The Village NEWS 17 October-23 October 2018

NEWS NEWS

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17 October 2018

Cape Whale Coast

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A group of learners from Hermanus High School jump hand-in-hand into The Marine Pool’s cold water to celebrate their last day of school on Friday 20 October. See more photos on P19.

PHOTOS: Taylum Meyer

Walker Bay Recycling back on track De Waal Steyn

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f it were up to me, Hermanus will very soon regain its status as the cleanest town in the country,” says new co-owner of Walker Bay Recycling, Jacques van Niekerk.

Residents were overjoyed at the weekend when a social media post reveal-

ed that Walker Bay Recycling will resume its work after it was destroyed in a fire during the unrest in town in July of this year.

“We saw the huge need of residents to be able to recycle their household and office waste and Hannes Neyschens and I decided almost on a whim to contact previous owner, Jan van Niekerk and offer to buy the defunct business after he announced that he will be retiring. Oh, and lots

of people are asking. Jan and I share a surname, but we are not related,” quips Jacques.

According to him they have big plans for Walker Bay Recycling. “It is a well-established brand on the Whale Coast after being in business for 23 years. We are keeping the brand as is, but we will be doing a few extra things to keep recycling top-of-mind in our area. The first will be working together with Anton Odendal of

Birdlife Overberg to join their monthly beach clean-ups. We want to assist in projects that will make a difference for the residents and visitors to our towns. Through this and other projects, we want to grow the culture of recycling. There will also be recycling programmes at all the schools in the Overstrand to further ingrain the importance of recycling within our children.”

Jacques says they are in final nego-

tiations with the Overstrand Municipality’s Solid Waste Department on how they can work together. “There are a lot of logistics involved but, in the end, we want to offer the same ser-vices that residents are used to and more. Three of the first things we are doing is getting the old green tractor and trailer that everyone knows back on the roads in Hermanus Old Town, collecting recyclables from businesses and offices.

Continues on P 3

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17 October 2018

‘Bring your recycling to us’ From P 1 Secondly, we will look at getting the minitransfer stations back up and running, should we be awarded the municipal tender. Thirdly, we will accept clear plastic bags at our premises at 17 Argon Street. Households can now get back into the routine of separating household waste from recyclables and bring it to us. We urge residents to make use of this opportunity.”

At present collections will be done at businesses on Mondays, Wednesdays, and Fridays in Old Town and Voëlklip, including the areas the Golf Club and hospitals. On Tuesdays and Thursdays collections will be done in the industrial areas, Onrus and Vermont. Every second Tuesday collections will be done in the Hemel-en-Aarde Valley, every third Tuesday in Kleinmond, Betty’s Bay and Pringle Bay and Wednesdays in Stanford. Gansbaai will be added to the routes soon.

“We are aware that there is a big backlog created by the loss of the previous plant and we urge businesses to contact us to come and collect recyclables from them.

Residents can drop off their recyclable waste at any time during the week and over weekends at our premises where there will always be a skip available. We also have skips available for rent for building rubble,” says Jacques.

He asks residents to ensure that they do not mix their household waste with recyclables.

Place your paper, cartons, glass and plastic in separate clear bags so that is easier for us to sort through. If possible also separate clear and coloured plastics as it cannot be recycled at the same time. “Within the next few weeks our large industrial shredder will be in place.

Businesses who want to recycle their paper that contains sensitive information are more than welcome to come to the site and watch the shredding process so that they can be

assured that private information will not become public knowledge.”

Jacques and his wife Nerine hails from Johannesburg and moved to Hermanus six years ago. “I played indoor cricket at a provincial level while I was in Johannesburg and was included in the team to compete at the nationals that were held in Somerset West. We stayed over in Hermanus during the tournament and after exploring the town Nerine said: ‘we are moving here’ and that was that. A while later I opened Xpanda Hermanus and we have not looked back since,” he says. Business partner Hannes and his wife, Madelein, moved to Hermanus three years ago from Vereeniging where he owned a scrap metal business.

Jacques says almost 50% of the staff that worked for the company has been reappointed and new jobs will be created in the coming months.

Beaches retain Blue Flag status Overstrand Municipality has once again secured Blue Flag status for Grotto, Kleinmond and Hawston beaches, as well as pilot status for Castle Beach in Pearly Beach.

A total of 46 beaches, 8 marinas and 12 sustainable tourism boats around South Africa have been awarded Blue Flag status for the 2018/19 season.

This was announced at the Blue Flag launch at Santos Beach in Mossel Bay on 12 October 2018, which forms part of the National Blue Flag Programme, co-ordinated by the Wildlife and Environment Society of South Africa (WESSA).

The Blue Flag is the prestigious, voluntary eco-label for beaches that is recognised as a trusted symbol of quality, designed to raise environmental awareness and increase sound environmental practices among tourists and local residents as well as improve proper beach management.

Blue Flag status is awarded one season at a time and municipalities must apply annually to renew the status of their beaches. The Blue Flag reviewing panel, moreover, reserves the right to accept or withdraw membership should the qualifying criteria not be fulfilled.

To achieve Blue Flag status, 33 main criteria have to be met, including: • Compliance with Blue Flag criteria • Information relating to local eco-systems • Environmental management of beaches • Beach facilities such as parking, access points and cleanliness • Access for the physically disabled • Safety services provided on the beaches • Water quality, environmental education and information

Pilot beaches are not required to comply with all Blue Flag criteria, but must work towards meeting fundamental elements like water quality standards within a two-year period to stand a chance of ultimately acquiring full Blue Flag status.

The Municipality views the award as a real feather in its tourism cap, since the Blue Flag is regarded by the World Tourism Organisation as the most coveted and respected international award that could be bestowed on top beaches.

Grotto, Kleinmond and Hawston beaches offer top notch life-saving standards, effective top-rate ablution and parking facilities and, of course, access for the disabled to ensure that both local and international tourists will have the privilege of enjoying pristine beaches where everyone can make the most of all the amenities at their disposal.

Blue Flag standards are only enforced at the participating beach’s stated season, which varies from just one month of a year to the full 12 months.

Overstrand’s Blue Flag co-ordinator Lauren Rainbird (centre), Cllrs Arnie Africa and Grant Cohen, received Overstrand’s 2018/19 Blue Flag certificates for Grotto, Hawston, Kleinmond and Pilot Castle Beach. With them are Dr Thommie Burger, CEO of WESSA (far left) and Mossel Bay Deputy Mayor Dirk Kotzé (far right).

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17 October 2018

Camping site for De Mond always part of master plan De Waal Steyn

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he development of camping facilities at the De Mond site in Voëlklip has always been part of the master plan for the new development although it was only added to the immediate plans earlier this year, said Edmund Pohl of the Pretoria-based Pohl Property Development Group (PPDG).

The development once again came under the spotlight after PPDG posted an advertisement for Voëlklip Camping on social media, with Peter Hodgskin of the civil society group Hands Off Fernkloof questioning the desirability and legal and ecological aspects of the camping site.

In an open letter to the Municipality, Hodgskin wrote: “The De Mond caravan site, I remember from 42-odd years ago, was pristine and fabulous and accessible, and its demise is placed solely at the door of the Municipality. The site is advertised on social media as a pristine camping venue together with a beautiful video offering camp sites starting in December. This is utterly misleading as an inspection of the site shows. There is also no mention of the end game, namely conference centre, tennis courts, swimming pool, chalets, hotel et al…”

In its response the Municipality said in a statement the current zoning of the De Mond Caravan Park is inter alia ‘holiday accommodation’ and ‘tourist accommodation’. “During 2011/12 the Overstrand Municipality undertook an intensive investigation into the long-term lease of the De Mond Caravan Park. On 1 December 2011 this was advertised for public comment. Various inputs were received from the public regarding an envisaged long-term lease. Vogelgat and Klein River Lagoon property owners were two of the public parties that commented on the advert.

“During February 2012 the then Over-

strand Municipal Council considered the report and public input and approved the decision that a tender be called for a long-term lease,” said the Municipality in a statement last week.

“Following the Council’s decision, the property has twice been advertised to the broader public. The first tender had to be cancelled as the successful tenderer did not proceed with the project. It was advertised again, and the tender was awarded to the Pohl Property Development Group.”

The statement further reads: “Town Planning proposals in terms of envisaged consent uses are currently being finalised. Nothing prohibits the developer from making use of the property in accordance with its current primary use, subject to the developer having applied for the necessary services, concomitant with adherence to the Municipality's policies and by-laws.”

Pohl says, although Voëlklip Camping was proposed at a later stage of the development plans, a camping facility was always a part of the master plan.

“The existing infrastructure for the old De Mond caravan park made it possible to start this phase earlier. We will open approximately 20 to 30 campsites, depending on the number of bookings we receive for the December 2018 holiday season. There will be two

ablution facilities and a laundry room.

These structures are already present on the site but will be reinstated and/or refurbished.

population growth projections and figures as well as the models used have been questioned consistently.”

“We are hoping to extend Voëlklip Camping to over 100 sites by 2019 subject to public demand. As the development phases continue, Voëlklip Camping will decrease in size and move closer to its long-term position on site. We propose 18 camp sites in the long-term plan with each site having its own private ablution facilities.”

According to Pohl the current development plan consists of 7 phases.

“Construction on phase 1 is planned for February/March 2019, subject to Municipal approval on the existing 20 Klein River Lagoon Park units. The remainder of the phases will be subject to multiple factors including a tenant selection process, environmental concerns, financial climates and Municipal approval. A conference centre, multiple restaurants, a hotel and a spa are still proposed in the site development plan. PPDG will be meeting during the week of 15 October with the Municipality as well as with our engineers to discuss a service provision solution in terms of sewerage and water. We are controlling the volumes by managing the number of bookings.”

In his letter Hodgskin writes: “It is mentioned in the tender that the sewerage facilities are sufficient for the envisaged development. What are the dates of the population figures for Hermanus used to calculate this statement in the tender documents, considering that the latest available tender is dated 2015? The sewerage system is put under immense strain over holiday periods, especially during December, and the extra sewage envisaged, will have to enter an existing system. Who will pay for the upgrades required? We are told that the developers will be responsible for the infrastructure on site, but we are not told who will pay for the obviously required upgrade to the existing system once connected. I may mention that the

Hodgskin wrote: “At the moment the site is utterly destroyed and a health risk due to old septic tanks, electrical wires and old building rubble. The proximity of the Klein River estuary is of great concern. Who is observing the clean up? Also, of concern is the preservation of the indigenous vegetation which struggles to survive.”

In response Pohl said they have appointed a full environmental impact team and a local botanical specialist has already conducted a study on site to ensure that the development does not compromise the natural vegetation in any way. “A landscape architect has also been appointed who will work together with the botanist to ensure the architectural design considers the environmental issues. This has resulted in multiple design changes to the initial development plan. We would like our development to encompass the natural landscape as best as possible and our aim is to incorporate the majority of the indigenous trees and landscape within our development design.

