The Village NEWS 16 - 29 January 2018 by The Village NEWS

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Village

The

Mayoral Entrepreneurial Winner

16 - 29 January 2018

Cape Whale Coast

ONRUS LAGOON

FREE COPY

RUDOLPH SMITH

Safety concerns

MATRICS 2017

Celebrating a leader

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Shining results

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BELISSIMO! Italian kitesurfing champion Erik Volpe took some time to practice in the Klein River Lagoon early in the new year. His impressive array of tricks soon caught the attention of boys playing in the water and it wasn’t long before he loaded the laughing and ecstatic boys onto his back to give them the ride of their lives. With soaring January temperatures the order of the day, Grotto beach and the lagoon has become a beehive of activity for those looking to cool down. Reader Sue Jones Minnaar and her daughter, Shannon were on hand to enjoy the moment. PHOTO: Shannon Jones

Muted season for the Cape Whale Coast De Waal Steyn

he annual high season when the number of people in towns on the Cape Whale Coast usually doubles, has delivered a mixed bag of results this year with lower than normal occupancy levels and flat trading results for businesses. “This was quite the interesting

season as the occupancy in the Overstrand doubles during this time of year and our towns become beehives of activities. But we saw clear signs of the tough economic climate in the country as visitors tightened their purse strings,” says Frieda Lloyd, Cape Whale Coast Tourism Manager. According to Frieda, the consensus is that the season started later than normal this

year. “Usually towns become busy as soon as the schools close and high season starts around 16 December when traditionally many businesses close for the year. This year, however, the bulk of visitors only arrived shortly before Christmas. “This left many business owners concerned about reaching their income targets. Luckily once the holidaymakers arrived, trading picked

up considerably. What is interesting to note is that holidaymakers stayed for shorter periods this year. In the past they would come for Christmas and New Year before leaving. This year there was a definite trend that they either came only for Christmas or New Year,” says Frieda. Restaurants in general reported flat earnings, with some claiming a 40% drop in turnover compared to last year,

while others showed a moderate growth in turnover, mostly in the single digits. Most restaurants that opened on Christmas and New Year’s Day were fully booked. Rick Oosthuizen of Tapas says one must be pragmatic about turnover during season. “Although we are down on last year’s figures there are many factors to take into consideration. This year we had perfect beach weather and

holidaymakers spent their days on the beach. Late afternoon they returned home after skipping lunch and opted to rather eat at home, especially with balmy evenings being great for a braai. “Two years ago, we had a lot of rainy and inclement weather which led to packed restaurants and a resultant increase in turnover,” says Rick. Read more on P3

16 - 29 January 2018

WS E

The Team 6 Royal Street Hermanus

028 312 2234

Publishing Editor dewaal@thevillagenews.co.za

THE

NEWS

OPINION Matters

Looking forward to 2018 The new year has started, and The Village NEWS is poised to bring our readers all the news they can use, with a few surprises thrown into the mix, including the launch of the Service Excellence Awards. After the holiday season our towns have returned to their default setting of offering a relaxed atmosphere and being the best place in the country to live.

Content Editor

Hedda Mittner 083 645 3928 hedda@thevillagenews.co.za

Design and Layout

Nickey Jackson 079 408 7722 nickey@thevillagenews.co.za

It is, however, with great sadness that we say farewell to Mayor Rudolph Smith. Rudolph became known as the man who always smiled and someone who took the time to befriend residents from all walks of life. Under his leadership the Overstrand continued its path of growth and reconciliation. His passion for the people and his unwavering belief in doing the right thing will be sorely missed. We wish the council the best of luck as they regroup in the new year to resume their duties. Last year saw several issues

arise that will come to a head in 2018. These include the Fernkloof Nature Reserve Integrated Management Plan, the bylaw on dogs on leashes and the management of baboons in town. Also on the agenda will be the water quality of especially the Onrus lagoon and the complaints about the Sundown Beach Lounge at Kammabaai. We will continually keep you informed of the latest happenings. Another issue that will be closely monitored in the coming year will be the impact of the Whale Coast Mall not only on the Hermanus CBD but also the other towns in our region. While the mall is a great addition to our town, we urge residents and visitors to still support independent, local businesses. These businesses are the backbone of our economy and deserve our patronage. After a quieter than normal season we all look forward to another year filled with positive highlights. This is the good NEWS - ED

WHERE TO FIND US Office Administrator

Tania Hamman admin@thevillagenews.co.za

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Rina de Wet 083 604 0808 rina@thevillagenews.co.za

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The Village NEWS is published fortnightly and the next edition will be available on 30 January. The NEWS can be found at over 100 distribution points on the Cape Whale Coast, from Kleinmond to Gansbaai.

PHOTO: Christo Brits, Kleinmond Christo Brits from Kleinmond was on hand to record this brilliant image when the NSRI Hermanus was also called out in December to disentangle a Southern Right whale.

Fixing what we broke: tale of a whale Over the festive season there were emergencies of many different kinds. One such emergency was a call to the National Sea Rescue Institute (NSRI) to rush to the aid of a whale that appeared to be in distress. On Friday 5 January concerned residents alerted NSRI Hermanus to unusual behaviour by a group of whales near Hangklip that had not moved for many hours, raising suspicions that one of the whales may be entangled.

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NSIR launched two sea rescue craft, with Hermanus volunteers from the SA Whale Disentanglement Network (SAWDN) on board with their specialised cutting equipment – in case it was a case of entanglement.

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On reaching the whales, it was soon clear that a Bryde (pronounced ‘Brooder’) Whale calf was caught in rope attached to a floatation buoy. The rope was entangled round the calf’s tail and through its mouth. Buoy ropes attached to crayfish or octopus traps are a

constant hazard to marine life – as are shark nets and fishing nets. One would think that it would be an easy matter to cut the rope and free ‘Willy’. Not so. It is a highly skilled operation. Whales in distress can be very unpredictable and rescue volunteers have been killed. It is also important to strategise exactly where the entangled rope should be cut and in what sequence so that the animal is released from all the entangling rope before it is free to swim away. The SAWDN disentanglement equipment looks a bit like a long pole with a hooked cutting blade at the end. The rescue was an amazing drama at sea.The experienced crew managed to successfully disentangle the calf, allowing it to re-unite with its mother who had lingered in the area. We commend both the NSRI and SAWDN for a job well done in the service to our marine wildlife. Whale entanglement is a

growing problem. It’s hard to assess the full extent, but a recent report estimated that 308 000 whales and dolphins die annually due to entanglement in fishing gear. It is thought that only 10% of entanglements are ever reported. More still die in marine debris. Animals such as seals, penguins, turtles and sharks are all victims of our carelessly discarded rubbish. Another rescue in False Bay was described in a blog Earth under my Feet (Karen Larson): “I watched it trying desperately to free itself from the web of rope twisted around its tail and then the dramatic attempts to free it. It was an incredibly dangerous situation – the whale was frantic and highly distressed, blowing and lashing its tail. And lest we forget their size – it was at least three times the size of the NSRI boat.” These hazards to marine life are man-made. We must fix what we broke. Anina Lee Whale Coast Conservation

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Visitors enjoyed eventful holiday From P1

laundry being high on their agenda.

Dieter Lauff of Function Hire says they had an exceptionally good season. “The last few years there was a trend that people will host friends and families at restaurants for celebrations. This year there was a definite trend to rather host parties at home. In most instances clients stated price as the deciding factor for rather hosting their own party than going to a restaurant.”

Wine Farms Most wine farms reported an increase in the volume of wine sales, despite a decrease in visitor numbers. “The wine farms in the Overberg have over the last few years put a lot of effort into staff training, marketing and creating the infrastructure to draw visitors to their cellars.

Other businesses reported brisk trade from shortly before Christmas to early in the new year. It was, however clear that high-end products were less in demand than previous years, with shoppers settling for cheaper products. According to Frieda large food retailers reported good trade. There were, however, instances of local shops increasing their prices on certain products by between 35% and 55% during the season. “These businesses obviously lost out on a lot of trade, especially in tough economic times when people turn over every penny.” Occupancy Occupancy levels in towns were good with Hermanus and Stanford reporting occupancy rates exceeding 90%. Occupancy levels at the caravan parks and camping sites in Gansbaai were more than 90%, with other accommodation establishments reporting occupancy of between 65% and 80%. Despite visitor numbers being down, accommodation bookings through the Kleinmond Tourism office increased. Kogelberg Nature Reserve reported a 23% increase in walk-in visitors while the accommodation showed a 58% increase. Interestingly there were many return visitors to the area, especially from the Cape Peninsula. “This could be attributed to the extreme water restrictions in Cape Town. Many return visitors mentioned the prospect of taking a bath and doing

“This investment has paid dividends. Even Bosman Family Vineyards, the new kid on the block in Hemel-en-Aarde, reported brisk trade at their cellar door, while the hiking trails and picnics were also popular. All the events held at wine farms in the area were very well attended, with some annual events showing growth on last year,” says Frieda. Events and activities During December alone more than 70 major events were hosted in the Overstrand, apart from a multitude of smaller promotions and special offerings. There were more than 50 activities hosted in Stanford and surrounds during December alone. Activities for children or where children could be included remained extremely popular. The Jesse Clegg concert at Sumaridge drew more than 750 people, doubling its attendance for the third year in a row. The Summer Run in Hermanus drew more than 2 000 participants.

Lomond trail run had 300 participants and on New Year’s Day 700 people visited the Farm Garden in De Kelders. Despite several complaints from locals regarding the Sundown Beach Lounge at Kammabaai and calls for the immediate shutdown of the venue, it proved to be very popular among both locals and holidaymakers. Whale Coast Mall The new Whale Coast Mall was welcomed by residents and locals alike with more than 20 000 shoppers going to the mall daily. The week before Christmas was the busiest with close on 160 000 people visiting the mall. According to Marketing Manager Andrea van Rensburg, tenants said they were very satisfied with their first season’s trade. With no trading history to work from, some restaurants at the mall reported shortages of certain stock during the season. The mall also attracted a lot of comments on social media with especially the cinema and McDonald’s being a hot topic of discussion. While most comments were positive, the bad service and quality of food at McDonald’s, the lack of security in the parking lot and lack of parking for the elderly drew the most negative comments. Despite initial teething problems, the cinema proved to be a popular attraction.

The Summer of Touch touchrugby series drew unprecedented crowds to both Onrus and Kleinmond, where the event was hosted for the first time this year. Organisers expected about 20 teams at Kleinmond and were pleasantly surprised when 54 teams entered on the day.

Traffic and crime The banning of fireworks was well received by the public and very few incidents, even during Christmas and New Year, were reported. According to Overstrand Traffic Chief Rudi Fraser, several shops that sold illegal fireworks were raided by Law Enforcement and the SAPS and large quantities were confiscated.

More than 2 000 spectators watched contestants in the Trans Agulhas Boat Race stop for the 4th stage at Uilkraalsmond, while the

“Our planning for the season was spot-on and resulted in a reduction of incidents during the season. There was good cooperation

between all the law enforcement agencies and the public also assisted. There were regular roadblocks and random breath testing operations were conducted throughout. There were no fatalities on our roads,” says Rudi. According to him all major routes were very busy, while the Whale Coast Mall did have an impact on traffic patterns. “With the concentration of traffic at the mall we experienced less congestion in the CBD. It also made our task of managing the traffic a lot easier.” Rudi says he is aware of the negative feedback with regards to the ticketing of vehicles in Voëlklip and Eastcliff that parked on sidewalks or were parked facing the opposite direction. “We did not target these vehicles and suburbs as we were way too busy in other areas. We did, however, respond to complaints as vehicles parked on the sidewalks create dangerous obstructions. We would like to thank the public for their cooperation in this regard,” he says. According to Frieda a pamphlet listing all emergency numbers were distributed during welcome campaigns in all the towns at the start of the season. “We also held meetings with SAPS, security companies and Hermanus Public Protection (HPP) to ensure that tourists could be assisted should they suffer inconvenience or injury due to a robbery or attack, especially after the numerous robberies on the cliff paths and some beaches just before the start of the season. “HPP also produced a pamphlet wit a map of the Hermanus Cliff Path as well as safety tips that was distributed during December. Various incidents of cyclists attacked on the R43 at Hawston were reported and incidences of theft at Onrus Caravan Park reached alarming figures. In the course of one week bicycles to the value of R250 000 were stolen at Onrus Caravan Park,” says Frieda.

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Water quality of Onrus lagoon in the spotlight Hedda Mittner

hile residents and holidaymakers flocked to the everpopular Onrus beach and lagoon (estuary) over the festive season, the question of pollution again reared its head and led to some confusion about the possible health risks posed by swimming in the estuary. Water samples are routinely taken by the Environmental Services Department of the Overstrand Municipality (OM) from all the estuaries in the Overstrand, including Onrus, and tested by an accredited laboratory for E.Coli and enterococci, two accepted indicators of possible faecal pollution. Signage was erected at the Onrus Estuary by the Municipality prior to the season that indicate the current levels of enterococci.

