The Village NEWS 28 Nov-4 Dec 2018 by The Village NEWS

Ward committee summit

28 NOVEMBER 2018

Pop-up lounge at Grotto

Book reviews

#ALLOVEROVERBERG We’ve Got You Covered

Salt pan bird watching

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Even the horses at Stanford Hills could not resist joining in the festivities at the annual Stanford Stumble. See more pictures on Page 10. PHOTO: Taylum Meyer,Titanium Photography

Learn local with Hermanus Varsity Writer Hedda Mittner

t is no longer a question of whether it will happen – it is already happening.” Those were the encouraging words of Prof John de Gruchy, who is spearheading the establishment of Hermanus Varsity, at a meeting held in the Municipal Auditorium on Thursday evening, 22 November. The purpose of the meeting was to give feedback and share information

on the progress that has been made in establishing the Hermanus Varsity Trust (HVT), with the motto ‘Education for Transformation’. Prof de Gruchy emphasised that HVT was initiated by the community for the community and not by outside organisations or the government. Their vision of making quality education available to all applies not only to the youth of Zwelihle but a wide demographic of their diverse target market in the whole of the Over-

strand region, he said. Essentially, Hermanus Varsity (HV) is aimed at those wish to live and learn locally. It will enable people to stay at home in their communities while studying, instead of having the expense of accommodation in other learning centres away from home. It will cater not only for matriculants with exemption who are seeking a university education, but also for municipal oicials, teachers and other professionals who would like to up-

grade their qualiications or embark on post-graduate studies. Education support will also be provided for high school learners. Because of the diversity of educational needs in the region, HVT will bring a diversity of oferings, in collaboration with a diversity of partners, to provide working solutions to beneit all. These will include distance learning, contact learning through tutorship, online learning and evening classes.

The administrative hub of the Hermanus Varsity will be the old Synagogue building and the surrounding area, which includes the municipal precinct and the taxi rank. This area was identiied by the CBD Regeneration Framework report done by GAP Architects in 2016 as a top priority for upgrading and will provide a vibrant public realm with easy access.

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28 November 2018

www.thevillagenews.co.za

‘Education for Transformation’ How did this all come about? In order to answer this question, Prof de Gruchy went back to the beginning. It all started, he said, the way universities the world over usually start: when there is a speciic need for it in a certain location. Here in Hermanus, the need was irst expressed by Theo Krynauw of Sparkle Kids, who visited Prof de Gruchy along with Fikiswa Gxamesi and William Ntebe of the Zwelihle Youth Café. That initial discussion centred on the dilemma of high school learners with potential who have applied themselves to obtain a matric with university exemption, but who did not have the inancial resources to attend a university away from home. By ofering quality tertiary education in Hermanus, not only these youngsters but members of all ages from all sections of the Overstrand would be able to live and learn locally. More importantly, these students would then remain in the region instead of moving away and, once qualiied, they would be employable locally, with a vested interest in the local economy. Once this seed had been planted, Prof de Gruchy discussed it with a small group of people over cofee on 4 August. He added that, interestingly, all members of that initial group are still involved. Each of them subsequently invited 10 people who might want to get involved or provide valuable input to the next meeting, where the level of energy and enthusiasm led to a third and even bigger meeting. “We drank a lot of cofee during this time,” Prof de Gruchy quipped. The third meeting, held on 31 August, brought an even bigger group of people with academic experience together and the decision was taken to proceed with the drafting of a proposal. This marked the oicial start of Phase 1, while the meeting last Thursday, 16 weeks later, marked the beginning of Phase 2. What is the Hermanus Varsity Trust and who is involved? Prof de Gruchy emphasised that it is a work in progress – and will continue to be in the future. Reporting back on

Phase 1, he said the existing planning committee (steering committee) continues to act on behalf of HVT, supplemented by co-opted members that constitute ive functioning working groups. The trust has been registered and the irst draft HVT Council Constitution approved, and negotiations with stakeholders are in process. HVT comprises a board of trustees, a council (still to be appointed) and a steering committee. The ive working groups are made up of the education working committee, academic working committee, infrastructure working committee, inance working committee and stakeholder working committee. The board of trustees is made up of Prof John de Gruchy, Belinda May, Lou-Anne Lubbe, John Morris and Amanda Mahlanyana, while the steering committee comprises Fr Edwin Arrison (chair), Zanele Booysen, John de Gruchy, Delana Finlayson (also chair of the infrastructure working committee), Salome Geldenhuys, Theo Krynauw, Lou-Anne Lubbe (also chair of the stakeholder working committee), Amanda Mahlanyana, Carolyn Martin, Beverly Moller, William Ntebe, Allan Powell (also chair of the education working committee), Gideon Serfontein (also chair of the inance working committee) and Michele Serfontein (also chair of the academic working committee). How will it be done? At the meeting, the chair of the Stakeholder Working Committee, Lou-Anne Lubbe, emphasised that the Hermanus Varsity is a community-based initiative in collaboration with academic partners, a principals’ forum, Overstrand Municipality, tourism and community representatives. “We believe in access to quality education for all our children and for adult residents who want to better their lives. By making that available we are creating hope,” she said. “That is what we are doing here tonight, but we can only reach our goal through engagement and we need the community’s buy-in and support.”

HVT tutors. These volunteers will be sourced from the wealth of academic excellence in our region.

Michele Serfontein, chair of the Academic Working Committee, explained that HVT will continue to identify speciic needs in our communities, schools and local businesses and then identify suitable oferings by training providers. HVT is already in the process of inalising agreements with several academic partners, including Stellenbosch University, Stadio Multiversity (Southern Business School), CPTUT and the University of Johannesburg (CENLED). The courses that will be made available to local students from 2020 include a wide range, from Telematics for Grade 10 – 12 learners and diplomas in Management or Gr R Teaching, to Higher Certiicates in Local Economic Development or Paralegal Studies, and Bachelor of Business Administration and B Ed Honours degrees. Through Hermanus Varsity’s collaboration with CPTUT and CapeNature, various courses and post-graduate internships will also be ofered in the ields of marine science, aquaculture, viticulture, botany and nature conservation. The secret ingredient of Hermanus Varsity will be distance learning combined with direct contact with

Where will it happen? Delana Finlayson, chair of the Infrastructure Working Committee, explained the HVT’s vision for an integrative community characterised by positive inter-personal relationships. It was therefore important, she said, for the physical infrastructure to provide a context for learning and social interaction that is in alignment with the institution’s goals. “As the administration building, the stately old Synagogue will form the heart of HV,” said Delana. “Its central location will ensure easy access for students in terms of transport and parking.” She went on to say that, as the HV will not be a full-contact institution, it is envisaged that it will expand organically. Facilities will not all be in one location and HV will also be making use of existing infrastructure such as the Grobbelaar Hall and the municipal auditorium. What is needed to make this happen? The chair of the Finance Working Committee, Gideon Serfontein, said the high unemployment rate in the Overstrand can be attributed to low economic growth and a lack of skills, knowledge and experience for available job opportunities. The HVT aims to assist a number of students to overcome these barriers so that they have a vested interest in growing the local economy. The various mechanisms that will be utilised in order to provide inancial

assistance to students include service providers ofering courses at discounted rates, and enabling students to gain access to the National Students Financial Assistance Scheme (NSFAS) through public partners such as Stellenbosch University and the University of Johannesburg. The possibility of bursary and loan schemes will also be investigated. HVT’s operating budget for January – June 2019 is R100 000 – R150 000 for monthly costs that include the lease and utilities for oices, the core administrative team, professional fees, student support in the access and application process, marketing and advertising. These obligations will be met through fundraising that will include both individual donors and institutional investors. During Phase 2, which commenced on 22 November and will run until June 2019, HVT will focus on completing a comprehensive needs analysis in dialogue with communities, business and industries, formalising agreements with service providers for the pilot phase, fundraising, roadshows to potential students and the registration process. Overstrand residents are invited to become a Friend of Hermanus Varsity and assist this initiative in any way they can, whether by volunteering as a tutor, funding a student, providing infrastructure or making a inancial contribution.

For more information contact Beverly Moller at hermanusuniversitycollege@gmail.com

A good day to thank and give back … Between 8 and 9am Park Runners and Early Birders pay only R10 for a cup of artisanal coffee of their choice. Mmm … Young Charel reckons he still beats Wihan at his game because his live music is for free! Yummy, yummy, yummy I’ve got lôôôve in my tummy …

Monday to Friday 09:00 – 17:00 | Die Markie (Saturdays) 09:00 – 13:00

17 Village Lane Hemel en Aarde Village Hermanus 028 316 1875

28 November 2018

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Municipality hosts Ward Committee Summit

ublic participation in afairs of local government is the bedrock of participatory democracy in South Africa.” This was the opening message by Buyiswa Jack, Deputy Director of Public Participation for the Provincial Department of Local Government, at the Overstrand Ward Committee Summit that was held on Monday in Hermanus and attended by 76% of ward committee members. According to Roderick Williams, Director, Community Services, the vision behind the summit was to strengthen relationships and resolve critical challenges in collaboration with the broader community. Members of all 13 ward committees, councillors, members of the admin-

istration and other stakeholders were invited to attend the summit to work together on proposing possible changes to the legislative framework for ward committees and public participation. On the review process, Jack said almost every piece of legislation pertaining to local government contains provisions relating to public participation, and it is against this backdrop that reviews are being done on the current processes in order to make them more efective. “Since the inception of the ward participatory system in 2001 no review or assessment has been conducted on the challenges and gaps in the system, thus the current need for the review,” she said. According to her, the Overstrand

Municipality serves in many instances as an example to other local governments. Just two weeks after the previous local elections, the ward committees for the region were inalised, compared to other municipalities that have not yet been able to elect committees. She said that research has shown that all municipalities face the same challenges. These include the establishment of processes, the deinition of the roles and responsibilities of all involved, tensions between ward councillors, community development workers, municipal oicials and communities, lack of accountability and poor communication, and a lack of trust between communities and the municipality. “In some cases, ward committee

members are used as either rubber stamps or are not recognised by some municipal oicials,” she said. With the annual review process of the Integrated Development Plan (IDP) underway, Mayor Dudley Coetzee said at a recent council meeting that the municipality is facing tough trade-ofs for the next budgeting cycle. He said the civil unrest of the past few months impacted on all communities and that the municipality will approve and implement a strategy to deal with it. “We will also launch a diversity management initiative to promote anti-racism in the Overstrand and, through our communication eforts, proactively work to restore the relationship between the municipality

and the community.” Coetzee said the municipality acknowledges the increasing housing need. Some of the actions they are undertaking include rethinking the housing strategy by delivering more serviced sites, investigating the creation of a new town as an extension of the Greater Hermanus, and evaluating proposals for the management of backyard dwellings. He added that the municipality will inalise the informal trading by-law to stimulate the informal economy in disadvantaged areas and review the Spatial Development Framework to allow for growth and development in the Overstrand.

