NEWS
Hermanus
The
READ ME, I’M A LOCAL
News You Can Use
Issue 9
22 DECEMBER 2015
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Dismay over bypass proposal Residents of Hermanus have uttered their dismay and concern at the final scoping report of the environmental consultants of the Western Cape Government on the proposed bypass road in Hermanus. “Although several residents and we, as the Hermanus Ratepayers’ Association (HRA), made suggestions as to alternative routes, none of these were included into the final scoping report. The report, as it stands now proposes two alternative routes that have an immense impact on property and business owners, the Fernkloof Nature Reserve and schools in the area,” says Bob Stanway, chair of the HRA. According to the report the Department of Transport and Public Works (DTPW) proposes to construct a bypass road approximately 3 km long, to the north of the Hermanus Central Business District (CBD), abutting Mountain Drive, past the Hermanus Sports Complex and along Fairways Avenue.
“The bypass starts in the vicinity of the intersection of Main Road, Mountain Drive and Mimosa Street in the west, runs in a northeasterly direction along and to the north of Mountain Drive and the existing edge of the built environment and passes either to the north of the cemetery and the proposed new Hermanus Sports Complex before turning southwards along the eastern edge of the sports fields (northern alternative); or to the south of the cemetery and intersects with Lord Roberts Drive before continuing in a northeasterly direction along Jose Burman Drive between the Hermanus High School and the proposed new Hermanus Sport Complex (southern alternative),” states the report done by SRK Consulting on behalf of the government. “From there it continues southwards across the eastern portion of the Hermanus High School sports fields and along a section of Fairways Avenue between the residential suburb of Eastcliff and Hermanus Golf Course and joins Main Road at a new traffic circle approximately
110m to the north-east of the existing intersection of Fairways Avenue with Main Road,” according to the report, “There are several issues that we as Hermanus residents have to take into account,” says Bob. “The first is that all the studies that were done do not show a real need for a bypass. Only about 7% of traffic coming into Hermanus leaves again towards Stanford. The traffic congestion that we have is because of the volume of traffic coming into the CBD rather than throughtraffic. The second concern is that the bypass is not included in the Overstrand Municipality’s Integrated Development Plan (IDP), nor in those of the Overberg District Municipality, the Western Cape Spatial Development Framework or Provincial Land Transport Framework. We can therefore not ascertain where the need or the reason for building a bypass comes from,” says Bob. Anina Lee, Communications Manager of
Whale Coast Conservation, also expressed her concern about the proposed bypass. “As the report stands now, the bypass will encroach on land of the Fernkloof Nature Reserve. It is a matter of principal that we cannot allow land that is part of a nature reserve to be used as a public space to build infrastructure. There is no justification for that and will set a dangerous precedent,” she says. Mayor Nicolette Botha-Guthrie says the bypass is not included in the IDP and no documents have served before council with regard to it. “I can therefore not comment either for or against it.” “The HRA is aware that within Hermanus there is both opposition to and support for the bypass and interested and affected parties are urged to familiarize themselves with the issues. Everyone has until 5 February 2016 to submit comments on the final scoping report,” says Bob. Read more on p6
Dave Smith
Amongst many other things, we Poms are famous the world over for our expertise in talking about the weather. The main reason we do this is that many years ago we invented queuing and, having introduced it to the rest of the world, needed to find something else to do while we waited politely in line watching the French and Italians push in front of us and the Germans form their own queue entirely. However, I maintain that we are not the only culprits. Ever since Noah said to his Missus “Looks like we’re in for a spot of rain” the weather has been a fall-back topic of conversation whenever other sources dry up. It’s said that the Eskimos have over 200 different words for “snow” and it’s very similar with the Scots who have 100 alternative ways of saying
We salute you The Hermanus community once again showed its mettle when loads of food and drink were delivered to the weary firefighters battling the devastating blaze in the Fernkloof Nature Reserve. A high-five for all those who pulled together to help those who were helping us. Of course also a word of deep gratitude for the men and women who risked their lives fighting the flames. They came to Hermanus from all over the area, as far as Stellenbosch, Somerset West and Bredasdorp. These people, of who some give their time voluntarily, are true heroes. We salute you. The blaze once again highlighted how closely intertwined we are with nature. Not only are we world-renowned for our marine live but we also have some of the most unique floral habitats in the world. We are fortunate to be able to live and work in this environment and as a community we have to work together to ensure the continued preservation of this precious gift.
“cold, wet and miserable”. They also have seven ways of saying “Summer”: “Monday, Tuesday, Wednesday etc…”. We Poms have the same but it’s a day later. Similarly, here in the Cape it’s not easy finding new expressions for “warm again eh?” or “windy again eh?” or an alternative second word in the phrase “another ??? day in Africa”. In Australia, Crowded House suggested taking the weather with you but that’s really not necessary unless you really can’t think of anything else to talk about. Sometimes though, we are able to broaden our outlook beyond the weather itself and actually discuss weather forecasts and, in particular, the merits of one forecast against another. People these days, especially those with a sporting
interest in what the weather is going to be like, have chosen their own favourite site by which they swear (websites are the way to go as forecasts in newspapers, like sports pages in some of our Sunday press, seem to be printed about two weeks in advance). So is it Golfweather or Windfinder or Windguru or that strange Norwegian one prepared by a guy named Bjerk fishing next to a fjord near Stavanger? How on earth does he know what the weather’s going to be like in Onrus? Or perhaps you prefer one of the more mainstream sources. The one that comes with my cell phone (no names no pack drill) is consistently inaccurate even in real time let alone in advance. I can look outside as I write this and see the blue sky and sunshine but my phone tells me that it’s raining. Which is correct? Do my eyes deceive me or am I forced to ignore
Betty Blue Bistro 126 Main Road Hermanus Tel: 028 125 0037 Fax: 086 461 7400 info@bettyblue.co.za
OPEN DAILY 08:00 - 17:00 7 DAYS A WEEK
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The
the mighty Microsoft (oops!). In fact, I have a friend who regularly makes allowances for this sort of thing. He has a theory that if the forecast is for a 60% chance of rain we will not get it as the front (yes he’s very technical) will go south. However, if the forecast is for a 10% chance then it will rain. His theory has been proven correct once in the last 10 years and so he is sticking to it. But let’s be honest, in this part of the world you can drive from Fisherhaven to Voëlklip and experience 3 or 4 different types of weather and so what chance have the experts got of predicting that? For goodness’ sake I’ve seen it raining on one side of my house and sunny on the other – now there was a great story to talk about!
Did you know ... There are three dams in the Fernkloof Nature Reserve. The annual rainfall in Hermanus is half the world average. And the greatest demand is experienced during the driest months, namely December and January, making storage essential. The three dams were built on the Mossel River in the 1920s. They supplied ‘brown’ water to the villages of Poole’s Bay and Mossel River until incorporated into Hermanus’ general supply in the 1940s. Water from this source is still used, but only for horticultural purposes. A hike to the dams is a delight.
This is the last edition of 2015 for The Hermanus News. We would like to thank all of you who have helped to make this newspaper the huge success that it is in only four months of existence. To each and every one of our valued readers and advertisers we would like to extend our best wishes for 2016. We are looking forward to an amazing year working with you to bring you all the News You Can Use. ED
Reader John Ferreira sent in these pictures of a pair of Plovers who decided to nest in his front garden in Cross Street, Onrus. “The egg was laid last Sunday morning and we will give them their space to hatch the chick,” says John.
Publisher De Waal Steyn 083 700 3319 dewaal@thehermanusnews.co.za
Ombudsman
Content Manager Megan Smith 082 411 1343 smalltowntiger@gmail.com Marketing Kathy Mulock-Bentley 083 581 7219 kathy@chartwellsupport.co.za Graphic Designer & Layout Artist Nickey Jackson 079 408 7722 nickey1094@gmail.com
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DEVASTATING HERMANUS FIRE: The fire that broke out on Sunday 20 December in the Fernkloof Nature Reserve and Hemel-en-Aarde Valley was by Monday morning still burning out of control. According to Lester Smith, Head of the Fire Department and Disaster Management, the fire was still burning high in the mountains above Hermanus. “The fire is very high up in the mountain and we cannot deploy firefighters to the area. In the Hemel-en-Aarde Valley there are several teams fighting the blaze with the help of local farmers. Because of the low cloud cover in the morning we could not send out the helicopter to help douse the flames,” he says. Scores of Hermanus residents brought food and water for the weary firefighters, with Mayor Nicolette Botha-Guthrie and several other volunteers jumping in to help make food parcels for them. Pictures: Facebook
The press exists to serve society. Its freedom provides for independent scrutiny of the forces that shape society, and is essential to realising the promise of democracy. It enables citizens to make informed judgments on the issues of the day, a role whose centrality is recognised in the South African Constitution. The News of Hermanus subscribes to the South African Press Code and subsequently to the South African Press Council and the South African Press Ombudsman. Should you feel that our reporting was not free, fair or unbiased or that serious errors were made, you are welcome to lay a complaint with the Ombudsman, Joe Thloloe. He can be reached on 011 484 3612/8, or via email at pressombudsman@ombudsman.org.za or visit www.presscouncil.org.za
NEWS The
GOOD
That is the good news.
