The Village NEWS 10 February - 16 February 2021

THE VILLAGE

NEWS

10 FEBRUARY 2021 YOUR FREE COPY #ALLOVEROVERBERG The next issue of The Village NEWS will be out on 17 February 2021.

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Jenny Parsons captured this stunning photograph of a mother Cape Grey Mongoose (right) and one of her two pups on her driveway wall in Pringle Bay. She says the youngsters have become quite adventurous now under the watchful eye of mom. Mongooses are known for their ability to fight and kill venomous snakes, especially cobras. Johnathan Powers (082 352 6000), a local snake remover, says there has been an increase in venomous snake call-outs in the Overstrand this season. Corné Uys (076 075 8004), another local snake remover and friend of Johathan's, also says he’s experienced more call-outs, especially for Boomslang. He recently caught his biggest one yet in Berg en See, which was 1.6m long!

PHOTO: Jenny Parsons

Hope for the economy Writer De Waal Steyn

Act (AGOA), which allows duty-free exports of more than 6 500 goods from Africa to the United States.

fering training and skills development, and are supporting local communities through outreach and humanitarian programmes in the Western Cape.

eration and coordination to promote and increase bilateral trade and investment through various engagements, events, and high-level interactions.

On Friday, the US Consulate General in Cape Town and the Western Cape Government jointly launched a Trade and Investment Promotion Partnership, which will build on the momentum of the existing economic relationship to promote shared prosperity and economic development.

Bilateral trade between the United States and the Western Cape is increasing. Over the past 20 years, trade has risen by 335% and is currently valued at approximately R17 billion annually.

In 2020, bilateral trade grew despite the Covid-19 pandemic. This growth included a 68% increase in citrus exports and a 78% increase in wine exports to the United States. Several local wine estates have reported an increase in sales in this market.

“The United States is a key tourism and business market for the Western Cape, and the biggest source of foreign direct investment for the province, so I am excited about the potential for further investment and economic growth for both regions through the Trade and Investment Promotion Partnership,” Maynier said at the launch.

Stevens said: “The trade and investment promotion partnership builds on our strong relationship with the Western Cape and the US government’s commitment to increasing our already robust trade and investment. The partnership also reflects the US private sector’s increasing interest in investing in the Western Cape and the potential for further expanding bilateral trade.”

The United States has been the top foreign direct investor in the Western Cape for many years, with US companies creating tens of thousands of jobs.

In addition, many companies are of-

At the launch event, Western Cape Minister of Finance and Economic Opportunities, David Maynier, and US Acting Consul General in Cape Town, Will Stevens, pledged to deepen coop-

The partnership will leverage the decades of innovative trade and investment promotion through the Western Cape’s agencies such as Wesgro, and the services, resources, and expertise of 17 US government agencies to support US and African businesses, and the African Growth and Opportunity

The last year has seen several trade and investment successes, with Google committing $150 million at the South African Investment Conference for its undersea fibre-optic cable that will terminate in Cape Town and provide high-speed internet across South Africa.

W

Village Square, Hermanus | 028 312 3411

hile news reports on the Covid-19 pandemic makes one feel as if you are on a roller coaster, at least there is some good news on the economy.

The US government-funded Southern Africa Trade and Investment Hub helped multiple companies, such as PURA Beverages, Oryx Desert Salt, and Darling Sweet, begin exports to the United States.

Amazon launched three data centres in Cape Town for its AWS cloud computing platform, creating the company’s first Africa Region cluster, which provides data storage, content back-up, and faster connectivity.

Rand Capital Coffee opened six Starbucks stores in the Western Cape.

Rhodes Food Group announced it would supply Walmart stores in the United States with canned pears. And much to the delight of consumers, Krispy Kreme increased its locations and outlets selling doughnuts and other products in the Western Cape.

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www.thevillagenews.co.za

10 February 2021

High Street upgrade nearing completion Writer De Waal Steyn

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he brand-new High Street redevelopment is starting to take shape, with work on the upper part of the street continuing briskly and expected to be completed within the next three months.

The upgrade of the street forms part of the bigger CBD Regeneration Project for which a capital project budget of R7 million was allowed for in the 2019/’20 municipal budget.

The regeneration project plan that was drawn up by GAPP Architects and Urban Designers was adopted

by Council in 2016 and included in the 2017 to 2022 Integrated Development Plan and consists of six individual projects aimed at reviving Hermanus Old Town.

In order to save costs, the upgrade of High Street was done in conjunction with the upgrading of the stormwater system in the CBD. Apart from the new paved street surface and levelled-out pavements making the area pedestrian friendly, a steel and timber pergola will soon be erected on the corner of High and Dirkie Uys Street opposite Rossi’s Italian Restaurant. The parking area behind the pergola could be used for events such as street markets in future.

According to the project team from

GAPP Architects and Urban Designers, who are responsible for the High Street upgrade, the aim is to have a street where people can walk about freely to shop or sit at a table on the pavement to eat and drink. High Street will be transformed into a vibrant, pedestrian-friendly retail street that connects the current “anchors” of the Station Square and Woolworths developments with the proposed Mitchell Square Development.

The street will be landscaped to create a high-quality pedestrian priority mall. Traffic circulation within the CBD does not allow for the exclusion of all vehicular traffic from High Street, however there is a lot of scope to transform the street into a pedestrian-dominated space while still allowing traffic to pass through.

Areas where cars are not allowed will be protected with trees, bollards and streetlights and will be clearly defined. As it is currently, the short section from College Road to the Woolworths parking area will be for two-way traffic and from Beach House Interiors to College Road it will be one-way traffic.

In conjunction with the Environmental Department of the municipality, trees and groundcover will be used not only to beautify the area and assist with stormwater filtration but also to allow for natural cooling of the area. Separate planted areas will also be created and edged with

natural stone and topped with timber to act as benches.

The overhead power lines will be removed, and new, contemporary streetlights will be installed. The power lines were moved underground at the same time the stormwater pipes were installed.

The other areas that were identified for regeneration include the taxi rank and municipal precinct area where unused vacant land, haphazard parking, informal trading, and taxi operations are an eyesore. Several plans to upgrade the welcome signage across from the old synagogue are yet to come to fruition despite several promises made by the municipality.

Also included in the rejuvenation project is Swallow Park and Marine Drive. It is proposed that facilities for cyclists must be provided and Swallow Park upgraded to make provision for seating, lighting, and public toilets.

The Commercial development of Mitchell Street Square behind Ackermans also forms part of the bigger project, as does Lemm’s Corner, which acts as the knuckle that connects the Old Town with the coastal edge, and The Old Harbour Precinct.

This precinct is especially important as a tourist attraction. It is proposed that development opportunities are proactively explored with the Muse-

um Trust to investigate the adaptive reuse of buildings to accommodate commercial opportunities such as restaurants, venues, whale listening facilities etc.

The amphitheatre space is a significant asset to the precinct and small interventions that would improve the unity between the Old Harbour Museum, Bietang’s Cave, and viewing points around the war memorial canon to the amphitheatre space will continue to improve the value of the precinct as a positive destination and public attraction.

Plans of the High Street upgrade are on display at Rossi’s and The Gallery Deli in High Street.

Onrus Vermont SRA finalising plans T he Steering Committee of the Onrus Vermont Special Rating Area (OVSRA) signed the Memorandum of Intent (MOI) with Overstrand Municipality last week after a delay caused in an attempt to iron out a new clause which has crept into the final memorandum, the committee said in a press release.

“This clause relates to all future votes at an Annual General Meeting by members of the SRA non-profit company being allocated on a sliding scale according to the municipal valuation of their property.

"Both the Hermanus and Kleinmond SRAs have signed that clause

into their MOIs, and it was felt by the OVSRA Steering Committee that due to the time constraints involved in getting the SRA operational by July that we had no other option but to sign,” it said.

According to them they are in the process of registering a non-profit company called Onrus Vermont

Special Ratings Area, and they are calling for nominations for directors of this company from property owners in Onrus, Vermont, Chantaclaire and Berghof.

“The nomination period will close by the end of March and an election of directors will be held at a public meeting towards the end of

April 2021, which will leave the way clear for the SRA to be ready for the July deadline,” they said.

For more information, or to receive the nomination, form please visit their website at onrusvermontsra.wordpress.com or send an email to onrus.vermont. sra@gmail.com.

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www.thevillagenews.co.za

10 February 2021

LOVE A LITTLE LOCAL

A random act of kindness Writer Elaine Davie

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n many ways the Coronavirus pandemic has provided fertile ground for random, unsolicited acts of kindness, often anonymous and unrecorded, to occur. There is something very special about someone becoming aware of another person’s need and spontaneously deciding, without the expectation of anything in return, to share their own resources with them.

As we know, our children have been particularly hard hit by the lockdown. Not only was their 2020 school year seriously disrupted, leaving them with a sense of insecurity and displacement, but when the daily meal they received at school was discontinued, it pushed many into virtual starvation. Mothers and fathers lost their jobs and even when some of them returned to work, the children were left to their own devices in a sometimes unsafe environment.

Added to the uncertainty of on-again, off-again dates for the opening of public schools this year, concern has been growing amongst parents about how they will be able to provide their children with school uniforms, especially those who are starting primary or high school for the first time. The three PEP Stores in Hermanus – in the CBD, at Gateway Centre and the Whale Coast Mall – report that they have been putting away school uniform lay-bys for customers since about October last year.

Whale Coast Mall PEP Store Manager, Ashlene October reports that some of their lay-bys were cancelled by customers struggling financially.

With the new school year due to start on the 15th of this month, she says, the parents are becoming increasingly anxious.

And then, to the jaw-dropping amazement of the three store managers, last Wednesday a Hermanus couple visited each of them and paid in full all the outstanding lay-by accounts for school uniforms and stationery currently on their books – 158 in total, worth around R83 000. Some were for one or two items, some for a new learner’s full kit. As the donor himself said, “It was heartbreaking for us to learn that it might take four months for a customer to pay off one pair of school shoes for, say R100.”

After the Whale Coast Mall store closed that day, the staff immediately started parceling

up the lay-bys, allocating a voucher number to each and calling or SMSing the relevant customers to give them their number and telling them they could come and collect their purchases. “We wanted to give them the good news straight away,” says Ashlene.

When we visited the store on Saturday morning the customers were still arriving to pick up their parcels, most of them with a dazed look in their eyes, afraid they might have misunderstood the message. Two of them rushed at Ashlene before she could stave them off, to give her a huge hug.