“We are also aware of the baboon problem and are investigating various options to protect the campers as well as the baboons. Any part of the camp site which is not accessible due to flooding or other underground water sources will not be available for camp sites. This situation is being monitored and we have been informed that the water could be a potential health risk.

We will put up the necessary signage to ensure everyone’s safety.”

Pohl said they have thus far secured six reservations for eight sites in December at R750 per site for two adults. Any additional campers such as children will be charged extra.

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17 October 2018

Guardians of our sea and sand show their mettle from day one

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ust a day after two 16-year old boys from Hermanus High School completed the gruelling See & Sand Life Saving Course they were able to put their new skills to the test when they came to the rescue of two people who were caught in a rip current at Onrus Beach.

The two heroes, Daniel Carr and Adam LawsonSmith were chatting on the beach on Sunday, 7 October with their friend Jordan Johnston, who completed the same course last year, when they noticed a swimmer and a bodyboarder being swept out to sea by the rip current. Daniel and Adam immediately sprang into action paddling out to assist the pair while Johnston ran to fetch the lifesaving buoy.

The two lucky bathers were quickly back on terra firma after the brave duo told them to keep calm and literally go with the flow. “They were trying to paddle against the rip and obviously didn’t know that to escape you have to swim parallel to the beach to get out of the current before swimming back to shore,” a proud Daniel said. “It was great to put into practice what we’d learnt at the camp.”

See & Sand, the Hermanus-based ocean training centre, is gearing up for a busy end-ofyear holiday season, which will provide an opportunity for the 110 recently-qualified lifeguards who successfully completed its annual October training camp to put their skills to the test as scores of holidaymakers descend on the Southern Cape coast.

Manager Henk Esterhuysen says Sea & Sand is responsible for looking after 25 beaches stretching from Pringle Bay to Arniston. That requires two qualified lifeguards to be stationed at each beach from 9:00 to 18:00 every day, including Christmas and New Year’s Day, for the duration of the December holiday period. For most beaches along the Overstrand coast this runs from 1 December to 13 January, although smaller beaches like Struisbaai and Arniston will have lifeguards on duty from 15 December to 6 January.

“There’s a lot to organise as we have to allocate slots according to availability and make sure our lifeguards have accommodation and transport,” says Esterhuysen. “We always try to prioritise the lifeguards who have just completed our course because it gives us some assurance that they’re in the right physical and mental shape.”

See & Sand was founded by the legendary Sparks Esterhuysen in 1971 with the aim of

Boys and girls from Hermanus recently gave up their October vacation to attend the gruelling Lifesaving Course at prawn flats. It included running, jumping into the ocean, rescuing and carrying heavy bodies out of the ocean. A wonderful course for building confidence. They've committed to working during the December holidays at various beaches in the area. educating young people to become responsible human beings who look out for each other but also have a deep love and respect for nature. Since then See & Sand has grown into a highly-respected ocean training academy and still trains the navy and army every year, in addition to providing various training courses that are open to the public.

Its annual Life Saving Selection Course took place this year from 29 September to 6 October and saw 120 students enduring gruelling 12-hour days in order to qualify.

Under the tutelage of 11 instructors, candidates had to complete a multitude of tasks including swimming, running, first aid, theoretical classes and cliff jumping off the infamous Dreunkrans.

“There’s a lot of running and swimming involved, and we deliberately try to push the candidates to their limits as we need to know they’ve got what it takes to rescue someone in the rough seas we can experience on the Southern Cape Coast,” says Esterhuysen. “For example, we don’t do any wetsuit swims as we need to prepare our lifeguards for the cold-water temperatures they will experience. This year the majority of our candidates passed but we did have a few who didn’t qualify, mainly due to injury or simply not having sufficient experience in the conditions.”

Perhaps the toughest activity of the course was a 36 km run from the See & Sand basecamp, located at Prawn Flats on the shores of the Hermanus Lagoon, to Onrus

Adam Lawson Smith (L) and Daniel Carr (R).

Both boys know the coastline extremely well and could see that the bather was in distress, even with the aid of his body board. They didn't hesitate to go in after him, and kept him calm throughout the ordeal. beach and back. Once at Onrus beach, candidates had to complete three swims out to sea, which involved negotiating the tricky rip current along the rocks, before swimming across the bay and back to shore. After completing this exercise three times they then had to run all the way back to Prawn Flats.

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17 October 2018

Let’s Talk

THE

NEWS

Gas Deliveries 028 312 2020

Send your letters to dewaal@thevillagenews.co.za

It’s time for POOP! In an opinion piece for the Daily Maverick on 11 September 2018, Pierre De Vos, a South African constitutional law scholar at UCT, wrote that the current electoral system in municipalities has not, as a general rule, made councillors more accountable to voters.

He offered two reasons for this.

“First, because a political party’s support is often concentrated in specific areas (an ANC candidate is not currently going to win a ward seat in the Southern Suburbs of Cape Town and neither is a DA candidate going to win a ward in Khayelitsha), most ward councillors have little incentive to please voters. Instead, to keep their jobs, most ward councillors must please party bosses because those bosses have the final say on who the party will nominate in a specific ward.”

“Second, while party affiliations might change over time, most voters largely vote for political parties and not for individual candidates – even when they have the choice to select the candidate. If the DA nominates a traffic light as ward councillor for Sea Point, the traffic light will get elected.”

“Candidates [in constituency or ward elections] are elected in their own right, but that is mainly as a result of their association with a political party.

It should be remembered that one can reject an individual candidate only by voting for a candidate from

Hermanus

To be fair, at least from my own personal experience, there are some councillors who don’t fall into either of these categories, but you can count them on one hand.

another political party, and that may just be asking too much of many voters, regardless of where they find themselves on the political spectrum. In reality, the opportunity to reject an individual candidate in an election seldom materialises.”

So what is the solution?

In simple terms, given the current political system operating in municipalities where 50% of the ward councillors are directly elected and 50% are appointed using the proportional representation system, people still vote for the political party even if they don’t like the individual.

It’s time for POOP - People of Overstrand Party, a group of progressive individuals who truly are passionate about the Overstrand, have no allegiances to any political party, are independent and are not scared to stand up to the senior elected and unelected leadership of the Municipality.

The result is that the needs of the residents of the municipality come second to party politics.

This isn’t a new idea. Across South Africa, municipality-based-only ‘political parties’ are increasingly making strides in getting elected.

In many instances, these movements are the swing vote deciding whether a municipality will be DA- or ANC-led. And unlike the EFF, which is playing this role in Gauteng and the Eastern Cape, but in a destructive and often racist way, these municipality-based-only parties have no aspirations beyond their own municipality. The Karoo Gemeenskap (Community) Party in the Prince Albert Municipality is a good example.

In the Overstrand, we have 25 councillors who are either scared to rock the boat or are more interested in using their position as a stepping stone ‘to greater things’. They are ‘ATM councillors’, completely out of touch with the needs of the residents they are supposed to be serving.

This isn’t my opinion. Speak to enough people from all political persuasions, including senior members within the political parties themselves, and this common thread quickly emerges. In a community where there are so many diverse views, it is good to see that there is one issue on which everyone agrees!

So what do you think? Isn’t it time for POOP? Think of all the great slogans. Viva POOP! Slaavid

Name change for university initiative Please note that the name of the Hermanus University College has been changed to Hermanus Varsity to comply with government regulations.

Many people who read the article about the project in The Village NEWS last week have asked for further information. As reported, this is a ‘work in progress’ so nothing has yet been finalized. But very positive developments are in the pipeline and these will all be contained in the proposal that will be presented on 22 November 2018.

The positive response to Hermanus Varsity thus far, has been wonderful.

We would like to thank some ‘Friends of Hermanus Varsity’ for providing ssupport both in kind and financial to the initiative. They are Office National, Creation Wines, Dutchies, Ocean Basket, The Book Cottage, White Shark Projects, Hermanus Forest Adventures, Steyn Wilson Law, The Village NEWS and Whale Printing.

Beverly Moller, Executive Administrator

Keep an eye on your pets I live in Sandbaai and walk my dog every day along Main Road from the traffic circle towards the sea.

gutted. Also, amongst the plastic, there was, what appeared to be other bits of animal parts.

On Sunday morning, 7 October 2018 I made a gruesome discovery behind the wooden bins on the lefthand side of Main Road. Half covered up with a black plastic bag were two dead small brown dogs.

At first, I thought that they may have been run over but on closer examination, it was clear that they were actually skinned and half

This has signs of a possible muti killing and small dog owners should watch out for their pets.

I personally reported this to the police and they said they would go and investigate.

John Robb, Sandbaai

Weather forecast for the next week & De Bos Dam level

www.yr.no

Wednesday 17 October

Thursday 18 October

Friday 19 October

Saturday 20 October

Sunday 21 October

Monday 22 October

Tuesday 23 October

13°C / 20°C

17°C / 19°C

16°C / 18°C

16°C / 21°C

15°C / 24°C

18°C / 32°C

27°C / 28°C

Partly Cloudy

Cloudy

Partly Cloudy

Clear

Clear

Partly cloudy

Clear

De Bos Dam Level

76.6%

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17 October 2018

Fernkloof Nature Reserve needs a plan I hereby request that the Overstrand Municipality becomes compliant with the National Environment Management Protected Areas Act of 2005, which stipulates that all nature reserves should have an Integrated Management Plan (IMP). Fernkloof Nature Reserve has been without such a plan and therefore non-compliant for 12 years now.

Over this time, large amounts of money have been spent on consultants, to little avail. The Fernkloof Advisory Board (FAB), in conjunction with the Municipal Environmental Department, which falls under the Directorate of Infrastructure and Planning, developed an IMP in 2014, which successfully passed a public participation process.

However, the Director of Infrastructure and Planning wanted to be able to utilise 476 hectares of our 1 800 hectares for “theme park” activities without further public consultation or Ward Council participation.

So, in 2017, without consulting the FAB, his department produced a new draft IMP. This resulted in a public meeting attended by over 500 irate residents. The community group Hands off Fernkloof started a petition against this draft IMP with over 14 000 signatories. At that public meeting it was

THE

NEWS

agreed that an amended draft IMP will be produced in conjunction with FAB. One year later, we are told that the plan is still incomplete. This highlights the urgent need for our Municipality to have an independent Environmental Directorate.

Antony Van Hoogstraten Liezl de Villiers, Senior Environmental Manager, answers: I cannot contest what Mr van Hoogstraten is saying; he is correct that the IMP has taken exceptionally long to complete, however, there have been many hurdles. Since 2013 only one consultant has been used to develop the IMP, Withers Environmental. In 2014 a draft IMP was submitted for public participation. The document was revised in August 2017 and again submitted for comment, but this document was not accepted

by FAB, CapeNature and a large group of the public. After this process I committed myself to revising the document. This has been done but the additional maps are still being finalized. This process has taken so long because we do not have the dedicated staff to only deal will this one matter. We have come very far, and the aim is to give the document to FAB by the end of October 2018.

