The Village NEWS 27 March - 03 April 2019

27 MARCH 2019

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A Spanish tourist found himself face-to-face with a great white shark during a recent shark-cage diving tour in Gansbaai. Dave Caravias, the owner of Shark Bookings, is a professional photographer with a passion for marine photography. He was happy to report seeing at least seven great whites back in Gansbaai during the last few weeks.

PHOTO: Dave Caravias

Upgrades in Old Town to go ahead Writer De Waal Steyn ork on the upgrading of the stormwater and sewerage systems in Hermanus Old Town will go ahead as planned.

According to the Overstrand Municipality’s Director of Infrastructure and Planning, Stephen Müller, the contract for the completion of the Bientang’s Cave sewerage pump station was awarded to a contractor on 8 March.

This despite objections from several business owners who say their businesses have already suffered irreparable damage due to the unrest last year and the ongoing economic difficulties that the country is faced with.

“The contractor now has until 2 April to submit a draft programme, guarantee and insurance for approval by the municipality. Once the draft programme is accepted, a meeting will be held to inform all the interested and affected parties in the Old

W

Town,” he said.

been completed,” Müller said.

The primary component of the outstanding work on the Bientang’s sewerage pump project is the construction of a new rising main pipeline along a short section of Marine Drive, then via Market Street to Main Road where it will connect to the existing system.

The budget for this project is only available in the 2018/19 financial year and therefore the work must be completed between the beginning of April and 30 June. Work on this project started in July 2018 and was put on hold in December last year, following a meeting with businesses and property owners in the area. According to business owners the work would have negatively affected their businesses during the busy December/January tourist season.

“The upgrade of the sewerage pump station itself, as well as the longest and deepest section of the pipeline along Marine Drive, have essentially

According to Müller, pedestrian traffic will be accommodated at all times during the last phase of this project. Sections of Marine Drive and Main Road will be closed for relatively short periods to complete the work.

Market Street and the parking lot next to Main Road will be closed for vehicles during construction. This closure will be dependent on soil conditions but could last up to two months.

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27 March 2019

PHOTO: Martin Etsebeth

First feedback on Schulphoek propsal Writer De Waal Steyn

number of roads linking the area to town and Sandbaai need to be increased.

A

“If the current extension of Church Street through Schulphoek is used, it will create high traffic volumes that will endanger the large number of pedestrians in the area,” he said.

t a multi-party stakeholders’ meeting in the municipal auditorium on Monday morning, only one group was ready to present their proposal for a future housing development on the Schulphoek land.

The meeting, chaired by Western Cape Premier Helen Zille, followed on the previous stakeholders’ meeting held in Hermanus on 18 March, when a draft concept was presented

by Makeka Architects on behalf of the Western Cape Government (Design proposal for Schulphoek housing development, The Village NEWS, 20 March).

Several of the stakeholders, including the ANC and Zwelihle Renewal, said that a week was too short a time for them to get feedback from their members on such an important development and asked for a postponement until 8 April.

A group calling themselves the New Harbour Precinct (NHP), representing both businesses and residents in and around the New Harbour, presented their proposal for the development of Schulphoek. According to Willem van Zyl, who did the presentation, all their members are in agreement that the land needs to be developed based on the Better Living Model, which makes provision for the development of affordable housing only.

“We are happy with the plan that was presented at a previous meeting, but we feel that a few changes need to be incorporated. The access roads to the area, as well as the road linking town with Sandbaai need to be reconsidered.

In our opinion the thoroughfares should run along existing roads in Zwelihle and the

In addition, the NHP proposed the building of a skills centre on the corner of Still and Church Streets. “The development of this centre will be funded in part by the abalone farms in the area and will be used in upskilling people to turn, amongst other things, abalone shells into artworks or other useable items.”

The NHP also proposed creating gardens along some of the routes to help beautify the area, especially along Church and Still Streets. This in turn would assist in stabilising the property prices in an area that has seen a significant drop in property values, according to the proposal.

Van Zyl said the NHP is also in favour of the proposed desalination plant that is planned in Church Street next to the Abagold farm. “This is the best possible place for such a development, as sea water is already being pumped to the area by the abalone farms. The cost of extracting water from the ocean is one of the largest for a desalination plant and this area already offers that.”

He said that the land located next to the proposed desalination plant will be the perfect spot for the creation of an abalone farm for the community of Zwelihle. “The existing abalone farms have already indicated that they will not only assist in setting up a mariculture farm on that piece of land, but that they will also buy all the products it produces. This will create a winwin situation for all involved,” said Van Zyl.

In addition to this, the NHP also proposed that a piece of the Schulphoek land be bought on which to develop a People’s Housing Programme (PHP). PHP programmes are aimed at people who qualify for subsidised affordable housing, but instead of the subsidy being paid to a bank, the money is transferred to the owners, who are then responsible for building their own house and paying for the labour themselves.

Premier Helen Zille said at the meeting that the proposed Better Living development for Schulphoek is vital for both the economy of Hermanus and that of the region. “Hermanus is pivotal in the economy of the Southern Cape and if this economy fails, it will have negative ramifications for all the other towns in the area.

“For that reason, we need to create this development so that it can alleviate the pressure in the housing market for those people who qualify for affordable housing, and thereby stimulate economic growth.”

In previous meetings with the multi-party stakeholders is was agreed by all parties that the Better Living Model will be followed for any development on the Schulphoek land.

This means that the more upmarket units will subsidise the lower-priced units.

Zille said that the government and other stakeholders are committed to make experts available to any group who needs assistance with the formulation of their proposal.

“We need the buy-in of all the parties involved to make this a reality. I am making myself available to assist with that and should I be asked

by Alan Winde, DA Premier candidate for the Western Cape, to keep on driving this project

during my retirement, I will do so.

“What we need is for stakeholders to stop finding problems for all the solutions we come up with. This one development will not solve all the housing problems in the Overstrand, but it will go a long way in creating a model that can be replicated throughout the region.

We all agreed that this development will be for affordable housing only, as the cost of the development will be too high to make provision for free housing. Even the national government is moving away from the idea of creating free housing for people. It is simply too expensive.

“If we fail at making this development a reality, the consequences for Hermanus would be dire. What we would end up with is a situation where Schulphoek is filled with shacks. If that happens there is no way that we can even supply basic services to the people, as it is forbidden by law for any sphere of government to supply services to dwellings on private property.

"Not only will this be bad for the people living there, it would be equally bad for those living next to such an area. Therefore, we need the assurance that the continued erection of shacks in the area will cease immediately,” Zille said.

Theron Mqhu of Zwelihle Renewal said the organisation is committed to the development of the Schulphoek land and to the halting of the erection of new shacks. “We are, however, opposed to the development of a desalination plant or an mariculture farm in the area. It seems as if these things that are not wanted in other areas are simply dumped in Zwelihle,” he said.

All the stakeholders committed to presenting their development ideas at a meeting on 8 April.

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27 March 2019

www.thevillagenews.co.za

Get ready for new wave of tourists South African Airways flight from Mumbai to Johannesburg was clearly a mistake.

Writer Raphael da Silva

M

inister of Tourism, Derek Hanekom, predicts that 2020 and beyond will be great years for tourism in South Africa.

He cautions, however, that industry should adapt quickly to the needs of Chinese and Indian tourists, the two key markets that Government is targeting in particular, if this strategy is going to be successful.

In a wide-ranging speech followed by a Q & A session at The Class Room restaurant on Monday, Minister Hanekom pointed out that last year, 160 million Chinese travelled abroad, but only 100 000 came to South Africa.

Australia, on the other hand, received 1.5 million Chinese visitors.

“I thought that 2019 would be a big recovery year,” said Minister Hanekom. “I now think that, in the course of this year, there will be some recovery, but it is actually taking longer.

If we do the right things and avoid doing the wrong things, then 2020 and beyond could be great years for tourism in South Africa.”

Doing the right things includes ensuring that there are officials at the airports who speak Mandarin, and making it easier for Chinese and Indian tourists to visit this country.

However, in reference to the findings coming from the Zondo Commission, he noted, “The discontinuation of that flight was not an innocent decision.”

Tourism, the Minister said, is a resilient sector. A few good measures can see tourism grow quite significantly.

But equally, a few wrong decisions can impact it negatively.

Clinton Lerm, a member of the Executive Committee of the Whale Coast Business and Consumer Forum (WCBCF) in discussions with Minister of Tourism, Derek Hanekom (left).

PHOTO: Raphael da Silva

“We are told, with some confidence

by Home Affairs, that by the end of this year, they will have at least introduced the eVisas to China and India,” said Hanekom.

For example, when visa requirements for Russians were lifted, the Minister pointed out, visitor numbers to South Africa jumped 53% the following year. But the onus is also on business to make the necessary changes. This includes not just having staff who can

The Minister pointed out that after growing from 2010, two factors led to the decline of tourism in 2015: introducing the requirement for unabridged birth certificates for children who are travelling and the Ebola virus outbreak in West Africa.

“The Voortrekker Monument, for example, is a very popular place for Chinese tourists. They love big buildings, monuments and museums,” he added.

On 13 March 2019, the Department of Home Affairs issued an updated advisory on the requirements for children travelling through South African ports of entry. The Minister said this new advisory is in line with what the Department of Tourism has been asking for many years. “The airlines have no reason to turn people away at the airport now,” he said.

On India, an easier tourist market when it comes to language, the Minister said that cancelling the direct

Again, in 2016 and 2017 tourism grew, but in 2018 it was the Western Cape drought and Day Zero that led

speak Mandarin, but also ensuring that there are native-speakers at key tourism sites.

to a decline. “Who wants to arrive in a city faced with the possibility that Day Zero will happen when you are in that city?” he asked.

“Personally, I would have pushed for exemptions for hotels for water consumption,” he said, adding that, with the hotel industry only accounting for 1% of consumption, it would not have made a significant difference to saving water, but it did have a huge effect on perception. “We have to be very careful about the messages we send out.”

The breakfast meeting was organised by the Whale Coast Business and Community Forum. Although the opportunity to have a conversation with the Minister came up at the last minute, Clinton Lerm, a member of the Executive responsible for the tourism portfolio said, “Within 24 hours of the invitation going out, we had a fully-packed venue.”

Go online to www.thevillagenews. co.za for more on the talk by Minister Derek Hanekom and to watch videos of his responses to topics such as visas, Airbnb and banning plastic bags.

Visit us on www.thevillagenews.co.za for more stories.

Revitalisation will be part of upgrades From P 1 As far as possible, pedestrian traffic will be permitted throughout the construction. Work will be halted during the Hi-Tec Walkerbay Xtreme and the surfaces will be temporarily rehabilitated for use during the event. The Xtreme takes place from 26 to 28 April.

In addition to this project, work will also start this winter on the upgrading of the stormwater system and the first phase of the Old Town Revitalisation project in High Street.

From May to June a section of the

new stormwater pipe will be installed in Main Road from the Dirkie Uys Street intersection to the entrance of the Hamewith apartment block.

During this time the revitalisation of High Street, from the Woolworths parking area to the Cycle Café, will take place.

The revitalisation will include the replacement of the tarred road surface with cobblestones and widening the pavements to allow for the pedestrianisation of High Street.

According to Müller, during the installation of the stormwater pipe in

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Main Road, one of three road closure options can be implemented:

• Close the westbound lane for traffic and operate a stop-and-go system to allow traffic in both directions.

• Close Main Road for traffic from the intersection with Dirkie Uys Street to the entrance of Hamewith apartments. Traffic coming from the Eastcliff side of town will be redirected to Dirkie Uys Street. Only residents in the area will be allowed entrance to Main Road from a westerly direction.

“Pedestrian access will be maintained on the sidewalks for as long as possible. During the upgrades in High Street, vehicles will be limited to residents only. Pedestrian access to High Street will be limited but will be managed in the road reserve where possible,” said Müller.

• Close the westbound traffic lane.

From a westerly direction only residents will be allowed to enter Main Road beyond the intersection with Marine Drive.

In the five months from July to December the installation of a stormwater pipe will take place in Dirkie Uys Street as well as in High Street from The Cycle Café to Mitchell Square

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During that time, Dirkie Uys Street will operate as a one-way for vehicles travelling in a westerly direction. Only residents’ vehicles will have access to High Street and pedestrian access will be limited.

A total of R3,2 million was made available in the current budget for the revitalisation of Hermanus Old Town, with a further R5,5 million provided for in the 2019/20 draft budget.

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27 March 2019

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Hero of the Hermanus airfield Writer Elaine Davie

MAIN THEATRE

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es, for all those residents of a more recent vintage, Hermanus did indeed have an airfield, with its own hangars, control tower and club house for the flourishing flying club based there. Built on municipal ground, it was located between the industrial area and the Kwasa Kwasa section of Zwelihle.

