The Village NEWS 10 April - 17 April 2019

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The dominant stallion of the Fisherhaven herd, William, grazing on the edge of the Bot River Estuary where the horses often roam.

PHOTO: Leanne Dryburgh

What is future of our wild horses?

Writer Hedda Mittner

T

wo tragic road accidents that occurred in less than a week and left two of Fisherhaven’s famous wild horses dead, have yet again raised questions about the wellbeing and long-term survival of this unique group of feral animals.

While many argue that the accidents were avoidable and lay blame at the foot of the Overstrand Municipality, others are convinced that the presence of the horses in a residential neighbourhood is becoming increasingly dangerous for residents,

motorists – and the horses.

The first incident occurred on Friday evening 29 March, when a VW bus travelling on the Middlevlei Road (an extension of Church Street, Hawston that runs through to Fisherhaven, where it links up with Farm Road), collided with a pregnant mare and two foals near the Meerensee turnoff, leaving the mare dead and one of the foals injured. The mare was known to locals as Star. Miraculously, the driver, allegedly a Hawston resident, and his three passengers escaped serious injury.

Dr Christo Frick of the Fisherhaven

Neighbourhood Watch, who was a first responder on the scene of both accidents, says he was shocked by the extensive damage to the VW bus and the fact that the mare was lying more than 400m away.

“The mare appeared to have been hit from behind and the severity of the impact strongly suggested that speeding and possibly reckless driving played a part,” says Christo.

“It is a dangerous stretch of road as it is very dark and in urgent need of street lights, but our appeals to the authorities for better lighting, signage and speed bumps have fallen on deaf ears. About 18 months ago a

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14-year-old jogger was also run over and killed on this same road.”

In the second incident less than a week later, a stallion known as Streetfighter was killed when it collided with a car on Farm Road on Thursday evening 4 April. According to Christo, he had been called out to investigate reports of gunshot and cars racing across a field shortly before the accident.

“I found the stallion, Streetfighter, lying in a ditch. The car’s whole windscreen had been crushed and the driver and two passengers, visitors to the area, were severely shocked but

fortunately unharmed. They said the horse had appeared out of nowhere and attempted to jump over the car. It definitely sounds as though he had been spooked by something, possibly gunshots or a vehicle backfiring.”

According to Christo, the increase in gang-related crime and gun violence in the area has become a serious problem. “The horses are not the problem. They have never harmed anyone before and we have co-existed in harmony for many years.”

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10 April 2019

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‘Rooisand horses are a national treasure’ at the entrance to Fisherhaven and a bylaw prohibiting people from feeding or petting the horses. She has now also managed to source a light-reflective spray which can be used on the horses to make them more visible at night.

From P 1 Someone who begs to differ, however, is Robin Perrins, who has owned property in Fisherhaven for 30 years and settled there permanently six years ago. He has served the community in various capacities, including as a Ward 8 committee member and chair of both the Fisherhaven Ratepayers’ Association and the Bot River Estuary Forum.

“Before retiring, I’d been a farmer for 27 years and horses have always been a part of my life,” he says. “The problem with the Fisherhaven herd is that there are too many stallions.

When the mares come into season, rivalry between the stallions escalates and there is vicious fighting. Certain people are trying to blame speeding motorists, but the truth of the matter is that the horses have become a threat on our roads. When they are agitated or frightened, there is no knowing which way they’ll run. They pose a serious risk, especially after dark, on the Fisherhaven roads and also on the R43.”

There are various fanciful tales about the origins of the Rooisand horses, but the most plausible is that their distant forebears were farm horses, known as the Bolandse Waperd, a distinct offshoot of the famous Cape Horse of the 18th and 19th centuries.

The Fisherhaven group came from the main Rooisand herd on the Kleinmond side, which historically moved freely between the western and eastern shores of the estuary along the beach, occasionally coming into the village but then heading back to their natural grazing. However, after the Bot River estuary was artificially breached in 2012, a group of these horses were stranded on the eastern shores and were unable to cross back over for three years. During this time they became habituated to life among the local residents of Fisherhaven.

In 2015 the Senior Environmental Manager of the Overstrand Municipality, Liezl de Villiers was instructed by the Mayor’s Executive Management Team (EMT) to set up a task group comprising various role players, including CapeNature, the Fisherhaven Ratepayer’s Association,

PHOTO: Christo Frick ABOVE: The wreckage of the VW bus that collided with and killed the mare, Star.

LEFT: Star is seen here with her foal, Spring, which was fathered

by William, the stallion pictured on the front page.

PHOTO: Leanne Dryburgh

Rooisand Horse Watch and Bot River Estuary Forum, to coordinate the relocation of the Fisherhaven herd to the western shores of the estuary at Rooisand.

Although public opinion, backed

by Rooisand Horse Watch, appeared to be firmly behind a policy of noninterference, De Villiers said at the time that “the municipality cannot allow the horses to roam freely in a residential area” and that the municipality had “a responsibility to ensure the health, well-being, safety and security of both the public and the animals”.

Robin believes it’s impractical to try and lure the horses back to Rooisand and that they will always return.

“That’s why they are still here,” he says, while pointing out that since 2015, more and more houses have been built in Fisherhaven. “The increase in vehicles, noise and building activity is disturbing them and, as the neighbourhood continues to develop, there will be less vacant space for them to roam and find grazing. They are becoming more used to finding food in garbage bins – just recently, I saw a foal walking around with clingwrap hanging from its mouth. This is not a healthy life for these horses.”

The only solution, according to Robin, is to have them impounded and invite farmers in the area to take ownership of the horses. They could even be broken up into two or three smaller groups, thereby separating

the rival stallions. “I now intend to take urgent and immediate steps to ensure that the decision of the EMT to attend to the relocation of the horses in the interests of the safety, security and wellbeing of these animals is implemented forthwith,” he says.

There are many residents, however, who do not agree with Robin. The Village NEWS has received several impassioned pleas for the horses to remain in Fisherhaven and to be protected by the authorities. “These beautiful wild horses were here first,” says Sherry Hoefnagel. “Long before people started building homes, this was their habitat. We moved here in 1993 because of the tranquillity and open spaces. To our delight, we found that, every now and then, a herd of wild horses would meander through the (then) quiet village. We were thrilled to experience this special treat for many years.

“I am 100% behind the horses being allowed to stay in Fisherhaven and will do anything within my power to make that happen. We can continue to cohabit peacefully if everyone cooperates. For example, people should be deterred from feeding and petting the horses, the speed limit on Fisherhaven’s roads should be reduced from 60 km/h to 40 km/h (as it was when we arrived), more speed bumps should be installed on the busier roads such as China Marais, Lagoon and Farm roads, and clear signage should be erected to warn

motorists of the presence of wild horses in the area.”

Leanne Dryburgh, the chair of the Rooisand Horse Watch, has spent many months observing and photographing the Fisherhaven horses, which will culminate in the publication of a book Fifty Years with the Wild Horses, due to be launched during Hermanus FynArts in June. “I know that encroaching urbanisation is getting tricky, but these horses are a national treasure and we have to look after them as best we can. They are part of the history of the area and a unique attraction,” she says.

Rooisand Horse Watch has recently been registered as an NGO and is now an official body with fundraising capacity and links with other horse-watching communities around the world. “The Fisherhaven community is committed to these horses – they are loved, protected and continuously monitored by a network of volunteer horse watchers and patrollers. They are healthy, they have enough to eat and drink, and several foals have been born and grown up over the years,” says Leanne.

To ensure that they continue to thrive, Leanne agrees that solutions need to be found in collaboration with the local authorities. Recommendations that were made to the task team as far back as 2015 included speed-calming measures, street lighting, signage boards, secure fencing along the R43, a cattle grid

“Any decision-making regarding the Fisherhaven horses will require input from Rooisand Horse Watch,” stresses Leanne. “We have studied the horses for many years and they are closely monitored. We know each horse by name and are aware of their movements, habits and characteristics, and the social dynamics within each group.” There are currently about 10 horses left in Fisherhaven while the main herd at Rooisand numbers around 26.

“Sadly, the first accident in which the mare, Star, was killed, had a traumatic impact on the dynamics of the Fisherhaven herd. Not only was her foal grieving and searching for its mother, but Star was the favoured mare of the stallion known as William. He, too, was frantic when she died and subsequently tried to take the mare of the other group’s dominant stallion, Streetfighter, which led to skirmishes.

"This could have played a role on the evening that Streetfighter galloped into the road and was killed in the second accident. But the current tension will soon dissipate and the herd is already beginning to settle down again.”

However, Dr Sandy Waddingham of the Hermanus Animal Hospital, who has been involved in treating the horses from time to time with her colleague, Dr Marc Walton, has expressed concern about their longterm wellbeing.

“Fisherhaven is sitting on a time bomb. The tensions will flare up again once the breeding season starts in spring,” she says, in reference to the predominance of stallions in the herd. “Sustainable solutions need to be found to protect both the horses and the public. This could entail first removing one small group or gelding some of the stallions.”

The Overstrand Municipality was unable to give comment by the time The Village NEWS went to print.

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10 April 2019

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Draft budget tabled for public input TOP CAPITAL T PROJECTS ough economic times and the local, draft municipal budget for 2019/20 – open for public comment - mean a tightening of belts, and proper budgeting for most residents.

Mayor Dudley Coetzee stated that the restoration of the damage to infrastructure, following devastating fires at the beginning of the year; the civil unrest of 2018; and the present state of the country’s economy make the task of balancing the cost of providing basic services to the residents of Overstrand a challenging exercise.

“The municipality tried to keep the rate increases affordable, and to the minimum required to maintain service delivery at an acceptable standard, as well as to ensure the continued maintenance and upgrading of existing infrastructure,” said a representative of Overstrand Municipality. “The budgeted property rates amount to R240 million.”

The draft annual budget, with the second review of the Integrated Development Plan (IDP) and Draft Water Services Development Plan (WSDP), was tabled on 27 March at a council meeting where the draft budget for the 2019/20 financial year was represented by a capital budget of R232,2 million, and an operational budget of R1,248 billion.

The proposed capital budget, allocated chiefly for the development and maintenance of infrastructure, shows an increase of R57 million, compared to the third adjustments budget

of the current (2018/19) financial year. This, primarily, relates to the roll-over of projects amounting to R36,6 million.

Copies of documents are available at the municipal offices and libraries or download them from Overstrand Municipality’s website www. overstrand.gov.za The closing date for written representation from the public is 30 April 2019. The municipality will consider concerns and comments before adopting the budget on 29 May 2019.

• New waste management facility for Hermanus – R20,3 million

• Water Master Plan implementation – R15 million

• Electrification of low-cost housing areas – R12 million

Refuse removal charges are set to increase by 12.86%.

This is due to increased costs incurred by Overstrand Municipality for dumping at the newly-constructed cell, with another contribution cost for moving the Hermanus Waste Management Facility, for which borrowing will be incurred.

• Hermanus: MV & LV upgrade/replacement – R8,8million

BUDGET EXPEDITURE

• CBD regeneration program – R7 million

• Vehicles for waste management – R5,9 million

The proposed, operating expenditure budget of R1,248 billion shows an increase of 8.1% over the current (2018/19) third-adjustment budget.

The total revenue budget amounts to R1,228 billion. This includes capital transfer of R60,3 million.

• Kleinmond – sewer network extension – R5 million

• Hawston Industrial (Business) HUB – R4.5 million

An increased property rate of 5.7% across the board, is proposed.

• Stormwater – Main Rd and High Street – R4.5 million

The municipality relies largely on service charges to balance its budget. These are derived from:

PROPOSED TARIFF INCREASES

• Electricity – R398,3 million • Water – R118,8 million • Sewerage – R77,8 million • Refuse removal – R70,1 million

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The proposed increase for electricity is 15% - based on the latest tariff application by Eskom to NERSA - subject to the final determination of the tariff increases by NERSA.

The tariffs for sewage and water to increase by 5.7% Average increase for sundry tariffs amounts to 5.7%.

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10 April 2019

Steering committee created for Schulphoek development Writer De Waal Steyn

T

he development of an affordable housing scheme on the Schulphoek land in Hermanus has taken another step in the right direction with the creation of a steering committee of the housing stakeholders’ group.

This was achieved when Premier Helen Zille returned to Hermanus for another round of talks on Monday. The steering committee has been tasked with scrutinising the three proposals that have been received thus far on what the Schulphoek development should consist of.

The proposed development, championed by the Premier, is based on the Better Living Model that will see the creation of well-located affordable housing on the land together with an upmarket section that will be used in subsidising the more affordable units.

Three development proposals have thus far been received. The first was done on behalf of the Western Cape Government by Makeka Design Lab, a Cape Town-based architectural firm. According to this proposal higher density units on the beach front will assist in subsidising the affordable housing units on the rest of the property.

The second proposal was done by the New Harbour Precinct (NHP), a group representing business and property owners in the Westcliff and Old Harbour Area. Their proposal mirrored that of the architects but called for a realignment of some of the access routes, and the development of a skills training centre on the corner of Still and Church Streets. The NHP also proposed creating gardens along some of the routes to help beautify the area, especially along Church and Still Streets.

