The Village NEWS 24 June - 1 July 2020

24 JUNE 2020

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Bypass back on the cards Writer De Waal Steyn

be added,” the spokesperson said.

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According to the new report an investigation into the need for and possible alignments of a bypass along the Hermanus mountainside indicated that, taking historical traffic growth and future land use planning into account, the future annual traffic growth rates are estimated to be 1.5% for local traffic and 2.5% for external traffic.

he Hermanus bypass is dead, long live the bypass. After no news on the proposed Hermanus CBD bypass project was received for almost two years, the project suddenly made a comeback last week when an amended final Environmental Impact Assessment (EIA) report on the controversial bypass, that has been on the cards since 2009, was released by consulting engineering firm SRK. This amended final report follows the rejection of the final EIA report in March 2018 by the Provincial Department of Environmental Affairs and Development Planning (DEA&DP) and a statement by Mayor Dudley Coetzee at the time that the council is not in support of the bypass until such time as the problems of getting into and leaving town on the R43 are solved.

On Monday Coetzee said the municipality stands by its statement that “before we look at bypassing the CBD it is more important to improve the traffic flow coming into Hermanus from Bot River and leaving the town towards Stanford”.

The newly released amended final EIA is aimed at addressing the reasons that were given by the DEA&DP for rejecting the report.

At the time, a spokesperson for the department said the report does not “adequately address all the pertinent issues and will require further revised or additional information before further consideration will be given to it”.

Hermanus has seen an increase in visitors and weekenders over the past few weeks who come to see the whales and hike among our fynbos (see P3 for more). PHOTO: Susan Skog

“Should new information be submitted in the revised EIA report it will be subject to a further round of public participation, during which time additional comments and objections can

“The anticipated traffic growth justifies a CBD bypass that supports the Hermanus CBD Regeneration Framework currently investigated by the municipality. Updated traffic counts in January 2020 indicate an average traffic growth rate of 5.3% per annum in the morning peak hour and 8.2% per annum in the evening peak hour over the last 6.3 years.

Traffic on Mountain Drive increased on average by 7.7% per annum,” states the report.

Should the bypass be built, the Western Cape Department of Transport and Public Works (WCDTPW) would proclaim the bypass as the new provincial trunk road and de-proclaim Main Road (R43 section through the Hermanus CBD), which would become a municipal road providing local accessibility.

According to the report, the key aims of Hermanus CBD Bypass implementation are to support the implementation of the CBD Renewal Framework; provide a mobility route for traffic between the eastern and western parts of Hermanus; improve accessibility, traffic flow and safety in the CBD; enable business development within the CBD by optimising accessibility, parking and non-motorised access; provide improved access to schools, sports fields, the farmers’ market and other institutions in the area along Jose Burman Avenue; and reduce traffic on the local roads currently serving as a de facto CBD bypass.

Continues on P2

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75% of comments object to the bypass From P1 “The purpose of the current exercise is to secure a future road alignment to minimise future impacts on property owners and the environment. In this instance, a bypass alignment could have and should have been proclaimed at least 20 years ago. The failure to do so may contribute to current concerns about the project,” states the report.

It is proposed that the road will function as a regional route and consist of a single carriageway, i.e. one lane in each direction. Vehicle lanes will be 3.7 m wide with a 1.8 m wide shoulder in each direction, within a road reserve of 25 m.

Where cut and fill or noise barriers are required, the road reserve could extend to 30 m. The proposed speed limit is 60 km/h. A combined 3 m wide pedestrian walkway and cycle path is also proposed alongside the road on appropriate sections of the bypass, and it is proposed that all retaining structures are constructed with natural sandstone rock.

The following alternatives were investigated in the EIA report:

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A northern alignment that runs just north of and adjacent to the existing Mountain Drive, then aligns north of the cemetery and sports complex, then leads south, along the eastern edge of the sports complex between the cricket oval and the Generation School and then joins Fairways Avenue; A southern alignment that runs just north of and adjacent to the existing Mountain Drive, then runs south of the cemetery and follows Jose Burman Drive between the high school and the sports complex. A pedestrian underpass under the bypass is proposed in the eastern portion of this section, while a pedestrian and vehicular underpass is proposed in the western portion of this bypass section. This implies that the road is raised

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along this section. The road then runs south along the eastern edge of the high school and joins Fairways Avenue; and A no-go alternative that entails no change to the status quo. Traffic volumes are expected to increase over time irrespective of whether the Hermanus CBD bypass is built or not. In line with trends already observed, it is also expected that increasing congestion in the CBD will cause more motorists to use the Mountain Drive – Jose Burman Drive – Fairways Avenue route as a de facto bypass.

The report states that comments from 155 stakeholders were received on the final EIA report, as well as two petitions. “Some 75% of comments object to the bypass on the basis that it was not needed or supported, while 3% of stakeholders who commented think the bypass is needed.”

In this respect the traffic study, compiled for the DTPW as part of the project motivation, was peer reviewed in February / March 2020. The independent reviewer concludes that “adequate evidence has been provided to indicate that the CBD bypass proposal is a realistic solution to what will in time be needed to provide mobility for through traffic as well as creating the opportunity for the CBD to have a more pedestrian-friendly environment.

“In the absence of a bypass, over time congestion will occur with increased frequency both in the CBD and on Mountain Drive. As the opportunity to secure a desired future could well be lost if certain parcels of land are developed, the recommendations … (to build a bypass)… are considered valid. Monitoring of growth rates over time will obviously be important in determining the timing of implementation, assuming the project obtains environmental approval by the DEA&DP.” Many developments have and are taking place in Hermanus and these are steadily reducing

the options to implement a bypass in the future. As such the DTPW wants to secure a route through an Environmental Authorisation and subsequent road proclamation.

The upgrade of the CBD Relief Road (Royal Street from the circle at the old synagogue to the circle at the Station Mall) was most often suggested by stakeholders as an alternative.

This is not seen as viable, based on the extent of expropriation that would be required if the road was widened to the standard desired by the DTPW. This would result in extensive socio-economic impacts due to disruption of central Hermanus. The municipal Directorate of Infrastructure and Planning is also on record as not supporting the upgrading and proclamation of the Relief Road as the future provincial road, states the report.

For this reason, only the originally proposed northern and southern bypass alignment alternatives were deemed technically reasonable and feasible by the applicant.

While it is not desirable to reduce the size of protected areas, the DTPW motivates that this project is proposed in a specific context – Hermanus has limited space between the mountains and the sea, and a bypass route was identified on this alignment in planning documentation before the Fernkloof Nature Reserve (FNR) was extended down to Mountain Drive, and the department still considers this route to be the only feasible route for the bypass.

According to the report, the municipality has twice submitted official letters on letterheads stating support for the bypass, signed by the Director: Infrastructure and Planning in 2017 and the Municipal Manager in 2019. “SRK has included these letters with all other comments submitted during the EIA process. At no time during the EIA process has another official or the council withdrawn a letter that was submitted by the Overstrand Municipality, or instruct-

ed SRK to disregard any of those submissions.

“The fundamental decision is whether to allow the development. SRK is of the opinion that on purely ‘environmental’ grounds (i.e. the project’s potential socio-economic and biophysical implications), and considering the findings of peer reviews, the northern alternative could be approved. Approval should be contingent on the investigation and implementation of essential mitigation measures and engagement with affected parties during a detailed design to agree plans to relocate the Hermanus Country Market, retain connectivity in the schools and sports complex and precise methods to mitigate noise.

Mayor Coetzee said yesterday that the current upgrading of the R43 at Hawston was necessitated by the new housing development and does not form part of an upgrade from Fisherhaven to Sandbaai.

In August 2018 then DTPW Minister Donald Grant, said his department had set aside R150 million for the upgrading of the R43 to a dual carriageway between Fisherhaven and Sandbaai. Work on the environmental impact assessments of this project, which has been registered as a separate project to the infamous bypass, was set to start in March 2019.

The Fisherhaven to Sandbaai upgrade is in addition to the R683 million that has been budgeted for the widening of the R43 between Hermanus, Stanford and Gansbaai, which is currently underway.

For written comments to be included in the submission to the DEA&DP, they must reach the following contact person no later than 20 July 2020: Kelly Armstrong at SRK Consulting via email: karmstrong@srk.co.za or Postnet Suite #206, Private Bag X18, Rondebosch, 7701, South Africa. SRK can be called on 21 659 3060.

Pandemic reaching its peak in province The Covid-19 pandemic seems to be racing towards its peak as the total of cases in the Western Cape breached the 50 000 mark during the weekend and the provincial death toll on Monday climbed to 1 424.

Although an exact date for the peak cannot be determined, Western Cape Premier Alan Winde says, some epidemiological models, including the National Covid-19 Epi Model (NCEM) which is relied on by the national government for forecasting, have estimated that the province will expe-

rience its peak soon.

“We are experiencing increased pressure in our hospitals. At the same time, the economy is opening further, with personal care services having re-opened this weekend and other sectors expected to open soon. Now is therefore the time to be extra vigilant to slow the spread."

Winde warned that according to the data, age and underlying conditions such as diabetes and high blood pressure present the greatest risk for

becoming seriously ill or dying. “People who fall into vulnerable groups must take additional precautions to protect themselves – staying at home as much as possible.”