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Unfortunately, over time, membership of the club dwindled and finally the airstrip and its accompanying buildings were abandoned.

Whatever could not be stripped away, was left to rust and moulder away. Eventually, the area was rezoned for 1 500 houses for new Zwelihle residents.

Of course, when Theo de Meyer and his wife, Stella settled into their retirement home in Sandbaai, which they called the House of Peace, he knew nothing of the existence or history of the airfield. After a lifetime of service at a senior level in the public sector, Theo did know two things about his future in Hermanus: one was that he was definitely not going to sit on his stoep drinking coffee all day and the other was that he had so much to be grateful for in his life that he now wanted to pay some of his good fortune back to a less privileged section of the community. But he wasn’t sure where, what or how to begin.

He was good with his hands, though, so he offered his services to Child Welfare as a handyman. In no time, he had progressed to Chairman of the organisation, which he remained for the next three years. From this platform, he was able to gain valuable insights into the needs of underprivileged members of the community and indeed to get to know them personally.

In a sea of poverty, it soon became clear to Theo, however, that there were two sectors of the community that were in particularly dire straits – the homeless and the youth, both aimlessly loitering about with no recognition or purpose. Existing organisations did not appear to be taking up their cause and it seemed to him that he was being given a divine commission to alleviate their plight. If he was prepared to answer the call, he would be given the means to carry it out, he believed. The next thing that happened seemed to reinforce this belief.

Driving home to Sandbaai from the New Harbour one day, he decided to take a short cut on a dirt track through Zwelihle and there he came upon this collection of rag-tag buildings, stripped naked and falling apart. There were no doors or windows left and both the plumbing and electrical piping had been ripped out. Straightaway, he knew this was what he had been looking for. Having consulted with a number of people in the Hermanus and Zwelihle communities, he successfully sold his vision to the Overstrand Municipality, and was ready to take on the massive task of creating something useful out of the derelict buildings.

He was given one year to see what he could do.

Setting to work immediately, he rounded up between 10 and 20 ‘bergies’, providing them with a small daily stipend and a meal of fruit and bread. They began by clearing up the huge amount of rubble on the site and patching what was salvageable. During this time, Theo gave a talk about the project to the Rotarians of Hermanus, and as he had been promised, things continued to fall into place.

At just that time, in May 1996, some old sheds at the Hermanus Station (which wasn’t really a station) were being demolished to make way for the new Checkers development. The Rotary Club successfully tendered for them and passed the materials, together with some basic building tools to the ‘madman’ and his project.

ABOVE: Theo de Meyer in front of his favourite flowers at his home in Sandbaai.

RIGHT: Theo is still involved in the Hermanus Recycle Swop Shop in Zwelihle on Wednesdays.

PHOTOS: Taylum Meyer By that time, the municipality had granted him a 99-year leasehold on the property and the enterprise had been given a name – Hou Moed (loosely translated: ‘Don’t give up’).

This provided the ‘bergies’ not only with on-going work opportunites, but also, eventually, a place to stay and a cooked meal each day. What finally emerged was a home for the homeless and an after-care centre for the youth, with a wide range of sporting and cultural activities and a computer centre to keep them productively and creatively occupied.

Eventually, the number of homeless people in the area diminished and it was decided to terminate that project and to replace it with two others: the beginnings of an ECD centre – Yomelelani – and the Swop Shop which created an opportunity for children and unemployed women to collect recyclable waste materials in the community and be rewarded in kind for their efforts.

Each of these projects operated as separate entities with their own management structures under the umbrella of the Hou Moed Centre for Youth Development and Recreation. By this time, what Theo called his A Team of 20 young people had taken over from where the ‘bergies’ had left off and helped him to carry on building and repairing the premises, as well as preparing about 70 cooked meals at the centre every day. More classrooms were added for Yomelelani and thanks to growing financial support, both local and foreign, they were able to purchase a bakkie and a small bus. Approximately 60 – 70 young people participated in the continuously expanding after-school programmes and another 30 – 40 pre-schoolers were accommodated at Yomelelani.

BEAN BAG THEATRE PREMIERING FROM 29 MAR - 4 APR able to organise the resuscitation of the project in a different format. Thanks to a very generous foreign donation, Yomelelani was able to spread its wings even further and Theo and his A Team converted a remaining hangar into a large hall adjacent to the centre. The Swop Shop continues to operate on the site and the Red Cross has taken over some aspects of the youth development project.

In addition, in his personal capacity, he has assisted several promising youngsters with their education and ‘adopted’ one of them, Patrick Zakheli Mbhadeni, now married and with a family of his own, who has become a flourishing entrepreneur and remains an integral part of Theo’s extended family. Several of the members of his A Team currently hold leadership positions in Zwelihle Renewal, including Gcobani Ndzongana and Theron Mqhu.

In 2012, as he was approaching his 80th birthday, Theo felt he should hand over the dayto-day management of Hou Moed to a larger, more structured organisation. Eventually it was decided that Child Welfare would become its custodian. Sadly, this venture did not have a happy ending and its steadily downward trajectory culminated in the closing of the Hou Moed project.

He expresses his sadness about the violence with which this movement has been associated, but based on his many years of experience with the people of Zwelihle, he has full confidence in the community’s potential for success.

“You can see signs of it already,” he points out.

“People are pulling themselves up by their bootstraps – they have an unstoppable drive to improve their own lives and those of their children; many of them have already moved into the middle class. All they need is a bit of a boost – and equal educational opportunities, of course.”

What had been described as ‘an oasis in a sea of misery’ became the misery itself, recounts Theo, who was heartbroken by this turn of events. Known as ‘Meneer’ by all and sundry in Zwelihle, his mission had been to be a friend to the poor, the needy and the underdog and he was not going to allow his vision to be trodden underfoot. So, now well into his 80s, he was

The recipient of numerous awards, which are all neatly filed in his memory book, Theo remains a self-effacing hero. A welcome visitor to all the projects that have sprung from the battered airfield site (now surrounded by houses and shacks), he feels a sense of deep satisfaction at having stuck unwaveringly to his commission.

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27 March 2019

www.thevillagenews.co.za

LET’S TALK It is time we fight for our future The development of housing on the Schulphoek land has been a continuous theme in newspaper columns for almost a decade.

oped, or not, on this prime piece of property – one of the last undeveloped seafront properties in our region.

And while there might be a growing feeling of disinterest by many residents, it is vital to note the importance of what is transpiring in the corridors of negotiation. Thousands of people in the Overstrand are in dire need of affordable housing and Schulphoek will be a make or break development that sets the trend for the future development of our whole region.

There have been many iterations of what must be done on the land and there have been claims and counterclaims by all and sundry about the eventual sale of the land. To such an extent that many residents have difficulty in understanding what the status quo is.

In the coming months there will be yet more debate on what should be devel-

The ability of all spheres of govern-

ment, and the interested and affected parties, to cooperate in forging a way forward will be tested. We simply have to look at the violent protests in Kleinmond last week. A small spark ignited an inferno of violence in a town where so much is being done right. Kleinmond and its leaders have been setting the tone for cooperative governance where all communities are involved and where positive dialogue is practiced with passion.

But all of this was almost scuppered when illegal structures were removed.

While this is a highly emotive issue,

By Murray Stewart thevillagemuze@gmail.com

Deciding on a topic for each week’s column can be difficult. It is impossible to guess how many readers have also seen something unbelievable and worth sharing on their TVs, YouTube, Facebook, pod-casts, internet streaming etc.

Many folks though, may not have DStv, with its international news and educational channels, and some are oblivious to the horrors and delights on YouTube, yet others are unfamiliar with web-surfing or social media altogether.

So, with apologies to the larnies who have all of the above gadgets (plus the T-shirt and their own #), the elves at the Explanation of Everything have decided to accommodate the gadgetless have-nots wherever possible. How else could they be kept updated on current conundrums, like why Steve Hofmeyr refuses to sing in Afrikaans anymore, how many lies the Angry Orange told this week, or why only male ballet dancers have

that big lump in the front? Folks need answers.

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What is happening now with Schulphoek is setting up the building blocks of our futures. Let’s fight for it and not destroy it.

This is the good NEWS – Ed.

We also have to accommodate emails from concerned readers wanting feedback on particular topics. In replying, gleaning information from only one source is called plagiarism, while quoting from many is regarded as research, so we cast our net wide to avoid those scratchy orange overalls.

Anyway, Chuck Forbes for example, was keen to seek advice regarding the load-shedding and torso-trimming exercises we suggested in the New Year’s column on fitness.

“It was blerry difficult to hold a cigarette with some of those exercises,” he wrote, “so I’ve cut down on smoking, thanks to you. I also wasn’t allowed to smoke in hospital, so I’ve almost kicked it altogether.”

Apparently Step 4 of the exercises, (on one leg, slowly lift the other foot till vertically above the head, and hold) was too much for him.

His spine separated completely from his pelvis, leaving him flopping

around on the lounge floor like a beached snoek. This didn’t go down well with Mrs Forbes. She was hosting a Tupperware evening for the ladies from the bingo circuit, and didn’t have time for Chuck’s melodramatics.

And as for exercises, these caused all the problems in the first place, so staying relaxed and immobile for as long as possible will safeguard against further mishaps. Best wishes and please keep us posted.

Anyway, a couple of doctors shoved things back into place, and while the bones reset, he was encased in a plaster-of-Paris cocoon from chin to shin.

Now, after two months in hospital, he’s glad to be out of both.

Also in the inbox was an update from Druiwe du Toit, our local head of TWOT (Trump’s World of Tomorrow), who emails us most weeks. This time he informed us that he’s flying soon to Washington to rally any South Africans living there, to march with him to the Oval Office for a chat with Honest Donny.

“But jislaaik! The food in there was only k*k hey,” he continued, “so I’ve lost a hell of a lot of weight. Now that I’m back on my feet (one of them anyway), can you recommend any exercises to get fat?”

Well, Mr Forbes, for a start, don’t watch any pretentious cooking channels on TV. They usually make healthy nutritious food, which won’t help you at all. Rather stick to lard sandwiches, crisps, koeksisters and plenty of beer between meals. These should consist of processed foods – the higher the MSG the better. A selection of cheeses and a couple of mugs of fortified wine should do fine. Chocolates and cream donuts are also good.

“If that Kardashian bokkie and JayZ could meet him, then, as Die Suidlander’s head TWOT, they’ll let me in chop-chop,” he wrote. “While he’s building his wall, I’ll ask him to send over some Mexican labourers to help fix our swimming pool. It’ll cost less than the wall, and the life-guards will be pleased to get their jobs back. He can also make Mexico pay for it even though they’re not good swimmers.”

Anyway, out of interest, that big lump in front of the male ballet dancers is a footrest for the ballerinas when they get lifted up.

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LET’S TALK

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. - The Editorial Team

T: 028 312 2020 A: 8 Arum St, Hermanus Industrial

GAS DELIVERIES

Praise for our pristine Discovery disappoints environment is a fabrication with their prescription There is a very real and unfortunate shortcoming in some of the views expressed about the Lamloch Farm – and this is the worn-out references to the wonderful, near-pristine Overstrand environment and its magnificent flora and fauna.

This is nonsense. For the vast majority of people, the environment is not the mountains and the sea – it is those areas between the fences of designated reserves and our garden gates.

Ward 8 is an environmental mess.

All the vacant land is overgrown, with weeds increasing exponentially. I have been complaining bitterly about the neglect of open spaces, especially here in Fisherhaven, and the extremely poor control of alien weeds.

What it amounts to is that we have some designated reserves but also much private and public land that is simply neglected despite legislation like NEMBA that purports to protect the environment.

I am grateful for the commendable attitude of the Overstrand Municipality’s Environmental Services, which has very recently appointed someone to expressly attend to non-designated reserves. However, it remains to

be seen if the resources will be made available to achieve a result.

Against this background, we have the continued, uninformed praise of our wonderful environment and the natural beauty of the flora of the Cape Whale Coast.

This is a complete fabrication and anyone with environmental awareness can see that the environment between designated reserves and individual homes and residential complexes is in a disgraceful condition – especially in Ward 8, but not restricted to it.

ously overlooked. In its present poor condition it is seen as an undeveloped resource while actually doing nothing to unlock what it could produce.

Secondly, it is a real problem that natural beauty, water systems and wildlife refuges are becoming increasingly commercialised. This means that nature is being denied to the vast majority of people in the low-income brackets. Almost any advertised “eco-tourism” establishment touts the word “luxury”. Luxury for those who can afford it.

While tourism may indeed create jobs and invite more people to the area, it also invites more job seekers and those desperate to make a living.

The Lamloch development and the discussion around it is also fraught with ignorance and indifference to the real issues.

Firstly, we have the problem of management of the Bot River Estuary and its link to Lamloch and Kleinmond.