“No, no, no, it’s not me; it’s an angel who paid off your lay-by,” was all she managed to get out.

Another lady told me she had three children, two in high school and one in primary. She opened her parcel and took out three pairs of shoes to show us. “I am unemployed,” was all she managed to get out.

PEP introduced a Lay-By Buddy initiative, inspired by a similar gesture by an anonymous donor in a Mossel Bay store in December 2019 who paid off all the lay-bys in that particular store. Benefactors wishing to assist customers with the payment of their lay-bys, for any purchase, may contribute anything from as little as R2 in any PEP store at the till or R20 online at www.pepstores.com. PEP’s policy is that lay-bys must be paid off in full within a four-month period, and given the financial difficulties many people find themselves in, a random act of kindness like this could make all the difference to their peace of mind.

But, of course, this is certainly not the only way to reach out with assistance to someone in distress. It need not even involve a monetary transaction. At this time, when many people are in pain from the loss of a loved one and afraid of what the future may hold for them or their families, there is no shortage of opportunities for random acts of kindness directed at someone you know, or may never know.

During the pandemic, if not previously, we in the Overstrand have been shown to be people with big hearts and a spirit of generosity. Our challenge to each of our fellow-citizens, rich or poor, is to become a serial dispenser of random acts of kindness. In the words of the anonymous donor, “If everyone did something small, we would live in a beautiful world.”

Two of the young mothers who were dumbstruck at being able to collect their paidup school uniform lay-bys at Pep Store Whale Coast Mall last Saturday were Sonelise Mfamana (Left) and Khalza Motlohi (Right). In the centre is Store Manageress, Ashlene October, who was just as thrilled as her customers.

PHOTO: Taylum Meyer

MONTH OF LOVE

MEGA DEALS!

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www.thevillagenews.co.za

10 February 2021

Placing a value on art Writer Elaine Davie

T

hrilling, electric, fascinating, enthralling – these are words that pepper the conversation of two women who between them have devoted almost 70 years of their lives to the business of selling fine art, antique furniture and other decorative arts on auction. Art consultant, Ann Palmer and Managing Director, Vanessa Phillips were members of the Strauss & Co team responsible for the company’s annual valuation day in Hermanus on Monday 25 January, a regular feature of the FynArts Festival.

For Vanessa this profession is a bit like show business: once you’ve experienced that adrenalin rush, you’re hooked for life. Both she and Ann started their careers with the late, legendary Stephan Welz and after he sold his original business and opened Strauss & Co in Cape Town in 2009, they made the move, too.

One of the things they both enjoy is going on field trips to do valuations. It has to do with anticipation of the unexpected, never knowing what treasure might drop into their laps out of nowhere, like the Joshua Reynolds that recently emerged on one of their trips. It also gives them the opportunity of making personal contact with potential buyers and sellers.

Of course the entire business has undergone a sea change since the start of lockdown and personal contact is one of the elements that has largely fallen by the wayside. “In March 2020, we were about to run one of our four big annual auctions – two in Cape Town and two in Johannesburg – when lockdown was announced, so we postponed it to May,” says Ann, “little realising that this would signal the beginning of a whole new way of doing things. In fact, if the business were to survive, we would have to change our entire modus operandi, and

quickly.”

Going totally digital took some getting used to, but any wrinkles there might have been at the start have been straightened out. In the pandemic-affected economy world-wide, there may have been something of a tick down in prices in general, but the wider reach has made up for it.

“Our client base has increased out of all recognition,” explains Ann. We have bids coming in from all over the world now, not just Europe and the UK, but from America to China and Australia. Interestingly, the indigenous art that was lost to China during Mao’s Cultural Revolution is now being bought back.”

Vanessa agrees that oriental decorative art and artefacts are in great demand these days.

African art is of great interest, too, and some of South Africa’s top artists like Irma Stern, Maggie Laubser, William Kentridge, Gustav Preller, Pierneef and Gregoire Boonzaaier are still fetching top prices. In fact, last year the purchase price for a sculpture by Sydney Kumalo achieved a global record of R1 820 800. What excites both Ann and Vanessa is that the average age of purchasers has dropped to the 35 – 40 age group from around 60.

“The thing is, they’re very comfortable with the technology and many of them are relatively well-informed about their field of interest, although generally, they just tend to buy what they like,” comments Vanessa. They engage in the zoom talks we organise and come at things with new eyes, which is thrilling to observe. Scandinavian furniture of the mid-20th century is very popular amongst this age group.

“Although they can’t touch the lots or see them physically displayed on the sale room floor, we do a virtual tour of each item, showing it from every conceivable angle, and in the catalogue, we list any blemishes or defects there may be.

Of course, as a company we have always prided ourselves not only in our expertise, but also in being totally transparent, and prospective

buyers feel they can trust us.”

All of their four main yearly auctions are now conducted in real-time with an auctioneer, and streamed live on the internet over a period of four days. Three comprehensive catalogues, including one for wine, are produced for each sale and are available on the website. In addition, throughout the year online auctions are proving to be very popular. Held over the period of a week, they sometimes include between 400 and 500 lots, offering a platform for mainly lower-value items.

Some of South Africa’s top artists like Pierneef (above) and Irma Stern (below) are still fetching top prices at art auctions. In fact, last year the purchase price for a sculpture by Sydney Kumalo (left) achieved a global record of R1 820 800.

Ann hates it when art is bought solely as an investment or to follow a trend. “You should be guided by your taste and because the work speaks to your heart,” she says. “I do have to say, though, that provenance adds value to a piece.

Knowing how and when it came into the seller’s possession, especially if he or she is a member of Royalty or a celebrity, does give it that extra credibility.”

She admits that she misses the hype that used to surround live sales, the pre-sale talk-up viewings for hallowed clients at the Vineyard Hotel, and then the electric buzz on the day of the sale, with buyers bidding against each other with heightened urgency and excitement. “I remember one sale at the Johannesburg Country Club, for instance. There were two people bidding against each other, higher and higher.

The tension in the room was extreme. When the lot was finally knocked down to the one young bidder, she leapt from her chair with a shout of sheer jubilation. That’s what gives one the rush.”

Vanessa agrees, but says that online auctions can often still deliver the same excitement.

“People hold back until the last minute and then in the final hour it’s high drama, with competing bids coming in fast and furious until the very last minute. What can I say, I’m a junkie.”

The Strauss & Co teams in both Cape Town and Johannesburg are happy to carry out valuations free of charge. Visit their website (www.straussart.co.za) for guidelines and information about upcoming auctions.

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www.thevillagenews.co.za

10 February 2021

LOVE A LITTLE LOCAL

The Artwalk is back!

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fter a very quiet January, there was an uptick in activity in Hermanus on Friday evening as the HFF committee decided on short notice to go ahead with the February Artwalk.

Although the event was more subdued than usual, many artwalkers

were delighted to be back and made use of this opportunity to pop into their favourite art galleries.

Harbour Road was quite busy, with many Artwalkers gathering in The Courtyard and stopping off for a drink and a bite to eat at The Wine Glass and other restaurants in town.

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It was encouraging to come across several people who said they had come for the weekend, with some of them experiencing the Artwalk for the first time. Accommodation establishments also reported an increase in weekend bookings.

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– Hedda Mittner

Kelly Sam admiring this striking charcoal on paper portrait

by Lauren Redman in the Art@ Africa-Hermanus Gallery.

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1. David Wilson, Kees van de Coolwijk and Daniel Reddie from the Hermanus Photographic Society with some of their photographs.

2. Barbara Lindop in her gallery, Inthethe, which recently moved to a new premises in High Street across from Oskars Delicatessen.

3. Terry Kobus of Originals showing the way on the HFF map to firsttime Artwalkers, Marguerite Jones and Henrik Karlsson, who were visiting for the weekend from Cape Town.

4. Ed Bredenkamp of Lembu chatting to local Artwalkers, Oskar Kirchner and his daughter Sabine.

PHOTOS: Hedda Mittner & Taylum Meyer

Hats for Africa in Hermanus’ CBD H ats off to Hermanus Tourism for heeding the call for a centrally-located studio where young artists of this region can ply their trade in full view of members of the public who will be able to purchase directly from them (see The Village NEWS of 20 January).

Just under 18 months ago, Mardee Cita arrived in town with nothing but a powerful belief in his God-given talent to be an artist.

To help him stand out from others displaying their wares at the Whale Festival, he painted all his clothes, literally from head to foot, in colourful Ndebele designs. In effect, he became a walking work of art.

Thanks to his painted hat and enthusiasm, he subsequently caught the attention of art lover, Lillian Lloys Ellis who persuaded him to make more of them for sale, each a unique item of wearable art.

Since then, the initiative has gone from strength to strength and Mardee is now employing three assistants to help him produce

a torrent of beautiful hats. Now they have been given a beautiful space in the heart of the CBD from which to continue creating and selling the hats – as well as painted sneakers – to locals and visitors.

The ‘Mardee’s Hats’ sign (designed and painted by Mardee himself, of course) proudly announces their presence in the Hermanus Tourism building on Station Square. Mardee was smiling from ear to ear when it opened its doors for the first time on 1 February, barely able to believe his good fortune.

Meanwhile Tourism’s Frieda Lloyd is equally pleased to have been able to make the space available. “It fits perfectly into our policy of reaching out into the community to promote art and entrepreneurship on the one hand, and to add to the unique tourism offering available to visitors to the Overstrand.”

It was hats off all round when Mardee’s Hats opened its doors for the first time on Monday 1 February in the Hermanus Tourism building.

Surrounded by hats for Africa, each one a unique piece of wearable art, are Frieda Lloyd of Hermanus Tourism, Mardee Cita, his two assistants, Lwandiso Tunalele and Lwandiso Mhlanyane and Lillian Lloys Ellis who has helped Mardee establish his innovative art-based business.

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FROM THE EDITOR

10 February 2021

Not all doom and gloom

The past few weeks have resulted in a dizzying amount of information regarding the various Covid-19 vaccines and their efficacy, especially against the South African variant of the disease.

Much of the news has unfortunately been disheartening, with the South African Government putting a halt to the distribution of the one million doses of AstraZeneca vaccine we received only a week ago. Together with this, leading vaccine scientists are calling for a rethink of the goals of vaccination programmes, saying that the achievement

of herd immunity through vaccination is unlikely because of the emergence of variants like we have in South Africa.

