The Village NEWS 27 February - 5 March 2018 by The Village NEWS

NEWS NEWS

Village

The

Mayoral Entrepreneurial Winner

27 February - 5 March 2018

Cape Whale Coast

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LIGHTHOUSE WALK

WHAT’S COOKING

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L2L ladies set to go

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Historic restaurants

What’s new in review

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SURF’s UP! Home-grown World Surf League (WSL) commentator and owner of the Surf Zone in Hermanus, Gigs Celliers, caused quite a stir when he went to the US on business and ended up winning the Kneeboard Surfing USA (KSUSA) title in Huntington Beach, California on 16 February. This is the same spot where Gigs won the world championships in 1996 but he had not been back since. “It was wonderful to return 22 years later and totally relive the experience,” he said. Gigs is a multiple world title holder, having also won various other kneeboard trophies in the 1990s. Congratulations, Gigs, on an incredible day of surfing! PHOTO: Amanda Taylor

Good news on CBD, sport and baboons T

receive an initial R4 million towards the construction of the first facilities, and R14 million has been set aside for the management of our baboon,” said Mayor Elect, Dudley Coetzee. (Read more on P4.)

“The CBD will receive an allocation of R3 million to kickstart the CDB regeneration project, the Sport Centre will

Coetzee presented the 2017/’18 adjustment budget, the draft budget for 2018/’19 and the proposed update to the Integrated Development Plan (IDP) at a public meeting

De Waal Steyn here was good news for the Hermanus CBD, the Sport Centre and the management of baboons in the Municipality’s proposed budget for 2018/’19.

of the Overstrand Municipal Advisory Forum (OMAF) on Tuesday, 20 February. (Read more on P3.) “After talks between the administration and the provincial government reached an impasse on who’s mandate it is to manage the ongoing baboon problems, I have engaged Anton Bredell, Western Cape Minister of Local Government, Environmental Affairs and Develop-

ment Planning, in new talks on the matter. “Should it transpire that the mandate falls under the jurisdiction of the Municipality we need to have the funds available to manage the problem. For that reason, I have decided to allocate R14 million over the next three years to enable us to tackle this problem head-on,” he said. (Read more on P4.)

With regards to the Sport Centre, it was announced late last year that a total of R7.6 million will be made available to the Sport Centre. This comes after the sale of the piece of land commonly known as the ‘circus grounds’ near the Gateway Centre to Massbuild. The tender for the sale amounted to R22.8 million – R6.1 million more than the tendered value of R16.7 million. The profit enabled the Municipality to

approve the payment to the Sport Centre (next to the Cricket Club) that was started in 2012. According to the Municipality the money will be used to relocate the current tennis and squash courts to the Sport Centre and to complete the clubhouse. The current tennis and squash courts next to the Municipality are in dire need of an upgrade that will cost more than R400 000.

27 February - 5 March 2018

THE

NEWS

OPINION Matters

Make the time to study budgets It is that time of year again, when you are bombarded with budget after budget after budget. To be honest, budgets are not the most interesting things to deal with, and so much more when you must read about them. Every day, it seems, there is a new set of figures to get your head around. If it’s not the national budget it’s business budgets and financial year-end for many companies. But as important as your home budget is for getting the figures to balance at the end of the month, so important are our local municipal budgets. Last week the Municipality presented the adjustment budget for 2017/’18 and the draft budget for 2018/’19. These budgets will be open for public comment respectively from 28 February and 28 March. These are the budgets that inform what will happen in your community, what you pay for water, electricity, refuse removal, rates and sewerage. These budgets allow for,

amongst other things, roads, streetlights, water and sewerage plants and other public amenities. It is therefore vitally important for every resident to study these documents and have their say during the public participation phase. If you do not take the time to comment, your voice will not be heard. For the draft budget for 2018/’19 credit is needed where it is due. Coming from a somewhat precarious financial position in 2014, to a situation where funds for the revitalisation of the Hermanus CBD, the management of baboons and the Sport Centre can be made available is indeed good news. The proactive way in which provision is made to repair, replace and improve our basic infrastructure should be an example to other municipalities plagued by crumbling resources. It is due to the foresight of the Municipality that the Overstrand does not have a shortage of water at present. This is the good NEWS – Ed

WHERE TO FIND US The Village NEWS is published fortnightly and the next edition will be available on 6 March. The NEWS can be found at over 100 distribution points on the Cape Whale Coast, from Pringle Bay to Gansbaai. Get your FREE copy from major retail stores such as Spar, Checkers and Pick n Pay, and at restaurants, tasting rooms, galleries and shopping centres. Should you wish to receive a copy, call us on 028 312 2234 or 083 228 7523 or pop into our office at 6 Royal Street, Hermanus. Ombudsman The press exists to serve society. Its freedom provides for independent scrutiny, and is essential to ensuring demo-cracy. It enables citizens to make informed judgments, a role that is recognised by the Constitution. The Village NEWS subscribes to the South African Press Code and thus to the South African Press Council and the South African Press Ombudsman. Should you feel our reporting is not fair, free or unbiased and without prejudice, or that serious errors have been made, you are welcome to lay a complaint with the Ombudsman. Reach him on 011 484 3612/8, e-mail pressombudsman.org.za or visit www.ombudsman.org.za

Now every Tuesday is NEWSday Despite the popular notion that printed media is in decline and the future of newspapers is uncertain, The Village NEWS has constantly bucked the trend. The demand from readers all over the Cape Whale Coast looking for good, interesting and informative news has prompted us to change our publishing schedule from fortnightly to weekly. The continuous positive feedback we receive from both readers and advertisers gives us the confidence to move into this new role as a permanent weekly feature in our area. It is heart warming after every edition to receive so much positive feedback on our newspaper and it inspires us in our search to tell the stories of our region. The move to a weekly publication will make The Village NEWS, with a certified print-run of 7 000 copies, the largest newspaper in the Overstrand. With unread copies adding up to single digits and a distribution network that stretches from Pringle Bay to Kleinbaai, we are confident in our ability to bring you your weekly dose of ‘news you can use’. Copies are also delivered in Elgin, Botrivier and as far as Villiersdorp. Due to the current shortage of available copies the number of newspapers delivered to retailers, shopping centres and selected businesses will be increased over the next couple of weeks. Be sure to keep your eyes open for our stands at your favourite local shops. Not only will The NEWS now be the largest paper, it is also the only free newspaper that is wholly locally owned and operated. As a proudly local company, we have decided to re-invest in local businesses by incorporating a Business Explorer section into the first edition of every month. This section will highlight local businesses and their owners and tell their stories. The Business Explorer will also serve as a platform for inform-

ation regarding The Village NEWS Service Excellence Awards that will be held in conjunction with the annual Mayoral Awards towards the end of the year. The Excellence Awards is aimed at celebrating local businesses on the Whale Coast and ensure only the best customer service at participating businesses. Read more about the awards in the next edition. Coupled to the growth of the printed edition, The Village NEWS has also shown enormous growth in its online presence. The newspaper is one of a select few papers that fully embrace social media not only as a source of information but also as an outlet for its content. On Facebook the various pages and groups published by The NEWS now has close on 20 000 followers. This translated during February into more than 140 000 active users, while the posts reached more than 410 000 unique users, resulting in close on 2,3 million impressions. Equally popular is the online PDF edition of The Village NEWS. During February the digital version was read more than 2 100 times and garnered 85 500 impressions. The digital version of the newspaper has since its inception accumulated 20 000 readers from South Africa, 3 200 from Europe, 1 100 from North America and 230 from the Middle East. On our latest online venture into the world of Instagram, The NEWS has quickly gained more than 1 050 followers, resulting in more than 4 000 impressions per week, with almost an equal number of users in Hermanus and Cape Town. The Village NEWS website (www.thevillagenews.co.za) will also be up and running within the next few weeks. Together with the growth of the newspaper the team at the office has also grown. We are fortunate to welcome Kathy Mulock-Bentley back into the fold. Kathy, first joined the team in December 2015 in the mark-

eting department before taking a year off. She has more than 25-years’ experience as a versatile and creative marketer, administrator, copywriter, proof reader and customer interface leader in the publishing, wine, hospitality and banking industries. She has qualifications in marketing management, wine and senior secretarial work. Apart from full days at The NEWS office, Kathy also runs Chartwell Marketing and Communications Support that provides strategic marketing planning, communication and administrative support to a host of companies. Kathy is a seasoned marketer and communications specialist and with her wealth of knowledge she adds depth to our marketing department, together with The NEWS’ marketing manager, Rina de Wet. Taylum Meyer joined the team at the beginning of the year as photographer and social media journalist. She matriculated from Hermanus High School in 2013 with full academic colours and six distinctions, placing eighth in the grade. In 2014 Taylum began working part time for Bargain Books and Milkwood Restaurant where she became a junior manager. After studying photography part time, she joined an e-commerce store in Cape Town which sparked her interest in graphic design. At the end of 2016 she moved back to Hermanus and assisted her family in setting up an e-commerce store which is still up and running today. Apart from putting in full days at The NEWS, Taylum also works part-time for her family’s e-commerce store, volunteers at Hermanus Animal Welfare and still takes photos wherever she goes. In addition, seasoned journalist Olivia Shaffer, experienced freelance writer and subeditor, Sarah Taylor, motoring journalist John Floyd, and well-known freelance writer and fundraiser, Elaine Davie have also joined the newspaper on a freelance basis to help bring you the most informative and interesting stories about our region.

27 February - 5 March 2018

Budget aimed at infrastructure

he draft budget proposed for the 2018/’19 financial year will focus on the repair, improvement and installation of much needed infrastructure to maintain the high quality service levels in the Overstrand. “Four years ago, we started to consolidate our financial position by reducing expenditure and increasing revenue slightly. This has resulted in improved liquidity levels that we are already benefiting from,” said Mayor Elect, Dudley Coetzee, at the presentation of the 2018/’19 draft budget last week. According to him the Municipality will now also embark on further capital projects to address ageing and leaking water reticulation mains, as well as sewerage reticulation projects. “These developments require large amounts of capital, resulting in us drawing on our cash reserves. However, we will reap the benefits of these investments in future.” Coetzee said year on year inflation recorded at the end of December 2017 was just below 6%. It is projected that inflation this year will increase to 6% from July 2018, following the increased electricity tariffs. “It is against this background that we prepared the 2018/’19 draft budget.” This draft budget makes provision for either a zero or minor increase on all expense items that the Municipality has control over, with only properly motivated and escalation-related items being considered. We have received an indication that electricity costs for Municipalities from Eskom will increase with 7.32%, based on increases applicable from 1 July annually. These increases have been considered in the electricity tariff structure for 2018/’19, with a total basket for average households adding up to an increase of 7.32%

in electricity costs. “The basic charge for electricity will increase by 9% and to offset this the unit increases will be as follows: the first 350 units by 6.5%, the next 250 units by 6.9% and all units above 600, at 7.32% increase. This results in an average increase of 7.34% for the first 350 units of electricity consumed,” he said. Coetzee said to ensure that the Municipality continues to build up its reserve, property rates were increased by 7.2% across the board in this current year. However, proposed property rates for 2018/’19 will only increase with 6%. The rebate on property rates offered to persons over the age of 60 remains unchanged. Calculating the sewerage charge for water-borne sewerage on 70% of potable water consumed, with a cap of 35 kℓ, remains the way water-borne sewerage charges are to be levied. “The tariffs for refuse removal, sewerage, and water all increase by 6% in the draft budget. The exception here is the tariff for 0 – 6 kℓ of water which increases by 11.5%. 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 R24.66 per kℓ. “Salary increase negotiations for Municipal employees are not finalised yet on a national level and thus a 5.8% annual salary adjustment is included in the draft budget, as well as an average notch adjustment, in total providing for a salary budget increase of 8.11%,” concluded Coetzee.

The Draft Budget for 2018/’19 will be open for public comment from 28 March.

Proposed budget in a nutshell: The total draft capital budget amounts to R148.7 million and the operating budget to R1.07 billion. Capital projects: Electricity: R22.2 million Substation:

R3.5 million

Networks:

R18.7 million

Water: R32.1 million Water master plan implementation:

R10 million

Networks and reservoirs:

R22.1 million

Sewage: R29.2 million Sewage master plan implementation: R4 million Networks:

R23.4 million

Pumps and pipelines:

R1.8 million

Bulk storm water: R3.1 million Roads: R6.5 million CBD regeneration:

R3 million

Roads rehabilitation:

R3.5 million

Sport and recreation: R4.1 million Spaces for sports:

R100 000

Hermanus Sports Club:

R4 million

Community and Social Services: R9 million Fencing of Thusong Centre:

R1.2 million

Fencing Hawston camping site:

R1.9 million

Libraries:

R600 000

Ward specific projects:

R5.2 million

Public Safety: R2.3 million Protection services facilities:

R1 million

Jaws of life:

R800 000

CCTV cameras:

R500 000

ICT, Minor Assets & Vehicles: R20 million ICT:

R3.8 million

Minor assets:

R1.3 million

Vehicles:

R14.9 million

Housing grant projects: R20.2 million

In terms of the 2017/’18 adjustment budget, an increase in expenditure of R8.5 million and an increase in revenue of R40.8 million have been proposed. The major expenditure items include adjustments in operational costs of R12.5 million, housing projects adjustments of R4 million and a saving of R8 million on the salary budget, while revenue items include additional rates and services income of R10.5 million, additional interest on investments of R5.5 million, additional housing grants of R4 million and income of R20.8 million from gains on the disposal of assets.