– De Waal Steyn

Only SAPS has mandate to protect property owners

Housing supply can’t meet demand

The South African Police Service (SAPS) – and not the municipality – are obliged and empowered to protect private property rights, maintain law and order during protests or land invasions, and enforce and assist with court orders that the courts have mandated the Sherrif to carry out, said Deirdre Olivier of Fairbridges Wertheim Becker Attorneys.

A moving target of 10 200 housing needs in the Overstrand, dominated by indigent housing demand, and a population that is growing rapidly while housing allocation remains static, have created a disparity between demand and supply in the municipality conirmed Mbongi Gubuza, responsible for Stakeholder Relations at the Department of Human Settlements, Western Cape.

This distinction was important, said Olivier, against the backdrop of the recent land invasions in Hermanus and the subsequent court action that tried to force the municipality to intervene in removing or preventing people from invading private land. According to Olivier there has been much debate recently as to what constitutes the mandates of the SAPS and municipal law enforcement. “Residents need to be aware of the diferent roles as it dictates what can and cannot be done. In short, the SAPS must act as the police. The Constitution states that SAPS must be structured to function in the national, provincial and, where appropriate, local spheres of government. The objective of the police service is to

prevent, combat and investigate crime, to maintain public order, protect and secure the inhabitants of the Republic and their property, and to uphold and enforce the law,” said Olivier. “It is fundamental to the Constitutional order that the spheres of government may exercise no power or perform any function beyond that which is conferred upon them by law. Thus, local law enforcement cannot get involved in land invasion issues. The control of private land or managing unlawful occupation of such land, protection of citizens, prevention of criminal activity and maintaining law and order, for example during riots, are not functions that fall within the ambit of any of the local government matters,” she said. Where the Constitution assigns speciic functions to a particular entity, as in this case, SAPS, the powers and duties of other organs of state must be interpreted in such a manner as to respect the exclusivity of that assignment of functions. The Constitution states that the security services of South Africa consist of a single defence force, a single police service

and any intelligence services established in terms of the constitution. “No provision is made for a separate security force. Although there are Metro Police Services, they are limited in their mandate and powers and can only act in policing situations under the direction of SAPS. The municipality’s law enforcement personnel’s primary function is to uphold municipal by-laws. The municipality does not have a law enforcement unit consisting of specially trained oicers mandated to prevent the illegal occupation of privately-owned land or with policing functions,” said Olivier. According to her, property owners and the community should seek the assistance of the local SAPS to maintain law and order and should the SAPS deem it necessary, the Station Commander would call in the Public Order Police. “The only lawful and efective relief that private property owners could seek via the courts would be an order directing the SAPS to take efective steps to protect citizens and private property.” - De Waal Steyn

The implications of this, he explained, will be the “mushrooming of informal settlements”, “ongoing violent service delivery protests”, “invasion of land and damages to properties” and a “lack of public trust in the municipality”. Gubuza also said that the municipality only has the budget to deliver 5 728 housing opportunities between 2018 and 2023. Their task is further hampered by the unavailability of well-located public land and lack of resources, both inancial and technical, to develop the land. Each year, Western Cape Human Settlements receives approximately R2 billion from the national government to annually deliver 16 000

houses and 18 000 serviced sites. This amount needs to split between the 24 districts and the Cape Town metro. There is a current backlog of about 550 000 housing needs in the province. Human Settlements has 8 diferent programmes which require the municipalities to act as the developers. These programmes are the Integrated Residential Development Programme for indigents who earn up to R3 500 a month, the Upgrading of Informal Settlement Programme where grantees receive a serviced site, the Enhanced People’s Housing Programme for those who already own a stand, the Finance Linked Institutional Subsidy Programme to assist those who earn between R3 500 and R22 000, and Community Residential Units which upgrades hostels to housing units. The Emergency Housing Programme also assists in disasteres, such as ires, the Farm Residents Programme works with farmers to settle workers and the Social Housing Programme maintaints units for rent. – Raphael da Silva

28 November 2018

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PHOTO: Hedda Mittner

New operator for Grotto pop-up lounge Writer De Waal Steyn

fter nearly a month of uncertainty, the municipality last week awarded the right to host a pop-up lounge on Grotto beach to local businessman and entrepreneur Alan de Kock. De Kock has organised the popular Hermanus VAC for matrics over the past few years and last December operated the Kammabaai pop-up lounge. In previous years he also operated a pop-up lounge on the roof of the lifeguard building on Grotto beach. The Kammabaai pop-up lounge elicited much public comment last year, especially from residents in the area who were opposed to a venue serving alcohol so close to a public beach and the Clif Path. This municipality’s decision to award the rights to De Kock follows after the initial proposal last month was won by De Vette Mossel restaurant, who subsequently withdrew from operating the pop-up lounge on Grotto to rather focus their eforts on setting up their restaurant at Prawn Flats. Dutchies restaurant, whose owners pioneered the concept of a pop-up lounge under the milkwood trees, was disqualiied during the irst round after the proposal was not submitted on the oicial municipal form. Dutchies owner, Joke Gonggrijp, launched two appeals against her disqualiication and also submitted a second proposal.

De Kock was the only other person who submitted a proposal for the second round and it is understood that he tendered a substantially higher amount than Gonggrijp. “I was informed on Thursday that my second proposal was not successful and shortly thereafter that both my appeals had failed,” said a visibly upset Gonggrijp. “I feel very disappointed and let down after our many years of hard work and the positive feedback we received from the thousands of locals and tourists who have enjoyed our Summer Lounge.” De Kock, who will also be hosting the sixth Hermanus Vac this December, said the opening date of his new Sundown Beach Lounge still has to be conirmed. “As a born and bred local I am proud to have been awarded the tender, and I’m looking forward to the challenge,” he said. According to De Kock, he will be ofering “a summer lounge experience” along with exotic cocktails and a sushi and poke bowl bar. In the meantime, the developers Voëlklip Camping at the De Mond site last week announced that they will not be opening the camping site this year as initially planned. However, according to Niel du Bois, founder of De Vette Mossel, they are very much on track to open this December. “Voëlklip Camping is not connected to us and it has no inluence on us whether they are open or not. We are slightly ahead of schedule to open after the irst week in December,” said Du Bois. According to the De Mond developers, Pohl

and Maritz (Pty) Ltd in association with Crown Grant, they have made the collective decision to oicially open the camping venue in early 2019. In a statement, the developers said: “[We] have had overwhelming support and interest shown in this development and we would like to assure all future visitors to Voëlklip Camping that every care is taken in creating a one-of-akind, exclusive holiday destination in the Overberg district for everyone to enjoy. A memo was sent to the developers on 15 October requesting that a number of documents and plans be submitted. “The municipality consists of various departments and sub-departments that need to comment on the applications and this process has afected the pace at which construction on Voëlklip Camping is concluded. Permission has been granted to refurbish the ablution blocks which were left derelict until recently, but permission has not yet been granted to provide services such as electricity and running water to these buildings. It is a slow but thorough process and the developers are at all times mindful of the procedures to be followed. A collective decision was made not to rush the process. “Pohl and Maritz (Pty) Ltd expect to have all ﬁnal approvals within the next fortnight, but after careful calculation and projections, the timeline will not allow for all structures and services at Voëlklip Camping to be ready for public use by the original set date of 1 December 2018. Therefore, a decision was made to postpone the ofﬁcial launch of Voëlklip Camping until early 2019. As soon as the municipality approves all plans, work will commence on building and developing the caravan camping site to the standards expected from a luxury camping site. All prospective clients that have secured spaces for the upcoming December holiday will be fully reimbursed and have also been ofered a free stay in 2019,” they said in a statement.

A good day to thank and give back … Buy two Jaffels from Jan and Marie and walk away with three because they believe charity begins at Die Markie. Mmm … Young Charel confirms sharing is caring and that’s why his live music is for free! Yummy, yummy, yummy I’ve got lôôôve in my tummy …

Monday to Friday 09:00 – 17:00 | Die Markie (Saturdays) 09:00 – 13:00

17 Village Lane Hemel en Aarde Village Hermanus 028 316 1875

28 November 2018

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Healthy and robust debate are crucial for democracy. The Village NEWS irmly 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 relect the opinions, beliefs and viewpoints of The Village NEWS. Enjoy our paper. The Editorial Team.

