The Village news 19 June - 25 June by The Village NEWS

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19 - 25 June 2018

Mayoral Entrepreneurial Winner

Cape Whale Coast

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Fight against crime heats up De Waal Steyn

o effectively combat crime, communities need to work together, not only with each other and law enforcement agencies but also internally. After weeks of protests and violence in our area, everyone is upset with everyone else and this has led to a situation where crime and criminality cannot be effectively managed,” says Gerrit Swanepoel, Secretary of Hermanus Community Police Forum (CPF). According to Swanepoel, a student of criminology and lecturer by trade, what is one person’s crime is another person’s protest and because the different communities do not have a full understanding of each other’s struggles, fears and aspirations it leads to a situation where enemies are soon born. Following several months of unrest where roads were blocked, businesses vandalised and clashes between the police and protesters at times reached boiling point, many residents have questioned the tactics of the SAPS of not arresting those who are guilty of public disorder or other criminal acts.

Bouchard Finlayson's vineyards treated visitors to the farm to a beautiful view during the FynArts Festival last week. The winery’s cellar housed the artworks of the finalists of the annual Tollman Bouchard Finlayson Art Award competition during the festival. PHOTO: Taylum Meyer, Titanium Photography

SAPS Cluster Commander, Donovan Heilbron says the role of the police during riots is to contain the situation and prevent it from spilling over into other areas or becoming so tense as to put people’s lives in danger.

“We observe what is happening at every protest and we try and keep the people as calm as possible. We do take pictures and videos that can later be used as evidence against those who commit crimes and to arrest certain individuals. “We do not, however, use strong-arm tactics to intimidate strikers or to arrest large groups of people. It is important to know that in most instances law enforcement officials are seriously outnumbered and should the situation become uncontrollable we will be overrun and unable to stop an angry crowd from wanton destruction,” says Heilbron. According to him all cases opened during the riots are being investigated. “There have been several cases of intimidation opened by both individuals and businesses, and investigations are ongoing. In some instances, the video material and photographs we have are being used to build cases and those dockets will be handed over for prosecution,” he adds. Due to the lack of effective policing some communities have taken to combatting crime on their own. Many suburbs in all our towns have active and dedicated neighbourhood watch systems that collaborate with law enforcement agencies and private security companies to assist in fighting crime. Continues on P 3

19 - 25 June 2018

OPINION NEWS Matters THE

E WS

The Team

6 Royal Street, Hermanus

028 312 2234

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

Consumers are better off than they think Unrest, housing, landgrabs, violence, the state of the economy and criminality have been hot topics for discussion for some time now. Added into the mix the prospect of a winter filled with loadshedding does not make for good news at dinner table discussions. But despite all of this, there is still some good news to be had. According to a FynArts talk by well-known economist Mike Schussler, South Africa is a country renewed with hope but not yet reformed. According to him the economic data released during the last few weeks might not be very positive but there is light at the end of the tunnel. Lower than expected economic growth combined with muted retail figures have put the Rand and commodity prices under pressure. But, he says, lower currencies protect investors

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

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

Office Administrator Tania Hamman admin@thevillagenews.co.za

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

Journalist Elaine Davie 084 343 7500

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

from lower commodity prices as they almost cancel each other out. This, combined with South Africans earning more through higher minimum wages and low domestic debt, gives one a sense of hope for the future. As a matter of fact, household debt as a percentage of income has been in its longest decline yet, putting consumers in a stronger position than ever before.

in South Africa own a second property – that is much higher than the American rate of 5%. A total of 70% of residents live in formal housing, with 16% in traditional housing and 14% in informal housing. Of these 85% of people have access to electricity. In total South Africans own 11,2 million vehicles. Shussler says South Africans need to stop fighting about the individual slices of cake of the country’s economy and start working at growing the whole cake. If communities can work together the economy will start showing significant growth within the next few years. This can be attained by focusing on areas of easy growth, such as that offered by tourism.

Furthermore, South Africa boasts the 8th largest pension fund in the world measured in US dollar terms. This means that most South Africans are preparing for retirement, which is a good thing as the national life expectancy increases by one year every four years. On the housing front there is also good news. A total of 55,6% black, 6,8% coloured, 5,1% Asian and 32,5% whites own their own house. This is similar to the ownership rates of both the United Kingdom and Denmark. 22% of blacks

In short, South African consumers are better off than they think. This is the good NEWS – Ed

WHERE TO FIND US The Village NEWS is published every week and the next edition will be available on 26 June. 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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Readers might notice that our Putting Pirate is missing in action this week. That is because the golf course has been very quiet (in fact “washed out”, as Julz put it) due to all the recent rain. While he had nothing to report for this week’s Village NEWS, he did send us a series of exceptional photos taken at Hermanus Golf Club after one of the recent rain storms.

Weather forecast for the next week & De Bos Dam level Tuesday 19 June

Wednesday 20 June

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www.yr.no De Bos Dam Level

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19 - 25 June 2018

Cases being built against criminals From P 1 In the last few weeks Zwelihle in Hermanus has decided to take a serious stand against crime in the neighbourhood. Under the auspices of Zwelihle Renewal (ZR) a strategic plan has been tabled whereby an action programme was launched that will run “until every woman, man and child can walk freely in the streets without the concern of being raped, robbed or killed”. After announcing the plan at a public meeting on 10 June, a group of 500 people took to the streets and torched a house belonging to ANC councillor Connie TafuNwonkwo after residents alleged that drugs were being sold at the property. A traumatised TafuNwonkwo denied all knowledge of any drug dealing. Two cases of arson have been opened, but no arrests have been made. According to ZR leader Gcobani Ndzongana the community is committed to eradicating crime in its entirety in the area. “We have discussed our plan with the SAPS and we will not rest until every criminal has been driven from the suburb. We do not condone vigilantism, but you must understand that crime is a huge problem and the rights and freedom of innocent people are being trampled upon. We will not allow that,” says Ndzongana. According to him ZR has received a clear mandate from the community to continue their fight against crime. “Our plan is simple. We will fist deal with drug dealers and their suppliers. Drugs are the root cause of crime in our community and anyone involved in the selling or distribution thereof needs to be removed and handed over to the police. We will deal harshly with criminals and burn down all their operating places.”

PHOTO: Marthunis Barnard, MyWhaleCoast According to him those community members who commit acts of crime outside the borders of Zwelihle must be apprehended and brought to the community for them to deal with the culprits before handing them over to the police.

Zwelihle initiative become a neighbourhood watch that works in conjunction with the SAPS. We would also like the community of Zwelihle to become active members of the CPF so that they form part of the bigger community fight against crime.”

“This programme will continue until all our residents are safe, day and night. We will not allow crime to steal our future. We are aware that there are those in the white community who are demonising us on social media for our actions. We take note of their displeasure, but we want them to understand that we also know where drugs are being sold in the CBD and we will put an end to that, too,” says Ndzongana.

According to Swanepoel social media plays a significant role in the interactions between communities. “It has the ability to both bond and tear apart communities. In Hermanus it is unfortunate that in most instances it is the latter. Because social media makes it so easy to voice your opinion to a large group of people it provides a platform for those who want to make themselves heard. Unfortunately, most of the reactions are of the kneejerk variety, further stirring anger.

Heilbron says they have met with the ZR leadership and welcome and appreciate their initiative. “We did make it clear that mob justice or vigilantism cannot be allowed, and we will arrest those who make themselves guilty of it. We would much rather see the

“It is a fact that emotional intelligence does not feature prominently on social media. People react to information within seconds without first thinking of the impact that their comments

might have or that it might be discriminatory. My advice to people is to think before they type. It is easy to make a comment, but we must think before we do it. I see so many derogatory comments by people who have impressionable children that see the comments and emulate what their parents say. “We need to start the process of transformation and commitment to end discrimination and crime in our own homes. This must be done by the examples we set for our children and by educating both ourselves and our children on how to become productive members of society. “Combatting crime is not only about giving money or not committing crimes. Its about giving your time, energy and talents to the community and setting an example that others want to follow. Start by joining your neighbourhood watch or attending CPF meetings.”

19 - 25 June 2018

The journey of water from source to tap

ith welcome rain falling over the last week in the Western Cape many residents are keeping an eagle eye on dam levels in the province. According to the South African Weather Service close on 100 mm of rain was measured over the last week in the main catch-ment areas of the Western Cape. This has led to strong inflows of water into all the major dams. On Friday 15 June the dam levels were: Berg River 57,6%, Lower Steenbras 41,6%, Upper Steenbras 74,5%, Theewaterskloof 23,3%, Voëlvlei 25,9% and Wemmershoek 61,7%. The total level of dams stands at 33,7% of capacity compared to 20,9% at the same time last year. When opening taps for freeflowing water in our homes, it’s so easy to forget that long before that water reaches our homes it has travelled a long journey to get there. Before water flows through pipes to reach cities and towns, it starts in nature. The ecosystems that provide this vital resource must be protected and managed sustainably if they are to meet the needs of South Africa’s growing economy.

Recently WWF South Africa launched the Journey of Water project to connect urban water users to their water sources, which are often distant and not given the recognition they deserve from the public. Researchers from WWF and the Council for Scientific and Industrial Research (CSIR) recently mapped out all of South Africa’s water source areas. By modelling information about rainfall and river run-off, the study revealed that only 8% of our land delivers more than 50% of South Africa’s surface water. These water production areas are highrainfall environments that are essentially nature’s water factories which supply water to the majority of the country. In the Western Cape seven water source areas supply the water to the people of our region. They are: Boland Mountains, Groot Winterhoek, Kougaberg, Langeberg Mountains, Outeniqua, Swartberg and Table Mountain. These areas not only supply the catchments and dams downstream, but also provide water to communities in and

DID YOU KNOW? Invasive aliens: Invasive alien trees that have spread through large parts of our country consume more than 7% of South Africa’s available water resources. In some catchments, this can be as high as 20%. Climate change: Climate change is predicted to exacerbate risks associated with water scarcity and quality. Models show that the western parts of the country will receive less rain, whereas the central and eastern areas will receive more variable rainfall with more intense rainfall events. Land degradation: around towns and cities, the farming sector and industries that help drive our economy. Human activities can severely impact on both the quality and quantity of this precious resource that eventually ends up in our taps, and for this reason it is vital for us to conserve not only our freshwater areas, but also the mountain catchments, estuaries and marine environments.

The Boland Mountains feed the following dams: Bot River Vlei, Elandskloof, Wemmershoek, Stettynskloof, Kogelberg, Fortuin, Jonkershoek, Berg River Dam, Theewaterskloof and Steenbras.

Our water sources: The Boland Mountains host the Breede River, the largest river in the Western Cape, and a key resource for economic activities in the region, such as

These dams supply water to: City of Cape Town, Winelands Municipality, Stellenbosch, Worcester, Robertson, Swellendam, Overberg Municipality.

agriculture. The area is also SA's frog hotspot with the most frog species, including mossy, marsh and the micro frog, which is only 1cm long.

Unsustainable land-use practices pose a major threat to ecosystems and the livelihood of local communities. Land use that damages flood plains, river banks, and wetlands reduce the regulating capacity of catchments and increase erosion and sediment loads in rivers as well as the risk of flooding. Table Mountain: Cape Town currently has seven dams in the area supplying water to the Metro. The availability of clean drinking water from Table Mountain is the reason Cape Town was established as a port city and trade route centuries ago, while the river in Platteklip Gorge and springs in Oranjezicht were the first water sources. To find out more about the water source areas in the Western Cape visit: www.journeyofwater.co.za/catchments/westerncape Source: Care for Nature

19 - 25 June 2018

Maestro Richard Cock and his amazing, musical tour Elaine Davie

more energetic and enthusiastic proponent of taking fine music to the people than Richard Cock would be difficult to find. In the spirit of the old touring companies, Richard is a passionate supporter of arts festivals around the country. He believes that there is an enormous hunger for good music in small towns, and at the other end of the scale, city dwellers have a longing for the country lifestyle, which motivates them to travel hundreds of kilometres outside their home territories to visit festivals in some beautiful, rural part of South Africa.

Another of Richard’s very special annual concerts is Baroque in the Bush, which takes place in the Kruger Park at Shingwedzi Camp. It can accommodate only 250 people and is sold out well in advance every year, with audience members streaming down to the Park from Johannesburg and Pretoria for this unique experience.

Richard has just completed yet another series of performances at the FynArts Festival, where, since the beginning, his contribution has been a cornerstone of its success. He believes FynArts is making a name for itself as one of the bestorganised, high-quality festivals in the country. And he should know.

One has this image of the animals – elephants, zebra, vervet monkeys, giraffe and warthog – standing at or leaning over the fence or sitting in the trees and listening with rapt attention to the music. Since Richard loves to interact with his audience, it is intriguing to consider what form this might take.

The mind boggles when he rattles off the names of other festivals and events at which he performs. In this part of the world alone, he regularly appears at the Silver Mountain Music Festival at Grootvadersbos in Swellendam, leads a local grass-roots church choir in Heidelberg and gives a Christmas concert at Oude Libertas in Stellenbosch in December every year.

About that: Richard says he loves to build a rapport with the audience. “It’s never just a static performance,” he says. “I get them clapping, singing, participating. We as performers love the energy that creates; in fact, we feed off it. It becomes a dynamic interaction between the musicians, the audience and the music; it’s magic! In a subtle way, I also see myself as an educator – an edutainer, if you like. I love to teach people about what I love; I suppose once a teacher always a teacher,” he laughs.