After the stakeholders’ group granted an extension of two weeks to all interested and affected parties to draw up their own development plans, on Monday only the ANC was ready with their input. Siyabulela Notwala of the Land Party, one of only two delegates of the party who attended the meeting, said they were still busy with their public participation process and therefore had no submission to make yet.

ANC Chief Whip, Simphiwe Tebele, said the ANC proposes developing single residential units along the beachfront rather than high-density units. According to the proposal, the units will be built on erven ranging from 150m² to 200m² and should be sold at a cost of

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between R400 000 and R1 million.

He also proposed that provision be made for a Breaking New Ground housing scheme. These schemes are the updated versions of RDP housing and make provision for housing for people with a monthly income of between R0 and R3 500.

The ANC also asked for the extension of the current sports fields and the inclusion of a youth centre on the grounds.

Several of the stakeholders, including the Western Cape Department of Human Settlements and the architectural team, said the development of lower-density units along the beachfront would not make the project viable as it is these units in particular that must subsidise the rest of the development.

At Monday’s meeting Sandbaai resident, Edwin Wessels said, despite a unanimous decision by the stakeholders that no more shacks would be erected on the Schulphoek land, it has been continuing unabated, with parts of the Milkwood forest being cleared on a daily basis by shack dwellers.

“It has been clearly stated by all the parties in this forum that this should stop with immediate effect as it will not be possible to continue with the Better Living development if the land is occupied. At least 40 shacks have been erected since the first agreement was reached to stop these actions. As residents that are directly affected by these actions, we demand that all spheres of government do their duty and remove these illegal dwellings,” he said.

Hugo Potgieter of the Schulphoek Action Group confirmed this and said they were monitoring the erection of shacks on a daily basis.

“We have photographic evidence of every shack that has been erected since the moratorium was announced. It has gotten to the point where, during the weekend, heavy earth-moving equipment was brought onto the site and proceeded to start clearing the area to make roads. When I accosted the people doing this, I was told by a certain ‘Mr Skew’ that he is the sole developer of the area and that he does not need permission from anyone to continue with his work. He also stated that he answers to noone and that I must leave the area.”

Wessels also asked that consideration be given to using alternative building materials and designs to make the Schulphoek development a green eco-village.

Premier Zille said that this will be impossible to do. “In order for us to use alternative materials we will have to change the current legislation that governs the development of subsidised housing. Such a process on its own can take up to three years and we simply do not have that much time. I agree that this will be the best option, but at this late stage we must accept that the best cannot stand in the way of the achievable.

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“We have also found that in other areas where alternative building materials were used, people simply do not want to live in these units and they are standing empty,” she said.

According to Zille, she is aware of the fact that members of the Land Party have been posting on social media that they only attend the stakeholders’ meetings for the show and that they do not support the proposed development. “This will count against them in the long run as we are going ahead with the plans that are on the table, regardless of the fact that they have made no representations, although they are welcome to do so in future.”

After the meeting, the Whale Coast Business and Community Forum (WCBCF) said in a statement that they are happy with the assurances given by Mayor Dudley Coetzee that they will enforce the law and also apply the National Building Regulations and Standards Act to any new structures that were erected on the Schulphoek land after the moratorium was put into place.

“We see the formalisation of a steering committee and the assurances given by the mayor as a positive step and therefore have decided against implementing the rates boycott that we called for last week. We will, however, remain vigilant and active,” the forum said.

Housing and service delivery-related protests continue to plaque the Overberg, with disgruntled residents of Bot River and Caledon taking to the streets over the last two weeks. The protests have necessitated sporadic road closures and last week two people died in the ensuing chaos as members of the South African Police Service opened fire on protesting residents of Riemvasmaak in Caledon.

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10 April 2019

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LET’S TALK All parties must act in good faith Despite the socio-economic challenges faced by the Overstrand, as by most other communities in the country, there has been a sincere effort by local stakeholders to find solutions that will lead to a better future for all.

The proposed development of the Schulphoek land is a case in point.

This will be the second Better Living Model development in the country and is aimed at supplying affordable housing to more than 1 000 families.

This development will especially cater

for upcoming middle-class families, amongst them teachers, nurses, members of the SAPS and other professionals who are unable to afford houses in the rest of Hermanus.

The importance of this development cannot be underestimated as it will serve as the cornerstone of creating a new dawn for the Overstrand.

There are, however, two issues regarding this development that also need to be addressed. The first issue is the

spatial development plan for housing delivery in the rest of the Overstrand.

It is an open secret that some 40 hectares of land have been identified that, when developed, will yield 7 500 housing opportunities.

The plans around these developments need to be communicated clearly and concisely to all residents, as this will greatly affect the whole region.

who are not fully committed to the process.

These negotiations are being conducted in good faith and it is expected of each participant to comply with the rules of engagement.

The community cannot allow itself to become a political playball for those who are not acting in their best interest.

The second issue pertains to members of the housing stakeholders’ forum

This is the good NEWS – Ed

Shining a light on scandalous skullduggery

A Far Kraai

By Murray Stewart

to buy once? Rather manufacture something with a short lifespan so thevillagemuze@gmail.com we’re forced to visit the hardware shop more often.

I caught the end of a TV documentary about a light bulb in a Californian fire station that hadn’t been replaced for more than 117 years. This bulb was manufactured in the late 1890s by the Shelby Electric Company Ohio, (later swallowed up by General Electric) and was installed during the Second Boer War – around 1901. Lo and behold, ‘it burnith still’.

How on earth is that possible? We scratch our collective heads for answers, but, apart from dislodging dandruff, we achieve little in reaching a solution. Filaments in today’s average light bulbs claim to last 1 000 hours before letting out a pathetic ‘ping’ as they finally pop. Well, that is what’s written on the packaging, but we all know it’s a blatant lie. It’s called marketing.

The reason behind these frequent pings and pops though, is good old-fashioned capitalism, which is another word for greed. Where’s the profit in making an every-day product that consumers only have

It’s called planned obsolescence and, together with price-fixing, the manufacturers have us by the unmentionables.

Picture the scene: It’s 1895. Five millionaires (the major electronics manufacturers) are puffing Cuban cigars and quaffing single malt whiskey in a plush wood-panelled boardroom in Chicago. One of them holds up a large light bulb.

“Gentlemen, these bulbs are brilliant,” says Bright Spark One, “and they sure fit the bill, but they don’t pay the bill.”

“Hear hear! Hoor hoor!” from the other four (one apparently spoke Afrikaans). The problem, it seems, was the filament.

“This darned filament is thicker than my thumb,” complained Bright Spark Two. “It could last for more than a hundred years! We gotta make thinner filaments – maybe as thin as a…”

“A hair! A chest hair,” blurted out Number Three. “They’ll go ‘ping’ as

regular as Brooklax, but we can claim they’ll last a hundred, no, a thousand hours!” (More hoor hoors!)

The upshot was they all agreed on a price and a life-span, which we’re still stuck with today. However, they flatly deny there was any conspiracy or collusion – with the Russians or anyone else. And so, the thickness of the filament dictating our time of enlightenment was reduced from a thumb to a chest hair.

This chicanery, though, is not confined to light bulbs. Car manufacturers, for example, ‘create’ new models every year for those image-obsessed types who must have the latest of everything. Out with the old, and in with the new – regardless. Perception and status are paramount.

Printers are relatively cheap, but new inkjet cartridges were designed to be replaced more often than you’d expect. Kaching! Similarly, the makers of batteries for your torch or any electronic device, for that matter, also decided on the life and price of each article. They too deny there was any collusion with the Russians. Maybe the Chinese, but not the Russians.

Many years ago, tyre manufacturers

created a compound so durable that they guaranteed the rubber, between you and the road, would last longer than your car. But that stopped – mainly due to greed, but also through pressure from disgruntled agitators who used second-hand tyres effectively (with petrol) when necklacing and for road closures.

Another area of forced purchasing – which nobody really knows about – is the murky and highly-profitable world of alcoholic intoxication.

Centuries ago, alchemists concocted a brew that would eliminate our frequent trips to the pub or bottle store, to get merry.

A mugful on a Monday morning, before work, would be slowly released into the bloodstream and would keep you buzzing till the weekend – no top-ups necessary. This obviously flung the major hooch producers into a tailspin, and in blatant collusion, this time with the Russians (vodka), they conspired – with the help of the Guptas – to steal and burn the ancient formula.

Fortunately, we have the original in the archives at The Explanation of Everything, so ask the editor for details.

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10 April 2019

LET’S TALK Voëlklip community seeks solutions to baboon problem After some lengthy delays and consideration, a Facebook page has been established, with the objective of circulating relevant information, receiving reports and recording events involving the baboons in Hermanus.

Affidavits from persons attacked by baboons, domestic pets being terrorised, photos of home invasions, injuries to elderly residents who try to escape or lock doors, amount to a significantly compromised community.

Regrettably, after more than five years without baboon monitors, the Voëlklip troop has become habituated to suburbia, to such an alarming extent that aggressive behaviour towards humans and domestic pets has replaced the natural instinct of fear and caution.

The Fernkloof Nature Reserve extends to over 16km² and alongside, Vogelgat, another expansive area of pristine reserve is abundant with the food baboons should be foraging. There is no reason why these primates should not be encouraged back to the reserve, if it is not too late. At least five new generations of baboons in the Voëlklip troop have been habituated to suburbia and are familiar with humans and human food, and have no instinctive fear of traffic either, since the withdrawal of the monitors by the Municipality.

The baboons have caused enormous damage to homes, and the elderly and young families now live in fear, barred and trapped inside their homes, windows seldom open.

After numerous discussions, appeals and petitions from over 450 residents in the most affected areas, the community remains under siege.

The page also aims to actively campaign for the urgent re-introduction of the monitors, and to add support

And yet the current situation seems to be saying something entirely different. A look at Lemm’s Corner (now Em’s Corner since the signage long ago lost its L and M), on Sunday morning 31 March, was a disturbing reality of a ‘new wave’ of vagrants camping out on this historical site.

We see a strong presence of Law Enforcement Officers in town, but they appear entirely disinterested, and on weekends and public holidays spend most of their time ticketing

visitors’ cars – obviously easier and more lucrative. This out-of-control situation, with increasing numbers of vagrants and beggars, does not bode well for the future of the CBD, let alone Hermanus as a well-known international tourist destination.

Lemm’s Corner is the heart of the Old Town. How can this important location be ‘revitalised’ to serve as a showcase for Hermanus? What about developing the site into a beautiful, indigenous park that could transform a neglected and tired historical landmark into a focal feature to represent the flora of the Overberg. In a supervised and maintained setting, this floral gem would be of interest, and provide enjoyment and pleasure to both visitors and locals, serving as a window into the prolific natural, botanical world of the area. A working committee of Old Harbour management and Fernkloof Nature Reserve could revitalise this very important

Healthy and robust debate are crucial for democracy. The Village NEWS firmly believes in freedom of the press as well as the right of individuals to freely express themselves, as long as they don’t infringe upon the rights of others. The opinions, beliefs and viewpoints expressed by the various authors therefore do not necessarily reflect the opinions, beliefs and viewpoints of The Village NEWS. Letters may be shortened and/or edited for clarity and style.

Send your letters to letters@thevillagenews.co.za

for the introduction of proper training by experienced specialists in the field of baboon management, such as Human Wildlife Solutions.

I am not qualified to offer scientific advice, but I am passionate about returning the baboons to their natural habitat, and I do believe that by spreading information, the community will be enabled to sort this out.

If you would like to comment or add photographic records, please do so, by including the date, time and place of the event or incident.

Please forward the link to those who may wish to participate in bringing back the monitors and sending the baboons back to the safe sanctuary of the reserve.

Visit our Facebook page at fb.me/hermanusbaboons and send messages to m.me/hermanusbaboons.

Pat Redford

Stop killing the goose With the ongoing protests, load-shedding, fires, the proposed construction and maintenance work on the CBD drain-water pipes, the forthcoming election and the municipality’s indifference to the revitalisation of the Old Town, we should welcome Minister of Tourism, Derek Hanekom’s forecast of a tourist boom next year (Get Ready for New Wave of Tourists – The Village NEWS, 27 March 2019).

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www.thevillagenews.co.za

historical locale to benefit the future of Hermanus.

An early morning visit to Lemm’s Corner on a Sunday or public holiday by senior municipal officials or councillors would be an eye-opener to the sad situation which exists – and would give them the real picture of the Old Town with its litter, debris and neglect. Extending their walk to other landmarks of the town, they would see the noticeable deterioration of the local post office and the adjacent, roofed letter box structure that has become a bedroom and toilet for ‘bergies’.

It is time that the authorities take note of the rapid collapse of the CBD and the probable decline of future tourism. The Old Town should be the ‘golden egg’ – let us stop killing the goose!

Noel Hunt

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One of our readers, Joletta Frahm, sent The Village NEWS this photograph which she took recently at the New Harbour. “It’s unbelievable that these days, with so much awareness being raised about the need to protect our endangered marine life, there are still fishermen who so carelessly discard their fishing line on the dolosse,” she wrote. “I untangled this lot before disposing of it; just imagine what harm it could bring to our whales and other marine life.”