OPINION Matters

Thank you Walker Bay Recycling

B

The cameras on every pole are warning enough, but the image of dogs tearing humans limb from limb on the KEEP OUT signs are straight out of Dracula. With armed guards in camouflage and the intermittent crackling of the electric fence, the message couldn’t be clearer.

An even BIGGER thank you must also be given to Jan van Niekerk, who, after 23 years, is retiring. Jan had the vision to set up Walker Bay Recycling at a time when recycling wasn’t even on the radar for most citizens and municipalities.

With only 10% of waste recycled in South Africa, according to Stats SA, the country still has a long way to go to reduce its footprint on the environment. As a municipality, we now have the opportunity to breathe new life and excitement into our own recycling initiative.

This is understandable when you realise just who is allowed access to the luxurious 5-star chalets behind this forbidding perimeter. Rock royalty, film stars, real royalty, heads of state and oil barons are rumoured to slip in and out unnoticed. We can only speculate what goes on down there, and we cling onto the grapevine of gossip with the hope of gleaning something salacious.

In the little pub inside the Duck ’n Fiddle the grapevine was bearing fruit.

Some of the regular ‘sundowners’ were in their regular seats drinking their regular tipples. Klippies Combrink was onto his fourth brandy ’n coke, so his stutter had almost disappeared, and Sparky Snyman the local electrician, having flattened his first beer before even reaching his barstool, had now settled down and between belches was attacking number three.

Mitsy de la Cruz, the Spanish dance teacher from up the valley ordered another double tequila – her Gulp of Mexico – and only Druiwe du Toit, normally a prolific Merlot quaffer, asked for a glass of water.

“Water?” gaped Henrico the barman in

The branding on the sachet said it all though. BIONIC ORIFICE. Extinguish that smouldering sphincter. Est 1871. It was an offer not to be sneezed at.

Anyway, Mitsy claimed she had spotted a bloke with red hair arriving at the gates to the exclusive enclave and was convinced it was Prince Harry. Apparently one of her dance pupils, a chambermaid in the resort, had overheard him tell his wife Meg that their flat in Kensington was finally refurbished, so they could fly back in a few days.

This got them all discussing redheads in general and why they hate being called Ginger or Roeskop, when out of the blue, in strolled the real deal. It wasn’t Harry, but the flaming red hair and beard, the kilt and the ridiculous accent left no

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

Design and Layout Nickey Jackson 079 408 7722 nickey@thevillagenews.co.za

Let’s not waste (pun intended!) it!

Murray Stewart thevillagemuze@gmail.com

“Ja, man. My guts is all upside-down and bubbling like it wants to get out,” he moaned. “Too much Tabasco and peri-peri with the crayfish last night – now I’ve got the burning squirts big time. I’m too scared to cough.” He pulled out a sachet and poured it into his water. “They say this is the only stuff that helps,” he said, stirring what looked like pond scum into the water.

Publishing Editor De Waal Steyn 083 700 3319 dewaal@thevillagenews.co.za

The fact that Overstrand has won the Waste Management category at the Western Cape Greenest Municipality Awards 7 times in the last 9 years is a testament to Jan’s dedication and passion. To Jan and his team, thank you, thank you, thank you.

A Far Kraai

disbelief, and the pub fell silent. He’d never ordered anything like that before.

028 312 2234

Those of us who have reluctantly had to put recyclable trash into black bags for garbage collection, instead of clear plastic bags over the past months, will greet the news that Walker Bay Recycling is back on track with a HUGE hurrah and a BIG thank you to the new co-owners Jacques van Niekerk and Hannes Neyschens for understanding and seizing the opportunity.

This is good NEWS – ED

Out of the blue, in strolled a redhead ehind the cottages at the Duck ’n Fiddle, an electrified fence prevents access to the hidden valley where only the rich and famous gather.

The Team

6 Royal Street, Hermanus

doubt – this bloke wasn’t local. He looked like a parcel posted to the wrong address – lost, bewildered and in need of a wee dram or two.

After calming down he recounted his recent visit to the hospital to visit a friend. Through the curtains he’d heard the last dying wishes of the old guy in the next bed, while Ma and the three daughters sat sobbing at his bedside.

“Bremulda, my dear wife,” he wheezed, “to you I leave the row of beach cottages in Kleinmond. (Sobs.) To Marie, my oldest I give you the block of flats in Eastcliff. (More sniffles.)

Sunette, to you I hand over the four wine farms in the valley, (wheeze) and to my youngest, Petra, I leave you the three hotels overlooking the bay.”

The sobbing and wailing – while listening to a man dying – were too much for the Scot and he left in search of a quiet pub to reflect.

“I feel sorry for the family’s loss,” said the Scot to the hushed regulars, “but I’m sure they’ll be well looked after.

He was obviously a very successful and wealthy man to have left all those properties to his family.”

“Properties?” snorted Druiwe. “No Scotty. That sounds like Oom Banjo Beneke. He didn’t own those properties. Banjo delivered newspapers.”

Office Administrator Tania Hamman admin@thevillagenews.co.za

FOR FACT’S SAKE Fill those awkward silences and astound your friends with facts they can bandy about at dinner parties, the bowling club or the waiting room at the traffic department.

1. An ancient war was cancelled by a shadow. In 585 BCE the armies of Lydia and Media were preparing for battle in Asia Minor when a total eclipse occurred.

Sobered and superstitious of ‘the shadow of the wrath of the gods’, both nations decided against murdering each other and signed a peace treaty instead.

2. By ‘interpreting’ the Book of Revelations, the local minister in Lochau (nowdays Germany), predicted the world’s end on October 18th 1533. When the day dawned and nothing happened, the minister – Machael Stiftel – was given a public thrashing by the townsfolk.

3. The Eiffel Tower is made of wrought-iron lattice. It stands over 3 rugby fields high, with 2 500 000 rivets in it – that’s twoand-a-half million – so it probably won’ fall over. Unless it rusts, which it does daily.

4. The first children’s book published in the USA, was written by Puritan preacher John Cotton in 1646 in Cambridge, Massachusetts. It was called Spiritual Milk for Boston Babes, Drawn from the Breasts of Both Testaments for Their Soul’s Nourishment. Catchy title.

Marketing Manager Kathy Bentley 083 581 7219 kathy@thevillagenews.co.za

Marketing Representative Laetitia Prinsloo 082 738 3765 ads@thevillagenews.co.za

Journalist Elaine Davie 084 343 7500

Photography & Social Media Taylum Meyer 084 564 0779 taylum@thevillagenews.co.za

WHERE TO FIND US The Village NEWS is published every week and the next edition will be available on 24 October. The NEWS can be found at over 300 distribution points on the Cape Whale Coast, from Pringle Bay to Gansbaai. Get your FREE copy from major retail stores such as Spar, Checkers and Pick n Pay, and at restaurants, tasting rooms, galleries and shopping centres. Should you wish to receive a copy, call us on 028 312 2234 or 083 228 7523 or pop into our office at 6 Royal Street, Hermanus.

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17 October 2018

THE

NEWS

Let’s Talk

Finalists strut their stuff in Kleinmond Got Talent

Send your letters to dewaal@thevillagenews.co.za

Please Sir, we would like some more land In last week’s The Village NEWS, Mayor Dudley Coetzee, in reference to the new shacks that have been erected in Zwehile, was quoted as saying, “As far as we know, these structures were erected by current residents who have been living in other people’s backyards. We are not aware of an influx of new residents into the area.” (VN 10 October 2018).

Ignorance, they say, is bliss. Ten minutes walking through Zwehile and talking with residents would have properly answered this question.

So, let me share with you what I learnt.

1. Yes, the Mayor is indeed correct that existing residents have been moving to the new sites and there is plenty of evidence, when you walk or drive through, of backyard shacks being dismantled and reassembled.

ployed person who is already living here. Rather they will recommend a family member, cousin or close friend and ask them to come to Hermanus.

4. Finally, with Zimbabwe now facing its worst economic crisis in a decade, with prices soaring, limits on bread purchases, and long queues for fuel, we should expect more of these citizens to make Die Groot Trek to our shores.

I would like to remind the Mayor that the 2011 census said there were 18 210 residents in Zwehile.

The Mayor usually, in speeches and presentations, says that the Zwelihle population is around 22 000 (a 5% per annum growth), although NGOs and local residents believe the figure is closer to 27 000 to 30 000 (a 10% per annum growth).

The point being is that, just like the whole of Hermanus has been growing faster than the national average with new residents, why should this suburb be any different? The only difference is that the opportunity cost is cheaper.

2. But what the Mayor doesn’t understand is that many of these backyard structures were put up by the owners of the property or RDP house. Many of these are now empty as the occupants have moved out and built their own. But this now means that the rental income per shack, typically between R700 and R1 500 a month, that these “landlords” were receiving, has now reduced substantially. Like any good landlord they are now advertising for new tenants.

If the Mayor and, by extension, the municipality were really serious about this issue and committed to ensuring that all residents live decently, they would have insisted that all structures that do not conform to the building bylaws of the municipality be dismantled once the occupants have been resettled on the new land.

3. Thankfully, Hermanus businesses and residents are starting to rehire staff again. As elsewhere, most of us ask our trusted existing employees, housekeepers or gardeners, for example, to recommend someone, knowing there is a better chance of success to get someone who can be trusted and will work well. The bad news is that they are not likely to recommend an unem-

This would ensure that instead of creating a much bigger problem in a few months and years (Please Sir, we would like some more land) the community would rather focus on ensuring that existing residents are being serviced properly. So Mr Mayor. You are wrong. Care to take a bet about this? A case of red wine perhaps?

Ray Swart

I

t wasn’t Broadway, or even off-offBroadway, but one thing’s for sure, the audience got their money’s worth at the Finals of Kleinmond Got Talent last Friday evening. The rafters of the frigid church hall lifted, the floor vibrated and even the red plush stage curtains seemed to swish open with a special flourish as one act followed another. Mass audience participation was the name of the game and each performance was greeted with tumultuous applause, raucous laughter or shouts of encouragement.

We are so used to canned entertainment that this event was guaranteed to blow the cobwebs away and remind one of what small town life is all about.

There were seven finalists, all of whom acquitted themselves with great selfassurance and aplomb. So what if some of them may have been a little rough around the edges; they all had talent and they all had heart and the audience loved them. After each act the four sympathetic judges, Daniel Morake of Whale Coast FM, Nicki Daly, children’s book author/illustrator and musician, Councillor Grant Cohen of the Overstrand Municipality and Elvitia Wilschut, a Proteadorp community member, gave the performers encouraging feedback, together with pointers about how they might improve.

The finalists were a Handevat Marimba Group of energetic and accomplished 9-12-year-olds; Inathi Thwani, a diminutive singer from Kleinmond Primêr who sang a gospel song with great warmth and fervour; an a capella group called Blessings comprising six girls and one boy from the same school, whose singing was accompanied by some very smooth moves, and Queens of Drama, a hilarious comedy duo who write their own short sketches highlighting local social issues.