Formed in October last year to allow civil society organisations to participate in the implementation of the Onrus River Estuary Management Plan, OREF has engaged with government agencies to manage the pollution problem as a top priority. Shaped under the auspices of the OM, in accordance with the National Integrated Coastal Management Act, the OREF is chaired by retired water engineer Peter van Niekerk with Paul de Villiers as vice chair.

‘Swimming at own risk’ was, and remains, the general message, but most beach revellers were uncertain about what this all means and how safe the water is for swimming.

Also on the committee is Rob Fryer, General Manager of Whale Coast Conservation (WCC), who erected an information notice at the estuary just before the start of the holiday season. The sign had a QR code link to a website page that could be accessed by the public (whalecoastconservation.org.za/goinggreen/eco -community/onrus-riverestuary-lagoon/). The website page gives a simple explanation of the meaning of the bacteriological data and the current status of the water quality and associated health risks.

Concerns about the water quality of the Onrus estuary have been an ongoing issue over the years and is now being tackled head-on by the Onrus River Estuary Forum (OREF).

“Unfortunately municipal officials had the notice removed because prior permission hadn't been given for it to be displayed,” says Rob. “An official application has been

made to display the notice and it is hoped that the required authorisation will be given quickly.” According to Rob, WCC analysed the bacteriological data from water samples taken by the OM and analysed by a Merieux NutriSciences (Swift) laboratory. “The guidelines advocate using statistical methods to determine the overall recreational health of water,” says Rob. “For the water quality to be considered ‘good’, with an associated risk of gastrointestinal infection less than 5%, the enterococci level should be less than 200 cfu/100 ml. “Using these guidelines, the Onrus Estuary is consistently rated as ‘poor’ (unsatisfactory) and the risk of contracting gastrointestinal infections by using it recreationally is greater than 8.5%. Over the season, the 90th percentile of enterococci from data taken over 20 weeks has been 460 cfu/100ml, with individual sample test results being much higher.” Several opinions recently expressed on social media platforms criticised the OM for not closing the estuary for recreational use over the season. There were also unconfirmed reports of children getting sick with gastrointestinal tract infections after

swimming in the lagoon. While Rob agrees that the water is polluted and that the public should be aware of the high health risk of swimming in the estuary due to bacterial contamination, he also points out that the responsibility for closing the estuary to the public does not lie with the local OM. “Where the pollution levels exceed safe limits, such as in the Onrus estuary, the Overberg District Municipality (ODM) is responsible for making the public aware of the health risks by erecting warning signs,” says Rob. “Only the ODM can take the decision to put up a ‘No Swimming’ sign.” This illustrates one of the core issues that OREF wants to address in the coming months: while the Onrus estuary, and all other estuaries within the Overstrand, falls wholly within the boundaries of the local OM, there is currently no government management authority actively coordinating estuary management activities. “That is why the OREF was established by representatives from civil society organisations as a formally constituted NGO and will play a pivotal role in aiding the coordination of government agencies re-

sponsible for the various estuarine management activities and to monitor the implementation of EMP,” says Rob. So where is the pollution coming from and whose responsibility is it to rectify the matter? “There are many potential sources of pollution, some of which are under the control of the OM,” says Rob. “The OM has addressed a major part of the likely sources of contamination, including the so-called Kidbrooke sewage pipeline and private septic tanks of properties close to the estuary. As far as we know, there have been no sewage system failures this season that have led to spillages, but OREF has requested that a formal HAZOP (Hazard & Operability) study be carried out to determine the vulnerability to sewage spills when all pumps are incapacitated during failures. The results will determine what action is required to address this issue.” The chairperson of OREF, Peter van Niekerk, emphasises that more research needs to be done in order to pin-point possible sources of pollution. “The OM has been very supportive and inspection of the septic tanks in the residential area around the estuary has already been carried out, with several being upgraded. The OM has also undertaken to expand the area of inspections.

“This is, however, a complex issue and there are many factors that have to be taken into account, including long-term temperature and rainfall data. A proper, scientific study needs to be commissioned to identify the causes of the high enterococci test results.” Rob adds that property owners should have their septic tanks pumped out regularly, as overfull tanks are a prime suspect source of bacterial contamination, which is why OREF will be suggesting to the OM that mandatory pumping of septic tanks is implemented on a regular basis. The other concerns of the OREF relate to sorting out the protocol for dealing with information about the recreational water quality and deciding on whether or not to close the estuary to swimming. The OREF leadership and senior representatives of the local Overstrand and Overberg District Municipalities, the BreedeGouritz Catchment Management Agency, Department of Environmental Affairs and Development Planning and the Department of Agriculture are meeting on 19 January to work out a plan to address these issues. The OREF leadership has presented a proposal to the officials on what it believes needs to be considered as priorities for the government agencies to tackle.

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Rudolph Smith: father, brother, friend and leader Rudolph Smith was appointed as Overstrand Mayor after the municipal elections in August 2016.

Overstrand says its goodbyes to Mayor Rudolph Smith Hedda Mittner

memorial service for the late Executive Mayor of the Overstrand, Ald Rudolph Smith, who died on 5 January, was held on a sweltering afternoon in the Thusong Hall in Hawston on 10 January. Attending the service was a large number of family and friends, colleagues, municipal officials and dignitaries, including the Premier of the Western Cape, Helen Zille. Throughout the proceedings a slide show with images of the late mayor, shown on a screen to one side of the stage, reminded mourners of the countless ways he had interacted with the communities of the Overstrand and the huge impact he had made during his short tenure as mayor. In all the images, whether he was speaking at an official function, handing out awards, cutting a ribbon, laying a wreath, standing next to a sports field in all weather, or rolling up his sleeves to wash dishes at the Bhuki Café or participate in a coastal cleanup operation, Ald Rudolph Smith was smiling on every one of the photos. And that is undoubtedly how he will be remembered by all who knew him.

Deputy Mayor of the Overberg District Municipality and programme director of the memorial service, Archie Klaas, said the event was not an opportunity for people to be sad but to celebrate the life and achievements of a remarkable man who had lived a good life and made a huge contribution. Among the speakers who paid homage to the late mayor were Masizole Mnqasela, leader of the DA in the Overstrand, who thanked Rudolph’s family for “lending him to us”. He described Rudolph as a man who was loved by people from all walks of life and as “a true activist and an ardent leader who was born to serve”. A clearly moved Ald Dudley Coetzee, acting Overstrand Mayor, said it was fitting that Rudolph’s service was held in Hawston because he cared passionately for his community and was keen to serve his people. Cllr Benet Molefe of the EFF described him as “a true gentleman and a man of his word” who was popular among his colleagues, even members of the opposition. “As small as he was, he was a tough guy,” said Cllr Simphiwe Tebele of the ANC fondly.

“Rudolph was always full of jokes but he did not shy away from making tough decisions.” Several of the speakers, including Cllr Tebele, switched over to Afrikaans, because “Rudolph loved his moedertaal”. Other speakers included the provincial leader of the DA Western Cape and Minister of Human Settlements Bonginkosi Madikizela, and Provincial Minister of Finance Dr Ivan Meyer, who both remembered Rudolph for his ability to mediate and find solutions. “He was a brother to all, was always smiling and harboured no animosity,” said Madikizela.

In an interview the day after the election results were made public, the friendly and always smiling Rudolph said he looked forward to the challenges of being mayor. “I want to put my stamp on the Overstrand. There are many things that need attention and it is my intention to systematically work through all the problems with all the stakeholders and find solutions that are in the best interest of our communities.” Sadly his term as mayor came to an abrupt end only a year and four months later when he died on 5 January 2018, following an operation to remove a benign brain tumour. Born in Botrivier on 10 June 1967, Rudolph Smith completed primary school in Botrivier and matriculated from Swartberg Sekondêr before entering trade unionism as a career. “I have always been involved in trade unions and my qualifications are in that field, apart from a short stint in the insurance industry,” Rudolph said during an interview in 2016.

Premier Helen Zille concluded the service by addressing Rudolph’s mother, Margaret Smith. “You can be proud of the steadfast and principled son you raised,” she said, emphasising that Rudolph did not enter politics to serve himself but to serve the interests of his community and fight for their welfare. All the speakers expressed their heartfelt condolences to Rudolph’s family.

Rudolph moved to the Overstrand from Swellendam in 2008 after the then Mayor, Theo Beyleveldt, convinced him to join the Democratic Alliance (DA). In 2008 he was elected as Chair of the Walkerbay Branch of the DA. In 2009 he became a DA councillor and in 2011 he was chosen as Ward Councillor for Ward 8 (Hawston, Fisherhaven and Honingklip). In 2014 Rudolph was elected as Deputy Mayor.

The funeral service for the late mayor was held on Saturday 13 January, also at the Thusong Hall, before he was laid to rest in Bot River.

Although not an active sportsman himself, Rudolph was an avid supporter of the Stormers and faithfully followed tennis and athletics. “I get my exercise

Rudolph Smith 10 June 1967 – 5 Janaury 2018 from walking and I try and live an active life and believe in living healthy. To that end I eat a lot of fruit,” he told me. Asked whether he preferred red or white wine, Rudolph was quick to answer: “Neither. I do not drink any alcohol, simply because I never have. I have not developed a taste for it and prefer water or a glass of juice.” The Afrikaans language was dear to him. “I read a lot of Afrikaans books, watch Afrikaans movies and listen to Afrikaans music. Not the doef, doef, doef kind. The good music. The kind you can dance to.” Rudolph leaves behind his mother Margaret, two daughters Rowena and Ruby, his fiancée Sheraldeen Tarentaal, three brothers and three sisters. The Overstrand Municipality paid homage to Ald Rudolph Smith as a proud servant of the people. “He was a humble man that

stood resolute in his purpose at all times. As a community leader, Alderman Smith dedicated his life to uplifting disadvantaged communities, the forgotten and frail. As a man he wanted to be a symbol of hope. He wanted to inspire people to break through glass ceilings and break down boundaries which kept people imprisoned and enslaved. “Rudolph Smith was a proud man, a man of faith, dedication and loyalty. He stood for the righteous, the honourable and the virtuous, whilst unreservedly fighting exploitation, dishonesty and corruption. “As mayor, he was not just our first citizen; he was our friend, our father, our brother and our son. He was forthright, outspoken and unreservedly loyal. He led our region with progressive charm, immense pride and an abundance of humanity. We salute you and thank you for your service.” – De Waal Steyn

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Overberg schools still best in the province Hedda Mittner

he first week in January is usually a time of nervous anticipation for our towns’ matric learners as they await the announcement of their results along with the rest of the country.

a total of 70 districts, with a pass rate of 87.7%. Addressing the province’s Matric Awards Ceremony, held at Leeuwenhof in Cape Town on 11 January, Western Cape Premier Helen Zille congratulated the Western Cape learners who took the top two spots country-wide – Janke van Dyk from Bellville High School, who was SA’s top achiever, and Matthys Carstens from Durbanville High School, who was placed second.

When the results of the 2017 National Senior Certificate (NSC) examinations were released on 5 January, many breathed a sigh of relief (as, no doubt, did their fraught parents) because, as in previous years, the learners of the Overstrand did our schools proud.

The top achiever in South Africa in 2016 was Con-rad Strydom from Hermanus High School.

While 82.8% of learners in the Western Cape passed the 2017 NSC exam, it was again the Over-berg that took top honours as the best-performing district out of the eight school districts in the Western Cape. The Overberg also achieved 10th place in the country, out of

The 2017 matric class of Hermanus High School again achieved a 100% pass rate and further excelled by achieving 23 A aggregates. The A candidates are Francesca Middleton (93.3%), Meaka Garland (91.7%), Chizelle de Wet (91.2%), Daniel Landes

(90.2%), Misha van Zyl (88.8%), Zainab Khafif (88.7%), Kayla Swartz (87.8%), Klara van Rooyen (87.3%), Natalie Austin (87%), Alissa Coetzee (86.5%), Shana Horn 86.5%, Dabin Kim (86.5%), Adie Heunis (85.5%), Franco Swarts (85%), Rachel Templer (84.7%), Georgia Moore (84.3%), Jean Barkhuizen (84.2%), Amy Hess (83.8%), Malaika Jones (82.5%), Robert King (81.7%), Dehan Scheepers (81.67%), Ann Marie Swart (80.2%) and Ivan Bresler (80%). Hermanus High boasts 217 subject distinctions and 137 out of 178 candidates (77%) achieved a Bachelor Degree pass (university exemption). “We are very pleased with these outstanding results and I’d like to congratulate all our matric learners,” said Principal Greg Hassenkamp. “I also want to thank the parents and Governing Body for their support in achieving these results. Above all the school would like to thank the staff,

who continue to go over and beyond the call of duty, for their dedicated service.” Curro Hermanus Independent School has achieved a 100% pass rate for the third year running since their first matric class graduated in 2015. Among the 21 matrics who wrote the 2017 Independent Examination Board (IEB) examinations, 77% achieved university exemption. Their topperforming student is Jana Bierman with 4 subject distinctions. Northcliff House College achieved a 94.4% pass rate and a total of 13 subject distinctions. Of the 18 matriculants, 9 achieved a Bachelor Degree pass, 7 a Diploma pass and one a Higher Certificate pass. The school’s top matriculant is Hope Botha, who achieved 4 distinctions, while Matthew Jones came in second, also boasting 4 distinctions.