Each of the concerts he gives is different, depending on the focus of the event and the local choirs he works with, which means that they all have a different flavour and a new energy. There is never any danger of Richard getting bored. For in-

If Richard has one criticism of most of the arts and music festivals at which he performs, it is that they have become unaffordable for much of the local population. He believes very strongly that a certain number of free concerts should be included, such as those at the Grahamstown Festival where performances are given in the Monument foyer for both children and adults.

stance, as he describes it, the Silver Mountain Festival is quite unique: “It’s wonderful, a real country festival, which takes place on a farm, in a barn, and all the local farmers bring their produce along and sell it before and after the concert. It’s a real community event, with a great atmosphere.”

He was, in fact, a prep school teacher for seven years and although he was born in Port

Conductor Richard Cock was back in Hermanus this month to once again lend his special magic to FynArts.

Elizabeth, he lived in the UK for eight years as a church choir conductor, mainly in Chichester. In 1980 he came back to South Africa and joined the SABC where he was asked to re-establish two choirs, which were started by the late Edgar Cree but had subsequently become defunct. One was a symphonic choir consisting of 120 members and the other a 20member chamber choir. He was also organist at St Mary’s Cathedral in downtown Johannesburg, which, even in those days, was a multicultural congregation. He remembers that period as exciting and energising, but not without the challenges of living in the volatile environment of that time.

PHOTO: Johnathan Andrews

Under the influence of Aggrey Klaaste, then editor of The Sowetan, who he feels was ahead of his time with his nation-building project, he became involved in the establishment of the Massed Choirs Festival with the late Prof Alf Khumalo, and the participation of Sibongile Khumalo, Hugh Masekela and other outstanding musicians.

“Music is so important for children,” he adds. “It teaches them discipline, commitment, a whole new attitude to life, in fact. There are still some wonderful school choirs around South Africa, like those at Pretoria Boys’ and Pretoria Girls’ High Schools, but unfortunately, too little attention is given to music in the education system these days. “The government must get involved.” Richard’s excitement steps up a couple of notches. “You must Google the El Sistema Project which was established in the 1970s in Venezuela. Its motto is ‘Music for Social Change’ and it targets the poorest of the poor children in the favellas of the cities and the rural communities. “Every child is taught music and provided with a musical instrument and it’s all been paid for from government oil revenue. The success they have had in turning around the lives of hundreds of thousands of poor children has been phenomenal! That’s the kind of thing we desperately need in South Africa,” he concludes, hitting a high note. And so, as Richard Cock disappears into the sunset to prepare for his next musical gig, we in Hermanus are left with that challenge. What will we have to show him when he returns for FynArts next year?

19 - 25 June 2018

‘Hermanus is dependent on tourism’ How often have we all heard this sentiment expressed by a permanent resident or a ‘swallow’? Events over the past few weeks have shown us how true this is, writes DR ROBIN LEE of the Hermanus History Society.

he evidence is cancelled bookings and postponed holidays. Tourism lesson Number 1: While the provision of basic services, access to facilities and a sense of personal safety may never be consciously articulated by the tourist, take away any of these and the tourist bonanza comes to an abrupt halt. But first a definition, so we know what we are speaking about: Tourism comprises the activities of persons travelling to and staying in places outside their usual environment for leisure, business and other purposes for greater or lesser periods of time, but for not more than one consecutive year.

spend a rural holiday. The Gearings, for instance, of Gearing’s Point, rented a holiday cottage every year from 1900 to 1912, when Sydney Gearing retired and bought the holiday cottage. Known as The Anchorage it exists still in Marine Drive next to the Harbour House Hotel.

Families bathing at Voëlklip beach in the 1930s. PHOTOS: Old Harbour Museum

We also need to consider terminology. No one in Hermanus during the 19th and first half of the 20th century had ever heard of ‘tourists’. Those visiting the town ‘for leisure, business and other purposes’, were either ‘visitors’ or ‘guests’. Two things happened in 1896 that started the history of tourism in our town. Walter MacFarlane opened the Victoria Hotel on the north-east corner of Main and Harbour Roads, mainly to accommodate commercial business travellers proceeding to Stanford, Gansbaai and beyond. And Dr Joshua Hoffman opened a medical facility known as the Sanatorium, to catch the first waves of what we would now call ‘medical’ or ‘wellness’ tourism. This is the earliest example of ‘international tourism’ we have. The word spread and soon other visitors were coming to Hermanus, seeing it as a quaint little fishing village and place to

The Gearing family’s holiday home, The Anchorage, in the 1930s.

Meester Paterson in the 1960s.

A young Joey Luyt in the 1920s.

Princess Alice first visited Hermanus in 1924.

After World War I a prominent figure in Hermanus history became involved in tourism. W H (Meester) Paterson, school teacher, school principal, first Town Clerk and eventually Mayor, was an amateur but very knowledgeable botanist. He started conducting walks in the areas covered in ‘wild flowers’ around the town. (The term ‘fynbos’ had not yet come into use.) He was motivated by the beauty of the flowers, but also by a very Victorian impulse to accumulate knowledge and to convey this to others. His first audiences were children in the Klipskool. But soon he was leading small groups of residents and visitors on botanising walks. In her memoirs, Joey Luyt, wife of the owner of The Marine Hotel, mentions her interest in ‘wildflower’ conservation several times and the deliberate promotion of fynbos as a reason to visit Hermanus took off in the early 1920s. It all began when the Governor General, the Earl of Athlone visited Hermanus in 1924, with his wife, Princess Alice: Princess Alice was a keen mountain climber, and, at her request, I arranged an outing for her the next day. I asked ‘Meester’ Paterson, who knew our mountains very well, to accompany her. They went by car to Hemel-en-Aarde and climbed up the mountain there, descending on the Hermanus side via the Olifants Pad. The enthusiasm shown by Princess Alice persisted. A couple of years later the Athlones were back in Hermanus: In the autumn of 1926 the Earl of Athlone came to Hermanus once more, to open our Wild Flower Show. He was accompanied by Princess Alice, who was very interested in the flowers of the countryside. We can see here another prominent feature of tourism in Hermanus in the early 20th century. Established families and businesspeople actively promoted the town wherever they had influence. Sir William Hoy was a leader in this and used his position as General Manager of South African Railways to spread the word about Hermanus.

Many international visitors to the three top hotels (The Marine, Bay View and Riviera) did the same. P J Luyt of The Marine also instated a series of ‘clubs’ in which guests were enrolled. They met other guests and locals and developed a preference for returning to Hermanus next year. Luyt also secured international press coverage of Bill Sinclair’s worldrecord shark which brought many anglers to the town who were enrolled in the Angling Club. Meanwhile, a silent revolution was taking place in Voëlklip. Homes were being built as ‘second’ or ‘holiday’ homes, at first mostly for families taking regular holidays in Hermanus. Later, these were increasingly rented out to other families and later to members of the public. The holiday home industry grew up, catering to families for whom hotel holidays were too expensive. This group must be regarded as tourists and make up a reliable annual market that exists today. One species created the tourism niche that currently underpins tourism in the town: southern right whales. I cannot find evidence that anyone in the tourism business anticipated this bonanza. After killing of these animals ceased in the late 1970s, no-one could estimate whether the numbers of whales would increase and whether they would re-appear on the ‘Cape Whale Coast’. They have turned up in numbers and revived the ecotourism market dramatically. Of course, they could suddenly go away if tourists pester them. In summary there are the following points to be made: • Organised tourism has been taking place in Hermanus for well over 100 years. • At first it grew by demand as a function of the general development of the Overberg. • By 1920 businesses and individuals started to plan and act strategically to grow specific tourism ‘niches’. • As an ecotourism destination, two aspects underpin the Hermanus tourism market: fynbos and whales. • Popularity as a tourist destination is fragile. Failures in local government service delivery can quickly have a negative effect.

The author welcomes any comments or additional information. He can be contacted at robinlee@hermanus.co.za

19 - 25 June 2018

Youth Day sport scores points against crime

he third annual Zwelihle Against Crime Youth Sports Day held on Saturday 16 June was hailed as a huge success by organisers and participants alike.

Youngsters from all over the Overstrand congregated at the Zwelihle Sports Centre to compete in soccer, boxing and netball. Dressed in their sporting outfits the children and teams gave it their all in the hope of being one of the lucky recipients of a glimmering trophy. The day was organised by Western Cape Police and Zwelihle Renewal. SAPS Overberg Cluster Commander, Brig. Donovan Heilbron said he was very impressed by the attendance and involvement of the community. “It was a most constructive and enjoyable day, and we look forward to working with the community next year to make the event even bigger.” ZR leader Gcobani Ndzongana said he had never seen such a

successful Youth Day celebration. “What we were able to do was to offer the youth a chance to shine. We wanted to break with the normal political rally where politicians come to make promises and then leave. The theme of the day was ‘Youth Against Crime’ and every participant scored against crime. “As a community we are thankful to the SAPS for not only assisting in the event but also being present on the day. They have shown their commitment to our communities and we look forward to a long and prosperous partnership with them. Also, Deputy Mayor Elnora Gillion must be thanked for her involvement and support. She came to the festival as a community leader and not as a politician. This has made her the mother of Zwelihle because we need more role-models and less politics,” said Ndzongana. Before the matches started in all earnest hundreds of children, parents and dignitaries all participated in a mass aerobics class presented by Sxolies Aerobics Club. – De Waal Steyn

PHOTO: De Waal Steyn A proud Gcobani Ndzongana of Zwelihle Renewal with some of the many trophies that were handed out at the Youth Sports Day held in Zwelihle on 16 June as part of the Youth Day celebrations. Soccer and netball teams as well as boxers from all over the Overstrand took part in the festival. Some of the younger children were fascinated by The Village NEWS photographer, Taylum Meyer’s camera equipment (below left).

PHOTO: De Waal Steyn

PHOTO: Taylum Meyer PHOTO: Wilco den Otter

PHOTO: Taylum Meyer

19 - 25 June 2018

THE

NEWS

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

Realism hard to condemn Having read the response of KEA, Hermanus (The Village NEWS 5 - 11 June) to the letter of Realist, Hermanus (The Village NEWS 22 - 28 May) one is once again reminded that, when social/ people matters come into the debate, it is almost impossible to avoid the racism trap. The way I understand Realist’s letter, he is pointing a finger straight, and solely, at Overstrand Municipality! But, bang! – he is doomed, in the strongest words, as a racist when he blames the authority for allowing an uncontrolled influx of disruption. One wonders whether KEA is lucky enough to be unaware that, whatever the cause, the once safe, peaceful and orderly Hermanus and surrounds are currently indeed experiencing an unsavoury influx of: • burglaries, often accom-

panied by violence; • forceful intimidation, preventing citizens from carrying out their responsibilities in earning a living; • arson, destroying hardearned property and disrupting the normal flow of business and daily procedures; • unruly looting under the cover of riots and violent outbreaks; • non-payment for residential and service privileges; • demands for more and better residential and service privileges without payment; • escalating pressure on duty-conscious tax payers; • fear of being attacked and robbed while merely making use of amenities such as coastal pathways; • fear of leaving one’s home and working in one’s own garden.

Now, one may ask, is the above simply a normal trend in urban development? Or is an expression of concern justified? Hats off to Realist for voicing his opinion, in a factuallyfounded, civilised way, about a vivid point of discussion among citizens – a matter that, unfortunately, is so ‘sensitive’ that it is seldom publicly addressed, being well aware that realism in this matter is constantly at the risk of being condemned as racism. P.S. Must just say that KEA’s deliberate dig at Orania does raise the suspicion that he himself is a deeplyrooted racist. But, perhaps, in his mind racism is exclusively a question of colour. Frank, Overstrand

‘Wake up and smell the coffee’ What an excellent riposte from ‘Realist’ to the ranting of KEA. It’s easy to beat the liberal drum and trash the realistic comments of others, labelling them ‘racists’ who don’t belong here. KEA needs to wake up

and smell the coffee, and get a reality check. We need more people who are prepared to say it how it is and risk the vilification from the likes of KEA. Brian Slade

Taxis are bullies on the road It only takes me ten minutes to get to work on a normal day. Today was not one of them… As I reach the Vermont circle my nightmare begins... Taxis speeding around the circle, no indicators on. Stopping without warning, passengers jumping out... speeding off again, without warning. As I reach the Vermont traffic lights, in my rear view mirror I see two taxis speeding up Vermont Avenue to see who makes it to the robot first. Breaks screech behind me, music full blast, edging closer and closer, trying to make me go forward. The traffic lights are red and

the driver of the taxi is getting impatient. The taxi behind decides that seeing noone is turning left, to move into the lane. The lights turn green… as I take the turn right into the R43, the taxi in the left-hand lane turns in front of me. The taxi driver behind me is angry… how could he get in front of me… he flickers his lights to get me to move over. I cannot, I am turning… No problem to him, he overtakes me on the yellow line at one hell of a speed. Just part Berghof, a taxi drops off passengers, drives in the yellow line to get past cars and speeds up to get back into the lane, no indicators. Kidbrooke traffic

lights approaching, I slow down as I anticipate them changing to red. Another taxi behind me… he is not going to stop. He swings past and speeds through the red traffic light, full of passengers. Get to Swartdam Road, no cars approaching, indicator on I turn right. Not again… a taxi turning at the same time from behind me on my lefthand side nearly forcing me off the road. By the time I get to work I feel as if I have just spent the last ten minutes in a tumble drier. I wonder how the passengers in the taxis must feel! Bullied driver

Inconvenient facts of urbanisation It is disappointing that people such as the anonymous “KEA”, in their letter Realist, Hermanus – or Racist, Hermanus? (The Village NEWS, 5 – 11 June) should hurl insults and abuse at anyone of differing opinion instead of contributing suggestions for solutions to urbanisation problems. Urbanisation is a modern global trend involving the movement of rural populations to urban centres, largely by the poor desperately seeking work opportunities to survive, regardless of nationality, race or colour. This is a complex problem and is not solved by suggestions like “everyone has the right to live where they please”. Many do not have the right, for example, to live in Llandudno, simply because they cannot afford the exorbitant property prices and high rates and taxes.