On Monday, the Western Cape had almost 14 000 active cases of Covid-19. The term "active case" refers to a patient who is currently infected.

A case is considered closed when a person has recovered, or in the event of a death.

“While recoveries significantly out-

number active cases in the province, we must still do everything we can to ensure that we are keeping safe, as those 14 000 people have the potential to infect many more people in their families and communities.

“As a province, we are continuously re-assessing the data available to us to give us an indication of when the virus peak will occur. These models are predictions based on the best available data at the time, and it is impossible to pinpoint exactly when this will happen but by taking additional care now,

and managing the number of active cases, we can help to slow the spread and help to save lives,” Winde said.

With more businesses reopening this week he urged business owners to always act with the best interests of their clientele and their staff at heart and abide by the restrictions and regulations put in place to ensure maximum safety. “This means ensuring that facilities are available for hand washing or sanitising and that surfaces are regularly cleaned to avoid your business becoming an infection site.

The whales are back!

Writer Hedda Mittner

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n a time filled with so much bad news, the good news is whale season has officially started.

Not only has there been an increase in whale sightings reported on social media, but our very own whale crier, Bravo Sobazile is also back on his post to raise the alarm on his kelp horn when whales have been spotted from the shore.

“Our town has been a lot busier over the past three weekends,” says Frieda Lloyd, manager of Cape Whale Coast Tourism. “We are definitely seeing an increase in domestic travel and out-of-towners with holiday homes are escaping to Hermanus for weekends. There has been an uptick in retail trade and restaurant deliveries, and many visitors are going hiking or looking for whales. Bravo has reported some good sightings.”

With our local whale-boat and shark-cage diving operators still unable to leave the harbour under the current Level 3 lockdown regulations, however, it is impossible to know how many southern right whales have made the annual migration to Walker Bay this year.

Dr Els Vermeulen, Research Manager of the Whale Unit of the University of Pretoria’s Mammal Research Institute, based at the Hermanus Whale Museum, says she is hoping that the aerial survey conducted annually in October will shed more light on recent findings.

After a bumper year in 2018, the whale count for last year’s season again revealed a decline in the numbers of especially single males.

According to Els, this is a trend that has become more pronounced since 2009.

By analysing the data of whale tissue, the latest research results have shown that the isotopic composition of the southern right whales’ diet has changed over the past two decades. “What we can confirm now is that the whales have shifted location in order to source food. The reason for this change in their feeding grounds could be due to various factors such as climate change and

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This exuberant photograph of a breaching southern right whale was taken off Gearing’s Point last week.

PHOTO: Paul Michael Wronsley

over-fishing.”

Els says that because of the whales’ deteriorating physical condition due to a lack of food, they may not all be strong enough to complete the full migratory journey. It also affects reproduction and whereas cows were calving every three years prior to 2009, they are now only giving birth every four to five years. Females migrate from the freezing waters of the Antarctic in order to give birth in the warmer waters around our southern coastline because that gives their calves a better chance of survival. During the years when they are not reproducing, however, the need to conserve energy might also lead to a lack of motivation to undertake the long journey.

Boat-based field work, including satellite tagging, has had to be put on hold due to the Coronavirus pandemic. This makes it difficult to determine how many southern right whales are out there at the moment, says Els. “If they are not coming close to shore, we may not be able to see them from land. So it’s hard to predict what kind of whale season we’ll have, but we are not expecting another ‘baby boom’ like in 2018, when we saw a record number of cow-calf pairs.”

Wilfred Chivell, founder of the Dyer Island Conservation Trust (DICT) and CEO of Marine Dynamics and Dyer Island Cruises, which offer sharkcage diving and whale-watching tours respectively in the Gansbaai area, says the Coronavirus pandemic has had a double impact on them.

“The income from our commercial enterprises is what funds the trust’s research and conservation efforts,” he says. “But with 85% of our clients

being international tourists, everything has come to a standstill. Not being able to go out to sea every day means that for the first time in 15 years we have not been able to keep up our daily monitoring. That is a lot of lost data.”

With fewer sightings of southern right whales and great white sharks over the past few years, Wilfred says that fortunately the humpback whales seem to be doing well. “We are very blessed in this region as whale watchers could be lucky enough to see three different whales in one day, including humpbacks, southern rights and Bryde’s whales.”

Although they have been able to keep up their conservation work with the African Penguin and Seabird Sanctuary (APSS), another of DICT’s projects, Wilfred says there is much more that needs to be done to protect our marine life. “But, for that, we need the tourists,” he says.

Eco-tourism plays a vital role in both the conservation and economy of our region and local operators are living in hope that the government will be putting measures in place to open up tourism as soon as possible.

It has been reported that plans are afoot to allow for domestic tourism very soon and international tourism

by September. These plans include a host of Covid-related rules and regulations to ensure the safety of tourists and locals.

What is for sure, is that seeing a whale breach on a clear and balmy winter’s day is just what one needs to lift the spirits and forget about the Coronavirus for a while.

Overstrand muni manager cleared of allegations Writer De Waal Steyn

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find no basis to support the allegations of misconduct levelled against the municipal manager, Coenie Groenewald and accordingly recommend that the allegations be dismissed.”

These were the findings of Adv Pieter Schalk Bothma in an investigation that was launched after a complaint was lodged in March by resident Anton Kruger, who is the administrator of several public participation sites on Facebook and a member of a group calling itself LiberTAS (Transparency, Accountability and Sustainability).

At a special council meeting convened on 9 March, it was unanimously recommended by all parties that while council found no evidence to support the allegations of misconduct by Groenewald, in the interest of openness and transparency a special investigator would be appointed.

The complaint alleged that, in accordance with the municipality’s Unauthorised, Irregular or Fruitless and Wasteful Expenditure Policy, Groenewald had “demonstrated poor judgement” in awarding a turnkey property development tender to the value of R600 million to construction group ASLA Devco, after the tender had initially been awarded to M5 Developments by the municipality’s Tender Adjudication Committee in 2007.

The complaint further stated that ratepayers’ money was spent wastefully in defending this decision in the ensuing court cases in both the Cape High Court and the Supreme Court of Appeal, both of which found against the decision made by Groenewald to award the tender to ASLA. In addition, LiberTAS argued that the appeal emphasised “how bad Groenewald’s judgement was” and that it was only done to “clear his name” at the expense of ratepayers.

The group further stated in its complaint that it wanted to know how much money had been spent on legal fees and demanded that Groenewald should reimburse the municipality.

In his report Bothma stated that the finalisation of this investigation was delayed by the Covid-19 pandemic, but that he had met with Groenewald on 12 June. “I have, however, not had the benefit of meeting with Kruger, or any other officer of LiberTAS, nor have I received any further submissions on their behalf,” said Bothma.

He listed more than 10 separate occasions between 14 May and 10 June on which he had tried to arrange meetings between him and Kruger.

On 10 June he was informed that LiberTAS no longer wished to meet with him, but that written submissions would be done. No submissions were received.

Bothma further stated in his report that the tender litigation appeared to have been a dispute between M5 and ASLA and that the municipality should be commended for the role it played in concluding a memorandum of understanding aimed at ameliorating any adverse effect the prosecution of the appeal may have had on the implementation of the tender.

The dismissal of the allegations against Groenewald comes shortly before the municipal manager’s retirement at the end of October this year. The name of the preferred candidate to replace him will be announced at the council meeting on 24 June.

A total of 28 applications were received for the position and after screening, three were invited to attend the evaluation and interview sessions for the post. One candidate withdrew from the interview session.

Mayor Dudley Coetzee is expected to conclude the terms and conditions of employment with the candidate in due course.

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What will the ‘new normal’ look like for restaurants?

Writer Hedda Mittner

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estaurant owners and their staff members are waiting with bated breath for detailed guidelines from the government on when and how they will be able to reopen.

This following President Cyril Ramaphosa’s announcement last week that not only sit-down restaurants, but also casinos, cinemas and theatres, accredited and licensed accommodation (with the specific exception of "home-sharing accommodation like Airbnb"), conferences and meetings for business purposes (with limitations on the number of people), personal care services and non-contact sports will now be allowed to resume.

At the time of going to print on Monday afternoon, however, these businesses were still waiting for clar-

ity and the only regulations that had been gazetted were those pertaining to personal care services (read more on P12).

Several local restaurateurs said the announcement had been so vague that they were unsure about how to plan for reopening. Some of the uncertainties included the issue of social distancing. “Will spacing tables 1.5m apart be adequate or do we need to put up partitions between tables?” was one of Anton Verhoogt of Fisherman’s Cottage’s questions.

“Will there be a limit on the number of diners and staff allowed on the premises at any one time, as was the case in the weeks preceding the lockdown?” was another question from Henri Grové from Fusion. And could the magic number of 50 apply again, as in the case of places of worship, regardless of the size of the venue?

“The government is in control and we have no other option but to wait and see,” was the philosophical attitude of Shane Sauvage of La Pentola. For him, the issue of alcohol is an important one, as a large percentage of restaurants’ income is derived from liquor sales. “If we can only serve wine with meals at certain hours on certain days, then that’s a problem,” said Shane, for whom home deliveries and take-aways were not a solution.

at home with a bottle of wine they bought at the liquor store. Among the many challenges they are facing, this could be a make-or-break factor for an industry that has been dealt a devastating blow.

in South Africa. In an interview with 702 last week, RASA CEO Wendy Alberts said that restaurants had been decimated, with these employees being some of the hardest hit in South Africa.