It is managed and maintained as a highly unstable ecological system that benefits from neither a fresh-water regime, nor a marine regime. The unpredictable water levels lead to an unhealthy shoreline, apart from the severe impact it has on the marine element.

It is based on a failing capitalist system that depends on unsustainable growth and development – destruction of the environment. It does not and will not contribute significantly to the poor and deprived.

I fear that I cannot cover these issues adequately and am alarmed that people better qualified and able, seem so indifferent and unaware of the mess the environment is actually in.

Bruce Bayer, Fisherhaven

The potential of this system is seri-

I am writing this letter out of pure exasperation.

A week or two ago I received an email from Discovery Medical Aid informing me quite curtly that as of 1 April I can no longer receive my chronic medication from the pharmacy of my choice, but rather that I must now use one of their ‘network providers’ or face paying a 20% co-payment.

I am sure I talk on behalf of thousands of Discovery members in the region when I say I am truly sickened (pun intended, Discovery!) by this turn of events.

As a resident of a small town I am proud to support local as much as I can. I have no problem with development and economic growth, but when you take into consideration that most of our country’s economic growth happens at grassroots level, the importance of supporting local becomes even more vital.

I have been a proud supporter of one of our locally-owned pharmacies for more than a decade. Even after a pharmacy opened its doors in one of our large retailers in town and the mall was built in Sandbaai, offering a wide variety of shops, I still supported local because it is important to me.

I prefer being greeted by name by everyone, from the pharmacists to the cashiers, and I enjoy the personal service of the pharmacists who are au fait with my medical condition and who not only offer specialised information, but also encourage me through the tough times.

Now, however, I am being forced by a nameless person at a faceless corporate to change my service provider to another corporate service provider, through no fault of our local pharmacies!

I understand the economies of scale that a corporation such as Discovery can muster through deals like this, but they seem to be completely unaware of the impact it has on smalltown businesses and residents.

If I had the financial means to pay the 20% co-payment I would gladly do so, but unfortunately, I am already paying a large portion of my monthly income towards being one of the fortunate few who can still afford a medical aid.

I am sure there are many residents who share my pain.

RA sufferer, Hermanus

Aliens are a greater threat to fynbos than wildlife I’d like to add my comments to the Lamloch debate. Firstly, I find the attacks on Mr Craig Saunders exaggerated and improper.

I drove down to Rooisand again only last week, and it is awful to see how the fynbos is being destroyed by alien vegetation. Mr Saunders has spent thousands on clearing the land

where he wants to keep wild animals.

The veld is looking beautiful. As one drives towards Rooisand, the right hand side is a paradise of fynbos, while the left side is infested with aliens that grow right up to the road.

Why is everyone complaining about Mr Saunders, who at least is doing something to rehabilitate the

environment? His wildlife could not destroy fynbos to the same extent as the aliens, which no one complains about. Just as no one complains about the informal homes being built on parts of our biosphere where endemic orchids, ericas and other fynbos species grow. This unique flora cannot be found anywhere else in the world.

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I’d like to thank Mr Saunders for clearing his land of invasive aliens.

The aliens on his neighbouring farm

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are destructive to nature – and all the complainers ignore this. What destroys nature is alien vegetation, not Mr Saunders’ wildlife.

Mr Saunders, on your land, close to the turn-off to Rooisand, is a spot where the threatened Disa Venusta grows, even more beautiful than those in Betty’s Bay. But I know that you will preserve them.

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I wish him every success with the planning of his game farm and the injection to the economy of our region.

Carol Mostert

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www.thevillagenews.co.za

27 March 2019

YOUR OPINION Email your letters to letters@thevillagenews.co.za

Wild horses must be accommodated

By Tracey Whitelaw, Rooisand Horse Watch The Village NEWS readers may recall that in November 2018 there were moves to have the Rooisand wild horses released from Lamloch farm where they had been enclosed behind locked gates for almost a month.

Fortunately an agreement with the landowner was reached and the horses were released into the western swamps and the eastern Rooisand Nature Reserve a few days later.

Since then we have observed that the groups successfully use the beach to move between the western and eastern marshes. The horses are being squeezed into a smaller area, and no longer have access to Lamloch water and grazing. They have moved to access water when they haven’t been successful in digging for it.

It is our contention that the remarkable Rooisand horses need to be accommodated when development plans are made, to keep them free, so that they can be enjoyed by future generations. We have the endorsement of our members and the many signatories to our petition to help us achieve this. Rooisand Horse Watch has registered as an Interested & Affected Party for the purposes of commenting on the proposed development at Lamloch. At the very least we’ll correct a few assumptions about the horses, and their role and number.

However, there is an issue that we feel has been missed amidst the controversy about elephants and lions.

This is the existence of the electrified fence across the Bot-Kleinmond channel. We as horse watchers have had some very close and personal experience of it.

The entire 462 hectare property is now fenced with electrified game fencing. The fence is electrified even where it passes over water at the wide Bot-Kleinmond channel. The fence runs right up to the dunes at

This map gives an indication of where the fence could be moved in order to preserve the channel.

Sandown Bay and its path can be seen on Google Earth. The distinctive channel that runs between the Bot River estuary and Kleinmond has effectively been cut off.

The net effect is that there is no longer ease of movement within the swamp system for the horses or for other small mammals such as the Cape clawless otter, the honey badger and lynx. In the absence of other natural large mammals, the horses played a role in the marshes by creating pathways through the reeds. These channels were used by other animals, and allowed the free flow of water where otherwise it may be slowed by reed growth.

How the birds visiting the pans and inlets inside the fence are affected remains to be seen but the wire is now becoming difficult to see as it has oxidised. The fence poles are clearly visible to visitors to the Rooisand bird hide, and bird watchers and paddlers no longer have access to the pools further into the marshes, or through the channels to Kleinmond to the west. How did this happen? At what point was the landowner allowed to effectively fence off the river channel between the two water bodies? We don’t know, and it’s odd that more hasn’t been made of it.

Granted, the Bot-Kleinmond estuarine system may be under-appreciated by the general public. Many people are unaware of its size and extent, having simply glimpsed it as they’ve sped along the R44, or R43.

And they may also be unaware that the historic mouth of the Bot River is Kleinmond, or the ‘small mouth’ (Heydorn & Grindley, CSIR 1982).

And yet, in 2017, after an enormous amount of work and effort by CapeNature and other authorities, the Bot-Kleinmond estuarine system Phase 1 was declared a wetland of global importance in terms of the Ramsar convention. It is South Africa’s 23rd Ramsar site – a number which detracts from its importance as

a fish nursery, and its role as a buffer zone of the Kogelberg biosphere.

Phase 2 of the Ramsar application was supposed to cover the surrounding privately-owned land and it is still to be compiled. How the fence impacts on the current Ramsar status or the ability of the authorities to achieve Phase 2 success remains to be seen.

The system also falls in the buffer zone of the Kogelberg Biosphere Reserve and is listed as ‘critically endangered’ in South Africa’s National Biodiversity Assessment. The CAPE (Cape Action for People and the Environment) Estuaries Programme identified the Bot River as ‘a coastto-mountain ecological corridor, and the shoreline and dune environment between Kleinmond and Hawston as a coastal corridor’. It also identified ‘the Lamloch swamps between Kleinmond and Arabella as a priority biodiversity corridor within the Kogelberg Biosphere Reserve’.

Certainly, the Bot River estuary has changed in character over the years, mostly due to human activities which reduced inflow. But there has always been a channel between the two systems. When the estuary water level is high, the water overflows from the channel into the swamps, which act as a flood ‘plain’. A natural breach at the mouth at Kleinmond or at Middlevlei rarely takes place, or the strict requirements of the breaching policy are met and the authorities initiate an artificial breach either side.

It is the opinion of the Rooisand Horse Watch that the Lamloch fence should be moved back to the high water mark on the northern shore.

We cannot begin to understand how the authorities that are appointed to look after our environment have allowed this. While we acknowledge that a landowner has every right to fence his or her land, surely they cannot fence over what is part of a renowned estuary system? And then develop tourism facilities over it?

This is the game fence, electrified on both sides, which crosses the Bot-Kleinmond channel twice, effectively cutting the system in two.

PHOTO: Leanne Dryburgh, Rooisand Horse Watchers

THE VILLAGE

EXPLORER

EVENTS | BOOKS | NATURE | FOOD

Patrolling fine wine country TH

DV E N T U R E S EA OF

FL YD & LLO D US

SP

SO

AN

ON

By John Flloyd

RE

D B HE Y NISSAN

RM

& Frieda Lloyd

O

ur intrepid Overberg explorers, Frieda Lloyd and John Floyd, have been reunited after a short break and decided to celebrate their reunion with an epic vehicle, the Nissan Patrol 5.6 V8 LE Premium, to match the spirit of the Absa Cape Epic that visited our region earlier this month.

John: The Nissan Patrol has been around for more than 60 years and is one of those legendary vehicles that every motoring enthusiast has heard of, but very few have ever encountered in the metal. I must confess that apart from the diesel-engined pick-up of many years ago, this was my first close encounter.

The steep incline at La Vierge was no challenge for this vehicle as the V8 engine played its part to ensure a speedy and smooth acceleration in the same style, I imagined, of Nino Schurter and Lars Forster who tamed the Cape Epic this year. (Almost as smooth as the Chardonnays I was looking forward to tasting.)

The first impression is one of magnitude. This SUV beast is huge, at just over five metres long, a tad under two metres wide and high, and weighing in at nearly 2.8 tons.

In fact, it is the first time I have ever appreciated running boards, usually a restriction off-road, but in this case allowing easier access to the cabin.

John: The interior is well finished, with accent trim in faux wood grain complementing the leather upholstery and satin metal elements.

The driver’s seat is truly a command position; good visibility aided by rearand surround-view cameras ensure that you have good spatial positioning. The dashboard, switchgear, infotainment/navigation screen and instrumentation are easy to read and ergonomically very effective.

Frieda: I heard my ride before I saw John and the Nissan Patrol arriving to take me on a local excursion. In typical V8-style there was a lovely sound effect to my ride that joins the ranks of Prado and Land Cruiser at the top end of the luxury SUV market. And luxurious it is – inside and out.

The Patrol has plenty of space and can seat 7 people comfortably. Just the right capacity if you want to take a drive up the Hemel-en-Aarde Valley to visit some wineries and scout the Absa Cape Epic route that took 1 300 riders through the region on two consecutive days.

Listing the extremely comprehensive specification level requires far more space than I have in this column; just accept that all the bells and whistles are standard equipment.

Our trip took in locations on the R320 Hemel-en-Aarde road, with a visit to two of the splendid wine farms to be found in this beautiful valley. The ride quality of the Patrol was excellent on both the tarred surface and the gravel roads leading to the farms.

Frieda: Our first stop was Bosman Hermanus, a child-friendly winery on the Karwyderskraal Road just beyond the De Bos Dam, which offers light bites to go with their wines and views. On the last Sunday of every month Bosman hosts a Family Fun Day from 12:00 to 15:00 where parents can enjoy a flatbread with a complimentary glass of wine, while the children play on the jungle gym.

Besides vineyards, the farm produces proteas and there are just under 5 ha of Pink Ice, Sylvias, Red Rex and King proteas.

The Patrol was begging for more action and we were keen to take the road upward and onward to continue with our exploration. With so many wineries and farm stalls it is difficult to select one stop only. We took a left at Ataraxia, whose owner/winemaker Kevin Grant is one of four Hermanus winemakers that have been invited to join the ranks of the Cape Winemakers’ Guild – an acknowledgement he

received for his Chardonnay, Under the Gavel.

John: After our sojourns at the wineries we took to the hills with a climb to the top of the Highlands Road, which offered more of a challenge for the big Nissan. The road is in fair condition, with a few rough sections under repair, which the 5.6 litre V8 petrol engine and seven-speed automatic transmission had no issues with. Delivering 298 kW and torque of 560 Nm makes life easy and the suspension demonstrated the ability to turn rough, uneven gravel roads into a freeway – a soft ride but great road holding.

This was all accomplished in 2WD and, for a short while, 4WD High. The grip was excellent, as was the power steering and, amazingly, the Patrol belied its size even on the narrower sections. It really is a remarkably competent vehicle which offers driver confidence whatever the road con-

Open: Tue-Fri: 12:00 - 15:00 | Wed-Sat: 18:00 - 21:00 12 Aberdeen Street, Hermanus | 028 312 4681 www.barefootcookhermanus.co.za | info@barefootcookhermanus.co.za

PERFECT for FUNCTIONS

Private Garden Courtyard & Cosy Fireplace

dition – 272 mm minimum ground clearance means there are not too many places it cannot go.