ASK ME campaign hits the spot with tourists The Ask Me I’m a Local campaign, aimed at creating a warm and friendly environment for visitors to town, is a huge success, says Hermanus Tourism manager, Frieda Lloyd. “We have been inundated with local volunteers asking to be part of the campaign. The idea behind it is that visitors can walk up to any of the people wearing the distinctive yellow badge or cap and ask them about town. This will give visitors insight into our
experience as locals and help them experience Hermanus as locals do,” says Frieda. According to her, many of the volunteers have come from our ‘swallows’ community. “These people who mainly spend the summer months in Hermanus are as passionate as all the other residents and are true ambassadors for Hermanus, not only while they are here, but also when they back home.” The Ask Me I’m a Local campaign is also underscored by the #myhermanus social media campaign. “This campaign was launched to harness the immense power of social media and aims to create awareness of all the happenings in and around Hermanus. Local publishers Village Explorer, Splash Magazine, The Hermanus News, I Love Hermanus and Small Town Tiger together with Whale Coast FM have undertaken to continuously post photographs and event updates on social media to inform the visiting public of what is happening in town. “The #myhermanus hashtag has been trending on Facebook, Twitter and Instagram for the past week and we have seen post reach increasing in some instances by up to 600%. This shows that visitors are seeing our posts and that they are informed about where to go and what to do,” says Frieda.
Zanele Bantwini
Aluminium Security & Timber Shutters
The Hermanus News spoke to Ask Me I’m a Local volunteer, Zanele Bantwini who hails from
21A Mimosa Street, Hermanus Industria
Tel: (028) 312-3767 Email: sales@premiershutters.co.za Website: www.premiershuttersandfires.co.za
accommodation establishments to adventure activities.
Gardean Lucas from Hermanus Tourism and Kari Brice, Ward 3 Councillor, welcoming visitors to Hermanus. Willowvale in the Eastern Cape and has been calling Hermanus her home since 2006. She started working as a car guard in 2008 and has received training from both Hermanus Tourism and the Overstrand Municipality. Zanele is very excited about the Ask Me I’m a local campaign and wears her badge and cap with pride. Working at the busy parking area on the waterfront above Bientang’s Cave, Zanele says she is regularly approached by visitors and tourists, who ask her advice on everything from
“I am often asked where they can find a nice restaurant or where they can get a boat to see the whales,” she says. Zanele’s friendly smile, her local knowledge and training are clearly working wonders. “Tourists often tell me that I have made their day,” she says. “They say they will definitely come back because of the warm welcome they received in Hermanus.” Any local resident who would like to be an ambassador for Hermanus can purchase their yellow badge with the words Ask Me I’m a Local at Hermanus Tourism for only R10. The caps worn by the car guards were sponsored by Ford Hermanus in collaboration with The Hermanus News.
ONCE UPON A TIME - The Stanford Players, under the guiding hand of Rina de Wet, once again put on a bumper concert at the Dutch Reformed Church hall in Stanford on 16, 17 and 18 December. With a fairy tale theme, the musical ‘Once Upon a Time’, featured numbers such as The Wizard of Oz, The Little Mermaid, Peter Pan, Little Red Riding Hood, Alice in Wonderland, Cinderella, Snow White and Jack & the Beanstalk. To the great amusement of the audience, many locals could be spotted strutting their stuff on stage as they danced and sang in the various numbers. Refreshments were provided before and after the show, and during interval by Don Gelato and Raka Wines.
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Hermanus Pharmacies/Clinics Emergency after hours tel: 028 312 4039
Hermanus Pharmacy/Clinic 145 Main Road, Hermanus
Tel: 028 312 4039
brenda@hermanuspharmacy.co.za Hours: Mondays-Fridays 08:00 - 18:30 Saturdays: 08:00 - 13:00 & 18:30 - 19:30 Sundays & Public Holidays 10:00 - 12:00 & 18:30 - 19:30
A. Stewart Pharmacy
Alex Grant Pharmacy/Clinic
Pick n Pay Centre, Hermanus
Gateway Centre, Hermanus
Tel: 028 312 1410
Tel: 028 312 4847
arnold@aspharmacy.co.za Hours: Mondays-Fridays 08:30 - 18:00 Saturdays: 08:30 - 14:00 Sundays & Public Holidays 10:00 - 12:00
ingrid@alexgrantpharmacy.co.za Hours: Mondays-Fridays 08:00 - 17:30 Saturdays: 08:00 - 13:00
#hermanuspharmacieswishyouwell Our best wishes for the festive season and a rewarding 2016 to all our customers. We also welcome the holiday makers to Hermanus. Many of you have become regular seasonal customers and friends over the 28 years that we are in business and we look forward to seeing you again.
Zigi, Adri, Suzaan, Brenda and Philip-Ben at the Hermanus Pharmacy
Ingrid, Marianne and Annebé at Alex Grant Pharmacy
Arnold and Petro at A. Stewart Pharmacy
The young man and the sea With brand names like Neptune Divers and Ocean Quest, Marx has managed to develop a business in just over four years that explores many facets of Walker Bay through diving courses and excursions, and ecological and pleasure trips on his yacht, Ocean Quest. Marx matriculated from Hermanus High School in 2010 and worked as a qualified dive instructor in Bermuda, Portugal and France before establishing his own diving school in Hermanus. In 2014 he acquired the 11 meter yacht, moored at the New Harbour, to supplement his diving courses with diving excursions, ecological trips and sunset cruises. Marx further offers three annual internships to post matriculates from Hermanus during which they are trained as dive masters. The business has also recently opened a kiosk at Market Square. Marx is shy to talk about his achievements. “The sea is my life and developing a business like this is really just working towards what I love – of course with plenty support from my parents and others. There are a few frustrations, mostly bureaucratic, in becoming an entrepreneur and doing you own thing but the pleasure of every achievement far outweighs these small hurdles, especially if you believe in what you are doing,” says Marx. He considers Walker Bay as ideal for his venture, albeit not without
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concern for the apparent ecological underwater changes he has noted from his diving classes and excursions. Marx says that while the crayfish seem to be more plentiful and larger this season, perlemoen and former popular angling species like Red Roman, Red Steenbras, Galjoen and even Hottentots have become rare sights. Likewise, diving at Rietfontein was always a treat for the many sharks in that area but there are just a few around when they dive there now. “What is really worrying is the famous colourful reef in the Old Harbour area which has been a major attraction for divers over the years. The reef is now black, covered with mussels with virtually no other visible sea life,” Marx commented. He has no explanation for this except mentioning a rumour that it may be the result of unfortunate sewage spills into the sea close to the Old Harbour during unexpected load shedding periods. Other reefs, like at Boiling Pot, are unaffected. He continues to monitor the situation and will also provide photo material to marine ecologist for possible answers and solutions. Doing what he loves and believing in it has been an effective entrepreneurial incentive for Marx and fine economic and ecological assets for Hermanus. Others, while considering what to do with their futures, may just take note next time they see the Ocean Quest in Walker Bay.
NEWS
GOOD
With the matrics waiting for their results and many still wondering what to do for a career, it may be worthwhile to take a leaf out of the entrepreneurial book of young local entrepreneur, Marx Möhr (23).