27 February - 5 March 2018

CBD regeneration finally becomes a reality De Waal Steyn

fter years of having no available funds to implement the Hermanus CBD Regeneration Project, the Municipality has come to the table by earmarking R3 million to kickstart the project. The regeneration of the Hermanus Old Town has been on the cards for many years and was adopted by Council in 2016 and included in the 2017 to 2022 Integrated Development Plan (IDP). “We are fully committed to regenerating the Old Town and the R3 million we have set aside in the 2018/’19 budget is the first of the allocations that will come in the next few years. It has been estimated that it will cost in the region of R20 million to complete the project,” said Dudley Coetzee, Mayor Elect.

The need to revitalise the CBD has come in the spotlight again after the establishment of the Hermanus Old Town (HOT) initiative at the end of 2017 under the auspices of the Hermanus Business Chamber. According to HOT chairperson, Hamish Hofmeyr, a group of likeminded business owners came together to share and discuss their vision for the regeneration of the CBD and to build up renewed energy for preserving the old town, its character and charm. “After meeting with the Municipality and learning of the money that has been made available, we are extremely positive about the project and the future of the Old Town. What we now must do is to identify the most important projects in conjunction with all the other role players. We will then discuss this with the Municipality

before we kick off the projects,” said Hamish.

derelict and losing its attraction for tourists.”

According to him the idea is to demarcate the Old Town as a branded tourist attraction that draws visitors to the historical landmarks and places of interest to visit. “We want to further enhance the town through greening the area with trees and plants, encouraging outdoor settings along the streets, repainting and repairing buildings where necessary and improving the paving and sidewalk surfaces. We have already had some success with two owners of buildings agreeing to repaint their properties.”

HOT has in mind to further beautify the town by painting selected blank walls in some of the lanes with murals depicting the significant features of the Old Town.

HOT has appealed to all interested parties and all businesses in the CBD to become part of the project. “We need as much public participation as possible. This is for the betterment of our environment and to save our Old Town from becoming

“We are also planning on improving visual signage of which there is a dire lack at the moment. It is important to link all the sights together and at the same time highlight the unique history of our town. Creating walkways in certain areas will lead to the creation of street markets and entertainment, much like in many European towns and cities,” said Hamish. The question of safety and security is also an important issue that will be addressed. According to Hamish the current parking system with hand-written receipts is a huge frustration, together

with the informal evening car guards who are not regulated at all. “We have had many instances of people being intimidated into paying the informal car guards and in one incident two of them attacked each other with knives during a squabble over who is responsible for which parking bays. This happened in full view of tourists and created a very bad impression. “Overall there is a huge need to improve visible policing in the Old Town both during the day and at night,” he said. Mayor Elect Coetzee said he will ensure that the tender problems with regards to the car guards are sorted out as soon as possible and that the possibility of extending the operating hours of the formal guards to include evening shifts, will be investigated. The regeneration plan includes six focus areas: An

upgrading of the taxi rank and municipal precinct, the upgrade of Swallow Park and Marine Drive, the redevelopment of Mitchell Square, the pedestrianisation of High Street, improved facilities at Lemm’s Corner and the upgrading of the Old Harbour precinct. Coetzee emphasized that the upgrading of the taxi rank and the establishment of a bus terminal for tour busses to park overnight is not included in the current planning and will form part of additional projects. “It is important for us to find a spot where we can allow tour busses to park overnight. The facility needs to include cleaning facilities as well as sewerage dumping points. If we develop this, the number of especially international tourists will increase. The upgrading of the taxi rank will cost in the region of R10 million and will follow at a later stage.”

R14 million to help manage baboon problems The ongoing baboon problem in the Overstrand is set to receive a huge boost after R14 million was allocated in the draft budget of the Overstrand Municipality for 2018/’19. The management of baboons has become a contentious issue after continued incursions by baboons in suburbs across Hermanus have left residents at their wit’s end. According to Mayor Elect, Dudley Coetzee, the funds have been provisionally set aside for baboon management over the next three years in all wards where baboon incursions are a problem. This follows the implementation of a virtual fence last year aimed at keeping baboons out of Voëlklip. Due to a lack of

funding the project ground to a halt by the end of last year after an initial three-week blitz by Human Wildlife Solutions (HWS), the manufacturers of the virtual fence, that kept the Fernkloof troop out of the affected suburbs for more than 90% of the time. The virtual fence is made up of a sophisticated radio transmitter system that relays the movements of a troop to a cellular phone. If a troop moves too close to a residential area, an alert is sent out and baboon monitors deploy sound boxes that emit sounds of predators roaring, animals dying and other frightening sound effects, including bear bangers that make a loud banging noise. The baboons are tracked via collars

attached to the troop leaders. The sounds create a ‘landscape of fear’ for the baboons and they are hesitant to move into an area with which they have come to associate the sounds. According to Coetzee the money has been provisionally set aside until clarification has been reached on whether the mandate to manage baboons falls under the jurisdiction of the Municipality or the Provincial Government. It was reported last year that both the Municipality and CapeNature maintain that the management of baboons does not form part of their mandate, leaving the field wide open for the baboons to roam on their own, free will.

Coetzee said he has entered into discussions with Anton Bredell, Western Cape Minister of Local Government, Environmental Affairs and Development Planning, on the matter. According to him, should the mandate fall under the jurisdiction of the Municipality, the money will be used to reinstate the virtual fence. Local baboon monitors will then be trained to maintain the fence. Anina Lee, Communications Manager of Whale Coast Conservation, welcomed the funds. “This is a good development for both humans and the baboons as conflict situations always have two sides. We have to protect both humans and baboons,” she said.

27 February - 5 March 2018

A journey of sweat, tears and camaraderie

he dynamic 2018 Lighthouse 2 Lighthouse ladies are all set and ready to start this year’s 4-day walk of 100 km along the pristine shore of the Southern Cape coast on Thursday morning, 1 March. The walk starts at the historic lighthouse at Cape Agulhas and finishes at Danger Point lighthouse near Gansbaai on Sunday. The annual Lighthouse2Lighthouse Ladies Walk has become an iconic event within the Overberg community since 2006 – and one that is high on many a woman’s bucket list. The main purpose of the walk is to raise funds for charities within the Overstrand Municipality, and every year this NPO, of which Ald Nicolette Botha-Guthrie is the patron, raises the bar in their fundraising efforts. The chosen beneficiary for the 2018 Walk is Hermanus Senior Centre, for whom the L2L Ladies Walk aims to raise R500 000. At the handover meeting for the 2018 Walk in the United Church hall last week, all registered walkers received their official T-shirts and other sponsored items. The main L2L sponsors and local businesses that made donations were recognised and thanked for their support, without which the walk would not be able to take place. They include SPAR (Eastcliff, Gateway and Gansbaai), Food Lover’s Market, The Beanery, Refine, Sanlam Wealth, The Eatery, Ten of Cups, Toyota Hermanus, Oasis Water, Checkers and Learn to Earn.

The meeting also provided an opportunity to meet fellow walkers, share tips on feet care and blister prevention and receive guidelines about packing and preparing for the walk. A special treat that provided much inspiration came in the form of guest speaker Erns Grundlingh, the well-known writer, journalist and intrepid hiker whose epic walk of over 1 000 km on the Camino in Spain is the topic of his book, Elders. Erns wished the ladies well on their life-changing journey and encouraged them to “find freedom, joy and meaning on your feet”. Guests lined up after the talk to purchase his book and have their copies signed. – Hedda Mittner

In the back row are Bern van Niekerk (SPAR, Eastcliff and Gateway), Carien Gooding, Marlinda Wright, Elizma Delplanque, and Elaine Bayer (The Beanery). In front: Estelle van Niekerk, Simone Heunis, Bernice Geldenhuys, Erns Grundlingh (guest speaker), Lindi Prinsloo (Refine), Janine Boshoff (L2L chairperson) and Judith Petim (Food Lover’s Market). PHOTOS: Taylum Meyer

Les Clarke (77) will be participating in her 11th L2L Ladies Walk this week.

Annarie Nel of the Hermanus Senior Centre, with author Erns Grundlingh.

Crime: A rising problem that needs a solution An attack on a motorcyclist in the early hours of Wednesday, 21 February, highlighted the importance of addressing the rising problem of crime in the Overstrand area. This incident – in which a man was shot and killed after he allegedly tried to rob a man on a motorcycle at Lynx Avenue off the R43 – happened a week after Western Cape Community Safety Minister Dan Plato paid a visit to Overstrand Municipality (OM) to discuss crime issues in the area. The biker, local resident Frans Bothma, sustained two gunshot wounds and was taken to the Worcester Provincial Hospital where he was in a stable, but serious condition. He was moved out of the intensive care unit to a general ward over the weekend.

According to the family he is doing well. The family has also appealed for any information on the good Samaritan who stopped to help Frans after the incident. They would like to thank him for his assistance. All they know is that he drove a white Corsa bakkie and called the police when he arrived on the scene. A week earlier, on 14 February, a number of role players – including representatives of the OM and the Overberg District Municipality (ODM), South African Police Service (SAPS) and representatives of various organisations that have pledged to fight crime, including the Pringle Bay and Kleinmond Street Watch – gathered for the meeting with Plato.

The meeting focused specifically on the growing problem of abalone poaching along the Overstrand’s coastline, which has stimulated organised criminal syndicates and increased drug abuse and gangsterism. It was agreed that if poaching can be controlled, many other crimes can be eradicated. Following discussions with the Premier and the Western Cape Minister of Local Government, Minister Plato also made mention of an inter-governmental bosberaad, where organisations can get involved to implement a crime prevention anti-poaching strategy. Mayor Elect Dudley Coetzee requested such a bosberaad to take place without any further delay.

His message was clear: “Everybody must work together in the fight against crime. Poachers are causing havoc and the situation is becoming worse and worse”. Other safety issues discussed at the meeting included: • the walking bus initiative in Kleinmond (parents escorting groups of learners on foot to and from school; • crime in general; • visible policing, response time and vehicles, and the lack of manpower in police stations; • mobile safety kiosks and the possibility of satellite police stations; and • additional training and registration of neighbourhood watches.

27 February - 5 March 2018

Whatever exists, something will evolve to eat it

ver the last month Whale Coast Conservation has taken its traveling expo on ‘Creatures of the Fynbos’ to schools in the Overstrand. One of the concepts we discussed with the youngsters was that “whatever exists, something will evolve to eat it”. That is nature’s way of keeping a balance between species. Organisms have defence mechanisms to protect them from being eaten, while others evolve a way to penetrate those defences. There is a delicate balance between the survival

MY NEWS Environment THE

rate of the prey and the predator and, without interference by people, both will survive as a species, at least for a long time. Take, for example, the case of the wild peach tree (Kigellaria africana). This tree has evolved over millions of years to protect itself from being eaten by

insects and browsing animals. It produces a kind of cyanide in the leaves which, as we know, is poisonous to man and beast. Quite a drastic evolutionary path that would lead one to assume it’s safe from all predation. Not so. There is an insect that also went the evolutionary way.

The larval stage (caterpillar) of the Garden Acraea butterfly (Acraea horta) has evolved a way to flourish on the Kigellaria leaves. A small army of these caterpillars can totally strip a tree. But don’t panic and reach for the insecticide spray. The tree will recover to be more vigorous than before. The caterpillar has developed

a way of sequestering the cyanide in the spines on its skin, thus removing the poison from the caterpillar’s inner metabolism. Now it – and its butterfly – are poisonous to most birds, and hence relatively safe from predation. Enter the one bird that knows how to deal with this acrid insect – Klaas’s Cuckoo. This bird has learned to whack the Acraea caterpillar on a branch until its guts spill out. Then it eats the innards, leaving the skin with cyanide-laden spikes behind.