Qhayiya Secondary School achieved an 83.5% pass rate which is slightly down from the previous year’s pass rate of 88.5%. However, Principal Nkosilungile Lolwana said the school is very pleased with the results, especially since the number of matriculants doubled from only 87 in 2016 to 170 in 2017.

passes increased from 10.8% in 2016 to 11.6% in 2017, while the number of Diploma passes went up from 44.1% to 47.4%. The school achieved a total of 4 subject distinctions and the top-performing student is Logan Farao with an average of 72%.

Of those, 142 passed their exams – 36 achieved a Bachelor Degree pass (21.2%), 69 a Diploma pass (40.6%) and 37 a Higher Certificate pass (21.8%). Qhayiya’s top learner is Phelokazi Mbokotwana, who achieved an average of 72.6%.

Gansbaai Academia’s pass rate went down from 95.2% in 2016 to 82.2% in the 2017 NSC exam. However, the school is overjoyed by the achievements of their two A aggregate learners, Llewelyn Davids and Heinrich van der Merwe. Llewelyn is the first matric of Gansbaai Academia to achieve 7 subject distinctions and an average of 88.8%.

Hawston Secondary School had reason to celebrate their matric results as the school’s pass rate has increased from 73.5% in 2016 to 78.9% in 2017. Of the 95 matrics who wrote the 2017 NSC exam, 75 passed. Furthermore, the number of matrics that achieved Bachelor Degree

With this excellent performance Llewelyn was among the top matrics in the Western Cape who were invited to the Matric Awards ceremony at Leeuwenhof on 11 January. The school is equally proud of Heinrich, who achieved 6 distinctions and an average of 83.8%.

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CONGRATULATIONS HERMANUS HIGH! Some of Hermanus High’s 23 matrics who made the school proud by receiving A aggregates in the 2017 NSC exam gathered at the school on 5 January to get their results. From left in front are Dehan Scheepers, Amy Hess, Kayla Swartz, Fransesca Middleton, Misha van Zyl, Alissa Coetzee, Chizelle de Wet and Georgia Moore. At the back are Dabin Kim, Franco Swarts, Adie Heunis, Robert King, Natalie Austin, and Klara van Rooyen.

THEIR SMILES SAY IT ALL Thalika Janse van Vuuren, Bianca Mulder, Jeani Barkhuizen, Bianca Rust, Mia Lubbe and Zaanru Fraser were delighted with their matric results.

FOUR YOUNG MEN WITH BIG FUTURE PLANS Nielen Gertse and Rowan Peterson are looking forward to starting their training to become Law Enforcement officers, while Eugene Prince will be studying sport science and Eljay Sauls has received a bursary to study engineering. PHOTOS: Taylum Meyer, Titanium Photography

PROUD PARENTS Gertie and Calvin Duncan were among the parents who accompanied their children to their respective schools on 5 January. In the centre is their son JP with girlfriend Dané van Tonder. JP is looking forward to studying IT this year.

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THE

NEWS

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

Sad day for Hermanus if Council approves Fernkloof IMP The Municipal Manager (Official statement on Fernkloof plans, 5 December 2017) and then the Mayor (Statement from DA Caucus on Fernkloof IMP, 12 December 2017) have recently written in The Village NEWS about the draft Integrated Management Plan (IMP) for the Fernkloof Nature Reserve, prepared by the Municipality’s Planning and Infrastructure Department.

the plan will go to Province for a final decision. As they write, the implication is that a plan will be approved by Council; no other option is put forward.

The Municipal Manager holds that no one should criticise officials when they are simply carrying out their duties. The Mayor tells fellow DA Councillors that they may not do/say anything about an issue (such as this) before it reaches Council.

Since the draft plan was made public: ■ Countless organisations and individuals have fundamentally criticised the plan; ■ At the only public meeting held there was a torrent of criticism of the plan; ■ It is understood that there have been numerous further objections; and ■ The views of the Municipality’s own Fernkloof Advisory Board have continued to be ignored.

Both of the above state that after Council’s consideration

Reacting to the above is part of due process. Surely, failure

to carry out that process means that the Executive Mayor should not allow the draft plan to serve before Council. Greater Hermanus is a classic example of ribbon development. A partial answer to seeking further areas for development here should not lie in carving out chunks from a nature reserve and making other intrusions into that reserve. Town planning is a Municipal function; so too is doing everything it possibly can to safeguard our nature reserve. It will be a very sad day for Hermanus (and the local DA) if the draft plan is approved by the Council. Dr John Truswell

PHOTO: Dr Martin Briggs

A third road to Greyton I was intrigued to read the article, Explore the hidden gems of the Overberg by Jaqueline Dowling, in the 19 December 2017 issue of The Village NEWS, since we travel from Hermanus to Greyton regularly. However, our favourite route is a third way to this gem of a town. Leaving Stanford on the Klein River Pass, with the Klein River Mountains on your left, one passes the cellar of Raka Wine Estate between Stanford and the N2. Boschrivier, further along on the R326, offers wine tasting, a coffee shop, homemade preserves and accommodation. Van Brakel Stoor, a

farm stall, restaurant and conference facility, lies nestled between the rolling hills of the Overberg. It is located just off the intersection of the R326 and R316 and boasts a rich and interesting history dating back to the early 1950s, when the store was operated as a local grocery store and mechanical repair shop for the farmers in the area. At the T-junction on the N2, turn right and then left at the sign for Khomeesdrif. ‘Rykie’ Swart will usually welcome you at Khomeesdrif, on the right of the gravel road, where we set up camp. We cross the Riviersonderend on a narrow bridge

and by turning left at the Tjunction, reach Greyton. On the way back to our camp, we find, by taking a right turn, we cross the Riviersonderend again, to arrive back at Khomeesdrif. Farm workers’ cottages, stone buildings, and freshly shorn sheep may be encountered along the road. There is also a cemetery on your right. A small sign next to the cemetery declares “Ou Kaapse Hoofweg (Old Cape Highway)1870 – 1950, Opgerig 1953” and the gravestones illustrate the history of this region. Dr Martin Briggs

Municipality should be applauded for progressive decisions Thank you for maintaining an excellent community newspaper, one that serves our town well. I particularly enjoy the positive tone of The Village News and the sharing of exiting developments that will aid our town as it continues to grow – which it has to in order to ensure harmony amongst the diverse residents of our burg. I wish to respond to the letter of complaint directed at the Municipality regarding the pop-up beach lounge that operated at Kammabaai in December (Unanswered questions over ’inappropriate’ beach lounge, 19 December 2017). When I first saw the advertisements for the Kammabaai lounge I was pleasantly surprised by the forward-looking attitude of our municipal managers. Hermanus definitely needs more venues where visitors can enjoy the atmosphere right on the seafront, particularly on the eastern side of town where the swimming beaches are and from where sunsets are best enjoyed. There are many quiet coves and viewpoints along our splendid cliff path for solitude and quiet reflection, but as a coastal tourist destination we need to provide variety in our high-season offering.

beaches on any given afternoon – including on Kammabaai and Nannies’ Cove. After reading the letter of complaint about the “abomination” in your last issue, I polled the views of more than a dozen Hermanus homeowner friends, including a number in close proximity to the facility. The feedback was either neutral or positive, with the common view expressed that it provided a great alternative place to meet friends. An accessible Kammabaai pop-up simply provides an alternative on busy days, and is always good for competition. I also visited the site whilst it was still in operation, and, yes, one could certainly complain about aesthetics and presentation. But the principle decision was correct. The benefit of a pop-up lease is that no permanent infrastructure needs to be created, so there is no cost to the local fiscus in allocating a lease or for restoration afterward. Further-more, a pop-up lease is temporary and lease conditions can be refined in future rounds. And there are presumably strict operating conditions.

The grass verge at the Kammabaai parking area is undoubtedly an appropriate location for such a sunset facility. It is no different from the much-lauded Dutchies Restaurant pop-up summer lounge right on the popular Grotto Beach – a blue-flag beach, no less.

A local entrepreneur put the money in and took on the commercial risk. I have no idea whether this particular popup was commercially successful, but from what I witnessed holidaymakers overwhelmingly voted with their wallets in support of the facility. One foreign hotel guest I spoke to thought it was an excellent facility, as he did not have a cooler box to take his own drinks to the beach for a sundowner.

The manufactured outrage regarding the consumption of alcohol near a ”family beach“ is further debunked by casual observation of the number of discreet “family cooler boxes“ on display at all of the Voëlklip

So I applaud Area Manager Kearney for a progressive decision in allocating the Kammabaai lease. It provided a useful amenity to locals and visitors whilst it simultaneously created jobs and

retained tourist revenue in Hermanus. The last thing our fast-expanding town needs are municipal officials who simply say no to progress for fear of knee-jerk criticism from an unquantified but highly vocal section of ratepayers. Perhaps Mr. Kearney should have taken more input from the local ward councillor, but the hardworking Ms. Kari Brice gets it in the neck from all sides regardless, whatever the final decision on such matters. But there is a more important issue raised here. Despite the imperfections – and there certainly are many to nitpick on – Hermanus is a particularly well-managed town, a state of affairs that did not percolate by itself. One only needs to visit other parts of the country – including other DA managed areas – to confirm this. Our municipal managers deserve full credit and should be treated with due regard for past achievement. The reality is that in today’s binary, us-versus-them world too-easily disgruntled minorities’ first lines of attack are newspaper letters and other public forums. Direct engagement, constructive criticism and balanced debate seem to have fallen victim to obtuse, hostile NIMBY-ism. The strident and shrill public bullying of professional municipal staff members often borders on the ad-hominem, and is usually accompanied by the equal harassment of the political ward councillor – ostensibly under the lowwattage threat of voting the ANC back into power if their narrow interests aren’t pushed by the DA representative. The form typically conveys the impression that the complainant speaks for the silent majority. This is, emphatically, not the case. J le Roux

Disregard for environment is ‘disturbing’ Two letters in the 19 December issue of The Village NEWS disturbed me. One was Disappointed by mall facilities by ‘New mom’. I found her last point made a mockery of all her opinions. She is a smoker with a new born baby! Everyone knows one shouldn't smoke when pregnant, or around children. The second was Stephen Müller’s response to Izak Kenney’s letter A blight on

Hermanus landscape about the degradation caused by the excavations for Markus Jooste’s development. It was officious and dismissive. His last paragraph incensed me: "Currently there are 47 protected tree species... and the one that was cut down was not 'listed' and therefore not protected." How arrogant and entitled can one get! Any tree of 100 years

is worthy of respect. Who are we as mere mortals to decide what has to be 'protected' or chopped down – regardless of its age? In Sydney, Australia, one is not allowed to chop down trees, even in one's own garden, without special permission. As David Attenborough said, "Human beings have become a plague upon the earth". Michael Webber

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Frustrated by network problems over the season Firstly, thank you for a great read. To be able to read the whole paper from cover to cover is a pleasure. I’m looking forward to even more newsworthy articles in the future. Secondly, I’m not sure if you noticed but there were and are plenty of network problems. Vodacom has the majority of coverage, but with the influx of visiting “Vodacommers” it has caused numerous dropped calls or no calls being able to be made over the season. According to the agent in town the Municipality has been refusing Vodacom permission to erect more towers – to the detriment of all residents and business owners. It would be interesting to find out why we all have to suffer because of a minority and when this elephant in the room is going to be addressed. Keep it up! Frustrated Vodacommer After the public outcry over the temporary towers that were erected during peak season in 2016 the Municipality decided to draw up a policy to regulate the erection of temporary towers in town, especially during peak season. The policy has not served before Council yet and in the mean time no temporary towers will be allowed. – ED

CHRISTMAS CHEER Hermanus resident Demi Burke and her sister Chantelle, who was visiting from Cape Town, decided to give back to the community by treating the homeless to a Christmas lunch on 23 December in front of Strati’s Superette in Paterson Street. The sisters handed out small presents and biscuits and served their guests curry and rice with a glass of wine each, followed by fruit cocktail with custard. One of the homeless guests said a prayer before the meal and expressed their gratitude towards the sisters for this kind and generous gesture.