Local chefs and restaurateurs are all hoping for good news soon. “These are dark times and the industry is really in trouble,” said Shane. “In all my 34 years in hospitality I’ve never experienced anything as bad as this.”

“Our industry is long past crippled and we have been calling out to the government for a very long time,” she said, adding that staff and food hygiene are already common-place in the industry, so it would be relatively easy to adapt for the Coronavirus.

“That’s just not what we do,” he said.

“With take-out you can’t guarantee a warm plate of quality food. I want people to come here and relax, to experience our brand of hospitality and fine dining with premium wines while enjoying the view.”

Small Business Development Minister Khumbudzo Ntshavheni has reportedly said that the decision to open sit-down restaurants again after nearly three months of lockdown, was necessitated by a lack of relief funds to support businesses in the sector.

Several restaurateurs have expressed concern that if they are not allowed to serve wine, many customers might prefer enjoying their meal

The Restaurant Association of South Africa (RASA) estimates that restaurants employ around 800 000 people

All that is now desperately needed is for the protocols and guidelines to be announced before more businesses are forced to close their doors. And I’m sure there are many foodies out there ready to get out and support our local restaurants!

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It was all started by a mouse – Walt Disney Writer Elaine Davie

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f Mickey thought of himself as the world’s most famous mouse, in this neck of the woods another mouse runs him a close second. It is Pringle Bay’s Ticklemouse. Many of us will have seen its small, white, mouse-sized delivery vans scampering around our towns delivering the delectable cookies and rusks for which Ticklemouse is renowned.

In this case, the business wasn’t started by the mouse, though; it was started by Freya Stennett when she and her husband, Dave retired to Rooiels 15 years ago. They let two holiday flats below their house and because Freya wanted to make her guests feel welcome, she would bake a batch of biscuits and put them in each of the flats.

“Soon, returning visitors would say, ‘no biscuits, no booking’,” laughs Freya, “and then they would ask me to bake them another batch to take home with them; and then their friends started calling and asking if I could bake some for them, too. “Eventually, Dave thought we should give the biscuits a name and suggested Ticklemouse, his nickname as a baby.

It turned out to be a good choice, catchy and the right image.”

They thought they would try the biscuits out in the local village store, but soon they were getting orders from even further afield. Before they knew it, their house had been turned into a full-scale bakery. If they weren’t rolling out balls of dough, they were

icing and packing, under the beady gaze and periodic raids of the local baboon troop, which thought they had discovered manna from heaven.

Their first two products were crunchie nut biscuits and coconut bran rusks, but the fun was in experimenting with new recipes and trying them out on customers. The range currently consists of 10 varieties of rusks and 12 biscuit options, all with their characteristic country-style, home-baked quality.

In the meantime, their entire house had started to look like a messy mini-factory, says Freya and it became clear that they would need more suitable premises and some help with their burgeoning business.

“You realise how completely it has taken over your life when your wedding anniversary gift to each other is an industrial mixer,” she adds.

They found two rooms in Pringle Bay to accommodate the bakery, but with 10 staff members it felt a bit like packing sardines into a tin, and when she ended up burning the whole place down, she decided they should probably invest in purpose-built premises of their own.

Sadly Dave died unexpectedly and in 2008, Freya’s daughter Shaye and son-in-law Rainer Poewe bought into the business and Freya is no longer as actively involved in the factory as she once was. However, she continues to do the books for the business and because it was impossible for her to give up messy hands altogether, she has added a range of delicious,

Rainer Poewe is in charge of the Ticklemouse factory where 14 highly-trained ladies produce a range of to-die-for baked goods which are renowned throughout the Western Cape. PHOTO: Elaine Davie

wholesome preserves which once again come out of her home kitchen.

Shaye says she thinks the people of Pringle Bay are quite proud of Ticklemouse and they are certainly her most loyal and enthusiastic customers. The same goes for holiday-makers to the area. Nevertheless, their customer-base has grown exponentially over the years.

Apart from several retailers in Cape Town that stock their products, their reach extends right up the West Coast and along the Southern Cape Coast as far as George. Their three little Ticklemouse vans set off from Pringle Bay every morning with fresh deliveries across the Western Cape. Indeed, one of their strong selling points is the freshness of their products. (In any case, they fly off the shelves almost as soon as they’ve been unpacked!)

Although they do good business throughout the year, interestingly enough, Shaye says, other than the December holidays, their busiest time is usually the winter months. “People tend to be indoors a lot and they look for tasty treats to go with their mugs of warming coffee. My mom’s preserves are very popular then, too, as well as our fudge.”

Rainer is in charge of the production process. They now have 14 ladies in the factory, all of whom have been trained by them. “Many have been here from Day 1,” says Shaye, “and they know exactly what they are doing. In fact, every year we are visited by officials from the FSA to conduct

Shaye Poewe who together with husband Rainer have taken over the hands-on running of the Ticklemouse factory from her mother Freya in Pringle Bay. PHOTO: Supplied a very stringent audit of our safety and hygiene protocols and they do not issue a certificate of endorsement unless they are absolutely satisfied with what they find.”

“We’re very much part of the Pringle Bay community and our aim is to make sure my mom’s legacy continues to flourish here for a long time to come,” she adds.

Under RaIner’s guiding hand, the factory uses just under a ton of flour a week and produces an average of 600 packs of rusks and 12 600 biscuits a day. Shaye says they are incredibly proud of how the small business her mother started by happenstance has grown over the years, mainly through word-of-mouth recommendations.

One thing’s for sure, this family-owned business which runs on oiled wheels is certainly no Mickey Mouse operation.

Ticklemouse can be contacted on 028 273 8021 or mouse123@telkomsa.net. Their operating hours are Mon to Thurs: 08:00 – 16:00; Fri 08:00 – 14:00; Sat: 10:00 – 12:00.

Some of the Ticklemouse biscuits that we at The Village NEWS enjoy are Something Orange and Granny's Ginger Nuts (left), Peanut Crunch and Mint Crunch. The favourite Ticklemouse rusk is Wholewheat and Honey (above).

PHOTOS: Hedda Mittner

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FROM THE EDITOR

Turn adversity into opportunity The next edition of The Village NEWS will be available on 1 July 2020. The NEWS can be found at over 300 distribution points in the Overberg.

De Waal Steyn PUBLISHING EDITOR E: dewaal@thevillagenews.co.za T: 083 700 3319

Hedda Mittner CONTENT EDITOR E: hedda@thevillagenews.co.za T: 083 645 3928

During these trying times there are very few things that go according to plan and this uncertainty leaves us all with a great deal of stress and uneasiness.

Many of us are longing for a time when we can safely go about our daily business as normal, but we have to keep in mind that the effects of the pandemic will be with us for a very long time to come.

It is predicted that unless an effective vaccine becomes available, we will still need to wear masks for at least another year. This is not a happy prospect, but we have the

now three or four times the normal price, at least some folks are keeping their tills ringing and the home-fires burning. As Shakespeare wrote: Where there’s fire, there’s smokes.

ONLINE EDITOR E: raphael@thevillagenews.co.za T: 074 125 5854

Now, we all know that banning something often creates more demand.

Movies and books have glamorised the covert chicanery during America’s Prohibition era of the last century, when alcohol was outlawed. Result?

Bootlegging became almost a national sport as hill-billies and city-slickers alike set up moonshine stills and produced hooch which could easily substitute as paint-stripper or aeroplane fuel if packaged differently.

Elaine Davie SUB-EDITOR & JOURNALIST

Taylum Meyer PHOTOGRAPHER & PRODUCTION MANAGER E: taylum@thevillagenews.co.za T: 084 564 0779

Charé van der Walt MARKETING REPRESENTATIVE E: chare@thevillagenews.co.za T: 082 430 1974

Nickey Jackson MARKETING REPRESENTATIVE E: nickey@thevillagenews.co.za T: 079 408 7722

While these steps seem easy and straightforward, they actually become a little more difficult as more businesses reopen and more people are out and about. It almost feels as if the lockdown should have taken place in reverse, with Level 1 adopted in March and Level 5 when the peak is reached.

of losing their livelihoods. At the same time that we need to be more vigilant, we also need to spend more locally to help our businesses survive.

But the rationale of the lockdown was to delay the peak of the pandemic – a point we are now racing towards. So, as more activity is allowed, the more we must be vigilant.

The duality of the situation we find ourselves in becomes even more evident when we take into account the harsh economic realities of the pandemic. Revenue has plummeted and difficult decisions will need to be made in the coming weeks and months by many companies.

It is not an easy task to juggle all that is expected of us. But we will keep trying.

As President Cyril Ramaphosa said: “Let us put shoulder to the wheel and turn this adversity into opportunity.” We owe it to ourselves and to our neighbours.

It is estimated that 1.6 billion workers worldwide are in danger

This is the good NEWS – Ed

Nicotine dreams are made of this

Raphael da Silva

E: elaine@thevillagenews.co.za T: 084 343 7500

power to help curb the spread of the disease by simply following these simple steps: staying home as much as possible to avoid becoming infected, especially if you fall into one of the risk groups, practising good hygiene and social distancing, wearing a mask and avoiding gatherings.