This came as the University of Oxford and AstraZeneca acknowledged that their vaccine will not protect people against mild to moderate Covid-19 illness caused by the South African variant.

A study involving more than 2 000 people in South Africa followed results from two other vaccines which found that the vaccines offered much reduced

THE VILLAGE

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WhatsApp or SMS your stories and photos to 083 700 3319

Hedda Mittner

E: hedda@thevillagenews.co.za

Raphael da Silva ONLINE EDITOR T: 074 125 5854

E: raphael@thevillagenews.co.za

Elaine Davie

JOURNALIST T: 084 343 7500

E: elaine@thevillagenews.co.za Taylum Meyer PRODUCTION MANAGER, PHOTOGRAPHY & DESIGN T: 084 564 0779

E: taylum@thevillagenews.co.za

Charé van der Walt MARKETING & SALES MANAGER T: 082 430 1974

This might lead the way in future for people to expect regular booster shots of Covid vaccines in the way we do with flu vaccinations, where scientists look at what variant is likely to spread around the world every season, and rapidly

And while we may not have immediate answers as we await word from scientists on the best way to proceed, it must be emphasised that at the moment the true value of the vaccines is in reducing

produce a variant of vaccine that will then begin to protect people against infection.

On the positive side, our government has announced it will start offering vaccines developed by Johnson & Johnson and Pfizer in the coming weeks. It is believed that these vaccines offer more promising effectiveness against the South African variant and severe forms of Covid-19. It was even described as a potential “silver bullet”. So, it is not all doom and gloom.

This is the good NEWS – Ed

Love me, love my mask ing into a pumpkin or the police arrested you, whichever came first. Sadly, many budding relationships ended due to the curfew and the alcohol ban. We all know that no one is ugly after midnight and six tequilas.

Pre-covid, you could at least spend Valentine's on your own in the dark, right at the back of the movies, feeling sorry for yourself and bawling your eyes out in between your popcorn, choccies and mega-Coke.

By Hélène Truter

PUBLISHING EDITOR T: 083 700 3319

CONTENT EDITOR T: 083 645 3928

the burden on our health system. This is especially true if one considers that the study confirms that the coronavirus will find ways to continue to spread in vaccinated populations and that even if vaccines do not bring down the numbers of people infected with variant strains, they could save lives.

a Valentine's dinner for one.

De Waal Steyn

E: dewaal@thevillagenews.co.za

protection against the local variant.

Pfizer/BioNTech and Moderna have also said the variant affects the efficacy of their vaccines, although based on lab studies only. While this has left many of us in shock, it is important to remember that all the vaccines have been found to protect against the most severe disease, hospitalisation, and death.

T

heir eyes meet across the not-so-crowded supermarket isle. He has soulful misty eyes, Jaci muses. Or maybe it's just because her glasses are steamed up. (I know I should get myself one of those masks with the filter thingy that makes you look like you have a huge growth on your cheek, she tells me. I might as well wear support hose and a sign that says, ‘I've given up on romance, roses and rugged men'.)

Long romantic strolls along the beach were also extremely dangerous. You would be charged by the cavalry on horseback or you would be personally removed by the Minister himself. Does that mean you are really important or that the man with the Hat has nothing better to do?

According to social media, if you were single before LOCKDOWN (yes, it has to be in capitals, it's been that devastating) your chance of hooking up with someone decent is as good as our previous President going to jail.

No man, we lost our Freedom, the December Holiday and our Sense of Humour; we can't lose Valentine's as well. Jaci decided old-fashioned flirting, while keeping your social distance would have to do. After exchanging negative Covid tests, a blind date was set up.

But many persevered, like my friend, Jaci, who tried the virtual dating thing via Zoom. The first date was just as awkward as any other.

At first she could only see the top of his head.

After a while she realised that she had accidently hit the mute button, which explained the painfully long silences. Once they could actually see and hear each other, he suddenly excused himself.

How do you tell if a man is rugged these days, she wonders. That mask could be hiding a double chin, bad teeth and a crooked nose.

Oh my word, he's coming her way. Damn, he can't come closer. He's trapped six footprints away from her.

Wearing her sexiest mask they met in the parking lot, remaining in their cars of course.

Oh my word, it's Misty Eyes from the Supermarket! Jaci closed her eyes, imagining their first kiss.

To her shock and horror she discovered that he'd been wearing his underpants throughout. (No, she could not tell whether he was happy to see her, get your mind out of the gutter.) But the cherry on top, excuse the pun, was the entrance of a strange woman who quite rudely told Jaci to stop harassing her boyfriend.

She tries to delay at the exit, hoping he'll catch up, but after being disinfected for the third time the security guard gets suspicious and she has to move off.

For the best probably; she could burst into flames should anyone strike a match within the allotted 1 and a half metres. Or is it two metres? She can't keep up anymore. On the way out she notices the queue at the liquor store is out the door. She spent her previous paycheck on illegal booze so she can hardly afford to pay her rent, let alone treat herself to

What a disappointment.

Kissing someone while wearing a mask and smelling like Jik just doesn't cut it. She's brought back to reality. He's mumbling something. Sorry, I can't hear you. Brazenly, he pulls down his mask. At least he has all his teeth. He throws her a small wrapped gift.

Aaw, he’s a romantic, she thought, hoping it's chocolates. She opened it. What?! A box of Ivermectin. This man is a keeper!

Back to the normal dating thing then. But the goal posts kept on shifting. You could go to a restaurant but you had to leave at 22:00, then 21:00, then 20:00; now we're back to 22:00, I think? Whatever. You had to leave before turn-

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LOCKDOWN LEVEL:

LEV

COVID-19 DASHBOARD OVERSTRAND

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3

EL

TOTAL CASES AS OF 8 FEB 2021:

OVERSTRAND BREAKDOWN OF CASES: TOTAL (ACTIVE)

WORLD: 106 783 422 SOUTH AFRICA: 1 476 135 WESTERN CAPE: 269 833 (18.27% of cases in SA) OVERBERG: 13 021

• FISHERHAVEN: 42 (3) • GANSBAAI: 178 (6) • HAWSTON: 430 (18) • HERMANUS: 710 (28) • KLEINMOND: 660 (13)

• MT PLEASANT: 350 (7) • ONRUS: 198 (10) • SANDBAAI: 212 (7) • STANFORD: 375 (11) • VERMONT: 89 (1) • ZWELIHLE: 1 074 (11)

LAST WEEK'S TOTAL CASES:

TOTAL: 4 910 (123)

(2 FEB)

WORLD: 103 677 984 SOUTH AFRICA: 1 453 761 (15th in the world) WESTERN CAPE: 266 939 OVERBERG: 12 903 (431 deaths) OVERSTRAND: 4 852 (130 deaths)

LET'S TALK 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 dewaal@thevillagenews.co.za.

Alan McLennan-Smith

25.08.1930 – 31.01.2020 Alan Mc Lennan-Smith, known as Mac to all his friends and family, passed away in Hermanus Hospital after a long battle with medical problems following a stroke a few years back, the effects of which he fought stoically.

Mac was well known around Hermanus after moving down from Johannesburg for his retirement. Born in Perth, Scotland, he qualified in the UK as a Quantity Surveyor when he met and married Anne Carolyn Hill (Carol). They moved to Borrowdale in Rhodesia in the 1950’s, had four of their five children and then moved to Johannesburg. Mac became a businessman, working for 3M Company and then became CEO of Weidmuller, a German electronics company, until his ‘retirement’ to Hermanus.

Once settled in and after building their first beautiful home, Mac set about keeping busy and using his QS training, oversaw the building of luxury homes in Hermanus. Word soon spread and Mac was recruited time and again to oversee projects of renovation or building for many of the stylish and tasteful improvements seen around Hermanus.

He had a gym and social group of dear friends, most notably Guy Winchester-Gould and Roy Whittaker – the trio calling themselves ‘The Three Musketeers’.

Alan and his wife of 67 years, Carol, built and moved almost every 7 years of their lives – most recently, in 2019, they undertook a very ambitious and successful renovation project despite the after effects of his stroke.

Being well rounded, Mac also decided to establish a club for those with

birding interests. He initiated The Hermanus Bird Club in 1998 and enjoyed fun outings, weekends away and evening discussions with the many active members. About 50 years ago he started what has now become one of the finest philatelic collections of Victorian Great Britain in the world, focusing on the Mulready Envelope and its caricatures.

Alan had a great unconditional and fiercely loyal love of family and get-togethers, a great sense of humour, anything Scottish (especially a good single malt), bird watching, wild life and wood working. He was a great oak tree of a man and will be sorely missed around the town. It is with deep sadness that we say farewell to this wonderful person.

A message from Carol - My Mac. We had a wonderful life together through thick and thin. Lots of travels, fun, laughter, and building. We have such a lovely, talented and caring family. I miss you and am so sad that I couldn't hold your hand at the end. Thank you for your support and all you have done for me.

Deep and sincere thanks to all his medical team, those front-liners who risk their lives and those of their family’s daily to be there for our loved ones and also to Valerie Brandt, for all the compassion and professionalism shown in his world class care. A Huge Hug until we meet again. From our children, the late Audrey, and Sue, Jenny, Rob and Jacqueline. Twelve grand and eleven great-grandchildren will

miss you dearly Big Mac. You will live in our hearts forever. R.I.P. A message from Sue- Always in deepest appreciation for all that you are and what you taught us, you will forever be in our thoughts and hearts. With so much love from Susie, Meran, Segnes, Adi and your grandchildren,

Antie Joutjie’s right royal birthday Reclining like royalty against her pillows, the Mayor’s card and flowers are presented to Antie Joutjie by Grant Cohen and fire fighters Braython Abrahams and Jason Griffiths (kneeling).

A message from Jenny – Mac, so strong, kind and generous to our family and friends. Our special bond and your cheeky sense of humour that had us seeking out giggles at every opportunity. I will miss you forever. Love Tennifer A message from Jacqueline – I will miss you my Special Dad. I planted a tree for you today and will sit under it when I need to speak to you. Your “Quack.”

A message from Rob – Mac you were my rock and inspiration throughout life, driving me forward to make you proud of me. You will always be in my Heart. Love Boonie A message from Paige – Mac, you always said I was your favourite daughter in-law, good thing you only had one son. A true charmer and a real gentleman. Will miss someone calling me “DIL”.