Frieda: Coffee at the Onion Shed took us halfway between two Cape Epic spectator points – Creation Wines and The One Heaven and Earth. The Onion Shed is only 11,7 km from Caledon but a great pitstop for coffee and cake. It is open from Tuesday to Sunday; during the week from 11:00 to 17:00 and weekends from 08:00 to 18:00.

John: Fuel economy is claimed at an average of 14.4 l/100km – not frugal and a good reason to have the 140-liter fuel tank to provide a reasonable range. The Nissan Patrol is one of those vehicles that is hard to categorise, but it is a truly capable SUV. With a full seven-seat capacity and the ability to haul up to 3 500 kg of braked trailer, the Patrol must rate as one of a kind in the marketplace.

NEW SEASONAL MENU

14 10 | FOOD

What's Cooking

27 March 2019

Eating like an Onrus local

By Hedda Mittner

I

often hear people lamenting the fact that Hermanus is no longer the quaint, peaceful village it used to be. Onrus, on the other hand, has remained virtually unchanged over the past 15 years that I’ve called it home.

Its name (which, roughly translated, means ‘restless’) is a misnomer, as a more tranquil and laid-back neighbourhood would be hard to find.

There is the usual mix of permanent residents and holiday home owners in Onrus, and I can always tell when a long weekend or school holiday has started – there are suddenly more jovial voices and laughter ringing out, music playing in the background and the smell of braaivleis in the air.

As soon as they depart and return to their normal lives, I feel extra privileged that I get to stay right where I am – and that this is my “real life”.

Although Onrus might not offer the same variety and quality of restaurants as Hermanus does, there are a few eateries in this neck of the woods that I gladly support. Eating out in Onrus is a different kind of experience, where you don’t often rub shoulders with tourists; instead, you are more likely to bump into your neighbour or a friend who lives just a few blocks away. The restaurant owners don’t hold their breath waiting for tourists and are more geared towards the locals and regular weekenders who support them all year round.

One such establishment is Molteno’s, which has been one of the locals’ best-kept secrets for over a decade.

Here owner/chef Gordon Wilson has managed to strike exactly the right note – a friendly and relaxed atmosphere matched by the consistently high quality of his food. The décor and the menu are both unpretentious and although it’s not fine dining, the food is delicious and the portions are

Sulet is the kind of person who puts her whole heart into everything she does – and the same goes for her cooking. The Heartbeat Café has become so popular that she now seems to have a success problem on her hands as she can hardly keep up with demand. She not only serves up scrumptious breakfasts, gourmet toasties, burgers and salads, but also bakes the most delectable cheesecake, carrot cake and brownies.

generous. The fish is always great and their pizzas are excellent. Also on the menu are steaks, pasta dishes and the famous ‘Gordon bleu’.

I have never had a bad meal there and, perhaps most importantly, I always know what I’m going to get.

I firmly believe it is that consistency that keeps the locals coming back time and time again, besides the fact that it’s known as “the place where everyone knows your name”. The restaurant and the bar are always packed with familiar faces and an evening at Molteno’s is never anything but a jol.

They are open every evening from 18:00 except on a Tuesday (which is great because they are open on a Monday, when most restaurants are closed). The only day they are open for lunch is on a Sunday, when they add their famous Sunday roast to the menu, but they are closed on Sunday evenings. Find them on the corner of Molteno and Viljoen Streets or call 028 316 2658 to book.

Just a little further down is another welcome addition to the Onrus social scene – the Heartbeat Café. Owned by a bundle of energy and enthusiasm named Sulet Joubert, this little corner shop has become a favourite spot for the locals to meet for breakfast or a light lunch, or just drop in for coffee and cake. Now that Sulet has her liquor license, the Heartbeat Café is staying open later on Fridays for sundowners and tapas-style plates – the perfect way to kick off the weekend.

Sulet spent many years in the catering business and on private yachts before relocating to Onrus. She chose the name Heartbeat because it contains the words ‘art’ and ‘eat’ – two of her favourite things. When she took over the premises two years ago, she extended the kitchen and revamped the interior to create a cosy, homely space which spills over to the outside area, where you can relax and watch the world go by – usually locals walking their dogs or youngsters on their way down to the beach.

Molteno’s is an unassuming neighbourhood restaurant that has been loyally supported by locals, swallows and regular weekenders for over a decade.

There is fresh bread on sale every day, along with home-made quiches, muffins, croissants and Houw Hoek pies and sausage rolls. Not to mention her home-cooked, ready-made meals, which include bobotie, chicken pie and lasagne. They disappear in the blink of an eye, though, so it’s better to place your order beforehand.

Heartbeat Café is open Tuesday to Thursday from 08:00 – 16:00, Friday from 08:00 – 19:00 and Saturday from 08:00 – 14:30. Closed on Sunday and Monday. Call Sulet on 082 441 3344.

The Heartbeat Café is a great spot to meet up with friends during the day or for sundowners on a Friday.

Another favourite destination for Onrus locals is the Milkwood Beach Hut at Onrus beach. Situated below the Milkwood Restaurant, the Beach Hut offers front-row seats to sit back, relax and take in all the action happening on the beach. It can become rather busy over long weekends and holiday periods, but for the rest of the year it is a truly beautiful and tranquil spot to unwind, whether you are solo or in the company of family or friends.

In the mornings you’ll often find older locals stopping off for a coffee while walking their dogs (yes, pooches are welcome, too) while members of the working class usually enjoy a glass of wine and nibbles from the tapas menu as the day draws to a close. If you are feeling fishy, remember that this is the place where you’ll get the best fish ‘n chips anywhere in the Overstrand. Another option is to get your snacks, cooldrinks or ice cream from the kiosk, head down to the beach and enjoy them while digging your toes in the sand.

The Milkwood Beach Hut at Onrus Beach is informal and laid-back, with unsurpassed views across the beach and lagoon.

Contact 028 316 1516.

EVENTS | 15 11

27 March 2019

WINE & DINE LISTINGS

Lau’s Cuisine

At the Village Stall

Village Square

Hemel en Aarde Village T: 028 316 2407

(opp Ocean Basket)

T: 079 474 6781

Sushi 15% discount

Bientang’s Cave

LB Seafood

Old Harbour T: 028 312 3454

Village Square Hermanus T: 028 312 3611

Open daily from 11:00 for lunch & dinner

Biga Artisan Bakery Café

Hornbill House Hemel en Aarde Village T: 028 125 0025

Open Tues – Sun

MOGG’S Restaurant

Caffè Blu

Old Station building, Checkers Centre, Hermanus T: 028 312 4096

Mon-Fri 07:30-17:00 | Sat-Sun 08:00-15:00 | Pub Hol 08:00-15:00

Char’d Grill & Wine Bar

Shop 4, Village Square Market Street T: 028 312 1986

De Vette Mossel

Hemel-en-Aarde Valley Hermanus T: 076 314 0671

Wed-Sun 12:00-14:30 CLOSED Mon & Tue

Ocean Creek Spur

Whale Coast Mall T: 028 312 3095

Mon-Sat 08:00 - 22:00 Sun & Pub Hol 08:00 - 20:00

Oskars

Carriages Centre Shop 7, Hermanus T: 066 174 8263 Mon-Sat 07:30-17:00

Pear Tree

Prawn Flats, Voëlklip T: 064 552 6627 BOOKING ESSENTIAL

Village Square Piazza T: 028 313 1224

EAT Restaurant

Quayside Cabin

Section 4-6, The Village T: 028 316 2348 CLOSED Mon Tue-Sat 11:30-Late | Sun 11:30-15:00

Eden Café

Gateway Centre Hermanus T: 028 312 4439 Gecko Bar

New Harbour Hermanus T: 028 312 4665 Open daily from 11:00-02:00

Harbour Rock

New Harbour Hermanus T: 028 312 2920

New Harbour Hermanus T: 028 313 0752

Lunch 11:30-16:00 | Dinner 18:30-Late

Rossi’s Italian Restaurant

High Street Hermanus T: 028 312 2848 Soul Café

181 Main Road T: 028 313 2137

Tue-Sat 08:00-Late Sun 08:00-14:00

Tapas

7 Harbour Road T: 028 312 4840

7 days a week for lunch

Heritage Cottage

21 Marine Drive Hermanus T: 028 312 2859 OPEN 7 days/week

Karmenaadjie

Van Blommenstein St Onrus T: 028 316 2967 OPEN Tue-Sat 12:00-22:00 | Sun 12:00-16:00

y Grill oëlklip 8 314 1637

The Restaurant @ Newton Johnson

Upper Hemel-en-Aarde Valley T: 021 200 2148

Wed-Sun 12:00-15:00

Walker Bay Grill

121 10th Street Voëlklip T: 028 314 1637

CALL US: 084 688 5885

GAS SUPPLIES

T: 028 312 2020

WHAT’S ON

OVERBERG Thursday

www.thevillagenews.co.za/whatson ent art materials and techniques are used. No art experience is required as this is not an art class but rather an opportunity to get to know yourself on a deeper level, to get out of your comfort zone and reconnect with your creative core. The cost is R300 pp including all materials. Booking is essential. Contact gillianhahn14@ gmail.com or 076 181 2964 or visit www.gillianhahn.com Southern Right Wine Farm, Hemelen-Aarde Valley | 10:00 – 13:00

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BirdLife Overberg outing Join BirdLife Overberg on a morning outing to Stanford where local resident, Richard Masson will lead the group to ‘Appel se Dam’ and along the river on the ‘Wandelpad’. Take along a picnic basket and meet at the parking area of the Eastclif Spar at 07:30, from where transport will be arranged. A R50 petrol levy will apply if you catch a lift. RSVP Elaine at mwjasser@mweb.co.za or 082 455 8402.

Eastcliff Spar | 07:30

Harvest Celebration The Black Oystercatcher team invites you to join them in toasting the end of the harvest at their Long Table Harvest Celebration. There will be wine and craft beer ‘on tap’ (and on the house) throughout the evening and a full Mezze-style dinner, all to the wonderful sounds of the accordion.

Please note that this is an adults-only event. Because it will be an intimate gathering, only a small number of tickets have been released, so be sure to book early. Tickets at R350 pp are available at www.webtickets.co.za Black Oystercatcher Wines, Elim | 18:30

Think & Drink Join Stanford Conservation Trust’s fun quiz evening. Only R150 (bring your own wine) includes a delicious meal and a R50 donation to the trust for the upkeep of Stanford’s beautiful Wandelpad. To book, contact Marian on 083 303 4330 or email stanfordconservationtrust@gmail.com Tikka Palace, Stanford | 18:30 for 19:00 Rotary Club of Hermanus Visitors are welcome at Rotary’s weekly meetings, every Thursday.

Contact Frank on 082 870 1187 to conirm your attendance.

Mollergren Park, Main Road, Hermanus | 19:00

Friday

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Hermanus Hacking Group Volunteers are welcome to join the HHG, every Friday morning, on Rotary Way. For more information contact Charlyn Vosloo on 082 558 8731 or charlynvosloo@gmail.com Rotary Way | 06:45 – 09:00 Bhuki Café Everyone is welcome at Friends of the Library's Bhuki Cafe where a cup of tea or cofee and delicious eats will cost only R25, every Friday. Each cup helps to raise funds for new books.

Hermanus Library | 09:00 – 11:30 Kolwyntjie Teetuin Enjoy a sweet treat and tea or cofee at a nominal fee, and make new friends at the Onrus Care Centre, every Friday morning.

Onrus Dutch Reformed Church | 09:30 – 11:30

Benguela Music Trivia Fridays Test your wine knowledge, mixed up with some general knowledge and music questions, at this fun quiz evening hosted by Piano Ben on the last Friday of every month. The cost is R30 pp, of which R10 is donated to the Hermanus Night Shelter. Stand a chance of winning a case of Matilda’s Secret wine. To book, contact 087 357 0637 or info@benguelacove.co.za Benguela Cove Tasting Room | 19:00

FOOD & WINE BAR

29 March: Akkedis 5 April: Mark Haze 7 Harbour Road T: 028 312 4840

Stanford Sunset Market This much-loved, local and lekker outdoor market brings friends and family, good food and wine, live music, gifts, crafts, books and charities all together on Stanford’s Market Square. Locally-sourcing vendors who ly the eco-banner high are given preference and every efort is made to keep waste and non-recyclable rubbish to a minimum. We'll keep your toes tapping while your children run and play on the unspoilt Heritage Square. Plenty of seating and parking available.

Stanford Market Square | 18:00 – 20:00

Akkedis live performance Catch Akkedis, dubbed ‘the stepchildren of South African rock ‘n roll’, at this popular late-night venue. The infamous Dennis-twins, Arthur and Rudolph, together with Adrian John Graham, will entertain you with the timeless rock sound South Africans have known and enjoyed for over two decades. Entry is free but booking is advised. Call 028 312 4840.

Tapas Food & Wine Bar | from 20:00

Saturday

children are most welcome.