LET’S TALK T: 028 312 2020 A: 8 Arum St, Hermanus Industrial

GAS DELIVERIES

What genetic screening is and what it is not A recent column in The Village NEWS by Dr Arien van der Merwe informed readers about genetic screening as a draw card for a weight control clinic. It gave information and misinformation about the usefulness of genetic screening, while omitting certain ethical issues concerning the privacy of the individual’s genetic information. We were told that a simple cheek swab for DNA would be analysed and a report generated giving a “comprehensive health and wellness report with a precision nutrition, exercise and stress management plan, tailored to your genetic needs”. We were also told: “The following genetic screening tests are available: wellness, diet, itness and longevity, with each test measuring a speciic array of genes.” I have done thirteen courses on various aspects of genetics from several English Universities and nowhere have I seen mention of genes for wellness, diet, itness or longevity. They do not exist. Nor would any reputable genetics lab issue a report detailing your stress, diet and exercise management requirements. The speciic genetics lab used by the weight control clinic was not mentioned but before I sent my DNA to them I would want to be assured in writing that my genetic information would remain private and that there would be no chance of my, and by deduction my children’s, information getting into the hands of insurance companies or the work place or indeed, anywhere I did not wish it to go. While I agree that diet has a role to play in most cases of essential hypertension and type 2 diabetes, I do not believe that genetic screening has signiicant relevance to a weight control clinic. Dr Phil Harries-Jones

Dr Arien van der Merwe responds: The letter draws uninformed conclusions without any basis in facts and the latest research in genetics. There are no facts or premises in my article that could lead to the deduction that it was to promote the Weight Control Clinic per se – where did the correspondent get that idea? There were two advertisements on the same page and nothing in the article to promote the WCC as such. The geneticists at Geneway Laboratory, based on solid science, divide the 120 genes tested, into the diferent categories, to support the understanding of the identiied potential risks, as well as to interpret and manage same. When we as health practitioners receive any request for more information, there is of course full disclosure of Geneway Laboratories, with further information available on their website (www.geneway.co.za) as to the extensive research that went into this process. We do not mention any labs as such in our information pieces and articles, whether genetic screening or the usual blood test screening. Whenever people consult with us, or call for more info, there is full disclosure as to the laboratories we use, and of course, it would be on all the referral forms our patients complete. As with all screening, general and genetic, all information is kept conidential. As always, the referring health practitioner receives all reports, shares and discusses it during consultation with every patient, in complete conidentiality. This is standard practise for all health care practitioners. Their nursing and administrative staf would, of course, also be included in the conidentiality agreement. Ariani Health Solutions (Dr Arien van der Merwe and Anri van Rooyen) are eminently suited to utilise and advise on this process. I studied medicine, then natural integrative functional medicine

and stress management, wrote numerous books, with the essential research that goes into a factual book on health and wellness topics, then moved on to intense study of epigenetics and neuroplasticity. The articles I wrote on these topics are available on our website (www.DrArien.co.za). I am also a registered Specialist Holistic Health Counsellor. Epigenetics is exactly the basis for addressing the genetic screening risks for potential disease, by providing many tools and techniques to manage said risks. Anri van Rooyen studied genetics as part of a BSc degree, combining that with psychology and physiology. She then went on to study for an honours and masters in related ields, including exercise science and physiology. She is also a registered Holistic Health Counsellor. We are therefore well qualiied and experienced through our studies, obtaining various degrees and relevant professional memberships, ongoing research and regular updates through a multitude of CPD courses, to ofer the screening and most importantly, guide and support patients through the essential lifestyle behaviour modiications once genetic potential risks have been identiied. This experience, extensive knowledge base and practical application is invaluable for us to really support our patients. Genetic screening is one of the best ways to practice preventative medicine, before disease manifests. Even blood screening tests, which are very helpful to manage health risks, only become so after the fact, once physical symptoms have mostly already manifested. Even there, we work with the low and high end of normal ranges, to identify potential future risks, and then prevent these from manifesting, also through various lifestyle modiications, including once again, ongoing support and guidance and regular follow-ups to assess progress.

R43Help initiative needs assistance For some time now, and certainly in the last year, Hermanus has experienced unrest, instability, and their consequent impact on the people and economy of Hermanus. This has been driven by an assortment of factors but mostly by land and housing issues associated with disafected communities. These issues need to be resolved.

This intervention would be to complement and support the work of the SAPS and the Traic and Protection Services of our municipality by deploying additional security services to patrol our main arterial roads, particularly the R43, in order to ensure freedom of access to and from Hermanus, and a de-escalation of public unrest.

It is pleasing to note that the overwhelming majority of residents and businesses in the greater Hermanus area are in favour of peaceful resolution. The interventions that are urgent and necessary sit irmly with the authorities, and we have called on these authorities to assist.

We would like to invite all residents of the greater Hermanus area to make a monthly contribution of R150 (more or less is optional) over the next three to four months so that we can provide additional security to support our law enforcement agencies in keeping Hermanus safe and accessible for all.

Progress, however, has been slow and in order to best protect our town, its communities and its economy, the R43Help task team appointed at a public meeting on Monday 12 November is recommending a security intervention for immediate implementation.

Contributions can be sent to: R43Help, Nedbank Hermanus, Acc: 134 500 2408, Ref: AO4490/Name and cell number. Send SMS conirmation to 076 759 8664. R43Help Task Team

Has Hermanus inally lost the plot? As a non-resident, I was appalled to arrive at my house in Marine Drive, Sandbaai last week, to ind that a complete state of lawlessness has now arrived in Hermanus! The Schulphoek land has been invaded, precious milkwoods destroyed, ires burning the entire weekend, and no law enforcement present to stop what amounts to a blatant destruction of the environment. I read about the 22 demands made to the Municipality, threats to close the R43, etc. etc. Has Hermanus inally imploded? Is there no law enforcement at all anymore? Can anyone now cut and burn whatever they feel like without sanction and

get away with it? Of course, we as ratepayers will have to fork out for the services and to subsidise more land invasions, bringing more unemployment and ultimately crime. In fact, we are in efect subsidising crime. Wow! Our properties have devalued overnight, yet the Municipality increases rates but cannot ensure that a state of law and order prevails – surely heads must roll and it starts at the top! We have owned a house in Sandbaai since 1976 and never have we experienced such a lack of leadership from the Mayor.

Bruce Burmeister

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28 November 2018 Send your letters to letters@thevillagenews.co.za

Overstrand Hospice 600 Club Draw

Hermanus Heights residents say thank you Throughout the year we in Hermanus Heights have enjoyed a privileged sense of wellbeing due to the diligence of the security services that look after us. To show our appreciation we have invited guests from the security services providers, including SAPS to enjoy a boerie roll and a coke, at this time of good cheer. We invite residents in the area to join us for this unique event on the open piece of land between Fernkloof Drive and Waboom Street, Hermanus Heights on 1

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December from 16:00 to 18:00. Please make time to meet the security team that protects us week in and week out, come wind, rain or shine and say a big thank you to them. To conirm your attendance, send an email to alan. davidson010@gmail.com We also take this opportunity to wish everyone and their families a Merry, Happy and Safe Christmas this year. On behalf of Hermanus Heights Secure

The monthly club draw was done on Friday 16 November by Cape Whale Coast Tourism Manager, Frieda Lloyd (seated front left) and Thembinkosi Sobazke (Bravo the Whale Crier).

De Waal Steyn Publishing Editor dewaal@thevillagenews.co.za Raphael da Silva Online Editor raphael@thevillagenews.co.za Hedda Mittner Content Editor hedda@thevillagenews.co.za

Don Adams monitored the draw and Overstrand Hospice Manager, Fran Tong was present. Winners: 1st Mrs Woodward; 2nd The Dogs; 3rd Dr Willem van Schoor. Bravo provided a fanfare by blowing the Whale Horn, much to the alarm of some of the neighbours!

Facebook : @OverstrandHospice

THE VILLAGE NEWS TEAM

Elaine Davie Journalist elaine@thevillagenews.co.za Nickey Jackson Graphic Designer nickey@thevillagenews.co.za

Should you wish to support the Overstrand Hospice through the 600 Club, please contact Norma Scott-Tomlin on 028 312 4679 or 600admin@overstrandhospice.com

Jessica Pote Graphic Designer jessica@thevillagenews.co.za Tania Hamman Oice Admin admin@thevillagenews.co.za Kathy Bentley Marketing Manager kathy@thevillagenews.co.za

On My Mind

Trust me, I’m a doctor. Groin and bare it.

By Murray Stewart (old photo)

Occasionally we read about people’s experiences in their local hospitals, and this email from Bevis Crumb in Durban cries out to be shared. “As a keen sportsman, I’d been experiencing leg pains,” he wrote, “and went to the clinic for advice. The Doc told me ‘poor circulation, not enough oxygen getting through the arteries’, and assured me that a simple procedure – angioplasty – would do the trick. Sounded ine till I found out what an angioplasty is.” According to Bevis, the procedure entails ‘going in’ through your groin, and down an artery with these long rod-like thingies. On encountering a narrowing, they inlate a balloon to widen it, and insert a metal tube (stent) to prevent it closing again. “The rod in the artery somehow still felt palatable,” he continued, “but I couldn’t quite swallow the ‘going in’ through the groin bit. I may be diferent, but my groin seems to be oversupplied with nerve-endings, and is a very sensitive, never mind private area of my body.”

Leijla Steyn Social Media & Sales ads@thevillagenews.co.za Taylum Meyer Photography & Social Media taylum@thevillagenews.co.za

Having been assured it was a doddle though, Bevis duly checked into the clinic a few days later. “I was given one of those backless gowns which exposes one’s buns to everyone, but this was just the beginning of the end of my dignity. After being brutally shaved, every passing nurse for the next hour had an intravenous drip they wanted to stick into me somewhere, and soon I was entangled in a jungle gym of rubber spaghetti. “They also attached electrodes to my chest, perhaps to assure the Doc that I was still alive while he was operating. The only remaining item was a long loppy wire thermometer with a sensor at the end. Apparently this had to be precisely positioned in that gloomy groin area referred to by the Doc as ‘twixt wind and water’, but because it wasn’t ixed, it kept displacing itself. “Apparently almost everyone in the hospital felt responsible for this wire to be in place, because I constantly had people I’d never seen before lifting my blankets and rummaging around my wedding vegetables without even smiling. “Eventually I was wheeled down to

the theatre where I met an entirely diferent gang of people wearing masks who also took a keen interest in my temperature.” Oddly enough, the one thing Bevis truly dreaded, the operation, was totally missed because he was unconscious throughout. The nightmare started when he woke up. “I surfaced to discover dozens of tubes emerging from every oriice, and I couldn’t move. I was dying to go for a pee, but the nurse – proudly holding up a plastic bag of orange liquid - assured me that ‘because you’ve got a catheter inserted well up into your bladder, you can sommer pee whenever you like’. The fact that a penis wasn’t designed to have things inserted into it seemed irrelevant to them. “Fortunately, when the drugs kicked in I wasn’t hassled by the amount of passers-by who came to inspect my clean-shaven groin, or the groups of nurses and med students discussing who should reposition the thermometer.” Anyway, after a night of drug-induced sleep he awoke to a matron with a moustache and some cheerful words.

“Good news,” she beamed, “Doc says the blood has clotted enough to pull the tubes out the arteries,” and she started yanking away at the pipes while Bevis held his breath hoping to die of asphyxiation. After his spell of fainting and resurfacing, she triumphantly held up a tangled mass of bloody tubes. “Bliksem!” she said in amazement, “they cram all this into one artery,” as he passed out for the umteenth time. “It’s diicult to understand how I survived to relive every excruciating detail,” he continued. “Never again, I promised, thankful the horror was over. “Unfortunately Doc arrived that afternoon with the news that because they’d only managed to do the right leg, they’d be doing the left tomorrow.