Most urban cities and towns do not have an industrial or such-like tax base, not unlimited natural resources such as land and water to sustain an uncontrolled influx from rural areas. While the national government might finance land purchases, if available, and low-cost housing subsidies, urban municipalities are still burdened with the supply of services, often to people who cannot afford them. These constraints result in frustration and protests and, in some cases, illegal ‘land grabs’. The inevitable result of informal, unserviced land grabs is the development of so-called ‘slum areas’ with inhumane living conditions. In many African and Asian cities, slum-area populations already far exceed the formal urban population. Any solution to urbanisation problems requires all parties to accept the uncomfortable

fact that any form of influx control is linked to the availability of land, water and services, as well as the potential of employment to avoid massive unemployment. National governments therefore must finance new infrastructure and development opportunities in areas that do have the potential of sustainable resources, and encourage investment to create gainful employment. To rely on existing urban municipalities to solve the problems is not a solution. However well intended, finding small parcels of municipal land and supplying minimal services for informal settlements will never match the backlog and ever-increasing wave of urbanisation.

L Weaving Hermanus Heights

‘It’s time to embrace problems with open and receptive minds’ The letter of Realist, Hermanus (12 – 18 June) needs a response – at least to clarify the point of view of a typical `limp-wristed leftist`. The happenings in our town first and foremost need understanding and empathy. It is too easy to label the problem `unfettered squatting’ and to contrast it unfavourably with tax-paying, responsible citizens living in their own `Little Monaco’. If Realist is in my age group (immediate post- World War II baby boomer), or even a child of the sixties and seventies, he had the same privileges I grew up with – relatively good standard of living, acceptable primary and secondary education, a place at a university of choice, many opportunities in the work place – in stark contrast with the parents and grandparents of the protesters. The circumstances that culminate in people becoming squatters are usually as a result of factors beyond their control and whether we are `leftist’ or `conservative’ we should have the humanity to realise that our poverty-stricken

fellow citizens of Hermanus need at least the dignity of not simply being labelled trouble-makers when life has dealt them a difficult hand. There are no easy solutions for these problems that beset our young democracy. The policy of many centuries of placing the homes of the voiceless majority far from the centre of town causes many problems in other South African towns. In Hermanus it is different – the suburb of Zwelihle is in a fairly central position but needs to expand. The backyard squatters are poor people – a conservative, purely capitalist approach of sink or swim will exacerbate an already fraught situation. We need innovative, creative thinking and extensive co-operation to address our problems. I am pleased for Realist that he has an `upstanding West African gentleman’ to illustrate clearly that he is not racist. One wonders when one qualifies for the epithet `upstanding’ – I suspect it involves property in an upmarket estate. One also wonders whether elitism is an attribute that is useful in

the development of our country. One would also question the wisdom of the West African gentleman when he criticises `limp-wristed leftists’ for allowing lawless people to ruin our town. Is limp-wristed not usually used by homophobes to describe the gay community? Is being liberal being equated with an insult from our homophobic past? He states that the lawless people of Hermanus are not intimidated by liberal credentials. Is he suggesting the Marikana or Sharpeville approach to the protesters? Realist of course, as a good conservative, couldn’t agree more. I am afraid that the `Little Monaco’ that Realist claims Hermanus once was will, fortunately, never return. The past of `Little Monaco’ was steeped in racism, elitism and arch conservatism. We live in Africa, and in a very beautiful place in Africa. It is time for us all to embrace the present and solve the problems of the present with open and receptive minds. Proudly liberal Hermanus

19 - 25 June 2018

Is craft art? Well! Call me old-fashioned but when asked to submit work on a circular canvas, 60x60 cm for the Tollman Bouchard Finlayson Art Award (held yearly as part of the Hermanus FynArts Festival,) one could be forgiven for thinking that the winning entry at least would be hangable on a wall. One would be wrong. Entering the atmospheric cellar of this world-famous winery, I wondered briefly if I had wandered into the wrong show (my momentary confusion compounded by a complete and inexplicable lack of signage anywhere in the Hemel-en-Aarde Valley or the estate itself). In his speech at Friday’s exhibition opening and prize-giving, the head judge did bravely admit to a bee in his bonnet about quality crafts; the same bee having apparently stung his cojudges, as neither the first prize nor the

two merit prizes went to paintings and almost a quarter of the exhibits are craft orientated (mosaics, shells, fabrics – even a brass tray infiltrated itself). All of which makes for a most interesting show – but in the time-worn question: Is it Art? What did make me smile happily – all four winners were female! Is this a record and can we look forward to some spluttering protests on the letter page from the opposite sex? In case you were wondering: Yes, I did submit again this year and yes, this time I was rejected. Sour grapes? Whatever. But undaunted, I shall try again next year. So if any kind reader can lend me a knitting pattern for, say, a circular tea cosy, not more than 60 x 60cm in diameter...

Jenny Jackson

The Hospice 600 Club Draw took place on 12 June. The winning numbers, drawn by special guests Lize-Marie Rabie and Taz Kraukamp from Hermanuspietersfontein winery, were: 1st P & J Tyson; 2nd Jo Wilson; and 3rd Ian McIntosh. Anyone can become a winner and support Hospice at the same time by joining the 600 Club. Hospice wishes to thank Hermanuspietersfontein (HPF) for considering them in the work they do for the community. From left are Lynn Sillfant (Don Adams Auditors), Lize-Marie Rabie (HPF); Sr Lynette Gloy (Overstrand Hospice); and Taz Kraukamp (HPF). To join the 600 Club, contact Norma Scott-Tomlin on 028 312 4679.

Sheep-shearers, beware of creating Sheeple Pulling the wool over people’s eyes is not a recent phenomenon, although it has become routine in the White House where they manage to trump up enough wool to make a double-bed blanket every day. Long before these ‘alternative facts’ were accepted as reality by those loyal to The Angry Orange, many other liars, deceivers and fraudsters have hoodwinked their way into history - with mixed results. While scouring The Duck ’n Fiddle’s Explanation of Everything archives, up popped a bloke called Marvin Hewitt, obviously an enterprising chap, skilled in forgery and deception. Whatever profession he chose, he’d read up enough beforehand to at least have a basic grasp of things. This all happened around WW II

Wit’s End Murray Stewart thevillagemuze@gmail.com

in America. Our Marvin quit school at 17 and worked in various factories for about six years, till he saw an advert for a school-teaching post. So he forged a glowing report about himself and got the job. How difficult was that? After one term though, he had greater ambitions. Choosing a name at random from a university staff list, he used it – with another letter of recommendation – to become an aerodynamics engineer in an aircraft factory. All well and good for a while, till the name he had chosen pitched up for a routine safety inspection and he had to skedaddle.

He name-changed again (Julius Ashkin) and moved to Philadelphia College of Pharmacy and Science where he taught physics. Later, at Minnesota’s State Teachers College, he built up quite a reputation, which was unfortunate. The publicity caught the attention of the real Julius Ashkin so once again he had to ‘get out of Dodge’. Over the next few years – sticky fingers in various pies – he successfully became George Hewitt, ‘Former Director: Radio Corporation of America’, Dr Clifford Barry Ph D, and Kenneth Yates Ph D. Once again his obsession for

assuming other people’s names caught him out when the newspaper located the real Kenneth Yates, working for an international oil company. The publicity exposed his web of lies, and he had no choice but to find work outside the universities. The trail goes cold here, so where he ended up is uncertain, but as a 20-year wool-puller, he was a genius.

was shipwrecked off the north-western coast of Oz and was saved by the local tribe. He partook in cannibal feasts, launched fleets of pelicans carrying distress messages in six languages, built a house of pearl shells and rode around on 600 lb turtles, he claimed.

Another such scoundrel was Louis de Rougement, who claimed he spent ‘30 years among the cannibals of Australia’. Scientific societies invited him – for a generous fee – to give lectures on his experiences. Madame Tussaud’s nogal housed a waxwork model of him.

He also recommended the best way to break a fever is to sleep inside the body of a dead buffalo. Personally, I’d rather stay ill a bit longer. Anyway, for a few years he made a pretty packet pulling the wool till his yarns frayed, exposing him as a fraud. Undeterred and unabashed, Louis once again cashed in by coming here to South Africa and giving lectures titled ‘The Greatest Liar on Earth’.

In an 1898 interview with Wild World Magazine he said he

That was a while ago. Recently that title was wrestled away

by the startling achievements of The Angry Orange. Without blushing, he’s managed over 3 000 barefaced lies in 18 months. Amazing. Even more astounding is that nearly half the Americans believe him, so we’d be churlish to deny him the accolades. Oblivious to the truth and ignoring his anger management advisors, our current Greatest Liar on Earth – The Angry Orange – pursues his own alternative facts, and is often observed consulting his well-thumbed ‘Panga Management: The Narcissist’s Guide for Aspiring Dictators’. (Contributions: Stalin, Attila, Hitler, Saddam, Genghis, Kim and Enid Blyton.) Yikes! Can this orange ever be peeled? Where are Oprah and Chuck Norris now that we need them?

19 - 25 June 2018

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Good Guide

Tuesday 19 June

■ The Pollinators: who done it? Join Whale Coast Conservation for a presentation by Giorgio Lombardi on The Pollinators: who done it? R20 donation for environmental education. Contact Anina Lee on 083 242 3295 or anina.wcc@gmail.com. At The Green House, R43, Vermont, at 17:30.

Wednesday 20 June

state-owned enterprises. Dr Robin Lee will summarise developments regarding each of these challenges in the last three months since the AGM talk and assess whether President Ramaphosa has made progress in any field. Members R10; visitors R25. In the Catholic Church Hall, at 10:00. ■ Hermanus Botanical Society: At BotSoc’s monthly talk, Primatologist Joselyn Mormile of UCT’s Department of Biological Sciences and the Institute for Communities and Wildlife in Africa, will present a fascinating talk on The human-baboon interface in the village of Rooiels. Having worked with baboons throughout South Africa for over seven years, Joselyn is currently doing research in Rooiels for her PhD, which focuses on the challenges people and baboons face when competing for space in urbanised landscapes. In the Fernkloof Hall, at 17:30.

Friday 22 – Monday 25 June

■ Hermanus Bird Club: The club meeting will include a presentation by Peter Dagg on The Search for the Angola Cave Chat. Refreshments will be available for a donation. At Fernkloof Nature Reserve Hall, at 18:00 for 18:30.

Thursday 21 June ■ Hermanus Business Chamber: Join the HBC for a Soup & Sherry/ Wine evening that will chase away the winter chill. The theme will be ways of finding closer collaboration and considering an umbrella body where all parties can have representation, whilst retaining their unique character and role in the community. The HBC will also do a collection of warm clothes for organisations like SOFCA that care for the elderly from all communities. At Ocean Basket, Village Square, at 17:30.

Friday 22 June ■ Bhuki Café: Join the Friends of Hermanus Library for tea, coffee and eats for only R20 and help to raise funds for the library. Every Friday from 09:00 – 11:30, at Hermanus Library. ■ Kolwyntjie Teetuin: Everyone in the area is welcome to enjoy a sweet treat and tea or coffee at a nominal fee, and make new friends at the Onrus Care Centre (Dienssentrum). At the Onrus Dutch Reformed Church, every Friday between 09:30 and 11:30. ■ Ramaphosa’s Four Political Challenges: Any progress? U3A Members may recall the presentation made by Dr R W Johnson at U3A’s AGM when he identified four areas of national life in which it is essential that the country makes positive steps to improve policy and implementation: the failing education system; the restriction of economic growth; the size of the public sector; and the unsustainability of the

■ Gut Health Yogi Retreat: This 4-day retreat takes place in the nurturing environment of a boutique guest house & wellness retreat. Packages start from R5 300 sharing and include luxurious accommodation, all meals consisting of delicious food to restore gut health, daily BodySensing mindful movement and meditation facilitation, individual coaching sessions and a Gut Harmony Program to continue after the retreat. For more information or to book, contact Nicholas on 082 437 9776 or nicholas@guthealthyogi.com. At Forty Trees Guesthouse, Hermanus.

and wine lovers meet. You’ll find “real plates and real cutlery; real cups and real glasses; a real hangout for real people”. In the courtyard of Hermanuspietersfontein wine cellar at The Village, from 09:00 – 13:00. ■ Market in the Garden: Hunt for treasures at this peaceful market set among the shady trees of a beautiful garden. At St Peter’s Church in Main Road, Hermanus, from 09:00 – 13:00. ■ 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. ■ Wag in the Park: Join Harcourts Hermanus in supporting HAWS. Bringing your fourlegged children and take part in this fun Doggy Parade for charity. All dogs are welcome and there are awesome prizes to be won for the three best-dressed dogs. Water will be provided and all dogs must be on a leash. Entry fee: Only donations for HAWS. Bring a blanket, dog food or any pet supplies. At the Rheezicht Crescent Park in Onrus, from 11:00 – 13:00.