After a much-needed interval (for the audience to bolster its energy levels for the rest of the evening), the last three acts followed: three rappers, calling themselves The Folks (a fourth member, perhaps overcome by nerves, was a no-show); Sinoyolo Koti,

Winner of Kleinmond Got Talent 2018, singer Dirja Lekas (Didi), well on her way to a career in showbiz.

The three top acts, Didi, Queens of Drama and Blessings. They are all winners all the way.

PHOTOS: Taylum Meyer a young singer of 11 years old, also known as Baby Beyoncé, who chose a fiendishly difficult song to sing, and lastly, a recent arrival in Kleinmond, tall, slim 14-year-old Dirja (Didi) Lekas with an impressive blonde afro and a mindblowing Tina Turner voice. A couple of additional acts kept the audience revved up while the votes were tallied.

Then the moment everyone had been waiting for: And the Winner is … (drum roll) … DIDI! Everyone got to their feet in a stamping, standing ovation for this outstanding young

performer. With professional training and guidance, she undoubtedly has the potential to succeed as a brilliant performing artist. Second and Third prizes went respectively to Queens of Drama and Blessings, the youthful a capella choir. But the greatest award of the evening must go to the audience.

What top-notch performer wouldn’t have died for such a responsive, enthusiastic and engaged audience, with such an abundance of good will and joy to share?

– Elaine Davie

Village

EXPLORER The

FOOD • WINE • EVENTS • NATURE

Domaine des Dieux adds sparkle to Hemel-en-Aarde patient waiting, the vines were ready and they produced their maiden Claudia Brut MCC, released to the public in 2010 after three and a half years on the lees and a year on cork.

This was followed by their Rose of Sharon Brut Rose MCC in 2007, released in 2011.

Frieda Lloyd

T

he record number of whales in Walker Bay is one reason to celebrate. Now we have another sparkling excuse: Hermanus winery Domaine Des Dieux recently came out tops as South Africa's Best Cap Classique Producer at the 17th annual Amorim Cap Classique Challenge, with their Claudia Brut MCC 2012 winning the Best Brut Méthode Cap Classique trophy.

The Amorim Cap Classique Challenge is South Africa’s leading event bestowing recognition to the country’s astounding array of naturally-fermented sparkling wines, known as Méthode Cap Classique. According to Amorim, the world’s largest supplier of cork stoppers, this year’s competition saw a record number of entries (127 in total) reflecting a seemingly insatiable thirst for Cap Classique sparkling wines among South African consumers and growing confidence in this category by producers.

Owner Sharon Parnell, daughter Megan and Wine Ambassador for the brand, Shane Mullis, are three of the personalities behind the Domaine des Dieux brand that locals have come to know and love – and they see this award as a huge honour, especially as they are a small team at work in Hemel-en-Aarde.

The farm was bought in 2002 and a combination of good quality grapes, much patience and a love of champagne set the stage for Domaine des Dieux to officially become the first producer of MCC in the Hemel-en-Aarde region. In 2006, after four years of

Sharon Parnell with the winning Domaine des Dieux Claudia Brut MCC 2012 at this year's Amorim Cap Classique Challenge.

Domaine des Dieux is no newbie to the Cap Classique Challenge. In 2014 they received the same acknowledgement – and the second time is just as sweet (or in this case, dry!) – as this boutique cellar has a special philosophy of not chasing new releases but rather waiting for the message from the bottle, where ageing does its bit to develop flavours that are comparable to the best of France’s Champagne region.

Their Rose of Sharon Brut Rose MCC is also highly acclaimed and has achieved Gold in previous Amorim Cap Classique Challenges. But this year, Claudia is the star and received the highest score of all 127 wines entered into the competition, making it the best Overall Wine and Domaine des Dieux South Africa’s Best Cap Classique Producer.

The 2018 Amorim Cap Classique Challenge winners: from left are JP Colmant (Best Blanc de Blancs Trophy), Kobus van der Merwe, KWV Laborie (Gold Medal Blanc de Blancs), Christine Rudman, Frans Malan Trophy winner, Etienne Louw, Pierre Simond Wines (Gold Medal Blanc de Blancs), Shane Mullis, Domaine des Dieux (Best Brut Trophy and Best Overall Producer), Charl Schoeman, Simonsig (Best Rosé Trophy), Hannes Nel, Lourensford (Gold Medal Brut), Pierre de Klerk, Graham Beck Wines (Gold Medal Blanc de Blancs) Xander Grier, Villiera (Gold Medal Brut) and Elunda Basson, Pongracz (Museum Class Trophy). In front is Sharon Parnell (Domaine des Dieux).

According to Cape Wine Master Heidi Duminy, the convener of the judging panel, it is apparent that producers are making Cap Classique in an increasingly definitive Cape style instead of aiming for Champagne look-alikes.

“It appears that over time, producers have benefitted from their experience with base wines to best achieve a defined character in the bottlefermentation process,” she said. “Even

though the classic Champagne grape varieties still perform the best, there is definitely a clearer character differentiation emerging with a thread of unified quality that seems to be linked to time on the lees. And of course, the generosity of Cape regionality and terroir. I think we are succeeding in establishing the features and styles that will position Cap Classique as unique to the world.”

This award is a win for Domaine Des Dieux, its owners and also for our region as it confirms the reputation of Hemelen-Aarde as South Africa's premium wine growing region. What is also exciting is that the demand for Méthode Cap Classique is increasing world-wide and even more so with the number of wedding venues in our region. Bona Dea Estate, The One Heaven and Earth, De Uijleness and Die Woud are a few of the takers who will be increasing their orders of Claudia Brut for the numerous wedding ceremonies that are adding to the Overberg’s popularity as one of South Africa’s most romantic destinations.

Domaine des Dieux’s highly acclaimed range of wines also includes a Sauvignon Blanc, Chardonnay, Pinot Noir and Syrah/Mourvedre blend. Their pictureperfect tasting room in Hemel-en-Aarde Ridge (next door to Creation) is open seven days a week and well worth a visit.

For those who haven’t tried Domaine des Dieux’s bubbly, their Bottomless Bubbly Friday events at the tasting room on the last Friday of every month are the perfect opportunity to indulge.

For more information, follow them on Facebook or call 028 313 2126.

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17 October 2018

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Thursday 18 October

■ Hermanus Business Chamber: Join the HBC for a social networking session. New, old and potential members are invited to come and introduce themselves, share business news, discuss crucial business issues, and enjoy delicious cocktail snacks and drinks.

The first glass is on the house, the rest a cash bar. The portfolio managers will tell you of their plans and new initiatives to make Hermanus a profitable and safe place to do business. Anyone is welcome to sponsor lucky draw prizes. Members R100, nonmembers R130. Contact Alta on 028 315 1619 or send a WhatsApp to 073 538 3685. At Hermanus Golf Club, from 18:00 – 20:00.

■ Rotary Club of Hermanus: Visitors are welcome at Rotary’s weekly meetings. Contact Frank on 082 870 1187 to confirm your attendance. At Mollergren Park, every Thursday at 19:00.

Friday 19 October

■ Rewind: Join Soul Café every Friday night and relax to the tunes of their resident band as they perform all your favourite hits from the ‘60s, ‘70s and ‘80s. R50 pp. Call 028 313 2137 to book. At Soul Café, 181 Main Road, Hermanus, at 20:00.

Saturday 20 October ■ Berg & Beach Trail Run: Choose between 7 km, 18 km or 30 km trails up, over and through the moun-tains of beautiful Fernkloof Nature Reserve.

The longer distances will take you through foot paths along the beach front and loop back into the mountain. Don’t miss out – entries limited to 150 runners per distance. Entry fees: 7 km – R80, with the option of purchasing a branded, technical race cap at R100. The 18 km at R270 and 30 km at R420 include a branded, technical race cap. Enter online at www.entryninja.com. Register and collect race numbers at the venue on Friday 19 October between 18:00 – 20:00 or on the Saturday from 06:00 – 07:00. At Fernkloof Nature Reserve, from 07:15.

■ Bhuki Café: Everyone is welcome at Friends of the Library's Bhuki Cafe where a cup of tea or coffee and delicious eats will cost only R20. Every cup helps to raise funds for new books. Every Friday from 09:00 – 11:30, at Hermanus Library.

■ Kolwyntjie Teetuin: Everyone in the area is welcome to enjoy a sweet treat and tea or coffee at a nominal fee, and make new friends at the Onrus Care Centre (Dienssentrum). At the Onrus Dutch Reformed Church, every Friday between 09:30 and 11:30.

■ The History of Ancient Egypt: This popular DVD series presented by U3A Overberg continues with the topics of Dynasty XXVI, The Saite Period; and Dynasty XXVII, The Persians presented by Gert Claassen. In the Catholic Church Hall, at 10:00.

■ Hermanus Botanical Society: Join BotSoc for their Friday evening talks. The guest speaker this week is Vic Hamilton-Attwell whose presentation is entitled The History of Plant Names. We all take it for granted that plants and animals have either vernacular or scientific names. Although the Bible refers to the fact that Adam named the animals, it seems that nobody named plants! Where did it all start? Vic will look at the fascinating way in which plant names evolved from Biblical and Arabian times, to those with which we are now familiar. For more information, contact Anneke Otto on 079 872 9631. In the Fernkloof Hall, at 17:30 for 18:00.

■ Variety Concert: An evening of fun, drama, music, dance, poetry, comedy and lots of laughter!

Tickets are R100 pp and there will be food and wine available from 17:30 for a donation. At the Dutch Reformed Church, Onrus, at 19:00.

■ Critical Mass: Everyone with a bicycle is invited to join Critical Mass, a social bike ride to celebrate cycling as a healthy, safe and eco-friendly mode of transport in Hermanus. Join the group for a special meal and drinks at Embers after the ride. For more information, contact Carel Kushke on 074 849 5936.

Meet at the whale sculpture on Market Square, at 18:00.

■ Coastal Cleanup: Join BirdLife Overberg on their regular coastal clean-up, which forms part of their CleanMarine Project. This is an opportunity for nature lovers to give something back and make a difference by dedicating only a few hours. This month’s cleanup will focus on the second section of the beautiful Hoek van de Berg Reserve. Confirm your participation by 18 Oct by contacting Elaine via sms on 082 455 8402 or Helé on 073 456 0393. They will give all further details. Meet in the parking area in front of the OK at the Onrus Trading Centre at 08:00.

■ Market in the Garden: Hunt for treasures at this peaceful market set among the shady trees of a beautiful garden. At St Peter’s Church in Main Road, Hermanus, from 09:00 – 13:00.

■ Fioré Country Market: Browse this new country market in Bot River for homemade crafts, books, local treats, fresh fruit and more. Stands are free and in the event of rain the market moves indoors.

For enquiries, contact Debbie Randall on 028 284 9220. At Fioré Garden Centre & Coffee Shop, Bot River, from 09:00 – 14:00.

■ Botrivier Hotel Market: For hand-made crafts and tasty treats, come and browse the new weekly market in the hotel garden. New vendors are welcome; contact Erna at ernastark@outlook.com or 028 315 2582 or WhatsApp 076 708 0818 to book your stall. At the Botrivier Hotel, every Saturday, from 10:00 – 14:00.