Camphill Road, Hemel-en-Aarde Valley | 08:00 Betty’s Bay parkrun Join this free weekly 5 km timed run (or walk) where it’s only you against the clock. The whole family is welcome. Grab a post-run cofee in the Red Disa restaurant with fellow parkrunners.

Harold Porter Botanical Garden | 08:00 Church Bazaar The Dutch Reformed Church in Onrus will be hosting their annual bazaar.

Bring the whole family and enjoy a variety of products for sale. For enquiries, call 028 316 2116.

DRC, Berg Street, Onrus | from 09:00 Urban Farmer Workshop Learn how to grow your own food at this hands-on workshop that will focus on the various aspects of establishing an organic vegetable garden. The cost is R400 pp, including tea, cofee and refreshments, as well as course material, a planting calendar and potted plant. Booking is essential as space is limited. Payment secures your spot. Banking details: Ability Garden, First National Bank, Account no. 625 7578 0450, Branch code 200412. Use name & surname as reference. For enquiries, contact Nikki Swanepoel on 072 436 1497 or nikki. swanepoel@gmail.com Ability House, Church Street, Hawston | 09:00 – 13:00

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Hermanus parkrun Meet for the weekly 5 km timed walk or run, come rain or shine. Run for your own enjoyment at your own pace. The route is dog friendly and

Market in the Garden Hunt for treasures at this peaceful market set among the shady trees of a beautiful garden.

St Peter’s Church, Main Road, Hermanus | 09:00 – 13:00

Hermanus Country Market A favourite among the locals. Young, old, two-legged and four-legged family members are all welcome. You’ll ind wholesome goodies, homemade crafts, local produce, beers and wine, speciality foods, cofee and live music.

Next to Hermanus Cricket Field | 09:00 – 13:00 Die Markie Where local and international foodies and wine lovers meet. You’ll ind real plates and real cutlery; real cups and real glasses; a real hangout for real people.

Hermanuspietersfontein wine cellar | 09:00 – 13:00 Stanford Saturday Morning Market Come and sample the artisanal delights on display, from home-made sheep and goats’ cheeses to cured meats, farm-fresh vegetables and deli delights to tantalise your taste buds!

Stanford Hotel Stoep | 09:00 – 12:00 Junktique Market One man’s junk is another’s treasure.

Come and browse to your heart’s content, every last Saturday of the month. If you’d like to book a spot at this market, contact 028 341 0340 or oice@stanfordinfo.co.za Stanford Tourism Courtyard | 09:00 – 12:00 Gansbaai Farmer’s Market Specialising in organic, homemade and homegrown products such as fresh farm produce, oven-fresh bakes and pastries, local wines and craft beers, and indigenous plants and herbs. No plastic or polystyrene packaging, only eco-friendly wood, paper, glass and earthenware used to display goods. For enquiries, contact 028 384 1439 or doulene@gansbaaitourism.co.za Kapokblom Street, opposite Gansbaai Tourism | 09:00 – 14:00 Connect to your Creative Core Join local artist Gillian Hahn for a multi-media workshop where difer-

Stargazing Catch some starlight with the Southern Cape Astronomy Club. Two of the targets on the evening will be the globular cluster NGC 5139, also known as Omega Centauri, and the open cluster M46 with the planetary nebula NGC 2438 appearing within it.

For further information contact Kos Coronaios at elephantcastle@lantic. net or 079 148 4934.

Village Green, Pearly Beach | 19:30

Sunday

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Summer Fun in the Courtyard Enjoy oysters and bubbly, local wines, craft beer and tapas-style plates, every Sunday. For more info or to reserve a table, call 082 082 0007.

The Wine Glass, 2 Harbour Road, Hermanus | from 12:00 OAK Concert Overstrand Arts/Kunste presents an afternoon concert featuring three talented young musicians, Gerhard Joubert and Seiren Wie (piano) and Humbane Sakhile (lute). Tickets at R150 pp (R60 for students) are available at the Tourism Oice in Mitchell Street (Tel: 028 312 2629). Contact René du Plooy on 082 940 4238 for any enquiries.

Municipal Auditorium | 15:30

Monday

1

The Ancient Greeks The last lecture in U3A Overberg’s series on the Ancient Greeks will cover the following topics: The Delphic Oracle, The Oedipus Story, The Decline of Athens, The Rise of Macedon, Hellenistic Greece, and Roman Greece.

Catholic Church Hall | 10:00 Figure Drawing class Figure drawing is one of the inest methods to develop hand-eye coordination and thus the ability to accurately draw what one sees. This class, focusing on improving observation and interpretation skills, will be ofered every Monday for 5 weeks, starting on 1 April. R350 per class. Pay in advance for the whole month and get a 15% discount. Only 8 spots are

Tuesday

available and a minimum of 4 bookings are needed to secure the model.

For more information, call Leoni on 082 9255 663.

Venue TBA | 13:00 – 16:00 Oil Painting evening class Local artist Leoni Aucamp is offering evening art classes in oil painting every Monday for 5 weeks, starting on 1 April. R300 per class. Pay in advance for the whole month and get a 15% discount. Only 8 spots available. For more information, call Leoni on 082 9255 663.

Venue TBA | 17:30 - 21:00 Cosmology Join the Hermanus Astronomy Centre for a presentation on Natural Philosophy: Science for the non-Scientist.

Contact pierre@hermanus.co.za for more information.

Catholic Church Hall | 19:00

2

The World’s Greatest Geological Wonders U3A Overberg continues its DVD course by Prof Michael Wysession of Washington University, USA with a presentation on Uluru/Ayres Rock, Australia – Sacred Nature of Rocks, and on Antarctica – A World of Ice. Catholic Church Hall | 10:00

Wednesday

3

Graze Farmer’s Market Reduce your carbon footprint and get your fresh veggies – always seasonal, always fresh. Stay for coffee and breakfast. For more info, call Tabby & Alex on 076 243 1930.

Graze Slow Food Café, Stanford | 09:00 – 12:00 Home Industries Market Get your fresh micro-greens, home-processed and home-baked goodies at this family- and pet-friendly market, every Wednesday. New vendors are welcome. Contact Lani on 082 679 7819 or visit www.afdaksrivier.co.za Café Tango & Afdaksrivier Nursery | 09:30 – 12:30

Oil Painting day class Local artist Leoni Aucamp is offering day art classes every Wednesday for 4 weeks, starting on 3 April. R300 per class. Pay in advance for the whole month and get a 15% discount. Only 8 spots available. For more information, call Leoni on 082 9255 663.

Venue TBA | 10:30 - 14:00

Thursday

Sunday

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4

Hermanus Bird Club Everyone is welcome to join the club on their monthly walk. The April outing will be to Meer-en-See, led by local resident and keen birder, Ian Glenn. Participants will meet in Onrus to consolidate transport. For more info, contact Chairman John Saunders on 028 316 2302 or antares@ hermanus.co.za Onrus Trading Post | 07:00

Friday

but booking is advised. Call 028 312 4840.

Tapas Food & Wine Bar | from 20:00

5

Mark Haze live performance The talented Mark oozes rock ‘n roll but also dabbles in various music genres. Music lovers might remember his stint on Idols SA Season 7 (he came second). Come and enjoy his powerful guitar riffs at Hermanus’ popular late-night venue. Entry is free

Nataniël Gesels Don’t miss Nataniël, one of South Africa’s favourite entertainers, when he comes to Hermanus to tell his humorous stories. It promises to be a unique experience! Tickets at R200 pp are available at www.itickets.co.za Curro Hermanus | 11:00 (doors open at 10:30)

GOT AN EVENT?

Send us an email to events@thevillagenews.co.za or send us a WhatsApp to 067 770 7629.

FREE for community & non-profit organisations R300 for pop-up ads

20 14 | BOOKS

27 March 2019

What’s new in review

Compiled by Hedda Mittner

This is the inspiring true story of a father and son's ight to stay together and survive the Holocaust. Vienna, 1939.

Nazi police seize Gustav Kleinmann, a Jewish upholsterer and his son, Fritz, and send the pair to Buchenwald.

There began an unimaginable ordeal that saw them beaten, starved and forced to build the very concentration camp they were held in. When Gustav was set to be transferred to Auschwitz, a certain death sentence, his son refused to leave his side. Throughout the horrors they witnessed and the sufering they endured, there was one constant that kept them alive: the love between father and son. Based on Gustav's secret diary and meticulous archive research, this book tells their incredible, emotionally devastating story for the irst time – one that is a reminder of both the best and the worst of humanity, the strength of family ties, and the power of the human spirit.

– penguin.co.uk

In 1958, Sylvia Blackwell, fresh from one of the new postwar Library Schools, takes up a job as children's librarian in a run-down library in the market town of East Mole. Her mission is to ire the enthusiasm of the children of East Mole for reading. But her love afair with the local married GP, and her befriending of his precocious daughter, her neighbour's son and her landlady's neglected grandchild, ignite the prejudices of the town, threatening her job and the very existence of the library, with dramatic consequences for them all.

Salley Vickers, who once said, “Thanks to my upbringing, my books have a tenderness for misits”, won wide acclaim for The Cleaner of Chartres and Miss Garnet’s Angel. With this charmingly subversive novel she has created a moving testament to the joy of reading and the power of books to change and inspire us all.

– penguin.co.uk

In this collection by the Nobel prize-winning author – widely, ardently considered to be one of the world’s best writers – there are 40 years of her essays, speeches and meditations, including her thoughts and arguments about politics, particularly on questions of racism, tribalism and bigotry, about art and writing. The book contains exhortations and transcribed question-and-answer sessions, relections and analyses, exegeses and commencement talks. In other words, it’s a large, rich, heterogeneous book. One is tempted to quote at length from her words: her acuity and moral clarity are dazzling, but so is her vision for how we might ind our way towards a less unjust, less hateful future.

Race bias, she notes, “is not absolute, inevitable, or immutable”. What’s more, “it has a beginning, a life, a history in scholarship, and it can have an end.”

– theguardian.com

In the spring of 1970, a Pretoria schoolboy falls in love with Muhammad Ali. He begins to collect cuttings about his hero from the newspapers, an obsession that grows into a ragged archive of scrapbooks.

Forty years later, when Joe has become a writer, these scrapbooks both insist on and obscure a book about his boyhood. He turns to his brother Branko, a sound editor, for help with recovering their shared past. But can a story ever belong equally to two people? Against a spectacular backdrop, the heyday of the greatest showman of them all, award-winning South African author Vladislavić unfolds a small, fragmentary story of family life and the limitations of language. In this intricate puzzle of a book, meaning comes into view in the spaces between then and now, growing up and growing old, speaking out and keeping silent.

– penguinrandomhouse.co.za

It’s 1961. The Burns family is celebrating yet another disastrous Thanksgiving and 17-year-old Alice can’t take it anymore. After years spent chasing the afections of the people who are supposed to love her unconditionally, Alice is beginning to realise that, though you can’t choose your family, you can choose your future – and she sees hers far away from her dysfunctional family and the doldrums of small-town life. As she embarks on a journey that will take her through college, heartbreak, and self-discovery, Alice must learn to stand on her own two feet in the great wide open. But no matter how much distance she covers, the past is never far behind… This is an ambitious and compulsive saga by international best-selling author Douglas Kennedy; a novel which will speak volumes to anyone who has marvelled at that pain that can only be caused by family itself.

- goodreads.com

Drawing on the true history of ‘Farini’s Friendly Zulus’, a group of men who were taken to Britain and then to America as performing curiosities, this new novel

by Zakes Mda opens in 1885 in wintry New York City. The protagonist, Mpiyezintombi, simply called Em-Pee by the English-speakers, is seen as little more than a freak-show act – though he is not kept in a cage like the beautiful Dinka Princess, with her gold-painted papier-mâché crown and fur cape. For EmPee, it is love at irst sight, but the caged woman is not free to love anyone back: she is the property of Monsieur Duval, proprietor of Duval Ethnological Expositions. And so begins one of this celebrated author’s most striking stories, one that depicts terrible historical injustices and indignities, while at the same time celebrating the vigour and ingenuity of the creative spirit, and the transformative power of love.

– goodreads.com

Michael Joseph

Penguin Random House

Penguin Random House

Umuzi

Penguin Random House

Umuzi

ober t

Colle g

e St

Magnolia St

Follow the Book Trail to uncover an eclectic mix of bookshops in Hermanus

Dirk

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St ell

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Park Lane

Mari

Find us at our new shop on Station Square (next to Brasserie South)

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The Book Cottage

Shop 1 32 Mitchell Street T: 028 313 0834

2

2

Carriages Centre (near Woolworths) T: 072 753 8940

3

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rin Ma

Hig

Long St

R43

s Rd

1

t hS

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1

Lord R

R43

The Book Trail

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3

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bookmark

Twin Gables 171 Main Road T: 028 312 2000

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Main Rd Harbou

Old Harbour r Rd

Royal Centre 141 Main Road T: 078 120 0120

BOOKS | 21 15

27 March 2019

Henri Kuiper: Chronicle of a life and an era Writer Elaine Davie

T

o reach the age of 95 is no mean feat; to have lived through almost a century of some of the most momentous events and seismic upheavals this country has seen, is worth writing about, especially if you have been at the rock face for much of that time.