■ Hermanus Country Market: A favourite among the locals, old and young. Four-legged family members are also welcome. You’ll find wholesome goodies, home-made crafts, local produce, beers and wine, speciality foods, coffee and live music. Next to the cricket field, Fairways Avenue, from 09:00 – 13:00. ■ Hermanuspietersfontein Food & Wine Market: Where local and international foodies

■ Holiday fun: Tots from 4 – 7 years are invited to join Whale Coast Conservation for a shark egg case hunt and sharky crafts on the beach. If the weather is bad the activities will take place indoors. The cost is R350 per child. Booking is essential; contact Shirley on 028 316 2527 or shirleym@gmail.com. At Grotto Beach, from 09:00 – 12:00.

Wednesday 27 June ■ Forest Fantasy: Tots from 4 – 7 years are invited to join Whale Coast Conservation for an adventurous outing to Piet se Bos. If the weather is bad the activities will take place indoors. The cost is R350 per child. Booking is essential; contact Shirley on 028 316 2527 or shirleym@gmail.com. At Grotto Beach, from 09:00 – 12:00. ■ OnVerWag Public Accountability Meeting: The Onrus and Vermont communities are invited to come and join OnVerWag for feedback on current and future Neighbourhood Watch activities. At the Dutch Reformed Church, Berg Street, Onrus, at 18:00.

Thursday 28 June ■ OnVerWag Patroller Training: Receive the necessary training to join the Neighbourhood Watch patrol team and make the Onrus/Vermont community a safer place for all residents. At the Dutch Reformed Church, Berg Street, Onrus, at 18:00.

Saturday 23 June ■ 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-enAarde Valley, at 08:00.

Monday 25 June

Friday 29 June

■ Penguin Plunge: If you like chilling, then this thrilling annual event is for you, when the ‘penguins’ dive headfirst into the river to raise funds for local soup kitchens supported by the Rotary Club of Stanford. The chickens line up along the bank to watch the spectacle. So bust out your bikini or boardies, and see you there. All ‘penguins’ are served a mug of hot chocolate or gluhwein to warm their bellies. There will also be Boerewors rolls, hamburgers and cooldrinks for sale. On the riverbank between King and Quick Street, Stanford, from 10:30 – 13:00.

■ Fernkloof Fun: Tots from 4 – 7 years are invited to join Whale Coast Conservation for a fun outing to Fernkloof to discover nature’s treasure. If the weather is bad the activities will take place indoors. The cost is R350 per child. Booking is essential; contact Shirley on 028 316 2527 or shirleym@gmail.com. At Fernkloof Nature Reserve, from 09:00 – 12:00. ■ Happy Gardening: The Botrivier Garden Club will meet at Fiore Garden Centre in Botrivier. Come and be inspired! You are welcome to bring cuttings or plants to swop. For more info contact Wayne on 082 327 6322. At Fiore Garden Centre, Botrivier, at 10:00.

Village

EXPLORER EXPLORER The

FOOD • WINE • ARTS

FynArts shining bright in its sixth year debate on social media. The sculpture of a man lying on his side covered in paint prompted many to ask whether the work had been vandalised after some artworks were covered in paint by vandals last year. According to local sculptor Jaco Sieberhagen this is not the case. “There was no vandalism. The perceived vandalism of the work redefines the notion of ownership and the value of street art. The work is not complete, and the artist will make some more changes to it as the year progresses,” says Jaco. (Read more about the Sculpture on the Cliffs exhibition on P 13.)

De Waal Steyn

he FynArts Festival has shown its resilience to the tough economic climate, by growing for the sixth year running, says Festival Director Mary Faure. According to Mary ticket sales have grown by at least 7% compared to last year and it was hoped that by the end of the festival they would be able to show a total growth of at least 10%. “We were in the fortunate position this year that we made the provisional programme available very early and that led to a lot of online sales. Many of these were from people who attended the festival for the first time and most of them said they will be back next year. “The ongoing riots, both in Hermanus and along the N2 towards Cape Town did have a negative impact on sales, as the expected spike in sales just before the opening did not happen this year. Unfortunately, the R43 and the N2 were blocked at times and that might have deterred potential festivalgoers. But despite this we have had overwhelmingly positive feedback on the quality and content of this year’s festival,” she says. Feedback from both art galleries and restaurants show that spending during FynArts has been muted. Several artists say although there were plenty of visitors to their galleries, the number of paintings and artworks sold dropped significantly compared to last year. Jozua Rossouw of Rossouw Modern

PHOTO: Taylum Meyer Laura Bösenberg, a principal dancer with Cape Town City Ballet (CTCB) performs the ‘Dying Swan’ scene from Swan Lake. The audience was transported by her emotional expressions and beautiful, fluid movements. and SPACE galleries says although this year offered some of the best art exhibitions yet, sales were down on last year. “But it does seem that the turbulence of the last few weeks had a huge impact. The people who did come were the die-hard art fans and for that we are thankful. I am sure that FynArts still has room for growth and we will see it in the years to come. Patrons will make an effort to get here because of the excellent offering.” Restauranteurs say they had fewer patrons this year and that it was obvious that the choice in food was guided by value for money. “Although we had the same number

of people as in previous years, our specials were the favourites. In previous years half of our daily sales were specials; this year it was closer to 80%. Although we do not make a huge profit, if any, on specials, it keeps the till clicking over and staff employed,” said one restaurant owner. One of the biggest hits at this year’s FynArts Festival was the Cape Town City Ballet (CTCB) performances. It was the first time that ballet was added to the programme of art exhibitions, talks, workshops, demonstrations and music concerts. Both performances of ‘Dance Delights’ were sold out and audi-

ences were mesmerised. The Master Class ‘Training of a Dancer’ conducted by CTCB’s artistic director, Robin van Wyk, was just as popular as the ‘Dance Delights’. Other events that had festivalgoers in raptures were A Feast of Opera and Operetta conducted by Richard Cock, the Charles du Plessis Trio and Nataniël in Concert. The calibre of artists that participated in this year’s art exhibitions was also highly praised. However, there has been some controversy over a few of the sculptures on the Cliff Path, with especially a piece by sculptor Ruhan Janse van Vuuren entitled #thethirdseason eliciting much

Amid calls by some residents for the work to be removed, others saw a deeper meaning in it. Ammi Schutte commented on social media: I see the paint as the veneer of having to be pretty/rich/acceptable in whatever way, weighing this man down. The colours also seem to signify the artist might feel society is still too hung up about what a female (pink) or male (blue) person should be. I don't find it pretty, but it has gotten me thinking. I venture that is the point. Cape Whale Coast Marketing Manager, Frieda Lloyd says although the recent events have impacted on tourism, several role-players have met to discuss the way forward. “We will be sending out a strong message that the Whale Coast offers ‘a warmer shade of winter’. We live in a region where the huge resource of our natural beauty and all it offers is still largely untapped in terms of marketing it to the world. Every season on the Cape Whale Coast offers visitors another experience. By building on this we will be able to expand tourism and drive economic development in all our towns,” she says.

BOOKS

19 - 25 June 2018

Hermanus bookshops play host to authors

everal publishers and authors have been hosted by Hermanus bookshops for launches, talks, readings and signings in the last few weeks. First up was bookmark’s launch of Irna van Zyl’s crime thriller Death Cup (translated from the Afrikaans Gifbeker), which was held at Source in Hemel-en-Aarde Village on 24 May.

Forensic pathologist Dr Linda Liebenberg joined the conversation about Irna van Zyl’s crime thriller Death Cup, at the book launch hosted at Source.

After being introduced by bookmark’s owner, Corinne Hendry, Irna was in conversation with wellknown author Chanette Paul and forensic pathologist Dr Linda Liebenberg. Chef Warwick Taylor, the owner of Source, made sure none of the over 100 guests went hungry or thirsty on a chilly evening.

Among them were the lucky winners of the raffle prizes, which included book vouchers from The Book Cottage, book hampers from Struik Nature, signed copies of Cuddle Me Kill Me and complementary visits to Panthera Africa. A portion of the proceeds from the evening’s book sales were donated to Panthera Africa.

The following week saw book and animal lovers brave a winter storm to make their way to The Book Cottage to attend the launch of veteran wildlife campaigner and author Richard Peirce’s latest book, Cuddle Me Kill Me, which reveals horrifying facts about the canned hunting industry.

The intimate ambience of The Book Collector, owned by Benadé Kruger and Chris Steyn, was the perfect venue for two FynArts book readings last week. The shop was filled to capacity for both events, the first of which was a presentation by Sylvia Vollenhoven on 13 June, when she delighted her audience by relating why and how she came to write her book, The Keeper of the Kumm.

The event, which was due to have taken place on 17 May and had to be rescheduled because of the protests, was a collaboration between Penguin Random House, The Book Cottage and Panthera Africa Big Cat Sanctuary near Stanford. After Richard’s talk, during which he revealed his investigative techniques that exposed the dreadful fate of these lions, Cathrine Nyquist from Panthera Africa also said a few words about the sanctuary’s work with rescued big cats. This launch, too, was attended by more than a hundred people.

Wildlife conservationist and author Richard Peirce signing copies of his latest book, Cuddle Me Kill Me, at the recent launch at The Book Cottage.

In ‘Tannie Maria meets Queen of the Free State’ the following day, authors Sally Andrew and Jennifer Friedman discussed the goings-on in small-town South Africa, which provides the setting for their respective novels, Tannie Maria: Recipes for Love and Queen of the Free State. Benadé and Chris said they were looking forward to hosting more readings during FynArts 2019. – Hedda Mittner

Sylvia Vollenhoven reads a passage from her book The Keeper of the Kumm, at The Book Collector during FynArts.

19 - 25 June 2018

Sculpture on the Cliffs explained

he Sculpture on the Cliffs exhibition is one of the cornerstones of Hermanus’ unique, home-grown FynArts Festival. Every year, renowned South African artists, many of whom enjoy world-wide recognition, are invited to take part in this outdoor exhibition at Gearing’s Point on our spectacular Cliff Path.

4. Lwandiso Njara Title: Catholic Altar Boy's Toys IV Growing-up in a traditional Xhosa household, Lwandiso Njara’s Catholic schooling by nuns from India and Switzerland exposed him to different ideologies and technologies. His work is centred around the contrast of Xhosa ancestral rituals and his Catholic education. In his pieces he tries to combine the influences of these lifestyles in a questioning way that moves beyond binary opposites that imply the one is superior to the other. “I take the necessary from each and use them to construct a new identity that is multiple in its reading,” says the artist.

This year the theme of the exhibition is ‘The Human Figure’, an enduring subject in the world of art. The works of this year’s ten participating artists display a wide diversity of material, technique, function, belief and purpose in a way that is sensitive to both site and context. As has happened in previous years, these works have elicited equally diverse responses and comments on social media. Negative sentiments that have been expressed include labelling some of the works as “trash”, “rubbish” or “awful”, and calling for them to be removed. Local artist and curator Jaco Sieberhagen considers it a pity that some residents are unable to appreciate the significance of these artworks and suggested to The Village NEWS that we enlighten our readers with a little information regarding these sculptures. It is our hope that, instead of succumbing to a knee-jerk reaction, our readers may be enlightened – and even inspired – by the stories and motivations behind these works.

2. Marco Cianfanelli Title: Cerebral Aspect (series) Marco Cianfanelli’s previous explorations of the human brain as form, find new dimension in a series of digitally altered brain-like objects. The faceted forms of the objects are geometric distillations of the brain’s vast, organic topography and, in their dramatic simplification, act to acknowledge the limits of our knowledge. The geometric brain is a symbol that embodies the human desire to identify categorically and represent symbolically, an unquantifiable flux of information. The expansive potential of the brain is enclosed in a geometric case that speaks of the exteriority of the brain’s housing, and asks for an archaeological understanding of the form through its absence. These geometric vessels explore questions of where and how we locate the ‘self’ within the body and

suggest that one’s personality is analogous with the brain as organ. Condensing the intricacy of the organ into reduced, geometric forms allows it to adopt the appearance of a Palaeolithic stone implement. The subtext reads of violence, of defense and survival and in their materiality, the forms point to a duality between progress and destruction inherent in technological advancement. Displacing organic materials and natural processes in favour of synthetics and digital rendering, the brain has become the site of devaluation as a direct result of the proliferation of digital technology. More than implements, these objects are artifacts of the present and, whether viewed as monoliths in a landscape or implements of survival, they conjure the past and hypothesise a future trajectory. They speak to the collection of significant historical artifacts and mark our technological evolution, locating us in time and suggesting that our greatest and most dangerous tool is, in fact, our brain.