Wild horses should remain free By Alta Pretorius The moves afoot to shift the famous last wild horses of the Western Cape forcibly to another habitat, has been met with outrage by many of the residents in the Fisherhaven and Meerensee area close to Hermanus where they have been roaming around freely for almost a century. It is rumoured that they are descendants from the Anglo-Boer war, and some even believe their predecessors have escaped from the Birkenhead ship wreck and swam ashore. Whatever the case may be, they are part of the heritage of the area, and their hooves have even adapted to accommodate the vlei conditions. These beautiful wild horses, most of them with a genetic white star on their foreheads, roam around freely between Kleinmond, Rooisand, Middelvlei Nature Reserve and Fisherhaven. They have even been seen crossing the wooden bridge at Meerensee from Rooisand via the beach. There are no boundaries to keep them in one area when the lagoon is low after breaching. The consideration by authorities to move them to one area at Rooisand by either herding them there, or drugging them and moving them in a truck, seems as if it might be a futile and expensive exercise. There has recently been a huge veld fire at Rooisand, so the horses will simply move back to greener pastures as they have been doing for decades. The authorities are concerned about liability issues in case of an accident on the R43. There are currently close to 30 wild horses left, according to Bruce Boyd, a photographer who follows them around. Boyd is locally known as The Wild Horse Whisperer. The wild horses are moving around in separate groups at Fisherhaven, Rooisand, Middelvlei and Lamloch. Amongst them are two young foals and a pregnant mare. People are requested not to bother, touch or feed the horses - they know how to care for themselves and flourish on the local vlei vegetation. The horses play an important ecological role in the Botrivier wetlands. Their footpaths through the reeds allow drainage of the swamp area. They constantly feed on the grasses underneath the surface and keep the reeds from taking over by feeding on the green leafy shoots from the young plants. Their hooves have adapted over the decades by becoming larger and more saucer-shaped enabling them to move freely in the wet vlei. A 2016 calendar of these wild horses, photographed by Bruce is currently available. "I am trying to create awareness by using the only tool I have - a camera," says Bruce. "These horses are migratory by nature and it is senseless to try and restrict them or move them around. They are wild in essence." The calendar is available from bruce@thewildones.co.za or altacapetown@gmail.com. People who are interested in following the plight of the wild horses are encouraged to like the Facebook pages of The Wild Ones.
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The nitty-gritty of the bypass The road:
The road will function as a regional route and consist of a single carriageway with one 3.7m wide vehicle lane in each direction and a 1.8m wide shoulder in each direction within a road reserve of approximately 25m, with two-way traffic. The proposed speed limit is 80 km/h, although this may be reduced to 60 km/h in the proximity of intersections. A combined 3m wide pedestrian walkway and cycle path is proposed on the southern side of the road. It is proposed that all retaining structures are constructed with natural sandstone rock. s abut route d n s a s a s yp rea The roposed b natural a p nd The as a ; n are serve urba re Re n c l u d i n g u t a : e i fN d k inclu Fernkloo a r e a s , broo e l Innes • Th s i d e n t i a cliff and t as, • R e hcliff, Eas al are Nort ation chool, e r ; c e re hS Villag ions and us Hig orts rman hool, Sp e stitut e H In e c h • S t urs s o a rivate s Golf C such us P u ntry n n u a a o Herm Herm a n u s C , x le p Com h e H e r m he t as t s ch and d u y’ n s o a ; H et as nd Mark g e a r e ry a e t a e it er cem • H anus Herm . ie Kopp
: route
Nature:
Where the Hermanus CBD Bypass impacts on areas within the Fernkloof Nature Reserve (FNR), an application to exclude affected areas will be submitted to the Minister for Environmental Affairs of the Western Cape Province. Both a pedestrian and vehicular underpass under the bypass is proposed near the schools. The mountainous areas, sandstone cliffs and stony scree slopes of the Overstrand municipal area provide habitat for nearpristine remnants of critically endangered mountain fynbos vegetation and are considered of high importance for biodiversity conservation. The proposed bypass is located in Overberg sandstone fynbos, at the ecotone with Hangklip Sand Fynbos and Agulhas Limestone Fynbos. The FNR also provides pristine and varied habitat for many animal species. According to the South African National Biodiversity Institute, the area north of Mountain Drive is deemed a Critical Biodiversity Area (CBA), while a wetland adjacent to the Hermanus Golf Course is designated an Ecological Support Area (ESA).
Motivation:
The implementation of the Hermanus CBD Bypass aims to: • Provide a mobility route for through traffic between the eastern and western parts of Hermanus that complies with the necessary standards, • Improve accessibility, traffic flow and safety in the CBD area, • Enable business development within the Hermanus CBD by optimising accessibility, parking and nonmotorised access, and • Create a more liveable and economically viable CBD environment.
Alternatives:
Full bypass: Traffic modelling predicts that traffic volumes, particularly on the eastern section of a ‘full’ bypass to the north of Hermanus and extending along the entire length of town, are too low to justify the construction of a full bypass. Upgrade CBD Relief Road: Upgrading the CBD Relief Road to a mobility route would result in ongoing conflict between the needs of providing for mobility, direct access, pedestrian and cyclist movement and safety and parking, and require extensive and costly expropriation to achieve the necessary width, which would significantly affect land uses adjacent to the CBD Relief Road. Upgrade R43 through CBD: Upgrading the R43 through the CBD to a mobility route would result in ongoing conflict between the needs of providing for mobility, direct access, pedestrian and cyclist movement and safety and parking, and require extensive and costly expropriation to achieve the necessary width, with effects on the CBD. Upgrade Mountain Drive to function as bypass: Mountain Drive has a large number of direct accesses and intersection spacing is too close to meet the functional requirements of the proposed bypass. Traffic calming measures (speed bumps) implemented on Mountain Drive are not compatible with mobility requirements. The No Go alternative: This entails no change to the status quo, in other words the bypass will not be constructed and traffic between the eastern and western portions of Hermanus will continue to use the R43 through the CBD, the CBD Relief Road or roads in residential areas north of the CBD. The No Go alternative may have a constraining effect on land use and improvements to accessibility and nonmotorised transport in the CBD in the region to protect the mobility the existing route.
ed by ns rais r e c n d co s nts an Bypas e m m s CBD : u e n ly r Co t a s a o olders n for the Hermermanus is m H stakeh atio
How you can you participate?
ffic in motiv ise e; tra • The se no equat d a increa in nt y e is a c ; m ja d ass ctory ect a f d f n satisfa n the byp a a ool and ffic o e h Sch s llution n ig o e H • Tra s p air , the nd the ture and areas ool, a a h l N c f ia S t n te kloo reside s Priva e Fern rmanu and th he the He in the area rce t ce uld fo arket, o of pla w t M e; nmen ountry es Reserv rthern alig nus C provid a o d n rm n e a H n e io h t t • The c of attra e closure a regional for th is h cess ; ic y ro rs a p e wh d m nning and e to tra incom tended pla ncertainty ex s u g of rease • The alues; the clearin ss inc v a y p rt y ee b p e the d requir t on pro and ld , u impac pass may s o ie spec FNR w by f the nbos o fy • The s t n an ortio nd import n of p all reserve; wetla matio la sm c y d ro e the rse that a p g e a lr a m da e an Cou t reduc pass may s Golf pmen y rmanu b e evelo H d e h r e h t fo • T o t le ent uitab D adjac d uns ns; he CB eeme d tigatio ffic from t s s e in a v , w y in it r ra t iv ie t ove earl il ac w e during ass will rem in CBD reta n t of a byp line pmen lo • The ause a dec e v e de and c with th nction ju n o c ll. al ma region
Register or send written comment to: Jessica du Toit SRK Consulting Postnet Suite #206, Private Bag X18, Rondebosch, 7701 Tel: + 27 21 659 3060 Fax: +27 21 685 7105 Email: jedutoit@srk.co.za Stakeholders not previously registered should provide their name, contact details (preferred method of notification, e.g. email), and an indication of any direct business, financial, personal or other interest which they have in the application. Any additional comments must reach SRK no later than 5 February 2016 to be also included in the submission to DEA&DP.
Copies of the complete report are available at:
• Hermanus Library; • Zwelihle Library; • SRK’s Cape Town office; and
• • •
Source: Executive Summary: Final Scoping Report
Mount Pleasant Library; Hawston Library; SRK’s website: www.srk.co.za – via the ‘Library’ and ‘Public Documents’ link.