No flowers please. Rather, we request donations in Mac’s memory for all the love and affection he gave and received from his beloved HAWS rescue dog, Chloe. (HAWS, Standard bank 051001, Account number 082263310, Cheque Account.)

In pre-Republican days, when Antie Joutjie Kuhrau of Kleinmond was born, those South Africans who reached the venerable age of 100 received a telegram of congratulations from the (British) Monarch.

Conversely, when Antie Joutjie turned 100 on Monday 1 February (see The Village NEWS of 27 January), she herself was treated like royalty.

Surrounded by all six of her children for a celebratory lunch at her daughter, Hilda Greyling’s house, she could share happy memories of a long, active and truly blessed life, in which her love of children played a major role. Tired but happy after the excitement of the day, Antie Joutjie retired to her room after lunch for a little nap.

Later in the afternoon, she was awoken by a huge commotion in

the house and next thing she knew, there was an invasion of people into her room. Ward Councillor Grant Cohen had arrived with a beautiful bouquet of flowers and a birthday card from the Overstrand Mayor, Ald Dudley Coetzee, a chocolate cake from himself and a box of fruit and rusks from the Bloubakkie fresh produce shop in Kleinmond.

Even more exciting was that all of these goodies, together with Grant, were delivered to the house by two firemen in their shining red fire truck. What a day for Antie Joutjie to add to her memories!

It is with great sadness that The Village NEWS learnt on Monday that Antie Joutjie had suddenly passed away in the early hours of Saturday morning, mere days after celebrating this very special birthday. Our sincere condolences to the family.

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LOVE A LITTLE LOCAL

Work, play and eat at Co.Unity Writer Hedda Mittner

C

o.Unity Shared Workspaces in Hermanus, which opened its doors three months into the lockdown, continues to expand on its offering, ranging from a half-day or full-day pass, to a flexi 5-day pass or a 30-day pass. Whether you choose an open hot desk, a cubicle or a private office, you only pay for the time you use the space.

Customers can also make use of Co.Unity’s 1-hour ‘on the go’ option, book the ‘Zoom Room’ for video conferencing or the boardroom with its smart screen, ideal for meetings, training and interviews.

It’s an attractive option for people working remotely who would like to get out of the house and enjoy all the convenience of unlimited, super-fast fibre WiFi, back-up generator power that immediately kicks in during load-shedding, and coffee on tap, not to mention the friendly and energetic vibe of this unique facility.

While the Co.Unity Café has been part of this innovative business since it opened in July last year, ensuring easy access to great coffee and light snacks such as muffins and sarmies, they were not able to do any cooking on the premises. Which is why owners Craig and Brett Austin have

now also added a food truck, which is parked in front of the building and provides more substantial grub for breakfast or lunch.

Behind the griller is Johnny Botha, who is not to be confused with your regular burger-flipper. Johnny previously worked at Fisherman’s Cottage with Chef Anton Verhoogt, from whom he says he learnt a great deal. Johnny is looking forward to doing his own thing here at Co.Unity, preparing scrumptious street food that can be enjoyed on the go or at one of the outside tables.

This is no run-of-the-mill fast food but mouth-watering creations that will change regularly – last week it was an innovative breakfast bun and a ‘dirty dog’ (a Frankfurter roll with sauerkraut and gherkins), and next week it might be fish tacos (with pineapple or mango salsa, served with an avo, sour cream and pickled onion crema) or a gourmet burger (a 200gr beef patty with white Cheddar, bacon jam, crumbed and deep-fried tomato, butter lettuce and garlic aioli).

Craig says the food truck is a great solution for their customers when they start feeling peckish but don’t necessarily want to disrupt their working day by setting off to one of the eateries in town. It fits in well with Co.Unity’s vision of providing a

WINE & DINE

vibrant, safe and convenient hub for the Hermanus business community.

“Since the start of the pandemic, many small businesses have had to give up their offices and employees are adjusting to working from home – something that freelancers and the self-employed have already been doing. Working in isolation, though, does have its challenges, including poor internet connectivity and load-shedding. Our vision is to pull people out of their homes and connect them by creating a hub where ideas are shared and businesses can thrive and grow, bringing revenue into our local community,” says Craig.

Part of that vision is attracting digital nomads who can live and work anywhere, he adds – and what better place is there than Hermanus? “The local economy would be more sustainable if it weren’t so tourist-centric and we have already seen digital nomads relocating to Hermanus from cities like Cape Town and Johannesburg.” With all the changes we’ve been forced to make in our professional lives due to the lockdown, Craig’s philosophy of ‘Live where you want, not where you work’ is making a whole lot of sense.

For more information, visit www. co-unity.co.za or contact 028 050 1028 or info@co-unity.co.za. You’ll find them at 18 Royal Street (c/o Dirkie Uys St).

ABOVE: Johnny Botha in his new food truck at Co.Unity (still waiting on its branding) serving Rebecca Mathyssen one of his delicious ‘dirty dogs’. On her left is Craig Austin, co-owner of Co-Unity.

RIGHT: Barista Allen Chimpeni and his assistant Ruth Mbire serve great coffee on the go at the Co.Unity Café.

PHOTOS: Hedda Mittner

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Country Market: And now for something the way forward different…

D LOVE A LITTLE LOCAL

iscussions between representatives of the Hermanus Country Market, the Overstrand Municipality and the Hermanus Sports Club have been ongoing for the past month in an attempt to resolve the various issues that are threatening the survival of this popular attraction.

A

fter eight years it was time to shake things up a little!” says Chef Anton Verhoogt of Fisherman’s Cottage, explaining why this popular restaurant’s menu has been completely revamped. The focus is now on small plates, enabling diners to taste a variety of dishes instead of just one plate.

“To be honest, I’ve been missing the opportunity to cook more contemporary food and felt like doing something different,” says Anton. While the food at Fisherman’s Cottage was mostly geared towards tourists, this innovative chef was able to give his creativity free rein at his second restaurant, The Barefoot Cook.

Unfortunately, due to the lockdown, Anton had to take the difficult decision to close that restaurant as they would not both have survived the crippling restrictions.

Last week the municipality was pleased to announce that progress had been made at another fruitful discussion held on Wednesday 3 February, to ensure the continued operation of the market.

The menu at The Barefoot Cook had changed regularly according to the availability of fresh seasonal produce and the dishes always had a touch of European sophistication. It wasn’t exactly fine dining but the food was very fine indeed, and the restaurant had a firm following.

It’s no wonder Anton became a bit bored with preparing the same kind of food week in and week out at Fisherman’s Cottage, no matter how delicious or popular. (There also seems less point to serving the kind of food tourists enjoy when there are so few tourists around!)

So Anton seems to be back in his element with his new small plate menu, which still retains a firm focus on seafood, plus a few old favourites from The Barefoot Cook (with a new twist, of course) such as a beetroot and goat’s cheese tartlet, crayfish kroketten, roasted bone marrow

and red wine snails, rabbit wonton bombs, and sliced sirloin steak. Then there are the fishy dishes, which include a seafood curry (yes, the famous one), linefish of the day, confit octopus carpaccio, grilled sardines, calamari bangers, and a smoked fish paté with a crumbed poached duck egg. Not to mention the mouth-watering desserts, which will guarantee a sweet ending to a memorable meal.

Locals are invited to come and try out the new menu at the launch on Friday evening (knowing Anton, there is sure to be additional entertainment of some sorts) and if you swing by Fisherman’s Cottage on Valentine’s Day this Sunday, you’ll be treated to a seven-course tasting menu which will really knock your loved one’s socks off. To book, call 028 3123642 or 082 556 5107.

– Hedda Mittner

PHOTOS: Gillian Coetzee

Core Hermanus:

SHOP ONLINE WWW.CORECATERING.CO.ZA WE DELIVER

Shop 16c, Lifestyle Centre 028 313 1775

At the meeting, chaired by the Mayor, Ald Dudley Coetzee and attended by the Deputy Mayor Elnora Gillion, Ward 3 Councillor, Ald Kari Brice, and the Municipal Manager Dean O’Neill, as well as representatives of the Hermanus Country Market and the Hermanus Sports Club, the mayor again emphasised the importance of the market for our town.

“The Overstrand Municipality values the significance of the market toward creating jobs and ensuring the livelihoods of traders, as well as its contribution to the economy and tourism of the region.”

The following issues were resolved: 1. The market will remain at its present location.

2. A long-term lease will be considered by the Hermanus Sports Club.

3. Overstrand Municipality will assist with ensuring that the market stalls

are structurally sound.

4. Hermanus Country Market will negotiate the use of the area with the Hermanus Sports Club, whereafter they will report back to the Municipality on the agreement reached.

Among the obstacles that prompted the organiser of the Country Market, Liza van Coppenhagen to step down and close the market at the beginning of January were the many months the market had been unable to trade during the lockdown, while its costs had remained constant; the uncertainty of tenure due to the Hermanus Sports Club’s reluctance to grant a long-term lease, as well as repeatedly requesting that the market be moved to another location; and the prohibitive cost of upgrading the market structures in order to comply with building regulations.

Liza’s decision, however, led to a public outcry and resulted in a dedicated group of traders taking matters into their own hands and ensuring that the market remains open. So don’t forget to come and support your favourite traders every Saturday morning!

The Country Market ‘guardians’ have worked very hard to ensure that the venue complies with Covid-19 regulations and is a safe outdoor space for the whole family. Bring a basket, fill it with goodies and enjoy a picnic on the grass while relaxing with your loved ones.

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MY ENVIRONMENT

A way to ecological Amendments to recovery for

wetlands A wetlands project close to the southern tip of Africa is a shining example of environmental recovery that needs to be replicated the world over if we are to turn the tide on wetland loss.

The Nuwejaars Wetlands Special Management Area (NWSMA), close to Cape Agulhas, is a unique conservation venture made up of 25 landowners who have signed title deed restrictions to protect the area. With the Elim community, they are working to restore these wetlands to ecological health for the benefit of people and nature.

The work at Nuwejaars is exactly what was advocated to mark this year’s World Wetlands Day on 2 February, with its focus on the restoration of wetlands and their importance as a source of freshwater. Through the restoration work taking place at Nuwejaars, including invasive alien clearing and rehabilitation along a 5km stretch of the river, a team of six now also enjoys secure, full-time employment.

These wetlands play a key role in securing regional groundwater flow for downstream communities and towns. They are also internationally important from a conservation perspective, feeding the Heuningnes Estuary at the CapeNature De Mond Reserve, a Ramsar site (one of South Africa’s 26 wetlands of international importance) and an Important Bird and Biodiversity Area, and with examples of critically endangered fynbos types.