In Catholic Altar Boy’s Toys IV, Njara depicts his understanding of a changing identity – as influenced by his upbringing, spiritual awakening and development during his boyhood years in rural Transkei. It is simultaneously a contemporary work and a reference to bygone times and experiences. “I believe that my work resembles or explores the new contemporary robotic or technological African urban identity,” he says. He often blatantly merges polarities in one body through using the lamb, the goat and the cow, fused with mechanical gears and engines, all acting as signifiers for the artist’s own hybrid sense of contemporary African identity. The message is that identities are not necessarily singular and fixed, but could be multifaceted and fragmented. His work is often unpolished and raw, exposing the internal workings of machines through tools, cogs and mechanisms. Although Njara’s work conveys a personal investigation of his identity, this exploration can be applied to a collective consciousness, where the diversity within South Africa is creating a hybrid third culture, and essential, separatist, understandings of identity are disappearing as our nation becomes trans-conscious.

1. Ruhan Janse van Vuuren Title: #thethirdseason #thethirdseason symbolises a transitional phase, an autumn so to speak. The sculpture forms the landscape of the work itself, and will continuously change as a result of the actions of artist Bastian van Stenis, who will add his brushwork over time by using the sculpture as a canvas. The work is a transitional piece that is positioned on the border between fine art and street art. In street art the artists aim to reclaim the spaces of their identity, and the perceived vandalism of the work redefines the notion of ownership and value. As the process of #thethirdseason continues to evolve over the coming months, the meaning will become redefined according to an individual’s experience thereof.

3. Haidee Nel Title: Meerlin In the story of Haidee’s work The Mermaid is the next logical narrative after The infantry Girl series, which raised the question: How do we protect our children? How can children protect themselves? “In a sense we all carry some hurt or disappointment from our childhood within ourselves,” says the artist. “The question is how we deal with this pain

and how do we prevent it from solidifying in us and being passed on to our children and their children? How can we effectively handle the pain without internalising it, resulting in eventual abusive expression?” The harsh realisation of escalating violence against children urged Haidee to create this work, asking the question: Do children have to wear heavy armour for protection against their own frailty and the confused values of humankind? The artist realises that, while the Infantry Girls is a monument to all who have experienced pain and abuse, armour cannot become

a permanent state of being. The Mermaid, in contrast, is a monument to those who turn this pain into beauty. In this work the armour is transformed into a fragile-looking fish tail garment, rotating out of the emotional waters into the light the sun. In the next chapter, The Mermaid is about regaining beauty, sensuality and innocence; about shape shifting what was once before. Death to the victim. Life to the Hero. The battle won by consciousness shifting. The gift of accepting suffering and pain is a new life, a pursuit to find true love. Lightness of being.

19 - 25 June 2018

MY NEWS Environment THE

Walk and talk – Whale Coast style

ho among us doesn’t like to go on an adventure? If you can’t scale the lofty mountains, nor sail the seven seas, you can still experience nature through the walks and talks presented by Whale Coast Conservation (WCC). Our monthly talks focus on aspects of nature and conservation. The talks are given by experts in their field who readily share their research and their passion with our members. Talks are richly illustrated with photographs and other visuals that provide a strong sense of reality. They regularly draw a large and enthusiastic audience to the Green House, but there is always room for more. In the first part of this article we will look at some of the talks that Whale Coast Conservation has hosted over the past six years. In part two we will re-live a few of our memorable ecoadventures. Dead, dying and desperate to survive was a talk on rhino conservation by Dr William Fowlds, wildlife vet. He talked about his often very emotional personal experiences of treating wounded poached rhinos. Some of the stories about the cruel treatment of rhinos by poachers were heart-rending and brought a tear not only to the speaker’s eye. Dr Pierre Hugo’s talk on the Abagold Wave Energy Proposal was a great hit. He explained his plan to harness the energy of the waves in Walker Bay to generate electricity from it. We applaud this initiative by the Mean Sea Level Company to harness a sustainable energy source. What can I do? by Prof Les Underhill of Animal Demography Unit at UCT explained how everyone can become a citizen scientist by contributing data that will be used to make a difference to biodiversity conservation. Since then WCC’s Sheraine van Wyk has become one of the leading citizen-science practitioners in the country. Acclaimed floral designer David Davidson took us on many floral adventures over the years including the Chelsea Flower Show. We examined our love-hate relationship with micro-organisms with Prof Gideon Wolfaardt. He impressed upon us that we literally are what

we eat, since our overall health is controlled by the micro-organisms in our gut. Do you ever have a ‘gut feel’? It’s probably your bacteria telling you something. Our talks ranged from micro-organisms to macro-organisms. Dr Anna Whitehouse shared the history of the Addo elephants that can all be traced back to only four breeding females left in the Eastern Cape at the beginning of the 20th century. Professor Johann du Preez illustrated how organisms interact both with their physical environment and one another to make a community that is more than the sum of its parts. Dr Els Vermeulen put whale conservation into context. The question on most people’s mind was whether boat-based whale-watching affects ‘our’ whales? She explained that South Africa’s whale watching is well-regulated and the economic benefits for the region outweigh any possible short-term behavioural changes. Importantly, whale-watching increases general environmental awareness. If you missed these fascinating talks, don’t despair. There is a great line-up for the rest of the year: In July George and Margot Branch will talk about the new edition of their best-selling classic: The living Shores – adventures of two marine biologists. In August Mike Allsopp will assess the current status of South Africa’s honey bees. The speaker at the WCC Annual General Meeting in September is Jean Tresfon, acclaimed conservation photographer who will take us on an aerial journey around the Western Cape. Photographs taken from a microlight and drone give a whole new perspective of the Cape we love. The speaker in October is Mike Bruton, who will recreate the amazing story of the discovery of the first coelacanth and the subsequent quest to find another. All the WCC talks are open to the public. Please contact Ingrid de Plessis on 028 316 2527 or ingrid.wcc@gmail.com to be added to the WCC mailing list to receive monthly newsletters and notifications of all talks and adventures in nature. Membership of WCC is free. What a bargain. - Anina Lee

19 - 25 June 2018

2018

Festival ends on a high note PHOTOS: Hedda Mittner and Taylum Meyer

Jeandré Marinier, Jozua Rossouw, Simon Turner, Vivienne Mitchley, Holly Bellingham-Turner, Jessica Shaw, Yzane Oelofsen and Peter Africa at the Violet and Anne Bellingham Art Awards hosted by Sumaridge on Friday 15 June.

Peter Africa from Northclif House College with Holly Bellingham-Turner congratulating him on winning the First Friday Artwalk Award for hard work and dedication.

ABOVE: Jessica Shaw with Ralph Walton, who guided this Hermanus High learner when she made her jewellery piece that won her the Davall Trophy for Design at the Violet and Anne Bellingham Art Awards. RIGHT: Yzane Oelofsen, who won the trophy in the Visual Arts category, with Simon and Holly Bellingham-Turner.

Author and award-winning journalist and filmmaker, Sylvia Vollenhoven presented a fascinating talk and reading from her book The Keeper of the Kumm at The Book Collector on Thursday 14 June. After the presentation she chatted to festivalgoers and David Hilton Barber was among those who purchased a copy of her book and had it signed by the author.

Jordan Roelfze and four female members of the Cape Town City Ballet perform a dance from Giselle during the Master Class demonstration in the Municipal Auditorium on Saturday 16 June.

Rhodé Gonggrip and Angelie Wassink from the Netherlands performed their children’s play Wow! The Sea is Made of Plastic at the Grobbelaar Hall on Youth Day. The play tells a story about Mother Earth with a strong message about global warming. In the image above, one of the girls, Gaia, jumps on a ‘cow’ before the cow proceeds to tell her about methane gases in our atmosphere. Children and adults alike enjoyed the characters in the play, from the farting cow and the polar bear with hay fever, to the rapping panda bear.

Chef Rickey Broekhoven from the Newton Johnson Restaurant displayed his skills by making a sunflower risotto with miso roasted root vegetables and celeriac espuma at the Chefs Demonstration in the pop-up kitchen at the United Church on Monday 11 June. Guests were treated to a glass of white wine from Newton Johnson with a small tasting portion of the dish at the end of the demonstration.

Among those who attended the last talk in the Wine Plus Series at The Marine on Tuesday 12 June, were Festival Director Mary Faure (left) and media personality Shado Twala (third from left), with Wine Plus curator Melvyn Minnaar and tourism manager Frieda Lloyd.

Paul du Toit once again held his audience captive at his soldout presentation on The Gin Revolution at The Marine on Wednesday 13 June.

19 - 25 June 2018

Good works – Thuma Mina

hen considering all the socio-economic problems we face today, reflecting on our sorry history of inhumanity in this beautiful country of ours, it is easy to despair, easy to become depressed. Clearly, this is not going to improve things. Clearly this is hopeless. We must embrace our new President's call of THUMA MINA – SEND ME. We cannot on our own resolve the massive problems that confront us, but we must do what we can. We must start from where we are. We know our strengths, we know what sort of things we are good at. We can do something. We can make a difference. The Village NEWS is in the process of compiling a booklet (print and electronic format) detailing the activities of all the non-governmental organisations (NGOs) in the Overstrand area. The purpose is to describe what is being done so that: • Caring people can get involved as volunteers; • Caring people can donate money; • Caring people elsewhere in South Africa (and perhaps in other countries) who may want to start similar projects

can see what’s been done, how it’s been done and can seek guidance from these successful undertakings; • People deserving and wanting to take advantage of what is available can find what they feel they may need for themselves or for their children; • Community leaders can see what is being done, thus ensuring support for these initiatives. We have listed below those NGOs we know about and need readers to please let us know of those we have omitted, as well as any spelling mistakes, for which, apologies! Send your email to: dewaal@villagenews.co.za We have prepared a template for completion by the NGOs so that the booklet has some uniformity. The template will cover things like Mission/ Vision, what is involved, background, numbers (paid staff, volunteers, beneficiaries helped), activities, problems, contact personnel, contact numbers for enquiries, etc. “We need a better world and every person who wants a better world can help to make one.”

List of NGOs thus far Children • Anima • Sparkle Kids • Just Care • Enlighten Education Trust • Shine@Lukhanyo Primary (part of Enlighten Trust) • Pebbles – Hemel en Aarde Education Project • Izibusiso • Yomelelani • Educare Centre • Pinkster Evangeliese Stryders • Ontwikkeling van Jeug in die Gemeentskap • Felicia Jeneker (who reads Obby stories to Hawston children twice a month) • Solidariteit Helpende Hand – Skooltassie Projek • Clive Prins Youth Treatment Programme • Bag of Love – Society of St Vincent de Paul (RC Church) • Early Childhood Development – After School Care • Hermanus Child Welfare • Kleinmond Child Welfare • Cape Orca Swim School • Ella Gordon Crèche • Flower Valley Early Learning Centre Adults • Hermanus Night Shelter

Association • Friends of Hermanus Hospital • Zwelihle Charity Development Trust • Jabulani Rural Health Foundation • Learn to Earn • Lighthouse Safe House in Mount Pleasant and Jubilee House in Hawston • Hermanus Senior Sentrum • Backpack Project Supper Club • Hermanus Staan Saam • The Mentoring Project • Hemel-en-Aarde Community Project General • Overstrand Association for Persons with Disabilities Overberg Wheelchair Association (OAPD) • Overstrand Hospice • Ability House Hawston • Health and Welfare Centre – Hawston • Butterfly Foundation and • Butterfly Centre – Stanford • Sustainable Futures Trust • #itsmyshop (Dutchies) • Rotary Anns • Hermanus Rotary • Lighthouse 2 Lighthouse Ladies Walk

• • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • •

SANTA Red Cross Rainbow Trust Whale Coast Conservation Hermanus Animal Welfare Kleinmond Animal Welfare Stanford Animal Welfare Gansbaai Animal Welfare Swop Shop Zwelihle Swop Shop Masakhane NSRI Hermanus Station 17 Rescue Animal Drive (RAD) Right to Care Overstrand CANSA Badisa Camphill Farm Renosterveld Conservation Trust Grootbos Foundation SA Shark Conservancy Dyer Island Conservation Trust (DICT) African Penguin & Seabird Sanctuary (APSS) Abagold Development Trust

Thuma Mina template for NGOs • • • • • • • • •

Name of organisation NPO number Mission/Vision What we do Background – why we started Activities Problems Photographs (3 only) Other

• • • •

Name of Manager Number of paid staff Number of Volunteers Number of children/adults helped • Contact telephone/cell numbers + email • Website • Street address Please send all information to: dewaal@thevillagenews.co.za

19 - 25 June 2018

Zeddy’s Story: from wasteland to Garden of Eden Elaine Davie

n the beautiful Chimanimani Mountains in the Eastern Highlands of Zimbabwe lies the remote village community of Chikukwa. Their fat cattle graze in the long grass, indigenous shade and fruit trees flourish and each homestead has its own vegetable garden, watered by perennial streams from the mountains. It is clearly a thriving community, at peace with itself and the world. But these idyllic conditions were not always so… Earlier this year well-known Hermanus resident Elvia Bury travelled to Zimbabwe to run a homeopathy and natural healing workshop and there she met a remarkable young man called Zeddy Chikukwa, who, despite still being in his thirties, was an elder in his community. The story he shared with her about the renaissance of his village from wasteland to Garden of Eden so enthralled her that at the conclusion of the workshop she decided to travel there with him and see it for herself. The reality was even more inspiring than his account of it had been. What impressed her most was the process of cooperation and innovation that had bound the community together around a common purpose of environmental sustainability.

munity, their resilience and commitment and the often difficult road they travelled to bring new life to their village. It is a story which perhaps resonates with the turbulent times many communities are experiencing in South Africa and even in the Overstrand, today.

knowledge with spiritual grounding, they worked their way towards greater intergenerational dialogue, to conflict resolution and a more cohesive attitude to the overall development of the community. As a record of this entire process which had taken place over a period of roughly 20 years, a handbook, The Three Circles of Knowledge was produced by the community. Taking two years to compile, it is its own story, warts and all, and can be used as a road map for other communities who wish to walk a similar path.

