves, he took his first Club title with a great score of 4 under par. He truly deserved it – many congratulations on great golf indeed!

Second place, just three behind, went to experienced senior player Dirk van der Merwe, also brilliantly played.

In the ladies’ division our ladies’ Captain Lynne Behagg was the firm favourite after winning the title a staggering 9 times, but one of our youngsters, 17-year-old Nicola

Streicher, a high school matriculant and daughter of current Club Captain Albert Streicher, took the lead with an excellent 74 gross. Lynne struggled a little to a disappointing 77 but vowed to come back strongly the next 18.

True to form, she did just that with a solid level par 72 to take her 10th title. Congratulations to Lynne and well done indeed to Nicola Streicher for a terrific second place overall.

The B division was decided early with Andre Gouws keeping a cool head in the morning and adding an 81 to a very good 79 of the previous day, for a total 160. He was the winner by four strokes – well played, Andre!

The best nett for B division belonged to an ecstatic John Clifford on an excellent 137. The afternoon play in the C division was dominated on Day 1 by Niels Verburg but in the end Nobby Clark took that division. Well done to all!

Special thanks go to the team at the club headed up by General Manager Sharon Sleigh for all the work leading up to and indeed running the tournament. It’s always a huge amount of work that goes into the preparation and meticulous organis-

What’s on at

ABOVE: From left at the back are Nobby Clark, Andrew Philip, Dirk van der Merwe, André Gouws, Niamh Casey and Wina Loubser.

In front are the champs, Lynne Behagg and Liam Cloete.

ing of a well-run tournament wel. As the saying goes, “There is no ‘I’ in the word team”!

In the speeches at the prizegiving, special mention went to one of our continuing and most supportive sponsors, Hermanus Nissan and Ford, and the men behind these two excellent brands, Tank Coetzee and Wikus Niemand. Many thanks, gents. As we all well know, in the world of sport we wouldn’t get very far without sponsors.

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Lynne Behagg, the ladies' winner of the Club Championships for the 10th time and Liam Cloete, the men's winner.

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MY SCHOOL

Hermanus High School walks for fun

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Hermanus High hosted their annual Pretloop on Friday 1 March. The 5km walk starts and ends at the school’s back gate with the route taking the students through Fernkloof and along the coastal path. Students were allowed to wear casual clothes and many dressed up for the walk in bright outfits such as tutus and T-shirts with their names painted on them.

The learners were welcomed back at the school with a cool drink and given a chance to relax before the rest of the day’s activities commenced. These included inter-class tug-of-war and short soccer games. The school’s Interact Club also had the opportunity to spend some time and play games with learners from Camphill School's foundation phase classes.

LEFT: Friends Ahlume Moss and Spesihle Xalabile fight for the ball in a friendly soccer match at the high school’s Pretloop on Friday.

PHOTO: Taylum Meyer RIGHT: Many of the learners dressed up for the walk. Here are matrics Marché Isaacs, Marissa Page, Fiona Phillips, Lee-Ann Prins and Geneve Goedeman.

PHOTO: Taylum Meyer

LEFT: Rico Roos, Grace Williams and Leandri Bezuidenhout enjoyed the walk along the coastal path.

PHOTO: Mitch Scholtz RIGHT: Emma Kahts from the Hermanus High School Interact Club with Camphill School student Thimna Arosi.

PHOTO: Carmen Kruger

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