028 312 2226
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Cameras to assist in curbing crime The days are numbered for robbers targeting residents and visitors in town with 14 CCTV cameras that will soon become operational. According to Hennie Niemand, General Manager of Hermanus Public Protection (HPP), cameras will be installed in the CBD, in Fernkloof, on the Kleinrivier Mountain, at Swallow Park, at Sandbaai, near De Mond and at the New Harbour. “The poles for the cameras were put in place this week and the installation of the cameras will start on 4 January 2016. The plan is to place the cameras in strategic positions to help eradicate crime in town. The cameras are linked to a joint operations centre at the Fire Station and will operate 24 hours a day,” says Hennie. The CCTV cameras will provide more eyes and pick up on things than cannot be seen by the HPP guards in town. HPP presently has guards on duty from Westcliff to the CBD and on to Grotto Beach. HPP also does some bush clearing and general cleaning to assist in curbing crime. According to Hermanus Tourism PR Manager, Frieda Lloyd, Hermanus has not been without incidents this Festive Season. “We encourage everyone to be vigilant and keep the following tips in mind.”
• Always be alert of surroundings. • It is always better to explore in groups. • Don’t allow any person to assist with the withdrawal of money at an ATM. Cancel the transaction immediately if someone interferes with your ATM transaction. • If you notice a suspicious person alert the Hermanus Public Protection (HPP) guards. • Do not walk with large amount of cash. • HPP guards will accompany guests at a distance to ensure a safe walk. Phone HPP for a guided walk. • Walk with an air horn and raise alarm if necessary.
Here for the past 11 years Tel: (028) 313 2976 Pick 'n Pay Centre Hermanus
Goodiez brightens up Village Square
• Take a walking stick when you go on a walk. This is a practical walking aid and can help to fend off attackers. Members can purchase a beautiful, decorated walking stick at the Art Galleries and give to guests to use as a way to protect themselves. • Take note of the suspects’ shoes. Criminals often wear layers of clothing and change their tops but seldom their shoes and hats. • Report all incidents to the South African Police Service and make sure you are given a case number.
New Flavourz in town The latest addition to the culinary scene in the CBD of Hermanus is Flavourz Food & Wine Bistro at Walker Bay Art Gallery in Main Road. Owner Francois Grobbelaar recently took over the adjacent premises to enlarge the gallery and the new section was extensively renovated to create a light and airy space for the exhibition of modern artworks.
Hilary and Colleen from Goodiez
“We also wanted to utilise the lovely courtyard, which now forms part of Flavourz,” says Francois’ wife, Christine. As a food lover who enjoys cooking and entertaining, Christine decided that a bistro would be a natural extension of their gallery and framing workshop. “The bistro offers visitors the opportunity to linger and browse the gallery while also enjoying a coffee break or a light lunch. We feel the two businesses complement each other – food is after all also a form of art,” says Christine. Together with partner Yolanda Alazraku, previously from Daily Bread in Voëlklip, Christine has created a welcoming space in the courtyard using the grey and red colour scheme of Walker Bay Art Gallery. There is also an indoor dining area and outdoor counter space where visitors can enjoy anything from
coffee and cake to breakfast or lunch. The menu is small and changes every few days depending on the availability of fresh seasonal produce. The bistro is also fully licensed with the focus on locally produced beers and wines. They are open daily from 09:00 to 17:00.
Hilary Caro, the owner of Goodiez in Old Harbour Lane, recently opened a second shop in the Village Square on the premises where the late Jeff Tanner had his shop, African Kingdom. With its dazzling array of colourful arts and crafts, it’s impossible to pass by without being drawn into this little shop which is as bright and colourful as its owner.
so much more than just opening and closing your doors and sitting behind the counter. Colour draws people and displays are very important because they must tell a story. Every product in my shop is made by passionate crafters who love what they do, and as a retailer I must sell their products with the same passion.”
“It’s been a bit exhausting,” laughs Hilary, “as I’m running to and fro between the two shops. But it was a great opportunity to be in this prime position and I’m loving it.”
The merchandise of Goodiez is sourced from every corner of southern Africa, from Mauritius, Madagascar and Swaziland to Franschhoek, Bredasdorp, Knysna and Hermanus.
From the moment a customer walks through the door, Hilary is on hand to help, inform and tell the wonderful stories behind her merchandise. “We take great pride in supporting quality artists and crafters, and the majority of our products are unique to Hermanus,” says Hilary, who has a long history in the retail trade.
If you are looking for that special Christmas gift that is quirky and different, there is plenty to choose from at Goodiez. The unique items in the two Goodiez shops are guaranteed to bring a smile to your face – be it an original miniature painting, hand-painted bowl or mug, coaster, apron, place mat, basket, bag, photo frame, candle, key ring, fridge magnet or hand-made decoration for the Christmas tree.
“I’m very hands-on because this business entails
We service ANY make or model vehicle OLDER THAN 5 YEARS Phone to make an appointment to have your ly vehicle serviced at the on unbelievable price of
R990.00
028 312 3704 18 Arum Street, Hermanus
+(27) 028 341 0209 info@kiwinet.co.za • www.kiwinet.co.za 34 Daneel Street STANFORD 7210 GOOD
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We do a 20 check point service and safety inspection as part of a complete service.
EASTCLIFF AUTO CC 7
An excellent place to live and work As the year draws to a close and we reflect on what has gone before, let it also be a time to recharge our batteries and to enter 2016 with renewed energy and fervour.
Birkenhead Galley Stanford 028 341 0113 Oskars Village Square Market Street 028 312 3873 Paradiso Village Square Piazza 028 313 1153
In the course of my work, I’ve had the distinct pleasure in this past year of engaging with a significant number of public members. Along the way, a vast array of interesting people from all walks of life and across a broad spectrum, have crossed my path. Of these, there have been those who have inspired and filled me with hope and optimism. There have also been a lot who have expressed appreciation for the efforts and services the municipality has extended to them and their communities. Where matters of concern or enquiry have arisen, the issues at hand were addressed and resolved to the best of our ability and satisfaction of those concerned. In that time, I’ve been encouraged by the good relations that have been fostered and the common understanding reached with many. It is on the back of that very momentum that my fellow councillors and the administrative teams will continue on the mission to further improve the lives and environments of our people. The Overstrand is a wonderful region rich in heritage, nature and beauty that is home to its more than 93 000 residents. The area is fast becoming known as a choice holiday destination for the ever-increasing number of visitors and tourists seeking an idyllic breakaway from their busy lives. With that in mind, employment opportunities have abounded and been presented to a larger local base, whilst at the same time allowing businesses in the zone to thrive. To that end, recognition of these efforts has been rewarded and bestowed upon by recognised, certified and renowned local and international bodies of authorisation. Let us take the time to celebrate these acknowledgments, but to also understand that it provides the platform from which even greater future prosperity can be leveraged.
C00-EEE Café @ Pennypinchers Gateway Centre 028 32 1131
Rossi’s Italian Restaurant
The Overstrand Municipality pledges to continue in its quest to be a centre of excellence through the creation of sustainable communities and the delivery of optimal services that support the economic, social and environmental goals of our people, in a climate of political stability. I urge you to work with us to ensure it is not just a good place to live and work in, but an excellent one – and, more importantly, as we herald in 2016 let us live up to our fast-gaining reputation as being the place that is a model of social cohesion and harmony. Even with the economic slump and the challenges faced in 2015, let us look toward the New Year with commitments anew; to each other, family, communities, neighbouring cities and fellow South Africans. May 2016 be a prosperous and purpose-filled year for all, where accomplishments are many and trials are few. Nicolette Botha-Guthrie Executive Mayor
Europa Village Square Waterfront Piazza 028 312 4377
24 HOUR 082 856 0208 125 Main Road morne@hermanuslock.co.za We Specialise in Domestic, Industrial & Commercial: • Cutting of Key’s & Transponder Keys • Locks • Safes & Keys • Vehicle Key’s • High Sec Locks 9 High Sec Keys • Scissors/Blade Sharpening • Remotes / Receivers • Electric Fence Accessories
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Cubbyhole News
Your checklist for tyres Tyres should be inspected often, and the following list highlights some of the faults to focus on: • Check tyres regularly for punctures, penetrations, cuts and bulges. • Cuts in the tyre could permit damp to reach the casing plies. This is harmful for both textile and steel casings and will affect safety and tyre life. • Wheel alignment - misaligned wheels will lead to excessive tyre wear. • A worn steering mechanism, ball joints and wheel bearings will also reduce tyre life. • Consult your vehicle manual for the proper size and speed rating. Some tyres are now marked with letters to indicate their speed ratings. Tyre speed ratings do not imply that vehicles can be driven safely at the maximum speed for which the tyre is rated, particularly under adverse road and weather conditions, or if the vehicle has unusual characteristics. • One-sided wear. This takes various forms. A regular smooth band of wear all around the tyre on the inside or
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the outside of the tread is a sign of incorrect camber. Too much toe-in causes irregular one-sided wear. Tread-centre wear. Regular wear of this kind is normally a sign of high tyre pressure. Driving fast for long distances may cause this on low-profile tyres, because traveling at 120 km/h wears a tyre out twice as fast as travelling at 70 km/h. Inner- and outer-edge wear. If both inner and outer edges are worn, it usually implies that the tyres have been run at too low a pressure at normal speeds. Irregular bald spotting. Known as cupping, this is usually caused by worn shock absorbers, worn suspension bushes, or even loose wheel bearings. Missing valve caps should be replaced, since they are there to prevent dirt from clogging the valves, which could cause a loss of air pressure. Torque wheel studs /nuts to correct setting when mounting new tyres - check for loose or missing wheel nuts. Check tread depth on all tyres and replace well before they reach regulatory minimum depth of 1.00 mm to reduce the risk of aquaplaning on wet roads.