As I said – whatever exists in nature, something will evolve to eat it in order to keep a balance between different species. Yet there is one species on earth that is not in balance with nature and causing wholesale destruction of plants and animals, namely Homo sapiens. I wonder what will evolve to eat humans. Or will we, like the Easter Islanders, engineer our own extinction by depleting all our natural resources and end up eating each other? - Anina Lee

Learning more about our fynbos creatures The Green House in Vermont, headquarters of Whale Coast Conservation, opened its doors to the public last week when it hosted an Expo on Fynbos Creatures, funded by the National Lotteries Commission. WCC staff and volunteers, who had taken the Expo to several schools in the Overstrand in the previous weeks, were on hand at the different stations to demonstrate and share information on everything from the function of birds in pollination and seed dispersal and how they construct their nests, to the important role of the thousands of spiders species that keep the world’s insect population under control. Dr Vic Hamilton-Attwell also talked about the new spider species he has collected in Fernkloof Nature Reserve, while WCC Board member Dr Pat Miller discussed baboons, their habits and social behaviour. Volunteer Daphne Bayer enthralled the learners with stories about chameleons. She explained how the colour pattern on a chameleon is unique for each animal and can serve as identification. She

From left are Sheraine van Wyk with Indra Kuschke, Anina Lee, Kathy Cupido of Generation Schools, Lily and Jett Uys. PHOTOS: Taylum Meyer - Titanium Photography stressed the need for their conservation as human settlement is increasingly intruding on their habitat. Immediately after the expo Sheraine van Wyk had a brief meeting with the volunteers for the WCC chameleon relocation project, which also kicked off last week in Ver-

mont. Chameleons at risk of development or brush cutting were collected and taken to a safer habitat. For more information about this project or if you would like to volunteer to get involved, please contact sheraine.wcc@gmail.com. According to WCC Communi-

cations Manager Anina Lee, more than 100 enthusiastic adults and children attended the expo and declared that they had learned things they never knew before. Keep an eye open for details of WCC’s upcoming ecoadventures and presentations. – Hedda Mittner

Dr Vic Hamilton-Attwell talking about one of his favourite subjects – spiders – during the WCC Expo. Vic will be doing a presentation on spiders at The Green House in Vermont on Tuesday 20 March.

27 February - 5 March 2018

Locals take fire fighting into own hands pool or river to fill the second trailer unit. The equipment will be maintained by the Ward 2 Forum and housed at the Greyton Museum complex in Main Road for easy access.

Naomi Herselman

hanks to the generosity of the Greyton community, the village recently replaced the fire equipment that was destroyed a year ago after devastating veld fires in the area.

The operating functionality, as an additional volunteer service to assist the Overberg District Municipality (ODM), will be a Joint Venture between ODM and CapeNature, structured in the format of an MOU (Memorandum of Understanding).

Good folk donated close on R125 000 into a trust fund and Derek Crabtree from Ward 2 Forum personally rebuilt the equipment with the help of George Juries and friends’ expertise.

A full demonstration of the equipment will be held soon to muster support for the initiative. The devastation caused by fires in the area has had an enormous effect on everyone and a drive to create awareness is extremely important. Only recently, on Saturday night, 18 February, a fire tragically killed five children in Heuwelkroon.

The equipment now consists of a serviceable vehicle (short wheelbased Land Rover) with all the equipment needed to act as a first response vehicle for both fire and rescue. A trailer with a 500 litre tank is equipped with fire reel and a highpressure low-volume water jet, while a 3 500 litre water tank on a second trailer is equipped with a water pump to serve as a back-up water supply to the smaller 500 litre tank.

Although round one is now finished, money is still needed for maintenance. The equipment is worth about R400 000 and the community is grateful to people like Derek and the volunteers for their enthusiasm and passion.

A long wheel-based Land Rover was salvaged and restored to serve as another response vehicle. A separate pump is able to facilitate the drawing of water out of a

Training on all levels to educate the community on the devastating effects of fires will be held on an ongoing basis.

Jean Orban looking forward to serving Ward 13 “The fact that the DA garnered 95.2% of the votes in the Ward 13 by-election is a clear mandate and I will ensure that the residents receive the same high level of service delivery that they are used to,” says the newly elected Ward Councillor for Onrus, Jean Orban. Jean (33) and his accountant wife, Lolla (29), moved to Onrus at the end of 2014 after he was appointed as sales manager at Rola Volkswagen in Hermanus. “We immediately fell in love with Hermanus and especially with Onrus, and decided this is the perfect place to raise children.” The couple has three children, Kayla (4), Lilly (2) and Benjamin (6 months). Jean says his passion for Onrus stems from the warmth and caring nature of the residents of this closeknit community. “From the first day we were welcomed with open arms and I soon realised that becoming involved in the community is not only to my benefit but also to that of my neighbours and their neighbours. There are too many instances of work that needs to be done for the benefit of the community that falls by the wayside because everyone thinks there will be somebody

else to do the work. Well, I have decided to become that somebody else. I love seeing things happen.” Jean’s eagerness to serve his community stems from his personality as a leader. Born in Worcester, he travelled around Europe for a while before returning to his hometown and joining the NTT Volkswagen group there. After only two and a half years Jean was appointed as manager, the youngest ever in the history of the group. “I love to lead from the front and

joining Volkswagen has opened up many new opportunities for me. I was among a few who were selected to do a VW leadership development programme at the Business School of the University of Stellenbosch. That taught me a lot about not only taking charge but also on how to manage people.” Jean says while he no longer has the time to indulge as much as he would like in his favourite game of golf, he is an avid sports fan. “I love watching cricket and tennis and I am without a doubt a huge Storm-

ers supporter, but nowadays my hobbies have made way for my family. Three young children keep you on your toes,” he smiles. “There are big issues that need to be tackled in the Onrus/Vermont area,” he continues. “Much has been said about the state of the Onrus lagoon. It is my mission to assist in the Onrus beach achieving Blue Flag status. By definition that will mean that we will in cooperation with other role players ensure that the water quality in the lagoon improves. The building of a new pump station near Kidbrooke at a cost R5 million will assist in reaching this goal. All septic tanks within 200 metres of the Onrus river will also be checked for leaks. “I will also work closely with the community on ensuring that the area stays safe and that the rise of crime is adequately addressed. I urge residents to report all crimes, no matter how petty, to the SAPS and to join the neighbourhood watch.” Jean adds that he is committed to keeping communication channels between the Municipality and residents open.

The newly elected Ward Councillor Jean Orban and his wife, Lolla.

– De Waal Steyn

27 February - 5 March 2018

THE

NEWS

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

New mall makes life easier Piet van Zyl's lamentation on the Whale Coast Mall, The Killing of a Town (The Village NEWS, 30 January - 12 February) deserves a reply. Sir, acknowledge the fact that Hermanus is no longer a 'rustige vissersdorpie'. The fast growing population plus the influx of thousands of visitors during holidays and other special events, of which there are plentiful, have put enormous strain on the existing facilities and have made

parking and shopping in town a nightmare. I suggest that instead of coming to your warped conclusion of “no new facility or services” after a “quick walk” through the Mall and that it is “a duplication of existing facilities”, you should rather get your facts in line. Or maybe stronger glasses from the 'bigger and brighter' Optical shop will make more visible to Mr van Zyl why so many people are so

immensely delighted with this new development - The Whale Coast Mall. Thank you, developers, for making life so much easier by bringing together everything one needs under one roof. Even a brand-new Dischem! Mr van Zyl, I invite you for a cappuccino in The Daily Coffee – one of the brand-new restaurants and a newcomer to our town. Aunty Rip van Winkel

CANSA Relay for Life Honesty needs your support is not lost Cancer is not choosy where or when to strike, but CAN be addressed and overcome with early detection.

Relay for Life is one of CANSA’s yearly fundraising projects to raise awareness of cancer and fund research. The event honours cancer survivors and those we have lost to the disease are remembered. The caregivers who are involved with such compassion in the daily care and support of the cancer patients and their families are also thanked at this special occasion. Cancer CAN be beaten! Can you afford to not be involved? Sponsors and teams are needed to make a success of the 10th Relay for Life in the Overstrand, which will be taking place from 18:00 on 17 March to 06:00 on 18 March. Please contact Dorenn Prenton on 028 316 3678 or Miemsie Basson on 083 445 2684 for additional information, to become involved as a sponsor or to enrol your team. With appreciation, CANSA Relay for Life (Overstrand) Management

More control needed over water wastage I would like to suggest that in order to ensure that there is no wastage of water, residents should be discouraged from watering Municipal land outside their properties. I find it reprehensible that new owners actually lay lawns and make flower beds on land which does not belong to them. They may have wellpoints or boreholes but these can dry up. If you care to look at my house in Fernkloof Drive you will see I have removed all the grass and laid pebbles outside and have made a footpath so that pedestrians do not have to walk in the road.

I have also replaced 80% of my grass inside my land to save water. I have a borehole but for the first time this has run out of water and I have the misfortune to have to look at dead grass! I will never use municipal water in the garden. Climate change is here to stay and although Hermanus has had the foresight to ensure there is an adequate supply of water I consider it important that there should be more control over what people do outside their properties. Roger Summers

I recently went shopping at Fruit and Veg and left my wallet in my trolley. I had used my wallet at the ATM, put the money in my pocket and my wallet in my shopping bag. I did my shopping and at the pay point I emptied my bag and replaced it with goods bought, my wallet going in last. Going to the trolley bay my wallet must have fallen out into the trolley basket. I then went to Pick and Pay for my pensioners fish and chips. Wanting my smart card I emptied my shopping basket and searched for my wallet but could not find it! I had a haircut at the centre and while in the chair I backtracked my movements and realised my wallet must be at Fruit and Veg. After collecting the fish I returned to Fruit and Veg one hour later. What a relief it was to see that my wallet had been handed in! So to whoever you are, a very big thank you! Good to know there are still honest people out there. Ken Garrod

The 17th Benevolent Golf Day will take place at Hermanus Golf Club on 16 March. The event celebrates its 17th year of raising funds for Huis Lettie Theron, Hermanus Senior Centre, SOFCA and Hermanus Hospital – all institutions that focus on looking after and caring for the elderly in the Hermanus area. The festive team that is taking care of all the preparations for the big day are, in front: Simon Janse Van Vuuren, Ilze Peters-Cloete and Barbara Palmer. At the back are Lizel Kuchar, Jennie Vorster, Annarie Nel and Ilse Lourens. For more information on the Benevolent Golf Day, please contact Ilze on 082 414 8427. PHOTO: Kathy de Kock

Questions and suggestions for the Municipality With regard to the following pertinent matters I wish to request honest, factual answers from Overstrand Municipality (OM). The current water situation: Why not put further water restrictions in place instead of levies? And why not recruit water monitors to safeguard water usage and illegal collection of water in vulnerable areas? Current staff could be utilised. During the past holiday season the Traffic Department had staff whose sole purpose seemed to be to check licences of parked cars, resulting in many fines. These staff members could now be utilised as water monitors. I realise that the Traffic Department is a separate entity but surely in times of need, red tape could be overcome and anyone employed by OM in whatever capacity could work together for a common goal. The proposed Onrust/Vermont SRA: I have been communicating via email and phone with the SRA Steering Committee since August 2017 and similarly with OM since the beginning of September 2017. I attended a ward meeting in Onrust and an open meeting of OnVerWag Neighbourhood Watch. I have communicated with Ward Councillor Junita KloppersLourens, Ald Nicolette BothaGuthrie and Mr Abner Inghels, founder of OnVerWag and Chairperson of the SRA Steering Committee.

Despite all these communications I have yet to receive an honest, factual answer from either of the parties regarding my following concerns: I deem the process adopted so far to implement the proposed SRA flawed and undemocratic due to the fact that the initial communication was via an emailed survey which was not received by all Onrust/Vermont ratepayers. This does not comply with the public participation process required as no information was made available to Onrust/Vermont residents prior to the emailed survey. There is a lack of transparency from both parties and a “closed ranks” attitude between both parties. I requested a meeting with Mrs Reyneke-Naude and Mr Inghels to explain the current process, but to no avail. I was fobbed off with an evasive and confusing email from Mrs Reyneke-Naude dated 29 September 2017. The following is an extract from this email: “Concerning the survey questions, it is again important to note that the municipality cannot interfere or get involved in the survey, or in the process followed by the steering committee up to the submission of an application stage – an aspect the municipality will ultimately have to consider is whether the survey was done in a fair, and transparent manner, to the extent that it is both representative and constitutes the perception of the community.”