The ghastly ghost of Xmas just passed All the chocolates have been eaten – gifts from friends and relatives over the festive season, who felt they had to bring something. Now they’re all gone, choccies and chums alike. But the skeletal remains in the empty choc-box coffins are a grim reminder of why you’ve developed a boep, a double chin, or an extra buttock. And those exotic flowers – brought instead of chocs – once vibrant and festive, have sadly lost their lustre and are faded and verlep. Outside the kitchen, boxes of empty wine bottles, beer cans, coke cans and brandy bottles bear testimony to how many times the guest loo was flushed. But as the madness subsides, the blood-shot eye of reality peeps cautiously above the parapet. People are going back

Wit’s End Murray Stewart thevillagemuze@gmail.com

to work, kids to school, and now there’s parking at the mall. But something gnaws at the bowels of your soul. Didn’t you make some kind of New Year’s Resolution? Hmm… People often make impromptu life-changing decisions around the New Year. This is when they’re drunk, stoned or both, and usually find it necessary to inform everyone about their crusade as well. But if anyone tells you about his NYR, you can safely look him in the eye, point, smirk and laugh hysterically. Be as rude as you like, because most

of these pipe dreams go up in smoke. In the Duck ’n Fiddle’s Explanation of Everything, research concerning NYRs was well documented over centuries about this very question. A staggering 94.7% of those moegoes who promised to stop or start something, were in fact drunk or stoned, usually both. Being the festive season this is totally understandable, but according to some doctors and a couple of dominees who know, this is no fit state in which to make a promise, never mind remember it.

Anyway, some potential NYRs in the year ahead certainly harbour a few fully rigged warships ready to sail forth and create major havoc both locally and globally. To avoid bloodshed though, I’m prohibited (at staple-gun-point) from discussing politics above the level of local trivialities, like the Cliff Path, the Bypass or the annual horror of the Whale Festival. So in defense, I can only speculate from behind this maritime metaphor as to whether some of these ships might sail or sink. The aircraft carrier USS TWATT (Trump’s War Against The Truth), lurks in the murky waters around Washington DC waiting for the go-ahead to explode in all directions at once, even inwardly. But no one’s sure whether to bomb North Korea first, or maybe Iran. Mexico will

implode by itself, but what about Yemen? They dropped a drol in the punch bowl by bombing the Arabs who supply USS TWATT with fuel, never mind the whole country. And what about all those spineless European Union tree-huggers who can’t appreciate a narcissistic bully like the Texans do? The crew is hand-picked. Good ole boys with names like Rastus and Billy-Bob – or anyone with a swastika or banjo – are automatically enlisted. Female recruits must consent to regular leg-pulling, goosing, tickling, fannyslapping or any other acts of encouragement, and must sign non-disclosure agreements in case of occasional pregnancies. Don’t want misunderstandings like Harvey Winehead or Bill Cocksby caused while moulding young actress’ careers.

Back home, SAS ZOOM is also ready to sail. The destination is uncertain, but Dubai and Alcatraz have been mooted. Below deck, the Looter-in-Chief charts an escape route with fellow marauders, while crew members jump ship to avoid those scratchy orange overalls. Across the bay lies the SAS RAMA, posing as the corruption-buster, the retriever of stolen loot, and our only hope of staying afloat. Rest assured the scuttling of SAS ZOOM – barely sea-worthy anyway – will instantly change our futures. The rand will definitely appreciate, so we should be in for a prosperous year. Well, there you have it. Snuck in a wee bit of politics by mistake – just hope the staple-gunner missed it. (I didn’t! See me! –Ed)

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Good Guide

Wednesday 17 January

■ Hermanus Bird Club: At the first club meeting of the year the guest speaker will be Gerhard Vosloo, who will talk about Birds of the Kgalagadi. A wine station will be available and donations are welcome. At the Fernkloof Nature Reserve Hall, at 18:30. (The Hermanus Bird Club’s monthly outing for January is fully booked.)

Thursday 18 January

■ Hermanus Astronomy Centre monthly meeting: What do we know about the beginning and history of the Universe we live in? How do we know what we know? How do we measure the mass and size of planets and what tricks did we invent to measure the distance of stars and galaxies? What are the mysteries and challenges that astronomers and cosmologists are trying to understand today? HAC will host guest speaker Dr Jabebal Fantaye from the University of Rome to shed light on all these questions. For more information, contact petermh@hermanus.co.za or call 081 212 9481. At the Catholic Church hall, at 19:00.

Thursday 25 January

■ Meet the Winemaker: Benguela Cove winemaker Johann Fourie will present the latest releases in the Benguela Cove range, paired with canapes from talented head chef Annie Badenhorst. R150 pp. Book online at www.benguelacove.co.za/meetthe-winemaker/ and treat yourself to dinner afterwards at the new Moody Lagoon restaurant. At Benguela Cove, from 18:00 – 20:00.

Friday 19 January ■ Photography Workshop: My Camera Basics is a gentle workshop that introduces you to an understanding of your equipment so that you can enjoy your photographic journey to its fullest. Learn with your own camera, in a small group, on location, so you can apply what you are learning from an Accredited Professional Photographer to help guide and teach you. To book, contact Leanne Dryburgh at tours@thephotowalkers.com or 083 293 7208. Payment can be done at The Photo Shed on Market Square or via thephotowalkers.com website. Meet at Fernkloof Nature Reserve for the workshop, from 10:00 – 13:00.

Monday 22 January

■ Entrepreneurship: The Rotary Club of Hermanus invites members of the public to attend their breakfast meeting where guest speaker André du Toit from Cape Town will inspire and motivate you to start your own business, or encourage you to mentor someone who would like to become an entrepreneur. Booking is essential at R100 pp. Contact annwright@telkomsa.net or 083 3070726. At The Classroom in The Village, at 08:30.

Friday 26 January ■ Bhuki Café: Benadé Kruger, co-owner of The Book Collector, will be the Bhuki Café’s special guest. Bring your valuable books for discussion and valuation while enjoying tea, coffee and eats with fellow bibliophiles. All are welcome. At Hermanus Library, from 10:00 – 11:30.

Every Friday ■ Hermanus Hacking Group: Meet at the green reservoir off Mountain Drive, near the Gateway intersection, every Friday at 07:15 for 07:30. All volunteers welcome. Contact Charlyn Vosloo on 082 558 8731 or mcvosloo@mweb.co.za ■ Bhuki Café: Friends of Hermanus Library will be back on 19 January, serving tea, coffee and eats for only R20 (2 eats) or R30 (3 eats). At Hermanus Library, every Friday from 09:00 – 11:30.

Every Saturday ■ Hermanus parkrun: A free, timed 5 km walk or run, come rain or shine. The route is dog friendly and children are most welcome. Meet at Hermanus Forest in Camphill Road, Hemel-enAarde Valley, every Saturday at 08:00. ■ Burns Supper Night: Celebrate the life and poetry of Scottish bard Robert Burns on his birthday with all the trimmings, including five courses of traditional Scottish fare, lively music from the piper, Highland dancing, the pageantry of "Tae a Haggis", a wee dram and Athol Brose liqueur. R280 per person. Dress code: Elegant. To book call Cathryn on 072 127 9297. At The Tasting Room, Stanford Hills, from 18:30.

Monday 29 January ■ History of Scotland: U3A Overberg’s fascinating DVD series on the History of Scotland continues with Episode 5: Project Britain, presented by Dr Robin Lee. Everyone is welcome. At the Catholic Church hall, at 10:00.

■ Hermanuspietersfontein Food & Wine Market: Where wine and food lovers both local and international meet. In the courtyard at Hermanuspietersfontein winery in The Village, every Saturday from 09:00 – 13:00.

■ Hermanus Country Market: A favourite among the locals, young and old. Fresh local produce, wholesome goodies and homemade crafts. Next to the cricket field in Fairways Avenue, every Saturday from 09:00 – 14:00. ■ Market in the Garden: Set among a treed garden in the heart of town. At St Peter’s Church in Main Road, every Saturday from 09:00 – 13:00.

Every Sunday

Wednesday 31 January ■ Full Moon Walk: Join Stanford Tourism for a sunset walk under a full moon. Children and dogs welcome. R30 for adults and R10 for children includes complimentary refreshments. Call 028 341 0340. Meet at the Stanford Tourism Office at 17:30.

■ Lemm’s Corner Market: This popular Sunday market offers exclusive arts and crafts, great food, craft beer and wine bar. Come and enjoy the relaxed vibe and live music. On the corner of Main and Harbour Roads, from 10:00 – 15:00. ■ Stanford Sunset Market: Stanford's favourite evening market is back. Food, wine, beer, arts & crafts, live music and friendships – there is nowhere better to be on the last Friday of the month. At Stanford Market Square, from 18:00 – 20:00.

Friday 26 – Saturday 27 January

■ BirdLife Overberg monthly meeting: Guest speaker Carin Malan will give a talk on Birding in the Kgalagadi Transfrontier Park and parts of southern Namibia, entertaining her audience with some of the brilliant images that she has taken over the years in this world-renowned birding destination. Carin will also provide tips on how to prepare for your visit and where to go for the best viewings of birds and animals. Catering at R80 per head. Bring your own drinks and glasses. RSVP: Helé at birding@southernartceramics.com or send an SMS to 073 456 0393. At Mollergren Park Community Hall, at 18:30 for 19:00.

selling previously loved items. For more information, or to enquire about a stand, call 028 341 0340 or email office@stanfordinfo.co.za In the courtyard of Stanford Tourism Office in Queen Victoria Street, from 09:00 – 12:00.

REGULARS

■ Pinot Noir Celebration: A two-day fine wine showcase that celebrates Hemel-en-Aarde’s premium Pinot Noir wines, at Nidderdale Farm. Get all the details on P 12.

Saturday 27 January ■ Junktique Market: Browse or buy to your heart's content from a mixture of eclectic vendors

Every Monday ■ Classic Bridge Club: Duplicate Bridge, every Monday at 13:00, at Fernkloof Hall. To join the club, contact Riekie on 072 230 9179.

■ Blue Moon Beach: What exactly is a ‘blue moon’ and how often is ‘once in a blue moon’? Join Whale Coast Conservation on this exciting eco-adventure to explore the night sky and watch the wildlife feeding. Adults R100, children R50, including a complimentary drink at Dutchies. All proceeds go to environmental education. Booking is essential; WhatsApp 083 242 3295 or email anina.wcc@gmail.com. At Grotto Beach, from 19:30 – 21:30.

■ Walker Bay Walkers: Join this group of about 30 walkers who meet 3 times a week and do 3 different routes of between 6 – 9 km. Meet every Monday, Wednesday and Friday at the Hermanus Bowling Club, at 07:30. For more info, call Lynn on 082 471 3637 or Angela on 082 445 8376.

Friday 2 February

Every Thursday

■ Burns Supper: Dress up in black tie or lounge suit – or as a Highlander – to celebrate the life and poetry of the Scottish bard Robert Burns. Tickets for the Burns Supper featuring traditional Scottish fare are R250 pp. Pre-booking and payment of individual and table bookings essential. Contact Alastair Lyle on lyle@hermanus.co.za or call 028 314 1390 or 073 778 2777. At Hermanus Golf Club, at 19:00 for 19:30.

■ Rotary Club of Hermanus: Weekly meetings every Thursday at Mollergren Park, at 19:00. Visitors welcome. Contact Ian Wallace on 082 895 8738 or Metcalf Fick on 082 568 2193.

Every Monday, Wednesday & Friday

Send your events information to hedda@thevillagenews.co.za

Village

EXPLORER EXPLORER The

FOOD • WINE • ARTS

Wine entrepreneur puts Tesselaarsdal on the map

erene Damons had never travelled far from Hermanus – until last year, when this intrepid winemaker won both the provincial and the national Department of Agriculture, Forestry and Fisheries’ 2017 Female Entrepreneur of the Year award, as well as a special ministerial award for Young Female Entrepreneur of the Year. This recognition of her achievements took Berene as far away as China and provided multiple training and networking opportunities.

Wine News Frieda Lloyd

Berene will be releasing her third vintage, Tesselaarsdal Pinot Noir 2017, in the first week of February and it is bound to sell out quickly despite the fact that her production has tripled. Five tons of grapes are supplied from Babylons Vineyards in Hemel-en-Aarde Ridge and vinified at Hamilton Russell Vineyards. Aged in French oak barrels, Berene bottles and labels the wine with the help of five women.

Back in 2001 Berene journeyed the short distance from Tesselaarsdal, where she was born and bred, to the Hemel-en-Aarde Valley to start her career. Initially appointed as au pair to the four children of the owners of the famed wine estate Hamilton Russell Vineyards, Berene was promoted to export administrator in no time.

She says she can hardly believe how much her life has changed in the last three years. “I’ve become very busy with many late nights of wine tasting and networking. I have met so many new people and travelled internationally for the first time. Another first for me was doing radio interviews.”