Varsity’s future looking bright Generous commitments from donors in the past week make it more certain that the Hermanus Varsity has a bright future. One benefactor who, for now, wishes to remain anonymous has offered R500 000 in immediate seed funding and has promised to match donations up to an amount of R3.75 million.

The significance of this incredibly generous pledge is testament to the donor’s confidence in the ability of the Hermanus Varsity Trust (HVT) to mount and manage a tertiary educational initiative that will benefit the Overstrand region.

It also enables us to equip the campus hub for the pilot programme of courses for the higher certificate in

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In the few months since the HVT started soliciting funds, the varsity has received combined pledges and donations in the region of R800 000.

Readers will appreciate that funding infrastructure and a small administrative staff while providing the necessary student support means that the HVT is continuously in need of funds.

Gideon Serfontein, on behalf of the HVT

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regional economic development. Students who enter the programme in July will have access to the necessary IT and other infrastructure. Taking a longer-term view, by matching contributions from other donors, the varsity’s funding for the next three to four years looks secure.

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www.thevillagenews.co.za

YOUR OPINION Lamloch – sanctuary or environmental disaster?

By Rob Fryer General Manager, Whale Coast Conservation A lot has appeared in the media arguing the toss about whether the proposed development of a Game Farm or “Wildlife Sanctuary” outside Kleinmond is a good or bad idea.

Most of the arguments have related to whether the keeping of elephants and other “wild” animals for tourists to view is a good or bad thing. Whale Coast Conservation (WCC) is of course concerned about the morality of keeping “wild” animals captive in small camps where tourists can view them at close quarters, but we are focusing on the detrimental effects the proposed development will have on the sensitive ecosystems on Lamloch Farm No. 892.

From a moral perspective we need to get clarity from the developer on a number of issues. Firstly, is the proposal for the creation of a ”wildlife sanctuary”, which is a place created for the benefit of the animals where they are protected from harm, or is it a “game farm”, which is a place where animals are bred for commercial purposes? From the Pre-Application Basic Assessment Report (PBAR), which gives the intention as “The Applicant wishes to introduce eight elephants and other wild life for tourism purposes”, clearly, the purpose is for the commercial exploitation of the animals, so the Wildlife Sanctuary signs erected on the property are misleading and should be amended to read “Game Farm”.

Continuing with the moral issues, can the animals to be housed be truly referred to as “wildlife”? The animals will have been in captivity and have been acquired through commercial transactions. They are going to be enclosed in camps separated by electrified fences. Unable to forage for food, they will be fed by keepers, habituated to the point where they will be incapable of being returned to the wild. This is the antithesis of environmental conservation; a practice that internationally is being forced out of existence because of the deleterious, cruel effect on the captive animals.

Do we want to allow the introduction of a game farm, masquerading as a wildlife sanctuary, that will exhibit animals that are not endemic to the Overstrand and risk destroying sensitive and endangered ecosystems critical to endemic fauna and flora?

While society must deal with the moral issues involved, these are subjective and may be difficult to resolve.

The clearly detrimental environmental effects of the proposed game farm on Lamloch Farm No. 892, and the interpretation of environmental law relating to the fencing of “coastal public property”, can be objectively assessed and can form the basis for deciding the merits of the proposal.

The property has been enclosed by

an electrified game fence on the cadastral boundary. On the false assumption that the new fence simply replaces former fences, the developer was allowed to erect the fence across the watercourse that connects the Bot River Estuary with the Kleinmond estuary, a watercourse that WCC argues is defined in the Integrated Coastal Management Act as “Coastal Public Property” and should not be fenced. It is proposed that part of the area of the Bot River Estuary that has been enclosed by the boundary fence will have a tourist accommodation camp built over the water on stilts. How can this be contemplated in this sensitive environment? Surely the interests of the whole community dictate that the preservation of this watercourse must be protected from damaging development for the financial benefit of the developer?

The PBAR gives an understatement of the extent of the development relative to the area of the total property. It proposes that the footprint of buildings and infrastructure be the extent of the development. In truth, the whole of the area over which animal encampments will be created, and the area over which animals will be allowed to trample, should be included in the area deemed to be disturbed by the proposed Game Farm. That puts a very different perspective on the extent to which the proposed development will impact the property.

Environmental specialists have investigated the potential environmental impacts of the proposed game farm.

The overwhelming majority of the environmental aspects considered will result in negative impacts, the only positive being removal of invasive alien vegetation, which was largely performed by Working for Water at taxpayer’s expense. A killer concern is that an adaptive approach is being proposed for the management of damage to endangered plant species, when the National Environmental Management Act prescribes the implementation of the “precautionary principle”.

In an adaptive approach, the philosophy is “try it and monitor the results, make changes according to what happens”. The precautionary approach requires that, if the risk of damage is present, don’t implement until or unless it can be shown that there will not be damage to biodiversity. This property is classified by the South African Biodiversity Institute as a Critical Biodiversity Area and it considered of worthy of inclusion into the core area of the Kogelberg Biosphere. Surely it is inappropriate to adopt an adaptive, wait and see what happens approach to such conservation-worthy land?

The Botanical Specialist notes the following: “The presence of elephants on the property would have a large influence on the future condition of the indigenous vegetation. It is uncertain whether the effects of

their eating and trampling will have a significantly negative impact on the flora of the property (especially within the elephant camps, but also in the remainder of the property). It is therefore recommended that an assessment should be carried out before the elephants are introduced to the property to ascertain a baseline condition, and then at least once a year in the first three years of their presence on the property.

“After this, a follow-up assessment should be conducted every two years. This must be written into the EMPr (Environmental Management Programme) and carried out by a suitably qualified botanist/ecologist.

If it is determined that the indigenous vegetation is being negatively impacted, the elephant numbers must either be reduced until a balance is achieved and the carrying capacity of the land is matched with the correct number of elephants or they must be accompanied at all time by a handler if they leave the camps to ensure that they do not cause excessive damage to the indigenous vegetation.”

Since the business model relies upon the elephants as a tourist drawcard, if the elephants are found to cause damage to the critically endangered flora on the property, they would have to be removed, thereby killing the financial viability of the development.

In the Betty’s Bay area there is an example of the effect of keeping horses in an encampment on the local fynbos. Within two to three years the fynbos was destroyed, and the encampment was transformed into a sand dune. Is that not likely to be the consequence of introducing elephants and other animals into encampments on the Lamloch property?

Alarmingly, Cape Nature has issued permits to the developer for keeping eight elephants before it has assessed the environmental impact of keeping them on the Lamloch property. Attempts to obtain copies of the application and the terms and conditions attached to the permit have been unsuccessful; Cape Nature refuses, even after receiving an application for information as provided by the Promotion of Access to Information Act, to provide information or copies of the application or permit. This is arrogance of the highest order and needs to be challenged in the public interest. The PBAR also does not include the elephant management plan; this too needs to be challenged in the public interest.

Details of the proposal can be found at https://www.dougjeff. co.za/index.php/projects/131-lamloch-game-farm-and-tourist-facilities. The deadline for comment is 2019-04-14. You are encouraged to take a personal interest in your environmental heritage and to submit comments. WCC will be doing so.

THE VILLAGE

EXPLORER WINE | FOOD | EVENTS | ART

THE HOME OF FINE BOOKS 028 313 0834

Benguela Cove reveals its new treasures Writer & Photographer Hedda Mittner

B

enguela Cove Lagoon Wine Estate hosted a wine treasure hunt on Friday, 5 April to launch two new ranges that have joined the stable under leadership of winemaker, Johann Fourie. Visitors were treated to a preview of the new vintages of Benguela Cove Estate Wines, as well as the Vinography range and their flagbearer, the Catalina Semillon 2017.

The Benguela Cove Estate Wines include Sauvignon Blanc, Chardonnay, Pinot Noir, Syrah, Cabernet Sauvignon, Malbec and a Bordeaux-style Blend. Their classic Joie de Vivre MCC, made from Pinot Noir and Chardonnay, was joined in December 2018

by Cuvee58, Benguela Cove’s first Méthode Cap Classique made from Sauvignon Blanc.

Johann readily admits that he enjoys experimenting, pushing the boundaries and doing things that people say can’t be done. For starters, he describes Benguela Cove’s location – close to the ocean and battered by winds – as “the textbook place not to grow vines”. It turns out Johann delights in straying from the textbook and, with four different soil types and 12 different varietals from various clones planted in site-specific blocks, he says the estate provides “an amazing diversity for a winemaker to work with”.

However, one clearly needs to know the rules before one can break them.

During his 10 years with KWV in Paarl, Johann accumulated a seemingly endless string of local and international accolades and awards, among them the 2016 Diner’s Club Winemaker of the Year, both the General Smuts and Pietman Hugo trophies at the

2015 Young Wine Show and a record number of gold and double gold Veritas awards.

By 2016, he was ready to trade the corporate environment of the leading KWV wine brand to settle with his family in Hermanus and start a new chapter as head winemaker of this boutique wine estate on the edge of the Bot River Lagoon. While the Benguela Cove Estate Wines will always remain centre stage, the new Vinography range, made in very small quantities, represents the knowledge accumulated over the years to make wines that represent the unique terroir.

“The vines are now between 12 and 16 years old and have adapted well to the marginal conditions,” Johann says enthusiastically. “Winemaking is an ongoing process. One can never become complacent and one always needs to investigate the road less travelled. It is important for me to challenge the status quo, to colour outside the lines and try new things outside my comfort zone. This is what Vinography is all about.”

The three wines in the Vinography range are Sauvignon Blanc, Chardonnay and Petit Verdot. Only a few hundred bottles of the 2017 vintage of each was produced, making these exquisite wines real collectors’ items.

The label depicts an RAF Catalina flying boat landing on the lagoon, honouring the history etched on the land where the estate today stands.

During World War II the lagoon was used as a base from which, guided by the nearby radar stations at Cape Hangklip and Betty’s Bay, the pilots engaged U-boats along the coast. Of the fourteen soldiers stationed at the base, three returned to marry South African women.

Against this backstory, the Catalina Semillon tells its own, unique wine story. To find out more, go to www.benguelacove.co.za or visit the tasting room on the R43.

ABOVE: Jaco Sadie of Benguela Cove with the Wine Village family, Ulla, Paul and Cathy du Toit.

LEFT: Jacques le Roux, Amanda Hofmeyr and Mark Kahts from The Wine Glass.

BELOW: Whale Coast Tourism Manager, Frieda Lloyd, Platter’s SA Wine Guide editor, Philip van Zyl and Benguela Cove winemaker, Johann Fourie.

The crowning glory of the morning’s tasting, which was preceded by breakfast canapés and followed by a cellar tour and lunch at the Moody Lagoon Restaurant, was the Catalina Semillon 2017. Produced from a single vineyard, this “flag bearer for what is possible at the Benguela Cove Estate” is a wine that represents exceptional quality and longevity.

Awarded five stars by Platter’s SA Wine Guide, it is only sold in sets of three.

STERLING

RENAULT

R255 900 5 Mitchell Street, Hermanus, 7200 Tel. 028 312 1143 sterling@sterlingrenault.co.za www.sterlinghermanus.co.za

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10 April 2019

What's Cooking

Tulip – the coolest place for hot coffee

By Hedda Mittner

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ulip Coffee Bar & Bistro is one of the happiest places in Hermanus. Trust me, if you’re having a bad day, slip into this charming establishment on the corner of Hope and Dirkie Uys Streets, get yourself a coffee and settle into any of the cosy corners, either inside, on the front or side stoeps, or in the leafy courtyard garden. Take in the relaxed ambience, look around at all the people, happily going about their business – and breathe out.

This is the world that young Justin Dods has created – a laid-back space that is merely an extension of himself.

The lad grew up in Hermanus and yes, he is one of the Dodses that seem to be all over the place, including mom Carole who is the owner of the Jol Emporium in Long Street, and brother Stuart who is a member of the talented local band Retrodizzy and whose artworks adorn the walls of Tulip. And now there’s “Auntie Anna”, who is running the kitchen and plying customers with wholesome, tasty and healthy food.

Justin was six years old when the family relocated to Hermanus, where his grandparents had retired. He matriculated from Hermanus High School in 2009 and apart from studying photography in Cape Town and spending some time in France working on yachts, coffee has pretty much been his thing since then. Having

Baristas in action: Justin and Bradley.

learnt all about roasting, blending, grinding and brewing coffee from Mike and Elaine Bauer at The Eatery and The Beanery, he decided to strike out on his own two years ago.

Having secured the premises – an old house with high ceilings and wooden loorboards – he set about creating an open-concept interior that incorporated a communal table, a lounge area and a few private nooks, so that customers could either gather in groups or mind their own business, undisturbed. He also remodelled the kitchen, installed a wood-burning stove for those chilly winter days and, more recently, moved the cofee bar over to the opposite side of the main room to create another dining area.

“I want this to be a place where people feel at home and can come to chill out,” Justin says. “I like the whole cofee culture and enjoy being around people, conversing and sharing.” His down-to-earth establishment seems to have grown organically

and he says he “never really planned anything”.

And that seems to be just the way the locals like it, as Tulip has become the go-to place for meetings and get-togethers by the movers and shakers of Hermanus. Here they can be found discussing the various issues of the day, whether it’s about the proposed Fernkloof Management Plan, the bypass road, the Lamloch game farm or the Schulphoek land question.