In the current atmosphere of demanding accountability and transparency from the ”Powers that Be “ (supported by Prof Roy du Pré’s letter to The Village NEWS, 30 Jan – 12 Feb) and the resumption of the Onrust/Vermont SRA process, I am hoping that both parties will be forthcoming and factual in their response to my concerns. Mr Inghels has stated in the media that the full results of the survey cannot be published until the Municipality gives the go-ahead. My questions to the Municipality are: If, as stated in Mrs Reyneke-Naude’s email above, the Municipality cannot interfere or get involved in the survey, then why do they have the authority as to when the results may be published? The survey contains information that should, in a democratic system, be public information. Secondly, why has a draft application already been submitted to OM and is currently awaiting approval without the required Public Participation Process having been followed prior to the submission? As the implementation of the OVSRA will require top-up levies from ratepayers I strongly feel that ratepayers have the right to be involved and informed regarding every step of the process. Surely the ratepayers have the right to know what the draft application contains and if not, why not? Linda Musson, Onrus

27 February - 5 March 2018

Yomelelani receives financial boost from Dutchies

he owners of Dutchies Restaurant, Joke Gonggrijp and her son Daan, hosted an unforgettable dinner under the Milkwood trees at Grotto Beach on Friday 16 February in aid of Yomelelani Crèche and Pre-School in Zwelihle. Adding to the magical ambience were the fairy lights hanging from the trees, the background music, and delicious food created by Dutchies’ chefs. The focus of the dinner was to raise awareness for Yomelelani, which accommodates 151 children from the ages of three months to five years, roughly 55% of whom are orphans. The evening took a special turn and tears were shed when the young choir from the school and then their teachers sang for the guests. Overall the evening was a huge success, with Joke handing over a cheque to Corny Rode, the principal at Yomelelani, for R20 000. Before it became Yomelelani, the site in Zwelihle was originally

used as a night shelter for the homeless called the Hou Moed Centre. It was run by Theo DeMeyer, a retired hospital administration director. By the year 2000 and after much hard work on the dilapidated buildings, the shelter evolved into a youth centre which provided after-school activities and a meal for the children who went there. In 2003, Yomelelani received permission from Theo to use Hou Moed’s facilities in the mornings and afternoons for their pre-school and care centre project. When Theo retired at the age of 80, the youth centre was taken over by a national charity but was handed back to the Municipality in 2014. Yomelelani was granted a lease by the Municipality for the site and the buildings on the condition that the crèche be opened to babies from 3 – 24 months. This age limit for the crèche was later extended to 36 months, with children between three and five years moving on to the

pre-school. That same year Yomelelani started the Swop Shop which was a project to help children in Zwelihle learn about recycling. The items that they bring in are weighed and they earn points which they can trade for a meal, toiletries, stationery or other items. The longest serving trustees from the Yomelelani Trust have been involved in the school for the last 15 years and come to Hermanus annually from England to visit the children and the teaching staff. Yomelelani has also received a lot of support from the Hermanus community, with a few local companies such as Aqunion contributing towards the school. Some of the money for the school is raised by the trustees overseas, but there is always a need for more donations and local volunteers. For more information on how to donate funds or how to volunteer visit yomelelani.co.za – Taylum Meyer

Learners from Yomelelani Crèche and PreSchool in Zwelihle and their teachers performed songs and danced for the guests at Dutchies’ event under the Milkwood trees at Grotto Beach. The Principal of Yomelelani, Corny Rode, was at a loss for words as she held the cheque for R20 000, handed over to her by Joke Gonggrijp, owner of Dutchies Restaurant at Grotto Beach. PHOTOS: Taylum Meyer, Titanium Photography

A road less traveled - at your own peril I was reminded recently that amateurs built the Ark and professionals built the Titanic, yet the final fate of these two vessels belies the skills of their creators. Granted, there were far less icebergs around Armenia at the time, but unlike the Titanic, no records exist of the Ark ever sinking. If the water hadn’t subsided, it would probably still be around today – maybe as a petting zoo or floating casino. Some seeds of ingenuity sown thousands of years ago still bear fruit today. Camels, for example, were originally designed with humps to store extra water, which gave Henry Ford the idea to put a petrol tank in a car. This revolutionised land travel, and horse-drawn carriages soon became obsolete, which we’ll get into later. But talking of land travel, some

Wit’s End Murray Stewart thevillagemuze@gmail.com

of you might not know the standard railroad gauge (distance between rails) and don’t give a fig. Anyway, it’s 4 feet 8 and-a-half inches or 1.45 metres, which is rather an odd number. So, why 1.45 metres? Well, that’s the way they laid tracks in England, and back then British colonialism was rampant and had spread its influence to many countries globally. But why did the British build them like that? It’s because the first rail tracks were laid by the same people who built the early tramways, and that’s the

gauge they used. This begs the question: why would the tramtrack layers use that particular gauge? Well, the tram people used the tried and tested tools and templates they already had for building wagons and carriages, which conformed to the spacing of the existing wheel ruts in the roads. Similar to a bakkie’s tyre tracks creating a middelmannetjie along farm roads, with the right gauge the carriage wheels would ‘stay in the groove’, so this became the standard wheel spacing. But who made those grooved

roads in the beginning? Imperial Rome built the first long-distance roads across the many countries they conquered. Supply wagons and war chariots created the initial furrows, so everyone had to ‘stay in the groove’ or keep replacing shattered wheels. But still you may wonder, why 1.45 meters? Now this is where it gets interesting. The humble horse – or part of one - influenced the final decision. Two horses, side by side were required to pull a war chariot, so for the first and only time in history can a horse’s ass be regarded as useful – apart from the logical spot to pin the tail. Using the standard width of the equine rump (around 70cm), plus some wiggle-room for

horse-play, they could determine the chariot width, the axel length and the spacing of the wheels. Fat or thin horses were eaten or boiled into glue to plug leaking aqueducts. But one can only admire the bloke with the unenviable job of recruiting horses by lurking surreptitiously around behind them to measure their bums. Anyway, that’s why train tracks are 1.45m apart. But here’s the twist in the rail tale. America, once a British colony itself, used the 1.45m guideline, which in retrospect could have proved catastrophic. The next time you see a space shuttle on TV, you’ll notice the huge rocket boosters attached to the side. The engineers who designed these boosters however, would have preferred

them to be somewhat bigger. Due to their size though, they could only be transported by rail from the factory in Utah to the launch site, and sadly the tracks ran through a tunnel in the mountains. Much to the consternation of the engineers, the intended boosters had to be pruned down to fit. Good thing this slight gamble wasn’t made public, but there were chewed fingernails and clenched buns aplenty during the launch. So, there you have it. The dimensions of a vital feature on the space shuttle - today’s most advanced transport system – were determined two thousand years ago by the width of a horse’s ass. All roads lead from Rome, apparently.

27 February - 5 March 2018

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Good Guide

Tuesday 27 February

■ Russian History: Overberg U3A presents a new series of four lectures on Russian History. The first lecture, presented by Dr Gustav Hendrich, is titled The October Revolution and the events that led to the murder of Czar Nicholas II. In the Catholic Church hall, at 10:00.

work of two pioneers – Prof Raymond Dart, the Australian-born paleontologist who in 1924 discovered the first fossil of Australopithecus africanus at Taung in the Northwest province of South Africa, and husband and wife team, Louis and Mary Leakey, who made similar revolutionary discoveries starting in 1931 in the now famous Olduvai Gorge in Tanzania. In the Catholic Church hall, at 10:00.

at R50 pp. Bring your own drinks and glasses. For more info or to book, contact Annelie Theron on 082 483 5632. At the Grobbelaar Hall in Marine Drive, at 19:00.

■ Cosmology: Join the Hermanus Astronomy Centre for a presentation on The Higgs Boson and Beyond by Prof Sean Carroll of the California Institute of Technology. For more information, contact Pierre Hugo at pierre@hermanus.co.za. In the Catholic Church hall, at 19:00.

Tuesday 6 March ■ Russian History: The second lecture in U3A Overberg’s series on Russian History is titled Stalin and Stalinism, presented by Prof Irina Filatova. In the Catholic Church hall, at 10:00.

Wednesday 7 March

Sunday 4 March

Wednesday 28 February ■ Hermanus Garden Club: The club’s AGM will include a video presentation on Mini Gardens, a scrumptious tea and a plant sale. Subscription fee is due at R70 p/a. For further details contact Sue on 028 314 0072. At the Catholic Church hall, at 09:30.

Thursday 1 March ■ Rotary Club of Hermanus: Visitors are welcome to join in Rotary’s weekly meetings. Contact Ian Wallace on 082 895 8738 or Metcalf Fick on 082 568 2193. Every Thursday at 19:00, at Mollergren Park.

Friday 2 March ■ Hermanus Hacking Group: All volunteers are welcome to join in the clearing of invasive vegetation. Contact Charlyn Vosloo on 082 558 8731. Meet every Friday at the green reservoir off Mountain Drive, at 07:15 for 07:30. ■ Bhuki Café: Join the Friends of Hermanus Library for tea, coffee and eats for only R30 and help to raise funds for the library. Every Friday from 09:00 – 11:30, at Hermanus Library. ■ Kolwyntjie Teetuin: Everyone in the area is welcome to enjoy a sweet treat and tea or coffee at a nominal fee, and make new friends at the Onrus Care Centre (Dienssentrum). At the Onrus Dutch Reformed Church, every Friday between 09:30 and 11:30.

■ Friday is Braai Day: Come and meet the Ultimate Braai Master contestants of Guyall's Kitchen at Hermanuspietersfontein Wines. Bring yourself, the love of your life, the kids, skoonma, your neighbours… and even the dogs! No need to bring the braai tong along – Guy and Lyall have the braai covered. Wine and beer available. For food purchases, cash or Snapscan only. At Hermanuspietersfontein in The Village, from 14:00 – 20:00. ■ Hermanus Primary School Carnival: With fantastic stalls, tasty food, music and a mega playground, the Carnival is where the fun is at! Bring the whole family. R10 entry fee includes a free Coke and lucky draw for a bicycle. At Hermanus Primary School, from 15:00 – 21:00.

Saturday 3 March ■ Hermanus parkrun: Meet for the weekly 5 km walk or run, come rain or shine. The route is dog friendly and children are most welcome. Set off from the Hermanus Forest on Camphill Road in Hemel-en-Aarde Valley, at 08:00. ■ Hermanus Country Market: A favourite among the locals, old and young. Four-legged family members are also welcome. You’ll find wholesome goodies, home-made crafts, local produce, beers and wine, speciality foods, coffee and live music. Next to the cricket field, Fairways Avenue, from 09:00 – 13:00.

■ Arabesque Pop-up Kitchen: Join Goozi for an interactive cooking demo of Magnificent Mezze by Eunice Rademeyer. The cost is R100 pp and seats are limited, so make sure you book early for this popular event. Contact Meagan on 028 312 4979. At Goozi Kitchenshop in Mitchell Street, at 10:00. ■ Human Evolution: Overberg U3A presents a new series of four lectures on Human Evolution. The first is entitled Robert Broom and the Missing Link – Part 1, presented by Gert Claassen. Part 2 will follow on 9 March. These first two lectures will focus on the

■ Hermanuspietersfontein Food & Wine Market: 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”. In the courtyard of Hermanuspietersfontein wine cellar at The Village, from 09:00 – 13:00. ■ Market in the Garden: Hunt for treasures at this peaceful market set among the shady trees of a beautiful garden. At St Peter’s Church in Main Road, Hermanus, from 09:00 – 13:00. ■ Langarm dans: Anyone who loves to dance langarm, young or old, is welcome to join in the fun

■ Lemm’s Corner Market: This popular Sunday market offers exclusive fine arts and crafts, locally manufactured clothing, accessories, home décor, skincare and body products, as well as speciality foods, coffee, cakes, craft beers, a wine bar and live music. On the corner of Main & Harbour Roads, from 10:00 – 15:00.

■ South Hill Supper & Movie Night: Join South Hill in the Elgin Wine Valley on the first Wednesday of the month for sunset drinks from 18:00, main course supper at 19:00, and movie screening at 20:00. This month’s movie is the highly acclaimed Lion. The cost is R135 pp and midweek stayover packages are also available. Contact events@southhill.co.za or call 021 844 0888 / 083 627 7950 to book. At South Hill Estate, from 18:00.

Thursday 8 March ■ South Africa – The Road Ahead: The guest speaker at U3A Overberg’s AGM is internationally respected political commentator Dr R W Johnson, who will provide an update on his controversial book, How Long Can South Africa Survive? Published in 2015 it is an uncannily accurate scenario of how things have gone to date. Members of the public are cordially invited to attend and there is no cost involved. In the Sandbaai Hall, at 17.30. ■ Auner String Quartet: OAK (Overstrand Arts/Kunste) presents the highly acclaimed Viennese string quartet which has performed around the world. Consisting of two violins, a viola and one cello, the Auner Quartet will be an event that classical music lovers won’t want to miss. Adults R140 and students R60. Book now at the Hermanus Tourism Bureau or call 028 312 2629. For enquiries, contact secretary René du Plooy on 082 940 4238. At the Municipal Auditorium, at 15:30.

Friday 9 March ■ Human Evolution: Overberg U3A presents Robert Broom and the Missing Link – Part 2 by Gert Claassen. In the Catholic Church hall, at 10:00.