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“But relax,” he crooned, “now you know what to expect, it’s always easier the second time around.” “In a panic I tried to strangle myself with the thermometer wire but the nurse took it away.” Well readers, since then I’m pleased to say his sporting days have returned and he’s back playing chess again.

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28 November 2018

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OPINION MATTERS Our responsibilities this season Let’s all take a deep breath, pause and put our best foot forward. Thousands of visitors are soon going to be descending upon our fair towns for the holiday season. We need to be ready to welcome them. The irst 11 months of this year have not been easy, and we, as a community, are faced with a multitude of challenges that will not magically disappear once the busy season has come and gone. As one of the premier national and international destinations in the country there is a lot at stake for us this season. Most local businesses have sufered huge inancial losses with very little chance of recuperating. Over recent months several iconic businesses have closed their doors while the success of

this season will be make or break for many others. All of us have a responsibility to ensure that this season is a success. Our economy needs to recover. Our key priorities should be to ensure that all businesses can operate at full capacity during the season. We can’t aford for doors to close or businesses to be left without staf. You ask how you can contribute to making this season a success? Simply by being friendly, welcoming and positive, we can re-establish our region as the holiday destination of choice. But please remember that we also need to be careful about what we say on public forums, especially on social media. Most of us underestimate the power of social media and the speed at which information is shared.

Who makes the best pizza in the Overberg?

Before you make a statement or share information, ensure that it is factually correct and that it is to the beneit of all. Should you wish to remain informed, there are at least four highly respected newspapers in our region with social media platforms that can be used as sources of factual and unbiased information. We consider ourselves to be one of these four.

We’d love to hear your opinion on this. Thick or thin crust, soft and foldable or irm and crispy, toppings choice and quality, tomato sauce base, cheese lavour gooeyness... whatever criteria you use to describe a great-tasting pizza.

Let us constantly remind ourselves of the four gates of speech: Are these words true? Are they necessary? Are they beneicial? And are they kind? If the answer to any of these is no, then what you are about to say should be left unsaid.

Send us your thoughts to opinions@thevillagenews.co.za along with your details. No more than 100 words please. The Village NEWS will publish the best ones and keep track of who is winning the most votes.

The season is upon us. Let’s be ready! Success to everyone.

This is the good NEWS – Ed

Iconic SA store embraces Hermanus CBD Writer Sarah Taylor Photographer Taylum Meyer

veritable institution of the Western Cape put down retail roots in central Hermanus last week. The well-known fashion and school clothing store, De Jagers, has set up its 27th store in the Main Road, where Mr Price Home used to be. The Hermanus store opened with a bang just before the mayhem of Black Friday, ofering 20-50% discounts on many international and SA branded and non-branded items. Owner and managing director of the entire family-run enterprise, Andries de Jager, still lives in Worcester, where his father, Japie, opened the irst shop 63 years ago. The De Jagers’ lagship store is still in the same building, with the company’s oices directly above the shop – which is where Japie, his wife Johanna and their children once lived.

Many customers from those early days still recall Andries’ older sister, Jobre, “rolling down the stairs into the shop”.

in Knysna (where they opened a store at the same time as the Hermanus one) and going as far north as Uppington.

While the irst shop began as a ‘quality reject’ store in 1955, selling postWorld War II boots and overalls and later specialised in suits, De Jagers has changed with the times and today the shops stock 80% fashion and surf brands and other clothing, including formal and informal wear, and 20% schoolwear. Most of the stock is still for men, although there is women’s clothing, too.

Andries says he is very happy to have a retail presence in Hermanus, a town he knows well, having spent summer holidays in the area throughout his life, including a stint training as a lifeguard at Sand en See and then working on Grotto and Voëlklip beaches when he was in Grade 10.

“We do a little bit of everything,” says Andries. “We’re like a typical platteland retailer of 60 years ago where there’s something for everyone, from R39 T-shirts to branded items for R399. We stock mostly leisurewear now: T-shirts, jeans, plakkies and takkies. We’re a discount shop, so we have Black Friday throughout the year.” The De Jagers’ stores are predominantly in the Western Cape with the company’s furthest eastern presence

“It’s lovely being in the centre of town, with all its restaurants and there is a nice feel. There are so many tourists here, too, so we’ll have to look at expanding our own-brand Hakkiesdraad range to cater for them too, perhaps with a whale theme,” says Andries. He says that for many of their staf members around the country, working at De Jagers was their “irst and last job”. Andries’ uncle, Jan de Jager, and a staf member, Magmudh Valley, both retired this year after working in the irm for 50 years, while others have been with the company

for 30 or 40 years. “Our staf are like a broader family to us and they instil a friendly vibe for the customers. So inding staf for our new shops is always a challenge as we have to put a lot of trust in them,” he says, adding that he feels very positive about the Hermanus staf. In a nod to the history of the store, De Jagers has positively embraced the somewhat derogatory term ‘japie’ for an Afrikaner, with the Hakkiesdraad ‘Plaasjapie’ and ‘Plaasmeisie’ themed T-shirts. Founder Japie is preparing to celebrate his 91st birthday next year, and Andries says he is still “it and fun” and living with Johanna in Worcester. “They are beautiful people, my parents, We grew up in the business and I’ve worked in the shop since I was at school. My mom was a teacher when she met my dad but, after they married in 1963, she too came to work in the shop, while raising ive children. Even when I was at university doing a B.Com, my parents wouldn’t give me pocket money – but I would work for

money in the shop.” This experience has clearly stood him in very good stead to be in a position to own and manage 27 shops and keep the De Jagers’ lag lying high.

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Reconnect with nature at Bosman Hermanus Writer & Photographer Hedda Mittner

ince the arrival of their ancestor, Hermanus Bosman in the Cape in 1707, eight generations of Bosmans have farmed at Leliefontein, the home of Bosman Family Vineyards near Wellington. Fast forward to 2001 and that name turned out to be prophetic when Jannie Bosman (Snr), searching for the perfect place to plant Pinot Noir, found his way to Hermanus and discovered that the Hemel-en-Aarde region provided the perfect cool-climate terroir that he was looking for. The De Bos farm, now home to Bosman Hermanus, comprises over 200ha of breathtaking landscape, with its vineyards bordering the De Bos Dam on Karwyderskraal Road. It turned out to be not only the perfect place for vines to grow, but also the perfect place to ind peace, to discover the wonders of nature and reconnect to ancient paths. The rich history of Bosman Family Vineyards is a testament to the family’s respect for the land and the people who farm it, and their commitment to the art of winemaking. Over time, they have grown to be a leading producer of Fairtrade wine from South Africa, devoted to responsible handcrafted wine produced from handpicked vineyards. The Hemel-en-Aarde Valley is a special place, known not only for its vineyards but also for its unspoiled landscape, unique fauna and lora and scenic vistas framed by the mountains and ocean. The Bosmans’ desire to share this special place on a more personal level led to the launch of a tasting venue on the farm in December last year. Aptly named the Frame House, this modest structure perches lightly in a ield of fynbos. Every efort was made

Frank Woodvine was thanked for his hard work and devotion to re-establishing nature and wetland trails on the Bosman Farm, which were dedicated to him at a function last week. to minimise its impact on the landscape, using only simple wood and canvas instead of brick and mortar. No excavations were made and the Frame House blends in seamlessly with its natural environment. Here visitors can kick back and enjoy the peaceful atmosphere and magniicent views while sampling a wide range of award-winning Bosman wines and indulging in a picnic of seasonal local fare either indoors, on the deck or in the shade of the large tree that takes pride of place next to the Frame House. The more adventurous are welcome to explore the farm and amble up the mountain path to absorb the stillness, broken only by the rustling bushes or soft bird call. Several new hiking trails have been laid out by well-known local conservationist and botanist, Frank Woodvine and his team, which make their way through various habitats ranging from farmland to wetland and from fynbos to renosterveld. Besides the beautiful natural vegetation, hikers might be lucky enough to spot the odd ribbok, perhaps a duiker or even a porcupine.

Frank reports seeing a caracal which is a very rare ind as this is a nocturnal animal, but baboons also put in a regular appearance. Last week Farm Manager Gerhard Bruwer and his wife Karen, who runs the tasting room, hosted a special celebration at the Frame House to honour Frank for his valuable work in clearing the farm of invasive alien vegetation and laying out the hiking trails, which have been dedicated to him with a special plaque erected near the Frame House. The function was attended by a large group of guests who all play a leading role in local environmental conservation, including members of the Hermanus Botanical Society, the Hacking Group and Whale Coast Conservation. Although well into his eighties, Frank continues to work tirelessly for the sustainable conservation of our biodiverse fynbos environment. In a career spanning more than 60 years he served as curator of Fernkloof Nature Reserve and later as superintendent of Nature Reserves, Parks and Gardens for the newly established Overstrand Municipality for almost

Frank Woodvine (middle) with Derek Silberblatt and Gilly Louw. 20 years, developing the hiking trails in the reserve and spearheading ecotourism in the area. Since his “retirement” in 1995 he has served as chair of the Fernkloof Advisory Board, become a founder member of the Clif Path Management Group and is a life member of the Hermanus Botanical Society. He is also wellknown for his work as environmental consultant at Bouchard Finlayson and other wine farms in the Hemel-enAarde region. In keeping with Bosman Hermanus’ desire to conserve the environment, bookings have been limited to 40 per

day, and a nominal fee is required to enjoy the hour-long, self-guided hike. Mountain-bikers or day trippers are welcome to enjoy a cup of barista-made cofee at the Frame House or to enjoy a wine tasting and a picnic afterwards. Children are very welcome. For more information: www.bosmanhermanus.com taste@hermanusbosman.com 063 083 5571. ‘Uncle Frank’ with Karen and Gerhard Bruwer, and ‘Spiderman’ Vic Hamilton-Attwell.