Of course, Tulip’s killer cofee is the main drawcard, and those who don’t have time for a sit-down can grab a take-away cofee and a breakfast canapé on the go. You’d be well advised to make yourself comfortable, though, and set time aside to enjoy a proper breakfast or lunch – the food is seriously good and beautifully prepared. Chef Ann Leslie, (aka “Auntie Anna”), who bears an uncanny likeness to her sister, Carole Dods, has had many years of experience

PHOTO: Hedda Mittner

FOOD | 13 11

10 April 2019

WINE & DINE Lau’s Cuisine

LISTINGS

Village Square (opp Ocean Basket)

T: 079 474 6781

Sushi 15% discount

LB Seafood

At the Village Stall

Village Square Hermanus T: 028 312 3611

Bientang’s Cave

Hemel-en-Aarde Valley Hermanus T: 076 314 0671

Hemel en Aarde Village T: 028 316 2407

Old Harbour T: 028 312 3454 Open daily from 11:00 for lunch & dinner

alongside her chef husband, Chris, at fine dining restaurants around the world and in the Cape, such as La Vita in Welgemoed and La Verona in Durbanville.

Check the blackboard for their daily specials or order from the menu, which offers everything from a Thai Omelette (with lemongrass, lime leaves, coriander, mushrooms, and bean sprouts glazed in sweet chilli sauce) to Zucchini, Spinach and Corn Fritters (topped with scrambled egg and avocado). And then there are those Banana and Chia Pancakes that warranted a mention in a recent Hello! magazine article on Hermanus, entitled ‘Star Escapes’. “When someone told my daughter, Toni, that Tulip is mentioned in Hello! I just laughed and said it can’t be, she probably meant the You magazine,” chuckles Ann. But believe it you may – I’ve seen it with mine own eyes.

Back to the menu, you’ll be equally hard pressed to choose between a Sirracha Tuna Wrap, a Beef burger with Brie, bacon and caramelised onion, and a Thai glass noodle salad for lunch, or simply a hot Pastrami sarmie

with Emmenthaler cheese, pickles and mustard. Customers can soon be looking forward to enjoying a glass of wine with their meal, as Justin says they are in the process of applying for a liquor licence. “I have no idea how long that’s going to take, though,” he shrugs, with his usual unhurried demeanour. Here at Tulip, everything happens in its own good time.

On Saturdays the shop is closed when Justin does his usual stint selling Tulip coffee at the Hermanus Country Market. In typical laid-back fashion, he’s not worried about the trade he may be missing over weekends. “I’d rather work five days a week and enjoy every moment than work six or seven days a week and start to hate it,” he says. “Besides, my staff also need to have a life and spend time with their families over weekends.” What a simple and wholesome philosophy, I thought as I rushed back to the office to meet yet another deadline!

Find Tulip Coffee Bar & Bistro at 14 Hope Street or call 083 605 5298. Open Monday to Friday from 07:15 – 16:00 (kitchen closes at 14:00).

Blue Buck Bar

8 Harbour Road Hermanus T: 028 313 0629 Caffè Blu

Old Station building, Checkers Centre, Hermanus T: 028 312 4096

Mon-Fri 07:30-17:00 | Sat-Sun 08:00-15:00 | Pub Hol 08:00-15:00

Char’d Grill & Wine Bar

MOGG’S Restaurant

Wed-Sun 12:00-14:30 CLOSED Mon & Tue

Ocean Basket

Village Square Hermanus T: 028 312 1313 Oskars

Carriages Centre Shop 7, Hermanus T: 066 174 8263 Mon-Sat 07:30-17:00

Pear Tree

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

Village Square Piazza T: 028 313 1224

De Vette Mossel

Quayside Cabin

Prawn Flats, Voëlklip T: 064 552 6627 BOOKING ESSENTIAL EAT Restaurant

Section 4-6, The Village T: 028 316 2348 CLOSED Mon Tue-Sat 11:30-Late | Sun 11:30-15:00

Eden Café

Gateway Centre Hermanus T: 028 312 4439 Gecko Bar

New Harbour Hermanus T: 028 312 4665

New Harbour Hermanus T: 028 313 0752

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

Rossi’s Italian Restaurant

High Street Hermanus T: 028 312 2848 Soul Café

181 Main Road T: 028 313 2137

Tue-Sat 08:00-Late Sun 08:00-14:00

Tapas

7 Harbour Road T: 028 312 4840

Open daily from 11:00-02:00

Harbour Rock

New Harbour Hermanus T: 028 312 2920 7 days a week for lunch

Heritage Cottage

Justin's aunt, Chef Ann Leslie.

PHOTO: Hedda Mittner

21 Marine Drive Hermanus T: 028 312 2859 OPEN 7 days/week

Karmenaadjie

Van Blommenstein St Onrus T: 028 316 2967 OPEN Tue-Sat 12:00-22:00 | Sun 12:00-16:00

y Grill oëlklip 028 314 1637

The Restaurant @ Newton Johnson

Upper Hemel-en-Aarde Valley T: 021 200 2148 Wed-Sun 12:00-15:00

Walker Bay Grill

121 10th Street Voëlklip T: 028 314 1637

Wooden Barrel

Village Square T: 028 312 4377

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

CALL US: 084 688 5885

WHAT’S ON

OVERBERG Thursday

www.thevillagenews.co.za/whatson English and Afrikaans with experimental music.

Hemel-en-Aarde Brewery, The Village | 18:00

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Women in Business WIB is an open, voluntary, community organisation for female entrepreneurs and women in business in the Overstrand and Overberg. Bring your business cards and other relevant marketing material along to connect and share with fellow attendees. You are also welcome to bring prizes for the Lucky Draw. This WIB networking event will include a talk on Female Health by Dr Arien van der Merwe.

R160 pp includes refreshments (please pay cash at registration). For more information, contact Anneke Otto on 079 872 9631.

The Marine | 11:00

Herfskonsert (Autumn Concert) Enjoy an autumn concert with Hilda van Wyk (soprano), Rita Louw (piano), Heydi Kruger (flute) and Hanlo Rossouw (guitar). This evening of music and song will include works by Mozart, Chopin and Puccini and will conclude with Gershwin and other lighter numbers. R100 pp, including snacks and drinks. Contact Rita on 079 821 5955 or Hilda on 083 285 8626.

11 Ghwarrieng Crescent, Vermont | 18:30 for 19:00

Sunday

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

Contact Frank on 082 870 1187 to conirm your attendance.

Mollergren Park, Main Road, Hermanus | 19:00

Friday

OnVerWag Car Boot Sale Stop off at the empty plot between Aida and the Hire Centre and ind bargains galore! All proceeds go to the OnVerWag Neighbourhood Watch. Book your spot at R100 per boot by contacting Michelle on 076 617 8203 or mnheks@hotmail.com 9 Van Blommestein St, Onrus | 10:00 – 13:00

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Hermanus Hacking Group Volunteers are welcome to join the HHG, every Friday morning, on Rotary Way. For more information contact Charlyn Vosloo on 082 558 8731 or charlynvosloo@gmail.com Rotary Way | 06:45 – 09:00 Bhuki Café Everyone is welcome at Friends of the Library's Bhuki Cafe where a cup of tea or coffee and delicious eats will cost only R25, every Friday. Each cup helps to raise funds for new books.

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

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

ment of the school. The format is a 4 Ball Alliance at R650 per player. For enquiries, contact Hannalé Herholdt on 082 346 0570.

Hermanus Golf Club | 11:30 Hermanus Pre-Primary Bazaar Join in the school’s 40th birthday celebrations with live music, a dance competition, Zumba, hoola hoop competition and lucky draws. There will also be a Best-Dressed Clown competition with great prizes to be won (starting at 16:00), a Snake & Reptile show by Corné Uys (starting 16:30) and a live performance by Edian Barnard (starting at 17:30). R5 entrance fee.

Hermanus Pre-Primary School | 15:00 – 20:00

Saturday

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BirdLife Overberg outing Join BirdLife Overberg for a visit to the new hide on Jessie Walton’s farm near Elgin. Meet in the parking area of the Onrus Trading Post (OK Mini Market), from where transport will be arranged. A R50 petrol levy applies if you catch a lift. RSVP: Elaine at mwjasser@mweb.co.za or 082 455 8402.

Onrus Trading Post | 08:00

Travel & Adventure Talk U3A presents a talk on A hike down Kunene River Gorge by Richmond MacIntyre. The Kunene River, which forms the border between Namibia and Angola for approximately 350 km, has over time cut a path to the Atlantic Ocean. The track it has made through one particular range, the Otjihipa mountains, has resulted in a 40 km long gorge which Richard and four other adventurers hiked in 2017.

His talk will describe their experience of this remote and rugged terrain and the ovaHimba people of the area.

Catholic Church Hall | 10:00 Hermanus High School Golf Day This annual fundraising event is hosted by Hermanus High’s PTA and all proceeds go towards develop-

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

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

Harold Porter Botanical Garden | 08:00 Market in the Garden Hunt for treasures at this peaceful market set among the shady trees of a beautiful garden.

St Peter’s Church, Main Road, Hermanus | 09:00 – 13:00 Hermanus Country Market A favourite among the locals. Young, old, two-legged and four-legged family members are all welcome. You’ll ind wholesome goodies, homemade crafts, local produce, beers and wine, speciality foods, coffee and live music.

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

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

Stanford Hotel Stoep | 09:00 – 12:00 Gansbaai Farmer’s Market Specialising in organic, homemade and homegrown products such as fresh farm produce, oven-fresh bakes and pastries, local wines and craft beers, and indigenous plants and herbs. No plastic or polystyrene packaging, only eco-friendly wood, paper, glass and earthenware used to display goods. For enquiries, contact 028 384 1439 or doulene@gansbaaitourism.co.za Kapokblom Street, opposite Gansbaai Tourism | 09:00 – 14:00 Wellness Educator Training Dr Arien van der Merwe will present an Intro Seminar on Wellness Educator Training for Care Givers. Attendance is free but booking is essential.

Contact 067 1166 111 or Hermanus@ DrArien.co.za Zwelihle RDP Centre | 10:00 – 12:00 Connecting to your creative core Join local artist Gillian Hahn at her studio for a multi-media workshop

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

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

Monday where different art materials and techniques are used. No art experience is required as this is not an art class but rather an opportunity to get to know yourself on a deeper level, to get out of your comfort zone and reconnect with your creative core.

The cost is R300 pp including all materials. There will be another workshop on 27 April. Booking is essential.

Contact gillianhahn14@gmail.com or 076 181 2964 or visit www.gillianhahn.com Southern Right Wine Farm, Hemelen-Aarde Valley | 10:00 – 13:00

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Overberg Quilters Guild Quilters are welcome to join the guild for their meeting. Get more information by contacting Elize on 082 374 1533.

De Wet Hall, Roos St, Onrus | 09:00 for 09:30 Duplicate Bridge All who enjoy playing bridge are welcome to join in, every Monday.

For more information, contact Riekie Louw on 028 314 0662.

Fernkloof Hall | 13:00

Lunar Tunes Headphone Sound Journey For one night only! Dance under the stars to a carefully chosen playlist that moves through six different genres of music: Dubby deep, funky, broody, throbbing, melodic and progressive. Let your eyes feast on the fractal poetry of 3D visuals mapped onto the trees while feeling euphoric itness with the best current dance music. Take a mid-dance break for a scrumptious vegetarian or lamb potjie, included in your ticket of R200 pp. Book with www.quicket.co.za. For enquiries, contact DJ Dan / EpicSets on 082 074 8500.

Last Resort campsite, Blue Moon Farm, Stanford | 18:00 – 22:00 The BuckFever Underground Catch The BuckFever Underground when they visit Hermanus on their tour, Die Laaste Dae, to promote their newly-released album, Last Days of Beautiful. The Buckfever Underground is a South African spoken-word band that plays free-form improvised jazzrock / post-rock. Comprising Toast Coetzer, Stephen Timm and Michael Currin, the group performs poetry in

Hermanus History Society Publisher and author David Hilton Barber will be in conversation with Dr James Gray about his book, Matabele Rising. The book presents a compelling case for a resolution of the simmering conflict between the Shona and the Ndebele by dividing the country into two federal states of Mashonaland and Mthwakazi (Matabeleland). Could this two-state solution bring stability to Zimbabwe?

Refreshments will be available.

R20 for guests.

Catholic Church Hall | 15:30 for 16:00

Wednesday

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

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

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

Hermanus Astronomy Centre Join HAC for their monthly meeting, where Dr Shazrene Mohamed will do a presentation entitled Another one bites the dust. For more information, contact petermh@hermanus.co.za or 081 212 9481.

Catholic Church Hall | 19:00 U3A Afrikaans Lecture Series Dr Rudi Buys, who has been involved with transformation at universities since 2005, will present a talk entitled Brugbouerskap en samelewingsomvorming met spesiale verwysing na die sosiaal–politieke spanningsvelde in SA en in Hermanus. His book, Brugbouers, die Reitz-video en die pad na versoening was published in 2018 and Buys is currently the executive dean of the Cornerstone Institute in Cape Town.