■ Harcourts Wag in the Park: Bring your fourlegged children and join Harcourts for some fun in the park in support of HAWS. This family-friendly charity event for the whole family will include a flea market and a doggy parade. To register, WhatsApp ‘Wag in the Park’ to 084 516 0744 along with your name, your dog’s name and your email address. All entrants to donate a bag of dog food or a blanket. For more information, call 028 316 2980. In Rheezicht Park, on the c/o Main Road and Rheezicht Crescent, Onrus, from 11:00 – 14:00.

■ St Peter’s Concert: The last recital that forms part of the 150th anniversary celebrations of St Peter’s Church will feature Mezzo Soprano Caren McDonald with Alistair McDonald on trumpet, and organ accompaniment by Rensche J van Rensburg.

Entry is free but donations will be appreciated. At St Peter’s Church, Main Road, Hermanus at 12:30.

■ Hermanus parkrun: Meet for the weekly 5 km walk or run, come rain or shine. The route is dog friendly and children are most welcome. Set off from the Overstrand Training Institute (OTI) farm on Camphill Road in Hemel-en-Aarde Valley, at 08:00.

■ Hermanus Country Market: A favourite among the locals. Young, old, two-legged and four-legged family members are all welcome. You’ll find wholesome goodies, home-made crafts, local produce, beers and wine, speciality foods, coffee and live music. Next to the cricket field, Fairways Avenue, from 09:00 – 13:00.

■ Hermanuspietersfontein Food & Wine Market: Where local and international foodies and wine lovers meet. You’ll find real plates and real cutlery; real cups and real glasses; a real hangout for real people. In the courtyard of Hermanuspietersfontein wine cellar at The Village, from 09:00 – 13:00.

■ Piet Botha & Jake Gunn: Piet Botha will be performing in Hermanus for the first time in five years with young guitar-maestro Jake Gunn. An intimate, acoustic night of soulful blues from two great guitarists. R100 pp. Call 028 313 2137 to book. At Soul Café, at 20:00.

Sunday 21 October ■ Music in The Courtyard: Enjoy Summer Tunes in The Courtyard behind The Wine Glass with a DJ, oysters and bubbly, wine, craft beers and tapas. For more info call 028 312 2553. At 2 Harbour Road, every Sunday from 12:00.

Monday 22 October ■ Afrikaans Lecture Series: U3A Overberg presents a talk by Prof Desmond Painter on Elsa Joubert’s acclaimed novel, Spertyd. In the Catholic Church Hall, at 10:00.

■ Mindful Mondays: Join Wellness Coach Nicholas McLean, also known as the Gut Health Yogi, for a group session on Mindfulness, Move-ment and Meditation. Let go of stress and dis-traction, and realign body and mind to find inner focus and calm.

Sessions are free but donations by choice are welcome. Contact Nicholas on 082 437 9776. Fynbos Crescent, Sandbaai, every Monday at 18:00.

Tuesday 23 October ■ Terrific Tuesdays: Join Wellness Coach Nicholas McLean, also known as the Gut Health Yogi, for a group session of BodySensing intuitive yoga to release tension and restore energy and mobility. The feel-good movements of BodySensing will put the spring back into your body. Sessions are free, or a donation by choice. For more info call Nicholas on 082 437 9776. Fynbos Crescent, Sandbaai, every Tuesday at 07:30.

■ Pablo Picasso: U3A presents a lecture on the 45th anniversary of the death of Picasso, by Letitia Snyman. In the Catholic Church Hall, at 10:00.

■ The Fishy Smiths: Whale Coast Conservation invites you to a talk about The Fishy Smiths: A Biography of JLB & Margaret Smith, as told by Mike Bruton. The author will recount the Smiths’ formative years and serendipitous meeting, leading up to the discovery of the coelacanth, the tumultuous years that followed and their extraordinary contribution to science. Don’t miss this fascinating story awash with adventure, travel, discovery, risk-taking and neardeath experiences. R20 donation to environmental education. Copies of The Fishy Smiths will be for sale at a discount. At The Green House, R43, Vermont, at 17:30.

Thursday 25 October

■ Fernkloof Fireflies: Join Whale Coast Conservation on an eco-adventure to learn more about the magical Fernkloof fireflies. R120 for adults and R60 for children. This event is weather-dependent; contact Anina Lee on the day to confirm at anina.wcc@gmail.com or 083 242 3295. At Fernkloof Nature Reserve, from 19:00 – 21:00.

Friday 26 October ■ Hermanus Music Society: Wessel van Wyk, acclaimed as one of South Africa’s most prominent and versatile classical piano soloists, will perform all 14 of Frédéric Chopin’s canonic, opus-numbered, waltzes. Music Society members should book early for their guests at R120 pp and inform David Rowson if they cannot attend on 028 316 2335 or rowson@telkomsa.net. In the homestead cellar of Bouchard Finlayson winery in Hemel-en-Aarde Valley; drinks at 17:45 and recital starts at 18:30.

17 October 2018

Hermanus businesses are actively getting involved in recognising bicycles as a fun, sustainable and safe mode of transport. On Friday, 19 October Critical Mass will host its tenth ride and riders can look forward to mouth-watering Critical Mass Hermanus (#CMCEM) specials from Embers’ wood-fired oven. After the ride participants can enjoy either a vegetarian, maestro or capriciosa pizza and a pint of Old Harbour lager for only R120 – a saving of almost R30. Post Artisan Coffee is, as always, involved in the organisation of the ride and Precision Cycles and GoBike rentals are standing by with top technical service and fantastic deals on rental bikes. René Duiker of Precision Cycles will get your wheels spinning with spare parts and accessories, while Dean Gillat's supercool cruisers and mountain bikes from GoBike are available to rent for only R50 and e-bikes for R100. Did you know that there is a custom frame builder in Hermanus? Cal-culus Bikes not only designs and builds gorgeous handmade frames in Hermanus, but they have also chosen to work with the noblest materials, namely carbon, bamboo and titanium. Join Hermanus Critical Mass on Friday 19 October at 18:00 in front of the Whale Museum to join the ride. From left are the owners of Embers, Gordon Schoeman and Tam Yeatman with the owners of Post, Carel Kuschke and Leoni Aucamp.

PHOTO: Taylum Meyer

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17 October 2018

S Herholdt - four generations Whale Coast Mall Theatre – next movie in the making

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n a world where only 30% of familyowned businesses survive the transition from first to second generation and just 12% make it to the third generation, SJ Herholdt is a global rarity, a business that is already preparing for the fourth generation of family members to take over, a feat that only 3-5% of companies manage to achieve.

Stephen Herholdt, of SJ Herholdt in the Hermanus industrial area, is a member of this exclusive club, a thirdgeneration Herholdt who has successfully led the local business since 1998, after the Group acquired Top Carpets in 1997.

The secret, Herholdt says, is simple. He followed his father’s advice – provide good service, know your product, never bullsh*t and never promise what you can’t deliver. “I just want to do an honest day’s work,” says Herholdt.

Herholdt says that he learnt so much from his father. “We talked business all the time. He was so successful.

He didn’t do business like his father.

He was always saying you must change.”

Considering that the Herholdt Group first started as a Middelburg hairdressing salon in 1930, it is clear that the family has always believed in change.

From cutting hair to retailing, the Group’s product range has changed constantly.

Even in Hermanus, SJ Herholdt’s range has evolved. Though the Group first started with carpets followed by beds, Herholdt is now well known for their range of ovens and fridges. But actually, says Herholdt, washing machines and dishwashers are their biggest selling items.

Twenty years later and Herholdt is already planning for his son, SJ, to come and join him. Currently in Grade 12 at Hermanus High School and recently elected Head Boy, Herholdt is expecting his son to go and study at the University of Stellenbosch and then “take the business to the next level”.

Pieter, Herholdt’s nephew, joined the business in the Eastern Cape in 2009, so the fourth generation is already starting to make their mark.

While SJ Herholdt has a Facebook presence and the team are working on updating their website, modernising their logo and establishing an online selling platform, Herholdt expects digital marketing to increasingly play an important part in their future.

“Young people are not as loyal so it is important to be on electronic media.

They search for the best price,” says Herholdt.

In general, Herholdt says that customers’ expectations have changed especially when it comes to servicing and repairs. This can be a real challenge during the traditional Christmas month-long trade holidays says Herholdt, who has experienced more than his fair share of desperate phone calls from customers with broken freezers full of treats and braai meat. “We help out as much as we can,” adding that it is not uncommon for them to loan a replacement until the repairman can sort out the problem.

- Raphael da Silva

showing is success

Ten months and nearly 65 000 tickets later, the Whale Coast Mall Theatre has exceeded expectations and vindicated the decision by mall developer Dorpstraat to press ahead with opening a cinema without the backing of one of the two major companies.

“Just having one full-size cinema and one multi-use room as well as feet from the mall have been the reasons for the success,” says Peter Kunz, wellknown owner of Soul Cafe, whose consultancy company is currently managing the theatre.

Ironically, being privately-owned and not part of either Nu Metro or Ster Kinekor has turned into a blessing as it gives the theatre much more flexibility. But plenty of challenges still exist.

“Making the theatre work: that’s the dream,” he says. Kunz envisions a future where movies are just a part of the offering, saying that he would like to present more community and corporate events as well as live entertainment. “I’d love to host a pantomime for example or a Rocky Horror Picture Show.

“It’s how one packages the theatre. It’s how the community talks to us. I want to spread the love,” explained Kunz who invites members of the Hermanus community to get hold of him with their ideas.

“Right now, between 60-70% of our customers are retirees and the rest are kids with their mothers,” said Kunz who is still trying to fully understand why young professionals and millennials are not regulars. Online bookings are now available on the website and Kunz encourages customers to “let us know what movies they want to see.”

Two upcoming movies that Kunz says his customers are requesting are A Star Is Born and Bohemian Rhapsody.

A Star is Born is the fourth remake of the 1937 original and is a musical romantic drama starring, among others, Bradley Cooper, Lady Gaga, and Sam Elliott. The story follows a hard-drinking musician who discovers and falls in love with a young singer.

Bohemian Rhapsody is the biopic about the British rock band Queen, focusing on lead singer Freddie Mercury's life and leading up to Queen's Live Aid performance at Wembley Stadium in 1985.

Early this year, Sterling EQ, an all-woman Classical crossover group from South Africa, played at the theatre and Kunz will be inviting them back next year. Prime Circle have been booked for December.

For those who have yet to visit, the Whale Coast Theatre boasts two modern cinemas. Cinema 1 (Premier Theatre) is a traditional-style cinema with 179 seats that has been designed to also be a venue for live entertainment. It includes backstage facilities for performers.

Cinema 2 (Beanbag Theatre) has 30 extra-large, super-snug beanbags for younger moviegoers, mostly screens child-appropriate movies and can be hired out for kiddies’ parties as well.

The S Heholdt team from left are Le Roy Robertson, Nadine Breedt, Su-Retha Aucamp, Stephan Herholdt and Gustav Louw.