Friday 9 – Saturday 10 March

Monday 5 March ■ History of Scotland: Episode 10 of Overberg U3A’s course on the History of Scotland is entitled Project Scotland: industrialisation and home rule, presented by Dr Robin Lee. In the Catholic Church hall, at 10:00. ■ Classic Bridge Club: The club gets together weekly for Duplicate Bridge. To join, contact Riekie on 072 230 9179. At Fernkloof Hall, every Monday at 13:00. ■ Hermanus History Society: Academic historian, Dr Elizabeth van Heyningen will be the special guest speaker at this month’s HHS meeting. She’ll speak about The Selected Letters of President M T Steyn – A Tale of Courage and Obstinacy. Visitors welcome at R20 pp. At the Catholic Church hall, at 16:00 (refreshments will be served from 15:30).

■ Flight for Birders: BirdLife Overberg will present their popular Bird Identification & Conservation Course over two days. Illustrated with more than 1 600 slides and drawings, the course is designed to assist novices and experienced birdwatchers to become involved in bird-watching in a practical and sustainable way. Emphasis will be placed on the further development of the Overberg region as a top birding destination. Important conservation issues will be discussed and details will be given on how ordinary birders could become involved in conservation actions. The cost of R550 pp includes a practical outing, basic notes and certificates endorsed by BirdLife South Africa. To register contact Elaine at 082 455 8402 or mwjasser@mweb.co.za. At the Environmental Education Centre, Fernkloof Nature Reserve, starting at 09:00 on both days.

Village

EXPLORER EXPLORER The

WINE • ART • FOOD • BOOKS

Beaumont poised for a new chapter in the family business, Sebastian’s wife Nici is involved with all things strategic and culinary, including Beaumont’s famous farm luncheons, picnics, events and entertainment. The youngest Beaumont sibling, Lucien, is an experienced game ranger who heads up the business of Beaumont Adventures, while his wife Nadia took over the marketing and sales side of the wine business from Lucien’s sister Ariane.

Hedda Mittner

eaumont Family Wines celebrated the opening of their new tasting room last week with their trademark brand of country hospitality. Decked out in Hawaiian garb and sporting Tom Selleck-style moustaches, guests kicked back and partied until late. The Magnum PIthemed celebrations also entailed delicious snacks and magnums of Beaumont’s highly acclaimed wines. This family owned and managed farm situated in the heart of the town of Bot River is home to the region’s oldest wine cellar, originally established in the 1700s by the Dutch East India Company. Named Compagnes Drift, the outpost was a self-sustaining farm that supplied the garrison of soldiers and travellers to the interior with fresh produce. By the time Jayne and Raoul Beaumont bought the farm in 1974, however, it had for many decades fallen into disrepair and its restoration was a labour of love that has been passed on to the next generation. In the early years, they set about planting fruit trees and replanting the vineyards. While Raoul concentrated on the management of the farm, Jayne revitalised the old cellar and started making small quantities of Pinotage, Chardonnay and Port, with the varietals named after each of the three Beaumont children – the eldest, Sebastian, his sister Ariane, and laatlammetjie Lucien. Sebastian, whose passions include fishing and surfing, honed his skills in the vineyards on the farm, working alongside Raoul. After studying viticulture and oenology he joined the family business in 1999, initially as viticulturist and assistant winemaker under the guidance of Jayne and winemaker Niels Verburg. Five years later, in 2004, he completed his first

Sebastian Beaumont’s passions include surfing, fishing and winemaking. vintage, was in charge of the winemaking and soon established a standing as a Chenin Blanc aficionado. After receiving four 5 star ratings for their wooded Chenin Blanc named after his grandmother, Hope Marguerite, he earned the nickname, "The Chenin Dude". Sebastian’s approach to winemaking is instinctive. He believes that wine is made in the vineyards and that minimal intervention is needed, allowing the wines to be a true reflection of the land and vineyards. He has a hands-on approach to winemaking, using old-cellar techniques like natural yeasts and old open concrete fermenters (kuipe). While embracing the old, his non-conformist approach also creatively uses modern winemaking techniques to produce limited quantities of specialised, characterful and authentic wines that bear the crest of the Beaumont family. The members of the Beaumont clan, which now includes six grandchildren, live and work side by side, each fulfilling a unique role and combining their talents into a harmonious whole. As the cofounder of Zest Catering and partner

The farm is a place of simplicity and charm, offering quintessential Overberg architecture with whitewashed barns and homesteads – and now, the new tasting room adjacent to the historic barrel cellar. The idea behind the build, which started in August last year, was to bring guests back into the cellar so they can feel a part of the winemaking process. There are also two original buildings that have been beautifully restored as quaint self-catering cottages and the farm is home to one of the oldest working watermills in the country. After generations of farming and partnering with nature, the Beaumont land now offers some of the finest vineyards in the area. The farm also grows pears, almonds and olives surrounded by fynbos and abundant birdlife. Overlooking the original cellar and homestead is a sloping wheat field, which is harvested ceremoniously in the annual Field to Loaf festivities. The grains are then milled on the farm, producing sought-after stoneground flour. Other special events hosted on the farm include the annual Beaumont Port Stomp which will take place on Friday, 16 March and entails an evening of dancing on the grapes, with live music and plenty of delicious wine and food. Another favourite, their legendary Barrel Cellar Lunches, will kick off again on a monthly basis in May.

Beaumont Family Wines recently celebrated the opening of their new tasting room with a Magnum PI-themed party.

The Tasting Room is open from Monday to Friday, 10:00 – 16:30, and on Saturday from 10:00 – 15:00. Visitors can enjoy farm-style platters with cured meats, local cheeses and home-made spreads or pre-order a picnic basket. For more information, contact 028 284 9194 or info@beaumont.co.za, or visit www.beaumont.co.za

HFF WINNER: The winner of the lucky draw from the last Hermanus First Fridays (HFF) Artwalk on 2 February was local artist Louise Hennigs. The painting was donated by Petrus Viljoen (right) of Art Thirst and the winning ticket was bought from Lembu Gallery. Because Louise is still immobile after a recent knee operation, Ed Bredenkamp (left) from Lembu accepted the painting from Petrus on her behalf. The next Artwalk will be on Friday 2 March.

27 February - 5 March 2018

Celebrate Mother Earth at Sumaridge

he tasting room of Sumaridge Wine Estate in Upper Hemel-en-Aarde Valley will provide the perfect setting for a solo exhibition of works by Aviva Maree entitled Art de Vivre. The exhibition will open with a private viewing on Saturday 3 March from 18:00 to 20:30 and run until the end of May. Aviva Maree is a South African artist, creating timeless studies of the everyday life of working women in oil colours. She applies her talent and intimate knowledge of rural life to capture the true spirit and heart of the Cape region and parts of Limpopo Province, where she has lived. Since 2000 she is based in Knysna. Harmonious compositions, bold brush work and refreshing use of colour make Aviva’s paintings eye-catching and evocative. Central to her work is the female figure, and the inner strength with which South African women work with pride and contentment to survive and provide for their children. Her inspiring paintings often bring back memories such as the smell of flowers and salty sea on the hands and clothes of her figures. The scenes she depicts are full of empathy, at times beautifully poignant, yet always filled with hope. Aviva Maree is represented by selected art galleries in South Africa and has had 10 successful solo exhibitions over the past decade. Art de Vivre embraces the close connection between women and the fruits of nature, emphasising the simplicity of her subjects’ lives, firmly rooted in the earth. With her paintings, Aviva strives to stay true to the meaning and simplicity of her name, which means ‘Spring’.

Those who wish to attend the opening of Art de Vivre at Sumaridge on 3 March can contact lorraine@sumaridge.co.za

27 February - 5 March 2018

Be ENCHANTED by Andrew Barlow

collection of works by Andrew Barlow, entitled ‘Enchanted’ will be exhibited at Rossouw Modern’s SPACE Gallery from 10 March until the end of the month. In this latest body of work Barlow creates large-scale drawings which provoke the viewer into entering a world of curiosity and possibility. Not everything in the world is predictable and the scenarios created in these works hint at a life that can be peculiar. The boundary between dreams and

reality is often blurred and, while Barlow’s beautifully crafted drawings ask to be taken seriously as works of fine art, they are also able to engage in light-hearted and quirky humour. He attempts to reach beyond the pathos of everyday life and offer hope in the form of triumphant figures who toil to overcome daunting obstacles, or simply survive the mundaneness of daily life. The reference back to vintage

photography and classical drawing pays homage to a time when traditional artistic qualities had a place in art and culture. These drawings provide the viewer with some of those qualities – beauty, craftsmanship and authenticity. Being simple in design these drawings do not require overthinking and analyses to enjoy and appreciate. The intended effect the artist wishes to achieve is one of surprise and hopefully, with a little bit of

luck, enchantment. Andrew Barlow was born in Zimbabwe in 1970. Since graduating with a Fine Arts degree from the University of Stellenbosch in 1992, he has specialised in people and animal portraits in oil and charcoal. Among his body of work are illustrations for the book, Roberts’ Birds of Southern Africa, several portraits of champion racehorses and stallions, and commissions of

polo ponies, polo strings and polo teams in South Africa, England and America. Andrew has participated in several group shows during his career. Since 2015 he has focused his talent in drawing and painting on the emotional state of the subject, enticing the viewer to experience or share a certain feeling, rather than question who the person in the portrait is. This emotional dimension of his art and the unique style in

which he works have proven to be a perfect union. Andrew believes in being as close to the process as possible, and makes his own charcoal from willow branches. He currently lives in Somerset West with his family. ‘Enchanted’ opens on Saturday, 10 March at 13:00 and will run until 31 March. If you’d like to attend the opening, send an email to art@rossouwmodern.com

Painting & Sipping for a good cause Local artist Maureen Tomaino hosted another successful Paint & Sip evening last week at the Sandbaai Hall, in aid of the SOFCA Frail Care Centre. The event was sold out and more than a hundred enthusiastic artists, both amateur and professional, participated.

Maureen says because most of us stop painting at around 12 years, that is the average ‘art age’ of adults. As a result, most of us feel intimidated when suddenly asked to put brush to canvas. But Maureen is determined to change all that with her Paint & Sip events. “With a little guidance and encouragement, and given the opportunity, we can all express ourselves through art.”

The theme for the evening was ‘Bohemian Rhapsody’ and guests were invited to dress up for the occasion. Everyone was given art supplies and, in between refreshments that included wine and a light meal, each participant set about creating their interpretation of the theme, ‘Tree of Life’.

And when Maureen says “yes, you can do it”, you’d better believe it – she has been teaching painting and conducting workshops for over 30 years.

There was much laughter and chattering as strangers became friends and not long into the night there was even some dancing. The completed artworks were done in various styles and each bore the individual stamp of its creator.

At the end of the evening guests were able to take their paintings home as a momento of a most enjoyable and inspiring evening; looking forward, no doubt, to Maureen’s next Paint & Sip event. – Taylum Meyer

From left are Gayle Smith (SOFCA), artist Maureen Tomaino and Jennie Vorster (SOFCA). PHOTOS: Taylum Meyer

Trudie le Roux painting her version of the Tree of Life.

THE OTHER SIDE OF WINTER Acclaimed local artist Jaco Sieberhagen from Onrus will be exhibiting a collection of 12 sculptures at the Tokara Wine Estate near Stellenbosch, opening on 3 March. Entitled ‘The other side of winter’, this solo exhibition is, in Jaco’s words, “a celebration of the human spirit, which has the incredible ability to imagine spring while winter grey is still ruling the landscape, to dance with the rising sun while facing an uncertain day, and to fly while circumstances invite him to stop believing”. The works will be exhibited outside in the IS Sculpture Garden at the Tokara Deli on the estate, with each sculpture accompanied by a poem. To attend the opening on Saturday 3 March, contact Alisha on 021 876 2071.