In the early 1990s it became clear to the village chief – Zeddy’s grandfather – and other community leaders that the village was in a bad way. The people were poor, they often went hungry, many of the children suffered from Kwashiorkor and other symptoms of malnutrition and there was no peace amongst them. Instead of managing their environment effectively, they had cut down the trees on the mountain, the rich soil had washed away and the streams had dried up. They had been traumatised during the war of independence, and Renamo bandits from across the Mozambican border regularly raided the village and stole their animals and their young women. Having conducted a number of traditional rituals and consulted the ancestors for guidance on the way forward, they were one day introduced to permaculture, the farming model to eradicate African rural poverty.

At the end of May this year Elvia celebrated her 90th birthday at Enlighten Trust and she invited Zeddy to share in this joyous occasion with her, her family and her rainbow circle of friends. She was also able to arrange for him to tell his story at a gathering at the Volmoed Retreat Centre on 5 June.

They started a permaculture school and neighbour taught neighbour how to grow vegetables on a patch of land no bigger than a door. They collected the seeds of indigenous shade and fruit trees and started a tree nursery, planting new trees on the mountain slopes, and in the village itself, mangoes, peaches, avocados, paw paws.

This then is the inspirational account of the Chikukwa com-

Even the children in the ECD

Zeddy Chikukwa with well-known Hermanus resident Elvia Bury at Volmoed, where Zeddy recently did an inspirational presentation. centre, primary and secondary school were taught to grow trees in jam tins. Because of their isolation from medical centres, they also grew herbs, making teas and infusions which helped to heal a variety of ailments. A Permaculture Training Centre was established with the assistance of a German organisation and the newlyestablished Chikukwa Ecological Land Use Community Trust (CELUCT), winning, in due course, an international award for the best centre of its kind in the world. Under Zeddy’s leadership, a Youth Action Learning Group consisting of 120 young people was formed, and given a plot of land on which to experiment with new crops, organic fertilizer and compost, and the collection and propagation of new plants from seeds they had collected.

Slowly the streams started to reappear on the mountain as the trees took root. No water was wasted; every drop was recycled and used for agriculture. Eventually, representatives from the 21 other wards in the region came to learn about the project and the District Administrator started taking note of this quiet revolution on his doorstep. The outreach arm of the project now touches 150 000 people and works directly with 60 000. No chemical pesticides or fertilizers are used. Instead, compost pits have been created, and manure from small animals like chickens, rabbits and goats is added. Within 21 days they produce living soil which is ideal for the nutritious crops they grow. The herd of 580 cattle is cared for by four village herders and rotated continuously from one

pasture to another, fur-ther fertilizing the land. Fifty grass species which they thought had disappeared have reappeared in the pas-tures and are used for thatch-ing. Now, in addition to the abundance of vegetables and fruit produced by each household for their own consumption, they are able to sell the excess on local markets and to make fruit juices, jams and dried fruit and vegetables as well. However, all these positive developments have not been without their pitfalls. Being human, jealousies, greed and disputes erupted amongst the villagers. It gradually became clear to the leaders that it was not enough just to care for the environment and physical health of the villagers; their emotional and interpersonal wellbeing were critical, too. By combining traditional

The three intersecting circles comprise the most important elements of that journey: indigenous knowledge; analysis of the process being followed, by means of storytelling, role plays, etc. and strategic planning for the future; and finally, the spiritual life of the community, which encompasses listening to the inner voice of wisdom, reflection and mindfulness. Looking to the future, the village is very aware of the threat of global warming, with diminished and inconsistent rainfall. It is building more plant nurseries, harvesting more indigenous seeds and paying greater attention to water conservation. Perhaps one of the greatest lessons learned, however, has been the importance of respect – respect for the sacred mountains and forests that God created for their use and preservation, and respect for one another, to-wards creating a spirit of social unity, prosperity and peace for all. Copies of the book The Three Circles of Knowledge can be obtained from Elvia Bury by sending an email to eabury@hermanus.co.za

19 - 25 June 2018

Supplements: Why, what and how much? With such a bewildering range of products available today, many consumers are confused when it comes to choosing supplements. What do you really need and which are the best supplements to take? DR ARIEN VAN DER MERWE, who has researched and written about supplements since 1995, helps us to make sense of this often hotly debated topic.

ood supplements made from natural (rather than synthetic) food-based ingredients, are called nutriceuticals. They are recognised by the body as natural and therefore the absorption and bioavailability for cellular function would be better than that of synthetic (manufactured) supplements. Nutriceuticals should be taken on a daily basis complementary to a healthy diet, as an insurance policy to ensure optimal health and wellbeing. Most of us consume enough macronutrients (carbohydrates, fats and proteins) to provide energy and maintain bodily functions, but not enough micronutrients. To provide adequate quantities for the daily requirement of micronutrients, we have to eat 5 – 9 portions of high quality, nutritious, organic, fresh fruit and vegetables a day to optimise health and wellbeing and to prevent the chronic diseases of lifestyle (CDL). These CDLs include heart disease, dia-betes, cancer, arthritis, athero-sclerosis (thickening of the arteries), high blood pressure, eczema, psoriasis, chronic infections such as sinusitis or bronchitis, allergies and osteoporosis. The body’s detoxification sys-

tem also depends on certain micronutrients to function effectively and even a marginal deficiency can lead to health problems, especially if compounded by an unhealthy lifestyle (poor dietary habits, unhealthy food, lack of exercise, smoking, too much alcohol etc.) Many research studies have proven that nutriceutical food supplements contribute to the prevention of chronic degenerative diseases, and should be part of a healthy lifestyle. Using these three basic food supplements will help you to take the first steps towards a life of health and wellbeing, often leading to taking responsibility for other aspects of your lifestyle, such as regular exercise, a healthy diet and daily relaxation practice. And remember that the combination and synergy (cooperation) of vitamins, minerals and other micronutrients are more important than the quantities of single micronutrients. Always take vitamins and minerals with meals for better absorption, and take calcium and magnesium at night to ensure a better night's sleep. 1. Comprehensive Heart Brain Body Support and Antioxidant Balance

This nutriceutical food supplement provides the antioxidants that either destroy or neutralise free radicals to prevent cellular damage, slow down the ageing process, and ensure optimal enzyme functioning. They also directly support the performance of the immune system; suppress and neutralise the effect of carcinogens, thereby preventing cancer cell growth; and prevent the oxidation of LDLcholesterol, thereby preventing damage to the arterial lining that leads to thickening of the arteries. 2. Calcium Magnesium Balance with Vitamin D, C, boron & potassium There is much confusion around the proper use of calcium and magnesium, especially in relation to osteoporosis (thinning or brittleness of the bone). It is never too late to start taking calcium. Calcium and magnesium are needed for so many physical functions in the body, and if the body does not have enough for its needs, it simply takes it from the bone. Calcium and magnesium supplements therefore prevent osteoporosis from becoming worse and may even improve the condition. It is important to remember

that a mineral has to be bonded before it can be absorbed from the digestive tract. The best way of bonding is a chelation process in which minerals are linked to amino acids, the building blocks of protein, which the body recognises as food, thereby ensuring excellent absorption, bioavailability and biological activity of such minerals in the body. I recommend that you buy mineral supplements that are already in an amino acid chelation. Calcium - The requirement for calcium is between 1 000 mg and 1 300 mg a day. The chief source of calcium is dairy products. Calcium is also found in reasonable quantities in leafy green vegetables, egg yolk, pulses (legumes) and nuts. It is almost impossible to obtain enough calcium for normal daily requirements through food alone. Everyone should take supplements: 600 mg per day for general needs, and menopausal and postmenopausal women should take 900 to 1 000 mg a day. Magnesium - The metabolism of calcium and magnesium and their mutual functions are interdependent as these two crucial minerals always work together in synergy. The main problem with magnesium intake is that

only 30 to 50% of the daily intake is absorbed. Any additional calcium intake also interferes with magnesium uptake. If a person is taking a calcium supplement, it is therefore essential to take 300 – 500 mg magnesium with it. Based on the recommended daily allowance, the optimal ratio of calcium to magnesium should be about two to one. Vitamin D - Along with proteins and lactose, Vitamin D promotes the absorption of important micronutrients, including magnesium and calcium. It also improves the bioavailability of calcium. For balance and optimal absorption, take 300 to 600 IU of vita-min D with 600 to 900 mg calcium and 300 to 450 mg magnesium every evening. Vitamin C - Vitamin C ensures that calcium is absorbed into the osteoblasts – the bone cells responsible for the formation of bone and the deposits of cal-cium in the bone. Take about 200 mg of vitamin C in the evenings with your calcium, magnesium and vitamin D. It is recommended that you take this combination at night to support the relaxation of muscles and nerves for a better night’s rest.

Boron & Potassium - Take 2mg of boron a day, as it is important for the metabolism of calcium, magnesium and phosphorus. Potassium (about 200 mg per day) ensures the correct pH balance of the metabolism of calcium and magnesium in bones and muscles (cardiac, skeletal and smooth muscle). 3. Super Omega Balance The diet of earlier generations was rich in omega 3 and omega 6 fatty acids, which support every cell and function in the body. The typical Western diet contains mainly omega 6 fatty acids in the form of linoleic acid, with very small quantities of omega 3 fatty acids (e.g. linseed or flax seed oil). This imbalance places a physiological burden on the human body. It is therefore important to supplement your diet with omega 3 oils rich in EPA (eicosapentanoic acid) and DHA (docosahexanoic acid) in the form of fish oil (cod liver or cold water salmon oil). To take in a sufficient quantity in the diet alone, you would need to eat about 1 kg of oily fish (e.g. sardines, salmon, trout, mackerel) a week. - Adapted from Dr Arien van der Merwe’s book ‘Health & Happiness’ For more info visit www.DrArien.co.za

19 - 25 June 2018

So, come up to The Lab… Even those who don’t remember the lyrics of this song from The Rocky Horror Picture Show are invited to The LAB – Hermanus’ chic new beauty salon located in the little alley that connects Main Road to the Village Square. When I visited them last week, the salon was a beehive of activity and owner Cailyn Hendriksz said it’s been like that since their opening last month. Nuclear Medicine Specialist Dr Annalie Viviers, practice manager Manda Cronje and Nuclear Medicine Radiographer Jo-Anne Dreyer of the newly opened Hermanus Nuclear Medicine practice at the Hermanus Medical Village.

Nuclear Medicine – radiating health An exciting new addition to the Hermanus Medical Village in De Goede Street, which already comprises a Day Hospital, Oncology Centre, Spescare facility and Elderly Care Place, is Dr Annalie Viviers’ Nuclear Medicine practice. This state-of-the-art facility is another first for Hermanus – and a superior diagnostic tool for specialists in a wide range of medical fields. Annalie already owns three practices in Gauteng and was convinced by Dr John Duminy, head of the Hermanus Oncology Centre, whom she has known for many years, to open a practice in Hermanus. By May the new facility was set up and Annelie celebrated the official opening with a small function on 14 June. While she commutes regularly between Hermanus and Johannesburg, Annelie relies on her two right hands, Nuclear Medicine Radiographer Jo-Anne Dreyer and practice manager Manda Cronje, to keep the wheels running smoothly. So what exactly is nuclear medicine? Basically it makes use of tiny amounts of radioactive materials called radioisotypes that are linked to organ-specific agents to form radioactive tracers, which can be inhaled or swallowed by, or injected into, the patient. These radioactive tracers (or radiopharmaceuticals) then accumulate in specific organs, bone, tissue or systems and emit gamma rays for medical imaging. These highly accurate scans allow specialists to view and assess the physiological structure and functioning of specific parts of the human body. At Hermanus Nuclear Medicine, this medical imaging is done by an impressive-looking Mediso Gamma Camera that provides very precise images, allowing for conditions and

diseases to be identified at a much earlier stage. Nuclear medicine is used in a number of branches of medicine including oncology, cardiology, neurology and endocrinology, specifically thyroid conditions. While most nuclear medicine procedures are performed for diagnostic or evaluation purposes, therapeutic applications of medical radioisotopes also allow for targeted, non-invasive treatment. It is a safe procedure to undergo, as the level of radiation the patient is exposed to is often lower than that received during an X-ray – and much more accurate. Demand for nuclear medicine is being driven by increases in the incidence of cancers and cardiovascular disease, and by the growing number of new applications for medical radioisotopes, including the study of neurological and psychiatric diseases. Nuclear medicine imaging does not, like X-rays, reveal the structural anatomy of the body; rather, it shows the physiological functioning of the body and allows the measurement of its biological and chemical processes. “We receive referrals from a variety of specialists,” says Annelie, “including oncologists, cardiologists, orthopaedic surgeons, physicians, urologists and paediatricians. Nuclear medicine enables us to pinpoint the exact location of a condition or disease, including lesions, tumours and stress fractures. It is of tremendous benefit to physicians and surgeons when it comes to diagnosing a problem, planning a surgery or deciding on a course of treatment.” – Hedda Mittner (additional source: engineeringnews.co.za)