Will to Win – The Life Story of Henri Kuiper (as told to David Hilton-Barber) was launched on Saturday 23 March in the courtyard of Walker Bay Art Gallery. It is the chronicle of a remarkable man and his equally redoubtable wife of 71 years, against the backdrop of a country caught up in a cauldron of racial conlict, violence and rebirth.

Most retirees would be proud to look back on one successful career; Henri Kuiper reached the top of the tree in a multiplicity of diverse careers.

Something of a ‘wunderkind’, at the age of 17 he went straight from school at St John’s College, Johannesburg into a SAAF pilot training course and on completion joined the RAF as a fighter pilot, serving with distinction in both the North African and Italian campaigns of the Second World War. This experience at a very young age,

set the tone for the rest of his life.

Having discovered that in order to survive you have to win at all costs, this was the principle he applied to everything he did in his professional life. On returning to Johannesburg at the end of the war, he registered for a law degree at Wits University, where he was tutored in Latin by a young Classics lecturer called Cecilia (known to all as Ghanie) Hugo. It was love at first sight for Henri and a year later they were married.

That 71-year-old relationship has been the cornerstone of Henri’s life, to which he paid full tribute at the book launch on Saturday. (Sadly Ghanie was not present, as she had had a fall that morning.) It was she who kept Henri on track, who was not averse to giving him a reality check when she felt he was getting beyond himself, who played the major role in bringing up their four children and who continued to live a life of meaning in her own right as a creative and enthusiastic gardener and a skilled sportswoman and linguist.

Professionally, Henri was admitted to the Bar and served as an advocate for several years before being nudged in the direction of the newspaper business where he became Manager of the ailing Rand Daily Mail/Sunday Times Group. Less than 10 years after the Nationalist Party had ascended

to power, it was the beginning of a torrid period for the Fourth Estate, especially the liberal Rand Daily Mail.

In his book, Henri acknowledges the exceptional mentors who showed him the ropes, supported and encouraged him throughout his many careers. His story is awash with a Who’s Who of the prominent names in the corporate, newspaper and professional world, most of whom played a positive role in his life, but there were those with whom he clashed, too, leaving blood on the loor.

After launching the prestigious Financial Mail, he left the newspaper industry and proceeded to become a merchant banker at City Bank and then Director of several blue chip companies like Standard Bank and Wooltru. At the age of 47, he decided to ‘retire’, uprooting Ghanie and his children from their comfortable way of life in Johannesburg, and transporting them to the Elgin Valley in the Overberg, where he had bought an apple farm with a run-down farm house, called Bergendal. Of course, this was not retirement, but a 3600 career change. Although Henri knew absolutely nothing about farming, this did not deter him in the least.

He was soon making waves in the Deciduous Fruit Board and went on to own several other farms, includ-

ing the Lomond Wine Farm near Gansbaai and a citrus farm in the Theewaterskloof district, all of them in partnership with his farm manager, Wayne Gabb who, with his wife Caroline, now lives in Onrus.

When he and Ghanie finally did retire to Hermanus in their mid-70s, Henri entered into what he has described as perhaps the most satisfying period of his life. In 2002, having assembled a high-level Board of Trustees, he launched the Enlighten Education Trust as an NPO, with the aim of ‘improving the quality of teaching, learning and life in the Overstrand’.

Under his active and energetic Chairmanship and subsequently that of educationist, Allan Powell, the organisation has continued to expand its services, currently improving the quality of education for thousands of children from pre-school level to Grade 12, together with hundreds of local teachers who benefit from programmes to upgrade their skills.

Henri remains a hands-on and supportive Life President.

relationships were all conducted on a win/lose basis – with me as the winner – to a win/win one. I have learnt that everyone is unique, each person has something valuable to contribute. I suppose that’s what ubuntu is about. Whereas people used to work under me, now I have learnt to work with them; teamwork is all-important.

Surrounded by his many friends and admirers, several of whom paid tribute to him at the book launch, the last word inevitably fell to Henri.

He admitted that this second phase of his life had transformed him from being a “hardnosed, aggressive businessman, where my inter-personal

Will to Win has been a collaborative project between Henri and writer/ publisher David Hilton-Barber, for which both must be congratulated.

Copies are available at most book stores in Hermanus at R200. Read it: it is a fascinating account of the life of a remarkable man and his times.

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22 16 | NATURE

27 March 2019

A ‘tree-mendous’ festival Writer Sarah Taylor If you want to get something done, make it fun. This sentiment has been very successfully realised by Misha and Lauren Teasdale, the co-founders of the ‘chari-tree’ Greenpop, and François and Melissa Krige, the owners of Platbos Forest.

Since 2010, Greenpop has been joining forces with the Kriges to extend the ancient forest near Gansbaai with annual Reforest Fests, over two weekends: a Family Fest and a Friends Fest.

In the last nine years, this has resulted in the planting of about 60 000 saplings across some 11 hectares of largely degraded, former agricultural or alien-infested land.

What makes a conservationist? and summoning the plough snails from under the sand. Many of the learners had seen (or even eaten) some of these creatures, but had never observed how they feed or pondered on what their roles are in maintaining the natural balance of a sandy beach.

By Anina Lee

ver the last few days of the first school term, Whale Coast Conservation presented an ecology course for the Grade 10 class at Hermanus High School. Fernkloof Nature Reserve, steeped in natural beauty, was the ideal venue.

O

Seeing these lively intelligent young people, I wondered what their future career paths might turn out to be. Would any of them aspire to become conservationists? What does it actually take to be a conservationist and what line of study is required?

The course, run by WCC’s Sheraine van Wyk (with a little help from her friends and colleagues), included both lessons and microscopic investigations. The learners looked at the structure of the different parts of a plant - roots, stems, leaves, (morphology) and how these structures are designed to allow the plant to take up water and minerals, breathe oxygen, make sugars from carbon dioxide and water, and transport the sugars to the parts of the plant where they are needed for energy (physiology).

People make the biggest contributions when they do what they actually do best, not what they think conservation needs. So many people want to get involved in conservation but believe that means biology, radio tracking animals, defending animals from poachers, doing research, doing science.

They took a walk up the mountain to study fynbos ecology and visited an abalone farm to see how abalone is grown commercially. Some of the learners participated in an after-dark survey of chameleons in Fernkloof Nature Reserve that generated valuable information about the habitat needs of Cape Dwarf Chameleons in Hermanus. The ecology of an ancient milkwood forest and the criteria for a Blue Flag Beach were also on the menu.

A study of the ecology of a sandy beach was probably the most fun for the learners as it meant getting wet. It involved, amongst other more serious things, digging for sand mussels

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Misha, Greenpop’s ‘tree-ee-oh’, was previously a high-flyer, literally, in the advertising industry.

After one particularly expensive four-month trip in which he racked up 360 000 air miles, he and a colleague decided to plant 1 000 trees in a month to offset their carbon footprints.

This planted the seed for Greenpop, which the Teasdales launched in 2010.

While some of the trees in the 60-hectare Platbos (50 of which are owned by the Kriges) are estimated to be at least 1 000 years old, the rootstock may be considerably older, says François. The ‘reforested’ trees have been nurtured by him and his small nursery team from tiny seedlings on the forest floor, which do not otherwise survive in the dark, forested areas.

The trees are bladder nut, hard pear, white stinkwood, white milkwood, wild peach, white pear, wild olive and pock ironwood, which are also sold at the Platbos nursery. When they are about two years old, they are ready to be planted out. The nursery is impressive: before this year’s festival it contained some 25 000 saplings.

For more information, visit www.platbos. co.za or www.greenpop.org

PHOTO: Ilana van der Merwe

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“These festivals just get better and better,” says Francois. “I have a huge appreciation for all the work done to help extend Platbos. The kind of people who attend the Reforest Fests show great respect and are very protective of

But conservation is also about politics, economics, awareness, education, law enforcement, socio-ecology and social justice. It is a mistake to think that conservation is just biology, or that conservation science is necessarily conservation. If anyone wants to do conservation and make a big difference, then look at your skills and use those skills to help.

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This year, 9 750 trees were planted at Africa’s southernmost indigenous forest over the two weekends, with 1 200 festival ‘planters’ paying to help regrow Platbos. The 90-strong Greenpop crew, including many interns/volunteers, ensured that the two weekends were productive and enjoyable, and everything went without a hitch. Greenpop helped raise R500 000 for Platbos this year, the most ever.

the forest. As the festival happens mostly in the firebreak, there is minimal impact on the environment.”

T: 082 454 8329 E: rbradshaw@vodamail.co.za A: 24 Green Mountain Estate, Sandbaai

27 March 2019

23 17

www.thevillagenews.co.za

MY PET Warning signs you shouldn’t ignore Writer Dr Hilldidge Beer

hypothyroidism and cats from hyperthyroidism, or high hormone levels.

Dogs with hypothyroidism become lethargic and put on weight, while cats with hyperthyroidism have excessive energy levels and eat a lot, yet lose weight.

P

ets are sentient beings that experience the same discomforts we do; cold, heat, hunger and pain; yet they hide their pain far more effectively than humans. That’s because in the wild, an ill or injured animal is vulnerable to attack, so they mask their pain as best they can.

Itchy skin If your dog or cat is constantly licking and biting himself or pulling out his fur, he could be suffering an allergy.

Food allergies are relatively common, but they can be difficult to isolate, so it is always best to ask your vet for help.

As pet owners, we need to be aware of this because by the time they yelp or cower in pain, the disease or injury that plagues them is probably already far advanced and could be difficult to treat.

Flea allergies are very common; only 5% of adult fleas can be seen with the naked eye, so your pet may be infested without you even knowing it. Ask your EberVet Vetshop for help with flea preventives; there are highly effective formulas that protect your dog or cat for several months.

Here are some early warning signs: Drinking excessively Kidney disease is one of the most common illnesses likely to affect our pets; yet, because symptoms only appear after 75% of kidney function has already been lost, early detection is vitally important. An increase in thirst may be one of the first signs. Also look out for house-soiling, reduced appetite, weight loss, and bad breath.

hindquarters on the ground, they may be infested with tapeworm. Look for dried, white, grain-like segments in faeces or under your pet’s tail. Your EberVet Vetshop carries a range of dewormers that last several months.

blood in the urine too.

Cats with diabetes also tend to drink a lot of water. If diabetes isn’t diagnosed soon enough, a serious condition known as ketoacidosis can develop. See your vet immediately.

Urinating outside of the litter box, or on beds, in baths or on the floor could also indicate diabetes, kidney failure, and arthritis. Don’t ignore this behaviour or scold your cat. The sooner you see your vet, the greater the chances of successful treatment.

Urinating in inappropriate places Cats are, by nature, solitary animals and multiple cat households may be stressful for some. Stressed cats can develop interstitial cystitis, a painful inflammation of the bladder, which may cause them to urinate in inappropriate places. You might notice

Dragging hind quarters on the ground Even pampered pets from clean homes carry worms and unfortunately only two kinds can be seen with the naked eye. Some infestations cause few or no symptoms. If you see your dog or cat dragging his or her

Coughing or wheezing This is often an early sign of congestive heart failure. Congestion builds up in the lungs if the left side of the heart is failing, illing the tiny sacs with fluid where normally only air should be. This fluid makes exchanging oxygen more diicult. The pet has to take more breaths to absorb the same amount of oxygen. This increases the breathing rate and effort,

sometimes causing a cough.

Sleeping a lot, refusing exercise Like humans, many pets suffer arthritis as they age, and it can be extremely painful. It can also be particularly hard to spot because they simply become less active, which the owner may interpret as ‘normal’ for an older pet. Other symptoms include licking or biting a limb, limping, irritability, inability to jump onto things or climb into the litter tray.

Weight loss in cats and weight gain in dogs This is an early indication of thyroid issues; dogs commonly suffer from

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Feather pulling in birds Feather pulling may start because of irritation from a medical condition and progress to obsessive-compulsive behaviour. Common causes include bacterial infection, food allergy, stress, boredom, sexual frustration and hypothyroidism.

If your pets display any of the symptoms above, it is best to see your vet for a diagnosis. The sooner the ailment is identified, the more successful the treatment.