Enquiries regarding venue hire or group bookings can be sent to manager@whalecoasttheatre.co.za – Raphael da Silva

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17 October 2018

U3A – A pathway to life-long learning meet more informally, specialising in specific areas of interest, from art and music appreciation, to economics, current affairs, and novels from particular historical periods.

Elaine Davie

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lthough it has existed in Hermanus for 15 years, many people still ask: What is it, this U3A? It sounds like a spacecraft, or maybe a chemical compound; could it be some sort of secret society, or perhaps a warning against ultra-violet exposure? The acronym appears to cause a degree of confusion and even suspicion among certain Hermanus residents.

But no, U3A is none of these things: it stands for the University of the Third Age, and it offers people over the age of 50 the opportunity to go on exploring our vast universe of knowledge and ideas and, indeed, to share their own life and intellectual journey with one another. But more than that, it offers an important opportunity, especially for older people who live alone, to socialise with others of similar interests and to feel that their lives still have purpose and meaning.

Interestingly, the movement owes its origins to the student uprisings in France in 1968 when the universities sought to establish alternative centres of learning, off campus, but still attached to the university. In that country this remains its position to this day, functioning as an adult education arm of universities.

The concept travelled to Britain in the 1970s and this is where it was given the name it carries today and where it was separated from direct university control, operating instead as an independent entity. From the UK it was exported to the former colonies and to the rest of Europe; there are now literally tens of thousands of members of U3A around the world.

In the 1990s Sylvia Shrire of UCT introduced the movement to Cape Town and it caught on instantly. The

“We never turn anyone away from our courses,” emphasises Robin.

“There are often up to 100 participants, some of whom may not be members and may, indeed, not even fall into the designated age-group.

As long as they are interested in the topic and able to pay the nominal fee, they are welcome.”

Dr Robin Lee and Barbara Pretorius with wildlife photographers, Patrick and Beverly Pickford (on the left) who were U3A Overberg’s guest speakers last week. Their presentation on their latest book, Wild Land, drew a large audience to the Municipal Auditorium, which was filled to capacity on Thursday evening.

PHOTO: Hedda Mittner

original branch which still meets at the Baxter Theatre now has over 2 000 members and it in turn has spawned four other branches in the Cape Peninsula.

“

We are close to centres of learning in Cape Town and Stellenbosch, with a wide array of outstanding speakers to draw on

”

Like a virus, the movement spread to West and South Coast towns in the province and in due course, to other regions of South Africa. Today there are 26 branches, with a total of roughly 8 000 members.

The U3A Overberg branch was established in Hermanus in 2003 with 50 members, and over the past 15 years has grown to 620.

“Hermanus was the ideal place to establish a U3A branch,” says Dr Robin Lee, one of the founder members and currently Vice-Chair.

“Firstly, it has a large number of retired residents and secondly, so many of them are former academics, educationists or professionals of one kind or another, a lot of them widelytravelled. Not only were they keen to keep their minds stimulated, but they themselves had much to offer.

The other advantage was, of course, that we are very close to centres of learning in Cape Town and Stellenbosch, with a wide array of outstanding speakers to draw on across a vast spectrum of subjects.”

Each branch is autonomous and free to organise its programme as it wishes, but in Hermanus, the decision was taken to keep it relatively formal. Most courses are divided into a maximum of four weekly, hour-long lectures and usually three lectures take place each week, except during holiday periods.

In addition, 10 smaller home groups

An annual theme which applies to all branches of U3A around the world is usually followed. This year, for example, it is ‘Culture and Cultural Studies’ and next year will be ‘Carbon’. In a country as diverse as South Africa, made up of so many cultural streams, the 2018 theme offers endless opportunities for exciting topics. A particularly interesting one was entitled What do archaeologists think they know about the Khoi and San People? The presentation was given by Professor Partington, and included 15 members of the Khoi community in Hawston, led by their headman.

Barbara Pretorius, a member since 2008, says that she also enjoys the commemoration of Global Anniversaries. “I loved Women in Science for example,” she says, “commemorating the life of Marie Curie. And then there was The Discovery and History of Diamonds in South Africa. This year was also the 100th anniversary of the dreadful Spanish Flu epidemic, which took so many lives.” Still to come are lectures to memorialise the deaths of Pablo Picasso and film-maker Ingmar Bergman; as well as the birth of composer Leonard Bernstein.

Recently, Barbara also began organising Afrikaans speakers on a variety of topics, a first for Hermanus.

“We’ve had some wonderful poets amongst them, but sadly, Hermanus residents don’t seem very keen on poetry,” she laments with a wry smile.

“One lecture that everyone did find fascinating, though, was given in Afrikaans by Professor Andre de Villiers on Bendor Grosvenor, Second Duke of Westminster and his legacy in South Africa!”

Another enthusiastic local member is Dr Neelia Louw who remembers that in the days before the arrival of U3A in Hermanus, people used to travel over the mountain to attend the UCT Summer School, but this was sometimes difficult for the elderly.

“There is a very deep longing,” she remarks “for older people to experience meaning in their lives at a higher level than merely living life dayby-day, often in isolation. And they find that in U3A. I am always struck by the lively response lecturers receive from the audience. The standard is incredibly high, both in the way the branch is run but also in the calibre and variety of the presenters we regularly enjoy. And the thing is, people talk to one another – so important for people who live on their own.”

The biggest challenge for the U3A Overberg is to find a way to incorporate representation from all the communities of the region. This, they are convinced, is absolutely crucial in terms of building a more inclusive and engaged society. Despite a number of stumbling blocks, like transport, venue and course times, they are determined to find a way to make this happen. Without it, the Hermanus branch will remain somewhat inward-looking, instead of opening itself up to the amazingly rich cross-cultural heritage with which we are blessed in this part of the world.

For more information, contact Dr Robin Lee on robinlee@hermanus.co.za or Letitia Snyman (Chair) on letitia01@telkomsa.net

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17 October 2018

Go on an eco-adventure after dark

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n some days, at dusk, if you are very quiet, you can see Cape clawless otters crossing the beach to and from the sea on their evening hunt. Otters live in fresh water bodies near the sea and often take to the waves to catch fish. They need the fresh water to drink and wash the salt off their coats. You can see otters in several spots along the Whale Coast, but most likely at the Onrus River Beach or Mossel River Beach in Hermanus.

Further afield, in the dark of night, Cape Leopards can still be spotted.

These beautiful cats are much smaller than the up-country cousins, no larger than a big dog. Not many people get to see them because they are extremely shy as a result of being hunted to near extermination, and keep mostly to inaccessible places. Fortunately, with the help of “camera traps” we can all share the thrill of seeing such a beautiful cat in the wild. In this case we can become armchair adventurers and visit the Cape Leopard Trust website for photos, videos and stories.

Thankfully, camera traps which are motion-activated only “shoot” an image of the animal as it passes.

There are few things as romantic as the stars overhead on a cloudless night.

Now imagine the stars above and flashing lights all around, dancing just above the ground. That’s the excitement of going out, by torchlight, to see the annual firefly spectacle. You would expect children to love it, but in fact adults are even more entranced.

You can share this starry, starry night adventure with Whale Coast Conservation.

As always, their experiences in nature are enriched with information about the wildlife. For example, what are fireflies and how are they different from glow-worms? How long do they live and why do they flash just for a few weeks each year? If you would like to join this adventure, please book by emailing anina.wcc@gmail.com as numbers are limited. See them while you can. With increasing use of

pesticides both in agriculture and private gardens, firefly numbers are dwindling. We will advise you of the date and time of the adventure once we know that the fireflies can be seen in numbers. Adults R120 and children R60 – all proceeds go to environmental education.

MY NEWS Environment THE

Since February this year, Whale Coast Conservation has been coordinating a science project to find out whether chameleons can be successfully relocated. With the blessing of CapeNature, the chameleon volunteers caught and photographed 120 ‘little dragons’ in a location that was about to be developed for housing. They were relocated to a safer home.

PHOTO: Peter Chadwick

PHOTOS: Marion Zweegers

The burning question is how successful the relocation has been. To find out, the intrepid chameleon-spotters have gone out on a regular basis over 7 months to find them again and photograph them to compare these photos with the original released animals.

After a year there should be a good indication of their survival rate compared to the natural attrition of chameleons. And yes, each chameleon has a unique colour pattern that can be used to identify them.

Did you know that the best time to spot chameleons is after dark? Join Whale Coast Conservation on another citizen science project where your eagle eyes can contribute to our knowledge of the numbers of Cape Dwarf Chameleon in Fernkloof. There has never been a formal count of chameleons in Fernkloof. Wouldn’t it be fun to creep through the fynbos, torch in hand, to spot them? Why is it easier to see them at night and why do they seem to like thatching reed that doesn’t attract insect pollinators for them to eat?

These, and many more questions will be answered when you join the “hunt”.

If you would like to be a citizen scientist and contribute to our knowledge of our local chameleons, contact sheraine.wcc@gmail.com – Anina Lee

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17 October 2018

Living sculptures in the land of Lilliput Veld fig

Elaine Davie

W

hat is it about human beings that they are fascinated by small objects, even going as far as miniaturising elements of nature? And why is it that oriental cultures seem to be particularly skilled at creating minireplicas of this kind – one thinks of the beautifully carved little netsuke and of course the art of Bonsai, the cultivation and sculpting of miniature trees.

Although the word Bonsai is Japanese, this art form owes its origins to China where it was known as ‘pun-sai’ or ‘tray planting’. The little trees were sacred, considered to have mystical powers and exchanged as gifts amongst the elite. They were celebrated by both poets and painters as a symbol of a cultivated lifestyle.

Juniper cascade

Fritz Joubert of Onrus with one of his magnificent wild olive Bonsais.

Roughly 1 200 years ago, they were introduced to Japan as religious souvenirs. At more or less the same time, Chinese Buddhism and Daoism were transplanted to Japan in the form of Zen Buddhism. Zen monks, finding beauty in austerity, incorporated the little trees into their religion as representatives of the universe. From their Chinese beginnings, the pots or trays in which the trees were planted carried their own religious significance and this tradition was carried forward into the Japanese art of Bonsai.

Bonsai spread to the West in the 19th century and has become a truly worldwide phenomenon with an estimated 1 000 clubs operating in over 100 countries and membership in the region of 100 000. Over a thousand books have been written about Bonsai in many different languages and a proliferation of blogs, websites and social media platforms are to be found on-line.

Next year South Africa will be celebrating the 80th anniversary of the introduction of the art of Bonsai to this country. Becky Lucas is considered to have been the mother of Bonsai in South Africa and her entire collection of trees has been preserved in the University of Stellenbosch’s SA Bonsai Heritage Collection.

Two passionate Bonsai artists living in the Overstrand are Kleinmond’s Jannie Hougaard, the current Chairman of the Boland Bonsai Association who has been an active collector for the past 40 years, and Fritz Joubert of Onrus who for many years helped to care for the trees in the Stellenbosch collection and has been a Bonsai artist for the past 25 years. Each of them has in the region of 50 – 60 trees, most of them cultivated from scratch, either from root stock, slips or seeds.