Catholic Church Hall | 10:00

Tuesday

What a cost! We stand forgiven at the Cross; The Resurrection; Praise God for the price He paid for us; and Betrayal. The programme will feature music by composers Georg Vogler, Rochus Dedler, Cesar Frank, Beethoven, Brahms, J S Bach, Joseph Haydn, Vivaldi, Schubert and Mozart.

Catholic Church Hall | 10:00 Nature’s Own Pharmacy Dr Arien van der Merwe will show you how to prepare for winter by using natural remedies to support your respiratory and immune systems and how to manage the symptoms of colds and lu. The cost is R150 pp and booking is essential. Contact 067 1166 111 or Hermanus@DrArien.co.za Arundel Medical Rooms, Westcliff | 17:30 for 18:00 Poacher – Confessions from the abalone underworld Whale Coast Conservation presents a talk entitled Environmental or social crisis? by guest speaker Kimon de Greef, co-author of Poacher – Confessions from the abalone underworld.

This book gives an unprecedented inside view of South Africa’s illicit abalone trade, a lawless underwater treasure hunt for a marine snail, prized as a delicacy in China.

The Green House, R43 Vermont | 17:30 – 19:00

16

U3A Easter Music U3A Overberg’s Easter programme, presented by Johan Radloff, will again consist of music appropriate to what happened at Easter from when Christ entered Jerusalem until the resurrection, under the following headings: Triumphant entry into Jerusalem; First Communion; Struggle and victory of Jesus on the Mount of Olives; Betrayal and Arrest of Jesus; Christ’s Suffering and Crucifixion; Son of God – slain for me. What a love!

Kombi-Nasie Performing artists, Pietman Geldenhuys and Wicus van der Merwe are friends and neighbours who love to chat, joke and sing. Listening to them you’ll relax, forget all your troubles and laugh out loud. Tickets are R160 pp. Book online with itickets.co.za Curro Hermanus | 19:30

17

Graze Farmer’s Market Reduce your carbon footprint and get your fresh veggies – always seasonal, always fresh. Stay for coffee and breakfast. For more info, call Tabby & Alex on 076 243 1930.

Graze Slow Food Café, Stanford | 09:00 – 12:00 Home Industries Market Get your fresh micro-greens, home-processed and home-baked goodies at this family- and pet-friendly market, every Wednesday. New vendors are welcome. Contact Lani on 082 679 7819 or visit www.afdaksrivier.co.za Café Tango & Afdaksrivier Nursery | 09:30 – 12:30 Grape Expectations Spend an evening in the company of Hannes Meyer, winemaker at Lomond Wines. Enjoy three courses of scrumptious food with wines selected by Hannes. It will be an evening to remember! Tickets are R195 pp, available from The Wine Glass. Contact 082 082 0007 to book.

The Wine Glass, 2 Harbour Rd, Hermanus | 18:30 Beginners Meditation Class Let Dr Arien show you how to relax and unwind at will. Bring your own cushion or use the chairs available.

Attendance is free but booking is essential. Contact 067 1166 111 or hermanus@DrArien.co.za Arundel Medical Rooms, Westcliff | 17:30 – 18:00 Hermanus Bird Club The guest speakers at this month’s Bird Club meeting are club members Lester and Cheryll van Groeningen, who will talk about their visit to the Mkhuze Game Reserve. They’ll share their experience of the wealth of Zululand birds that Mkhuze offers.

Come early and enjoy a glass of wine for a donation of R10 per glass. All guests are welcome at no charge.

Fernkloof Hall | 18:00 for 18:30

Friday

19

Pringle Bay Art & Craft Exhibition ‘Diversity – Every Leaf, Every Colour, Every Song’ is the title of this special Easter exhibition hosted by the Pringle Bay Art and Craft Route. The

collection of works by local and guest artists will be a celebration of the fynbos kingdom we are privileged to live in, with some works referencing the recent fires experienced in the area. For more information, contact Lesley Fullard on 082 222 1616. The exhibition will be open daily from 19 – 24 April.

Harold Porter Botanical Garden | 09:00 – 16:00

ART EXHIBITION Harold Porter National Botanical Garden Betty’s Bay 19 - 24 April 2019 09:00 - 16:00 DAILY

DIVERSITY

EVERY LEAF - EVERY COLOUR - EVERY SONG Artists: 082 680 3586 Gardens: 028 272 9311 Easter Sunset Market Don’t miss the special Easter edition of this much-loved, local and lekker outdoor market which brings friends and family, good food and wine, live music, gifts, crafts, books and charities all together on the Market Square, every last Friday of the month. Locally-sourcing vendors who ly the eco-banner high are given preference and every effort is made to keep waste and non-recyclable rubbish to a minimum. We'll keep your toes tapping while your children run and play on the unspoilt Heritage Square. Plenty of seating. (The usual Sunset Market will take place on Friday 26 April.)

Stanford Market Square | 18:00 – 20:00

Saturday

20

Great White MTB & Trail Run Explore the magnificent Walker Bay Fynbos Conservancy trails by choosing between three MTB options (52 km, 32 km or 15 km) and three Trail Run options (21 km, 12 km or 5 km). The picturesque Lomond Wine Estate will be the venue for this Easter Saturday event, with ample shade and entertainment for supporters.

Online entries (www.entryninja.com) close on 17 April 2019. Registration and late entries: Friday 19 April from 17:00 - 19:00 or Saturday 20 April at Lomond Wine Estate. Get all the details on the web page scuttle.co.za/ scuttle-events/ Lomond Wine Estate | 09:00 – 16:00 Runaway Nuns & Retro Dizzy This is garage rockers, Runaway Nuns’ first visit to Hermanus. Join them and Retro Dizzy to celebrate the release of their debut album, Holy Collusion.

Tickets are R80 online (http://qkt.io/ SULjkG) or R100 at the door.

Gecko Bar, Hermanus New Harbour | 20:00 (doors open at 18:00) Ryno Velvet Catch Ryno Velvet’s live performance at this popular night spot. Call 028 313 2137 to book.

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

GOT AN EVENT? Send us an email to events@thevillagenews.co.za or send us a WhatsApp to 067 770 7629.

FREE for community & non-profit organisations R300 for pop-up ads

18 14 | ART

10 April 2019

Artscape - bringing the best to the Overstrand

M

arlene le Roux, CEO of Artscape and activist for people with disabilities, visited Hawston last week and said she is making it her mission to bring Artscape to Hawston this October as part of their annual Rural Outreach Project.

This development is aligned with the work done by the local arts fraternity to ensure that our region is now firmly established on the itinerary of art enthusiasts. Our monthly Hermanus First Fridays, OAK concerts, Hermanus FynArts Festival, Pringle Bay Art & Craft Route and Baardskeerdersbos Art Route all contribute to the diverse arts offering available locally.

The Rural Outreach Project, a partnership between Artscape, Overstrand Municipality, Catapult Foundation and the Association for Persons with Disabilities, aims to bring the best cultural experiences to our communities and to involve our youth in the arts. Marlene emphasised that the collaboration planned for 14 -19 October is not a festival but a cultural collaboration to show that government can play its part in breaking down stereotypes while creating ethical leaders through participation in the organisation of a big production. It is about opening the minds of

Marlene le Roux, CEO of Artscape, with Philip Boyd, former principal Capab dancer, Chantel Louskitt, administrative coordinator of Hermanus FynArts, and Elnora Gillion, Deputy Mayor of the Overstrand. our youth to the potential of what is possible.

Prima Ballerina Assoluta Phyllis Spira OMSG’.

The hosted Artscape delegation included Philip Boyd, principal dancer for Capab for 23 years and now an Overstrand resident. Philip will also present a talk during Hermanus FynArts in June entitled ‘My life with

We are looking forward to the 13th production of the Artscape Rural Outreach Project when Artscape will give Hawston and the Overstrand a taste of the best in theatrical experiences.

– Frieda Lloyd

LIZE ART GALLERY Local artist Lize Smit, who struck out on her own after leaving The Art Gallery last year, is currently exhibiting at The Barefoot Cook in Aberdeen Street. She celebrated the opening of her new gallery on the premises on Thursday evening with an exhibition entitled ‘Into the Light’. Among the many art lovers, family members and friends who attended the opening to wish her well was Lize's mother, the well-known actress Wilna Snyman (above). Lize says the title of her exhibition refers to the new Lize who has taken back her maiden name and left the past behind, while stepping ‘into the light’ with an explosive burst of artistic and spiritual energy. Find Lize Art Gallery at 12 Aberdeen Street, Hermanus.

PHOTOS: Hedda Mittner

ART | 19 15

10 April 2019

Hermanus First Fridays continues to grow The Hermanus First Fridays (HFF) Artwalk has become a much-anticipated event every month that continues to grow in both popularity and size. The latest participant to join the Artwalk is the Hermanus Photographic Society, which exhibits at the premises of Foto First in the Rothnick Croft Building at 155 Main Road.

“The Hermanus Photographic Society is proud to be part of a worldwide initiative to make art and art galleries more accessible to the public and more so in that HFF has a reputation as an artwalk second to none,” said Club President Elizma Fourie. She expressed her thanks to the HFF committee for inviting the club to be part of the artwalk and to Foto First’s owner, Kees van de Coolwijk, for providing the location. “We’ve had great feedback from the artwalkers that visited Foto First on Friday evening and we are looking forward to another successful event on 3 May,” said Elizma.

The Hermanus Photographic Society, which is affiliated to the Photographic Society of South Africa (PSSA) meets on the first Wednesday of every month at the Dutch Reformed Church, Hermanus. Elizma invites anyone who is interested in photography to come along as their guest to the next meeting on 1 May. Contact info@hermanusphoto.co.za or visit their website at www.hermanusphoto.co.za for more information.

- Hedda Mittner

ABOVE: Holly Bellingham-Turner (second from right) was out and about in Harbour Road, where she popped in to Rossouw Modern with her children, Andrew and Sophie. With them are local artist, Obert Jongwe and gallery owner, Jozua Rossouw.

Hermanus Photographic Society committee members David Wilson and Rene Robinson-Dewar welcomed Artwalkers to Foto First during last week’s Hermanus First Fridays.

RIGHT: An artwalker admiring a selection of works by Juanita Oosthuizen, winner of the 2018 Tollman Bouchard Finlayson Art Award, which are on display at Rossouw Modern.

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MINI CHEFS, MEGA FLAVOUR!

Kid-friendly recipes that your little ones will love making.

Chocolate lollies

METHOD

Makes 8

INGREDIENTS

Less than 15 minutes

Decorate with colourful tape, ribbons or stickers.

METHOD

INGREDIENTS

• ¼ box (125g) chocolate cake mix • 1 large egg • 5 tsp (25ml) vegetable oil • ¼ cup (60ml) milk • ½ cup (125ml) Nutella chocolate spread • ¼ cup (60ml) water • Handful mini marshmallows • Cocoa powder, for dusting

• Place cake mix in a bowl.

• Beat egg, oil and milk together for 30 seconds using an electric mixer.

• Add to the cake mix. Beat on low speed for 30 seconds, then beat on high speed for 4 minutes.

• Spoon 2 Tbsp (30ml) batter into four 1½ cup (375ml) capacity mugs.

• Add about 2 Tbsp (30ml) chocolate spread to each.

• Top each with 2 Tbsp (30ml) batter and 1 Tbsp (15ml) water.

• Place one mug at a time on a plate and microwave in a 700W power microwave for a minute on medium. Cake will rise and drop down into mug.

• Remove and top with marshmallows.

• Microwave for a minute more.

• Serve with a dusting of cocoa.

• 2 slabs (150g each) dark, milk or white chocolate, plus extra for decorating • 8 skewers or lolly sticks • Mini marshmallows, sprinkles, sweets or chopped nuts, for decorating

• Line 2 large baking trays with baking paper.

• Place skewers on baking paper, about 10cm apart.

• Melt chocolate in a large heatproof bowl in the microwave, stirring every 30 seconds, until smooth.

• Spoon 2 Tbsp (30ml) melted chocolate over the top of a skewer.

• Flatten chocolate slightly with the back of a spoon and shape into a disc.

• Sprinkle with your preferred decorations.

• Repeat with remaining skewers and chocolate.

• Set in the fridge for about 5 minutes or until chocolate is rm.

• Remove and store in a cool, dry place until ready to serve. *Cook's note: Don’t refrigerate overnight as it may cause a fatty layer to form around the lollies.*

Nutella mug cakes Makes 4 Less than 30 minutes

Easter egg road shards INGREDIENTS

Makes 8 Less than 2 hours

This one's for the chocoholics.

• 5 slabs (80g each) white chocolate, chopped • 5 slabs (80g each) dark chocolate, chopped • 6 marshmallow Easter eggs, snipped into chunks • 1 packet (125g) mini chocolate eggs • Vanilla and chocolate ice cream, for serving

Easter nest cupcakes INGREDIENTS

• ½ cup (125g) butter, softened • 2 cups (260g) icing sugar, sifted • 3 Tbsp (45ml) cocoa powder • 12 PnP bakery cupcakes • 1 Flake chocolate • Handful speckled egg sweets

METHOD

Makes 12

• Beat butter, icing sugar and cocoa powder together using an electric mixer on low speed until incorporated.

Increase speed and beat until smooth.

• Spread icing over cupcakes.