By Murray Stewart murray.stewart49@gmail.com y the time of going to press, the wise old owl controlling our State of Disaster may still be treating us like naughty Grade 10 school kids for smoking. Well, whether the ban has been lifted or not, let’s pop open the bonnet and find out how the engine keeps running and belching smoke – without petrol, apparently.

The pub/tavern was replaced by the ‘speak-easy’ where this moonshine shone brightly on those behind its locked doors, and as the name implies, tongues loosened and folks still got legless anyway. However, the moon couldn’t have shone without the dubiously-connected cabals controlling these outlets. Like the Mafia for example, with a couple of strategic politicians chucked in as silent partners.

Those with a long-standing affair with Miss Nicky-T may well inhale through the mouth, but pay through the nose to satisfy the temptress.

Despite SARS losing billions in sin taxes, and with contraband smokes

Here in South Africa, both Madame Moonshine and Miss Nicky-T were locked up in the same cell for a while.

Then, strangely, they released the Madame, not only back into bottle stores but also as take-away from

B

restaurants, which wasn’t allowed before. But there’s talk of locking her up again, though…

Meanwhile back at the ranch, the Nicky-T fan club has sprung into action. Covert communications via social media and the good old telephone are established, and haggling between suppliers and distributors is rampant. The end user has no say – they just have to cough en betaal.

So, the supply chain is operating smoothly, but where do these illegal smokes come from and who makes them? A bouquet of questionable brands sneak in from neighbouring states, but local production is where things get a bit messy…

Among the contraband going up in smoke are never-heard-of-before brands like Premium, Phoenix, Red&Black, F1 and Kings, from various manufacturers like Carnilinx and Amalgamated Tobacco. And here, without mentioning names, the word Zuma pops up, with connections not only to a son of the Nkandla King, but also with the long association between the Minister of Cold Turkey herself and Adriano Mazotti, a self-confessed smoke-smuggler. But that’s another story…

Back to the addicts. Non-smokers will be horrified, but here are a few tips

we’ve picked up along the way. Firstly, if desperate, ditch any ideas you had about your dignity – it’s a messy business. Without shame, raid your/ neighbours’ ashtrays and dustbins for stompies. Those last couple of unsmoked centimetres when emptied out, make up a few extra ‘rollers’. Save the filters.

Mix this with a packet of pipe tobacco, also outlandishly priced, and some lavender or catnip – for a slight buzz, apparently. The problem is ‘papers’. Manufactured papers fit perfectly into a rolling machine, with a sticky edge to lick your creation tightly closed. But papers are rare as frog feathers, so now what?

The dilemma is securing your rollie so it doesn’t unravel like a burst boerewors. Spit only works in cowboy movies. Newspaper is too thick, so in prison we used the phonebook and also had access to another popular book with very fine paper, but moving on…

How about Pritt, sticky-tape or super-glue? (Unhealthy?) Or egg-white?

(Nutritious?) Envelopes have a sticky strip, and there’s… Oops, gotta go.

But how things have changed! Puffing tobacco is illegal now, but growing/smoking cannabis isn’t. Weird.

Best not to smoke at all though, nè?

WEEKLY WEATHER & DE BOS DAM LEVELS

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11°/19° Clear

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De Bos Dam 37.73%

Weekly Rainfall 1mm

Last week 37.62%

Last week 52mm

WEEKLY TIDE TABLES 11 208 audited weekly circulation

HIGH LOW HIGH LOW

05:08 11:15 17:34 23:43

High Low High Low

05:54 12:01 18:23

High Low High Low

Tides sourced by www.sanho.co.za

06:46 00:38 19:18 12:52

High Low High Low

07:45 01:42 20:20 13:52

High Low High Low

08:53 02:54 21:29 15:01

High Low High Low

10:09 04:09 22:37 16:16

High Low High Low

11:22 05:19 23:42 17:27

3

EL

TOTAL CASES AS OF 22 JUNE 2020:

OVERSTRAND BREAKDOWN OF CASES: TOTAL (ACTIVE)

WORLD: 9 081 145 SOUTH AFRICA: 97 302 WESTERN CAPE: 51 351 (52.77% of cases in SA) OVERBERG: 789

FISHERHAVEN: 6 (6) GANSBAAI: 85 (64) - 2 deaths HAWSTON: 19 (8) HERMANUS: 34 (19) KLEINMOND: 10 (6)

MT PLEASANT: 35 (25) - 1 death ONRUS: 18 (12) - 1 death SANDBAAI: 9 (4) STANFORD: 7 (6) VERMONT: 3 (0) ZWELIHLE: 190 (118) TOTAL: 416 (268) - 4 deaths

LAST WEEK'S TOTAL CASES: WORLD: 8 108 550 SOUTH AFRICA: 73 533 (22nd in the world) WESTERN CAPE: 44 143 OVERBERG: 447 OVERSTRAND: 217

OVERSTRAND

LOCKDOWN LEVEL:

LEV

COVID-19 DASHBOARD

7

www.thevillagenews.co.za

24 June 2020

LET'S TALK

Hermanus phoenix rises, again Hay-ho, here we go again. The amended Environmental Impact Assessment (EIA) for the CBD bypass resurfaced on 20 June, amid the hustle and bustle and endless uncertainties of Covid-19.

In what looks like a cynical piece of strategy, amid all the limitations of lockdown such as a lack of access to information (with libraries where the EIA is supposed to be available for perusal still closed, and public participation limited by the regulations on gatherings/meetings), the lucky folks of Hermanus have one month – due date 20 July – to consider the report.

The road builders press on regardless of the fact that according to public participation and petitions, it appears that 75% of participants were opposed to the bypass and 3% in favour. It also appears that they have been assured by the then fact that the Western Cape government had budgeted for such a by-pass. But what budget was that? The projected costs through all the previous reports were escalating day by day and that was a very long while back.

Meanwhile, Covid-19 has happened and the authorities are daily bewailing the lack of funds to fight the pandemic and that, in actual fact, our country, which unfortunately, some would say, includes

the Western Cape, is bankrupt.

So, are funds still available to build a bypass? Highly unlikely. Has the long drawn-out process of the project plus the revised EIA made it at all more feasible? Highly unlikely. Are the statistics that were collected and projections of future developments still valid, especially with the so-called new normal (whatever that is meant to be) taken into account?

Highly unlikely. Has the attitude of the inhabitants against the bypass changed?

Probably not, but a further survey will reveal all. If there is such a pot of gold set aside for a bypass, given current circumstances can it not be put to better use?

Highly likely.

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

Send your letters to dewaal@thevillagenews.co.za.

Panthera Africa needs your support As you probably know, our entire sanctuary has been in lockdown here in South Africa since 26 March – almost three months now, and counting. While we’re managing to make do with fewer helping hands by working harder and longer, we can’t manage without food for our animals.

It costs around R1 400 every month to feed one animal at Panthera Africa – and with 28 wild animals

in our care, you can imagine how quickly that adds up. I’m hoping you’ll reach out to our big cats today, because they urgently need your help.

Usually, our volunteer programme and the educational visits we host help to raise funds towards our total food bill. But we lost that with lockdown – which is why your kindness now will go a long way. Please will you support the animals through

At present, who are the only winners?

Why, the consultants of course, who, to be fair, were only carrying out instructions – but at a meeting held at the Fernkloof Hall aeons ago it was speculated that at that time the consultants' fees were heading for R10 million, way back then.

Our vital, energetic and pragmatic premier, Mr. Alan Winde should please sit up and take note.

Gert Cloete Voëlklip

Fernkloof main gate now open to public Being able to go for walks in our beautiful Fernkloof Nature Reserve has come as a huge relief for keen hikers and nature lovers alike. Last week the Overstrand Municipality announced that both the main gate of the Reserve and Rotary Drive would also be open from 20 June. The only area still closed to the public is the picnic area at the Fernkloof Gardens.

this tough time?

Whether you help for two weeks through a gift of R700 – or even one week, at R350 – whatever you can donate now will help put food into an animal’s belly! If you’re able to gift a whole month’s worth of feeding at R1 400 ($90, £70 or €80 including transfer fees), please let us know which animal you’d like to support. We’ll be sure to send you a picture of them enjoying a big, meaty bone with their meal! You can meet all the cats at pantheraafrica.com/the-pride/.

To make your gift safely online, go to pantheraafrica.com/donate/. All the big cats say a roaring thank you in advance for loving them enough to help. Thank you!

Cat and Lizaene Panthera Africa Big Cat Sanctuary

Traffic offices reopen The Hermanus Traffic Department on the corner of Short and Mussel Street, which was temporarily closed on Friday and Saturday for deep cleaning of the facility after a municipal staff member tested positive for Covid-19, reopened on Monday for all traffic-related transactions in Hermanus.

department earlier last week that they would not have come in contact with the staff member who had tested positive for COVID-19.

The Overstrand Municipality sent out a statement on Friday to reassure the members of the public who visited the offices of the traffic

The relevant official was working at the Roadworthy Testing Centre at the back of the facility, and is currently self-isolating.