The Photo Shed Leanne Dryburgh of thephotowalkers.com is one of the new tenants at Market Square who recently opened The Photo Shed, where passionate photographers will find everything from quality fine art photography prints, camera bags and straps to professionally framed photographs, cards, calendars and the latest range of Polaroid instant cameras. They also have quirky camera fridge magnets and earrings that are locally produced in Zwelihle. “We’ve had a phenomenal response since opening on 10 December,” says Leanne. “Our stall is really busy and it’s wonderful being able to interact with people who share our passion for photography.” Leanne points out that although our town has no shortage of art galleries, we do not have one photographic gallery. At The Photo Shed the public can now view the photographic works of five acclaimed photographers – Peter Hassall (national president of South African Professional Photographers and leading architecture photographer), Martin Kristiansen (based in Johannesburg), Mark Jago (local wave art specialist), Lawrance Brennon (The Overberg Studio) and Leanne Dryburgh, who specialises in portraiture, weddings and nature conservation. The Hermanus News is pleased to announce the winners of the Color Run competition. The winners of the family pack (4 tickets per prize) are: • Raymond Calitz • Heidi Nortier • Adri Thiart The winners of the double pack (2 tickets per prize) are: • Sonja Africa • Lee-Anne Kruger • Caren Stemmet Congratulations to all the winners. The prizes include vouchers for Superbalist and TakeALot. Residents and holiday makers alike can get
As the Western Cape manager of SAPP, Leanne has 23 years of experience and is also an accredited photographic educator. Since relocating to Hermanus two years ago her business has gone from strength to strength. Apart from thephotowalkers.com’s involvement with Hermanus FynArts in the form of photography workshops, they also offer organised Photo-Workshops all over the country during the year, including the Hermanus Weekend Workshops on the last weekend of every month. According to Leanne, their organised PhotoTours of between 3 and 10 days are extremely popular. Destinations include the Cape Peninsula, Hermanus and the Cape Whale Coast, Cape Agulhas and the Overberg, the West Coast and Namaqualand, the Cape Winelands, the Garden Route, the Karoo, KZN Midlands and Botswana. Leanne’s passion for conservation has also led to the development of their photographic hiking tours, PhotoWalking for Conservation, which include the Fynbos Trail, the Boland Trail and the Whale Trail. “These tours are like a five-star holiday at a threestar price,” says Leanne. “We are often joined by
Leanne Dryburgh and Peter Hassall of thephotowalkers.com nature lovers, conservationists, biologists and botanists who all have a special interest n photography and a passion for our natural environment, and by the end of the tour we all part as best friends.”
Color Run winners some color this December, as The Color Run South Africa is set to make super-colorful waves in this seaside town.
day of pure fun, that also gives back to the community,” says Leon Swanepoel, CEO of Sportsvendo.
The Happiest 5K on the Planet is a unique paint race that celebrates healthiness, happiness and individuality. The Color Run has exploded colour across the planet and is the single largest event series in the world! Over 4 million Color Runners have participated in the event worldwide.
Charity and school fundraising is a big part of The Color Run. Register your own school or charity on the Fun Raiser programme and raise money for every ticket sold under your unique Fun Raiser code. To give back, contact The Color Run on hello@thecolorrun.co.za.
“The Summer Holiday Tour is always a huge hit on the annual calendar for The Color Run, with holiday makers and locals alike embracing a
Color Runners will each receive a race pack with includes a 2015 edition Race T-Shirt, headband, bag of colour powder, temporary tattoos, and a race number.
The next Whale Trail will take place from 29 April – 3 May 2016. For more information on all the workshops and tours, visit www.thephotowa-lkers.com or send an email to funtimes@the-photowalkers.com
Additionally, every Color Runner will receive a R200 voucher from Takealot.com for the purchase of The Color Run powder and merchandise, as well as a R200 voucher from Superbalist to be redeemed against a minimum spend of R250. Tickets are available online from The Color Run website (http://thecolorrun.co.za) and Facebook www.facebook.com /TheColorRunSouthAfrica. Get your takkies on, and join us for The Summer Holiday Tour! When: 26 December 2015, 15H00 for 16H00 Where: HermanusHighSchool Tickets: R250 available on www.thecolorrun. co.za/hermanus/2015-12-26
For Door, Window, Folding Doors and much More
Walker Bay Aluminium Hermanus Cell: 083 652 3470 Fax: 086 670 8104 E-maiil: walkerbayaluminium@gmail.com GOOD
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News You Can Use
Every Wednesday until 20 January •The popular Hermanus Country Market hosts a Night Market every Wednesday evening during the holiday season with live music and artisanal stalls offering great eats and wine tasting.
Wednesday 23 December
19:00 and the movie starts at 20:00 on a big screen with surround sound. On 23 December you can watch While we’re young (2014) starring Ben Stiller and Naomi Watts and on 30 December they’ll be screening Cold in July (2014) with Sam Shepard, Michael C. Hall and Don Johnson. The all-inclusive cost is R135 pp. Out-of-towners can enjoy South Hill’s mid-week stayover package which includes the Wednesday supper and movie, overnight accommodation and a farm-style breakfast from R600 per head sharing. Contact events@southhill.co.za for more details or to be added to their movie mailing list.
• Boxing Day Cricket at the Stanford Village Green, all day from 09:00-16:00. This popular charity event has been going for over 10 years. There are fourteen cricket teams, some featuring celebrities Schalk Burger, Bob Skinstad, Robbie Fleck amongst others. There will be a potjiekos competition too; participants can enter on the day. Contact Mark Erwee on 082 683 6313.
Monday 28 December
Saturday 26 December
• Whale Coast Conservation invites everyone to come along for a Moonlight Meander up Hoy’s Koppie from 20:00. This is a new event on the Hermanus holiday calendar and is suitable for the whole family – from granny and gramps down to the little ones in prams. It will be near full moon, but you are advised to bring a light (torch, headlamp or solar lantern) to light the way along the wheel-friendly contour path. This will form a spectacular ring of light around the koppie, and photographers will capture the image and spread the story far and wide. Who would not want to be part of that? Meanderers will meet at 20:00 in the parking area on the north side of the koppie (mountain side). Please park along nearby roads, or even better, walk to the start. Just before setting off, Dr Robin Lee of the Hermanus History Society will tell everyone briefly why the koppie is an icon in Hermanus. The Meander will end at the cave on the koppie where a big surprise is planned. (Get your singing voices ready.) There is a small charge of R20 per person at the start. Children under 12 and anyone on 4 wheels is free. All proceeds will go to Whale Coast Conservation’s environmental education projects – and more eco-adventures.
Wednesday 23 & 30 December •Hermanuspietersfontein will host a special Evening Food & Wine Market every Wednesday evening until the end of December with live music (Frazer Barry on 23 Dec and Matt Cartsens on 30 Dec). Chill out with family and friends, great food and wine. • South Hill wine estate in Elgin hosts their Supper & Movie Evenings every Wednesday at the South Hill tasting room / restaurant in Elgin. Drinks are served from 18:30, followed by supper at
Kindness a most valuable gift one can give someone
• The Hermanus Country Market takes place every Saturday from 08:00 at the cricket grounds in Fairways Avenue, Hermanus. This is the place where good friends meet, eat, and buy beautiful things. You will find an amazing array of fresh organic produce, home-made delicacies, artisan breads, probiotic yoghurts, hand-made cheeses, home-smoked fish, happy hen eggs, wheat-free bakes, a whole variety of arts & crafts, as well as live music, plants and all things that are good for your health and happiness!