As her interest in winemaking grew, Berene volunteered to assist with the annual harvests and continued to observe and learn as the grapes made their journey from vineyard to bottle. Hamilton Russell Vineyards management rewarded her progress by enrolling Berene for several wine courses with the Cape Wine Academy and offering her a chance to produce wine under her own label.

The label of Berene’s Tesselaarsdal Pinot Noir tells its own story. Themed around her place of birth and family name, the creative input for the design came from photos taken on a trip to Tesselaarsdal with Anthony Hamilton Russell. Cape Town-based designer, Simone Hodgskiss, added her interpretation and produced a classic label. Berene’s brother, Ricardo, designed the family crest to add the final touch.

In 2015 Berene released the first 1 202 bottles of Tesselaarsdal Pinot Noir and has not looked back since. With a wine release to her credit she spread her wings and last year she grabbed the opportunity to travel to many places new and far. Surrounded by celebrated winemakers in an area that has become wellknown for its premium wines and specifically Pinot Noir, I asked Berene if she was surprised to see how well her

Pinot was received. “It was unbelievable,” she says. “From the moment the wine was released the feedback from the media and wine trade was so positive that I couldn’t keep up. For the maiden vintage of 2015, and then the 2016 release, to receive 4 and a half stars from Platter’s Wine Guide made me very proud.”

Thanks to Berene’s highly-acclaimed Pinot Noir, the the wine world will soon learn through the grapevine where this tiny village is.

Hamilton Russell Vineyards winemaker Emul Ross mentored Berene to ensure that what’s inside the bottle matches the professional

design. Berene acknowledges the tremendous role that Emul has played in teaching her about the many aspects of wine-making. It surely took a village, or in this case a valley, to produce an acclaimed and proudly Overberg Pinot Noir. Tesselaarsdal Pinot Noir will not remain an only child for long, as Berene is planning to try her hand at also producing an unwooded Chardonnay. Watch this space! ■ Guests attending the Hamilton Russell Vineyards event hosted during the fifth Hemel-en-Aarde Pinot Noir Celebration might be surprised with a sneak peek at the soon to be released 2017 Tesselaarsdal Pinot Noir. If you miss this opportunity make sure you buy a bottle from the local wine merchants before the small private sale allocation is sold out. Tesselaarsdal Pinot Noir adds to South African and Hermanus winemaking history.

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Get ready for an immersive Pinot Noir experience

he Hemel-en-Aarde Pinot Noir Celebration on 26 & 27 January is a two-day event that weaves together wine and culinary culture by offering an unmatched selection of Pinot Noir and food by top chefs. The event is primarily a seated fine wine showcase featuring Michael Fridjhon as master of ceremonies, presenting it in an engaging format.

munity projects. 15:00 - 17:00: Tap into Burgundian winemaker Jean-Marie Fourrier’s expertise with a formal tasting of his Domaine at the international tasting. 17:00: Your time is yours on Friday evening. There are no events scheduled, but visitors are encouraged to enjoy the finer things that the idyllic town of Hermanus has to offer.

Throughout the weekend guests will enjoy scores of small, thematic and intimate events. Highlights will include tutored tastings by the likes of Burgundian wine producer, Jean Marie Fourrier and a seated fine wine showcase of the best Pinots that the Hemel-enAarde has on offer.

SATURDAY 27 JANUARY

The weekend will wrap up with a sleek, relaxed dinner at a stunning new venue, Nidderdale, alongside the South African wine industry’s most celebrated Pinot noir producers. Your ticket grants you total access to this one of a kind, immersive festive event in one of the most beautiful wine growing regions in the world. Get a taste of the line-up and make sure you book those tickets before the event is sold out. FRIDAY 26 JANUARY 08:30 - 09:30: Registration with oysters and Hemel-en-Aarde MCC at Nidderdale farm. 09:30 - 11:30: Guided vineyard tours by the winemakers and viticulturists. (There is the option of self driving or travelling with the group – to be indicated when booking your free of charge vineyard tour ticket.) 11:00: If you have no interest in terroir, your time to join is NOW. Second registration at Nidderdale. 12:00 - 14:00: Lunch! Enjoy a light two-course meal with seasonal flavours and a glass of crisp Hemel-en-Aarde Chardonnay. 14:00 - 15:00: Hemel-en-Aarde Wines Charity Auction hosted by auctioneer Dave Swingler. All funds raised will go towards the Hemel-en-Aarde com-

There are 12 Saturday morning tastings, all taking place between 10:00 and 11:30 and all at different Hemel-enAarde wineries. Space at each event has been limited by the producer, and will be available on a first-book /first-serve basis. At the time of booking your Pinot Noir Celebration full weekend ticket, you will be required to indicate which Saturday event you will be attending from the dropdown menu. The 12 events to choose from are: Ataraxia: Winemaker Kevin Grant and Burgundy specialist Derek Kilpin will take you on a journey to the Pearl of Burgundy – Gevrey-Chambertinbased Domaine Fourrier and its sensational wines made by fourth generation owner JeanMarie Fourrier. Bosman Family Vineyards: Enjoy a guided tour of their Foundation Vineyard, focusing on the different Pinot Noir selections, followed by a sensorial pairing of sustainably farmed abalone and Bosman Family Vineyards Pinot Noir wines. Bouchard Finlayson: The pioneer of Pinot Noir in the Hemel-en-Aarde, Peter Finlayson, leads this interactive tasting of 4 flights of Pinot Noir, with international comparisons from Burgundy, New Zealand and Germany. Creation: A celebratory brunch pairing will showcase their award-winning Pinot Noir portfolio along with a

special selection from Burgundy. Philippe Colin from Burgundy will join Creation’s JC Martin in a discussion of the fascinating Pinot Noir cultivar. Domaine des Dieux: Throughout the weekend you will experience Pinot Noir as a still wine, but at Domaine des Dieux, with the guidance of MCC guru Allan Mullins, you will explore the wonders of Pinot Noir in a bubble. Hamilton Russell Vineyards: A tasting of benchmark Pinot Noirs from five iconic international regions, alongside two vintages of Hamilton Russell Vineyards Pinot Noir. La Vierge: You are invited you to take part in an adventurous journey with a blind tasting of Pinot Noirs from around the globe with Michael Fridjhon. Newton Johnson Family Vineyards: A very informative and interactive tasting of Burgundian and Newton Johnson wines. Restless River: Discover the simple, honest approach that is Geosensorial Tasting and explore beautiful, expressive and enigmatic Pinot Noirs made by authentic winegrowers in France, South Africa, Germany and Canada. Storm Wines: Join Storm Wines around the table for a

tutored tasting of 10 of the world's greatest examples of Pinot Noir. Sumaridge: Celebrate the longevity of Sumaridge Pinot Noirs ranging from 2006 – 2010. Each wine will be paired with a canape prepared by a local chef. Whalehaven: Enjoy a comparative barrel sample tasting to illustrate how the choice of cooperage, oak grain and toasting levels influence Pinot Noir. This will be followed by a vertical tasting of 5 vintages of Whalehaven Conservation Coast Pinot Noir. After the pre-booked tastings above from 10:00 – 11:30, the rest of the programme for Saturday includes: 12:00 - 13:30: Lunch! Connect

and mingle with a glass of Hemel-en-Aarde MCC over a harvest table around your shared love of great food and drink. 14:00 - 15:00: Much awaited formal tasting of 2016 Hemelen-Aarde Pinot Noir per individual appellation. First Flight: Hemel-en-Aarde Valley, 2016. 15:00 - 15:15: Breather. 15:15 - 16:15: Second Flight: Upper Hemel-en-Aarde Valley, 2016. 16:15 - 16:30: Breather. 16:30 - 18:00: Third Flight: Hemel-en-Aarde Ridge, 2016. 18:30: The breeze is warm under the large oak trees and the table is set for a balmy, wine fuelled summer’s night with the local winemakers. Simple, well executed dinner fare will be prepared by top chefs on open fires in a laidback atmosphere.

TICKETS The cost of a Pinot Noir Celebration 2018 full weekend ticket is R 2 995. This ticket gives you full access to the weekend’s festivities, including the Saturday evening dinner on Nidderdale farm. Tickets can be booked online at www.pinotnoircelebration.co.za /Ticket-Sales.php and you can indicate which Saturday morning event you will be attending in the drop down menu. Tickets to the Pinot Noir Celebration Saturday Dinner alone at R695 pp have sold out. While alcohol is available for your enjoyment at the event, be aware of your limits and consume responsibly. Please don’t drink and drive.

16 - 29 January 2018

Kicking the New Year off on an artistic note

esidents, visitors and tourists were back on the Hermanus First Fridays (HFF) Artwalk on a perfect summer’s eve on 5 January. The theme of the first Artwalk of the New Year was ‘masquerade’ and several Artwalkers donned festive masks as they followed the orange from gallery to gallery. This popular night on the town is as much about admiring the impressive array of fine art and craft displayed at the galleries in the CBD as it is about meeting up with friends and enjoying the special HFF social vibe. The next Artwalk will take place on Friday 2 February – don’t miss it!

Talita Engelbrecht of Hamilton Russell Vineyards, the owner of the Bushbuck Pub, Henrik Schauman, and Andy Viking did the Artwalk in style by enjoying chilled wine and fresh oysters on the stoep of the Bushbuck in Harbour Road.

Renszke Scholtz, the owner of Kunskantoor in The Courtyard off Harbour Road, chatting to an Artwalker in her gallery. Michelle Botha (centre) with her friends Chelsi Endersby and Cilmarie Kelly before heading down Warrington Place to Forty X 40 and SPACE galleries.

PHOTOS: Hedda Mittner

The co-owners of The Art Gallery in their colourful masks – from left are Erna Dry, Jeandre Marinier, Lize van der Walt and Christine Henderson with Bruce van der Spuy.

Terry Kobus of Originals Gallery in Harbour Road with Macayla Blignaut of Sumaridge Estate Wines.

Liz Coates with holidaymakers Sonia Eitz from the Strand and Joshua van Niekerk from Pretoria in her gallery in Main Road, Pure South.

16 - 29 January 2018

Join Goozi for an Arabesque cooking demo

o coincide with the first day of Goozi Kitchenshop’s store-wide 15% off sale, owner Eunice Rademeyer will be hosting another of her hugely popular Arabesque cooking demos in Goozi’s popup kitchen on Friday 26 January at 10:00. This time she has chosen recipes with the purpose of demonstrating how easy-peasy it is to make something delicious out of the cheapest and most boring of ingredients. Eunice is well known for her love of Middle Eastern cooking, which started when she moved to Kuwait, where she met her future husband Talal Showaish.

The couple has travelled extensively in Lebanon, Syria, Oman, Qatar, Iran and Bahrain, frequenting the many souks, living among the locals and sampling all the culinary delights on offer, from hummus to sheep’s brains! “What I love most about Middle Eastern food is how uncomplicated and unpretentious it is,” says Eunice. “The simple ingredients are fresh from the earth and the recipes are ancient and handed down from generation to generation.” When Eunice and Talal got married in 1996, she spent many hours in her mother-in-

law’s kitchen. “Because she does not speak too much English and my Arabic is scant, I learnt by watching her and then tasting the meal. I therefore have a slight disregard for precise recipes and rely on my ‘taste library’ for how my meal ought to taste.” One of the recipes Eunice will demonstrate at the pop-up kitchen this month is Maragh Zahrah. She’ll be cooking with minced meat and the drabbest of all vegetables – the cauliflower! Let the Lebanese show you how to turn a humble cauliflower into the most exotic dish. Join Eunice Rademeyer for Goozi’s Arabesque cooking demo on 26 January.

Maragh Zahrah (Minced beef & cauliflower casserole) Vegetable & olive oil for frying 3 kg cauliflower florets 400 g minced meat 2 chopped red onions 1 Tbsp salt 1/4 Tbsp black pepper 1/2 Tbsp cinnamon powder 1 bulb garlic, peeled and minced 1/2 bunch coriander, chopped 1 cup boiling water initially (+ more boiling water)

2. Meanwhile, in a large pot fry your onions and add the minced meat over medium heat, and cook until browned. 3. Add the salt, black pepper and cinnamon powder. Mix well. 4. Add the garlic and coriander, mixing for a few minutes.

Method:

5. Add one cup of boiling water, mix and let it cook over medium heat for at least 15 minutes (or until you finish frying your cauliflower). If your mixture dries up, add more boiling water (another 1 cup).

1. Heat the vegetable oil over medium/high heat to deep fry the cauliflower, add your cauliflower and fry in batches. Once the cauliflower browns, remove and place onto kitchen towel to absorb the excess oil.

6. Add the fried cauliflower into the pot, then add enough boiling water to cover the cauliflower mixture but not to fully immerse it. Leave to bubble away for 5 – 10 minutes before serving with basmati rice.