• Crumble over Flake and gently roll edges of icing into chocolate to form a nest shape.

• Place a few sweets in the centre of each cupcake to complete the nest.

• Serve.

Less than 15 minutes

A simple and quick way to jazz up cupcakes.

HERMANUS 028 312 1137

METHOD

• Line a large baking tray with baking paper.

• Place white chocolate in a glass bowl and melt over a pot of simmering water.

• Pour into prepared baking tray. Set aside to harden.

• Melt dark chocolate over a pot of simmering water.

• Pour evenly over white chocolate layer.

• Sprinkle marshmallow and chocolate eggs over chocolate. Set aside to cool and harden.

• Snap into shards and serve with scoops of ice cream.

10 April 2019

21 17

www.thevillagenews.co.za

L2L raises record amount for Camphill School Writer Hedda Mittner

I

’m in awe of how much the Overstrand does for its people. This is truly a caring community,” said Ald Sakkie Franken, Mayor of the Overberg District Municipality, at the official handover ceremony of the Lighthouse 2 Lighthouse Ladies Walk. “Please don’t stop; keep doing what you’re doing as the need is great,” he urged.

There was great anticipation and excitement at the handover, as the chosen charities of the 2019 L2L Ladies Walk waited to hear the exact amounts that were raised by the 120 ladies who participated in this year’s event. The main charity was Camphill School Hermanus, with the Overstrand Association for Persons with Disabilities (OAPD) and Overberg Wheelchair Association (OWA) as the runner-up charities.

The handover celebrations were hosted on Wednesday evening, 3 April, at Die Plaaskombuis in Hemel-en-Aarde Valley – an apt setting as the owner of the restaurant, Nita Lotter, had participated in the first L2L Walk in 2006 and several thereafter. Among the guests were

HERMANUS / EASTCLIFF

Deputy Mayor, Elnora Gillion, L2L patron, Nicolette Johnson and her husband Robert, and representatives from L2L’s main sponsor, SPAR Western Cape, including Elsabé van Zyl (advertising manager) and Andrew Francis (general manager of TBWA), and Bern van Niekerk (SPAR Gateway, Eastcliff, Kleinmond and Gansbaai) and his wife, Estelle (also an L2L walker).

The L2L Committee, chaired by Ronelle van Zyl, went to great lengths to thank each and every individual, business and organisation that supported the walk this year. As a non-profit organisation, L2L is run entirely by female volunteers who do not benefit or receive any funds for their efforts. Each registered walker needs to raise a minimum of R4 000, but the ladies have managed to increase their targets over the years.

• • •

4 Bedrooms and 4.5 bathrooms Designers kitchen Spacious reception areas & outside entertainment area

Alecia 083 359 3643 R319 000

GANSBAAI / PERLEMOENBAAI

PERMANENTE SEESIG; 200M VANAF SEE • 200m Stap- of ry-afstand van oseaan • Ook Stapafstand vanaf Stanford Cove • Huis in mark-oorkant straat-@ R2 650 000!

Web Ref: 748190

announced that a total of R677 677.39 – the largest amount in the history of L2L – had been raised by the walkers for Camphill School.

Jeanne-Marie Botha, principal of the school, and Genevieve Linney, PR officer and fundraiser, expressed their sincere gratitude and said they commended the spirit of the L2L ladies.

“You are such an inspiration to us all and it was

There were tears of joy when it was finally

R8 800 000

Web Ref: 1246190

ABOVE: Ronelle van Zyl (L2L chairperson), with Jeanne-Marie Botha (Camphill School principal) and Genevieve Linney (Camphill School PRO & fundraiser) holding their cheque, Les Clarke (veteran walker and highest individual fundraiser) and Nicolette Johnson (L2L patron).

This year was no exception, with Les Clark, the oldest walker and a veteran of 12 L2L Walks, raising an astonishing amount of just over R49 000. The 78-year-old Les received a standing ovation and quipped that she would continue participating in the annual 100 km coastal hike “for as long as my legs will carry me”.

FAMILY HOME IN PRESTIGIOUS EASTCLIFF

• Stand 1338m² – Subdivision possible • Quality finishes • Stunning views of golf course and mountain

PHOTO: Taylum Meyer

• Erf “agter” ons - verder weg van see -R375 000!

• Ons Erf sal haar nie weer herhaal nie • Prop 24 verwysing: 107205367

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STUNNING & STYLISH HOME

• Situated in the heart of Bettys bay • 5 Large bedrooms, main en-suite • Family bathroom

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• • •

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HOME SITUATED IN SECURE ESTATE • Spacious & Comfortable • TV room

Web Ref: 1257712

Marco Dunston and Julius Booysen from OAPD and Val Kwaan from OWA were equally delighted to receive their donation of R50 000 as the runner-up charities.

R4 350 000

ROOI ELS

DESIGNED HOME WITH SPECTACULAR VIEWS

Spacious open plan kitchen Double automated garage Sensational views

HERMANUS / SANDBAAI

• Large open plan living area & kitchen • 3 Bedrooms, 2 Bathrooms

an honour to hang those medals around your necks at the Danger Point Lighthouse finishing line,” said Genevieve.

• Patio with built in braai • Double garage with direct access to home

Ronel 083 406 8952

• Entertainers dream • Huge open reception areas • Main bedroom and living area on ground floor • 2 Self-contained units as guest rooms upstairs • Beautiful indoor garden • Immaculate finishes

Web Ref: 1212600 HERMANUS / ONRUS RIVER

Jacques 083 301 9618 R1 860 000

VIEWS & A LOT OF POTENTIAL • Situated on a large stand • 2 Bathrooms • In a quiet cul de sac • Large kitchen, open plan living & dining area • 2 Bedrooms • Large balcony with beautiful sea view

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Ronel 083 406 8952

22 18

10 April 2019

www.thevillagenews.co.za

Dr Arien van der Merwe is a medical doctor, specialist holistic health counsellor and stress management consultant, corporate health & wellness service provider and author. Her rooms are at the Arundel Medical Centre (opposite the Mediclinic) and she also consults in Somerset West on Mondays.

MY WELLNESS Youthful Living

Prepare for autumn and winter with nature’s own pharmacy that dry mucosal linings, gently; have no side effects; and support the immune system.

By Dr Arien

N

ature has remedies that treat allergies, colds, flu and other upper respiratory infections.

Here are some well-known, proven and trusted guidelines:

• Listen to your body and rest because a hectic lifestyle prevents a tired immune system from fighting invaders – and stay in bed.

• Don’t exercise while sick, or during recovery.

• Drink liquids – filtered water, fresh fruit and vegetable juice, or freshly-made soup.

• With a towel over your head, inhale the steam from eucalyptus or peppermint oil in a bowl of boiling water. This loosens phlegm and hydrates the mucosal lining of the airways, while disinfecting the environment. Other aromatherapy oils to try are lavender, grapefruit, rosemary and tea tree oil (put drops in a burner, or the bath, or in a carrier oil for a soothing back-andshoulder massage).

• Increase your intake of antioxidant food supplements – bioflavonoids and vitamins A and C, which should be part of a comprehensive antioxidant combination.

• Use medicinal herbs – Echinacea and goldenseal act as natural antibiotics. They are also decongestants

Double-blind, placebo-controlled studies suggest Echinacea purpurea shortens the duration of colds and flu while making symptoms less severe – and can even stop a pending cold in its tracks.

Drink two or three Echinacea flowers, steeped in hot water, with honey at the first sign of a cold. Repeat three times a day until symptoms improve.

Other herbs for the natural treatment of colds and flu are astragalus, lime blossom, sage, elder flower, thyme and liquorice root. Most help reduce mucous, aid mucosal-lining recovery, are effective against viruses, bacteria, fungi and parasites – and strengthen the immune system.

Feverfew (Chrysanthemum parthenium), a fever-reducing substance and painkiller, helps migraines and muscle spasm. Those taking anticoagulants such as warfarin and aspirin should be careful when using feverfew - come off it gradually to avoid rebound blood clotting. For a persistent cough wild cherry bark comes highly recommended. Herbs with purely-medicinal properties should be used with caution, and often under supervision of a qualified health practitioner.

Further remedies include pineapple

extract that contains bromelain, an anti-inflammatory with mucolytic and antibacterial properties; and the quercetin in garlic and onions accelerates recovery of the mucosa after infection, they also have a high content of the amino acid, N-acetyl-cystein.

Ginger, turmeric, cinnamon, mustard powder and cayenne pepper are anti-inflammatories - good for phlegm, sticky mucous, fever, joint and muscle aches and pains. They also have antiviral and antibacterial properties, and improve circulation to ward off any chill.

Recommended cold- and flu-fighting minerals to consider are zinc lozenges that soothe sore throats, and zinc nasal spray for a runny nose, as well as calcium in an amino acid chelation (with magnesium).

An effective winter warmer for cold hands and feet: Ginkgo biloba – available on its own in a herbal infusion or as part of our heart-brain-body support antioxidant supplement.

Winterproof your diet and charge your immune system with food.

Wholesome soup – with the rainbow colours of vegetables, legumes, barley and soup mix (red, brown and green lentils, split peas) – help build a healthy body. To this add garlic, turmeric, mushrooms and lean meat.

Seasonal fruit, hot chocolate pure,

raw cocoa powder and live-culture yogurt or kefir should also be included in your daily diet.

Apart from relief from colds and flu, there are various herbs and spices (with other medicinal, aromatic and culinary properties) that can be grown in a wellness food garden or kept in a spice cupboard as home remedies. Ensure dried herbs and spices smell fresh. If they’ve been in a cupboard for several years and smell dusty, they won’t have any healing properties – replace them.

As a rule, herbs that have medicinal, aromatic and/or culinary properties are safe to use in your home. An edible herbal patch is a bonus for health.

Plant ideas for your own healing garden include: • Bulbine frutescens (wrongly called barbinella or bulbinella) and Aloe ferox – break off the stem, press out the jelly and apply it to burns, sunburn, eczema, insect bites, cuts and bruises for immediate relief.

• Onions, garlic and chives in soups, stews and salads for all-over, restorative properties for heart and immune system.

• Carrots, cucumber, lettuce, spinach, pumpkin, broccoli, tomatoes are all gifts from nature to enhance every cell and system in our bodies.

• Rosemary, thyme and basil balance and fortify the immune system – and enhance food.

• Calendula (gousblom) flowers steeped in hot water and cooled down will rinse out painful or infected eyes.

Remember that cinnamon is beneficial for those with high blood sugar (diabetes).

Recipe for immediate relief from colds, flu, inflammation, sore muscles, fever, headache, thickened mucous and sinusitis: Mix a pinch each of ginger, cinnamon and turmeric with a little lemon juice and honey in hot water – it makes for a delightful spicy drink. (You might even add a tot of medicinal brandy). If the cold is quite serious add clove of fresh garlic, pinch of mustard powder, ½ pinch of cayenne pepper - and a pinch each of sage and thyme if the mucous is yellow or green. Drink this regularly until you feel better.

More on winter, flu and natural remedies in my book Health & Happiness (eBook from our online shop, or from the office) and on my website: https://www.drarien. co.za/prepare-for-winter/ Contact 067 1166 111 or Hermanus@DrArien.co.za.

Visit www.DrArien.co.za

Natural Integrative Medicine Consultations 55 Main Road, Hermanus

HEARING PROBLEMS

Free Screening Hearing Test Shop 10 First Floor Station Square (New Woolworths Centre), Main Road, Hermanus

Franco Coetzee 028 312 1307 info@hpractice.co.za

DR MICKEY FAUEL & DR HANRE ZEELIE WE OFFER ALL TYPES OF DENTISTRY INCLUDING IMPLANTS DONE DAILY BY DR MICKEY FAUEL ORAL HYGIENIST | BLEACHING ON SITE DENTAL LAB VISITING ORTHODONTIST DR D MURPHY

Tel: 028 312 1213 Emergency 084 791 3721 Nood Mon-Fri 08:00 - 17:00 mcfauel@mweb.co.za | jpzeelie@telkomsa.net www.tooth-implant.co.za | www.whalesmile.co.za www.hermanusdentalstudio.co.za

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

brenda@hermanuspharmacy.co.za | Fax: 028 312 2681 Hours: Mon-Fri 08:30 - 18:30 Sat 08:00 - 13:00 & 18:30 - 19:30 Sundays & Public Holidays 10:00 - 12:00 & 18:30 - 19:30 Clinic hours: Mon-Thurs 08:30 - 17:00 Fri 08:30 - 15:00

Health is our Natural State

Dr Arien van der Merwe (as seen on DStv: VIA & Real Health) • Helping you manage renegade inammation, the root cause of all disease • Natural remedies as physiological support for any disease or ailment – after all, health is our natural state!

• Stress management and relaxation training • Weight Control Clinic (since 1974) • Workplace wellness interventions • Timeless DNA/youthful living for longevity • Training, courses, talks and workshops

Talk Tuesday 16 Apr (please book in time as space is limited!): 5:30 for 6pm – 7pm. Prepare for Winter using Nature’s own Pharmacy - Support your Respiratory & Immune Systems, and manage symptoms, naturally! Cost: R150 Dr Arien (MBChB ASCHP MISMA) is a natural, holistic, integrative medical doctor who has been practicing in this eld since 1995. She is a specialist holistic counsellor and an experienced public speaker, facilitator and trainer. Dr Arien is an internationally published author of countless books & training manuals. She also developed a number of accredited online health and wellness courses.