A vital part of the work at Nuwejaars is the restoration of palmiet, a unique indigenous plant that helps to purify water and sequester carbon. Thousands of years ago, dense stands of palmiet dominated these wetlands and over the centuries, they likely formed the basis of the peat-like soils found here. Peat wetlands are vital in the fight against climate change, storing carbon for as long as it remains waterlogged, while helping to reduce the impact of floods.

By the late 1990s, many of these special wet-

fishing permits to protect sharks

lands faced increasing threats. In many places, they were overrun by invasive alien plants, which reduced water flows by up to 10%, and they became increasingly degraded.

This was one of the reasons a group of founding landowners decided in the early 2000s to create this conservation venture. WWF South Africa has supported the work since 2018.

Dirk Human, the chair of the NWSMA and owner of Black Oystercatcher Wines, comments, “WWF South Africa recognises the ecological importance of this area, and the role our wetlands can play well beyond our borders. We’re extremely grateful for their direct support over the past three years, and their belief in our work long before that, and we look forward to working with them for a long time to come.”

Jan Coetzee, Land Programme Manager with WWF South Africa, says, “We are very happy to be working with the NWSMA team whose commitment to the cause is clearly evident through the variety of interventions they have been willing to take – from alien clearance to controlled burns and replanting of indigenous species. They have shown how, by working together, we can restore wetlands to ecological health for the benefit of the natural world and current and future generations.”

During the next phase of the WWF South Africa project, the team will open up the area to interpretive walking tours, leading people to a bird hide overlooking a hidden water bird spot.

Local shark-cage diving operators and conservationists have advocated for the protection of Bronze whaler sharks for many years.

PHOTO: Kelly Baker, Marine Dynamics/Dyer Island Conservation Trust

A major win for South African shark species is the newly implemented slot size limits for all species of sharks targeted by line fishermen.

Issued on 14 January 2021, these updated regulations to the Traditional Linefish (Zone A) permit conditions by the Department of Environment, Forestry and Fisheries (DEFF), will help further reduce pressure on declining shark species along the South African coastline.

Under the new regulation it is completely illegal to catch and retain any shark species measuring more than 130 cm in total length (TL). This is the measured length (straight line) from the tip of the shark’s snout to the tip of its tail. The amendments allow for permitted linefish anglers to catch the more commercially valuable sizes and spare the larger potential

breeders, which will ultimately ensure a more sustainable fishery. The penalty for catching oversized sharks will be a large fine, confiscation of the catch and confiscation of the angler’s line-fishing permit.

These regulations will go a long way in preventing resource conflict such as the catching of bronze whaler sharks (which are all usually above 200 cm TL) in areas designated for shark cage diving. Marine Dynamics, together with other operators, has been at the forefront of this discussion.

“These regulations can be considered a big step forward for shark conservation and the ecological health of South Africa’s marine environment,” said Wilfred Chivell, owner of Marine Dynamics and founder of the Dyer Island Conservation Trust.

– Brenda Walters

In the meantime, visitors can experience the wetlands through two-hour guided wildlife tours. These sunrise and sunset tours take visitors to a special lake expanse, now home to hippo and buffalo (reintroduced here two centuries after they became locally extinct).

For more information on these tours, see www.nuwejaars.com.

The Stanford Conservation Recycling (SCORE) Swop Shop recently had a very successful morning with children exchanging eco bricks for a stationery pack suited to their grade.

Elma Hunter of the Swop Shop says they also take part in the monthly Junktique in Stanford where they sell donated goods that are not suitable for the swop shop, and use that income to buy stationery and toiletries for the children. During the lockdown the swop shop has not been able to operate as usual, but a way was found, with the help of the local SAPS and municipal law enforcement, to get the children to cooperate by wearing their masks and sitting at a safe distance from each other in the adjacent park. Small groups of children were then allowed inside the swop shop yard and were attended to by the volunteers. They were thrilled to receive their stationery packs in exchange for the eco bricks they’d made.

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LOVE A LITTLE LOCAL

Who knew spectacles could be this chic Writer Hedda Mittner

W

hen Bierman Malan Optometrists moved into their new premises on Station Square at the beginning of December, co-owner Liandri Malan and her team could not have been more thrilled – and with good reason. The chic, minimalist interior design has turned this historic building (known in earlier years as The Farmhouse before it became Savannah Café and more recently, Puzzles Pub) into a bright, modern space bringing world-class eyecare and eyewear to Hermanus.

Previously known as Bierman Britz, Liandri bought out Lizette Britz when she emigrated to Canada in 2019. Bierman Malan Hermanus is now one of three practices in the area, with the other two being in Gansbaai and at the Whale Coast Mall.

Originally from Bloemfontein, where this small bundle of energy graduated from the Free State University with a Bachelor of Optometry degree, Liandri completed her practical year in a rural town in the Eastern Cape near East London before venturing even further, this time to the Caribbean, where she lived and worked in Trinidad and Tobago for two years. She also spent time in New Zealand and it was on a trip to Argentina that her husband, Gys Malan, proposed to her.

The couple married in 2012 and eventually settled in Durbanville, where Liandri did locum work while starting a family. A few years later they moved to Gys’s father’s wine farm near Stanford where their second daughter was born (they are now 6 and 4 years old). After working at an optometry practice in Sandbaai for two years, Liandri started teaching physics and chemistry at Hermanus High School while also helping out at Bierman Britz, then located right next to Woolworths.

A year after she bought into the business and the name was changed to Bierman Malan, Liandri saw that the building across the square was for sale.

The pub that had been there at the time had not

survived the lockdown and she and her partner, Wikus Bierman immediately set out to purchase the building in October 2020 – and then to completely strip the interior and renovate it to their taste.

Although Liandri is very proud to be part of a dynamic family-orientated group of independent practices in South Africa (Bierman Optometry Group) with high professional standards, providing personal and professional eyecare to their clients, she is even more proud of their community projects.

“Giving back is so important – now more than ever before,” she says. “All three of our shops give eye tests to three learners per month, from both Hermanus High and Gansbaai Academia, plus lenses and a frame at a nominal fee of R150, as well as one free pair of glasses to a needy adult every month. Bierman Malan also sponsors the Hermanus Primary hockey team (Liandri loves the sport and was a hockey coach during her teaching years at the high school).

“It is our aim to find a solution to every customer’s problem, be it enabling them to read to their grandchildren, see on the blackboard at school, or to see, look and feel good and wear their spectacles with confidence. We also have a wide variety of branded sunglasses that always include the most up-to-date fashions.”

All the Bierman Malan practices conform to the strictest Covid-19 protocols. Appointments are scheduled one hour apart, everything is sanitised between clients and the spacious premises allow you to shop around for the right frame while keeping more than the required social distance from others.

This practice is certainly a delight to visit! Find them at 25 High Street (opposite Woolworths in the bright red building). Call them on 028 312 1810 or follow them on Facebook and Instagram so as not to miss out on their fabulous specials.

ABOVE: Bierman Malan Hermanus moved their practice to this bright red building in December. BELOW: The Bierman Malan Hermanus team in their new premises on Station Square: from left are Liandri Malan (optometrist and co-owner), Sarah Clark, Caroline Ryan and Ingrid Martin (all three optical assistants), Adrian Chimphalika (dispensing optician) and Petré Celliers (optometrist at the Gansbaai practice).

PHOTOS: Gillian Coetzee

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MY WELLNESS

How to get from chaos to calm E

ver heard of SomaSensing? In a nutshell, it is a practice that guides you to tune into your felt sense through intuitive somatic movements that trigger the healing response of your Vagus nerve, through your senses, to calm distress.

These signs of distress vary from individual to individual and may include chronic fatigue, chronic pain, anxiety, stress, inflammation, fibromyalgia, brain fog, gut issues, tinnitus, heart palpitations, hormone imbalances, or the effects of an autoimmune response and even ‘Long Covid’.

Yasmin Lambat, a registered somatic educator, trauma therapist and

founder of SomaSensing, is offering an eight-week course, starting on 20 February, which will guide you on how to heal yourself through your felt sense and restore your inner rhythm and sense of wellbeing.

“Getting to know yourself through the state of your nervous system allows you to quieten your inner critic,” says Yasmin. “Helping you to become a compassionate observer and to approach life with a sense of curiosity instead of anxiety.”

She adds that the course is not a ‘quick fix’ but a way to kick start the process of taking your healing into your own hands. “To get real and

long-lasting benefits you need to make a habit of it, but this eightweek SomaSensing guide will help you get started.”

Yasmin explains that, apart from connecting you to your body's innate ability to heal, SomaSensing practices help you to interrupt habitual patterns shaped by trauma.

“Just by becoming aware of your patterns you can interrupt them when you’re on autopilot – giving you an opportunity to self-regulate and expand your capacity to cope when life throws you off centre.”

On this course you will explore how

BUILDING INDUSTRY BARGAINING COUNCIL

soothing and nurturing somatic movements can trigger the healing response of your Vagus nerve and calm your nervous system, and how shifts in your body can not only shift your mood but also ease areas of strain and stiffness and reduce inflammation.

You will learn: How to become aware as an observer; How to know yourself through your nervous system;

How to befriend yourself with curiosity; How to heal yourself through your body. Just a few moments each day can create a shift of a lifetime.

To find out more about the eight-week course starting on 20 February, send a WhatsApp to Yasmin on 076 848 3778. The hour-long sessions will be hosted at Co.Unity on Saturdays from 07:00 – 08:00.

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Community food garden for Mt Pleasant O ne of the biggest challenges for Just Care during the lockdown was to assist the Mount Pleasant families of their aftercare children with everything from food parcels to masks, blankets and dog food. Assisted by other NPOs such as HAWS and Food4Love, founder Jacquie Rathfelder, her staff and several volunteers were able to support many families in need until their children could return to school.

Realising that a more sustainable solution was needed to feed Mount Pleasant’s families, Jacquie had many discussions with community members and approached the municipality for assistance in starting a community food garden.

With the support of LED projects coordinator Luvo Bomvana and his colleague Vuyolwethu Gwantshu, a pocket of municipal land next to the Moffat Hall was identified.

The area was cleared and fenced, water was installed, and generous donors started contributing seedlings and compost.

Beautiful wooden plant boxes were built

by Trevor Nkoyi and his team that were soon sprouting nutritious vegetables.