16 - 29 January 2018

Support festival by becoming a Friend of FynArts

f there is any reason to look forward to winter it must surely be the return of FynArts from 8 to 17 June. The sixth FynArts Festival will not only welcome familiar faces back to Hermanus but also introduce festivalgoers to some new and exciting additions to the programme. The long line-up will again offer 10 days of cultural events ranging from visual arts to talks, demonstrations, music, films, workshops, wine tastings and pairings, a children’s programme and more in between. According to FynArts Festival Director Mary Faure, the 2018 programme has been finalised and the programme booklet sent to the printers more than a month earlier than ever before. An exciting first on this year’s FynArts Festival programme is a ballet performance by the Cape Town City Ballet that will transport its audience to a realm of beautiful dance and music. The first half of the programme will include one of the most challenging pas de deux in the classical repertoire, Diane and Acteon, featuring Ashley Killar’s Glazunov Variations, and the well-known solo The Dying Swan. The second half will feature a highly-acclaimed creation by

8 – 17 June 2018 Cape Town City Ballet’s Artistic Director, Robin van Wyk, danced to the music of George Gershwin’s Stairway to Paradise. Other new twists to the programme will range from a panel discussion on investigative journalism to floral workshops; and from ten top chefs to another supper club evening that all promise to be entertaining, stimulating, and enormous fun. Early bird tickets as well as vouchers will once again be available soon. Go to www.hermanusfynarts.co.za and subscribe to their newsletter for all the updates – or better still, become a Friend of FynArts. By doing so, you will receive your programme booklet and qualify to make early bird bookings from the end of January, some days before booking opens to the public.

“Since 2013 the festival has grown in every way, thanks to the generous and loyal local support and that of a growing number of out-of-town visitors as the news of the festival spreads,” says Festival Director Mary Faure. “Arts festivals and arts organisations worldwide – even those receiving state subsidies – rely heavily on donations, grants and contributions for their sustainability and growth. FynArts is no exception.” By becoming a Friend of FynArts you will not only invest in the sustainability and ongoing growth of this proudly local festival but also enjoy special privileges. An annual contribution of R300 (single) and R500 (couple) or a once-off, life-time contribution of R3 000 (single) and R5 000 (couple), qualifies FynArts Friends to:

Ballet will be added to the FynArts programme for the first time this year with a performance by the Cape Town City Ballet. • book tickets for all their chosen events in advance of the general public • be invited to a welcoming cocktail function before the Opening Concert • be invited to attend the Annual General Meeting as well as at least one annual Friends-only event before the Festival Friends of FynArts will be listed on the official FynArts

website and given a special card and booking code to make their reservations, either online via Webtickets or at the FynArts office next to Hermanus Tourism, from the end of January. The Friends initiative is coordinated by FynArts volunteer, Joanna Hardie. Application forms can be obtained from the FynArts office or online at

hermanusfynarts.co.za and either submitted to the office with your payment or emailed to admin@hermanusfynarts.co.za, with your receipt of payment referenced with your surname and the word FRIEND. For more information, contact FynArts Administrative Coordinator Chantel Louskitt at admin@hermanusfynarts.co.za or call 060 957 5371.

16 - 29 January 2018

Annual Hermanus Camp celebrates 110th anniversary

he Annual Hermanus Camp celebrates its 110th anniversary this year. Once again, 44 boys between 11 and 15 years and 30 leaders ranging in age from 16 to 70 enjoyed the thrills and challenges of water, mountain, kloof and beach from 2 to 13 January while based at the Dimple, the scout camp site on the Klein River Estuary in the Fernkloof Nature Reserve. A reunion for past campers on 5 January was enjoyed by men both old and young, with wellknown author Greg Mills, himself an ex-camper with a son who

participated in this year’s camp, as the main speaker. The camp’s aims include leadership training and mentoring, and having a fun holiday. Many of the leaders were campers themselves, as were their fathers. Lifelong friendships are forged among new campers. The camp is more relevant than ever, and aims to ground boys in sound values and prepare them for the fast-changing world in which we live. The camp, initiated by the Anglican Church in 1907,

welcomes youngsters from all backgrounds. It was first held in Cape Town but moved to Hermanus in 1919. The camp is grateful for recently securing a renewal of its lease of the camp site for 9 years 11 months from the Overstrand Municipality, which will enable it to continue at least until 2027. Expeditions include sailing up the Klein River to Stanford, and a coastal walk to Danger Point and back. For more information visit their website www.annualhermanuscamp. co.za

The 2018 Annual Hermanus Camp. Boys will be boys, but who will teach them to be men?

CARING COMMUNITY The Fisherhaven Ratepayers Association (FRA) on Friday handed over a cheque of R7 500 to the Overstrand Hospice. The funds were raised during the Fisherhaven Garden Fête and the Carols by Candlelight that were held in December. Sam Sampson, former chair of the FRA, and new FRA chair Rob Mc David also donated their birthday presents towards the funds. John Ross Smith, chair of Overstrand Hospice, thanked the community for their contribution. “There is a great need in our area to look after those who have trouble looking after themselves. We are always grateful for any support we receive,” he said. Sam and John thanked the residents for the role they play in supporting local charities and expressed the hope that they will continue to do so. Overstrand Hospice provides palliative care to patients and their families diagnosed with a life-threatening illness. The organisation is in its eleventh year of operation, with quality and compassionate care remaining their focus and priority. Services are free and available to all who meet the organisation’s medical criteria. Hospice employs four professional nurses and one social worker who provide palliative care to an average of 80 patients at any one time. Hospice also enjoys a strong volunteer base where people give freely of their time and skills. At the handover, from left, were John Ross Smith, Sam Sampson, Fran Tong, Manager of Overstrand Hospice, Rob Mc David, Jeanine Preece, owner of the Blue Roof Pub and Grill, and Denise Sampson.

16 - 29 January 2018

Volunteer to lend a helping paw to HAWS Taylum Meyer

ince 1969 when it was founded, the Hermanus Animal Welfare Society (HAWS) has rescued and aided countless sick, abused and abandoned animals in the Hermanus area. These animals not only include cats and dogs, but also birds, pigs and even cows.

they christened ‘N2’, back to health, Ilze managed to find it a foster home – and she’s pretty much been doing that ever since.

The Chairperson of HAWS, Ilze Smith, has for the past 11 years made it her mission to involve herself with her staff in all aspects of the welfare. Be it walking dogs, cleaning kennels, doing inspections and aiding in animal rescues, or working at the HAWS shop – she has done it all.

All this however wouldn’t be possible without the help of staff and volunteers. HAWS has a small, but dedicated staff that not only run the welfare, but also aid animals in and around the Hermanus community. The welfare is currently full to capacity with roughly 30 cats and a similar number of dogs. Volunteers help to ease the daily workload by walking the dogs, playing with the cats, working at the HAWS shop and helping to run Facebook and Instagram pages to promote animal adoptions and awareness.

Ilze’s journey with HAWS started when she and her late husband picked up a stray dog which was close to death on the N2, and took it home with them. After nursing the dog, which

As it is a non-profit organisation, HAWS relies on donations from the public as well as the income from their second-hand shop to cover their operating expenses.

Some of the food that is donated is sold in 1kg bags to pet owners in the Hermanus community who cannot afford to buy pet food from the shops. This not only helps less fortunate pet owners, but creates some additional income for the welfare. What can you do to assist HAWS? They would appreciate any help from the community, from volunteers to help walk the dogs, who are taken out every day, to the donation of funds or items such as dry cat and dog food, blankets, toys and leashes. If you would like to support HAWS in helping local animals, please drop off your items/donations at the HAWS office in Steenbras Street in Hermanus Industria or at The Village NEWS office in Royal Street, Hermanus. Email office@hermanusanimawelfar e.co.za for more details on how to become a volunteer or call 028 312 1281.

HAWS staff members Peter Hansen (kennel manager), Ilze Smith (Chairperson), and Welldone Gege (animal carer) in the teenage dogs’ kennel with volunteers Olivia Lewis and Charlotte Lewis from Cape Town. PHOTOS: Taylum Meyer, Titanium Photography

The dedicated HAWS staff members include, back from left: Wildre Filander (clinic assistant), Shepherd Maphumo (animal carer), Moses Roberts (animal carer) and Takesure Razah (animal carer supervisor). In front are Clement Chalimba (animal carer), Leon Stroebel (assistant kennel manager) and Chester Khuzani (animal carer).

TIPS FOR ADOPTING A RESCUE PET:

SUCCESS STORY “Since Bonnie has arrived at our home, she has just gotten happier and happier! She fits in perfectly with our current dog, Bartel. Bonnie and Bartel really enjoy playing outside together. She especially enjoys the wide open space in our yard and all the smells and sounds. They also go for a jog every morning – which they both love. I would recommend adopting from a shelter to absolutely anyone. When you adopt from a shelter you are not only giving a loving home to an otherwise lonely animal, but you are opening a new space for a homeless dog/cat to go into the shelter and be safe from possible abuse and starvation. Be the difference – adopt, don't shop!” – Dihan Blom, Napier.

■ Choose an animal that suits your home environment. If you have children or other pets, ensure that the animal you want to adopt is able to mix safely with them. ■ Do not adopt when you are emotional. Losing a pet can be very difficult. Make sure you give yourself enough time before deciding if you want to adopt again. ■ Only adopt if you are able to give the animal the care it needs. No matter how

much you love your pet or how much you may want to adopt, it is important to make sure you are financially and emotionally able to look after it. ■ Spend time playing and interacting with the cats and walking the dogs at the shelter before deciding which animal to adopt. This will help you get to know the animals better and aid you in making a good decision.

16 - 29 January 2018

Resolutions for responsible pet owners

very new year yields a sheaf of promises to ourselves: to lose weight, exercise more, drink less, save money, get to the dentist… Few, if any, make it past February. This year, we’re suggesting you make those resolutions on behalf of your pets, focusing specifically on their health because there are spinoffs for you too. 1. Update your pet’s vaccinations. Annual vaccinations are essential protection against killer diseases like parvovirus, distemper, feline leukaemia and rabies, all of which are endemic in South Africa. 2. Book your pet’s annual vet checkup. Prevention is a significant cost-saving.

3. Protect against ticks and fleas all year round. You might not see them (only 5% of adult fleas are visible to the naked eye) but they’re there, infesting your home as well as your dog or cat. 4. Exercise. A daily walk for a dog, and playtime for dogs and cats not only keeps them physically fit, it also gives them the mental stimulation they need to keep boredom at bay. Boredom often manifests in destructive behaviour so a few games may save your sofa and shoes!

5. Microchip. Microchipping is the surest and most cost-

effective way of being reunited with a lost or stray pet. It’s a painless procedure performed by your veterinarian and takes no more than a few minutes. Thousands of pets are lost over holiday periods when their owners are away, and at Guy Fawkes when firecrackers frighten them into running off.

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MY Pet Dr Hilldidge Beer

6. Keep them clean. Bath your dog once a month with pet shampoo. Human shampoo dries out the skin and can lead to allergies. And wash his/her bed regularly too. Fleas lay their eggs in fabric seams and kennel boards.

7. Practice good dental hygiene. A scary 85% of pets over the age of 3 suffer periodontal disease and this could lead to more serious illnesses like heart ailments. Get your pet to the vet for a dental checkup then institute regular tooth brushing. Tasty pets’ only toothpastes and brushes are available at EberVet Vetshops. 8. Reassess your pet’s weight and eating habits. More than half of South Africa’s pets are overweight or obese and at risk of developing serious health issues like diabetes and joint ailments. Ask your EberVet Vetshop or veterinarian for help in adapting your pet’s diet.

9. If you haven’t already done so, sterilise your pet! Sterilisation prevents unwanted litters and the

disruptive behaviour of an animal on heat. It also prevents diseases like mammary and uterine cancer. Unspayed cats are three times more likely to get mammary cancer than spayed cats. 10. Make this the year of Love. Pets, like humans, thrive on love and affection. The more attention you pay your pet the happier he’ll be, and healthier too, as the more time you spend with him the more likely you are to notice if he’s not well. Veterinarian Dr Hilldidge Beer is CEO of the EberVet Petcare Group and EberVet Vetshops

16 - 29 January 2018

How to cleanse, nourish and balance your body

erdi Appelgryn, the owner of Sevenpointfive Hermanus, is a certified Life Coach who started his journey by studying mainstream Psychology and attaining a BA (Hons) degree in Psychology. In his pursuit of high performance and healthy living, he also immersed himself in the study of various alternative modalities, including Neuro Linguistic Programming (NLP), Timeline Therapy and Life Coaching. But it was not until Ferdi was confronted with his own health crisis which inexplicably left him drained of energy and crippled by anxiety that he embarked on a quest to find an explanation for his condition, which conventional doctors were unable to diagnose or alleviate. He finally came to hear about Sevenpointfive, made an appointment with a consultant to have his blood tested – and was astounded by the results. “My homocysteine level was sky high,” he reminisces. For those of you who, like me, have never heard of homocysteine, it is an Amino acid (one of the building blocks of protein) and elevated levels are detected in the bloodstream when proteins break down and the metabolism of methionine to cysteine is impaired. “I soon realised what a big role physiology plays in wellness of the body, mind and soul and in attaining a healthy, balanced life,” he says. Why is your homocysteine level important? Elevated levels of homocysteine affect the interior lining of blood vessels in the body, increasing the risk of atherosclerosis or narrowing of blood vessels. It is also associated with serious chronic diseases, hypertension, heart attack and stroke, blood clot formation leading to deep vein thrombosis and pulmonary

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MY Health

Sevenpointfive was started by Garth Kent who, after suffering for eight years with Systemic Lupus Erythematosus (SLE), found a way to Cleanse, Nourish and Balance his body to overcome this incurable disease. While the Lupus went undiagnosed for years, Garth was so debilitated that he was unable to work and needed regular injections of morphine. When doctors insisted on him taking Prednisone, the standard Lupus treatment, Garth's joints were damaged so badly that he ended up in a wheelchair. He developed septic arthritis and, as his condition deteriorated, he tried every option available at the time, from conventional medicine to alternative therapies, travelling around the world to try and find a cure for his Lupus. After learning about the importance of pH and a balanced body, Garth began using natural products to achieve a balanced pH of 7.5. He has been free of morphine, valium and schedule 5 painkillers since 1998, and the “incurable” SLE no longer ravages his body.