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28 November 2018 | FOOD

Stanford Stumble The 7th annual Stanford Stumble held at Stanford Hills on Saturday 24 November was once again a huge hit among locals and visitors alike. This popular event is a fundraiser for the Butterly Foundation’s centre in Stanford, which provides education for children who do not cope in the mainstream schooling environment. Those attending the Stumble paid an entry fee and chose whether they wanted to run, walk (or stumble) a distance of 3 or 5 km through the farm’s beautiful vineyards, dressed in their most outrageous outits. Both routes ended back at The Tasting Room where the tired walkers could reward themselves with local wines and beers, as well as a variety of delicious foods. Live music from The Rivertones and Takura Terry added to the festive atmosphere and many couldn’t help but get up and move to the rhythm. While the grownups were enjoying themselves the children were kept equally entertained by a juggler on stilts, playing on the jungle gym, trampoline and slip ‘n slide, and even canoeing on the farm’s pond.

ABOVE: Jandré Kempen enjoying a cold Old Harbour beer at this year’s Stanford Stumble. BELOW: A group of merry-makers finish the 5km ‘stumble‘ in style. PHOTOS: Taylum Meyer

“The gees this year has been incredible,” said Jami and Peter Kastner, owners of Stanford Hills and founders of this popular event, “and so has been the support!”

BELOW: Peter Kastner (Stanford Hills), Simone Heunis (L2L Committee), Jami Kastner (Stanford Hills) and Claire Watt.

GAS SUPPLIES T: 028 312 2020

28 November 2018 | FOOD

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Charities to beneit from Night of 1000 Drawings Night of a Thousand Drawings, the charity event that will be hosted by the 19 Hermanus First Friday (HFF) Artwalk galleries on 7 December, is fast approaching and the HFF committee has been inundated with applications by local charities. Whereas in previous years three charities were chosen as the recipients of the funds raised during Night of a Thousand Drawings, this year the decision has been taken to increase the number of beneiciaries to ive charities. It is hoped that last yearâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s total igure, which was in excess of R80 000, will be surpassed so that each charity will receive a substantial donation. The ive selected charities are: The Hermanus Visual Art and Design Centre. This organisation provides art and design classes for children from across the Overberg â&#x20AC;&#x201C; many of whom cannot aford even the most basic art equipment and supplies.

The Hawston Cadet Group. More than 50 children from Hawston, ranging in age from 8 to 13, belong to the Cadet Group. The aim of the organisation is to give children a positive and safe environment, to provide them with leadership skills and through music and marching, to teach them the value of team work. The Hermanus Art and History Project. Based on the Keiskamma Art Project in the Eastern Cape, this endeavour seeks to create skills and develop potential earning power for previously untrained people through the teaching of art, embroidery and sewing. Each gallery will be selling a huge range of A5-size artworks during Night of a Thousand Drawings â&#x20AC;&#x201C; some donated by professional artists and some by amateurs. The artworks will be priced at R100 each and all the proceeds will be donated to these charities.

The Overstrand Whale Boxing Club. The OWBC was established in order to take children of the streets, teach them discipline and give them a sense of belonging and pride. There are currently 40 children in the club; this year Sipamandla, a 16-year-old, won the SA National Championship.

If the galleries are to reach their target, however, they will need the assistance and generosity of the Hermanus community. Over the next week, anyone with artistic skills is asked to paint, draw, sketch or scribble away. A5 cards can be collected from any of the participating galleries and completed artworks should be handed back to the galleries before 6 December.

The Overberg Crane Group. This NGO works across the Overberg and has had a hugely positive impact on our population of Blue Cranes; saving injured and diseased birds, forging relationships with landowners and providing a valuable rescue, treatment, and release service to secure the future of this iconic bird.

Night of a Thousand Drawings will kick of at 17:00 on 7 December, when hundreds of HFF Artwalkers will throng the streets and alleys as they stroll from gallery to gallery, searching for beautiful artworks to purchase and in so doing, changing lives for the better.

28 November 2018 | BOOKS

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Landmark events through the eyes of an editor “Memoirs are written by people who have lost their memories. I have published that view many times, and now it seems true in my own case. However, I believe that a witness’s wandering personal recollections may add truth, relevance, insights and some balance to the countless versions of world and South African history over the last 150 years.” This extract from Hermanus resident Harvey Tyson’s latest book, End of the Deadline – Behind the news 2, echoes the ninety-year old author’s self-efacing stance and light-hearted handling of the landmark South African and world events he witnessed during his 44 years as a full-time journalist.

Tyson’s concerns that the accepted standards of a credible printed press, such as editorial independence, plus adequate checks and balances aimed at ensuring veracity of the facts, be transferred from the old medium to purveyors of news in the current online conveyor belt era.

matters is that the deadline not only concentrates efort, it provides both discipline and precise accountability. This is because all news reporting exists within the river of time. Floating

on the current and merely changing published facts intermittently, as news broadcast stations and blogs are inclined to do, avoids a great deal of accountability. Newspapers, on the other hand, have had to stand by their printed news and their public apologies for all of time.” Closest to Tyson’s heart have always been the beliefs of the right to publish in the public’s interest; the existence and maintenance of a free press as well the complementary requirement from press owners that their editors are granted full independence.

In terms of how the daily deadline of the printed press contributed to maintaining news standards over the last century, Tyson says: “… what

As part of the Johannesburg Star’s 1987 centenary celebrations, at a time when press freedom was under continuous daily threat from increasingly restrictive legislation and ruthless security agencies, Tyson, against the odds, organised a landmark international conference in Johannesburg to discuss “Conlict and the Press.”

And while the new book follows-on from his autobiography, The Other Side – Behind the news 1, End of the Deadline, it deals more with the rise and fall of the printed press, fascinating exposés of its heroes and villains, and the future of news reporting. It also outlines

It was due to accomplishments like this and the daily struggle in which he and ‘opposition Press’ editors like him were engaged during apartheid that he

The author, Harvey Tyson, discussing his latest book End of the Deadline Behind the news 2

received the Pringle Award from the South African Society of Journalists. It reads in part: “In making the 1990 Pringle Award to Mr Harvey Tyson, the judges recognise Mr Tyson’s untiring eforts during his career (to adhere to) the principles of a free press and the right to publish… he has displayed a total commitment to a single principle: the right of the public to be informed. To this end, he has consistently published material in the face of opposition from the authorities and, on numerous occasions, in the face of legal threats.” End of the Deadline will have wide appeal for all aicionados of news events that made history, and with Tyson’s standing in local and international journalism circles this is a must-read for all journalists and those interested in the rich history of our country.

“Journalism will kill you, but it will keep you alive while you’re at it.”

What’s new in review | Compiled by Hedda Mittner

Penguin Random House

Jonathan Ball

Jacana

Weidenfeld & Nicholson

Faber & Faber

HMS Erebus was one of the great explorer ships, a veteran of groundbreaking expeditions to the ends of the Earth. In 1848, it disappeared in the frozen wastes of the Canadian Arctic, its fate a mystery. In 2014, it was found. This book is its story, evocatively brought back to life by Michael Palin – Monty Python star, television globetrotter, master explorer and storyteller. Erebus follows the ship’s life, from its launch in 1826 to the epic voyages of discovery that led to glory and, ultimately, catastrophe. He explores the intertwined careers of the fascinating men who illed the ship and shared its journeys, vividly recounting the experiences of those who irst stepped ashore on Antarctica’s Victoria Land and those who, just a few years later, froze to death one by one in the Arctic ice, beyond the reach of desperate rescue missions. penguin.co.za

This fascinating account of a pivotal moment in South African history describes not only the background to the Royal Tour across the country in the specially commissioned white train, but also provides an interesting analysis of the politics of the time and the society, fractious as ever, which welcomed King George VI and Queen Elizabeth and their two daughters, Princesses Elizabeth and Margaret. The tour was a show of Empire solidarity and a recognition of South Africa’s role and contribution to the Allied cause during World War II under Prime Minister Jan Smuts. But one year later, in 1948, Smuts’ government was defeated in a general election and the Nationalists under D.F. Malan came to power, setting South Africa inexorably on the path to becoming a Republic. The tour had truly been British South Africa’s last hurrah. - jonathanball.co.za

François Levaillant was the irst and greatest South African birder, the irst major igure of modern ornithology, the creator of the irst safari, the irst anthropologist of the Cape and our irst investigative reporter criticising colonial brutality. He created several beautifully illustrated bird books and his Travels into the Interior of Africa was a best seller across Europe. This book tells how, for a quarter of a century, South African researcher Ian Glenn searched for Levaillant’s travel notebooks and the fate of his collection and tried to solve the puzzles and mysteries of Levaillant’s life and times. Glen’s fascinating search took him from the banks of the Orange River to the vaults of the Paris Museum where no Dan Brown hero ever went, facing 30 000 dead birds alone in search of Levaillant’s legacy. – jacana.co.za

From the ingenious comic performer, founding member of Monty Python, and creator of Spamalot, comes an absurdly funny memoir of unparalleled wit and heartfelt candour. Relecting on the meaning of his own life, Eric Idle takes the reader on an entertaining journey from his childhood in an austere boarding school through his successful career in comedy, television, theatre, and ilm. Coming of age during the sixties and seventies, Eric found himself rubbing shoulders with the likes of George Harrison, David Bowie, Robin Williams, Mick Jagger, Mike Nichols and Paul Simon, all of whom became dear lifelong friends, along with John Cleese and the Pythons themselves. In this New York Times bestseller, Eric captures a time of tremendous creative output with the kind of ofbeat humour that has delighted audiences for ive decades. – amazon.com

Barbara Kingsolver returns with a timely novel that interweaves past and present to explore the human capacity for resilience and compassion in times of great upheaval. Having arrived at middle age with nothing to show but a stack of unpaid bills and an inherited home in Vineland, New Jersey that is literally falling apart, Willa Knox begins to investigate the history of the house in the hope that the local historical preservation society might provide funding for its direly-needed repairs. Through her research she discovers a kindred spirit from the 1880s, Thatcher Greenwood. In alternating chapters, Willa and Thatcher tell the mezmerising story of two families, in two centuries, who live at the corner of Sixth and Plum, as they navigate the challenges of surviving a world in the throes of major cultural shifts. – goodreads.com

28 November 2018 | BOOKS

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Remember her name: this girl is going places Writer Elaine Davie

er name is Nyasha Makwarimba (known as Nash), a Hermanus High School pupil who has just completed her matric. Despite having her hands full with studies and sport, she was honoured at the school’s recent prize-giving ceremony with a special award for having completed 100 hours of community service! Her involvement came about by accident. She was singing in a jazz concert in Stanford last year when she was approached by Lesley Beake, Director of the Children’s Book Network (CBN) and asked if she would be prepared to come and sing for the group of primary school children who participate in her weekly reading workshops. Neither of them could have imagined how this experience would change both their lives.