27 February - 5 March 2018

Restaurants add to charm of Hermanus Old Town

ith the recent establishment of the Hermanus Old Town (HOT) initiative, the need to revitalise the CBD of Hermanus has again come under the spotlight. Chaired by Hamish Hofmeyr under the auspices of the Hermanus Business Chamber, HOT is supported by several business owners who share the mission of preserving our old town, its character and its charm. One of the main attraction of Hermanus Old Town has always been its restaurants and coffee shops, especially those that are housed in heritage buildings. These include the original Godfrey Cottages at Village Square, now home to Paradiso, Belgian Waffles and Pear Tree; and the historic cottages of Burgundy, Tapas, Fisherman’s Cottage and Café 1904 at Fisherman’s Village in the heart of the Old Town. The owners of these establishments are all fulfilling an invaluable role, not only in luring visitors to their tables but also in acting as ambassadors for Hermanus by engaging with patrons, sharing information, and advising them on where to go and what to do. They all have

What’s Cooking RESTAURANT NEWS Hedda Mittner wonderful stories to tell – and none more so than Burgundy. Mystery and romance surrounds the original buildings of Burgundy Restaurant, which consisted of two traditional fisherman’s cottages. They were built around 1875 in the vernacular style of stone and mud, lime plastered and white washed with thatch roofs, by a Swedish boat builder called John Louis. The first one was situated on what is now Harbour Road, and the second at right angles to it, facing the sea. John Louis later became known as Sweed Wessels when he adopted the surname of his sweetheart, Martha Wessels. Theirs was a great love story: Martha’s husband apparently disappeared without a trace and his death could not be confirmed, which meant that she and her Swedish lover could not marry. But they lived

happily side by side – she and her daughters in the one house and Sweed in the other. The couple could certainly never have foreseen that these two modest dwellings built on a rocky outcrop above the harbour of a small fishing village would not only still be there more than 140 years later, but would become a famous tourist attraction and national monument. A Miss Ethel Rubery from England, who was well known for her charity work in the Hermanus community, bought the cottage and turned it into a restaurant in 1928, naming it after the cypress tree that Sweed had planted in the front garden. The Cypress Tea Garden became a Hermanus landmark for decades, before Tim Hamilton Russell converted it into the area’s first winetasting venue. This pioneer of

the Hemel-en-Aarde Wine Valley had the site declared a national monu-ment in 1980, primarily because he feared it could be destroyed by property developers, as happened to so many other buildings. In 1983 it became part of the Old Harbour Museum when the trustees bought the historic area above the Old Harbour known as Fisherman’s Village. Today Burgundy Restaurant, as it has been known since 1987, is the oldest surviving

structure in Hermanus and still retains some of its original floors and windows. Under the expert hand of Chef Rudolf van der Berg and his team, Burgundy has never been more popular. Not only are they proud to be a part of the living history of Hermanus; they are keepers of the high culinary standards that ensure both locals and patrons from all over the world keep flocking to this very special restaurant.

In the next edition of What’s Cooking we’ll be looking at other restaurants that are housed in heritage buildings in the Old Town of Hermanus. With The Village NEWS now being published weekly, we’ll have two What’s Cooking columns per month, instead of just one. Look out for it in our 13 March and 27 March issues.

27 February - 5 March 2018

BOOKS

27 February - 5 March 2018

FROM PAGE TO SCREEN

Hemingway at Cinema Café When it comes to either good food, wine, a book or a movie there is little doubt that all four are synonymous with pleasure and an ambrosial seduction of the senses. Franz Kafka, the Jewish novelist wrote: But we need books that affect us like a disaster, that grieve us deeply, like the death of someone we loved more than ourselves, like being banished into forests far from everyone, like a suicide. A book must be the axe for the frozen sea within us. That is my belief. Fugitive Pieces is one such book. Anne Michaels’ bestselling debut novel exploring the universal themes of love, loss and alienation weaves lyrical words into an epic landscape that moves from the Nazi devastation of Poland to occupied Greece and after the war on to Canada. This internationally acclaimed novel published in 1996 went on to win many awards. Today Michaels is a prolific poet, playwright and novelist, and currently the poet laureate of Canada. Her first volume of non-fiction, Infinite Gradation, published in 2017, reflects on language and the creative act.

Fellow-Canadian Jeremy Podeswa’s adaptation of Fugitive Pieces to the screen opened at the 2007 Toronto International Film Festival. In his words: Fugitive Pieces was very challenging to direct - we had thirty-eight days to tell a very complex story in a beautiful and unconventional way. But the possibility of making something fresh, new and vital was always there. The movie has won awards in the categories: Best Cinematographer, Best Director and Best Screenplay. Fugitive Pieces resonates deeply on an emotional level and engages us with what is at once personal and universal. As producer, Robert Lantos concludes: The story cuts through cultural divides, in which the most noble of human instincts overcomes all the horrors around it. Haunting and memorable, Fugitive Pieces bears testimony to the healing power of love and coming home to oneself. – Beth Hunt Find Hemingways in Harbour Road, tel 028 312 2739. Visit Cinema Café at the Station Centre, call 084 849 9897 or book your movie at www.cinemacafe.co.za

Hemingways Bookshop est. 1995

BOOKS

27 February - 5 March 2018

What’s new in review

The village bookshop with a city selection

presented by

Exuberant, high-speed novel explores Australian history

eter Carey’s 14th novel, A Long Way from Home, has been hailed by critics as his best in decades. It tells the story of an adventurous car race across Australia in the 1950s – the annual Redex Reliability Trial which saw drivers and their navigators covering 10 000 miles across the continent’s brutal landscape in 17 days – which becomes a vehicle for examining Australia’s shameful history of racial atrocities against its indigenous people. Irene Bobs loves fast driving and her husband Titch is the best car salesman in rural South-eastern Australia. Together with their two children, they decide to embark on the Redex Trial with their Holden as a publicity stunt for the new car dealership they want to open in the small town of Bacchus Marsh in Victoria. They convince Willie Bachbuber, a young school teacher who has a talent for reading maps – something the otherwise capable and most resourceful

Penguin Random House

schoolboy by dangling him out of the schoolroom window. The novel is alternatively narrated in the first person by these two idiosyncratic characters as the various plot lines and colourful minor characters are woven together in a funny, whimsical and evocative tale that is reminiscent of Carey’s previous novels, Oscar and Lucinda, Illywhacker and True History of the Kelly Gang, which also won the Booker Prize for Fiction in 2001.

Irene is hopeless at – to join them as navigator. As the Holden races along on its hair-raising journey, a growing attraction develops between the plucky Irene, who has been a loyal and generous wife to Titch, and Willie, the gentle, melancholy and bookish son of a Lutheran pastor who lost his teaching job for punishing a racist

At the heart of A Long Way from Home, however, is Willie’s inward journey as he uncovers both the secrets of his own past and the horrifying injustices suffered by Australia’s indigenous population. Towards the end of the novel, the upbeat atmosphere darkens as the reader is taken to an altogether different place. – Hedda Mittner

Globalisation under the spotlight The Friends of FynArts were in for a rare treat last week when Prof Ian Goldin visited Hermanus to talk about his latest book, Age of Discovery – Navigating the Risks and Rewards of Our New Renaissance. This exclusive event for the Friends of FynArts took place at the Windsor Hotel, with author Christopher Hope leading the conversation with the South African-born Goldin, now Professor of Globalisation and Development at Oxford University, and founding director of the Oxford Martin School. In Age of Discovery, Goldin and co-author Chris Kutarna, a Fellow of the Oxford Martin School, examine why it is that, despite living in the best moment in history to be alive, with human health, aggregate wealth and education flourishing, we have never felt more anxious or divided. As we grapple with the dark side of rapid technological change – inequality, social division, political extremism, fear and insecurity –

Goldin points out that this is not the first time that globalisation has unleashed populist anger and protest. We’ve been here before, during the first Renaissance, and now is the time to gain courage and wisdom from the past. There are many lessons we can draw from the first age of globalisation five centuries ago, known as the Age of Discovery, when the likes of Gutenberg, da Vinci, Michelangelo, Copernicus, and Columbus reshaped the world. During his impressive career Goldin has held various positions, including as chief executive and managing director of the Development Bank of Southern Africa (also serving as an advisor to President Nelson Mandela), and as director of development policy and then vice president of the World Bank. Ian Goldin has written more than 20 books. Copies of Age of Discovery are now available at The Book Cottage in Long Street, Hermanus. – Hedda Mittner

Coming-of-age tale set in African landscape

nce upon a time… a little girl called Lesley lived in a far Northern country. And Lesley loved to read. The words she read told exciting stories, and there were plenty of those floating around in the mists of her home country, Scotland: brave heroes defending their land, queens locked up in castles, a handsome prince escaping his enemies, and best of all, a monster lurking in the deep waters of a lake. So Lesley gobbled up all the words, until she was ready to…

land, only my accent betrays those roots,” she laughs. “I have lived and travelled in various parts of the continent of Africa for over 50 years, and enjoyed every one of them. These are the landscapes and loves that inform my stories and my memories.” Fortunately, children all over the world are now able to enjoy them. Her books have been translated into many different languages, African, European, Scandinavian and Asian.

generously given. She is also extremely grateful to Chris Venter whose cover design she believes hit the mark exactly (in fact, she even added a sentence or two to the text to fit in with the illustration!); likewise, Nicola Rijsdijk, whose editing did so much to enhance the quality of the book. “Having done a lot of editing myself,” she comments, “I know how important this work is and how little acknowledgement editors receive.”

BURST! Which, eventually, she did… In the late 1980s, all those words started tumbling out of her head into a story of her own for the young people of South Africa, where she had come to live. It was called Strollers and it is now in its 31st edition. Eighty-eight books later, Lesley Beake, who has settled in Stanford, won the 2017 Sanlam Gold Prize for Youth Literature for her latest book, Hap. This is merely the latest in a string of awards, both local and international, but one she especially values.

Lesley’s interest in archaeology and the earliest people to inhabit this country underpin the story of Hap. It tells the tale of the miraculous find by a troubled American teenager visiting her archaeologist father at a dig on the West Coast of South Africa, and how it helps to heal her troubled heart. She is able to identify with the 70 000-year-old fossil of the young girl she discovers and names Hap. Through her, she connects to ancient values and ways of living and gains a new perspective on her own life.

Although this weaver of words has written many story books for young children, she prefers the more challenging process of writing for teenagers. “It takes much longer, though,” she laments. “Hap took about 10 years, all in all, from the time I started my research, to the day it was published.”

Trained as a primary school teacher at Rhodes University, her books are all set in Africa, a continent rich in the culture of story-telling. “Although I was born and schooled in Scot-

A huge amount of research went into writing this book and Lesley pays tribute to the support she received from archaeologist friends whose advice and knowledge were

Even after 88 books, Lesley clearly has no intention of retiring; instead, as in all good children’s stories, she is living happily ever after in the midst of the supportive community of Stanford, where she enjoys taking her dog, Milly, for long, relaxing walks along the river. – Elaine Davie

Author Lesley Beake relaxing at her home in Stanford with her dog, Milly.

27 February - 5 March 2018 lunch and snacks. Tented accommodation, including dinner and breakfast, is available at an additional R420. Bring a hat, walking shoes, binoculars, sunscreen, reading glasses and pen or pencil. At Platbos Indigenous Forest, from 09:30 – 17:00 on both days.

Every Saturday

Good Guide ■ Saturday Morning Market: Come and feast your eyes on Stanford’s veritable delectables, from home-made cakes and pastries to pies and rusks, an array of homemade sheep and goat milk cheeses and wood-fired ciabattas, to farm vegetables, flowers and herbs, artisanal sausages and meats, pickles, jams, preserves and sauces, and fabulous home-spun, fynbos-dyed wools. For more information, contact Caro on 082 448 0237. On the Stanford Hotel Stoep, from 09:00 – 12:00.

Every Saturday until end of March

Thursday 1 March ■ Stanford Full Moon Walk: Join us for the second month of blue moons in Stanford as we walk along our tranquil Wandelpad. R30 for adults, R10 for kids, and dogs free. All are welcome. A complimentary refreshment will be served at the end. Weather dependent so please call 028 341 0340 to confirm. Meet at Stanford Tourism Courtyard, at 17:30.

Wednesday 7 March ■ Coffee Corner WWW: It’s Wine & Wisdom Wednesday (WWW) at Coffee Corner, with an entrance fee of R50 pp in aid of community projects. Choose between three delicious meals at just R75 each. There is no corkage for those wanting to bring their own wine. Limited to 40 people, so book early! Contact Bob at bobbroom@omail.co.za or 028 341 0297. Everyone welcome. At Coffee Corner, at 19:00.

Weekend starts on the Friday evening, when participants will pitch their tents and relax into a chilled night of gentle tunes under the ancient indigenous forest canopy. Enjoy delicious food and meet new friends around the campfire. The Saturday will be an action-packed day of treeplanting and getting your hands dirty; you will help to restore an ecosystem that is one of the rarest and most endangered in the Western Cape. After planting thousands of trees in your teams, you’ll return to camp for a good shower, a talent show and forest party for the whole family to celebrate your achievement. Sunday is a day to relax your body and stimulate your mind with fun, educational activities and workshops including guided forest walks, yoga, informative talks, arts and crafts and puppet shows. At Platbos Indigenous Forest. Get more details and purchase your tickets at www.reforestfest.com

Saturday 17 March

Saturday 10 March, 12:00 - 15:00 ■ Panthera Africa: Enjoy the big cat sanctuary’s Saturday Sunset Visits before the end of summer, at that magical time when the cats come alive after a long day of rest. Only for people 16 years and older. Pre-booking is essential as only 20 places are available for this enchanting experience. The duration is 2 hours and the cost is R490 pp. Contact 071 182 8368 or info@pantheraafrica.com. At Panthera Africa, from 18:00 – 20:00.