• The Colour Run starts at 16:00 from Hermanus High School. Grab your tutus, your friends, sunscreen and running slops and set off on 5km of pure happiness and fun. Color Runners get ready in the start chute at 15:00 and the start gun goes off at 16:00 for The Happiest 5km in Hermanus. Each batch starts 3 minutes apart and you’ll head off in each batch with approximately 500 new friends. It takes 1-2 hours to run or walk the route and then into the festival zone where you will enjoy music from awesome DJ’s, local acts, best-dressed competitions, food and drink, and you guessed it… more color! Tickets available through www.thecolorrun.co.za.
Saturday 26 – Sunday 27 December
Tel: 028 316 2348 Closed Mondays Open Tues to Sat from 11:30 to late and Sun 11:30 to 15:00 Sections 4 - 6 Hemel-en-Aarde Village
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• Black Oystercatcher wine estate near Elim will host the Vineyard to Wetland Cycle Challenge & Festival from 08:00-16:00. The event will include 37km and 14km mountain bike rides and a 5km fun run. The races take athletes through the rugged agricultural lands, through the region’s biodiversity-rich fynbos and between the winery’s vineyards. Relax after the race with a glass of chilled wine while Gian Groen entertains guests throughout the day. Registration for the cycle and trail run opens at 07:00. The 37km starts at 07:30 and the 14km at 08:00. The fun run sets off at 08:15. The festival runs from 08:00-16:00. Tickets are R100pp and include a branded wine glass. Children 6-17 years: R50. Children u/6: free. The cost for the 37km Cycle is R175pp (including festival entry and branded wine glass). Children u/12: R100. The cost for the 14km Cycle is R150pp (including festival entry and branded wine glass). Children u/12: R75. The cost for the 5km fun run is R20pp. Tickets available online at blackoystercatcher. co.za/events, webtickets.co.za or Pick ‘n Pay.
Tuesday 29 December
• Kaleidoskoop Live at 19:30 at the Municipal Auditorium. This new Afrikaans band is taking South Africa by storm. Tickets are R100; to book call 074 831 1463. • The popular Hermanuspietersfontein Food & Wine Market every Saturday from 09:00 has become the place where friends and families meet to tuck into breakfast or lunch, enjoy a glass of wine or just relax. A child-safe and dogfriendly environment, there is something for everyone from artisanal pies, confectionaries, fresh fruit and vegetables, cheeses, cured meats, olives, salads, breads, fresh fish and seafood delicacies to coffee, freshly made fruit juices and, of course, free wine tasting, and wine by the glass or bottle. Find Hermanuspietersfontein at The Village.
• Experience Elim’s cool-climate wines and the best traditional food from the region at Black Oystercatcher’s Traditional Food & Music Day from 11:00-17:00.
• Head out to Elim for the Sauvignon Blanc & Oyster Festival taking place over two days at the Black Oystercatcher wine farm. Relax with family and friends, and enjoy this region’s acclaimed cool-climate Sauvignon Blanc and the freshest oysters under the tents – the perfect way to enjoy a summer’s day. Singer-songwriter
Die lekkerste biltong en droëwors in die Overberg!
Enjoy waterblommetjie bredie, tripe, seafood and pot bread to the tune of music legend, the Baardskeerdersbos Orkes. Your entry fee includes a branded wine glass and buffet lunch which is served at 13:00. Limited tickets available at R290pp, Children 212 years: R190 and Children u/2: free (no food). Tickets available online at blackoystercatcher. co.za/events, webtickets.co.za or Pick ‘n Pay.
DORF.KRUG 19 Long Street, Hermanus, 7200 (028) 312 1073 or 076 594 5749
028 313 1032 Swartdamweg Industriële gebied
We are open under new German management and we serve German and Local food
Ma-Don 08:00 - 17:30 / Vry 08:00 - 18:00 Sat 08:00 - 14:00 / Son 09:00 - 12:00
We also cater for all functions, including weddings, birthday parties, baby showers & year-end functions.
Gerald Clarke will entertain guests throughout the day. Be sure to book as limited tickets are available at R100 pp (includes a branded wine glass). The cost for children 6-17 years is R50 while children u/6 enter free. Starting at 11:00 on the Saturday until 17:00 on Sunday. More information at www.blackoystercatcher.co.za/events. Tickets available online at webtickets.co.za or at Pick ‘n Pay.
Send us your news Send your SMS to 083 700 3319 and share your opinion about news and events. EMAIL
dewaal@thehermanusnews.co.za
… and a lot of German beers!
You are welcome
Look for us on &
Monday to Saturday 12h00 – 21h00 (late) and on Sunday for dinner from 5pm
On Christmas day,
we are making a special Menu for lunch and dinner.
The Hermanus News
Bookings are essential.
Book now for the New Years Eve Party!
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Wednesday 30 December – Friday 1 January
Gates open at 17:00. No alcohol allowed, but food and wine from the estate will be available for purchase at the venue. Book online via www.cluver.com.
Tickets will be available at the gate – R60 for adults and R30 for children up to 18 years. Call 028 272 9311.
• The Gugulethu Tenors will perform at the Harold Porter National Botanical Gardens in Betty’s Bay at 19:00 (gates open at 18:00). Bring family, friends and a picnic, and watch the sun go down while listening to these talented vocalists singing Afro-operatic music. Tickets will be available at the gate – R80 for adults and R40 for children up to 18 years. Contact 028 272 9311.
Wednesday 6 & 13 January
Sunday 3 January • Overstrand Arts/Kunste (OAK) presents a Schubert recital by internationally acclaimed pianist Gustavo Romero at the Municipal Auditorium at 15:30. Tickets are R120 for adults and R70 for scholars. Book with Bellini Gallery on 028 312 4988 / 082 940 4238. • Unwind with the Vines at the Electric Vines New Year’s Eve Music Festival at Wildekrans Wine Estate in Botrivier. Kicking off at 08:00 on Wednesday and lasting until 17:00 on Friday. There will be a beach bar and several music stages, including the main stage headlined by the ever popular Goldfish. Revellers can also expect hair-raising performances with supersonic surround sound, epic lighting and production effects from a line-up that includes Desmond and The Tutu’s, Shortstraw, PH fat, The Kiffness, Veranda Panda, Dean Fuel, Rider’s Connection, Nomadic Orchestra and many more. A day pass costs R490, a full pass is R790 and the VIP pass is R2 000. Various accommodation and camping options available. More information and bookings at www.electricvines.co.za.
Friday 1 January • Hermanuspietersfontein New Year’s Market is the place to chill out with family and friends on the first day of 2016. Enjoy a hearty breakfast to get you back on track after a night of celebrating. Slow Jack will be performing live and there will be no shortage of great food and wine.
Contact events@southhill.co.za for more details or to be added to their movie mailing list.
Saturday 9 January
• South Hill wine estate in Elgin hosts their Supper & Movie Evenings every Wednesday at the South Hill tasting room / restaurant. Drinks are served from 18:30, followed by supper at 19:00 and the movie starts at 20:00 on a big screen with surround sound. On 6 January you can watch Love and Mercy (2014) starring John Cusack, Elizabeth Banks and Paul Dano, and on 13 January they’ll be screening Blue Jasmine (2013) with Cate Blanchett, Alec Baldwin and Peter Sarsgaard. The all-inclusive cost is R135 pp. Out-of-towners can enjoy South Hill’s mid-week stayover package which includes the Wednesday supper and movie, overnight accommodation and a farm-style breakfast from R600 per head sharing.
• The Caledon Hotel & Spa presents The Rockets Live at their Swartberg venue at 20:00 (doors open at 19:30). Tickets are R100 pp, available at hotel reception or through Computicket.
• Louise Carver and Watershed Live will perform a sunset concert at Stanford Hills Estate at 17:30. Louise Carver and Craig Hinds from Watershed, who have known each other for years and previously worked together, have put together a stunning collaboration of their smash hits and ballads that will enthral their audience. Gates open at 16:00 and tickets are R150 pp, available via www.louisecarver.com.
Wednesday 6 January
• Please note that the Hermanus First Fridays Artwalk has been cancelled.