The affected staff member was not part of the team who handles driver licence renewals or registration/ licensing of motor vehicles.

The statement further assures the public that appropriate safety protocols and workplace safety procedures are observed at all times while testing vehicles for roadworthiness.

In addition, all municipal buildings, workshops and offices are disinfected by the Disaster Management team on a weekly basis. Routine cleaning and sanitising of all offices and open spaces such as toilets and kitchens are done twice a day.

8

www.thevillagenews.co.za

24 June 2020

MY ENVIRONMENT Every week, readers from over 100 countries download nearly 2 000 copies of The Village NEWS digitally to read on their desktop, tablet or smartphone. Don't worry if you can't find a copy of the printed newspaper, you can always find them online on:

The shy and solitary Cape grysbok

By Anina Lee

issuu.com/dwaal

M

any local residents have seen this photograph on social media (right). It is a Marshall eagle with its newly caught prey – a Cape grysbok. The photograph was taken by a camera trap set up by the Landmark Foundation to track leopards in the Klein River Mountains.

If an eagle – even a big one like the Marshall – can prey on an antelope, rather than a dassie, that antelope must be quite small. And so it is.

According to my research, the Cape grysbok (Raphicerus melanotis) is a small antelope at only about 50 cm at the shoulder, weighing around 10 kg. The species is endemic to South Africa’s Fynbos Biome of the Western and Eastern Cape. It is relatively common but rarely seen, as it is very wary and avoids human contact whenever possible.

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The Cape grysbok prefers to browse on open plains near the shelter of thickets and dense shrubs that can provide natural cover from predators. The one that fell prey to the eagle had probably wandered too far from shelter in its browsing – and ventured out during daylight, when they normally browse at night to avoid this very fate.

Cape grysbok have stout bodies and short, relatively delicate legs. This antelope's front legs are shorter than its back legs, giving the animal a sloping appearance. Although they are called ‘grey antelope’ they are not grey, but rather a grizzled red. The coarse fur on the grysbok's back and sides is a mingling of red and white hair, while its underside is a lighter colour. They have large ears and big, expressive ‘Bambi’ eyes.

The males have short, sharp horns.

The main feature that distinguishes the Cape grysbok from other grysbok and small antelope species like duiker and klipspringer, is a set of black ‘false hooves’ above the real hooves on its hind legs.

Cape grysbok are browsers, eating grass and the leaves of bushes, trees and vines, as well as fruit. They adapt pretty readily to habitat

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changes, which can sometimes lead them into trouble, especially when they decide to visit farms. Their nibbling on fruits in orchards and shoots of vines in vineyards has made them rather unpopular in some areas.

Grysbokke are typically solitary in nature, only coming together for mating. Females give birth to a single lamb in summer after a gestation period of about six months. Males are territorial and mark their territory by means of scent markers from glands just in front of their eyes to warn other males to stay away.

Because the Cape grysbok is small, it is easy prey for many animals, including jackals and leopards, as well as large birds of prey and snakes. Habitat destruction by humans is another problem they face.

klipspringer, dik-dik and oribi.

To quote the marketing: “The Tiny Ten is a group of pygmy antelope residing in southern Africa.

They are extremely small, all of them weighing less than 25 kilograms. These animals are so delicate and present a very small target. Due to their size, habitat and wary nature, hunting these animals is no mean feat.” And another: “Trophy hunting for Cape grysbok is for the hunter who wants to chase a unique and rare wild species.”

I really despair of humans who can look at a grysbokkie and then kill it for fun.

Who does not remember ‘Bambi’, the little grysbok that was injured in the Betty’s Bay fire of January 2019? The young antelope sustained severe burns to its hooves. We all cheered when Bambi seemed to rally under expert veterinary care. But sadly, the injuries proved to be too severe and he didn’t make it.

Sadly, not all of my research is positive. Disturbingly, I found many websites promoting trophy hunting in South Africa. The targets include the Cape grysbok. The price for bagging a little ‘Bambi’ is on request, but the similar Sharpe’s grysbok will cost you $2 200. There is even an outfit that markets hunting of the ‘tiny ten’ small antelope, which include grysbok, steenbok,

PHOTO: Wikimedia Although the Cape grysbok’s name means ‘grey antelope’ they are not grey, but rather a grizzled red. This small, shy and usually solitary antelope has large ears and big, expressive ‘Bambi’ eyes.

The male Cape grysbok (above) has short, sharp horns.

PHOTO: Bart Coessens

9

www.thevillagenews.co.za

24 June 2020

Saying goodbye is hard to do Writer Elaine Davie

W

ithout a doubt, these have been the happiest six and a half years of my life,” said Principal Greg Hassenkamp during an emotional farewell to the Hermanus High School matric class of 2020 last Friday morning. Most members of his audience would probably have echoed his sentiments.

As he leaves to take up the prestigious post of Headmaster at Pretoria Boys’ High School, the largest boys’ school in the country, he will leave very large shoes to fill in Hermanus.

In tributes paid to him by Head Girl, Ronelle Coetzee and Head Boy, Kyle Philander at his farewell function, the characteristic which seems to have had the greatest impact on the learners is the personal interest he took in each one of them. He knew them by name and kept track of their progress at the school.

In addition, his wholehearted support for the school’s sporting achievements extended beyond the major sports and the top teams. He was as enthusiastic about attending matches featuring the under-15 netball team, as he was in watching the first rugby team demolish a fierce opponent.

A letter from past pupil Tasco Porter (who seems by consensus to have been the naughtiest learner in the history of the school) very movingly summed up the effect the principal had on his own journey. After having appeared in Hassenkamp’s office at least 90 times, by his own estimation, Tasco was forced onto a learning curve which took him in a completely new direction. The care and interest shown by the principal in his personal life had made him choose a fork in the road he would never regret. In his opinion, Mr Hassenkamp was the ultimate man!

Talking about his own journey during his time at Hermanus High School, Greg makes no bones about the fact that he has grown immeasurably, spiritually, professionally and personally and that, more than anyone else, he has the pupils to thank for that. As

he explained at his farewell, there is a difference between wealth and riches and what he had accumulated during his time at the school was riches in abundance.

Having attended Pretoria Boys’ High as a learner from Grade 8 to Grade 12, then having taught there for 14 years, ending up as Deputy Head, his experience in Hermanus inevitably introduced him to an entirely different set of circumstances and a steep learning curve of his own.

“What I have loved most about this experience is the balance and diversity it represents. This is a co-ed school, with parallel English and Afrikaans streams and caters for children from all our local communities, both rich and poor. We’re creating the kind of society here that we would like to see throughout South Africa, where each child is prepared for and is offered an opportunity to succeed on his or her own terms. And that’s why we have placed equivalent emphasis on academic, sporting, cultural and community service. Diversity is what gives individual lives their balance.

“Yes, we’re very proud of the school’s academic success and my heart bleeds for this year’s matric class; they’ve worked hard throughout their five years at high school, only to have Covid-19 disrupt this culminating moment.

We’ve been supporting them in every way we can, though, and who knows, they might end up doing better than any other year’s matric class. But in a way, that’s not the point. The real point is to instil in them values that will last a lifetime, no matter what the circumstances.”

Greg also places a strong emphasis

ABOVE: After the short farewell function on Friday, the matrics formed a guard of honour for the Hassenkamp family (Robert, Amanda, Greg and Megan). BELOW LEFT: Hermies took home the trophy for the Interschool Athletics Day earlier this year against Bredasdorp High and Overberg High. Head boy, Kyle Philander, and Greg Hassenkamp celebrated the win with a hearty embrace. BELOW RIGHT: Greg Hassenkamp was among several locals who helped to douse what was left of the flames when the January fires last year threatened to reach the Hermanus Country Market.

PHOTOS: Taylum Meyer on the fact that the success of a school depends on teamwork and he pays tribute to the excellence of this school’s teachers and the involvement and support of the Governing Body. “Hermanus High School has become a destination school,” he states. “It doesn’t need to take a back seat for any school in the country, no matter how old or how traditional, and it gives me an immense sense of satisfaction to see how the pride they feel in their school has grown.”

He and his wife, Amanda, also a teacher and Greg’s greatest pillar of support, are extremely grateful to have been able to give their children, Megan and Robert (both learners at Hermanus High) the opportunity to enjoy these important years of their childhood in a town like Hermanus, with its freedom and outdoor lifestyle. They believe it has given them a priceless foundation on which to build the rest of their lives.

So while Greg is excited about the new challenges facing him as Head

of his old school of 1 500 pupils, he leaves Hermanus with great sadness. In some ways, he feels he is not done with his work here and he would certainly not have wished to leave in this time of pandemic. Although he is, of course, very familiar with Pretoria Boys’ High, its traditions and ethic, the lockdown has pointed the way to far greater focus on digital pathways to new educational opportunities, which he looks forward to exploring.

He is determined to remain in touch with the many friends he and Amanda have made in Hermanus, though, and will want to keep track of developments at the school and in the lives of his past pupils.

Although no permanent replacement has been found for him yet, the Deputy Head, Mr Francois Hooneberg will fulfil the role of Acting Principal until a new permanent appointment has been made, hopefully by 1 January 2021.

During his tenure at the school Greg also sought to improve its physical facilities and enhance its appearance.