Arundel Medical Rooms, c/o Church & Arundel St (opp. Mediclinic).

Tel. 0671166111. www.DrArien.co.za

Hermanus Pharmacies/Clinics

Emergency after hours tel: 028 312 4039

Alex Grant Pharmacy/Clinic Gateway Centre, Hermanus Tel: 028 312 4847

arnold@alexgrantpharmacy.co.za | Fax: 028 312 4848 Hours: Mondays-Fridays 08:00 - 17:30 Saturdays 08:00 - 13:00 Clinic hours: Mon-Fri 08:30-17:00 Sat 08:00-13:00

10 April 2019

23 19

www.thevillagenews.co.za

Down Mexico way, a naturopathic journey Writer Elaine Davie

M

any Hermanus residents and regular visitors will know popular father and daughter holistic health duo, Hannes and Hannelie de Beer and will be sad to hear that they will shortly be leaving town. Some may be particularly anxious about where they will be able to obtain the Willow range of health supplements which they stocked.

The good news is that they are already available at the C Beyond Health store in the Hemel-en-Aarde Village, owned by Ferdi Appelgryn and Charmaine Smith. While Hannes and Hannelie are incredibly excited about their forthcoming adventure, starting in Mexico in May, they are delighted to know that their clients will be in good hands at C Beyond Health.

But why Mexico? “Well, why not Mexico”, is Hannelie’s retort. It turns out that especially Mexico, but indeed most Central and South American countries are extremely advanced in alternative medicine regimes. In fact, herbal medicine in Mexico is mainstream, and at the leading medical schools in the country, allopathic and natural medicine are completely integrated. Hannelie is going there to deepen her knowledge and expand her horizons and Hannes will continue writing his popular alternative health manuals which provide clients with information on a variety of medical conditions using natural health supplements.

Presumably, if you’ll be spending an extended period of time in Latin America, a love of chilis is an essential requirement. Fortunately, both Hannes and Hannelie are fans. But what about the language? Neither

A

Holistic health practitioners Hannes and Hannelie de Beer (left), take a break from packing for Mexico to discuss the handover of the Willow range of herbal supplements with Charmaine Smith and Ferdi Appelgryn (right) of C Beyond Health.

PHOTO: Taylum Meyer of them speaks Spanish, but when needs must… They’ll both be doing a crash course and continuing to pick up the language as they go along.

Although Hannes had started dabbling in natural medicine in the 1980s, when he retired from banking in 1992, he decided to give it his all and he and Hannelie have been running their own health shop in Hermanus for the past six and a half years.

“It’s all in the genes,” says Hannes. “I think my mother owned every book on natural medicine that had ever been written and could recite the whole of MIMS (a comprehensive list of medicines, used by doctors as a reference). And then, of course, her father before her was also a herbalist.”

It was because of his great respect for natural medicines that he and Hannelie were delighted to receive approval to become stockists of the Willow range of herbal supplements, manufactured in Port Elizabeth. “It’s not a matter of buying a franchise,”

explains Hannes, it’s actually a privilege to be selected as a stockist of these excellent products and the manufacturers provide a wonderful system of on-going support for those who are.” According to him, they produce the largest range of single supplements in South Africa, which fills all the gaps, and the bonus is that the price is good.

“You won’t believe the number of glowing testimonials I have received from customers from all over South Africa and abroad for these products”, adds Hannes. “The point is that they really work.” One of the factors that contributes to their effectiveness is that they are totally ‘clean’, which means that they contain no synthetics, no preservatives and no fillers. As he says, a visit to their factory in PE highlights the fact that they take no short cuts; everything is organised and precise.

It is sad that in South Africa with its centuries-old tradition of herbal heal-

ing and more than 2 000 recognised medicinal plant species, greater effort has not been put into developing, analysing and writing up their healing properties. Hannelie believes this is because Big Pharm puts so much pressure on our health authorities. Indeed, one of the country’s few degree courses in natural health, at Stellenbosch University, is to be discontinued because they cannot access sufficient well-qualified lecturers.

In contrast, she is looking forward to exploring the state of well-being in some of the poorest countries in the world where a 5 000-year-long history of natural health care is fully supported by government funding.

This is intimately linked, of course, to the unprocessed and unrefined food they tend to grow and eat.

Because an essential prerequisite of holistic natural healing is viewing the client as an unique, fully-rounded human being, not just a set of random physical symptoms, Hannes and

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Hannelie have built a close personal relationship with their clients over the years. It is, therefore, with great relief that they are handing them over to Charmaine and Ferdi at C Beyond Health, together with the Willow range of supplements, for which they have been approved as stockists.

Continuity of customer service is absolutely critical, they feel, and they have full confidence in the pedigree of Charmaine and Ferdi to carry on where they have left off.

On their side, the C Beyond Health team have expanded their offering to include organic produce and fermented foods and are excited now to add the impressive range of Willow products, which fully complements their existing suite of natural products. Furthermore, the diagnostic and healing modalities they offer their clients, including the Sevenpointfive live blood analysis system, together with wellness and life coaching, are completely in line with the De Beers’ approach.

The latter will still remain actively engaged via facebook with their many clients around the world, but will have no hesitation in referring them to C Beyond Health, when personal attention is advised.

So with their bags packed and their visas at the ready Hannes and Hannelie are tying up loose ends before flying off to Puerto Vallarta, the first stop on their Latin-American adventure. Then they’ll play it by ear as they work their way South. “When we get to Chile,” laughs Hannelie, “perhaps then we’ll think about whether we’re ready to come back, or not.”

For further information, C Beyond Health can be contacted on Charmaine@Cbeyondhealth.com or 083 274 4419.

1st Floor, Arundel Medical Place C/o Church and Arundel Street, Hermanus olivia@hermanushearing.co.za

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10 April 2019

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MY HOME Plan your building budget or take the financial pain for ‘investment purposes’ and then, when the timing is right, venturing forth into the world of a ‘home builder’. In other cases, it is simply because after searching endlessly for the right house, you decide that what is available does not suit some or all of your needs, so the next option is to build.

By Stuart Cohen

M

ost people will go through life avoiding the idea of building a house simply because of the horror stories they have heard about the pitfalls, stress, frustrations, delays and seemingly-endless negative aspects purportedly experienced by others.

Contrary to popular belief, building your own home can also be one of the most creative, inspiring and challenging experiences which, when over, will leave you with exactly what you want in a ‘dream’ home, as long as you have the patience, the right mindset and, above all, the type of personality that can deal with the day-to-day activities that building a home brings with it.

The reasons people build are more varied than one would expect. In most cases it is a side effect of having bought a plot at some point in time

Once you have taken that decision, your choices then become either to build off plan in a development or to embrace the extensive process of engaging an architect and starting what will be one of the most interesting, energy-sapping and relationship-testing journeys of your life. The decision you take is often based on whether you are looking to scale up for a new and growing family or scale down as you head towards retirement and decluttering your life after decades of accumulating ‘stuff ’.

When you head down the building road, you will hear many people talk about how much longer their build took than expected, or how difficult it was to manage the liaison with all the different parties involved. Add to that the way-over-budget syndrome

which seems to be standard with most builds – and you could be justified in putting the process into reverse and forgetting that it ever started.

They key for this entire activity to be an enjoyable and rewarding one lies in one word – planning. There are so many facets to a build that, unless you are in tune with all of them, slippage can start early on and if it gets out of hand it seldom recovers.

Your planning must start with your budget and no matter what all the experienced builders and architects – and those in the know – say, if you don’t allow for some ‘fat’ or contingency allowance, you will feel the pain no matter what. There are hidden costs everywhere, some of which only raise their heads near the end of your build or are deeply entrenched in what builders and architects call the PC list.

In the normal building context, PC stands for Provisional Cost but what it really means is a wild guestimate of what someone thinks your personal

taste in finishes might cost – and that is your first budget awakening moment. When you consider that a builder’s estimate can vary from an architect’s estimate by as much as 300%, make sure you know from the outset what you’re in for.

Gaining an understanding of what your outlay will be – sooner than later – is crucial for you to bring your build in on budget, if such a thing is at all possible… What this really means is that you need to be doing your finishes, groundwork and price investigations very early in the process in order to get a handle on what your costs will be.

While you knew there would be fees from the NHBRC (National Home Builders Registration Council), no one could put a figure to it until the day the builder registered the build.

Make sure you have a Valium or a stiff Scotch at hand – not so much because of the costs involved (although that does warrant a sip or five) but more about how they justify the fees they charge for what doesn’t appear to be much work on their part. So

be it, you pay because you have no choice.

Don’t underestimate the time it takes to connect your plot to the electricity and water resources because that is key to planning the next steps.

Delays become a daily part of the build and no matter what you do, you must factor those into your plan from the outset.

We all know there will be costs for architects, builders, engineers and so forth, but do you fully understand the extent to which the costs mount up before you have even dug a crud of soil?

A wise man will do his homework first and get to as accurate a figure as he can, to know what his budget can cover and how far he can stretch it.

But no matter what, a stretch it will be, unless you have unlimited funds.

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Beached turtle LIVING NATURE hatchlings need help Abalone poaching environmental or social crisis?

By Anina Lee Whale Coast Conservation

A

balone poaching is rife in the Overstrand. Everyone knows that. However, it is just the tip of the iceberg of a social disaster.

Abalone poaching is often the only way poachers can provide for their families. Before democracy, licenced subsistence fishing was a way of life.

Fish, kreef, abalone, alikreukel were all harvested. After democracy, many of these licences were “redistributed”, often to people who had never fished before. Many traditional fishers were left without income and no alternative skills. A combination of desperation and defiance drove them to subsistence poaching.

Enter the syndicates from the Far East where serving very expensive abalone is a status symbol, in a culture where status is all. The price of abalone in Hong Kong reached R2 000 per kilogram. Where there is money to be made, crooks will lourish. The crime syndicates soon spread to Southern Africa, where small-scale poachers were drawn into a web of crime, gangs and drugs. Poachers were often paid in drugs as currency, forcing them to become drug pushers to realise an income.

A fascinating and insightful book on this complex topic, Poacher! Confessions from the abalone underworld was co-authored by Kimon de Greef and Shuhood Abader (not his real name).

The book opens with all the drama of a thriller. Poacher Shuhood is at the helm of a boat with a huge haul of perlemoen on board as they race

ashore from a sanctuary within the military base at Langebaan. But things begin to go horribly wrong.

What lies ahead includes chases on road and sea, gunshots, lashing lights, clashes with police, shark attacks, almost-fatal dives, near drownings and, finally, deaths at sea – mostly due to inexperience and inferior equipment.

In prison, Shuhood Abader wrote about his life as a perlemoen poacher. When he met freelance journalist Kimon de Greef, a fruitful collaboration led to the publication of their book Poacher!

Kimon de Greef first became interested in abalone poaching through his Master’s thesis on the subject. In the book he provides insight into the effect the abalone trade has on the poachers themselves.

De Greef succeeds in evoking empathy for the poacher by revealing his humanity. As a twice-married man with seven children to support, Shuhood is deeply committed to his family and Islam and is always in search of a better way – trying to escape “the bind that had come to define his life”.

Shuhood shows tremendous courage and willingness to take inconceivable risks, knowing that he could very well be killed in the process. Never one to resist a challenge, he enjoyed the novelty and daring involved during the fifteen years of poaching that he describes as “a chapter of my life as a man who chose abalone poaching to provide for my family.”

Under the apartheid regime, Shuhood’s family was uprooted from Simon’s Town and dumped in Ocean View, a lawless township with no street lighting, law enforcement or public telephones. Deprived of their historically legitimate right to harvest from the sea, they shared the same fate as thousands of other displaced families compelled to redesign their

existence around lucrative poaching activities.

Interestingly, the illegal stripping of marine resources actually started with whites before coloured and black communities got involved.

For several years their initial target had been crayfish until international syndicates pushed the price of abalone up to well beyond the reach of local consumers. The lure of big money then became the impetus for poachers to switch from kreef to abalone.

According to a recent report from Traffic, over 50 000 tonnes of abalone has been exported to Hong Kong, amounting to an astounding 130 million abalone.

But Poacher is not simply a book about a vicious black market. It also charts a compelling portrait of Shuhood and the forces at work that prevail at grass-roots level for him and the huge fraternity of poachers.

With hindsight he sees the stark reality of the racket, saying, “it makes you think – who benefited? Probably the middlemen and the Chinese”.

As the winter months approach, the incidence of juvenile turtle strandings increases as cold and rough seas wash ashore. They are often in a weak condition, hypothermic and suffering from dehydration.

Residents are asked to keep a lookout for these beached turtle hatchlings. The first thing to remember is not to put the turtles back in the water, as they need rehabilitation urgently and have to be kept warm and dry.

Residents are advised to place rescued hatchlings on a towel and into a container, such as a five-litre ice cream tub with breathing holes; do not put water or sand in the container; and make a note of exactly where, when and at what time the turtle was found.