Wednesday 28 February ■ Shipwreck Sunset Walk: Join Gansbaai Tourism in raising funds for the I&J Pikkewyntjie Pre-School in Blompark by taking part in a sunset walk to the Strandveld Museum where you’ll hear the story of the tragic sinking of the Teuton. Refreshments will be served; bring your own glass or cup. Tickets at R50 pp available from the Gansbaai Tourism office. Meet at Wet Feet at Blousloep at 17:15.

■ Lomond Harvest Festival: Join Lomond Wine Estate for their family-friendly harvest festival, with premium wines and delicious local fare. Platters can be booked beforehand as limited quantities will be available. For more information, contact 082 908 0099 or tastingroom@lomond.co.za. At Lomond, from 15:00 – 19:30 on the Friday, and from 10:00 – 16:00 on the Saturday.

Friday 23 – Sunday 25 March

■ Reforest Fest Friends Weekend: A celebration of music, heart and soil! The programme wil be similar to that of the Family Weekend, with great music from Touchwood, Chico Muya, Money for Bali, Nevau and more. At Platbos Indigenous Forest. Get more details and purchase your tickets at www.reforestfest.com

Friday 30 March ■ Stanford Sunset Market: Our favourite evening market, with food, wine, beer, arts & crafts, live music and friendships - there is nowhere better to be on the last Friday of the month. At Stanford Market Square, from 18:00 – 20:00.

■ Sushi Saturday: Bring friends and family and enjoy a lovely laid-back Saturday afternoon overlooking the pond and vineyards while indulging in freshly made Sushi, Gin and Wine. Booking essential on 028 341 0647 / 082 405 1280. At The Zesty Lemon on Sir Robert Stanford Estate, from 12:00 – 15:30.

■ Stanford River Festival: The Canoe Club of Stanford, with the support of the Grootbos Foundation and the Development Canoe Club, Rock the Boat, brings you a fun day for the whole family. From guppies, K1s, K2s, Indians and SUPs, you are sure to find a category to suit you. Races from 2 km to 15 km for all abilities and ages. Registration available at the riverfront. Life jacket essential. Food stalls, music and beer tent. Catch all the action at the riverfront at the bottom of Quick Street, from 09:00.

Friday 16 – Sunday 18 March

Tuesday 20 - Wednesday 21 March

Every Wednesday ■ Graze Farmers Market: Reduce your carbon footprint by filling your basket with fresh, seasonal veggies. Stay for coffee and breakfast. Contact Tabby and Alex on 076 243 1930. At Graze Slow Food Café, from 09:00 – 12:00.

Friday 23 – Saturday 24 March

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

■ Know your Trees: Tree expert and co-author of Trees of Southern Africa, Meg Coates Palgrave, will be offering a two-day course on indigenous trees. Megan developed a code on tree identification and on the course she will show people how to read those labels and be able to identify indigenous trees in the field. The cost of R1 400 pp includes the course, Tree-ID book,

To advertise in The Village NEWS, contact Rina de Wet on

083 604 0808

Saturday 31 March ■ Stanford Junktique: Come and browse to your heart's content, and breathe new life into previously loved items! For more information, call 028 341 340 or email book@stanfordinfo.co.za. In the Tourism Courtyard, Queen Victoria Street, from 09:00. ■ Kids Mural Art: Children are invited to paint a square and leave their artistic imprint. While parents browse at the Junktique Market, the young ones can get arty and help complete the mural behind the tourism office. Local artist Marian Binder Williams will oversee the creativity session. R20 per child. All materials will be provided. Wear an old Tshirt and bring a sunhat. Young children should be accompanied by a parent. For more information, or to enquire about a stand, call 028 341 0340 or email ask@stanfordinfo.co.za. In the Tourism Courtyard, Queen Victoria Street, from 09:00 – 12:00.

27 February - 5 march 2018

PSG Wealth Hermanus Portfolio Management and Stockbroking 028 312 1508 10 Magnolia Street www.psg.co.za/hermanusstockbrokers

Determine your risk profile to get the biscuit Knowing your personal risk profile is vital. It determines the role that risk will play in your investment strategy. Investors continue to be buffeted by market uncertainties. An appropriate, disciplined and strategic investment strategy has therefore become imperative. JANA FOURIE, of PSG Wealth Hermanus, looks at what risk is. 1. What is investment risk? Simply put, “investment risk” refers to the degree of volatility in investment returns to which an investor is prepared to subject their portfolio. At stake is the probability that an investment’s actual return (growth and/or income return) will differ from the expected return. The higher this probability, the higher the uncertainty of achieving your desired returns. Should volatility trend significantly to the downside, the risk of the permanent loss of capital becomes real. All investment products are exposed to risk, but the degree of risk differs. Property and shares, also known as ‘growth assets’, are inherently riskier than interest bearing instruments which are often referred to as ‘defensive assets’. It is therefore important to determine both your risk tolerance and appetite before making an investment decision. Risk appetite and risk tolerance are often used interchangeably,

but mistakenly so. Risk appetite refers to an investor’s willingness to take on risk. Risk tolerance refers to an investor’s ability to take on risk. You might have the courage to run the Comrades marathon, but you might not be physically able to do so. 2. When determining your risk profile, what factors do you need to consider? An investor’s risk profile (tolerance and appetite) is mostly determined by the following factors: 1. Investment horizon: if you have a short investment horizon (3 years or so), you might not want to expose your portfolio to too much risk in order to try and avoid possible capital erosion. If your investment goal is further away, you can possibly take on more risk and be rewarded with a higher return. Patience is a key consideration for successful investors. 2. Age: younger investors can usually take on more risk than older investors as younger

investors have many incomeearning years ahead whereas older investors might be nearing retirement or are already retired. Younger investors typically have more time available to recover from setbacks than older investors. 3. Past experience: investors who’ve had a pleasant experience with a specific investment product will tend to invest in the same product again, on the other hand investors who’ve experienced big losses on the equity market might not be too willing to invest in equities again. 4. Knowledge: when you have a better understanding of an investment product and you are aware of the pros and cons, you are generally willing to take on more risk by investing in that product. 5. Disposable income: investors are usually willing to take on more risk when their disposable income (income minus expenses) leaves a fair margin of comfort over short term needs which would enable them to better absorb particularly

negative short-term volatility in their investment portfolio’s performance. 6. Financial responsibilities: the more dependants and consequently financial responsibilities an investor has, the less risk they are (and should be) willing to take. 7. Emergency fund: investors can possibly take on more risk when they have sufficient liquid cash available should financial emergencies occur. These are only guidelines. To reliably determine your risk profile, you might need to do an extensive risk assessment and complete a so-called ‘risk profile questionnaire’. How do you ensure a positive relationship between risk and return? Risk and return are positively correlated which means that lower risk investments will generally have a bigger potential to produce a lower long-term return than higher risk investments. Diversification

across different asset classes (i.e. property, equity, bonds), different sectors (industrials, health, telecoms, etc.) and different geographies (local and foreign) is an important tool in managing investment risk. The positive returns enjoyed from certain investments can then serve to offset negative returns that you might be experiencing on other investments. The age-old saying of “don’t put all your eggs in one basket” holds true. Investors tend to self-sabotage and exit their investments when markets are volatile. Someone once said that the most successful investor is someone who forgets his/her online password to check on their investments. You should, with the help of an investment professional, formulate an appropriate investment plan or strategy, suitable to your unique needs and objectives and in line with your risk profile. Review your portfolio’s performance regularly and stick to your investment plan. Don’t change your investment

strategy because of short-term noise in the markets. Your investment strategy needs adjustment only when your personal circumstances change. The opinions expressed in this article are the opinions of the writer and not necessarily those of PSG. The information is provided as general information. It does not constitute financial, tax, legal or investment advice and the PSG Konsult Group of Companies does not guarantee its suitability or potential value. Since individual needs and risk profiles differ, we suggest you consult a qualified financial adviser, if needed.

PSG Wealth Hermanus Portfolio Management and Stockbroking 028 312 1508 10 Magnolia Street www.psg.co.za/hermanus stockbrokers Send your financial questions to dewaal@thevillagenews.co.za

27 February - 5 March 2018

The health benefits of living in Hermanus

e are truly blessed to live in our little bit of paradise on earth. Hermanus, situated in the heart of the Overstrand, has so much to offer on all fronts. However, with the festive season barely behind us and the frantic start to the new year I wonder how many of us have taken the time to look around and truly appreciate what we have. So what are the advantages to our health of living on the Cape Whale Coast? 1. No air pollution Champagne air is synonymous with Hermanus. This is partly

Amanda Hofmeyr thanks to Sir William Hoy who stopped the train tracks from being laid and from a train ever entering Hermanus. So what are the benefits of breathing this clean air? The most obvious answer is that we have cleaner lungs; however this is not where the benefits end. We also have improved mood and better

digestion as the oxygen-rich air flows through our body, feeding all the muscles and upping serotonin production. 2. No noise pollution Hermanus is ever growing and while that necessarily means more noise pollution than is to be found in the middle of the Karoo, I do not think we can

compare our noise pollution to that of the big city. Instead of waking at 6am to the sound of traffic already backing up we are instead waking up to the sounds of the Cape Canary and Cape Robin welcoming us to a new day. 3. Able to trace the source of our food We have the most beautiful source of organic and freerange products being grown all around us. We only have to change our outlook slightly and start eating what is in season. By doing this we are getting maximum nutrition

from our fruits and vegetables which aids the body in its performance. 4. Enjoying the great outdoors We are surrounded by mountains and the ocean, with endless opportunities for healthy activities such as walking, running, cycling, swimming and surfing. Best of all, walking the Cliff Path, hiking in Fernkloof, running on the beach or frolicking in the waves costs us nothing. City dwellers have to travel some distance to find such opportunities or are forced to

join a gym to get their dose of healthy exercise. 5. Sense of community A small town such as Hermanus generates that sense of wellbeing which in turn gives us a sense of belonging. This means that we are able to contribute to the needs of others as well as being influenced by others. A sense of community and belonging goes a long way to promoting positive mental health. Yes, Hermanus = happiness. So we need to fight hard to keep this feeling of fellowship and continue to grow as a community.

27 February - 5 March 2018

Just Care-ing for our children It has been all systems go at Just Care Aftercare since the start of the new school year, with approximately 130 primary school children finding refuge at the centre during after-school hours. Following the ground-breaking ceremony at the end of July, construction of their new double-storey building in Malva Street in Mount Pleasant proceeded at a brisk pace and was completed by the end of the year. The new centre was officially opened in December by the then Deputy Mayor of the Overstrand Municipality, Dudley Coetzee. Before that, Just Care had been operating from Mount Pleasant Primary School since May 2015. Just Care founder and trustee, Jacquie Rathfelder, says they were in dire need of their own premises and were overjoyed to receive a generous donation of just under R500 000 from Lighthouse 2 Lighthouse as the 2017 Ladies Walk’s charity of choice. The new centre has a reception area, canteen, kitchen, bathrooms and library downstairs, with classrooms upstairs and a small garden where the children can play. They employ seven staff members and several volunteers. The need is so great, however, that the premises are already

THE

NEWS

HELPING Hand Sponsored by Hermanus

inadequate in accommodating all the children in need of care. Jacquie says it pains her to show parents away, but the centre is already stretched to the limit and many had to go on the waiting list. In the afternoons, it is a beehive of activity as the children are fetched from school and sit down to have lunch. There is not enough space to accommodate them all at the same time, and lunch is served in three sessions, with the Grade R’s arriving at 13:00, the Grade 1 and 2’s at 13:30 and the Grade 3 – 7 group just after 14:00. Preparing daily meals for over a hundred children is a huge undertaking, as is the supervision of homework and other activities such as sport, arts and crafts, and reading classes. The children are also taught life skills such as the importance of good manners and how to stay safe. Other topics include sex education and awareness of the dangers of

crime, drugs and alcohol. Just Care Aftercare was founded by Jacquie in memory of her father, John, who had been a teacher for 25 years, and is a safe haven for the many children whose parents work full time and who were previously left to their own devices after school hours, without proper care, structured activities, guidance or supervision. “Children require a nurturing touch in order to grow and prosper. Our team of staff and volunteers provide this care on a daily basis,” says Jacquie. “Many of these children have grown up surrounded by violence and are prone to fighting because they have no trust and have always been let down by everyone. Just Care did not let them down – and it makes all the difference. It is wonderful to see how they change and become more confident and affectionate, ready to smile and accept a hug. It makes it all worthwhile.”