these last two years has been to see how the children have blossomed. To start with, when they listened to a story, their eyes were blank; they struggled to concentrate. Despite the fact that they are between 9 and 12 years old, they couldn’t read and had no understanding of content. Now most of them read luently and with comprehension and their imagination is radical. We sometimes use books with no words, just pictures, and they tell a story about what they see. It’s incredible what they pick up.” So excited was Nash about the project that she persuaded some of her friends to join in and the Teen Team was born. Apart from Nash herself, it consisted of Jacques Rossouw (sport), Jude Victor (arts and crafts) and

“One of the most exciting things for me in these last two years has been to see how the children have blossomed.” After the irst workshop she attended, she was hooked. As Lesley says, “She sprang into the workshops as a volunteer and gradually revealed just how talented she is. Singing, dancing conducting the CBN choir, tie-dying T-shirts, helping with any and all activities – there seemed to be nothing she wouldn’t turn her hand to…” “You know what”, remarks Nash, “Lesley saw potential in me and my involvement with the children brought out a side of me I didn’t know was there. The children taught me patience and just to be myself. I don’t need to be anyone else; it’s good enough just to be me. And that rubbed of on them, too; they started believing in their own potential and their own self-worth. We all started learning that it doesn’t matter where you come from, you can do whatever you want. “One of the most exciting things for me in

ice-breaking exercises, and playing a reading board game with the children, role model, Nash soon found herself also doing the basic admin for the workshops. Before she knew it, she had participated in 60 sessions this year alone. Now it’s over, for the time being at least. She is setting out to conquer the world, starting in Malta, where she has friends. “I will do anything, as long as it teaches me new skills. I’m not going to waste my time waitressing – that doesn’t teach you anything useful. Yes, I’d like to study further, but I irst want to experience the world out there. Then, if I eventually go to University, I will go there to learn, not to be side-tracked with Fees Must Fall and stuf like that. I think I might want to get into business management, or maybe something like journalism, photography, that kind of thing – or maybe I’ll start my own CBN,” she laughs. But, happily for CBN, although all the members of the current Teen Team will be moving on, the Headmaster of Hermanus High School, Greg Hassenkamp has agreed to keep the project supplied with new volunteers as part of the school’s community outreach initiative. As Nash says, “There’s already a bunch of them keen to start from the beginning of next year. I’m so proud of the school,” she bubbles, “there’s just so much love there, there’s a beautiful vibe; the teachers are great, but Mr Hassenkamp is just the most awesome principal. I’m so privileged to have been there at the same time as he is.”

Siphonathi Thebele and Lutho Vanqa (music). Although each workshop can accommodate only 20 children, sometimes 60 would turn up, many of them littlies who became known as Little CBN. All of them were kept busy with fun activities, from arts and crafts to sports, singing or story-telling. The Team, together with facilitator Vuyo Siza, also recently launched the CBN choir, consisting of 20 members, who gave their irst performance on Heritage Day to a group of visiting German Rotarians. Now, full of conidence, they are keen to perform for anyone who will have them. So from starting with singing, dancing, reading and story-telling, then moving on to

And so we wish Nash ‘Bon Voyage’. She wants to do everything, learn everything, experience everything, give everything, go everywhere – and she’s in a hurry! We know she will make a rich contribution to whatever she tackles, wherever she goes. But we need her back in this country to share what she has learnt in the wider world. Young people with her level of energy, enthusiasm and talent will undoubtedly make our country great again.

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Hermanus Hacking Group Join in the ight against alien vegetation. Contact Charlyn on 082 558 8731 or mcvosloo@mweb.co.za for more information. Rotary Drive | 07:00

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HERMANUS Thursday

Gingerbread House decorating competition

Everyone is welcome at Friends of the Library’s last Bhuki Cafe of the year. Enjoy a cup of tea or cofee and delicious eats for only R20. Every cup helps to raise funds for new books. Hermanus Library | 09:00 – 11:30

Lights of Remembrance

BirdLife Overberg outing

Overstrand Hospice invites you to a special candle lighting ceremony to celebrate the memory of loved ones. Bring your picnic baskets, blankets and camping chairs, and enjoy this special time with family and friends. Drinks and food will be on sale, as well as candles at R50 each, in aid of Overstrand Hospice. Fernkloof Nature Reserve | 18:00 – 20:00

Steve Peck will lead birders on an outing to the Napier district concentrating on waterbirds at the local sewage works and Overberg Wheatbelt along selected gravel roads. To catch a lift at a R75 petrol levy, meet in the parking area of the Eastclif Spar. Those travelling to Napier directly can meet up at the sewage works between 08:00 and 08:15. Bring along a picnic basket. RSVP: Anton birding@overberg.co.za or sms 082 550 3347. Eastcliff Spar | 07:00

Disco Revival Get your friends and colleagues together, dress in your grooviest gear and get ready to boogie at this good old-fashioned disco revival of the ‘60s, ‘70s and ‘80s, all in aid of Hermanus Frail Care Centre (Sofca) Tickets are R120 pp and tables of 10 are available. There will be burgers for sale and a cash bar at club prices. Only 18 years and over. Tickets available at Sofca or contact Gayle on 082 836 8975 / 028 312 3236 or sofca@telkomsa.net Sandbaai Hall | 20:00

Pop-up Netball Enjoy a fun-illed day on the beach with your favourite players. Learn and improve your of-pre-season itness, skills and individual / positional work. Tailored to all abilities and all ages, with fun activities for the whole family. R250 pp includes a goodie bag. For more info and to enter, contact alzeenvlotman@gmail.com or lizathorpe@icloud.com. Grotto Beach | 09:00 – 12:00

Team up with your young ones and take up the challenge of turning a plain and simple gingerbread house into a sweet and colourful show house! The winner will receive a R300 voucher to enjoy at Die Markie on a Saturday morning. The entry fee of R300 includes the plain gingerbread house, all the decorating candies and icings you need to win, a chilled drink and an experienced gingerbread artist on hand to provide tips and guidance. For bookings, email anika@hpf1855.co.za. Hermanuspietersfontein | 15:00

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 winecellar | 09:00 – 13:00

Onrus Markie This friendly community market ofers home-made crafts and homebaked goodies, from vetkoek, pancakes and rusks, to biltong, ish cakes and dried sausage. De Wet Hall, Roos Street, Onrus | 09:00 – 12:00

Goozi Arabesque Kitchen

Join Eunice Rademeyer as she shares her passion for Arabic-Mediterranean food. On the menu at this cooking demonstration is Bstilla bil Djaj – an all-in-one-meal that is substantial enough to feed the entire Christmas crowd, is easy to prepare and makes you – the hostess – look like a Christmas superstar! R120 pp includes a tasting portion. Call Megan to reserve your seat on 028 312 4979. Goozi Kitchenshop | 10:00

Sunday

Afdaks Sunday Craft Market Unique handmade crafts, yummy food, craft beer, gin and wine, honey and olive oil on tap, kids’ entertainment and lots of parking at this family and pet-friendly (on leashes or in cages, please) market. For enquiries contact Lani on 082 679 7819 or visit their Facebook page (Café Tango & Afdaksrivier Nursery). Café Tango, Afdaksrivier Nursery, R43 | 10:00 – 14:30

Africa’s Great Parks

Safari guide, ilm maker and author Ian Thompson will present a talk and slide show on Africa’s Great Parks and the Serengeti Wildebeest Migration. Learn about the best way and time to experience reserves such as the Okavango Delta, the Vulcans National Park, Chobe/Vic Falls, South Luangwa and Etosha. RSVP to ruth@imergeconcepts.com / 082 886 2818 or sharon@imergeconcepts. com / 082 568 9949. R180 pp includes welcome snacks and a donation to Overstrand Hospice. Hermanus Golf Club | 17:30

Hermanuspietersfontein Die Markie

Music in the Courtyard Kolwyntjie Teetuin

Jo Martin live

Enjoy a sweet treat and tea or cofee at a nominal fee, and make new friends at the Onrus Care Centre (Dienssentrum). Onrus Dutch Reformed Church | 09:30 – 11:30

Enjoy the honest, heartfelt music of Jo Martin as he performs live at this popular venue. Call 028 312 4665. Gecko Bar, New Harbour | 20:30

Economic Review

Saturday

U3A’s Economics Home Group will give feedback on their discussions during 2018, centred on nefarious goings-on in South Africa’s economy. Situations observed during the past year will be compared with the latest developments. Catholic Church Hall | 10:00

Hermanus parkrun Meet for the weekly 5 km walk or run, come rain or shine. The route is dog friendly and children are most welcome. Camphill Road, Hemel-en-Aarde Valley | 08:00

Hermanus Country Market The locals’ favourite. Young, old, two-legged and four-legged family members are all welcome. You’ll ind wholesome goodies, home-made crafts, local produce, beers, wine, speciality foods, cofee and live music. Hermanus Cricket Field | 09:00 – 13:00

Market in the Garden Hunt for treasures at this peaceful market set among the shady trees of a beautiful garden. St Peter’s Church | 09:00 – 13:00

Enjoy summer tunes in The Courtyard with Takura Terry and DJ Kim, oysters and bubbly, wine, craft beer and tapas. For more info or to reserve a table, call 028 312 2553. The Wine Glass, 2 Harbour Road | Every Sunday | 12:00

Monday

Cosmology Join the Hermanus Astronomy Centre for a presentation on Natural Philosophy: Science for the non-Scientist. For enquiries contact HAC Secretary Peter Harvey on 081 212 9481 or petermh@hermanus.co.za. Catholic Church Hall | 19:00

Sushi Saturday

STANFORD Friday

Stanford Sunset Market The best outdoor evening market for local food, wine, beer, food, gifts, crafts and music. Plenty of space for kids to play on the historic village green. Come and do some Christmas shopping while experiencing a taste of village life! Market Square | 18:00 – 20:00

Saturday

Join The Zesty Lemon Restaurant for their last Sushi Saturday of the year. Linger in the beautiful garden around the dam at this scenic venue nestled between vineyards and mountains. For bookings contact 028 341 0647 or 082 405 1280. Sir Robert Stanford Estate, R43 | 12:00 – 16:00