The Overstrand Municipality, in collaboration with the South African Shark Conservancy, will ensure the turtles are temporarily housed until relocation to the Two Oceans Aquarium in Cape Town, where they will be rehabilitated until they are able to fend for themselves.

Drop-off points include: • Overstrand Fire Brigade in Mussel Street, Hermanus Industria; • South African Shark Conservancy, Old Harbour, Hermanus.

Phone: 028 312 3029 or e-mail: meag@sharkconservancy.org; • African Penguin and Seabird Sanctuary in Gansbaai.

Phone: 072 598 7117 or e-mail: penguin@apss.org.za; • Overstrand Municipality’s Environmental Management Section.

Phone: 028 316 3724 (o/h) or the Control Room: 028 313 8000/8111 or Emergency Control Room: 028 312 2400 (a/h) - or phone Tarron Dry 083 366 9490

Poacher demonstrates that, apart from the racial and financial inequality that prevails in South Africa, there are many organisations which, instead of stopping poaching, are riddled with corruption. These include the police, fisheries department and national parks service. In our befuddled legal system, convictions are rare. The ultimate irony of auctioning off confiscated abalone to the poaching syndicates speaks volumes about a state that appears to have little interest in putting a stop to poaching.

Poacher is a brave collaboration between an investigative journalist and a convicted poacher. The co-authors reach fair and honest compromises between journalistic duty and the need to protect Shuhood’s anonymity. It is a fascinating book.

Kimon de Greef, co-author of the book Poacher! Confessions from the abalone underworld, is the guest speaker at Whale Coast Conservation on Tuesday 16 April at 17h30 at the Green House.

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MY SPORT Novices taste the thrill of casting a line By Tony O'Hagan

A

n introductory, hands-on course in fly fishing, aimed at novices and beginners, had 25 participants casting flies with relative ease into a picturesque dam on Sumaridge Wine Estate in the Hemel-en-Aarde Valley last week.

The workshop, hosted by the Hermanus Fly Fishing Club (HFFC), covered the basics of requisite gear, setting up and rigging rods, as well as the basics of casting. It was led by Cheryl Heyns, former captain of the Ladies' Protea Fly Fishing team, who was assisted by experienced club members Charlie Jenkins, Kerry and Tim Tindall, and Ian Heyns who is the current HFFC champion.

With one-on-one attention, attendees found the workshop beneficial and inspiring – and

requests were made for follow-up sessions so they could build on the newly-acquired skills.

The club is fortunate to have Cheryl, the bearer of an impressive curriculum vitae, at the helm of these skills-training sessions. She is a former Protea’s captain who took part in multiple international competitions, as well as a former president of the South African Fly Fishing Association. She also was vice president of the South African Sports Angling and Casting Federation.

The many flytiers interested in improving their skills, and beginners wanting to learn this art, should email Club Secretary Jo Botha at hffc.jo@gmail.com

10 April 2019

Overberg hosts karate championship The Tenshinkan Karate South Africa (TKSA) Western Cape National Gashuku, Grading and Championship was held over three days from 22 - 24 March. Kyoshi Attie Coetzer, 8th Dan and Deputy Chief Instructor of TKSA, led the Gashuku (training camp) on Friday 22 March.

The grading was performed by Hanshi Hans Haupt, 9th Dan and Chief Instructor of TKSA and for the Western World. The National Championship was held on the Saturday and Sunday, when the participants had a special beach training session with instruction from Hanshi Hans Haupt.

Although there have been TKSA Western Cape National Championships held in the past, this event was the very first of its kind to be held in the Overberg District. TKSA hopes to turn this into an annual event, and the planning for next year has already begun.

The ages of the approximately 40 participants who came from all over South Africa to compete, ranged from 6 - 54 years. Judging was done by a referee, Shihan-Dai Cindy-Lee Ludick (5th Dan, South Gauteng) who was assisted by four judges – Michael and Kevin Whiteman (both 2nd Dan, South Gauteng) and Remmert and Annemarie Steyn (both 1st Dan, Overberg).

Tenshinkan Karate Overberg would like to thank all the sponsors who assisted in making this event a great success. Special thanks to Food Lover’s Market Hermanus, Sonic Wifi, Wine Barrel @ Blue Bottle Liquors, The Restaurant at Gabrielskloof, Werner’s Butchery and Datastoor. We also thank Kleinmond Lodge for giving special rates to the participants who travelled from far to take part in this event.

-Annemarie Steyn

The next club event will be Open Day on 28 April at Zuiderkruis Dam. It is one of the highlights on the club calendar – a family affair, open to the public, with morning fishing followed by a braai and prize giving.

Details are available from the club secretary.

The following students from Tenshinkan Karate Overberg won medals at the championship: (back row from left): Sempai Annemarie Steyn (ShoDan), Izaan Steyn (Bronze Kata, Gold Kumite), Cara Coetsee (Silver Kata, Gold Kumite), Francè Saayman (Bronze Kata, Gold Kumite), Christa Rossouw (Silver Kata, Bronze Kumite), Stiaan Fourie (Silver Kumite), Arno Theunissen (Gold Kata, Bronze Kumite), Sempai Remmert Steyn (ShoDan), (middle) Kai Kiessling (Bronze kata, Gold Kumite), Jayden Julies (Silver Kata, Gold Kumite), Rohan Steyn (Gold Kata, Silver Kumite), Kian Theunissen (Gold Kata), Franco Kriel (Bronze Kata, Silver Kumite), (front) Joeke Rossouw (Gold Kata, Gold Kumite), Marthinus Groenewald (Silver Kata, Silver Kumite), Max Calitz (Gold Kata) and Baileigh Emin (Silver Kata, Silver Kumite).

PHOTOS: Paul Botma

10 April 2019

Putting Pirate

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A world champion in our midst

By Julian Shaw

W

e have suddenly leapt into April and are hurtling towards winter again.

Life at Hermanus Golf Club has two distinct seasons - summer and winter. Summer is so hectic that we have little time to do much but keep up with the traffic through the course. Winter is the opposite, which gives us some breathing space and time to relax a little.

I have been a PGA professional for more than 25 years, given more than 30 000 lessons and seen many youngsters come and go.

However, we have one 16-year-old who may be the real deal. Meet Sam Simpson - golfer extraordinaire. He is focused, pleasant, slightly introverted and has just won the South African Junior (U19) Stroke Play Championship at Humewood Golf Club in Port Elizabeth.

Anyone who knows Humewood is aware that it can blow a hurricane there, which it did.

Sam, however, recorded rounds of 69, 68, 69, 69 to win by 3 on -13, that is 13 under par in terrible conditions against the best U19s in the country.

He went on to the Match Play Tournament that is part of the week-long competition and lost in the finals on the 37th hole. He is now number one junior in the country. I have seen many aspiring golfers with fame and fortune

Scores at a glance SATURDAY ALTOGETHER 30 MARCH 4BBB Stableford South Course 1st: Louis Bester & John Ruddy 49 2nd: Peter Richardson & Cheryl Richardson 45 North Course 1st: Duncan Fletcher & Baldy Baldwin 45 c/i 2nd: Terri Sulley & Elise Nykamp 45 c/o East Course 1st: Pat van Renen & Barbie James 45 2nd: Andre Sherriff & David Bunn 44 Hole in One on the 4th: Peter Cawdry

in their eyes - only to be disappointed. Sam has a remarkable attitude and work ethic and I make a prediction that we are going to see a lot of this young man. I asked him what his immediate goal was. His response was to play for South Africa in the President’s Cup. I believe a junior team is included.

Keep it up Sam – while you enjoy the game and work hard there is every reason to believe that you will reach the stars. Sam has a younger brother, Tim, who is hot on his brother’s footsteps.

Dr Steyn van Riet collects the Barbour Cup Last week we played our normal men’s Wednesday competition, but this time it was a trophy event – the Barbour Cup. The format was an individual stableford and the cup was only for players over 65. The Barbour Cup was presented to the club by Hugh Barbour in 1953 – that’s almost 70 years ago. This year saw Dr Steyn van Riet, with a credible 37 points, take the title and lift the cup.

Steyn van Riet, winner of the Barbour Cup, with club captain Albert Streicher.

Goodbye, Ron Woulidge A sad note - and a reminder that life, friends and family are ever so precious – was the passing of Ron Woulidge. He was always positive, supported the local community, employed a caddy when he played and contributed to the betterment of people around him.

Have a memorable week – and play the ball as it lies.

Julz and the team

UNITED CHURCH HERMANUS

LADIES TUESDAY 2 APRIL Ladies medal and putts 43 players Silver division winner - Emma Hayter 88 gross, nett 74 Silver division best gross Cheryl Richardson 83 Bronze division winner - Miriam Squires - 93 gross, nett 70 Bronze division best gross Sally du Toit – 90 MEN’S WEDNESDAY 3 APRIL Individual stableford 128 players Winners: East course - Steyn van Riet 37 points North course - Trevor Edwards 37 points South course - Clayton Burger 40 points Best gross Louis Bester 72

Sixteen-year-old Sam Simpson, golfer extraordinaire.

Services 14th April

08:30 Ken Jackson 10:00 James Gray 09:45 Lighthouse Kids & GEN-Z YOUTH In the Upper Room EASTER OPPORTUNITIES Mon – Wed. 15-17 April 06.30pm Holy Week Services Thurs. 18 April 19:00pm Tenebrae Service Fri. 19 April 08:30 & 10:00am Good Friday Service Sun. 21 April 08:30 & 10:00am Easter Sunday services both in the hall & church 028 312 2717 | www.uchermanus.com C/O Lord Roberts Rd & Royal St, Hermanus

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BENTLEY - grew up at the HAWS cattery and has been there for more than 2 years. He's getting sad because all his buddies are being adopted. Isn't there a loving home out there for this sweet and gentle cat?

CUPCAKE - one of the "fabulous teens" who got left behind because there were too many kittens needing a home. Now about 5 months old and an exceptionally sweet cat who loves other cats and people.

MIMI is one of the youngest felines up for adoption. She, together with her siblings and their cat mother, was fostered by one of our volunteers from a very early age and is used to people. She's a very sweet and playful kitty.

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MY SCHOOL

World Schools Rugby Festival Writer & Photographer Taylum Meyer

match a team won, they received two points for their side (Team SA or Team Rest of the World).

H

ermanus High School first team rugby players, Tarek Smith (grade 11), Tiaan Hechter and SJ Herholdt (grade 12) had the honour of participating in the second annual World Schools Rugby Festival (WSRF) which took place from 25 - 30 March at Paul Roos Gymnasium in Stellenbosch.

The festival invited the best schoolboy rugby players in the world to participate. Ten teams that represented Team SA competed against ten teams from Team Rest of the World.

The festival started with a teambuilding day on 25 March and the matches ran from 26 - 30 March. There were five matches played on each day, meaning that each team played two matches in the festival. For each

Players for the event were scouted by the festival organisers from the start of the year at school rugby games.

It was at Oakdale Rugby Week from 16 - 20 March that Tarek, Tiaan and SJ were told by their Hermanus High coaches that they had been selected to play in the WSRF – if they wanted to participate.

Tarek, Tiaan and SJ were eager to go and were put into team Africa Pacific Dragons, with players from New Zealand and parts of South Africa. “We were taught how to do the haka and we performed it before each match.

It really amped us up and intimidated the opposing teams,” said Tiaan. Tarek also played for World Schools Select XV, who were short on players for

their team. The coaches for each of the teams consisted of a mix of people from all over the world, just as the team members were. Africa Pacific Dragons had coaches from Paul Roos Gymnasium, Grabouw, New Zealand and Noordheuwel.

The three Hermies stayed in the Paul Roos hostels during the festival and met boys from all over South Africa and the globe, including England, Italy, America and New Zealand. They said they enjoyed showing the boys around and teaching the foreign players some Afrikaans words.

They all agreed that it was an unforgettable experience and said any schoolboy who is chosen to play, should grab the opportunity with both hands. They not only learned a lot, but also made many memories that will last a lifetime.

Tiaan Hechter, Tarek Smith and SJ Herholdt proudly wearing the jackets they received at the World Schools Rugby Festival.

The first team hockey boys and girls from Hermanus Primary School were given their official kit for the season at a handover event on the AstroTurf behind the new sports centre on Wednesday 3 April. Their kit was sponsored by a number of businesses and individuals from the Hermanus community: Andries and Heleen Cilliers (who sponsored the girls’ longsleeve tops), Autohaven (boys’ and girls’ warm jackets), Bliss Health and Skincare (boys’ long-sleeve tops), Lighthouse Construction (girls’ match clothes) and Xpediant (boys’ match clothes). The players were ecstatic to receive the new kit and the captains from each team thanked the sponsors on behalf of their teammates. From left are Neil Botha (Boys’ Hockey Coach), Sunet Mulder (Sport Organiser), Heleen Cilliers, Beatrie du Toit (Bliss Health and Skincare), Lambert van Heerden and Eddy Lanuti (Lighthouse Construction), Barry Cilliers (Hermanus Primary School principal), Clayton Delplanque (Xpediant), Siebert Wiid, Francois Bezuidenhout (Autohaven) and Lalindei Botha (Girls’ Hockey Coach) with the Hermanus Primary School first team hockey boys and girls. PHOTO: Taylum Meyer

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