Saturday 2 January
• The Parlotones will perform at the Paul Cluver Amphitheatre at 19:00. Ring in the New Year with South Africa's #1 rockers who never fail to deliver an electric evening packed with some of their greatest hits and a bottomless amount of fun. Gather your friends and family, pack a picnic, some blankets and cushions, and enjoy a magical evening under a canopy of stars. Tickets are R300 pp. Seating is on a first come, first serve basis, so make sure you come early.
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• Popular male vocalist Heinz Winckler will perform at 19:00 at the Harold Porter National Botanical Gardens, Betty’s Bay. Pack your picnic basket and bring your family and friends along for a memorable evening of great entertainment in beautiful surroundings.
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Kim, the Sharklady Originally from Cape Town, I started shark cage diving in 1992 and initially lived in Gansbaai for three years. When I moved to Hermanus 20 years ago, it was essentially a seaside village, predominantly a sought after lifestyle destination to retirees. For me, it offered the best of both worlds, affording a relaxed and quality lifestyle, with the buzz of it filling up with visitors primarily during holiday times and for the whale season. Now of course, the town is alive with a constant stream of visitors. What does being a Hermanus resident mean to you? Hermanus continues to tick all the boxes for me. This historic and special town, with its diverse and talented community, breath-taking scenery and rich plant, animal and marine life, offers an enviable lifestyle. I’ve been extremely fortunate to have travelled the world far and wide and Hermanus continues to win hands down for me as the ideal destination. What would you say are the most significant positive changes in Hermanus that you have seen over the last decades? Hermanus boasts enormously positive growth and development across the board over the last decade and the resultant explosion in tourist numbers is indicative of its lauded international destination status. Bar bad weather days, my winters are busy. Tourist comments are overwhelmingly positive with them being ‘blown away’ by Hermanus as a tourist destination. The appeal of our
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internationally lauded wine farms, blue flag beach status, varied adventure offerings, top class and varied restaurants, appealing shops, outstanding accommodation offerings and creative talent, are just some of the drawcards that have visitors flocking into the town. Our swallows are excellent ambassadors too, encouraging visitors from all corners of the world into our beautiful town. Given the substantial growth in building development in Hermanus over the last decade, what are your thoughts on the regeneration strategy of the CBD hub? I am in agreement with the regeneration of the CBD, drawing visitors into the hub of the town. Enjoyment of the rich diversity of attractive offerings available, while appreciating the historic village charm, is an enticing drawcard. I do believe too that there is room for commercial growth, as it creates business and provides employment, which has extremely positive spinoff effects. Complimentary space exists for both to operate towards positive growth. How do you see your role in the future of this area, given your recognition as Hermanus’ Woman of the Year? I am extremely proud and grateful to have received this prestigious award. Community upliftment and charity support has been an integral and special part of my life for many years and I will continue to endorse considerate endeavours where possible. It holds true that what you put in, you get out. I have always believed in giving back to the community. What is your take on the current Hermanus tourist season?
Tourists have arrived early this summer and it bodes well for an outstanding season ahead. We truly are a prime, quality destination. What are your thoughts on the ‘ASK ME, I’M A LOCAL’ campaign to offer friendly advice to visitors? This is an excellent supportive community initiative and I’ll be wearing a badge myself. We have so much to be proud of in Hermanus and to be in a position to welcome and enhance visitors’ enjoyment of our town, is beneficial all round. When did your interest in DJing start? motivates you in following this passion?
What
I’ve had a love of music all my life. It uplifts people, it is a stress release and it is a wonderful way of giving. I first DJ’d right here in Hermanus and it progressed from my initially lugging vast quantities of CDs around to gigs, to slowly building up to the modern, state of the art equipment I now use. Hermanus is a melting pot of talent and endeavour. What would you like to see happening to strengthen our broad Hermanus offering? Much has been achieved already in showcasing the richly diverse attractions the town offers. To name just one, The First Fridays Artwalk has been an unqualified success. I believe that there is much to be said for children and young adults enjoying themselves right here with local outdoor entertainment. It obviates the need for them to have to travel distances to entertainment venues, with the
attendant associated risks. Your brand new research boat ‘Lamnidae’ is an impressive craft. Can you tell us more about her? Lamnidae is a name depicting five species of shark, namely the Longfin and Shortfin Mako, the Great White, the Salmon Shark and the Porbeagle. It took a year to do her up properly and I have just got a second permit to operate her. She is 26ft, with two 85 horse power engines. She is very low to the water, so is stable and ideally suited to the work she is designed for. We are researching the use of sound as a means of attracting sharks, instead of luring them through chumming. On board, she has a high tech scientific computer, hydrophones (underwater microphones) and an amplifier. We are one of only two local companies who hold permits to undertake research with qualified biologists on hand. As we approach the end of 2015, what would you like Hermanusites to wish for each other in the coming new year? We can all be justifiably proud of our town. Working alongside each other and encouraging individual endeavour towards the greater good, can only benefit us all. Kathy Mulock-Bentley
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Sharklady Adventures has been operating from Kleinbaai for the last 23 years. Have you been a resident of Hermanus for all that time, or longer?
History is alive and well in Hermanus “We are committed to bringing the history of Hermanus alive to residents and visitors and also to encourage the collection and preservation of historical resources,” says Angela Heslop of the Hermanus History Society. With that in mind the society recently launched a brand new website (www.hermanus-historysociety.co.za) aimed at creating not only a hub for historical documents but also to create a space where the stories of our town can be told. And with such a vibrant and colourful history it is not difficult to get lost for hours on end on the website reading about this seaside town, its people and its heritage.
• In 1902 the name of Hermanuspietersfontein was officially changed to Hermanus on the motivation of the Post Office. The town grew slowly through the early years of the 20th century, but, in the 1940s an artist’s colony grew up at Onrus and, since the 1960s, retirement villages and complexes have brought in a whole new and quite affluent population. As this grew, younger people and many professionals moved to Hermanus to serve the needs of the growing settled population and in search of good education and a safe environment for their children.
Other interesting titbits: The toll gate On the Hermanus side of the narrow entrance to the Hemel-en-Aarde valley, a government toll house and toll-bar were installed in 1897. Tariffs included two pennies (2c) per wheel per vehicle, six pennies per wheel on a wagon without a brake, and so on. Toll money caused much hardship to poor people in the valley. Farmers appealed for the abolition of the toll but their pleas were ignored. After World War II the toll tax was discontinued. A tight-fisted Caledon farmer refused to pay the government.
Here are some highlights: • Hermanus has been described in many ways: “Village of the Sea” showcases the fishing and holiday life. “Riviera of the South” focuses on the reputation of the town to tourists and the health conscious. “Whale capital” of the Whale Coast, which offers the “best land-based whale watching in the world”, refers to the rise in environmental tourism. For others, Hermanus is the centre of the fynbos region, with natural botanical riches for research, collecting and painting. • The name of our town: Since 1902 the first name of a real person, Hermanus, has been the official designation of this bustling town. In the 1820s Hermanus Pieters, an itinerant schoolmaster, was told by people working at the leper colony in the Hemel-en-Aarde valley about a ‘fontein’ or spring of fresh water flowing into the sea roughly where Marine Drive today passes Swallow Park – also named for a real schoolteacher, Magdalena ‘Swallow” Neethling. He located the spring and told farmers about the good grazing to be found there. Gradually the area around it became known as Hermanuspietersfontein (the spring of Hermanus Pieters). • However, at least three decades were to go by before anyone settled in the area. This did not happen until after the wreck of the British troopship the Birkenhead at Danger Point had drawn in fisher folk then living at Herries Bay – the present Hawston. They came upon the safe inlet we now call the Old Harbour and decided to move their fishing boats and themselves to the new area in 1855. From then on the name of a village Hermanuspietersfontein begins to appear in the official documents of the time.
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On Tuesdays the toll was free. He passed the toll before daylight and after off-loading and doing his business in Hermanus returned the same day – toll free. A horse with four white feet was allowed to pass toll fee. Hence the Afrikaans saying “witvoetjie soek” (to seek white feet – i.e. to seek favour).
In the same year the name changed to Camphill. The Leper Colony The farm Attakwaskloof, known as Hemel-enAarde, belonged to a widow, Susan Niemand who was herself a leper. Attaquaskloof was the home of the Attaqua Koi tribe [Attakwa meaning Men of Atta]. The settlement started with huts and vegetable gardens in 1817. A hospital was built for the benefit of 120 lepers by the English Government. Dr Edmund Burrows wrote in Overberg Odyssey, “A Moravian missionary of Genadendal became steward of and ministered to the lepers. The celebrated Dr James Barry inspected the colony and instructed great improvements in the conditions, food and bathing in the sea by those inmates who could walk.”
buildings. Volmoed After the lepers left, the farm where the leper colony was situated, was divided into two farms, one of them Volmoed, meaning “full of courage” in recognition of those who ministered to the lepers. In 1983, Bernard Turkstra and Harry Wood had a vision that South Africa needed a setting for a reconciliation ministry. The Volmoed community was established in 1986 and over the next 20 years slowly developed into a dedicated Christian retreat where people can receive spiritual care.