It was therefore a happy day when the Just Care Community Garden was officially handed over to the Mount Pleasant community, who have formed a committee that will be running the project. Luvo will be working closely with them and assist with the cultivation of the vegetables and furthering the project.

“Thank you to all the role players who worked tirelessly to get this project off the ground and to establish this garden for the benefit of the community,” said Jacquie at the handover. “It was a real collaborative effort.”

Vuyo (LED) with members of the Mount Pleasant committee, Ethel, Gaynor, Rodney, Peter, Jerome and Luvo (LED) at the handover of the Just Care Community Garden.

PHOTOS: Taylum Meyer

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10 February 2021

MY ENVIRONMENT

Conserving our beautiful Bontebok

By Dr Anina Lee

W

hat is the difference between a Bontebok and a Blesbok?

It would not be surprising if many people did not know. The two animals look very similar as they are both subspecies of a common ancestor, Damaliscus pygargus, which is no longer around. The Bontebok is Damaliscus pygargus pygargus, and the Blesbok is Damaliscus pygargus phillipsi.

So how can we tell them apart? Bontebok are dark chocolate brown with a purplish sheen. They have a continuous ‘bles’ (blaze) on the forehead and a distinct white rump. Their name incorporates the Afrikaans word ‘bont’, meaning multi-coloured.

The Blesbok are more ruddy brown, their ‘bles’ is broken into two white patches, and their rump has less white colouring.

In times past, their common ancestor occurred all over South Africa, but over time those that inhabited the southern coastline and those that inhabited the Highveld gradually evolved into genetically different sub-species. The Cape

Conservation authorities became involved and in 1931the Bontebok National Park was established near Bredasdorp for their conservation.

Attempts at breeding from this herd were successful, but despite this, they did not thrive.

Fold Mountains formed the divide. The southern subspecies, the Bontebok, evolved to eat the plants available in their fynbos biome, especially renosterveld. Their northern cousins, the Blesbok, adapted to grassier plains.

When the first settlers arrived at the Cape, the distinctions were not important. They were antelope to be shot for the pot or just for fun – because they could. Farmers deemed them to be pests as they competed for grazing with their livestock. Also, renosterveld was rapidly being ploughed up for agriculture, leaving the Bontebok with limited pasture.

The wholesale slaughter of both Bontebok and Blesbok decimated their numbers. The settlers first targeted Bontebok, living in the southern coastal areas at the Cape, so they bore the brunt of the killing. By the early 20th century there were only 17 animals of this species left and the species was well on the way to human-made extinction – just like the Bluebuck and the Quagga.

This small herd of 17 Bontebok existed on a farm near Bredasdorp in the Overberg. The farmer, more conscious of possible species extinction, or perhaps to make them easier to hunt, decided to fence them in. The fence was not very high, but it had the desired effect.

While most other antelope species would easily jump such a fence, the Bontebok could not. Like the proverbial ‘white men’, Bontebok can’t jump. This saved the species.

PHOTO: bicyclesouth.co.za

As it turned out, the pasture in the area did not provide sufficient nourishment.

It was evident that if Bontebok were to be saved from extinction, they would have to be moved. And so it came about that the whole Bontebok National Park was transferred from Bredasdorp to an area just south of Swellendam, its present location. Here their numbers rapidly increased and reached the maximum carrying capacity of this tiny Reserve, namely 200 animals.

Excess animals are actively relocated to other suitable areas, under both public and private management. They are very popular acquisitions by commercial game ranches for ‘trophy’ hunting.

While I am not a fan of hunting, it is often the commercial value of an animal that secures its survival.

The Bontebok (above) (Damaliscus pygargus pygargus) and the Blesbok (below) (Damaliscus pygargus phillipsi) look very similar as they are both sub-species of a common ancestor. Most people can’t tell them apart but if you look carefully there are subtle differences in colouring and pattern.

However, there are still concerns about their well-being because all the animals originated from such a tiny genetic pool and are therefore genetically less robust.

What can we do to help the conservation of the beautiful Bontebok? Visit the Bontebok National Park, and through our support, ensure that their protection remains financially viable.

Visit the Bontebok National Park Only a few kilometres from Swellendam and easily accessible from the N2, the Bontebok National Park is the perfect place for a day visit with family and friends.

Rhebuck, Red Hartebees, as well as many smaller mammals and around 200 species of bird.

Recently upgraded day-visitor facilities include a rest camp and recreational braai facility called ‘Die Stroom’, where you can enjoy a picnic or a braai on the banks of the Breede River, have a swim or go for a hike.

Extend your stay by camping overnight under the stars at the designated campsites within the park, or book one of the 10 chalets that each enjoy scenic views of the Breede River Valley and Langeberg Mountains from private sun decks.

Because of its small size, visitors can drive around the whole park in a few hours. It is home to Bontebok, Grey

For more information visit sanparks.org/parks/bontebok or call 028 514 2735.

10 February 2021

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A deep dive into the Dolphins of the Cape Coast – Part 2 By Jax Bath

T

his week’s ocean story is a continuation of last week’s deep dive into the dolphins of the Cape Coast. Dolphins are among the most famous of ocean creatures and perhaps the most adored. We’re very lucky to have several different species frequent our shores, each with their own adaptions to living in our oceans. In the last piece, we took a look at 3 of the 6 dolphin species commonly found along the Cape Coast.

The Common Dolphin was the first species covered, with their golden markings and transient nature. We then moved on to the largest of the dolphins, the Orca, before finishing off with South Africa’s rarest coastal cetacean, the Indian Ocean Humpback Dolphin.

sight of this species travelling along the beach or rocky coastline.

On the whale watching vessels in the area, we often spot social pods of Dolphins travelling together, although we do get the occasional loner moving through the area too. They’re a delight to watch, often enjoying surfing the swells or working together to heard schooling fish moving through the bay.

They get the name “Bottlenose” from their short, stubby rostrum or snout, though I’m not really sure a bottle is the first thing that comes to mind when getting a glimpse of their ever-smiling faces. They are grey in color, though this varies considerably between animals.

They also tend to stay out of deeper waters, preferring water less than 100m deep. At times, these dolphins are shy, but if you’re lucky, you may find them showing off their acrobatics by leaping out the water. They will also occasionally spend some time bow riding with boats. In South Africa, they tend to stay close to shore in the mornings and head out a little deeper to feed in the afternoons and evenings.

The Dusky Dolphin

Bottlenose Dolphins grow to between 2.5-4m in length and are often seen interacting with other marine mammals including whales, seals and other dolphin species.

The Heaviside dolphin

This week, we will take a look at the remaining 3 species, all of which may be sighted in the Western Cape. Of the 3 species, only the Bottlenose Dolphin is a common sight in the Overstrand, so we’ll begin our deep dive with our famous, friendly neighbors.

Last but not least, we have the Dusky Dolphins. Although they have been spotted in Walker bay a handful of times, they’re more common in cooler waters close to Cape Town. One can see anything from a small group of these stream lined voyagers to a super pod speeding about in search of a meal.

The Bottlenose dolphin

The Heaviside Dolphin is the smallest species of dolphin found along our coastline. It is endemic to the Benguela current ecosystem, found only in South Africa, Namibia and Southern Angola. These dolphins are very distinctive, with shades of grey, white and black covering their bodies and weigh up to only 75kg.

As I mentioned last week, the Bottlenose Dolphin is a household name, in part because of their portrayal in film, but also due to the variety of weird and wonderful behaviors they exhibit in nature. There are two recognized species of Bottlenose Dolphins in the world and common Bottlenose Dolphins can be found both on the coast and offshore in the open ocean.

Bottlenose Dolphin are frequently spotted of the South African coastline and both Hermanus and Gansbaai are treated to the

Typically seen in small groups starting from Hout Bay and moving towards the west, these dolphins are hard to confuse with any other species sighted off the Cape Coast. To the untrained eye, they may look like a porpoise or even a mini orca, but these dolphins are not closely related. Falling into the family “Cephalorhynchus” with 3 other smaller “blunt nosed” dolphin species, all found in temperate waters in the Southern hemisphere. One of the best ways to watch these cute little fellows is to head out on a sea kayaking excursion from Hout Bay or Sea point. They enjoy feeding on foods such as cephalopods and Hake and are generally have a small range of less than 100km.

Their beaks are short and dark in colour and the rest of their bodies beautiful with stark contrasting colours. These dolphins have white bellies, a blue-black dorsal surface and a gray blaze running through the mid-line. They are smaller and more monochrome in color than the Common Dolphins which is the only species one might confuse them with from a distance.

Reaching a size of around 1.8m in length, they are dynamite in a small package. Famed for their aerial displays, back flips and summersaults are common place in sightings of these exquisite creatures.

Dusky Dolphins are found in the Southern Hemisphere and like Heaviside Dolphins, seem to prefer cooler waters where upwelling is abundant. Like the other dolphin species along our coast, schooling fish and squid form a major part of their diet and to watch these acrobats, I recommend a boat-based whale watching tour out of the Hout Bay area.

With the opening of the beaches in recent weeks, next week’s ocean story will have us in the waters of Walker Bay, discovering all things wild and beautiful that lurk below.

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10 February 2021

MOTORING

F

on cars

Compiled by John Floyd

Ford Invests $1 Billion (R15.8) into its South African Manufacturing operations F

ord Motor Company has announced an investment of US$1.05 billion (R15.8 billion) in its South African manufacturing operations – marking the biggest investment in Ford’s 97-year history in South Africa. It also represents one of the largest-ever investments in the South African automotive industry, boosting Ford’s production capability and creating new jobs.

“This investment will further modernize our South African operations, helping them to play an even more important role in the turnaround and growth of our global automotive operations, as well as our strategic alliance with Volkswagen,” said Dianne Craig, president, Ford’s International Markets Group. “Ranger is one of our highest volume, most successful global vehicles. This investment will equip our team with the tools and facilities to deliver the best Ford Ranger ever, in higher numbers and with superior quality.”

Ford announced the investment at a media briefing attended by South African President Cyril Ramaphosa, as well as several key government leaders, including Trade, Industry and Competition Minister Ebrahim Patel, Department of Public Enterprise Minister Pravin Gordhan, Gauteng Premier David Makhura, City of Tshwane Executive Mayor Randall Williams, and senior Ford executives.

With this investment, Ford’s Silverton Assembly Plant is expected to generate revenues exceeding 1.1 percent of South Africa’s gross domestic product.