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24 18

27 March 2019

www.thevillagenews.co.za

MY HOME GAS INSTALLATIONS

T: 028 312 2020 A: 8 Arum St, Hermanus Industrial

Don’t neglect maintenance of appreciating assets By Stuart Cohen

W

hen times are tough and the economy is pinching the consumer from all sides, we often have to balance the budget to attend to priorities like home maintenance and the servicing of vehicles and operating equipment. Yet, how strange is it that so often we throw money at depreciating assets and ignore the ones that over time will give us growth way beyond that of a savings or investment account.

We happily (or not) respond to our vehicle’s need for regular servicing and maintenance and as much of a “grudge buy” as it is, we do it. Yet we leave our homes, particular second or holiday homes, to fall into a state of disrepair to such an extent that when

one is forced to do something about it, the costs seem so exorbitant that we resist, complain (even if it is just to ourselves) and find reasons to do nothing.

The reality of the property market is that the better the state of your home, the better the investment growth and selling price when you put it on the market. If you are a longterm investor, then you know that over time your property value will grow incrementally. Maintaining it on a regular basis will keep it high in the value stakes.

The better maintained the property has been over the years, the less of an expense it will be to prepare the property when the time comes to sell. Living at the coast presents its own challenges when it comes to choosing materials to use for external applications, all of which come with a lifetime maintenance cost.

It becomes a fight between what’s

aesthetically pleasing and what’s practical and low maintenance. One’s personal taste will more often than not win over practicality and become the tick in the box for lots of maintenance in the years ahead.

The ideal scenario is to have a home-maintenance plan that addresses maintenance issues as they arise. You won’t hesitate to take your vehicle in for a service when it is due, so why not apply the same mind-set to what is likely to be one of your biggest lifetime investments. That way you spread the overall cost over a longer period of time, rather than having to take a big hit with one massive maintenance project that will no doubt leave you seething at the unexpected hole left in your wallet.

We often forget that depreciating assets, as much as they are needed, are just that and when quantifying the potential return from appreciating assets, it should be a no-brainer

as to where we should be planning our spend. The challenge of having to do last-minute fixes inevitably means not having enough time to get comparative quotations from a selection of service providers and thereby making the mistake of selecting the wrong one, often based purely on price.

The Afrikaans adage “goedkoop is duurkoop” (loosely translated to “paying cheap prices will prove the be more expensive in the long run”) is indeed 100% accurate. More often

than not, a cheap repair results in an even more expensive re-work, which negates the value of the “cheap” repair from the outset and can more than double the cost of having done it right the first time. Crisis management may solve a short-term problem but could very well result in excessive costs when the problem recurs. In the same way as we plan maintenance on depreciating assets, so we should ensure that we do the same with those assets that will give us a real return on the related investment.

Are you interested in Stuart Cohen or our other My Home writers?

Visit us online at thevillagenews.co.za/category/my-life/home/ to read more articles: • Hermanus property market in a perfect storm • Hermanus residential rental market is misfiring • Airbnb hosting: To be or not to be • The clock is ticking for property sellers • The 1% rule: your guide whether buying or renting • Choose the right grass for your pocket and planet • Reducing fire risk by design

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Local family offers exchange student a safe haven Writer Hedda Mittner

L

iving in Africa has given me a whole new perspective on life,” says Tabea Tietze from Lüneburg in Germany, who recently arrived in Hermanus as a Rotary Youth Exchange student. “I appreciate every little thing that I used to take for granted, such as electricity, clean water and even just walking into a shop to buy a yoghurt or something.”

The 17-year-old Tabea left her home town near Hamburg seven months ago to spend a year living in Zimbabwe. She was hosted by two different families in Harare and attended the Dominican Convent High School. Even though life in Zimbabwe was very different, and at times challenging, Tabea says she loved the friendly people and enjoyed learning about their culture.

However, when the post-election violence in Zimbabwe escalated, it was decided to transfer Tabea to a host family in South Africa and she is now safely installed with the Koen family in Hermanus. Tamsin and Louis Koen, the owners of Just Pure, and their 16-year-old daughter, Kirsten, have already bonded with Tabea in a few short weeks. When the new school term starts, she’ll attend Hermanus High School with Kirsten until she goes back home at the end of June.

Tabea, who speaks very good English, says she was very impressed with how hard-working and diligent the pupils at the Dominican Convent were. “School started at 7am and we only got home at about 4 in the afternoon,” she says. “I also had to wear a uniform for the first time, but I didn’t mind because it actually made me feel proud and gave me a sense of belonging. The school offers a lot of extra-curricular activities that I enjoyed participating in, such as debates, competitions and cultural events. We don’t have that in Germany.”

But there were challenges, too. “I read a lot,” laughs Tabea, as she recalls the frequent power outages. “We often had no electricity – and therefore no WiFi – for days on end and even generators were of no use as there wasn’t any diesel available. The shortage of fuel resulted in endless queues and being without power also meant being without water.”

Tabea says it was very difficult to see how her host family was suffering, especially when the value of the Zimbabwean currency plummeted. “Their money was suddenly worthless and everything was prohibitively expensive.

We had no bread because there was no flour and other staples such as cooking oil. We ate mealie meal and rice three times a day.”

Now that she is in Hermanus and staying with a family known for their bistro’s deliciously healthy and wholesome food, Tabea already has her glow back. She enjoys going to the gym with Kirsten, cycling and taking long walks on the beach. The girls will be doing as much of that as possible before the new school term starts next week.

“Tabea has demonstrated exceptional courage, compassion, strength of character, and the ability to adapt,” says the President of Hermanus Rotary, Ann Wright. These are exactly the qualities that Rotary looks for in an exchange student.

Eligibility requirements include above-average academic performance, leadership skills, and being between the ages of 15 and 19.

Additional considerations are a candidate’s ability to adapt to changing surroundings and host families, proficiency in or commitment to learning the language of the host country, openness to participating in the host country’s cultural activities and customs, enthusiasm for sharing perspectives and culture of their home country with members of the host community, and the ability to positively represent Rotary as an ambassador for peace and understanding.

ABOVE: Rotary exchange student, Tabea Tietze (third from left) with Kirsten Koen, Ann Wright (President of Hermanus Rotary) and Tamsin Koen.

PHOTO: Hedda Mittner

“Living in a foreign country is a powerful way to gain global understanding and instil goodwill,” says Ann. “Through the Rotary Youth Exchange programme, students learn a new language, discover different cultures and customs, and make friendships that last a lifetime.

They are also empowered to create positive change in the world.”

LEFT: Tabea and Kirsten were treated to a traditional African make-over at the Zwelihle Youth Café.

PHOTO: Leijla Steyn

Tabea’s older sister, who was also a Rotary exchange student and lived in Ecuador for a year, is now doing voluntary work at a school for disabled children in Kenya. Tabea says she would also like to return to Zimbabwe one day to help the people in a sustainable way.

“For example, rather than asking for food donations, I would like to educate people on how to grow their own food to sustain their families,” she says.

Rotary clubs around the world host exchange students in more than 100 countries. Shortterm exchanges last from several days to three months and are often structured as youth camps, tours or home stays that take place when school is not in session. Long-term exchanges, as in Tabea’s case, last a full academic year. Students live with multiple families in the host country and are required to attend school.

For more information, visit www.rotary.org

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MY SPORT

Conversing with a cricketing legend By Tony O'Hagan

I

Internationals. He has an excellent batting average of 47.75, coming in at number 5 or 6 in the batting order, and also has 7 wickets to his name in ODIs.

t was a rare privilege for me when Duncan Fletcher, former Head Coach of the English and Indian national cricket teams, agreed to a meeting last week to discuss his illustrious career. So, how did the Head Coach of these two great cricket nations decide to settle in Hermanus?

After playing in Zimbabwe, Duncan immigrated to South Africa in 1984 and took up the position of player / coach at the University of Cape Town.

This was followed by his appointment as Director of Cricket for Western Province, which included the portfolio of the Union's Head Coach.

“I was looking to live on a golf estate which is near the centre of the town.

My good friend, Andrew Golding suggested Hermanus. On viewing the property and the golf course, my wife and I made a quick decision,” says Duncan.

His reputation and success had spread beyond our borders and after five years in the Western Cape, Duncan made his first foray abroad in 1996, when he was appointed as coach of the English county team, Glamorgan. This, after he had had a stint coaching the South African A-side.

That was 10 years ago. Since then, Duncan, an accomplished golfer, can often be found walking the fairways of the Hermanus Golf Club.

Born in Harare in 1948, Duncan represented Zimbabwe in six ODI

On arrival in the United Kingdom, he made an immediate impression with his coaching and training techniques, which were an eye-opener to the English cricket community. Duncan

coached Glamorgan in 1997 and gained immediate success, winning the County Championships that year.

News of Duncan Fletcher and his achievements could now be heard in the corridors of the England and Wales Cricket Board oices. This culminated in his appointment as Head Coach of the England cricket team in 1999, replacing David Lloyd.

Immediate success came with away-series wins against Sri Lanka, Pakistan, the West Indies and South Africa, together with eight consecutive test victories, a record for England. His most famous achievement was recorded in September 2005, when he became the first coach of an English team to win The Ashes series for 18 years, after England completed a 2-1 series win against Australia.

In recognition of this achievement Duncan was conferred with an O.B.E. In the same year, he was awarded British citizenship. In 2007, he resigned his position as the national coach for England. It was in this

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Duncan Fletcher enjoying the fairways of Hermanus Golf Course. year that his autobiography, Behind the Shades was published. Duncan returned to South Africa and performed the role of consultant to the South African Cricket Team before taking the coaching reins of the Indian Cricket Team in 2011. Accolades again followed as, under his guidance, the Indian team completed eight series victories, including the prestigious Champions’ Trophy. The Indian contract ended in 2015.

Duncan feels that for this year’s Cricket World Cup it is diicult to pick a winner: "I wouldn't know who to put my money on," he says. He thinks there are a number of teams in the reckoning. In Duncan's opinion, ''The standard of cricket has dropped and most teams are pretty weak."

As far as South Africa is concerned, he is adamant about one thing: "Aiden Markram is a stand-out player and should never have been left out of the ODI team."

He makes the comparison with Jacques Kallis, who was given a long early run in his career despite a few failures. "Kallis had the backing of the senior management," he said. On the topic of Kallis, it is interesting to note how both he and Mark Boucher looked to Duncan for advice and mentorship throughout their careers.

Duncan is a passionate rugby follower and was keen to act as a consultant in this sporting discipline. "I love my rugby,” he said. “I would rather watch rugby than cricket. I am passionate about the game. It's the game I'd like to have been involved in." (Maybe he has some ideas for Springbok coach Rassie Erasmus!)

Having endured the highs and lows in the cauldron of two great cricketing nations, Duncan, an accomplished golfer, now has birdies and eagles in his sights. Enjoy the beauty of Hermanus, Duncan and especially the Club’s wonderful golf course.

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Hi-Tec Xtreme adds stage races to event mix

A

two-day MTB stage race, a two-day trail running stage race and a night run have been added to the event mix offered by the Hi-Tec Walkerbay Xtreme (WBX), a multiday adventure sports festival returning to Hermanus for a fourth time from 26 to 28 April 2019.

“We are constantly looking for ways to make this event even more exciting and inclusive.

Hermanus is a hotspot for adventure sports and we invite all sport lovers, no matter what their ability, to study the events line-up and choose two or even three events to challenge themselves,” says Gerhardi Odendaal, CEO of Old School Group (OSG).

OSG co-owns and runs the WBX in close association and partnership with Hermanus and its people. The event is also backed by title sponsor Hi-Tec, the Hermanus Business Chamber and Hermanus Tourism.

The three new items offer participants an even greater selection.

“Stage races as well as night runs are becoming increasingly popular and we wanted to incorporate them into our event because we know there is a market for them. Along with the triathlon, the MTB races and trail runs are key events for us and we want to offer our athletes who thrive in these disciplines the opportunity to challenge themselves even further,” adds Odendaal.

The Valley Xtreme MTB (MTB stage race) takes place on 26 and 27 April and participants will ride approximately 60 km per day over the two days. The routes will take them to the beautiful Hemel-en-Aarde Valley where participants in the ABSA Cape Epic competed only a few weeks ago. The Blue Mountain Xtreme (trail run) will also be held on 26 and 27 April, and includes stages of 19,1 km and 21 km. Both items offer scenic routes and amazing mountain and sea views.

Sport lovers who do not want to take part in a

stage race, can choose between three distances (20 km, 35 km and 60 km) in the MTB race or two distances (21 km and 9 km) in the trail run on the Saturday, 27 April.

The third new item on the menu is the Twilight Xtreme (night race) – a 7,1 km run on Hermanus’s famous Cliff Path on 27 April. The first 50 entrants will receive LED Lenser head torches with their entry.