Ferdi Applegryn of Sevenpointfive Hermanus uses pioneering Live Blood Analysis to get a snapshot into the functioning of your body. PHOTO: Rina de Wet embolism, osteoporosis, rheumatoid arthritis, diabetes, cancer and even the development of Alzheimer’s disease and other types of dementia. How Sevenpointfive can change your life Ferdi immediately started on a regime of Sevenpointfive supplements, which have been carefully designed to return the body to its ideal pH level, which is about 7.5, slightly alkaline. “We all know that supplementation is a minefield,” says Ferdi, “but I realised that nutrition is a core component in achieving wellness and high performance levels. My condition started to improve immediately and the results spoke for themselves.” Ferdi has since stopped taking all medication he was using before and has been using only Sevenpointfive supplementary

products for years. The astounding results have inspired him to undergo the training and open a Sevenpointfive franchise in Hermanus in order to help others who are struggling with fatigue, stress, digestive problems and other chronic diseases. Restoring the body’s pH So, what is the link between elevated homocysteine levels in the blood and the body’s pH level? Ferdi explains that one of the side-effects of ageing, an unhealthy lifestyle and the use of chronic prescription drugs is that the stomach does not secrete enough digestive acid. When that happens, the pH in the stomach and intestines rises (and acid levels decline), which means that nutrients cannot be absorbed properly. In order to compensate your body will leach nutrients from

elsewhere, specifically your bones and teeth. Without the proper nutrients, your homocysteine can easily accumulate to toxic levels and an incorrect pH has been linked to at least 150 different diseases. What is Live Blood Analysis? Sevenpointfive’s aim is to get your body back to its ideal pH level, a slightly alkaline 7.5, to assist it in regaining optimal functioning. The first step is a Live Blood Analysis, which was pioneered by Sevenpointfive in South Africa since 1997. A pinprick of blood taken from your finger is placed under a microscope and analysed to give you an instant snapshot into the functioning of your body. Ferdi is then able to have a close look at imbalances, deficiencies and problems in your body. Unique to Seven-

His dramatic recovery led to the founding of Sevenpointfive, with its unique system that combines Science and Nature, using modern technology to pinpoint the body’s imbalances, and then using natural supplements to allow the body to eliminate the cause of the problem instead of simply trying to suppress the symptoms. Today, Sevenpointfive franchises have spread throughout South Africa and overseas. pointfive, is the before and after process they follow to ensure that the recommended course of action is working. Supplements will be recommended and when follow-up samples are taken, the pictures clearly demonstrate the differences exhibited in the blood after treatment. How to attain balance and regain your health Central to the efficacy of the Sevenpointfive suite of products is Coral Calcium, which comes in the form of sachets each containing 972 mg of ionic calcium that are added to water. Ionic calcium is the most absorbable form of calcium and is essential in maintaining the delicate acid/alkaline balance of the body and restoring it to optimal performance. Elemental calcium, found in

most supplements, is very difficult for the body to absorb (only about 20 – 35%) whilst ionic calcium is almost 100% bio available. The absorption of all other nutrients is also dependent on sufficient calcium, not to mention the multitude of other essential functions calcium performs within the human body. Each box of sachets is supplied with pH strips and a pH scale to test your own pH, with instructions on how to use them. The Coral Calcium will be recommended in conjunction with a tailor-made regime of supplements to target your specific health challenges. Contact us Sevenpointfive is situated in Hemel-en-Aarde Village (right above Wine Village) and you can call Ferdi on 082 928 1965 to book a consultation. - Hedda Mittner

16 - 29 January 2018

How to look as good as new in 2018

he holiday season – packed with champagne, desserts and late nights – has left you with puffy eyes, dull skin and general dehydration. However, it’s a brand-new year, making it the perfect opportunity to ditch those sunglasses and breathe new life into your skin. Now is the time to revive lack-lustre, partied-out skin with a skin detox. Every year we talk about new year resolutions and goals but after a few months they seem to fade. What can we do differently this year to improve our life and our skin? At Refine we believe in building a world of confidence from the outside-in. When you feel good about your skin, you can focus on improving other goals in your life. Rehydrate Hyaluronic acid (HA) is a very powerful humectant, drawing 1 000 times its own weight in moisture from the surrounding environment. HA is naturally produced by our skin to help hydration, but unfortunately, as we grow older and with environmental damages and sun exposure this decreases over

Rest The tell-tale signs of late nights and new year’s parties are noticeable in the eye bags and dark circles. Recharge the windows of your soul with a Carboxy therapy treatment. This will get rid of those dark circles in no time. Try adding a thin Dermal filler in the tear troughs, a top-up Botulinum toxin (botox) around the crow’s feet or frown… it will make you look as if you have just come from a four-week holiday, leaving your eye area rested and rejuvenated in no time!

time. Juvederm® Hydrate allows your doctor to deliver a deeply hydrating boost of hyaluronic acid (HA) to the skin. Tiny injections of Juvederm® Hydrate can restore your skin’s healthy glow by hydrating your skin and boost-ing skin smoothness and brightness. Remove We tend to overload our faces with make-up during the festive season and this, combined with not diligently removing it at night, can be disastrous for skin. The use of sunblock mixed with perspiration can also make your skin feel clogged. Kick start cell turnover and unclog pores by having a quick Lunch-time peel. The new Dermaplaning treatment is a physical form of exfoliation similar in theory to microdermabrasion. It requires the use of a sterile, surgical scalpel (not as scary as it sounds) to gently shave the skin's surface, removing the top layer of dead skin along with fine vellus hair. Dermaplaning cleverly triggers the cell regeneration process. It helps to improve

the appearance of things like acne scarring and hyperpigmentation, and the effects of the procedure are instant in leaving your skin with a smooth appearance and a radiant glow. Along with the

removal of fine hairs, it results in healthier skin that feels silkier. Combining this with a light Lunch-time peel is the ultimate in skin exfoliation! Start work in 2018 with a brighter looking skin.

Rejuvenate You have spent hours on the beach and now feel 10 years older, noticing dark patches of sun-damaged skin. Let us help you to rejuvenate your skin to pre- holiday, glowy skin with a quick-fix Laser treatment. Have an IPL treatment to rejuvenate and clear sun damage, improving overall texture, firmness and colour. Reshape It's not uncommon for people, including athletes, to treat Christmas as a time to unwind,

enjoy a drink and overindulge in great tasting, calorie-dense food. Sometimes the festive binge results in unwanted gains in body weight. So, if you are battling to get rid of the muffin top or extra flab, invest in a few LPG Massage treatments, to detoxify and firm up. Combine this with Lipodissolving fat injections, Tripollar, Carboxytherapy and the old-time favourite Faradic pads – and you will have a powerful attack against the bulge! Refirm So, you have always wanted firmer skin, and now your 2018 resolution is to get what you always wanted. Pop in to get your Beauty Passport for the New Year and let us help you achieve your skincare goals. By combining therapies such as the Silhouette one stitch lift, Dermal fillers, Fractionated laser, and skin needling treatments you will be turning heads at your next Christmas table! Let us help you this year to invest in yourself! Book your complimentary consultation today. – Lindi Prinsloo

16 - 29 January 2018

How to be more waterwise in 2018

espite the crippling drought in large areas of the Western Cape the Overstrand is fortunate to have enough water to meet the demand.

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But with lower than average rainfall during the winter months and the dry season far from over, residents can do a lot to save water by making use of greywater and looking after their swimming pools. Greywater is the recycling of bath, shower, hand basin and laundry water, which is then used to irrigate your garden. By reusing bath and laundry water homeowners can keep their gardens looking healthy – even in times of drought – without spending extra on their water bill. Plus, greywater also contains nutrients derived from the residues and soaps in the water which feed and nourish the soil to produce lush plants. However, do not use water waste from the kitchen sink as this contains fat content that will damage your garden. A greywater system can be as simple as using a bucket to carry the waste water outside, or as complicated as having the

greywater piped directly outside using a tank and pump. According to Water Wise, a simple bucket system can be used to transport the greywater, by hand, from the bathroom to garden. It is the cheapest system, but is inconvenient and increases the possibility of contact and contamination between the greywater and people carrying the bucket. Homeowners can also make one themselves by connecting a pipe from the outlet of their bathroom to a hosepipe. Alternatively, homeowners can invest in a system that connects to the outlet pipes of

the bathroom to a tank where the greywater is then stored. With such as system the water will run through a hair and lint filter before it is pumped out through irrigation pipes to the garden. With any greywater system, it is important that you use “garden friendly” products and detergents that do not contain any salts, boron or bleach. If you intend on using the water to feed a vegetable garden, it is important that the system has a filter. In general, tough droughttolerant plants will do best with greywater irrigation watering. Generally, greywater is alkaline, so avoid using it on plants like azaleas,

begonias, gardenias, hibiscus, camellias and ferns. Avoid using it on fynbos and proteas too. Plants that flourish from greywater include olives, rosemary, bougainvillea, lavender, Cape honeysuckle, Italian cypress, bearded iris and petunias. To help these plants thrive, occasionally flush the plants with a bit of rain or tap water to remove the residue from the greywater. Homeowners who would like to use greywater in their garden, should be aware of the hygiene factors. Because greywater is not fresh, you

should apply the following to avoid the growth of bacteria and unpleasant odours: • Use the greywater within 24 hours. Storing the water any longer will result in a bad odour. • Minimise contact with greywater. • Use non-toxic cleaning agents and products where possible. • Do not allow your greywater to pool on the surface of the soil. Standing water will provide a breeding ground for mosquitoes. • Do not use water from the kitchen or toilet. • Do not use laundry water that has been used to wash nappies. • Do not allow children or pets to drink or play in greywater. • Do not let greywater run into the swimming pool. • Do not use greywater if a family member or someone on the property has an infectious illness. Tips for summer pools in water restricted areas • Close or hibernate your pool with a cover. By keeping the pool closed, water levels will remain constant. • If you have features such as

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fountains or jets in your pool, turn them off. Not only do they increase power consumption, the aeration will increase water evaporation. If you have an older pool pump, consider the newer eco-friendlier and waterefficient pool pumps now available locally. Don’t be tempted to abandon your pool and empty it or let the water lie stagnant. It can become a health and drowning risk. An empty pool will also rise from the ground without the weight of the water to keep the structure in place. Don’t use recycled kitchen or bath water in your pool – the ammonia found in cleaning agents and detergents can wreak havoc on a pool’s pH and quickly weather any PVC covers or accessories. Avoid diving and boisterous swimming to reduce splashing. For those who let their dogs swim, this is equivalent to 30 people swimming at once. It requires the filtration system to work even harder to oxidize any pet residue like fur, as well as increasing evaporation and water loss from splashing.