Given the opportunity, the men will tell you the life histories of each of their trees: this one was dug out when the land was cleared for the Coega

Japanese maple Jannie Hougaard of Kleinmond with one of the oldest trees in his collection, a twostem cork bark elm.

Industrial complex near Port Elizabeth, that one in the Karoo, another created from the aerial root of a wild fig tree in Limpopo. These little trees are like family members, and just as demanding. Because, especially in the summer, they need to be watered every day, Fritz says he can never go away, even for a long weekend, as he can’t trust anyone to look after them properly.

and the branches, snipping here, wiring there, fertilising and repotting the trees every couple of years so that they do not become rootbound. When you acquire a Bonsai, it is a life-long commitment, bearing in mind that, given the right conditions and care, they could outlive you; some have been known to live several hundred years!

As Jannie comments: “These are living sculptures; while they are alive, they never stop growing, changing, needing care. From this point of view, it is often better to have a collection of them, rather than just one or two.

One might forget to feed or water a couple, but you are less likely to neglect a garden-full.” One thing they both point out is that Bonsai should not be kept indoors. After all, they are trees; they need the sun, the wind, the rain that larger trees require, as long as they are protected from extreme weather. Hail can devastate a little Bonsai, as can strong wind.

There are five basic Japanese styles which Bonsai growers the world over are required to follow: formal upright, informal upright, cascade, literati (the most artistic form) and slanting. A certain amount of deviation is allowed within these stylised shapes, including the rootover-rock design and in South Africa, the Pierneef style (portraying the flat-topped trees featured in so many of his paintings). In South Africa, as in many other Western countries, the approach tends to be more relaxed.

However, the key is always the creation of balance in the shape and design of the tree.

Patience is a key characteristic of a Bonsai grower. Nothing happens overnight. Even if you have a vision of the ultimate shape you wish to create in a particular tree, it can sometimes take many years of pruning the roots

The ultimate goal of growing a Bonsai is to create a miniaturised but realistic representation of nature in the form of a tree. Bonsai are not genetically dwarfed plants, in fact, any tree species can be used to grow

one. Depending on the type of tree, they can range in size from just 3 cm up to 203 cm.

Most of the trees in Jannie and Fritz’s collections tend to be indigenous South African species and they are constantly on the look out for potential new Bonsai opportunities or interesting rocks that might be incorporated into landscapes.

Although the original Bonsai form was the single tree, over the years, landscape styles and even forests have been introduced. Because the shapes, sizes and composition of the pots for different types of tree are prescribed, this is often the most expensive aspect of collecting Bonsai.

For both Jannie and Fritz, though, the never-ending challenge is the recreation of a natural form into something new and unique which is a blessing to the eye and at the same time, illuminates the original spirit of the tree. It is a contemplative hobby, one might say, a meditation on the nature of creation and the universe.

For more information Jannie Hougaard can be contacted on 083 6807694 and Fritz Joubert on 083 2867259.

White olive

Veld fig

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17 October 2018

Yoga – the path to inner stillness Tweet Gainsborough-Waring

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any locals still associate Marianne Wiid with Anya’s Mum Café, the quirky little eatery in High Street (now CanD’s Kitchen) where years ago she shared her unique style of deliciously simple and wholesome food with a loyal following.

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MY Health family (BKS Iyengar developed what is referred to as the classical style of yoga), yogis both local and from around the world go there to refresh their knowledge.

So it seems appropriate that my interview with Marianne, now a full-time yoga teacher, starts with a whirlwind tour of her kitchen, with Kombucha brewing in that jar, kefir in another, and a solid selection of tea to choose from. The kettle is soon whistling; I’ve settled on a regenerative tea, and Marianne between classes opts for rooibos (we are in tune – no embellishments, just tea and water).

Marianne’s first encounter with yoga was when she was working at the Stellenbosch market, where she had a stall selling olives and cheese. A local Iyengar yoga teacher, Jackie, would visit the market, making a point of talking to those manning the stalls.

Coming from the classical background, she was quick to draw attention to correct body alignment and posture, saying “Sit up, shoulders back, be aware of your body.”

Up until then Marianne had dabbled in yoga but says it was after Jackie look-

unusual to spend five minutes in a pose, during which time you were led through a total exploration of your feelings, bringing awareness not only to your limbs, muscles and organs but to your thoughts as well.

Marianne describes it as an intense experience because in addition to attending set classes of two hours, you are also expected to do a daily three-hour self-practice. “I was getting up at 5am to fit everything in, as I also attended observation classes, where you could watch the masters at work,” she says.

ed her in the eye and said, “You will be a yoga teacher” that she started looking into yoga more seriously. She found herself intuitively drawn to the precision and thoroughness of the classical Iyengar style.

While in Stellenbosch she started learning the Iyengar way from scratch. It was only when she moved to Hermanus that she finally took the decision to become a teacher. “This was a crazy time in my life, running a

market stall with fresh goods and later Anya’s Mum Cafe, with a daughter in high school and the challenge of qualifying as a teacher.”

Fortunately for her students she brought a dynamic balance into her life and achieved her goal.

Her yoga journey over the past 15 years has included trips to the Iyengar Institute in Pune, India which she affectionately refers to as the mother ship. Home to the Iyengar

“Yogis live in apartments close to the institute, and while it’s very basic, you can buy from the markets and do your own cooking. An entire community has grown up around the institute to supply food and other services to those living in the residences. It’s hard to get away from these juxtapositions in India – the serenity of yoga on one hand, and the bustling community of those making a living on the other.”

A highlight of her stay in Pune was the classes offered by Prashant, son of BKS Iyengar. In his class it was not

Marianne describes it as a total immersion, and something which was a huge challenge to put across to students.

She says although the physical benefits were what attracted most people, there was more. “It’s like peeling away the layers of an onion to include improving your breathing, developing concentration and learning meditation until you finally reach inner stillness,” she says.

Spiritually, yoga encompasses eastern philosophies without being a religion; it merely helps you to enhance your own spirituality.

Marianne is passionate about her teaching, her aim being for people to leave her classes in a better space. The inner calm created through yoga helps you avoid getting caught up in the chaos of everyday living, while giving you more focus and energy.

My Yoga Space in Hermanus is Marianne’s home studio, where she offers classes at various levels to those wanting to learn Iyengar yoga.

Contact My Yoga Space – Hermanus on 082 291 9638/ 028 312 3506.

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17 October 2018

Taking leave of school with a big splash!

On Friday 12 October, Hermanus High School held its farewell function for the matrics of 2018. Family members were also invited to experience the learners’ last day of school with them. The morning kicked off with assembly in the hall, where a prize giving was held to reward the matrics for their hard work during the year. Speeches were given by the Head Boy and Girl for 2019 (SJ Herholdt and Mari Carstens) as well the current Head Boy and Girl (J’hanco Botha and Zulene van Niekerk). Principal Greg Hassenkamp then wished the matrics good luck for their final exams. The assembly drew to a close with an emotional slide show of the current matrics before they took to the stage to sing their school song for what will probably be the last time. After receiving their alumni ties and scarves, the matrics left the hall and followed the school’s tradition by ringing the bell. From there they split into separate groups and went to The Marine Pool and Kammabaai to partake in the school’s other tradition – jumping into the sea in their school uniforms.

This group of matrics are ecstatic to be wearing their school uniform for the last time. They are holding their alumni ties (boys) and scarves (girls) and a few are holding certificates they received during the prize giving at their final assembly.

PHOTO: Carina van der Merwe

Robyn Marais (left), Chanté Okkers (second from left) and Jadee Kinnear (right) jump again with their friend Amber Isaacs (second from right) who missed their first jump together.

PHOTOS: Taylum Meyer

The matrics each received hand-made boutonnières which were attached to the collars of their blazers. Yellow flowers are traditionally used and they are made by the Grade 11s. Yellow in the floral world symbolises friendship, success and pride.

PHOTO: Carina van der Merwe

Tayla Gordon (First Aid) and her boyfriend, Rigardt Schulenburg (First Team Rugby) make their way carefully out of the Marine Pool after jumping.

Maxene Valentine, Jana Smuts, Jaiden Dickson, Talitha Strydom, Bianca Kloppers and Anrika Brand make their way out off the school grounds on their last day at Hermanus High before their final exams begin.

PHOTO: Carina van der Merwe

A group of matrics are ecstatic after finishing their last day of school.

Jaiden Dickson (First Team Netball, back) and Zulene van Niekerk (First Team Netball Captain and Head Girl, front) splash with their friends in the water.

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17 October 2018

MY Home

HARCOURTS BELIEVES IN HAVING FUN Harcourts Hermanus has shown tremendous growth since setting foot in the Overstrand in August last year. They opened a second office in Kleinmond in October last year, and their third office, located in a traditional, 150-year-old fisherman’s cottage in the Main Road of Hermanus that has been beautifully renovated, will have its official opening at the end of this month. Principal Jana Smith, who hails from Louis Trichardt, started with a small team at their Onrus office that has grown to 26 property professionals in only one year. They have also expanded their area to include not only Onrus and Vermont, but the whole Overstrand region from Kleinmond to Voelklip, and now also Gansbaai. Their phenomenal success can be attributed to the astute leadership and 35 years’ experience of Jana. Add to that commitment and teamwork, the strength of the Harcourts brand, superior technology and proven marketing tools and strategies, and this highly professional team’s mutual passion for property and working with people. For sales and rentals of residential, commercial and industrial properties, visit hermanus.harcourts.co.za or contact 028 316 2980 / 082 895 9034.

The tightly-knit Harcourts Hermanus team celebrated their newly-renovated office in Main Road with a boerewors braai last week. From left are Johnny Lipman, Minet and Igno Viviers, Joubert Swanepoel, Herby Skog, Johan du Preez, Mandi van der Westhuizen, Jeanette Korting, Sandy Swanepoel, Jana Smith, Jaco Kriel and Dennis Smith. The positive energy of this highly professional team will ensure that your property journey is stress-free and rewarding because they all love what they do. At the recent Harcourts Awards ceremony held in Cape Town, Harcourts Hermanus not only walked away with Platinum status for the second quarter (April, May and June 2018) but also placed fourth in the Western Cape and ninth in the country out of 135 Harcourts branches. Igno Viviers, who has been a top achiever since joining Harcourts in 2014, also received Platinum status for commission generated, along with Herby Skog. Two more agents, Surina Koorts and Jeanette Korting, received gold while Charmaine Vogel received silver and Willem van Niekerk bronze status. Among the top non-metro agents, Jeanette also came third in the country.

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17 October 2018

Get ready to bang your drum for Global Challenge

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he Global Challenge 2018, an invitational charity golf tournament for professional women golfers that will once again be hosted in the beautiful town of Hermanus, promises to delight not only golf enthusiasts, but also music lovers.

The golfing action, which will see a team from the Northern Hemisphere compete against a team from the Southern Hemisphere for the magnificent Ralph Walton Trophy, will be preceded by an opening ceremony and concert by well-known South African group Mango Groove on Friday 9 November.