It’s not difficult to figure out why customers flock to this pamper palace – it has been stylishly decorated and has a great vibe. The space, which incorporates a hair salon, a double pedicure station, a nail bar and two massage rooms, has been completely transformed since Hair Affair closed its doors – and Cailyn’s family jumped in to assist with the creation of the customdesigned interior. “Opening your own business, especially in the dead of winter, is a scary prospect,” said Cailyn, “but fortunately my husband Jaco and my in-laws were very supportive and encouraging.” Having the entrepreneurial Hendriksz family behind you can only be a good thing – just look at what Cailyn’s brother-in-law Petri accomplished at his restaurant Char’d, also at the Village Square, just around the corner from The Lab. And parents-inlaw Petrus and Estelle are always at the ready to roll up their sleeves and assist their children in accomplishing their dreams. Cailyn, who grew up in Hermanus, said that after six years overseas where she and Jaco

Cailyn Hendriksz (second from right) with her team: nail technician Natasha Swart, salon assistant Privilege Mango, spa therapist Margeaux Wucherpfennig and hair stylist JC Castelyn, at The Lab’s double pedicure station. worked on super yachts, they missed their family and wanted to settle down. While Cailyn is now the proud owner of The Lab, Jaco has established his own refrigeration and maintenance business. Cailyn said it was while they were based in Antibes in southern France that she was inspired to open her own beauty salon one day. “There was this salon that I used to go to, where they did everything from nails and hair to facials and massages. The salon was beautifully decorated and there was always good music and a great buzz.” At The Lab customers can expect the same range of services, including hair styling, manicures and pedicures, facials, threading, waxing, tinting, lash extensions, permanent makeup and bridal packages, to name but a few. There is also a coffee station and a take-away lunch menu from

Char’d, exclusively designed for The Lab’s customers by Petri. These thoughtful extras make The Lab the ideal destination for anything from a quick wash, cut and blow to an extended pampering session. Their retail station also offers skin, body and hair products such as the Kalahari skincare range, Bio Sculpture Gel nail polish and high-end hair products from Schwarzkopf, Joico, Redken and ghd. Take your mom or a friend along and start your pampering session off at the double pedicure station, followed by any of the other treatments that will make you feel like a new person. “This is not a pink, girlie place and men are more than welcome too,” said Cailyn. The Lab offers loyalty cards and 20% discount on selected treatments for over 60s and students up to Grade 12. Contact 028 312 2450 for an appointment.

19 - 25 June 2018

Check rules, finances and levies when buying Sectional Title

f you are thinking of buying into an apartment building or other Sectional Title (ST) complex, it’s vital that you read and understand the Conduct Rules of that complex before you sign any offer to purchase.

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NEWS

MY Home

These rules are not standard for every complex. In terms of the Sectional Title Schemes Management Act (STSMA), the owners in a complex are able to change conduct rules or make new ones that, subject to approval by the Community Housing Schemes Ombud, will apply only to their complex. It is well-known that some complexes do not permit pets, for example, but owners are also able to make complexspecific rules about the use of communal amenities such as swimming pools and car wash bays, for example, or about where and when residents may hang washing, dispose of refuse, or allow construction work to take place, even inside their own sections. It is important for ST buyers to realise that they will not just be moving into a new home but also immediately become part of an established community which has over time come up with its own a specific Code of Conduct to help its members get along – and where they are likely to feel very uncomfortable if the rules clash with their own needs or lifestyle. This is why any agent worth their salt will give you a copy of the Conduct Rules when you

attend a show day or view a unit for sale in a ST complex – along with copies of the most important documents relating to the financial wellbeing of the complex as a whole, such as the most recent audited financial statements and the approved budget for the current year. As a prospective buyer, it is also vital that you ascertain what your levy commitment would be as an owner in a particular complex. This is usually determined by the Participation Quota (PQ) schedule, which shows how big each section in the complex is in relation to the whole and thus what percentage of the common expenses each owner should pay each month. These joint expenses include insurance premiums, main-

What is a Body Corporate? The Body Corporate is the collective name given to all the owners of units in a Sectional Title Development Scheme. ‘Units’ usually refers to the townhouses or flats in a development. The body corporate comes into existence as soon as the developer of the scheme transfers a unit to a new owner. This means that all registered owners of units in a scheme are members of the Body Corporate.

member of a Body Corporate is entitled to vote at these meetings, providing that the member is not in arrears with levy payments or in serious breach of the rules.

The Body Corporate controls and runs the Scheme Day-to-day administration of the Scheme is vested in trustees who are appointed by the Body Corporate.

The Body Corporate exists to manage and administer the land and buildings in the scheme. This means that the Body Corporate is required to enforce the legislation and rules in the Sectional Titles Act, the Management Rules and the Conduct Rules of the scheme. Amongst their other duties, the Trustees manage the Body Corporate’s funds, enforce the rules and resolve conflict to the best of their ability.

Major decisions regarding the Scheme are made by the Body Corporate, usually at the annual general meeting (AGM), or at a special general meeting (SGM). At these meetings, matters that affect the Scheme are discussed, budgets are approved, rules can be changed and trustees are appointed. Each

References: http://www.angor.co.za/news/understanding-sectional-titleterminology-body-corporate/ http://www.sectionaltitlecentre.co.za/faqs.aspx http://www.bizcommunity.com/Article/196/568/161017.html

tenance costs, wages and salaries, gardening, cleaning and security costs, and any water and electricity consumed on the common property, and the PQ system generally ensures a fair apportionment, with the owners of bigger sections that consume more of the common resources paying higher levies. However, buyers should be aware that the levies in a specific complex may be calculated differently if the owners have passed a special resolution to that effect and had it approved by the Ombud, or if the original developer of the complex assigned values to each section that differed from the actual PQs. In addition, garages or storerooms that are registered as separate sections will mean additional levy payments, so you need to check on that as well. And lastly, you must find out how big the complex’s reserve fund is. The STSMA provides that every ST scheme must have a reserve fund equal to at least 25% of the scheme’s total annual levy budget, and that if it does not, the owners in the scheme must add 15% to their total levy budget each year until it reaches this minimum, and preferably a higher level. Your share of a required reserve fund contribution could thus make quite a difference to your monthly budget. - realnet.co.za

19 - 25 June 2018

A fresh new look for CTM Hermanus

So what is it that sets CTM apart? It all goes back to 1983, when CTM pioneered a new concept in tile retailing, bringing exceptional levels of style and design within easy reach of everyday South African consumers. In 1995 the company expanded to include baths, basins, toilets, showers, cabinets, taps, related tools, adhesives and tile care products. What started as an innovative way to sell tiles, turned into South Africa’s most popular, one-stop home style shop.

TM Hermanus has undergone a dramatic revamp over the last six weeks and boasts a spankingnew look to offer customers an even better shopping experience. This well-known and trusted tile and bathroom brand, the biggest in South Africa, has been in Hermanus for 18 years; the store first opened in 2000 in the newly established Business Park and was enlarged in 2008. Manager Morkel Langenhoven, who has been with CTM since 1996, settled in Hermanus seven years ago and will be taking over as franchisee next month. “Nothing will change much, except that I will now own CTM Hermanus,” he says, while praising CTM’s wellestablished support structures and systems. “I eat, sleep and dream CTM,” he laughs, adding that his wife Selma also works at the store in Business Management Optimisation.

THE CTM HERMANUS TEAM: At the back, from left are Raymond Bhojana, Sivuyile Ngwevela, Marvin Skermand, Luvuyo Xalabile, Morkel Langehoven (owner) and Granville Koert. In front are Portia Danster, Quentin Philander, Wendy Peterson and Selma Langehoven.

Today CTM is the leading specialist retailer in this market. With over 80 stores throughout South Africa and Africa, they buy more tiles and bathroomware products than any other retailer – and it is this bulk buying power means that enables CTM to offer a wider selection of products and pass the massive savings on to the consumer.

The couple has two children, a daughter in Grade 7 and a son in Grade 10, and the family enjoys the scenic beauty and the lifestyle in Hermanus even more than Melkbosstrand, where they were living before migrating over the mountain.

The quality and value for money on offer at CTM Hermanus makes it the perfect destination for anyone looking to renovate or build their dream home, including property developers and design professionals.

His capable and motivated staff members also feel like family, says Morkel. “I know it sounds cheesy, but we work together every day and have come to know one another very well. Their welfare is important to me.”

Situated in Adam Road in the Hermanus Business Park, the store is conveniently located in close proximity to major residential and shopping hubs. The store houses a world of style inspiration under one roof – putting a

complete design solution at the fingertips of all customers, whatever their tastes and needs. Nowhere else would you ever expect to see world-class design from leading international brands such as Franke sitting comfortably next to a home-grown favourite like Kilimanjaro Tiles, which in turn matches perfectly with the Italian quality and perfection of Tivoli Taps. CTM’s ever-growing portfolio of stylish brands cater for every look, season and application, whether you’re into nature-inspired tones, flashy bathroom bling or toned-down modern contemporary sophistication. More brands to look out for include ELF Laminates, Sterling Sinks, CrystalTech Showers and Stonewall Cladding. New additions to CTM Hermanus’ designer product line-up that are guaranteed to impress are the Galleria Mosaics and Origins wood-look tiles. They’re locally manufactured, which makes them eco-friendly and extremely pocket friendly – two considerations that are definitely high on most people’s shopping lists. CTM Hermanus is open seven days a week. Come and view the wide product range on display in their new-look store, where Morkel and his knowledgeable and friendly sales staff are always on hand to assist and advise you. – Hedda Mittner

19 - 25 June 2018

FINE AIM Shöne van der Walt, Thys van Niekerk, Stephan Landsberg and Craig Hurn in action during the Field Archery Championships held in Hermanus.

Top archers in action in Hermanus Hermanus Archery proudly hosted the Western Cape Provincial Field Archery Championships during the weekend of 9 and 10 June.

Greyton, led the ladies pack and Thys van Niekerk from Langebaan shot the best score in the men’s division.

The championships were especially competitive as the top archers in the country are currently in a seeding race to determine the Protea team that will represent South Africa at the World Field Archery Champs in October.

Field Archery takes place on an outdoor range consisting of 28 butts placed at strategic points. A total of 112 Arrows per day are shot over distances ranging from 11 – 80 yards. Cubs and juniors compete over shorter distances, according to age-group. The Hermanus Archery Club hosts a club shoot every 4th Sunday of the month and interested persons are welcome to phone Marietjie on 083 276 7886 for more information.

Archers from as far as Rustenburg, Pretoria and Bloemfontein attended the two-day shoot on the range. Current World Field Champ and 4 times world record holder, Jane Dohlhoff from

Norman Hough, Zelda Erasmus and Nick Erasmus recently took part in the South African Masters Athletics (SAMA) championships in Bloemfontein and between these three Whalers athletes they obtained 17 medals. Norman (M 70-74) achieved four gold medals – for shotput, hammer throw, weight throw and throws pentathlon; silver for javelin and bronze for discus throw. Zelda Erasmus (W 65-69) was awarded five gold medals – for hammer throw, discus throw, javelin, weight throw and throws pentathlon; and one silver for shotput. Nick Erasmus (M 65-69) received five silver medals – for shotput, hammer throw, weight throw, discus throw and throws pentathlon. National colours was also awarded to Norman (middle), Zelda (right) and Monica Nel (left). For any enquiries regarding masters athletics, Leo Benning can be contacted on 028 316 4960 or 071 014 2723

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19 - 25 June 2018

Helping boys become the men they are meant to be

he motto of The Mentoring Project is ‘We invest in children because children matter. They are our future, the future of our country’.