Meet the winemaker

Saturday Morning Market

Wednesday

Hermanus Photographic Society Everyone is welcome at the last monthly meeting of the year to celebrate the club’s achievements in 2018. For more info on their activities, outings, challenges and workshops, visit www.hermanusphoto.co.za or send an email to Daniel Reddie at info@hermanusphoto.co.za. Herman Swart Hall, Hermanus Dutch Reformed Church | 19:00

Thursday

Book launch The Book Cottage and Vindigo Press invite you to the launch of Featherstream, a WWII romantic suspense novel set in the Cape. Meet the author, Ian Sutherland and learn more about the historical research that provides the background to this unique tapestry of wartime intrigue and romance. RSVP: bookcott@hermanus.co.za. The Book Cottage, Long Street | 18:00

St Nicholas at Creation Creation Wines invites you to a joyous celebration where Saint Nicholas meets Riedel. R350 pp includes a three-course meal paired with Creation wines and a presentation on the ine art entitled What’s in a Glass. In the true spirit of St Nicholas, children will be welcomed with a surprise gift and can enjoy their own festive menu under the supervision of two childminders. RSVP by 04/12 reservations@creationwines.com Creation Wines | 18:30

TESSELAARSDAAL Saturday

Tesselaarsdal Festival Invite family and friend to share a day of joy at this annual festival hosted by Tesselaarsdal Hiking & MTB Trails and Die Kweker. There will be an MTB race, round-trips, competitions, craft stalls, food, drinks, music, dance and the crowning of Miss Tesselaarsdal. Children R40, adults R80, VIPs R100. Tickets available at www.quicket.co.za. De Postkantoor, Tesselaarsdal | 08:00 – LATE

Yummy fresh artisanal goodies, from home-baked breads and delicious confectionary to handmade sausages and fresh veggies. Stanford Hotel stoep | 09:00 – 12:00

Stanford Junktique Come and start your treasure hunt – you never know what you might ind. R50 per vendor, free for registered charities. Contact 028 341 0340 or oice@stanfordinfo.co.za. Tourism Office courtyard | 09:00 – 12:00

Sunday

Panthera Sunset Visits

Meet Hermanus-based winemaker Alwyn Liebenberg and enjoy a sixcourse tasting menu paired with Lieben Wines’ lagship range at the Manor House Restaurant. R695 pp for the food & wine pairing dinner or R1 495 pp for dinner, bed & breakfast (2 people sharing). Booking is essential on 072 198 0862 or info@stanfordvalley.co.za. Stanford Valley Guest Farm | 18:30

Gravel Road Carnival

Panthera Africa Big Cat Sanctuary near Stanford invites you to visit their four-legged friends as they come alive after a long day of rest. R490 pp (only for people 16 years and older). All proceeds from ticket sales go towards creating a better life for the animals. Get all the details at www. pantheraafrica.com. Panthera Africa | 17:30

With a tarred surface on the cards, the Hangklip Hotel says good-bye to a road well-travelled over many years. To mark the end of an era, you are invited to join the farewell carnival on a walk along the road to the hotel, where festivities will continue with live music and food stalls. Meet at The Anchor/Pam Golding parking area. For enquiries contact the hotel on 028 273 8310 or Ali on 082 457 9403. Hangklip Hotel | 10:30

BOT RIVER Saturday

Honingklip Dog Walks

KLEINMOND Saturday

Kleinmond Market Free entry, ample parking, arts and crafts, food stalls, local handmade items, live music – a great outing for the whole family. Contact Erna on 076 708 0818. Mthimkhulu Village | 10:00 – 14:00

Walkers, hikers, runners, dogs and kids are all welcome to join in the monthly walks on the farm. They also ofer 4X4, MTB and running trails. For more information call 071 136 5307. Honingklip farm, R43 | 08:00

GANSBAAI Friday

Christmas Lights Merriment Festivities kick of with a street march from the library at 18:45, followed by more entertainment in the Pep parking area from 19:00. Formalities will start at 20:00, with the Christmas lights switched on at 20:15. Bring your own chair and enjoy an evening of Christmas spirit. There will also be food and gift stalls. For more info or to book a stall, call 028 384 1439. Gansbaai Library | 18:30

Saturday

Farmer’s Market Specialising in organic, homemade and homegrown products such as fresh farm produce, free-range eggs, oven-fresh bakes and pastries, artisanal breads, homemade crafts, preserves, juices, cofee, craft beer, local wines and indigenous plants and herbs. No plastic or polystyrene packaging, only eco-friendly wood, paper, glass and earthenware used to display goods. Contact info@ gansbaaitourism.co.za. Kapokblom Street, opposite Gansbaai Tourism | 09:00 – 14:00

ELGIN Thursday

South Hill Movie & Book Club Join South Hill and Liberty Books for their end-of-year soirée, with drinks from 18:00, supper at 19:00 and movie screening at 20:00 of the adaptation of Nick Hornby’s novel, High Fidelity. Bring your copy of the book or contact christy@libertybooks.co.za / 083 774 3850 to get one. The evening will also include the Icelandic Christmas Eve tradition of jolabokaflod - a festive book exchange. R135 pp. Contact events@southhill.co.za or 021 844 0888 to book. South Hill Vineyards, Valley Road | 18:00

28 November 2018

www.thevillagenews.co.za

Almost every day there is a glorious sunset

Salt pan a feather in Vermont’s cap

Writer & Photographer David J Wilson

ermanus has a fully-justiiable reputation for its “champagne air” and also the whales that pass its shores, but there is one lesser-known jewel that despite over ten years of coming here as a visitor, I only discovered when I became a full-time resident two and a half years ago. This is the Vermont Salt Pan, a 17 ha internally-draining (the technical term is endorheic), water-illed depression located just west of the border of Vermont and Onrus and just south of the R43. With the Onrus Mountains to the north and rocky outcrops, sand dunes and the sea to the south, the Pan was originally fed from a small waterfall, runof from the mountains and seepage from the adjoining wetlands to the west. This admittedly very small body of water, which in some years totally disappears for a few months (as it did this year) is a haven for birdlife and I daily wonder why it is not better known. Twitchers (bird watchers) will travel miles and face undue hardship and stress for decent birdwatching and here it is so readily accessible and truly a relatively unknown jewel of Hermanus. Indeed, in July, I spent three hours of hill climbing with the Hermanus Bird Club at a reserve in the Overberg and managed to see 14 species (well, actually saw or heard 14 species). Later

that same day, in just 20 minutes, that number seen alone was exceeded at the Vermont Salt Pan. Indeed, birdlife on the salt pan includes at times over 600 migratory lamingos (both Greater and Lesser) and the sight of them wheeling and circling the pan in a coordinated aerial ballet is just not to be missed. Mind you, that doesn’t happen every day, but bird sightings can include both White-Breasted and Reed Cormorants, Grey and Black-Headed Herons, Little and Western Cattle Egrets, Egyptian Geese, and Hadeda and Sacred Ibis. Other regular visitors include the Black-Winged Stilt, the Pied Avocet and a wide variety of plovers, ducks and gulls. The loss of that waterfall, prolonged desertiication and a change of runof patterns as a result of nearby residential developments, has made the lake increasingly saline over the years so that there is no longer any ish life, and despite what the birdlife boards say at the pan, there are therefore no kingishers or darters.

“An undiscovered jewel... a truly great one for locals and visitors to enjoy.” Today the pan might not support any ish life but it does support aquatic vegetation and this attracts a variety of insect life including spiders, damsellies and praying mantises – a good food source for much of the birdlife and in the evening, bats. What is

notable is the species of reddish brown long-jawed water spider that creates daily webs close to the water to trap mosquitoes, gnats and even other spiders. But the pan has always been saline, as before much of this development took place, there is anecdotal evidence indicating that salt was being scraped from the pan during the early part of the 20th century. So it must be assumed that much of the saline nature of the pan today is natural and not the result of human activity. However, that does not detract from the fact that the pan is threatened today. Run-of that is so important in illing the pan – and this year it is way below its normal level – is being impacted by natural watercourses that used to serve the pan being blocked due to lack of maintenance or worse still, being “adopted” by the adjacent property owners to become an extra piece of garden. Then there is the prospect of more intensive development at Paradise Park which, unless strict controls are put in place, will not only spoil the natural look of the pan but also take away some natural run-of as soak-up grassland is replaced by impervious concrete. Then there are the periodic fatalities of the bird life blamed on low water levels and the resultant blooming of toxic blue-green algae, perhaps partly the result of constructing a nesting platform within the lake that has attracted scores of cormorants. This has resulted in a rise in nutrient levels from increased bird droppings, in turn leading to bacterial infections. The problem is most extreme when temperature levels are high and at times local residents also complain bitterly about the smell! What makes the pan so attractive is the easy access from both Rockhopper Street and Fulmar Street/Shearwater Crescent from the adjoining

White-Breasted Cormorants nesting on the rocks

Birdlife on the salt pan includes over 600 migratory flamingos, a sight not to be missed.

residential areas, making this a highly popular and well-frequented park for dog walkers and others seeking the solitude of the location. What is of great concern is that dogs not kept on leashes can create undue disturbance to birdlife. Most owners are of course very responsible but others not so. There have been two recent examples, one of a dog being allowed to roam free through the rushes that rim the pan and another where a dog attacked a nesting

cormorant and most probably killed it. These owners seem not to care and neither, it seems, does the local council, who have bylaws to enforce that require dogs to be kept on leashes, but this is rarely enforced. Located at the eastern edge of the pan is a milkwood woodland thicket under which can be found marine shell-midden remains – evidence of Khoi-San people who lived around the lake two to three thousand years ago. Today that same appeal has been noted by rough-sleepers and the inebriated who create a great deal of left-over rubbish. In two hours one morning, a group of just ive of us picked up 11 full bags of rubbish to place by the collection bins – admittedly they were still there six days later, which is why there should

be dedicated rubbish collection not only at the pan, but at other greenspaces throughout town. The pan was further threatened when, in December 2016, a mountain wildire came to within 300m of the eastern end of the pan and only a change of wind saw the conlagration move west towards the communities of Hawston and Fisherhaven and later die out without any serious damage. Despite the threats the pan is still very much a jewel with, aside from

its birdlife and solitude, some truly glorious sunsets. And on the western side of the pan is an enclave of the endangered Blue Orchid or Bloumoederkappie, only discovered in 2012 after the clearing of invasive vegetation in the area. This beautiful orchid is regarded as one of the most threatened orchid species in South Africa. So there is every reason for the pan to be protected from threats and it is hoped that in due course a consortium of interested parties will ensure that it will not remain just an undiscovered jewel for Hermanus but a truly great one for locals and visitors to enjoy. Visit us on www.thevillagenews.co.za for more great photos.

www.thevillagenews.co.za

28 November 2018 | ART

Congratulations - see if you’re Hermanus FynArts - looking a winner! back to move forward Ticket sales for Hermanus FynArts from 8 to 17 June this year reached a new record and were up by just over 8% on 2017 sales. This achievement was reached despite the adverse social and economic conditions that prevailed in the town before and during the festival. At the sixth Annual General Meeting of Hermanus FynArts held on 20 November, festival director Mary Faure also indicated in her presentation, Looking Back to Move Forward, that feedback on FynArts 2018 was generally very positive and that the organisers were taking heed of the constructive comments received. “We will be addressing issues like the poor visibility from certain areas of the Hermanus Dutch Reformed Church, requests for more theatre, the potential for growth of the Strauss & Co series of talks and presentations, modiications to the chef demonstration programme and increased numbers of workshops and events for the youth. The latter will be especially relevant for the closing weekend next year, which will be both a long weekend and the irst weekend of the school holidays.