Above: The Just Care Centre in Mount Pleasant caters for 130 primary school children. Below is Just Care founder and trustee, Jacquie Rathfelder with some her charges having lunch after school.

To find out how you can assist this project by making a donation, taking part in their Buy a Brick Campaign or by sponsoring an underprivileged child for just R150 pm, visit www.justcare.co.za/donations. They are also in dire need of clothes, especially shoes and socks, toys, books, sport equipment, and chairs for the dining room and classrooms.

27 February - 5 March 2018

Tough draw for Stormers at 2018 Super Rugby

he 23rd edition of Super Rugby kicked off on 17 February at Newlands, with the Stormers winning a close encounter against the Jaguares from Argentina. There are 15 teams participating in this year's competition, reduced from 18 teams in 2017, after the Kings and Cheetahs (South Africa) and the Force (Australia) were dropped from this year's event.

Offside Tony Oâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;Hagan

The 15 teams are divided into 3 geographical conferences: the Australian Conference (4 Australian teams and the Japanese Sunwolves), the New Zealand Conference (5 New Zealand teams) and the South African Conference (4 South African teams and the Jaguares from Argentina). In the group stages, each team will play 16 matches. Teams play 8 inter-conference matches (home and away) and 4 of the

teams in the other two conferences (another 8 matches). The top of each conference will qualify for the quarter finals as do the next 5 teams with the best record across all 3 conferences, known as wild-cards. The 3 conference winners and the best wildcard will host the quarter finals, thereafter winners progress to the semifinals and finals. The Stormers have a difficult start to the season in that they have 6 away games in their first 9 fixtures. After the opening home game against the Jaguares, the next three opponents are the Warathas, Crusaders and Highlanders, all away from home. Two more home games and then away to the Bulls, Lions and Sharks on 3 consecutive weekends.

Eben Etzebeth in action for the Stormers.

In summary, the Stormers will play home and away games

against the Jaguares, Bulls, Lions and Sharks; and away games against the Warathas, Crusaders, Highlanders and Sunwolves. Home games will be against the Blues, Reds, Rebels and Chiefs. Based on previous performances, the teams on the road have fared far better in Super Rugby than those that the Stormers are scheduled to meet at Newlands. For the 2018 season, the Stormers have lost the services of Currie Cup stars Robert du Preez (Sharks) and Huw Jones (Scotland). Robbie Fleck also faces early season challenges, with the injury list reading like a casualty ward. Those injured include Bok captain Eben Etzebeth who will miss the Stormersâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; first 10 games. He has a shoulder and back injury incurred on the Springbok year-end tour and will only

return to action late May. Also injured are Frans Malherbe (back), Jano Vermaak (knee), Jean-Luc du Plessis (hip), Scarra Ntubeni (hamstring), Bongi Mbonambi (burst appendix), Pieter-Steph du Toit (back, but return imminent), Ali Vermaak (knee) and SP Marais (toe). Based on the current "walking wounded", the forward pack looks extremely fragile. Some good news however, is the new signing of the Cheetahs duo Raymond Rhule and Sergeal Petersen. Rumour of Duane Vermeulen, current Toulon captain, returning to the Cape have not been finally confirmed but could eventuate after his stint with Toulon. A tough season lies ahead for the Cape team, so let's hope the injury list improves as the team will need all available resources. Let's go, Stormers!

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27 February - 5 March 2018

Local swimmers make a splash

Camille Loriston from Hermanus High School came first in the Girls U14 200m Medley.

Laurent Blom from Hermanus High (second from right) won the Boys U19 50m Butterfly.

The Hexagonal High School Swimming Gala was held on Thursday 22 February at the Hermanus Municipal swimming pool in Zwelihle with five schools from the Western Cape participating. Hermanus High and Curro Hermanus competed together to represent Hermanus against Swartland, Robertson, Huguenot and Worcester Gym. Both Hermanus schools practiced tirelessly for the gala, with Hermanus High receiving training from pastor and ex-SA swimmer, Anton Duvenhage. Hermanus High will be holding their Colour Sports Swimming Gala on 15 March, which will see the blue, white and green teams competing.

PHOTOS: Taylum Meyer, Titanium Photography

BOLAND COLOURS On Saturday, 17 February Kayla Smith and Lea Boshoff from Hermanus Primary School received their Boland Colours for athletics. Kayla ran the U11 Girls 1 200 m and came third, improving her personal time by 13 seconds. Lea competed in the U12 Girls long jump and came second with a distance of over 4 m, just behind the winner who beat her by a mere centimetre. Both girls will participate in the Western Cape Schools event that will take place in Oudtshoorn on 3 March.

27 February - 5 March 2018

Melodrama 2018 Audience members, young and old, were once again thoroughly entertained by the matric class of 2018 at Hermanus High Schoolâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Melodrama on Friday, 23 February. The school hall was packed with excited family members and friends who were ready to cheer on the matrics as they danced to their favourite musical numbers. The mothers of the matrics as well as some of the teachers also performed. This event is an annual highlight on the schoolâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s calendar and gives matric learners the opportunity to perform and work with their classmates while creating special memories of their final year at school. - Dayne Nel

PHOTO: Taylum Meyer, Titanium Photography

The Hermanus High School Matric Class of 2018 was ecstatic to perform in the school's annual Melodrama on Friday 23 February. The Village NEWS caught up with the excited students for a quick group photo at the dress rehearsal a few days before the show.

27 February - 5 March 2018

Whalers break records in run-up to Two Oceans

lose to 30 members of the Whalers Athletic Club entered the Full and Half Marathons at the recent Peninsula Marathon held in Cape Town on 18 February. A Whalers record was achieved in this event when Jimmy Bonjesi completed the marathon in the remarkable time of 2hrs 28min, finishing 4th overall. An outstanding result by this athlete who turns 40 in April, beating a field of runners, many of whom are half his age!

Jimmy, who won the trophy for Best Male Athlete of the Whalers Club last year, put in a lot of hard work to improve on his time of 2hrs 42 mins at last year’s Peninsula Marathon when he finished in 11th position. Next up is the Two Oceans, and a record 61 Whalers have entered the ultra marathon (56 km) and half marathon to be held in Cape Town on 31 March. There are 28 entries (22 men, 6 ladies) in the Ultra and 33 in the Half

(12 men, 21 ladies). A nota-ble entry in the 56 km race is 73-year-old Gavin Turner, who will be competing in his 21st Two Oceans. What a record! Whalers Athletic Club continues to flourish and we wish this close-knit family of runners success and the odd record as a by-product of this unique group. With Jimmy on the photo is Whalers Club Captain Mikki Milne. – Tony O’Hagan

27 February - 5 March 2018

Very welcome rains, course of the month and a hole in one!

reetings once again from a happy pirate; whenever a pirate sees water he is definitely happy! We had about 14mm of rain recorded last week, admittedly it was a violent storm but beggars cannot be choosers. We actually had to close the course at about 18:00 on Tuesday as the lightning was way too dangerous!

The Putting Pirate Julian Shaw

Course of the Month We basically have two major golf publications in South Africa, the Golf Digest and Compleat Golfer. I am extremely proud to announce that Hermanus Golf Club will be featured in the April issue of Compleat Golfer as the Course of the Month. It’s a great honour and as always will give some excellent exposure to our club and town. Well done to all the staff at the club for a super effort, especially being so busy over the last few months! Hole in one Saturday was indeed a special day, when Dr Nico Rossouw managed the perfect fluke – a hole in one on the 24th hole! He casually knocked in a 5 rescue to huge applause. This, however, wasn’t his first one; he also had that last year here at HGC. The strange but true thing is that hole in one number 1 was on 18 February 2017, and hole in one number 2 was on 17 February 2018! What are the chances of that? Well done doc, just book me for the 16 February game next year!

Thanks This week your pirate turned another year older and I find that at my age now one does reflect a little more than one used to and planning for the future becomes even more important. My brother called me from the UK and we had a lovely chat; half of it was about pensions! A sign of the times… Anyway, many thanks for all the well wishes. We went out in the evening to Char’d Grill & Wine Bar in town and it was fantastic. Many thanks to the staff for looking after us so well; Char’d is definitely an evening venue I would recommend. Last giggle This week I end off with a subject that I have never poked a stick at before – the accountants of this world. Valuable as they are, they are ideal to make fun of!

Top: George Sauerman, one of our professionals kayaking down a street in Northcliff and the storm starting over the course.

Left: Dr Nico Rossouw managed the perfect fluke – a hole in one on the 24th hole

A woman is feeling poorly and goes to the doctor. He examines her thoroughly and then sits her down. “I have some bad news for you: you only have 6 months to live.” Shocked, the woman asks the doctor what she should do. “Marry an accountant,” he advises. “Will that make me live longer?” she asks desperately. “No, but the 6 months will seem much longer!” Keep calm and go golfing!

Scores at a glance LADIES TUESDAYS 13 FEBRUARY Alliance Stableford 65 players Winners: Pat van Renen, Elize Nykamp, Lynne Behagg and Cheryl Richardson - 79 points. MEN’S WEDNESDAYS 14 FEBRUARY Alliance Stableford 156 players Winners East Course: Carl Grobler, CP Terblanche, Sarel Ackerman and Jan Mulder - 90 points. Winners North Course: Deon Esterhuyse, Frans Esterhuyse, Tony Runkel and Tim Moffat - 92 points. Winners South Course: Lance Nel, Reinhard Buhr, Pieter Boshoff and ghost, Gerrie du Plooy - 96 points. Ball pool paid to 90. Best gross: Des Sauls, Tyron Davidowitz and Louis Bester – 71. SATURDAY MIXED 17 FEBRUARY 153 players 4BBB Stableford East Course (Red) 1 – 18: 1. Jan Kühn & Neil Malan – 44 C/I; 2. John Simson & Adrian Nel – 44 C/O. North Course (Blue) 19 – 27 & 1 – 9: 1. Philip-Ben Kotze & Louis Bester – 50; 2. Izak Krige & Desmond Sauls – 48 C/I. South Course (Green) 10 – 18 & 19 – 27: 1. Werner Otto & Walter Pretorius – 47; 2. CP Terblanche & Sarel Ackermann – 45 C/I. Hole in one on the 24th by Nico Rossouw. Jackpot won by Neil Malan. Ball pool paid to 45. Best gross: Louis Bester. The attendance draw this week was sponsored by Sterling Renault and was won by Neil Malan.

27 February - 5 March 2018

THE

NEWS

MY Sport

HI-TEC Walkerbay Xtreme returns to Hermanus with big prize money on offer

he HI-TEC Walkerbay Xtreme (WBX), a four-day adventure sports festival situated in the heart of Hermanus, will return to the Whale Capital for a third time between 27 and 30 April 2018. Although relatively new on the regional race calendar, WBX has been growing in popularity and is considered a firm favourite among elite and recreational sport enthusiasts alike. “We are thrilled to welcome athletes from across the country back to Hermanus at the end of April,” says Rick Oosthuyzen, founder of the HITEC Walkerbay Xtreme. “We received fantastic feedback after the 2017 event and have made some exciting changes to the event line-up.” With 12 disciplines to choose from, the Walkerbay Xtreme offers something for everyone – from adventure seekers, professional athletes and fitness fanatics to the recrea-

tional outdoor enthusiast looking for a new challenge and a fun-filled sporting holiday in one of SA’s favourite adventure sport hotspots. In addition to the old favourites - the Big 6 Xtreme, triathlon, MTB Criterium, open water swim, surfski and SUP events, as well as the popular Swim-Run-Jump Challenge the organisers have added a street mile sprint, off-road triathlon, junior triathlon, shorter open water swim and mountain bike challenge to the 2018 event mix. An added drawcard to the 2018 Walkerbay Xtreme is the prize money on offer R100 000 in prizes split across a number of events. The Big 6 Xtreme - which is entered as a separate event and sees athletes competing in the street mile, 30km MTB Challenge, Swim-Run-Jump Challenge, sprint triathlon, open water swim, and a beautiful 17km trail run -

will be held over the course of four days and participants will share a R30 000 prize purse. Other events with prize money include: •

• • • •

Walkerbay Xtreme Triathlons: R14 000 prize purse Marine Mile Xtreme: R11 000 prize purse Cliffpath Xtreme Fun Run: R10 000 prize purse Open Water Xtreme: R15 000 prize purse R20 000 prize total for athletes participating in both the Valley Xtreme MTB Challenge and the Urban Xtreme MTB Criterium

The action is centred in the heart of the village between the old and new harbours, providing an equally thrilling experience for supporters and spectators. Online entries are open. For more information, visit walkerbayxtreme.com or entries@walkerbayxtreme.com

The Hi-TEC Walkerbay Xtreme returns to Hermanus at the end of April and with 12 disciplines to choose from, it offers something for everyone – adventure seekers, professional athletes, fitness fanatics and families.