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HELPING Hand Sponsored by Hermanus

Founded in October last year by Herman Breedt, a pastor with the Every Nation Church Group, The Mentoring Project (TMP) is aimed at mentoring fatherless children through educational work centres at schools. Herman closed his construction business after 22 years to dedicate himself full-time to preach-ing, counselling, and running community projects such as TMP. I met up with him at Lukhanyo Primary, where he works with the Grade 7 boys, more than half of whom are growing up in single-parent households and do not have fathers to look up to as role models. “Mothers, grandmothers, sisters and aunts are carrying the full weight of parenting in the lives of children whose fathers are absent,” says Herman. “These households are taking strain with singleparent income, involvement, discipline and encouragement. “Every child has the fundamental right to grow up with two parents to help launch them into life – a life that is already filled with so many challenges. Without a father even this basic right is out of reach for most and the challenges become almost insurmountable.” Herman also points out that boys from absent-father homes are five times more likely to drop out of school and get involved with substance abuse and gangsterism. “The devastating effects are clearly visible in most surveys done across our nation and the world. TMP wants to stop this destructive social trend, for the sake of the future wellbeing of our children and the overall wellbeing of our community.” As an after-school programme, TMP creates learning spaces where, Herman says, “we talk, laugh, play, learn and exercise together; we plant vegetables, dance and paint, and during these constructive times together deep foundational values are established and reinforced.” The life skills modules addressed by the programme include physical, mental, spirit-

Herman Breedt with secretary Asanda and the principal, Morris Tshabalala of Lukhanyo Primary School. Herman mentors the school’s Grade 7 boys and regularly takes them on after-school excursions (photos right). ual and sexual aspects. “Single mothers are in desperate need of someone to support them in raising their sons. All these boys need is a man in their lives, someone who can spend quality time with them. As it is, schools are crowded and teachers are already overwhelmed. We need members of society to come on board to help with this important task.” Herman quotes some shocking national statistics on education: Of the 1 180 000 children who started Grade 1 in 2006, only 620 000 were in the matric class of 2017. Of those, 401 000 passed matric, with 232 000 qualifying for tertiary education. Only half of those complete their studies, and of the 116 000 graduates only about 10% are adequately trained for the workforce. “Over 1 million children are in need of alternative skills training centres,” says Herman. “With our after-school mentorship programmes we aim to fill that gap. TMP takes hands with local schools and uses the avenues of education, technology, art and sport to develop critical life and leadership skills.” As an example, Herman showed me the computer centre at Lukhanyo Primary School, where dozens of computers and tablets received from the WCED were gathering dust for

two years simply, says Herman, “because no-one knew what to do with them”. With Herman’s help, the staff have now been trained and the computer centre is fully operational. He is very grateful for the assistance they have received from the WCED, which also sponsors two assistants and a 20MB fibre optic line. But TMP needs the help of the community and local businesses, says Herman. ”Social development is not just a buzzword. It must be a necessary partnership between local businesses and NGO’s. Nongovernmental and Non-profit organisations are critical players in the field to assist society and government at large in creating a better living space for all.” Although at present TMP is focused on fatherless boys, Herman says they also plan to involve girls in their programmes in the near future. “The bottom line is that if we want healthy adults in society, we need to cultivate healthy children. In order to do this we must develop a common goal and work together towards community upliftment through education and assist our local disadvantaged schools to function optimally in order to give our children the best possible education.” The most sustainable financial

model for TMP is to establish partnerships, says Herman. “Small contributions from local businesses on a monthly basis will enable TMP to perform its daily task in the communities and schools. Our partners will be informed about our activities every month and the progress we have made as, together, we share the joy of intervention, upliftment and transformation, and celebrate the changes in our children’s lives.” Businesses have the two options of either setting up a recurring payment via internet banking for an amount they feel comfortable with, to be paid monthly on the day of their choice; or committing to an amount for which TMP will send a monthly invoice, to be paid at their convenience. The Mentoring Project South Africa is a registered NPC (Number 2017 / 313 023 / 08) to engage in Public Benefit. Banking Details: The Mentoring Project SA, FNB Bank, Acc No 627 114 78 223, Branch code 250 655 Herman Breedt can be contacted on 083 225 8119 or herman@thementoringproj ect.co.za or via Facebook: thementoringproject – Hedda Mittner

19 - 25 June 2018

The world’s greatest sporting spectacle kicks off in Russia

he eyes of the sporting world are focused on events in Russia, as 32 of the best football teams vie for the ultimate prize and the honour of lifting the FIFA World Cup. This highlight on the global calendar is held every four years and kicked off in Moscow on Thursday 14 June. It will culminate with the grand finale on 15 July. There have already been a few surprises: Russia defeated Saudi Arabia 5-0 in the opening game on Thursday. On Friday Portugal and Spain drew 3-3, with Ronaldo scoring another hattrick, while Iceland, competing for the first time in the World Cup, drew 1-1 on Saturday against a favourite, Argentina. In another shocker Mexico beat Germany 1-0 on Sunday. The FIFA World Cup was first held in 1930, when FIFA President Jules Rinet decided to stage an international football tournament. This inaugural edition in 1930 was contested by 13 teams invited by FIFA. The competition has experienced successive expansions and the format remodelled to its 32 team final, which is preceded by a two-year qualifying process involving over 200 teams around the world.

Offside

The match between Botrivier and Hawston, scheduled to take place on 8 June, was postponed due to the unrest in the Botrivier area.

Tony O’Hagan

After 6 rounds, Botrivier are lying 3rd on the log but have only played 4 games as opposed to those leading the competition, who have completed 6 matches in the Overberg section of the Boland Grand Challenge. After 6 weeks of competition, Botrivier are the only unbeaten team in the league.

The first official international football match was played in 1872 between Scotland and England and football was rarely played outside of Great Britain. By 1900 football had gained ground around the world and was admitted as an Olympic sport between amateur teams. In 1914, FIFA agreed to recognise the Olympic tournament as a “world football championship for amateurs” and took responsibility for organising the event. This led the way for the first intercontinental football competition at the 1920 Summer Olympics won by Belgium. Uruguay won the tournament in 1924 and 1928. In 1928 FIFA and the International Olympic Committee disagreed over the status of amateur players and so football was dropped from the Olympic Games. FIFA then organised the first World Cup in Uruguay and 93 000 spectators in Montevideo watched

Botrivier still the team to beat in Boland rugby

Safcol (Grabouw) top the standings with 21 points after 6 games, followed by Gansbaai on 20 points, also 6 games completed. Botrivier are on 18 points after 4 matches. Hawston (4th) and Atlantics, Hermanus (6th) will need to improve to become contenders for the title. Atlantics, in particular, are struggling this year with 2 wins and 4 losses, obviously feeling the effects of the exodus of players who are running out for the Botrivier team. Some interesting match-ups lie ahead before teams for the play-offs are decided.

Chritiano Ronaldo in action. Uruguay defeat Argentina 4-2 and become the first nation to win the World Cup. The current event taking place in Russia is the 21st edition of the World Cup and will culminate with the finals on 15 July. This is the first World Cup held in Eastern Europe. Of the 32 teams competing, 20 will be making back-toback appearances following

the last tournament in 2014. Iceland and Panama will be making their first appearances at a FIFA World Cup. A total of 64 matches will be played at 12 venues located in 11 cities. The final will be played at the Luzhniki Stadium in Moscow. The competition is divided into 8 groups, consisting of 4 teams in each group. The top 2 teams in each group will qualify for the knockout

stages, commencing with the round of 16, followed by the quarter-finals, semi-finals and the final. The honour of listing the FIFA World Cup is the ultimate prize but the prize money for the winners is a further incentive for the players. The winning team takes home $38m, runners-up $28m, third place $24m and fourth place $22m.

So, who will emerge victorious? The top ranked teams in order are; Brazil (5 times winner), Germany (4 times winner), France (once), Spain (once) and Belgium. However, upsets are the order of the day at the World Cup, so predictions are not easy to make. An exciting month of World Cup football is on the menu for the fans.

19 - 25 June 2018

Unique opportunity for trail runners in brand new series

he Cape Whale Coast will be the host of a brandnew trail running series that will be hosted on wine farms in the area over a period of five months. The Vine to Valley Run my Wines Trail Running Series is the brainchild of well-known local sporting event organiser, Bianca le Roux of Coastline Events. Bianca and her team have been the driving force the last few years behind the popular Summer Music Colour Run hosted all along the Cape south coast and Hermanus every December. “We have seen the demand for sport tourism growing over the last few years and the idea of hosting a trail run series in our beautiful area was kind of a nobrainer. Everyone who loves running and keeping fit would have the opportunity to run some of the most spectacular routes our region has to offer. To boot, it will be hosted on some of the best wine farms,” says an enthusiastic Bianca. The Vine to Valley series will be hosted on Newton Johnson on 11 August, Bosman Family Vineyard on 29 September, Sumaridge on 27 October, La Vierge on 24 November, Hermanus-

pietersfontein on 8 December and finally on Benguela Cove on 15 December. “One always hears of the unique terroir of the Hemelen-Aarde Valley that instils in our wines their distinctive taste. In the same way the terroir lends itself to exceptional wines it also affords runners a unique opportunity to experience and explore the areas where our wines are grown and harvested. In addition, the majestic vistas itself will make this series an unforgettable experience.” According to Bianca it does not matter whether you are driven to pursue an active and healthy lifestyle or just want to have a fun outing, traversing the undulating landscapes that will unfold in front of you will surpass your expectations. “Imagine leaving your footprints on wine farms that have not only been producing wine for generations but also bring you some of the top awardwinning wines, which you will be able to taste. “As an added incentive, if you complete the entire series and you will receive a bottle of these superlative wines from each farm. The first 10 runners

on the day will also receive a medal.” She says the different farms will offer 5 km, and in some instances, 10 km trails. There will also not be any bleary eyes on the start line either, as the run starts at 9:00. Afterwards you can enjoy food, drinks and of course wine with your family and friends while the kids get to play. “Caring for the community is of paramount importance and R20 of your R120 entry ticket will go towards supporting local initiatives such as the Pebbles School Project, Hermanus Child Welfare, local farm school projects, Ella Gordon Foundation and an early childhood development centre. “You could even make a weekend of it as SafariNow will be generously giving each runner R300 off their next booking at any destination of their choice,” says Bianca. For more information send an e-mail to info@coastlineevents.co.za or call 082 075 7477. Follow them at Vine to Valley Run my Wines Trail Series on Facebook.

Bianca le Roux at the annual Summer Music Colour Run.

Enter at http://qkt.io/VineToValley

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19 - 25 June 2018

MY Schools

Hermanus schools shine at UCT Maths Competition

everal youngsters from Hermanus schools were among the 8 000 learners from 170 schools in the Western Cape who travelled to Cape Town on 19 April to participate in the annual UCT Maths Competition – the biggest competition of its kind in one venue in the Southern Hemisphere. The results from this competition were announced at the prize-giving ceremony on Friday 8 June in the Baxter Theatre in Cape Town. The bestperforming learner from Hermanus was Jean Weight, a Grade 8 student at Curro Hermanus, who received a Gold Certificate (top ten in his grade). A home-schooler from Stanford, Dirk Troost (Grade 11) achieved the 40th position in his grade, while Tinotenda Tsatsa (Grade 8) received a School Prize for the best performer from Qhayiya Secondary School in Zwelihle. Tinotenda had travelled to the prize giving with the school’s UCT Maths Competition liaison teacher, Thandisile Mfengu, and they were pleasantly surprised when Qhayiya was also awarded the Moolla Trophy for a notable performance by a school in a disadvantaged community. Qhayiya entered the competition for the first time last year.

Hermanus High riders up for the challenge Six boys from Hermanus High School participated in the Spur Schools Mountain Bike League which was held at the Southey Vines Cycle Park in Somerset West on Saturday 9 June. About 60 learners from several schools in the Western Cape participated in the various divisions. The wet and muddy conditions made it a challenge indeed and one of the boys, Juan Erasmus (Junior Men), had to withdraw from the event due to mechanical problems just after the start of the race. In the Sub-Junior Division for Boys U14, Myburgh Serdyn, who also experienced technical problems early in the race but was able to continue and caught up well, attained the 18th position while Christiaan de Wet came in 17th and Christo Claassen 12th. In the Men’s Youth Division for Boys U15, Daniel de Vynck attained 12th position, while Etienne Prak and Adriaan Duminy came in 26th and 35th position respectively in the Men’s Junior Division for 16 years and over.

Mr Mfengu, Qhayiya SS UCT Maths Competition liaison teacher, and Ms Jimlongo, acting Principal of Qhayiya Secondary School, proudly holding the Moolla Trophy for a notable performance by a school from a disadvantaged community. Of the 19 learners who entered, three obtained Merit Certificates (top 200 in their grade). This year 38 learners were entered but, because of the unrest in Zwelihle shortly before the competition, it was difficult for them to prepare. Nevertheless the learners worked very hard to be ready for this challenging competition. “Amid the protest actions during the Easter holidays, the principal brought them by bus to Onrus, where they met in the Dutch Reformed Church hall for a practice session,” says Norval Geldenhuys, a retired maths teacher who also lent a

Jean Weight from Curro Hermanus was awarded a Gold Award as one of the Top 10 performers in Grade 10 at the 2018 UCT Maths Competition.

helping hand. “Local residents sponsored meals and donated past papers and UCT practice booklets.” According to Norval, the Qhayiya matrics also held their own placard march "to show the whole community that we are suffering when it comes to education because of the protests". Thankfully the unrest subsided and the whole team of 38 learners was able to travel to Cape Town for the competition. Now that they have performed so well, the learners are already preparing for next year’s competition. They have formed a WhatsApp group that circulates one

maths problem a week to solve. For every four problems solved, the learner in school uniform gets to collect a small prize at a local business, sponsored by generous locals who want to encourage the learners' mathematical development. The Business of the month of June is Whalecoast Dried Fruit and Nuts and a private donor. If there are any other businesses within walking distance from Zwelihle who would like to become a Business of the Month to encourage these learners, they can contact Mr Mfengu at tara.mfengu@gmail.com

After the first of four league races Hermanus High School is in 8th position among the Western Cape schools. The best performing group was the school’s U14s who came fourth in their division. The next events will take place on 4 August at Bloemendal Wine Estate in Durbanville; 25 August at Montana High School in Worcester; and 15 September at Paul Roos Gymnasium in Stellenbosch.

Hermanus High’s three Men’s Junior riders, Adriaan Duminy, Etienne Prak and Juan Erasmus were covered in mud after the race.

The Village news 19 June - 25 June

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