It was therefore fitting that at the farewell function for the matrics, which took place on the two new state-of-the-art netball courts for which he raised the money to build, they should be named after him in perpetuity.

As he and his family made their way through a matric guard of honour to the school’s main entrance on Friday, there was hardly a dry eye to be seen, a fitting tribute indeed to a principal who has left an indelible mark not only on the school he headed up but on the learners whose admiration he earned – and indeed the entire community of Hermanus who recognised and applauded the contribution he made to the town, its children and people.

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www.thevillagenews.co.za

24 June 2020

MY HOME

By LB Vorster

T

The composition and calculation of transfer costs

he purchase price (or in some cases the value) of a property determines the tariff at which the costs incidental to the transfer thereof are calculated. Although it is customary for a purchaser to pay the transfer costs, nothing prevents the parties from stipulating in the deed of sale that the seller will be responsible for payment of the transfer costs.

However, the banks are normally not prepared to finance transfer costs and if the purpose of such a stipulation is to obtain a mortgage bond that will include the transfer costs, chances are excellent that it will not succeed as, without exception, the various banks' attorneys require of the transferring attorneys to certify, inter alia, that no costs are included in the purchase price.

Transfer costs are payable at the time of signature of the transfer documents as the very next two steps in the transfer process are, respectively, payment of the required rates and taxes to the local authority, with a view to obtaining a rates clearance certificate (or levies to the body corporate for the issue of a levy clearance certificate) and payment of the relevant transfer duty to SARS, in respect of which a transfer duty receipt is issued.

Without the rates clearance certificate and the transfer duty receipt it is not possible to proceed with the registration process.

The transferring attorney will present the purchaser with a detailed statement of account (referred to as a ‘pro forma’ statement) which will normally comprise the following:

• •

Deeds Office search fee – This can vary between R250 and R750.

Electronic document generating charges – These will be the various actual charges of

• •

•

•

•

• • •

the electronic service provider (e.g. GhostConvey) and they normally vary in total between R500 and R1 000.

Transfer duty payable to SARS (as obtained from the official SARS website) – refer to the table on the right.

Pro rata rates and taxes (levies) payable to local authority (body corporate) – The extent of this depends entirely on the actual rates and taxes as determined by a local authority (or levies as determined by a body corporate) payable in respect of a particular property.

Cost of rates clearance and valuation certificates (levy clearance certificate) – Currently the Overstrand Municipality charges R172 for this. Levy certificates of bodies corporate can vary between R550 and R 1 550.

Deeds Office registration charge – This is calculated according to a sliding scale with a minimum of R39 and a maximum of R5 435 (if the purchase price is in excess of R30 million).

Transfer fee – These fees are based on the purchase price, for example: - R11 160 if the purchase price is R500 000; - R31 180 if the purchase price is R2 500 000; - R49 660 if the purchase price is R5 000 000; - R59 258 if the purchase price is R7 500 000; - R68 910 if the purchase price is R10 000 000.

Fee for investment of trust funds – This can vary between R500 and R700.

Postages and petties – This can vary between R500 and R1 500.

VAT on fees (only applicable to the Deeds Office search fee, the transfer fee, investment fee for trust funds, postages and petties) – Value added tax on fees is calculated at the current rate of 15%.

It is often found that people loosely use the term ‘transfer costs’ when they actually mean

1 March 2020 – 28 February 2021 Value of property (R)

Rate

1 – 1 000 000

0%

1 000 001 – 1 375 000

3% of the value above R1 000 000

1 375 001 – 1 925 000

R11 250 + 6% of the value above R 1 375 000

1 925 001 – 2 475 000

R44 250 + 8% of the value above R 1 925 000

2 475 001 – 11 000 000

R88 250 +11% of the value above R2 475 000

11 000 001 and above

R1 026 000 + 13% of the value exceeding R11 000 000

the relevant transfer duty payable to SARS. As can be seen from the above, the term ‘transfer costs’ include all costs of transfer, inclusive of transfer duty.

Transfer duty or VAT? Whenever immovable property is transferred from A to B (irrespective of whether the parties are individuals and/or legal entities), the transaction is normally subject to payment of tax to SARS, either in the form of transfer duty (hereinafter referred to as TD) or value added tax (commonly referred to as VAT).

So when will TD be payable and in which instances is VAT payable? Who is responsible for the payment of TD or VAT, and when? And lastly, is it possible to structure a sale transaction in such a way that neither TD nor VAT will be payable?

• •

•

•

Normally, and in the majority of cases, TD will be payable.

The mere fact that a seller of fixed property is registered as a VAT vendor in terms of section 23 of Act 89 of 1991 (the VAT Act) does not necessarily mean that the sale of his/ her/its property is subject to payment of VAT. Only if in the past the seller has claimed ‘input VAT’ in connection with the property, will ‘output VAT’ be payable on the sale thereof.

In such an event no TD will be payable. This is in line with the principle that a single taxable transaction can only be taxed once.

It thus follows that if the seller (who is a registered VAT vendor) has never claimed VAT in respect of a property, he/she/it may choose to either treat the sale thereof as a VAT transaction or a TD transaction.

Our law does not prescribe who is responsible for payment of TD. The only concern of SARS is that the relevant TD is paid within 6 months from date of last signature of the deed of sale (normally the date of acceptance of the Offer to Purchase). However, the practice has developed that the purchaser of fixed property normally pays the relevant TD as part of the transfer costs. Therefore, nothing prevents the parties from stipulating in the deed of sale that the seller will

be responsible for payment of TD. It very seldom happens, though.

• As far as VAT is concerned, the VAT Act stipulates that the seller is responsible for payment thereof. In practice, the seller will merely add the relevant VAT to the price that is required for the property. Consequently, the purchaser normally ends up ‘paying’ the VAT as part of the purchase price but in lieu thereof he/she/it does not have to pay any TD. • It is possible to structure a sale transaction in such a way that neither TD nor VAT will be payable, provided that: 1. the seller of fixed property is registered as a VAT vendor in terms of section 23 of the VAT Act; and 2. the purchaser is similarly registered as a VAT vendor, or will at least be registered as such prior to the date of ‘supply’ (transfer); and 3. the fixed property forms part of an enterprise that is being disposed of as a going and income-earning concern, together with the assets that are necessary for carrying on the business; the transaction will then attract VAT at a zero rate. Consequently, and whereas a single taxable transaction can only be taxed once, neither VAT nor TD will be payable.

This is normally the case with guesthouses and commercial properties. However, if a private property is exclusively being let as holiday accommodation, or in terms of a long-term agreement of lease, it is also deemed by SARS as an enterprise that is capable of being disposed of as a going concern. Needless to say, the wording of the deed of sale will be of utmost importance and will have to clearly reflect the parties’ intention of qualifying the transaction as a zero-rated one.

(This article is merely a general information sheet and should not be used or relied on as legal or other professional advice. No liability is accepted for any errors or omissions nor for any loss or damage arising from reliance upon any information contained herein. Always contact your legal advisor for specific detailed advice or contact us for further assistance.)

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www.thevillagenews.co.za

24 June 2020

She went on growing and growing…

Writer Hedda Mittner

T

hese well-known words from Alice’s Adventures in Wonderland could easily apply to the Hermanus Factory Shop, which has been a landmark in town for almost 40 years. Started in 1983 by a Swiss called Jorg Friedrich, the original premises comprised one room on the first floor of the historical ‘Balcony Building’ in Main Road, reached by a narrow staircase.

Enter Fransien Koegelenberg, born and bred in Ceres, who had just moved to Hermanus after completing her studies in clothing production at the Tygerberg Technical College, where she’d also picked up her future husband, Hermanus native, Johan Koegelberg. “I’d always loved fabrics and sewing, and I used to shop at the Factory Shop,” recalls Fransien. “I was actually looking to start my own business when Jorg offered me a job in 1992.”

Over the years, Fransien has been part of the shop’s gradual expansion – firstly, the section on the first floor

was expanded as more office space became available, secondly the shop took over the premises of Alex Grant Pharmacy on the ground floor when it moved to the Gateway Centre, and thirdly, Fransien took over the premises next door in August 2019, where Homes International used to be.

Unlike Alice, who started growing after swallowing a magic potion, this astute businesswoman, who had bought shares over the years and eventually took over as owner

from Jorg in 2013, grew her business through dedication and hard work – and also by being flexible and adapting to different circumstances.

After successfully negotiating the choppy waters of social unrest, load shedding and the economic downturn over the past few years, she again managed to overcome the latest challenge of the lockdown.

Reopening on 1 May, Fransien says she had a queue in front of the shop as customers were clamouring to find materials to make face masks. “People had more time on their hands and many turned mask-making into a home industry,” she says. “There was also a demand for warm bedding and kitchenware, as people were generally cooking more at home while the restaurants were closed.”

But there is so much more to the Factory Shop than fabrics, bedding and towels, although they remain her best sellers. Here you will also find all manner of décor items to prettify your home, from comfy couches, scatter cushions, beds, tables and chairs, to mirrors, picture frames, lamps and candles. She also stocks clothing and accessories, and quirky gifts for young and old. And, this being the time of corona, some of the most comfortable, effective and easyto-wear face masks.