Dr Burrows also refers to the leper colony as “the first specialized public health institution established in South Africa”. A well-known traveller, Teenstra, passed the hospital in 1825 and remarked: “The building was very large, but the windows were set so high and from outside it looked like a prison.” None of the patients were in the hospital voluntarily but were forced to be there by their illness. About 400 lepers are said to be buried in the valley. In 1846 the remaining patients were transferred to Robben Island. Jose Burman wrote in 1989 that there was no trace left of the leper colony buildings. “Only a heap of stones showed the spot of the colony.” He believed that the farmers of Vrede, where the colony was situated, were fearful that leprosy was still contagious and demolished the
The De Bos Dam An important milestone in the development of the water supply for Greater Hermanus was the implementation of the De Bos Water Scheme in 1976. Before the dam was built, however, a water dispute was brewing in 1973 and the presiding judge at the case was Judge Marius Diemont. www.hermanus-history-society.co.za Contact: aheslop@hermanus.co.za Tel: 028 312-1663
The Preekstoel rock The “Preekstoel” (pulpit) rock overhanging the road near the toll house was a magnificent sight but the growth in traffic and potential danger of a blind corner led to road widening. In 1960, the Preekstoel had to be destroyed using more than 300 loads of dynamite to accomplish the task Camphill School and Community Farm In 1952 a Rudolph Steiner school was founded by Frank and May Redman. Today Camphill provides supportive schooling and care for children, adolescents and adults with special needs. Early in the 1970s a trained Waldorf teacher, Lawrence Adler joined the school and it soon became a thriving village on the two farms providing a stimulating social life and work for the residents. Festivals and artistic activities form part of their annual programme.
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SANTA SURPRISE - The little ones were overjoyed when Santa paid a surprise visit to the Hermanus Country Market on Wednesday afternoon to hand out presents. Apart from the usual Saturday morning Country Market, the Night Market will take place every Wednesday evening until the end of January.
ACTIONPHOTOZ ONRUS TOUCHIES TOURNAMENT - The Onrus Touchies Tournament held over the weekend turned the popular Onrus beach into a festive playground as teams battled it out on the sand. Local residents and holiday makers both young and old enjoyed the spectacle as they spent the day relaxing on the beach.
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Hermanus sporting facilities available to our holiday makers Golf Club is a 27 hole GOLF: The Hermanus s of the most prestigiou golf course and one t ou lay t en ific gn this ma in the country. Enjoy ers. off b clu the s ilitie fac and all the catering
ions take place on Members' competit n urday in the afternoo Wednesday and Sat visitors ys, da ed erv res se and other than the in joy a round of golf are welcome to en on sed clo ly season and on throughout the festive nds. The club is open y. these beautiful surrou prior to pla bookings open 1 week Xmas Day. Advance icap golfers' fees are R370 and non SA hand are s lfer go p ica nd SA ha Visitors' green fees for lf. R550 for 18 holes of go R135, which er 4.30 pm at a cost l is open every day aft cia spe ht ilig Tw le ho The popular 9 ss of wine. includes a beer or gla 028 312-1954. r information contact For bookings and furthe
BOWLS: The Hermanus Bowls Club is situated in Magnolia Street, near the municipal offices. The club is the largest in the Overberg and was formed in 1937. The club has 3 greens, with club bowls on Tuesday, Wednesday, Thursday and Saturday afternoons. Visitors are welcome with ''tabs in" at 1.30 pm and a fee of R30. The greens are also open on Fridays and Sundays and bowls are available if required.
1. Which South African soccer team is known as "The Birds''? Answer: Moroka Swallows 2. Which South African has won the most golf majors? Answer: Gary Player 3. Which city hosted the 2000 Olympic games? Answer: Sydney, Australia 4. Which cricketer has the highest average in test cricket? Answer: Sir Donald Bradma 5. Who has recently been appointed as coach of the English Rugby Union team? Answer: Eddie Jones
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Here is a taste of our sports quiz which will be a sponsored corner in the weeks ahead with prizes for our readers. In the meantime try your hand at the following questions. submit your name, telephone number and answers via email to news@thehermanusnews.co.za 1. Which team did South Africa beat in the finals of the 2015 Rugby Sevens tournament played in Cape Town? 2. Who is captain of the English Test Cricket team currently on tour in South Africa? 3. Who is coach of the Bidvest Wits premier league soccer team? 4. Which sports brand sponsors Orlando Pirates premier soccer team? 5. Which team won the the recent Davis Cup tennis challenge and in which country was the final played? See answers in our next edition.
njoy an e ors c it is l-env e Hem : Our s ic G n IN e BIK clude e sc that in acks. NTAIN rough th in a r r r MOU h t t a te gle trails along ks and sin states on bike alley c e V a r e t e ul win is the jeep Aard ents nderf ads, o o m r w h s e m e r h f t far e ils are r h a g r r p fo ike t throu o b , t s lue o in ls a a A e nt m), b wher . Mou een (6.5 k nd a ) route f the day r m g o k (42k lour – r c ia o e c la d r o b y o b rt t Eu d ), sho nated gin a the desig ), red (35km e trails be e r e m . Th e wh (12.5k ck (68km) Villag er e la h T b R25 p long the olars h ys. c in s a s turd and Cycle rmits on Sa stem is e p m r p o 1 x sy to ay f 9am per d sty bo ance to y R50 days and e an hone tr a n e p s her eek main Adult w w e . , s h d t e m e is e tain tsid to 5p op prem be ob om 9am ed ou s.co.za. the sh ly display s can fr re it e n u t m id e r s t ar op pe dven es ou is cle ssary les is nusa a all tim ormation m t r nece odia Cyc a ble w.he inf Eu taina ct ww ssary day. re ob onta nece a c s e n it h t tio Perm n. All orma eratio further inf in op r o F op. the sh
Stand the change to win a free car wash by simply entering the Hermanus News Sport Quiz. Send your answers and contact details to news@thehermanusnews.co.za and if you have answered all the questions correctly your name will go into a lucky draw to have your car washed at Eastcliff Auto. CONGRATULATIONS to this week’s winner - ARLENE EHRENBERG
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Answers To Sports Quiz 8th December
Sports Quiz No. 6
SEA KAYAKING: This is organised by Walker Bay Adventures and is an extremely popular guided eco-marine tour. The kayaks leave from the Old Harbour 3 times daily at 8am, 10.30am and 1pm. Other than Xmas day, these tours are available throughout the festive season. The guided eco-marine tour is a 90 minute adventure at a cost of R350 per person. Enquiries and bookings via Herman on 082 739 0159.
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Coaching clinics are free of charge and Mondays are set aside for this. There is also a bowls outlet at the club selling the necessary equipment and apparel. Bookings can be made at the club on 028 312-4073 or through the manager, Piet Meyer, on cell number 083 952 4322.
FLY FISHING: Visitors wishing to try their hand at this are welcome. The magnificent Sumaridge dam, situated on the Sumaridge wine estate in the picturesque Hemel-en-Aarde Valley is available for our holiday makers. The dam is very well stocked with rainbow trout, so why not order a picnic and a bottle of wine from the tasting room while enjoying the experience. The cost for visitors is R100 per person and bookings can be made with Cornel at Hermanus Property Sales on 028 313-0914.
TENNIS and SQUASH: The Hermanus Tennis and Squash Club is situated on the corner of Main and Spence Streets, near the municipal offices. The club has 3 squash courts and 4 all-weather tennis courts. The facility is open every day. Visitors are welcome and the hire costs are R25 per person for 45 minutes of tennis and R40 per court for 45minutes of squash. Tennis and squash balls can be purchased at the club and racquets are available for hire at R10 per hour. Enquiries and bookings can be made at the club or on 076 545 9778.
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For the many visitors to our shores, below are some of the many sporting activities which are on offer in Hermanus and the relevant information relating thereto.
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Sport written & compiled by: Tony O’Hagan
T: 028 312 2038