With 14 events to choose from, the Hi-Tec WBX offers something for everyone – from adventure seekers, professional athletes and fitness fanatics to recreational outdoor enthusiasts looking for a new challenge and a fun-filled sporting holiday in one of SA’s favourite adventure sport hotspots.

All the old favourites are back, too – the Big 6 Xtreme, sprint triathlon, MTB criterium, open water swim, cliff path runs and the street mile – as well as the exciting swim-run-jump challenge, guaranteed to get the adrenalin pumping.

The 2019 Hi-Tec WBX offers prize money in excess of R100 000, split across a number of events. The Big 6 Xtreme will be held over the course of three days and participants will share a R30 000 prize purse.

“The Hi-Tec Walkerbay Xtreme is multi-faceted, bringing in elements of family bonding, friendly competition, outdoor activity, and a sense of unity, all in what I consider to be one of the most beautiful towns in South Africa,” says Dan Gluckman, sports coordinator at Old School Group.

The big question is: Which event(s) will you take part in to #findyourxtreme? Enter online at www.walkerbayxtreme.com For more information, follow Hi-Tec Walkerbay Xtreme on Facebook (www.facebook.com/walkerbayxtreme), Twitter (@walkerbayxtreme) or Instagram (@walkerbayxtreme).

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Fighting for positive change Writer & Photographer Sarah Taylor

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oach and founder of the Overstrand Whale Boxing Club (OWBC) Mzi Damesi has big dreams of taking boxing to local communities with a ‘pop-up’ boxing ring. “Boxing is a great sport: it teaches youngsters discipline, courage, self-defence skills and the resilience to handle life’s challenges,” he says.

Mzi, who hails from Ilinge near Queenstown in the Eastern Cape and has been boxing since 1990, is also the chairperson of the Overberg Open Boxing Organisation. He started the Zwelihle-based club in 2007 and offers classes for free to the 40 members, all boys aged between 8 and 25. He not only has five children of his own who depend on him, but is also a father figure to many of the OWBC members who hail from single-mother households.

The boxing gym at the Zwelihle Sports Grounds in Lusiba Street comprises three repurposed shipping containers set around a central concrete square. One of them contains weight-lifting equipment, another houses punch bags and is used for sparring, while the third serves as a kitchen/office. Classes are held every weekday between 17:00 and 19:00.

“Most people in Zwelihle don’t have money or jobs and they can’t afford to pay for boxing lessons, so the club runs as a charity,” says the coach.

“We are appealing for funding to enable us to promote boxing all over the region. We would love to do boxing clinics in Stanford, Gansbaai, Hawston, Sandbaai and Mount Pleasant, and many other places in the Overberg.”

On 9 March, Mzi took 10 boys to Dunoon, Cape Town for the regional boxing tournament, returning with

five gold and two silver medals. The Junior gold winners (age 15-16) were Akhule Mgoqi and Siyakholwa Nxanti. Gold medallists in the Youth category (17-18) were Atang Sikiti and Siphamandla Damesi (Mzi’s nephew), while Thando Zongezile (11 years) brought home gold, and Mabini Kase and Lutho Likho (both 14) each brought home silver in the Junior category.

“We’ve been competing as a team since 2008, including the national championships in Johannesburg and we have achieved a lot,” says Mzi. “That year, Phumlani Damesi, who is also my nephew, won bronze as a junior at the nationals. Many of our members have won gold in national and provincial competitions. Others competitors are scared to fight my boxers because they know they will lose!”

Recently, at the Dunoon regionals, Akhule beat South African Junior champ, Sixolise Lupindo. Akhule, now 15, has built up a stellar boxing CV in recent years: in 2015, aged 12, he was elected captain of the SA Cadet (12-14) boxing team. A former OWBC member, Tanner Metodes from Onrus, was national champion three times (in 2015, 2016 and 2017) between the ages of 15 and 17, and was selected to Team South Africa for international fights.

“If we put up a ring, an open boxing club, people will show up… and in this way the sport of boxing can grow. It’s such a great way to keep fit and stay away from the negative influences of drinking, drugs and crime,” says Mzi. The main stumbling block for the club, however, is funding for new equipment (gloves, punch bags, boots and weights), transport, tours and a ‘pop-up’ boxing ring (the latter costs R54 000 new, without the cost

OWBC medal winners: (from left) Siphamandla Damesi, Siyakholwa Nxanti, Mabini Kase, Thando Zongezile, Akhule Mgoqi, coach Mzi Damesi, Atang Sikiti and Lutho Likho. of transporting it from Johannesburg to Hermanus). To date, the club has been surviving on haphazard financial and material donations, mostly sourced in the last two years

by Hermanus businesswoman Carole Dods, who volunteers as the club’s spokesperson and fundraiser. She also allows Mzi to use the telephone and e-mail at her shop, the Jol Emporium.

“If 30 people or local businesses – preferably more – gave the club R100 a month, like NSRI donations, the club would be just about viable. It costs us R2 500 a month just for the taxi fares to enable our top 15 boxers to attend tournaments in the Western Cape, and that doesn’t include the nationals twice a year,” says Carole.

She says Mike and Elaine Bayer, owners of The Beanery coffee shop and roastery, have been particularly supportive of the club in recent years.

Last year Elaine donated R20 000 to the club that was raised during the

No Frills Walk, while Mike donated R2 000 from a service award he won from the hospitality sector. The OWBC also received R20 000 from last December’s charity artwalk, ‘Night of a Thousand Drawings’ which it used to buy new and second-hand equipment. “Mathew Browne from ProActive Fitness helped to source the equipment for us at cost and when the kids went to the nationals, he let them train at his gym,” says Carole.

David Bellairs, director of the Cape Town Cycle Tour, donated seven of the Pedals for Peace bikes, an AfrikaBurn initiative, to the club’s top seven gold-medal boxers last year.

“The kids were overwhelmed. Most of them don’t even have running shoes, and when they go to competitions they often have to borrow shorts and T-shirts from friends,” says Carole.

The club has five second-hand punching bags, but they are quite worn now and need to be replaced.

“The main thing we really need, though,” says Mzi, “is transport in the form of our own vehicle as we travel a lot as a team and hiring a taxi for a long day in Cape Town, for example, is very expensive. Sometimes we get last-minute invitations to attend a practice, sparring or mini tournament. It would be great to be able to go if we wanted to.”

The club has had many SA champs in the past five years. Akhule, Siphamandla, Atang and Siyakholwa all qualified for the inter-provincial tournament in Queenstown from 26 – 27 April, but again, finding the funds to attend is a challenge. “I’d love to take our boxers there, to give them more experience,” says Mzi.

If you would like to donate money or equipment to the OWBC, contact Carole Dods on 082 890 5749 or 028 313 2769. See also the club’s Facebook page (Overstrand Whale Boxing Club).

27 March 2019

Putting Pirate

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Scores at a glance

JUST CARE… cares!

By Julian Shaw

G

reetings to you all once more, and welcome to another edition from the Hermanus Golf Club. Last week we hosted another charity event, the Just Care Golf Day. Just Care Aftercare in Mount Pleasant is one of the most under-recognised charities in Hermanus and caters for some of the most vulnerable people in our community. Founded in 2015

by Jacquie Rathfelder and her mom, Claudine, it provides a safe haven for the many children whose parents work full time and who were previously left to their own devices after school hours, without proper care, structured activities, guidance or supervision. The charity was founded in memory of Jacquie’s father, John, who had been a school teacher for 25 years.

The Just Care facility in Malva Street looks after 130 children from the surrounding areas of Mount Pleasant and Zwelihle, aged between 5 and 15 years. Sadly, there is a long waiting list of children that cannot be accommodated as the premises, constructed in 2017 with funds donated by the Lighthouse 2 Lighthouse Ladies Charity Walk, are already stretched

SUNDOWNER 15 MARCH 1st: Stephen van der Merwe 21 points 2nd Cora Clark 20 points 3rd Kevin Middleton 19 points

to capacity.

The children all come from underprivileged and previously disadvantaged families. Jacquie and fellow trustee, Kathleen Sanders, together with eight permanent staff members and several volunteers, feed the children twice a day, help them with their homework and teach them important life skills. Structured activities include reading and writing, maths, art, knitting, karate, chess and sports, all run by volunteers.

This all comes at a cost of approximately R40 000 a month, which is funded by various streams such as the EPWP, donations, and private sponsorships. The food is kindly donated by Checkers.

Running the charity is a full-time job for the ladies and financing it a permanent headache and challenge, as any shortfall comes out of their own pockets. Days such as the golf day really help them to continue providing this essential service to the community. When speaking to Jacquie one cannot but be drawn in by her passion for helping these young people and I really take my hat off to her and all involved.

Jacquie went to great pains to make sure that I thank everyone who is assisting Just Care, including Build It, Fin Global, Abagold, the Antonie

The winners of the Just Care Golf Day on Friday were Lynne and Tony Behagg, together with Cheryl Richardson and Ray Calitz (not in the photo).

With them is Jacquie Rathfelder of Just Care (second from left).

Roux Stigting, and a woman in Cape Town whom Jacquie has never met but who continues to support Just Care by way of a biannual donation.

She said they don’t just make a difference, they make THE difference.

The Just Care Golf Day on Friday was well supported and extremely well run; overall the golfers had a super day. The competition was an alliance stableford and topping the scores of the day with 84 points were Lynne and Tony Behagg, together with Cheryl Richardson and Ray Calitz.

The runners-up, Wina Loubser, Liz and John Steward and Chris Martin counted in on 78 points.

Anyone who would like to assist Just Care in any way is always welcome to contact Jacquie or Kathleen at justcare@whalemail.co.za or visit their website at www.justcare.co.za. They do have a wish list which includes starting a holiday project to look after the children during the school holidays, but this would involve additional funding. Then again, there can be no greater investment than in our communities’ children, so let’s support these selfless ladies and the wonderful work they are doing.

As ever, thanks for reading our column and remember to play that little ball as it lies!

SATURDAY ALL TOGETHER 16 MARCH Individual Stableford 134 players South Course: 1st Brian Taylor – 36 C/I 2nd Duncan Fletcher – 36 C/O 3rd Roan Kok – 35 C/I North Course: 1st Cheryl Richardson – 41 2nd Carl Grobler – 38 3rd Loutjie Blom – 37 C/I East Course: 1st Simon O’Sullivan – 40 2nd David Romburgh – 39 3rd Kristian Borglin – 38 TUESDAY LADIES’ 19 MARCH Betterball Medal 34 players South course: Carole Rotherham and Wendy Dunn – nett 66 East course: Cheryl Richardson and Chris Tyley – nett 63 WEDNESDAY MEN’S 20 MARCH Betterball Medal 121 players East course: Deon Joubert and Braam van der Walt – nett 63 South course: Andre du Toit and Johan Krog – nett 65 North course: Gary Combrink and Tony Richards – nett 63 Best gross: Damian Grib – 72 8 two clubs

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27 March 2019

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MY SPORT

ROOFMEN

Absa Cape Epic ends on a high note

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ross-Spur’s Sergio Mantecon Gutierrez and Ondrej Cink sprinted to victory in the 70 km Grand Finale of the Absa Cape Epic at the Val de Vie Estate on Sunday.

Annika Langvad and Anna van der Breggen (team InvestecSongo-Specialized) celebrate after being the winning female team in the 2019 Absa Cape Epic.

PHOTO: Xavier Briel, Cape Epic

Even though Nino Schurter and Lars Forster of the SCOTT-SRAM team ended the day in 14th place, they clinched the Cape Epic overall title.

Gutierrez and Cink edged PYGA Euro Steel’s Matthys Beukes and Philip Buys by a millisecond in the final sprint to win stage seven in 2:53:07.

Schurter and Forster were the overall winners with a final time of 26:09:45, just over seven-and-a-half minutes ahead of Cannondale Factory Racing’s Manuel Fumic and Henrique Avancini. Specialized Foundation NAD’s Alan Hatherly and Matt Beers comfortably clinched the red African jersey after finishing fifth overall.

In the women’s race, Annika Langvad and Anna van der Breggen of Investec-songo-Specialized collected their seventh stage win on Sunday to give Langvad her fifth victory in the gruelling eight-day race.

Five-time World Marathon Champion Langvad, and World Road Race and Olympic Champion Van der Breggen, broke away from Candice Lill and Adelheid Morath of Summit Fin within the last kilometre of the Grand Finale Stage to complete a one-sided victory.

PHOTO: Nick Muzik, Cape Epic ABOVE: Alan Hatherly and Matt Beers (team Specialized Foundation-NAD) during stage 3, which started and ended at Oak Valley Estate.

RIGHT: Lars Forster and Nino Schurter (team SCOTTSRAM), the overall winning men's team of the 2019 Absa Cape Epic, celebrate their regaining of the ‘yellow jersey’ during stage 5.

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PHOTO: Nick Muzik, Cape Epic

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