“I was very fortunate to be able to keep all 13 members of my staff and to continue paying them throughout

Fransien Koegelenberg has been the owner of the legendary Factory Shop in Hermanus for almost three decades.

PHOTOS: Taylum Meyer the hard lockdown. I think many businesses were simply not able to do that.” Now that it’s back to business, Fransien says it’s not quite business as usual, but she believes they’ll get back there. “The buying pattern has definitely changed and customers are mainly shopping for basics. And although the shop looks quite busy, people are not spending the same amount of time as before to just browse – they come in to get something specific and don’t hang around.”

Getting stock is another problem, as not all the factories are back to full production yet. “There is also still a lot of uncertainty about how the

pandemic is going to play out, and that makes it difficult to plan too far ahead.” But one thing is for sure – Fransien and her shop will endure and continue to prosper, no matter what. In spite of its growth, the shop still feels homely, warm and intimate.

It’s an unpretentious and welcoming space, with a good sprinkling of humorous messages and quirky touches; it’s a place where people shop with a smile on their faces.

If you’re in need of a cheer-me-up, pop into the Factory Shop in Hermanus, or Fransien’s second Factory Shop in Gansbaai. Or contact them on 028 312 3265 (Hermanus) or 028 384 0700 (Gansbaai).

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www.thevillagenews.co.za

24 June 2020

MY WELLNESS

Personal care services get the green light Writer Hedda Mittner

P

resident Cyril Ramaphosa’s announcement last Wednesday that hair and beauty salons, tattoo and massage parlours may all reopen, under rules published in the Government Gazette on Friday, has been greeted with joy and relief by locals in the personal care services industry.

This after the Employers Organisation for Hairdressing, Cosmetology and Beauty (EOHCB) threatened to go to court when the Department of Trade and Industry initially failed to publish health guidelines and protocols which would have led to personal care services being reintroduced under alert level 3 of the national lockdown from 1 June.

The organisation had previously stated that up to 70% of the country's salons, spas and tattoo parlours were facing closure as their businesses remained under lockdown. It is estimated that about 90 000 people are active in the hair and beauty sector, which is worth about R300 billion.

“Yes, it’s been a very stressful time for us,” says Lindi Prinsloo, the owner of Refine Clinic. “There is no way that businesses in the beauty industry would have survived being in lockdown until alert level 1.”

These businesses are largely owned by women, who in turn employ mostly women, many of whom are single mothers whose sole source of income had been abruptly cut off.

Thousands of workers in the beauty industry had called on the president to ease the regulations and allow them to work, as many businesses risked losing their rental premises or had been forced to close up shop due to the financial impact of the lockdown. Some had turned to crowdfunding platforms in desperation, while others continued working under the radar in order to put food on the table.

Several local hairdressers confessed that they had continued to service their clients at their homes during the lockdown. “What was I supposed to do?” one asked. “I’m the sole provider and I couldn’t just sit at home while my bills piled up and my children had nothing to eat.”

Lindi agrees that the sector has been hard hit.

“For some the news that personal care services are now permitted to resume has come too late,” she says. “This is heart-breaking not only for the business owners but also their staff.”

Fortunately, Refine has been able to weather the storm by offering their clients virtual consultations and by continuing to supply them with products. “Our therapists have done a wonderful job staying in touch with our clients during the lockdown. It was a new experience for us, as we are such a hands-on industry, but at least we could still give our clients the feeling of being cared for.”

The personal care services (both formal and informal) that are now allowed include hairdressing, barbering, nail and toe treatment, facial treatment and make-up, body massaging, tattooing and body piercing. According to the

regulations that have been gazetted, the basic principles that have to be adhered to include “hand washing; social distancing between customers and staff wherever possible; the use of cloth masks at all times, and more protective masks for close facial contact; and cleaning and disinfecting of touch areas and equipment.”

PHOTO: GettyImages

As with most lockdown regulations so far, there are also a few curiosities such as the suspension of “all beverage and food amenities for customers” (what, not even a cup of tea or a sip of water?); “no unnecessary touching” (which I guess would be a bit difficult if you are supposed to be getting a body massage), and “no scalp, neck, shoulders and arms massages at the basin” (that scalp massage is the best part of my visit to the hairdresser!).

I also can’t help wondering how my hairdresser is going to manage giving me a decent haircut while I have a mask tied around my head (“No customer will be served without wearing a mask”). And while it appears you may wear a cloth mask to the hairdresser, if you are having a tattoo done, “No customer will be served without wearing a medical/surgical mask.”

Curious indeed.

However, there are enough customers lining up to have their dishevelled locked-down looks groomed, snipped, curled, coloured, lifted and rejuvenated – in any which way possible. And the salons are ready for them.

“We are experiencing a whirlwind of emotions as we prepare to reopen from Monday,” said an excited Lindi on Saturday. “Because our services include medical treatments that involve close personal contact, the safety protocols that we need to follow are not all that different from what we’ve been doing all along,” she explained.

“It has always been important for us to maintain

a sanitary environment and we’ll simply extend our normal measures to include the wearing of face masks and visors, and additional hand sanitising. Our prime focus, as always, is the safety of our clients, of ourselves and our staff.”

Lindi, who’s been in the industry for 23 years, said her clients couldn’t wait to return and that her phone had been “ringing off the hook!”

While beauty treatments are often viewed as a luxury, she said the importance of touch should not be underestimated. “It is therapeutic and essential for overall wellbeing; we all need to be touched. The minute a client starts to relax, they open up about their life, their feelings, their families and pets. We know each of them intimately and we need each other.”

Now that they have been given the green light, Lindi says they are ready and raring to go. “We have to stay positive and supportive of one another,” she says. “All businesses should focus on supporting local, as that is the only way we are going to survive. This morning, for example, I popped in at Fleurs to get some fresh flowers for the salon (something natural and beautiful to soften the presence of sanitisers and PPE!) and it felt good to know that I could support another local business in a small way.”

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www.thevillagenews.co.za

24 June 2020

MY PET

Winter is no excuse

By Dr Hilldidge Beer

W

e’re in the grip of winter plus we’re isolating due to Covid-19 so our pets aren’t getting out as much as they used to. That means we don’t need to use parasite control, right? Wrong.

Parasites like ticks, fleas and worms don’t hang around waiting for bikini weather; they hang around waiting for a host and at the first sign of a furry leg or tummy they hitch a ride.

Just five minutes of being outdoors is all a tick needs to attach itself to your pet, whether in long grass or a sandy backyard.

Fleas love winter, especially in homes that are heated. Warm, moist conditions create the ideal breeding conditions and, like tenants who default on rent, once fleas are in your home they’re almost impossible to evict.

Worms, like tapeworm, are easily spread via food and drinking water

and can be passed from pets to humans. Hookworms spread through soil. They get into soil via poop that has hookworm eggs and when you walk barefoot over the soil or on the beach, the worms can enter your body through the skin on your feet and cause an infection.

Diseases spread by parasites There are a whole host of nasty diseases that parasites carry or cause, some of which can be life-threatening. Ticks, for example, cause tick bite fever which results in the deaths of thousands of dogs in South Africa each year. Ticks also cause biliary, another potentially fatal disease.

Fleas can carry and transmit several potential illnesses of importance to humans, including typhus and plague, and can transmit “cat scratch disease” among cats who can then spread the disease to humans.

Additionally, fleas serve as an intermediate host for tapeworms. Fleas are responsible for flea allergy der-

matitis (FAD) in dogs and cats, which is estimated to account for over 50 percent of all skin ailments reported to veterinarians.

Hookworm infection can cause an itchy rash, respiratory and gastrointestinal problems, and eventually iron deficiency anaemia due to ongoing loss of blood.

In rare cases, tapeworms can lead to serious complications, including blocking the intestine, or smaller ducts in the intestine (like the bile duct or pancreatic duct). Pork tapeworm larvae can migrate out of the intestine to other parts of the body and cause damage to the liver, eyes, heart, and brain. These infections can be life-threatening. Seizures are the most common symptom of cysticercosis, the infection caused by the larvae of the pork tapeworm.

So what can I do?

The only solution to combating all of these critters is regular parasite control. There are no vaccinations

against parasites but year-round parasite control diligently applied is highly effective in keeping them at bay. And there are plenty of options to choose from, depending on the size and age of your pet, the ease of application (spot-on, collar or chew) and your budget.

Beware of choosing those cheap as chips supermarket offerings, howev-

er, as they’re unlikely to provide adequate long-term protection.

Ask your vet or EberVet Vetshop for recommendations as not all parasite control is suitable for all pets.

Puppies, kittens and lactating mothers, for example, need special precautions and never, ever give a cat the parasite control that is meant for a dog. It is toxic to cats.

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www.thevillagenews.co.za

24 June 2020

Hermanus Golf Club reopens Hermanus Golf Club’s operations manager, Willem Lindeque, was pleased to announce the reopening of the golf course last week.

now open for members and visitors, but that there is a limitation on the number of players that can play daily.

“We were delighted and the team here at Hermanus Golf Club was prepared so we could get going first thing on Saturday morning,” he said. “However, we do need to adhere to strict regulations as set out by the government and golfing bodies in South Africa.”