The annual installed capacity at the Silverton plant will increase to 200,000 vehicles from 168,000, supporting production of the all-new Ford Ranger pickup truck for the domestic market and export to over 100 global markets. The plant also will manufacture Volkswagen pickups trucks as part of the Ford-VW strategic alliance.

The expanded production will help create 1,200 incremental Ford jobs in South Africa, increasing the local workforce to 5,500 employees, and adding an estimated 10,000 new jobs across Ford’s local supplier network, bringing the total to 60,000.

The overall investment includes US$686 million (R10.3 billion) for extensive upgrades to the Silverton Assembly Plant that will increase production volume and drive significant improvements in production efficiency and vehicle quality.

These include construction of a new body shop with the latest robotic technology and a new high-tech stamping plant, both of which will be located on-site for the first time. Both facilities will modernize and streamline the integrated manufacturing process at Silverton while contributing to higher quality and reducing overall cost and waste.

The new stamping plant will use a high-speed line to produce all the major sheet metal components for the new Ranger. It includes a fully automated storage and retrieval system for stamping dies, which will be housed innovatively in the roof of the facility, thus eliminating related labour-intensive processes. In addition, a modern blue-light scanner system that scans surfaces for imperfections will ensure the highest-quality final product leaves the stamping plant.

Extensive upgrades also will be made to the box line, paint shop and final assembly to improve vehicle flow within the plant, along with the expansion of the container and vehicle yards.

Ford also will build new vehicle modification and training centres – the latter developed to ensure all Ford employees are equipped with the knowledge and skills required to maximize the efficiencies of the enhanced Silverton facilities.

“The extensive upgrades and new state-of-the-art manufacturing technologies will drive efficiencies across our entire South Africa operation – from sequenced delivery of parts direct to the assembly line, to increased vehicle production line speeds and precision of assembly to ensure the world-class quality that our customers expect,” said Andrea Cavallaro, director of Operations, Ford’s International Markets Group.

Island mode The new investment program builds on the recently announced Project Blue Oval renewable energy project, which aligns with the company’s global target of using 100-percent locally sourced renewable energy for all its manufacturing plants by 2035 and achieving carbon neutrality by 2050.

The first phase of Project Blue Oval already is underway with the construction of solar carports for 4,200 vehicles at the Silverton plant.

“Our aim is to achieve ‘Island Mode’, taking the Silverton Assembly Plant

completely off the grid, becoming entirely energy self-sufficient and carbon neutral by 2024,” Cavallaro said. “It will be one of the very first Ford plants anywhere in the world to achieve this status.”

Modernizing our supplier base Ford also will invest US$365 million (R5.5 billion) to upgrade tooling at the company’s major supplier factories.

“Supporting our suppliers with this new tooling will ensure we modernize together to deliver world-class quality for the all-new Ranger at higher volumes for our domestic and import customers,” Cavallaro said.

Economic growth “As part of our extensive investment in the Silverton plant, we also are building a new Ford-owned and operated chassis line in the Tshwane Automotive Special Economic Zone (TASEZ)

for this new vehicle programme,” said Ockert Berry, vice president, Operations, for Ford Motor Company of Southern Africa.

“Having this new line and our major component suppliers located adjacent to the Silverton plant in the TASEZ is key to expanding our production capacity, as parts will be sequenced directly onto the assembly line,” Berry added. “This will significantly reduce logistics costs and complexity, improve efficiency and allow us to build more Rangers for our customers.”

In addition to its representation on the TASEZ board, Ford also is working closely with all three spheres of government and relevant stateowned entities such as Transnet, in developing the Gauteng Province – Eastern Cape Province High Capacity Rail Freight Corridor. This will be a

full-service line linking the Silverton Assembly Plant and the TASEZ with Port Elizabeth, which is home to Ford’s Struandale Engine Plant and the Coega Special Economic Zone.

The GP-EC High Capacity Rail Freight Corridor will channel all of Ford’s inbound and outbound logistics exclusively through Port Elizabeth to support the higher production volumes. It is projected to create thousands of jobs within the value chain.

“Ford’s investment in our South Africa manufacturing operations underscores our ongoing commitment to deliver ever-better vehicles to our customers in South Africa and around the world, while providing opportunities for our own employees, new team members and our communities,” said Neale Hill, managing director, Ford Motor Company of Southern Africa.

10 February 2021

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R

Total Investment by investors is estimated at

R4,33 billion

Total Development

204 hectares (ha)

Manufacturing Jobs

2088

Construction Jobs

8 647

Training, Mentorship and Support of the local SMME’s

R25 million

$1.05 billion (R15.8 billion) Ford investment

to modernize South African manufacturing operations

•

US$686 million (R10.3 billion) investment in technology,

• •

“Island Mode” •

Silverton Assembly Plant will be energy self-sufficient and carbon neutral by 2024

for next-generation Ranger

upgrades and new facilities

•

Silverton Assembly Plant Pretoria, South Africa

•

•

•

4,200 vehicle bays with solar carports

Private-public partnership with government

at Silverton Assembly Plant

•

Tshwane Automotive Special Economic Zone (TASEZ)

US$365 million (R5.5 billion)

Creates 8,700 jobs

investment in vendor tooling

during Phase 1 construction,

at local suppliers

2,100 for operations

1,200 new jobs at Ford, total of 5,500 employees

•

Gauteng – Eastern Cape High Capacity Rail Freight Corridor

10,000 new jobs

Optimizing shipment of

across local supplier network,

vehicles, engines and

total 60,000

components globally

Ford South Africa

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The new BMW M5 CS

B

MW M GmbH is expanding its ranks of ultra-sporty CS models with the introduction of the BMW M5 CS (fuel consumption, combined: 11.3 – 11.1 l/100 km correspond to NEDC; 11,3 - 10,9 l/100 km correspond to WLTP, CO2 emissions, combined: 258 – 253 g/ km correspond to NEDC, 257 – 248 g/km correspond to WLTP). The limited-run, exclusive special-edition model treats four people to an extraordinary driving experience and blends standout performance attributes with an exclusive and luxurious appearance.

The 4.4-litre V8 engine with 467 kW makes the BMW M5 CS the most powerful car in the history of BMW M. Standard features include the eight-speed M Steptronic transmission with Drivelogic and the M xDrive all-wheel-drive system, which also offers a 2WD mode for pure rearwheel drive.

Rigorously applied lightweight design enables a weight saving of some 70 kilograms over the BMW M5 Competition. With retuned bearing springs at the front and rear axle and further refined damper control, the chassis has been adapted to the lower vehicle weight and the increased performance potential of the standard mixed-size Pirelli P Zero Corsa track tyres (front: 275/35 R 20, rear: 285/35 R 20).

The BMW M5 CS sprints from 0 – 100 km/h in just 3.0 seconds, and from 0 – 200 km/h in 10.4 seconds. Top speed is an electronically governed 305 km/h.

The exceptional driving experience on board the BMW M5 CS can be enjoyed by four people – the driver and front passenger in M Carbon seats and two other passengers in the individual rear seats. The black Merino leather covers (fine-grain for the front seats) also feature eye-catching contrasting panels and decorative stitching in Mugello Red. The integral head restraints – with illuminated M5 logos for the front seats – display an

outline of the legendary Nürburgring circuit.

The centre marker perforation with red background on the M Alcantara steering wheel is a classical racing car touch; the gearshift paddles are made from carbon fibre and the steering wheel spokes have Black Chrome trim.

A fixed lightweight cover on the centre console replaces the usual armrest with opening lid. Its black Merino leather is complemented by red double stitching. The colour red is used again for the “CS” badging on the instrument panel and between the bucket-style seats in the rear.

The BMW kidney grille surround on the BMW M5 CS, the “M5 CS” badges on the kidney grille, the M gills on the front wings and the boot lid are finished in the bold colour shade Gold Bronze, as are the 20 inch M forged wheels in Y-spoke design (front: 9.5 J x 20, rear: 10.5 J x 20). The door sill finishers come with illuminated “M5 CS” badges.

The L-shaped light tubes of the BMW Laser headlights illuminate yellow instead of white when low beam, high beam or the Welcome Light is switched on, bringing successful GT racing cars to mind.

The bonnet, front splitter, exterior mirror caps, rear spoiler, rear diffuser, M Power engine compartment cover and intake silencer are made from carbon fibre-reinforced plastic (CFRP). Some elements feature exposed carbon fibre.

Standard specification for the M5 CS includes its stainless-steel sports exhaust system with four unadorned tailpipes and the M Carbon ceramic brakes, whose callipers are painted in Red as standard or Gold as an option.

Available alongside the Brands Hatch Grey metallic paint shade are the exclusive BMW Individual matt paint finishes Frozen Brands Hatch Grey metallic and Frozen Deep Green

metallic.

The market launch of the new BMW M5 CS will get underway in spring 2021. A limited number of units will be introduced in South Africa in Q3 2021.

The fuel consumption and CO2 emissions figures are determined according to the European Regulation (EC) 715/2007 in the version applicable.

The figures refer to a vehicle with basic configuration in Germany. The range shown considers the different sizes of the selected wheels/tyres and the selected items of optional equipment, and may vary during configuration.

The values are based on the new WLTP test cycle and are translated back into NEDC-equivalent values in order to ensure comparability between the vehicles. With respect to these vehicles, for vehicle-related taxes or other duties based (at least inter alia) on CO2 emissions, the CO2 values may differ from the values stated here (depending on national legislation).

Further information on official fuel consumption figures and specific CO2 emission values of new passenger cars is included in the following guideline: 'Leitfaden über den Kraftstoffverbrauch, die CO2 Emissionen und den Stromverbrauch neuer Personenkraftwagen' (Guide to the fuel economy, CO2 emissions and electric power consumption of new passenger cars), which can be obtained free of charge from all dealerships, from Deutsche Automobil Treuhand GmbH (DAT), Hellmuth-Hirth-Str. 1, 73760 Ostfildern-Scharnhausen and at https://www.dat.de/co2/.

A limited number of BMW M5 CS models will be introduced in South Africa in Q3 2021.

Important note: Consumption data and data specific to the South African cars will be communicated closer to the time of local introduction.

10 February 2021

10 February 2021

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Celebrating 70: Jaguar C-type joins classic continuation family J

aguar Classic is celebrating the 70th anniversary of the legendary C-type sports racer by creating a strictly limited production run of new C-type Continuation cars, which will be hand built at Jaguar’s world-class Classic Works facility in Coventry.