The group wrote, composed and recorded the song BangTheDrum as the official anthem for The Global Challenge. It will serve as a call to action for everyone around the world to get behind the players and make a small difference in someone’s life.

The Global Challenge’s #BangTheDrum – Pledge Campaign is an international fundraising initiative affording everyone the opportunity to make a pledge of their own choice. Every pledge will assist in supporting the selected beneficiaries in their individual pursuit of ensuring sustainable and measurable change going forward.

The charities that will benefit are The Full Tummy Fund, Just Care Hermanus, Overstrand Association for Persons with Disabilities and Learn to Earn. The Full Tummy Fund has been selected as the main beneficiary for this year's The Global Challenge.

Players use their social media platforms during the event and appeal to their global fan base to make a pledge on behalf of the professionals who are dedicating their time to make a

difference.

The event will take place at the beautiful Hermanus Golf Course from 9 – 11 November. In the inaugural event held in February 2017, Captain Nora Angehrn (Switzerland) led Team North to victory. Team South, headed up by Captain Laurette Maritz (South Africa), looks forward to the rematch in November 2018, when they will attempt to bring the trophy home to the Southern Hemisphere.

Two players with disabilities will participate in the event. They are Monique Kalkman, a world champion and Paralympic gold medallist in wheelchair tennis, from the Netherlands, and Caroline Larsson, coach and ex-golf pro, from Sweden.

The event kicks off with the Monique Kalkman Ambassadors Challenge, Mango Groove concert and opening ceremony at Hermanus High School on Friday 9 November. Bring your picnic baskets and enjoy Mango Groove under the stars at the Hermanus High School grounds.

Between all the fun and festivities there will no doubt be fierce competition between the two teams. Round 1 of the competition will take place on Saturday 10 November while round 2 will be played on Sunday 11 November.

Be the change you want to see and make a #BangTheDrum–pledge today!

Every pledge will stand a chance to win great prizes. The lucky draw will take place during the event and winners will be announced on the website and social media.

For more information, visit www.theglobalchallenge.co.za

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17 October 2018

Norman Hough shines at World Masters Athletics

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ermanus resident Norman Hough recently achieved 5th place in the Throw Pentathlon (age group 70-75) at the World Masters Athletics Championships in Malaga, Spain. The Throw Pentathlon differs from the Pentathlon competed for at the Olympics in that there are no track events, only field disciplines. The Throw Pentathlon consists of the Discus, Javelin, Shot Putt, Hammer Throw and Weight Throw. There were 38 contestants in Norman’s age group, representing many countries who participated at the World Masters.

Norman Hough only took up athletics in 1994 at the age of 47. Before this, it was rugby at Bellville Club, a sport that he only stopped playing at the age of 53!

He has won South African National Colours and is the Western Province and South African Champion in the 70 age group in the Throw Pentathlon. He has competed all over the World in Masters Athletics and has 4th place finishes in his age group in the World Masters Decathlon Championships. He has been competing in these events every second year, since 1995.

When asked what drives him to achieve these accolades, he replies “If anybody can do it, so can I.” He also attributes his success to his strong religious beliefs.

Norman qualified as a mechanical engineer but decided to enter the

All 14 teams entered into this years’ Build It Business League will be vying for the ultimate prize. Last season’s competition consisted of two leagues (open and over 35) as opposed to the current one league format.

Offside Tony O’Hagan

The league commenced on Monday 8 October and will finish at the end of March 2019. Fixtures are decided by each team bowling eight overs. Games are played from Monday to Thursday and the starting time is 17:20. The Roaring 40s will be defending their title.

teaching profession and taught mathematics at the Bellville Technical High School. After a long stint at Bellville he decided to venture abroad. He obtained a teaching post at a Montessori private school outside Atlanta in the USA. He taught there for 17 years and during this time also represented America at World Masters Athletics.

The Hermanus Cricket Club provides a welcoming atmosphere for spectators with snacks and beverages on offer.

The competing teams, with some comments from the author of this article, include: Build It Bashers: “Will try to bash it over the pickets.”

Premier Shutters: “No shutting up shop here.”

Hermanus Oldies: “Beware! Experience counts.”

Klipdrifters: “Klippies and Coke for the winners.”

Underdogs: “These pets could come out on top.”

Table Tigers: “Watch these cats before dinner is on the table.”

Ranked Outsiders: “Always a good bet.”

Van Blommenstein: “Could butcher the opposition.”

Quantum: “It’s a matter of how many runs and wickets.”

Sandveld: “Will have to adapt to grasveld.”

Mik en Moer: “Second part of this label could cause havoc.”

Roaring 40s: “Will definitely make waves.”

Top Plan: “Good idea when setting the field.”

Outcasts: “Will remain ‘in’ when batting.”

Today, he trains three days a week at the Hermanus High School and assists with coaching in the discus discipline at the school. Norman is supremely fit and continues his passion for athletics, particularly field events.

He also ascribes his longevity in athletics to his philosophy: “You do better when you are relaxed and enjoying it.”

Norman also assists his son, owner of the construction business, Topplan.

Norman is the father of four children and he has eight grandchildren and one great-grandchild. His wife, Hanlie, was for many years a teacher at Hermanus Primary School. He enjoys having the family around him but the lure of visiting other coun-

Build It Business League kicks off

Norman Hough and his wife Hanlie. tries and following his passion for Masters Athletics, will surely see him on foreign soil again soon.

Well done to Norman for showing us that age is not a deterrent to achieving International sporting success.

Good luck to all the above teams in this popular Build It Business League. Hoping for runs and wickets galore!

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17 October 2018

New ladies’ committee elected for Golf Club

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reetings once more from a busier Hermanus Golf Club. We are already rushing through October and season is nearly upon us. At this time of the year we are going through our bi-annual course maintenance procedures which mainly entails hollowtining the greens and fairways.

This practice involves making small holes in the greens and filling them with sand. This actually preserves the greens’ longevity and improves many aspects such as drainage and putting surface, although for a few weeks it’s not ideal to play on.

Hermanus ‘Ryder Cup’ a big success Recently, a group of members who regularly play together held their own version of the world-renowned Ryder Cup. The two groups of 6 players – ‘The Optimists’ from South Africa and ‘The Colonialists’ from Britain and Zimbabwe – had a great day. Although it was a game, the Optimists eventually won 5.5 to 6.5. The sledging was part and parcel of the banter and the guys celebrated late into the evening.

Three generations playing together Now here’s a feel-good story from wellknown senior member Ian Pansegrouw.

Recently he, his son, Gabriel and his grandson Ian played together. That might not sound spectacular but there are not many families that can boast three generations playing together. Well done, guys and thanks for sharing!

New Ladies’ Committee Our golf club is owned by our members and operated by a committee elected from that membership. It’s an old method of running a group of people but it works. Our AGMs are held each October, and last week the ladies’ section elected their new office bearers.

Congratulations to well-known lady members Lynne Behagg who became Lady Captain and Sue Buckmaster who is her ViceCaptain. Good luck, ladies, and have a ball!

Until next week, have a great one and don’t forget, keep calm and go golfing!

The Putting Pirate

Scores at a glance

Julian Shaw

SATURDAY ALL TOGETHER 6 OCTOBER Alliance Bogey Plus 135 players Winners: South course - Cheryl Richardson, Pat van Renen, Sue Atkinson and Moira Stadler +18 North course - Andrew Philip, Philip Munro, Don Munro and Brandon Shaw +14 C/I East course - Richard and Louise Stuart, and Peter and Gill Gallo +20

Senior member Ian Pansegrouw (centre) with his son, Gabriel and his grandson, Ian.

Newly-elected Lady Captain Lynne Behagg.

SUNDAY MIXED 7 OCTOBER Mixed Alliance Stableford 59 players Winners: Peter and Terri Sulley with Alison and David Buckmaster 81 C/I Runners-up: Peter and Cheryl Buckmaster with John and Pauline Metcalf 81 C/O TUESDAY LADIES’ 9 OCTOBER Captains Day, Betterball Stableford 36 players Winners: Pippa Adams and Brigid Bergen 44 Runners-up: Nokkie Benade and Wena Loubser 42

Ryder cup winners are from left Harold Barker, Dave Bunn, Tony Behagg, Richard Franck, Les Adams, Rob George, Rob Gillespie, Baldy Baldwin, Bill McGeachy. In front are Butch Zeederburg and David Boers. Absent Bryan Robertson.

WEDNESDAY MEN’S 10 OCTOBER Betterball Stableford 108 players Winners: Dave Shutte and Dave Durham 46 C/I Runners-up: Peter Cawdry and Ian McAdam 46 C/O Ball pool pays to 44 Best gross: Tyron Davidowitz 71 from the yellows.

4 two clubs

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17 October 2018

MY School

The new matric council for 2019 was officially announced last week after a complex process which involved staff and students alike. At the back, from left are Mikayla Martinengo, Nicola Streicher, Nanje Naudé, Jannika van Niekerk, Elana Coetzee, Bernard Steyl, Olivia Möller, Alewyn Steyl, Daeun Kim, Leandri Bezuidenhout, Grace Williams, Yadine de Kock, and Hlomela Ngokro. In front are Ruben Jordaan, Brorn Govender, Liam Trevorrow, Coenrad van der Stoep, Etienne Prak (Vice-Head Boy), SJ Herholdt (Head Boy), Mari Carstens (Head Girl), Holly Prior (Vice-Head Girl), Kyle Scorgie, Luncendo Sandile, Wenene Mpakama and Rico Roos. Absent: Odi Chadinha and Kiah Saaiman.

PHOTO: Taylum Meyer

Friday 12 October was the last school day for the matrics of Hermanus High School. The farewell function kicked off with a prize-giving ceremony in the hall. Among the top achievers were, from left: Simone du Randt who won the VLV Prize for character, Michelle Kleynhans who won the BK Schreuder prize for the most versatile Grade 12 learner, Izané Oeleofsen who won first place on the academic merit list and Navan Olivier who won the Roger Bushell prize for character. See page 19 for more pictures of the matrics’ last day.

Generation Schools Hermanus was this year's winner out of 628 schools and 8 252 students across South Africa in the Allan Gray Entrepreneurship Challenge (AGEC). Launched in 2017, this six-week competition sees schools in South Africa compete against one another through a series of challenges online. These challenges require students to apply new knowledge or concepts in real-world situations. The challenges are then marked by other students, moderated by teachers and uploaded to a scoring system. The points earned by the students were uploaded online onto live score boards that indicated the position of the students, their class and their school in comparison to other schools.

The best submissions each week were awarded spot prizes.

Above are Generation Schools Hermanus’s top students in the AGEC with their business teacher, Falcon Sauvage. From left are Kai van der Riet (third in Generation Hermanus), Eden Weston (first in Generation Hermanus), Josh Davis (second in Generation Hermanus) and Falcon with the AGEC Trophy. Close on thirty business students from Generation Schools Hermanus took part in the Challenge.

PHOTO: Taylum Meyer