“Visitors may book with us two days in advance. We also have to screen every person that visits the club to ensure we do our part in curbing the spread of the Coronavirus. We ask for everyone’s patience and cooperation in this matter,” said Willem, adding that he was delighted with the support the club has received since reopening.

Willem confirmed that Hermanus Golf Club is ABOVE: Curro Hermanus is proud to announce its Primary School head leaders for 2020.

From left are Joshua Du Toit (head boy), Izandri Smit (head girl), Abongile Matoti (deputy head girl) and Rouhan Venter (deputy head boy).

PHOTO: Hermanus Golf Club

BELOW: On Monday 22 June, Curro Hermanus welcomed all learners from Grade 1 to 12 back to school. Staff members and pupils are very happy to be back and are embracing the ‘new normal’ of social distancing, sanitising, hand washing and wearing masks. PHOTOS: Supplied

WE CAN HELP!

Online and in-centre tutoring from the 1st of June, Grade 1 - 12!

Maths * English * Afrikaans ENROL NOW www.m-n-r.co.za

Call us on 028 313 0209 to discuss your child’s needs! #supportsmallbusiness #supportlocal #itaddsup #mnr

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24 June 2020

Nico Ferreira 28.09.1929 – 16.06.2020

ico Ferreira, a pioneer of Small Business Development and Local Economic Development, died peacefully in Hermanus on 16 June at the age of 90.

years involved in actions to solve conflict situations and improve social standards in countries as diverse as post-war Germany, Brazil, Nigeria and Kenya.

Born in the Free State town of Odendaalsrus, Nico studied political science at the University of Pretoria.

From a very early age he had the belief and vision that unity and social renewal needed to come to South Africa and to Africa, and that he had a role to play.

In the late ‘60s he and his wife returned to South Africa and founded a youth development programme, ‘Springbok Stampede’, which toured South Africa and neighbouring countries with musical productions that voiced a message of optimism and reconciliation.

As a young man, he met and became a life-long friend of Mr PQ Vundla, when he tried to mitigate the conflict during the infamous removal of residents from Sophiatown. A bond was built between these two – the seasoned ANC political and community leader and the young Afrikaner.

In years to come they travelled the world together, speaking of the change each had undergone in their quest for a new South Africa.

He was also approached by the Norton Group and Barlow World to develop and manage their social outreach programme. Nico was convinced that Small Business Development, in particular manufacturing, could play a key role in economic upliftment in the country.

Nico became an international participant in the work of Moral Re-armament (MRA) and was for many

He travelled the length and breadth of the country identifying small industrial workshops –brickyards, furniture-makers, clothing manufacturers, fencing material specialists, farmers, etc, and worked with these entrepreneurs to grow their businesses.

He became a well-known figure amongst organisations such as NAFCOC (National African Federated Chamber of Commerce), and the Small Business Development Corporation, (SBDC) and initiated the establishment of the National Industrial Chamber (NIC) and the National African Farmers’ Union (NAFU). He organised group study tours for these entrepreneurs to the USA, Japan, Singapore, and Europe. Out of these experiences grew the idea of Local Economic Development (LED).

In 1982 Nico and his family moved to Stutterheim in order to concentrate his efforts in the Eastern Cape and work in the rural areas which he so loved. However, by the late 1980s the volatile political and socio-economic future of Stutterheim was on the brink of breakdown. As mayor, Nico mediated a programme between the black residents who staged a mass consumer boycott due to a lack of service delivery, and the Town Council and white residents.

The Stutterheim Development Foundation was registered and the Foun-

dation’s far-reaching programmes included housing and infrastructure, improved schooling, agriculture, small business enterprises and rural development. In the words of the first black mayor, “Much bridge-building had to be done in a divided community and we are proud that as leaders we not only managed to build these bridges, but we walked across them and joined hands as the people of the town.”

Nico retired to Hermanus in 2003 but continued to involve himself in a variety of community activities. He was a Member of the Board of Trustees of the Enlighten Education Trust, founded by Mr Henry Kuiper.

He was a visionary leader with a keen understanding of the present, while at the same time building a conceptual model of the future and bringing it into being. His actions inspired others to dream more, learn more, do more and become more. His lively interest in current affairs and his abiding interest in the activities and lives of the hundreds of people with whom he had contact will be sorely

missed. He wanted the best and for that he gave his all.

In 2013, during an overseas trip, Nico suffered a severe brain haemorrhage which incapacitated him. He was admitted to the Onrus Manor Healthcare Centre a year ago where he passed away in his sleep. He was married to Loel Rubidge from Graaff Reinet and they have a daughter who lives in Vienna with her husband, and a son who lives with his family in the Cayman Islands.

– Gert Claassen

24 June 2020

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www.thevillagenews.co.za

MY SPORT

Great comebacks in sporting history son of the Year with a Disability for “breaking the barriers between disabled and able-bodied sport”.

By Tony ’Hagan

O

ver the decades, sports enthusiasts across the world have often been inspired by remarkable comebacks after a spell away from an athlete’s chosen sport, either through injury or a return from temporary retirement. The ability to rally in the face of adversity and turn despair into triumph reflects the fighting spirit of these athletes who have managed to overcome debilitating setbacks to reach new heights in their careers.

Comebacks in South African sporting history include: Schalk Burger’s fight back to Springbok glory IRB World Player of the Year in 2004, Schalk Burger fought his way back to the game he loves after a life-threatening illness. Schalk was an integral part of the 2007 World Cup winning Springboks and the best player he ever coached, according to coach, Jake White.

While preparing for the 2013 Super Rugby season, Schalk suffered a calf strain. A scan revealed a cyst next to the spinal cord, impacting the nerve. After surgery, the 33-year-old developed bacterial meningitis which left him fighting for his life in hospital. Against all odds, he not only pulled through, but 18 months later, Schalk was back.

At the time of his illness, Schalk had played 68 games for the Springboks. He went on to represent his country another 18 times, including winning a bronze medal at the 2015 RWC. Schalk made the most heroic comeback in rugby history and won the Laureus award for Comeback of the Year in 2015.

Disabled swimmer achieves Paralympics Gold Natalie du Toit began competing internationally in swimming at the age of 14. In February 2001, at the age of 17, her left leg had to be amputated at the knee after she was hit by a car, while riding her scooter back to school after swimming training.

Three months later, before she had started walking again, she was back in the pool. Natalie swims without the aid of a prosthetic limb and went on to compete in the 2004, 2008 and 2012 Paralympics, winning 13 gold medals. She was only the third amputee in history to qualify for the able-bodied Summer Olympics. She took 16th place in the 10 km marathon swim at the Summer Olympics in Beijing.

In 2010, Natalie received the Laureus World Sports Per-

Schalk Burger overcame a life-threatening illness to lead the Boks against the All Blacks in the 2015 Rugby World Cup.

Some of the international athletes who have made comebacks in their chosen sport include: Tiger Woods winning the 2019 Masters Golf Tiger Woods won his fifth Masters title in Augusta with a jaw-dropping performance, 11 years after his last major triumph. Considered by many as the greatest comeback in sport, this success came after back surgeries, knee surgeries and personal scandals. There were concerns that he would never play golf again. His recipe for success? "Well, you never give up. Giving up is not in the equation."

Niki Lauda wins Formula 1 after horrific crash Niki Lauda won the Formula 1 World Championships in 1975, before being seriously injured in a crash at the 1976 German Grand Prix at Nurburgring. He came close to death after inhaling hot toxic fumes and suffering severe burns.

PHOTO: Reuters

Natalie du Toit after winning her 5th Gold Medal in the 50m Freestyle at the 2008 Beijing Paralympic Games.

PHOTO: Getty Images

Miraculously, he was back behind the wheel only six weeks later. He went on to win two more World Championships in 1977 and 1984. He founded and ran three airlines, Lauda Air, Niki and Lauda. He died in 2019, while still holding the portfolio of Chairman of Mercedes AMG Petronas F1 Team.

Djokovic goes from “I’m done with tennis” to No.1 Novak Djokovic was ranked No.1 in the World in 2016 when he suffered an injury to his right elbow. Despite advice from coach André Agassi, he did not want to have surgery, as one of his core values was healing naturally and holistically. But in 2017 he relented and underwent an operation on his elbow. As his wife, Jelena put it, ''He buried one part of him with that decision."

Djokovic was struggling with his recovery, saying "it was difficult to remain positive”. There were obstacles along the way, which at times he found too challenging. At one point he stated, "I'm done, I'm not playing tennis anymore."

He credits his wife for her support in overcoming these challenges. Ranked No.22 in the world at the start of 2018, Wimbledon that year ended a two-year major title drought as Djokovic beat Kevin Anderson in the final to take the crown. The US and Australian Open titles followed and Djokovic was back at the top of the world rankings.

In times of illness or serious injury, this never-say-die attitude is arguably the most desirable trait for any sportsman or sportswoman. All these athletes have admirably demonstrated this characteristic and proved that they have the fortitude to overcome adversity.

Fallen hero, Tiger Woods winning the 2019 Masters in Augusta, Georgia in 2019.

PHOTO: Getty Images

Niki Lauda went on to win two more F1 championships after a horrific crash in 1976.

PHOTO: piston.my

Novak Djokovic won his fourth Wimbledon crown in 2018.

PHOTO: espn.com