The C-type Continuation programme will allow historic motor racing enthusiasts to purchase a new factory-built example of the ultimate 1953 disc-braked ‘works’ C-type direct from Jaguar for the first time.

skills and unrivalled expertise – to reintroduce this legendary car for a new generation of enthusiasts to enjoy.”

Of the 53 Jaguar C-types built in the 1950s, 43 were sold to private owners, but the production C-type specification was limited to drum-braked cars with twin SU carburettors and 200bhp, in the style of the 1951 works cars.

Eight new C-type Continuation cars will be built ahead of a racing-inspired celebration event for their owners in 2022.

The C-type, which was originally made between 1951-53, was famed for its exceptionally fluid shape by Jaguar Cars designer, aerodynamicist, and artist Malcolm Sayer.

The C-type won the gruelling Le Mans 24 Hours on its debut in 1951, scoring the first of Jaguar’s seven outright wins at the French endurance race.

From 1952, the C-type pioneered the adoption of innovative disc brake technology in motorsport, with a revolutionary system developed by Jaguar and Dunlop scoring the first win for a disc-braked car with Stirling Moss at the Reims Grand Prix in France and contesting the 1000-mile Mille Miglia in Italy.

The C-type won the Le Mans 24 Hours again in 1953, another first for disc brakes, and also enjoyed success in the hands of private owners, which contributed to Jaguar finishing vice-champion in the inaugural World Sportscar Championship.

Dan Pink, Director, Jaguar Classic, said: “Driven by some of the most-admired racing drivers in history, the C-type laid the foundations for Jaguar’s success in endurance racing and is synonymous with design and engineering innovation. Seventy years on, Jaguar Classic is proud to be able to utilise the latest innovations in manufacturing technology – alongside traditional

including Malcolm Sayer, competitions manager Lofty England, and engineers William Heynes, Bob Knight and Norman Dewis – ensure the authentic 1953 specifications are accurately maintained.

Taking that engineering CAD data a stage further, for the first time ever Jaguar Classic is also able to give customers the opportunity to visualise their C-type Continuation virtually using a specially designed online configurator. This new tool at classicvisualiser.jaguar.com allows users to compare colour and trim options from the 12 authentic exterior colours and eight interior colours available, and apply optional racing roundels, steering wheel badge and bonnet badging.

Additional options available to C-type Continuation customers include an FIA-approved Harness Retention System or rollover protection. Not just for show, these authentic new C-types will be eligible for historic racing, track and closedroad use.

Each example will reflect the 1953 Le Mans-winning works team car specification, including 3.4-litre straight-six engine with triple Weber 40DCO3 carburettors for 220bhp and disc brakes.

Building on the experience gained with previous Jaguar Classic Continuation programmes for Lightweight E-type, XKSS and D-type, Jaguar Classic engineers have consulted Jaguar’s archives and cross-referenced scan data taken from an original C-type in conjunction with the latest computer aided design technology to create the most authentic new C-type possible.

Exclusive access to original engineering drawings and company records created by the original C-type development team –

Visit www.jaguar.com/classic, where you can find more information on the full range of cars, services, parts and experiences offered by Jaguar Classic.

For more information on the Jaguar Land Rover Classic Works facility go to https://www.jaguar.com/ about-jaguar/jaguar-classic/jaguar-land-rover-classic-works-facility.html.

About Jaguar Classic Jaguar Classic is the official source of authentic cars, expert services, genuine parts and unforgettable experiences for classic Jaguar enthusiasts worldwide. Our team of highly-skilled engineers at the Jaguar Land Rover Classic Works facility in Coventry specialises in outstanding E-type Reborn restorations and building exclusive New Original Jaguar Continuation cars.

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10 February 2021

Toyota reveals the new passenger model to be built in Durban T

oyota South Africa Motors (TSAM) is pleased to announce that it will be manufacturing and selling the brand-new Corolla Cross in South Africa in the fourth quarter of the year. The model reveal, made by TSAM President and CEO Andrew Kirby at the annual State of the Motor Industry (SOMI) address, follows the company’s announcement in 2019 that it was investing R2.43 billion in the production of a new passenger vehicle in South Africa.

“As announced at the Presidential Investment Summit in November 2019, Toyota pledged to invest R2.43 billion in the production of a new passenger model, and I am so pleased to say that we are making good on that promise. We will be manufacturing this very model [Corolla Cross] in both right- and left-hand drive…on schedule...for South Africa and the rest of Africa… right here at Prospecton! The Corolla Cross is based on the acclaimed new Corolla TNGA platform and will be built on our passenger car produc-

tion line alongside the Corolla Quest,” says Kirby.

TSAM’s Executive Vice President of Manufacturing and Manufacturing Support Group, Nigel Ward, adds that the manufacturing of the new model will also include the development of three new Tier 1 and a number of Tier 2 suppliers, which is a significant step towards the transformation of the automotive value chain.

In addition to the investment, the local production of the Corolla Cross also ushers in a couple of “firsts” for TSAM’s manufacturing team at the Prospecton Plant. “This is a significant milestone for Toyota South Africa. It’s not often that we get to produce a brand-new body shape in our factory; plus it is the very first time that we will be manufacturing a Hybrid model which I believe will fast become a very popular choice. And it’s the first time for us to manufacture using the Toyota New Global Architecture (TNGA) – which allows us to keep up with global technology and trends.” says Ward.

From a skills and manufacturing point of view, TSAM believes that – besides being a crisis of unparalleled proportions – COVID- 19 has inadvertently encouraged plant production teams to be more self-reliant.

According to Ward: “Restriction on international travel due to COVID-19 necessitated that we rely on local expertise on many elements of the project instead of flying in engineers from Japan and Thailand. So, to ensure that we are on schedule to commence production in October, we have had to do a lot of things ourselves, in addition to receiving support virtually from Japan and Thailand on some occasions.

“This new model has allowed us to develop our staff. After we launched the new-generation Hilux in 2016, we recognised the need to upskill our team in all areas – sending them on extended assignments in Japan, Thailand and Europe. These opportunities allowed them to support other projects within the global Toyota network – thus skilling up on best global practices,” says Ward.

In terms of strategy, Corolla Cross aims to build on the legacy of Hilux Toughness and will be exported to 43 countries in Africa. The new model is also expected to push Toyota export volumes to about 15-20% per annum.

Toyota is projecting growth of 7% per annum in the SUV market in Africa – offering significant growth opportunities to expand production of this new model. With the Prospecton-built Hilux already dubbed “built for Africa” in some parts of the continent, the Corolla Cross has been strategically positioned to expand the local SUV line-up of Fortuner and C-HR. While the Corolla Cross shares the same TNGA (Toyota New Global Architecture) C platform with its namesake Corolla, it boasts a higher ground clearance and other attributes normally associated with an SUV (a comprehensive specification, including pricing, of the local models will shared upon product launch in the fourth quarter of 2021).

According to Kirby: "This is an ideal vehicle for our market. It provides an

exceptional balance between drivability, roominess, comfort and high-tech features – truly a game-changing SUV. It combines everything you love about Corolla with the utilitarian and rugged aesthetics of a segment-leading SUV. Overall, expectation is that the Corolla Cross will not only contribute significant sales towards the Toyota brand, but also accelerate growth mini-SUV segment, increase overall size of the passenger market in South Africa and give momentum to electrification technologies.”

In the context of the local automotive industry, the manufacturing of the Corolla Cross in South Africa brings Toyota a step closer to the industry masterplan goals. “This project couldn’t have been possible without the policy certainty that has been established by the South African Government, with the introduction of the APDP2 Trade Related Investment Measure. This car, the all-new Corolla Cross, is tangible proof of our commitment to the local motor industry, as well as the South African economy,” says Kirby.

10 February 2021

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Mahindra XUV300 receives highest ever 5-star safety rating

M

ahindra South Africa, part of the USD 19.4 billion Mahindra Group, today announced that its compact SUV, the XUV300, has been awarded the highest 5-Star Safety Rating by Global NCAP. With this global recognition, the XUV300 becomes the first ever vehicle in Africa to score the highest safety rating among cars tested so far by Global NCAP. The XUV300 has also become one of the vehicles in Africa to score a 4-Star child safety rating.

It is noteworthy that side-impact performance is a pre-requisite for a 5-Star safety rating, and the XUV300 side-impact performance has been one of the best among all 5-star-rated cars.

The #SaferCarsForAfrica safety rating shows that XUV300 received 5-star rating for its adult protection in the GNCAP crash tests with the

highest ever score. The XUV300 sets a new safety benchmark for Africa.

“Mahindra has made a public commitment to provide the safest vehicles possible and the GNCAP rating is a welcome accolade and a first for Africa from the global authority on vehicle safety tests. It is also a sign of things to come from all future models of Mahindra,” says Arvind Mathew, Chief of International Operations at Mahindra & Mahindra.

According to Rajesh Gupta, CEO of Mahindra South Africa, “A 5-star rating from the GNCAP is the best-possible confirmation that safety is integrated into the very design and structure of the Mahindra XUV300. If one combines the vehicle’s passive safety with its performance, including its exemplary road holding and

dynamic handling, it is the perfect SUV for the South African family. It boasts of an unmatched value proposition in terms of style, safety, performance and features.”

The Mahindra XUV300, with its many segment-leading safety features including 7 airbags, disc brakes on all 4 wheels, front parking sensors and heated outside rear-view mirrors (ORVMs) for improved visibility, offers fortress-like safety that is unmatched.

FORTRESS-LIKE SAFETY IN XUV300 The XUV300 offers some class leading and bestin-segment safety features*: • Class leading 7 airbags, including knee airbag, dual-front, side and curtain airbags.

• First-in-class front parking sensors • ISOFIX child seat mounts

• Disc brakes on all 4 wheels • Heated ORVMs • Electronic stability program with Dynamic Steering Torque, Hydraulic Brake Assist, Rollover Mitigation and Traction Control, together with Hill Start Assist.

• ABS and Electronic Brakeforce Distribution (EBD) standard across all variants • Front and rear fog lamps • Tyre-tronics (Tyre pressure and temperature monitoring system) • Seat belt reminder for all seats • 3-point seat belt on all seats (the Indian model has a lap belt in the rear-middle seat, while the South African model has three-point belts on all rear seats, which addresses the GNCAP note on four-star child protection). * Specifications vary by model.

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