16 - 29 January 2018

CapeNature warns of swift terns infected with bird flu

ird flu has been found in wild birds around the Western Cape, especially the swift tern, according to a statement by CapeNature. A number have tested positive for the H5N8 strain and has been found in Durbanville, Sea Point, between Bloubergstrand and Melkbosstrand, Kenilworth and Stony Point. The disease has been plaguing South African chicken farmers since last year, and the public has been urged to contact their local CapeNature office and/or local vets if they happen upon a dead or sick swift tern, especially if it's a group of them. Signs of a sick tern include weakness and cloudy eyes, head tremors, lack of balance, walking in circles and seizures before finally dying. They are not to be handled, especially if you're going to be in contact with other birds or owners. Other wild birds previously diagnosed with bird flu include guinea fowl, laughing doves, rock pigeons, pied crows, sacred ibis, blue cranes, Egyptian geese, spotted eagle owls, peregrine falcons and house sparrows. Bird flu, also known as avian influenza, can spread very easily through most forms of contact, including through faecal contamination. There is currently no

preventive vaccine or treatment for HPAI H5N8. Veterinary Services advises that there is also no benefit to be gained in attempting to control the virus in wild birds through culling or habitat destruction. Humans are not affected by the virus but they can spread it between bird populations via their hands, clothes and vehicles. Alan Winde, Minister of Economic Opportunities, said on 9 January no new cases of Highly Pathogenic Avian Influenza (HPAI) have been confirmed at previously uninfected poultry farms in the province since 31 October 2017. In December, there was a recurrence at a previously infected farm which was still under quarantine. “The halting of new infections

in our poultry industry is positive news, but we must remain extremely cautious due to infections amongst our wild bird population,” he said. Since culling on chicken farms began, food prices related to poultry, a key source of nutrition for residents, have been impacted. Louw Pienaar, economist at the Department of Agriculture, said the biggest price shock was in the Western Cape where the price of 1.5 dozen eggs increased from R38.42 to R42.66 between September and October last year. ■ If you see birds that have been infected, you can call Dr Marc Walton of Hermanus Animal Hospital on 028 312 3065 or Dr Marten van Dalsen of Bergview Veterinary Clinic Hermanus on 028 312 1390.

An appeal from APSS The African Penguin and Seabird Sanctuary (APSS) appeals to all beach goers to please be aware of breeding birds on the beach and avoid any nesting sites. Do not remove eggs or chicks if they seem abandoned. They are not. The parent bird is waiting for you to move on. More harm can be done by removing the chick. Also note that shorenesting birds are very nervous around dogs. Should they be forced to leave their eggs, the heat of the sun can destroy the embryo if they are away too long. Should you notice an adult bird making a lot of noise, it is highly likely they have chicks nearby and are probably hoping you will find another spot to enjoy the beach.

16 - 29 January 2018

2017 Summer Run – Hooray Hermanus

o celebrate its fourth year in Hermanus, the Summer Run team pulled off yet another successful event, attracting over 2 000 participants with many more spectators joining in the fun. Whilst providing quality entertainment for both the local community and tourists, the Summer Run proved to be an enjoyable, non-alcoholic, familyfriendly, colourful event that benefitted the entire community. Event organiser and Hermanus resident, Bianca le Roux commented: “It goes without saying that the festive season is the time of year when extended families get together. What better way to celebrate this togetherness than participating in a family event such as the Summer Run.” Bianca said the success of the event would not have been possible without the support from their local partners and sponsors. “We complied with every requirement of the local authorities and as a result we enjoyed tremendous support from the Overstrand Traffic Department, Hermanus Tourism and the Municipality. We would

like to thank them wholeheartedly for the professionalism with which they carried out their duties. “There were some concerns raised by community members regarding the closure of roads around the festival zone area at the Cricket Club. This was a safety precaution and we managed the situation effect-ively by consulting with the parties concerned. As a result, disruption was kept to a minimum for the surrounding community,” assured Bianca. The Summer Run is one of the largest sport recreational events in the Overstrand area, promoting health, fitness and camaraderie amongst a diverse community of all ages and gender. The success of the family-friendly event series has seen it expanding to Wilderness, Mossel Bay and Plettenberg Bay, with an increase in participants year-on-year. “Participants enjoyed the colour splash, togetherness and sportiness at the end of the year,” said Frieda Lloyd, Tourism Manager of Cape Whale Coast. “The event lived up to its name as the happiest five kilometres

on the planet judging from feedback, photos and postings on social media. Visitors are familiar with the event and made use of the opportunity to participate as a family or group of friends while on holiday. It brought the community together in a positive, fun way.” According to the organisers, a portion of the proceeds from each of the events is donated to local charities. Hermanus non-profit, the Mentoring Project run by founder Herman Breedt, was chosen to receive support this year. The event organisers have committed to bringing the Summer Run back in December 2018 to celebrate their fifth year in Hermanus. “We are excited to work alongside the community and with the local authorities to make our 2018 event bigger and better,” said Bianca. “We encourage the local community to send their comments, suggestions and recommendations, so that we can improve even more on our next event.” Feedback can be sent via email to bianca@coastlineevents.co.za

16 - 29 January 2018

Busy-busy, great golf and saying goodbye

irate greetings to everyone and all the very best for 2018! I really hope this year brings you all good health and good fortune.

The Putting Pirate

Scores at a glance

Julian Shaw

LADIES 26 DEC 2017 4 Ball Alliance, 22 players : Winners: Lynne Behagg, Cheryl Richardson, Carol Rotherham and Chris Tyley – 83 points

Life at the Hermanus Golf Club has been super busy and we have had some lovely weather, which always helps to bring in the players. This December we have again had record numbers of golfers coming to play, which is testament to our course and facilities.

LADIES 2 JAN 2018 4 Ball Alliance 52 players: Winners: Jackie Clifford, Marion Dietl, Carol Brownlee and Innes van der Plas – 85 points MEN 27 DEC 2017 Betterball Bonus Bogey, 163 players: Winners East Course: Peter Bouwer and Frans Esterhuyse +12; South Course: Andre du Toit and Johan Krog +11; North Course: Roelof Kuiper and Peter van der Bijl +17. Ball pool pays to +11. Best gross: Tyron Davidowitz 68

I won’t deny it’s a challenge to keep things ticking over perfectly, but well done indeed to all the staff at the club who. especially at this time of year. put in an enormous effort to ensure all our golfers have as good an experience as possible – and what’s more no one had to walk the plank! Tyron the great To start with this year I must congratulate one of our younger players, Tyron Davidowitz, who managed to achieve a feat even rarer than a hole in one – an albatross, which is a two on a par 5 (or a 1 on a par 4). Now most of us can’t even get near a par 5 hole for two, but Tyron managed on Saturday, 23 December on the 27th hole to hit two drivers straight into the hole. This is really one to treasure!

MEN 3 JAN 2018 Betterball Stableford, 166 players: Winners East Course: Tim Moffit and Tobie de Wet – 47 points C/I; South Course: Harold Barker and David Boers – 50 points; North Course: Tim Maquire and Etienne Eloff – 48 points. Ball pool pays to 45. Best gross: Marco Steyn 70 ALTOGETHER 30 DEC 2017 Alliance Stableford: Winners East Course: B Baldwin, D Fletcher, J Atkinson and M Milne – 96; South Course: R Pybus (Ghost), K Middleton, D Johnston and D Krugmann – 96; North Course: P Richardson, C Richardson, T Schouw and B Schouw 95 C/I. Best gross: M Frost 74

Tyron Davidowitz with Club President Roydon Pybus and Club General Manager Sharon Sleigh receiving a special albatross certificate and champagne. swallow from bonny Scotland who has managed to drop his handicap 5 shots – well done indeed! But the story doesn’t end there, and he was actually going to give up the game only a few weeks ago after a long stretch of horrible and frustrating golf.

I have been here at the Club now for 13 years and have only heard of one other in all those years. I have had six hole in ones and would gladly trade them for just one albatross.

He then sought a little help from one of our professionals, Strydom van Dyk, who after one single lesson managed to put him on the right road – from shooting in the 90s he shot 78 gross, which was just a few shots over his age!

Tyron has been practicing hard and is hoping to crack the big time in the professional ranks, so all the best to him for the coming season – we’ll be following and cheering him on! Well done, John Clifford and Strydom van Dyk Next on the congratulations list is John Clifford, a regular

Greens Superintendent Malcolm Bromley proudly holding up a soil profile from one of our greens. Great work indeed!

So double congratulations to you both, and I believe there is a lesson for all of us there somewhere. If you are struggling we have 5 PGA professionals here at Hermanus Golf Club and always ready to help.

ALTOGETHER 6 JAN 2018 4BBB Stableford: Winners East Course: André du Toit and Johan Krog – 46; North Course: Chicken Basson and Des Sauls – 48; South Course: Les Adams and Gerald Coates – 47.

Better greens mean fewer costs and better golf Green keeping is a very specific profession and one you have to work at for many years before being entrusted as a greens superintendent. We are fortunate that we have a super team heading up our facility, led by Malcolm Bromley. Recently we have changed direction a little, under the supervision of our greens Chairman Les Adams, and worked hard on getting our root system to grow. This has a positive effect on the whole course, with lower disease levels, longer lifespan of our greens and less usage of our most valuable resource, water! Goodbye, Tinus van Niekerk Being a club with an older demographic we do have a number of members passing

away each year. Last week we unfortunately had to say goodbye to one of our beloved members, Tinus van Niekerk. Tinus played lots of golf here and was always one of those members to put up their hands to help. I for one will miss him coming into my shop and joking with us, always with a smile and greeting. Rest In Peace, brother. Burns Night This is always a super night that anyone with a little Scots blood in them will not want to miss. Burns Supper will take place on 2 February here at the Club and tickets are a steal at R250 pp. For bookings call Alastair Lyle on 028 314 1390, or 073 778 2777 or email him at lyle@hermanus.co.za. Guests should dress in highland, black tie or lounge suit and expect Haggis and all things Scottish!

THE

NEWS

16 - 29 January 2018

MY Sport

South African Young Guns ready to fire Hermanus Cricket Club

he SA Under 19 Cricket team is currently in New Zealand vying for honours in the bi-annual World Cup. The Under 19 World Cup is an International limited overs tournament and the 2018 event is taking place from 13 January to 3 February. This is the twelfth edition of this tournament and the third to be held in New Zealand. There will be 16 teams taking part. South Africa, captained by current Protea opening batsman Aiden Markram, won the U 19 World Cup in 2014, beating Pakistan in the final. In the 2016 event, held in Bangladesh, our team had little success, losing to the hosts and Namibia in the group stages. Further disappointment followed with the loss to Zimbabwe at the semifinal stage of the Plate event. Our team was ultimately placed 11th and this had an impact on our seeding for the current event, resulting in a difficult group from which to qualify for the quarter-final play offs. The 4 pools comprise the following nations: Pool A: New Zealand, West Indies, South Africa, Kenya Pool B: Australia, India, Papua New Guinea, Zimbabwe Pool C: England, Bangladesh,

hosts annual Graaff Day

Offside

This traditional cricket day was held at the club on Sunday, 7 January. The fixture is one of the highlights on the club's cricket calendar and is contested by the Presidents XII against the Captains XII.

Tony O’Hagan

Each team fields 12 players and the match is decided over 35 overs. The President's team won the latest edition by the narrow margin of 2 wickets. Johann Graaff is the current Club President while the Captain's team was led by Mark Brumer. The day is a social occasion and an opportunity for the club to thank the sponsors and those who have supported the club in various ways.

Canada, Namibia Pool D: Pakistan, Sri Lanka, Ireland, Afghanistan Although cricket can be an unpredictable game, the two teams listed first in Pools B, C and D will be favoured to progress to the quarter-final knock out stages. However, Pool A is difficult to call and represents tough fixtures for our lads. In this group are the home nation, New Zealand and defending Cup holders, West Indies with only two teams progressing to the next stage. The two losers in each group will contest the Plate event. Since inception, Australia and India have each won the Cup on three occasions, Pakistan twice and one each for South Africa, England and the West Indies. New Zealand and Sri Lanka have contested finals but no victory. Our team is captained by

The history of this special event was documented in the memoirs of leader of the opposition in Government, Sir De Villiers Graaff's Div Looks Back. Excerpts from this include, "I arranged for the Parliamentary eleven to travel to Hermanus, which was then in my constituency, to play against the Hermanus Cricket Club and to celebrate the opening of its pavilion”. The year was 1955 and ''… the Hermanus club promptly elected me President". Raynard van Tonder is captaining the SA Under 19 Cricket team currently vying for the U 19 World Cup in New Zealand. Raynard van Tonder (Grey College, Bloemfontein) while Matthew Breetzke (Grey High School, PE) is the standout batsman, having already played senior SA A Cricket. This will be the last "hurrah" for 9 of our under 19s in this age group while there are 6 younger players who will carry the banner going forward.

A number of matches will be televised but in the early hours of the morning in South Africa, so I guess we will have to press the record button. We wish our young national side good luck and whatever the outcome, this will be a great experience for our young stars who may well gain Protea colours in the years ahead.

From that date a President's team has come to Hermanus every year, to play a match against the club's Captain's side. When Sir De Villiers Graaff vacated the position of President, it was passed down to his son, David and this wonderful tradition continues today with his son Johann as the Club President. Today the game is played on a more social basis but in the past these matches were fiercely contested with many well-known cricketers taking part. They included Springbok cricketers Jack Siedle (1930s), "Tuppy" Owen Smith, Clive van Ryneveld, Peter van der Merwe and Jack Plimsoll, to name a few. The recent Graaff Day was enjoyed by all and the occasion enabled the club to thank all supporters, sponsors and players for their contribution. A unique tradition and long may it last.