Congratulations to our two winners in the Tronette’s Table competition! Shellean Jones and Tom Jourdan have each won an exceptional dining experience at Origins Restaurant at The Marine as the guests of Head Chef Tronette Dippenaar. The two winners will be able to bring along a date for a three-course meal, including two glasses of bubbly, either for lunch or dinner, on any day between now and 15 December. Bon Appetit!

“I am excited that we will again be able to present a ten-day festival illed with art in various forms to enrich and entertain our growing number of festival goers,” she said. FynArts 2019 is scheduled from 7 - 17 June and the programme will be released in January. After the AGM, the coordinator of the Friends

of FynArts, Joanna Hardie, oicially launched the Friends of FynArts 2019. This initiative was started last year and encourages everyone who attends and enjoys the annual FynArts Festival to become a Friend in order to support the festival and be associated with its activities. Friends contribute to the vitality of the festival as funds support productions and outreach events. The Friends of FynArts enjoy a number of special events throughout the year, most of which are free of charge, as well as priority ‘early bird’ booking for all the events. Following the enthusiastic support of last year’s Friends initiative, Corporate Friends of FynArts was launched this year as many local businesses have indicated their interest in supporting the festival. The irst individual Friend of FynArts to renew her membership for 2019 was Gillan Bowie, and the irst Corporate Friend to sign up for this new initiative was Tania Fourie of the international golf tournament for women professionals,The Global Challenge. To find out more about becoming a Friend of FynArts contact Chantel Louskitt on 060 957 5371 or admin@hermanusfynarts. co.za. Membership fees: Annual member - R300 per person / R500 per couple; Lifetime member – R3 000 / R5 000 per couple; Corporate member – R1 000 per annum.

28 November 2018

www.thevillagenews.co.za

Quintessentially Qonya Writer Leigh-Anne Hunter

here is something about Ayanda Qonya’s bold yet wearable designs that just makes you smile. “I believe that what you wear should make you feel happy,” says the 28-year-old designer, who is wearing one of his signature, wildly colourful suits, awash with tribal prints. Ayanda gets his inspiration from nature. He was born in the Free State and raised among the green hills of the Eastern Cape, in the town of Dutywa. “My clothes are bright, like nature,” he says. He irst explored his creativity as a child, moulding “cows and tractors” out of clay. “I was always good with my hands.” What I love are the clever touches. The back piece that unzips to reveal a diferent design… the band of shweshwe on the cufs… Some pieces are splendidly colourful, combining multiple prints in a way that feels put-together rather than jarring; while others are minimalist with just a smattering of geometric design that is nevertheless as impactful. “I want my designs to make people say, ‘Wow, how did he come up with that’?” Ayanda recently moved from Gansbaai to Zwelihle. “As the largest town in the Overberg I felt there would be more opportunities in Hermanus.”

He has given himself a huge project – designing 34 garments in just one month for a local fashion show. It’ll be Hermanus’s irst fashion show by a Zwelihle designer. Ayanda’s work will be the main feature but the show will also feature several other talented Zwelihle designers. “It’s going to be a lot of work, but I’m determined.” This is his big shot. While great strides have been made in the fashion world internationally – he is a big fan of David Tlale and Gert Coetzee – Ayanda believes there is a gap in the market for accessible dayto-day clothing that combines both modern elements and tribal prints. “I want to inject a little South African chakalaka,” he says with a smile, “and get not just tourists but South Africans from all races to start wearing more tribal print and being proud of our fashion. I want people to see one of my designs overseas and say, ‘That’s from South Africa’.” Ayanda, who completed a sewing course at Learn to Earn in 2013, sews his creations himself from his home in Zwelihle. “I like peace and quiet while I work.” He started of designing and making matric dance dresses and this year founded his label, AyandaQonya. But now he must excuse himself from the interview… He has 34 garments to make.

The Runway Fashion Show Exhibition takes place on 14 December from 18:00 – 22:00 at the Hermanus Municipal Auditorium. Book via ayasclothingrange@gmail. com or 0661329728 (call) or 0719749462 (WhatsApp). Tickets can be collected at the Cape Whale Coast Tourism Office or The Village NEWS office in Royal Street. The cost is R50 for general admission; R150 for VIP, and R300 for VVIP tickets.

PHOTOS: Kai van der Riet

Those interested in sponsorship opportunities (materials, sewing machines, etc), can please contact Ayanda on the above email or phone number.

PHOTO: Taylum Meyer

TOP LEFT: Qhamisa Mahangu and Thelma Chibvonge. TOP RIGHT: Bongolwethu Notshokovu. ABOVE: Thelma, Qhamisa and Bongolwethu in Ayanda’s clothes. Thelma is one of the two hair and make up artists that will be at the fashion show in December. All three of the girls will be modelling. LEFT: Ayanda Qonya (PHOTO: Leigh-Anne Hunter)

28 November 2018

www.thevillagenews.co.za

MY WELLNESS Walking back to happiness Writer & Photographer Elaine Davie & Charles vd Merwe

t the age of 80, she reminds one of a moth, light as air, moving with purpose and poise, as if to the manner born. Her movements are natural, unhurried, like those of a child or an animal, without stress or strain. For over 30 years, Marguerite has been on a personal journey to discover the principles of free movement though the Alexander Technique, the practice of T’ai Ch’i Chu’an, Qi Gong and the art of walking nature’s way. This, in turn, has led to an understanding of how the physical is indivisible from the psycho-spiritual aspects of being human and the belief that it is possible to create true balance in our lives with consciousness and grace. She considers it her

responsibility to pass on this accumulated wisdom to others who are seeking a similar way in the world. Nothing in her childhood foreshadowed the direction Marguerite Osler’s life would take. Born into a grounded, conventional Methodist family, her father was a well-known sportsman, who later became headmaster of a private church school in Natal with a proud tradition of educational excellence. The three children, Marguerite and her two brothers, spent a carefree, culturally-rich childhood within a clearly-deined value system. It was this set of morals that perhaps played the strongest role in their lives, despite the fact that they all stepped across the boundaries of convention. Her one brother, Maeder, became a teacher and journalist as well as an anti-apartheid activist, while the other, Antony, having been trained

as a lawyer, became a Zen monk and teacher. Both currently farm in the Karoo, where Maeder is engaged in seeking a solution to the land issue and to developing skills-training for farm workers. Marguerite’s adult life started conventionally enough: after getting married, she and her husband settled down to farming in what was then Rhodesia. However, the times were anything but normal and they soon found themselves caught up in the Zimbabwe Liberation War or Chimurenga. Marguerite’s husband was seriously injured in a small plane crash, which, eventually, led to his death. Shaken to the core, she and her two children returned to South Africa and to Cape Town in particular, where her introduction to a teacher of the Alexander Technique changed her life forever. As she explains: “It was all about learning how to use your body as nature designed it. By restoring its sensitivity and alignment, releasing tension and stress and creating awareness, we bring the whole of ourselves back into balance and harmony. If you look at the way children move, there is no efort; it is lexible

and relaxed. But as we grow older, we get into bad habits – we slouch, we strain, the body loses its suppleness and strength and our health begins to sufer. “The main thing about the Alexander Technique is that it is whole-body knowledge, it is not physical exercises,” she continues. “The starting point is the creation of consciousness and psycho-physical alignment. It is not an active, harsh exercise regime, which can do the body harm; instead, it is a scientiic, gentle way of undoing bad habits, restoring good posture, rebuilding body strength

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28 November 2018 and focus. In fact, it’s the foundation of all physical movement, which revolves around the way we sit, stand, bend, walk and do what we do in every day life.”

insisted that they get away for a while to give her a chance to heal. In China, she was exposed to T’ai Ch’i, which she describes as “the ultimate body/ mind exercise art”.

It had such a major impact on her own life that Marguerite became a ‘disciple’ of the technique and trained for more than three years in both Cape Town and London. The process of awakening which started with the Alexander Technique went into overdrive as she was exposed to people like Deepak Chopra, the 5 Rhythm Consciousness Dance movement and a variety of Eastern philosophies. And this, too, became the springboard for her extensive back-packing travels to the Middle and Far East, starting with Iran, Morocco and Syria and her fascination with Persian poetry, which continues to this day.

Derived from an ancient martial arts form it is a sequence of slow, almost dance-like movements which is beautiful to watch, and its efortless, unstrained movements not only strengthen the body, but increase stamina and create a sense of emotional tranquillity.

After her return to Cape Town, in addition to a full-time public relations job for an industrial corporation, she started to teach the Alexander Technique. Then, for a second time, she was faced with a seismic personal tragedy. By that time, she had re-married and her husband, Charles

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Having studied T’ai Ch’i and Qi Gong, a similar technique, this became a second arrow in her teaching quiver. When she and Charles ‘retired’ to Kleinmond a number of years ago, she added Walking to that list, which she describes as “the conscious path to health and the richness of well-being – not far and fast, but walking nature’s way, tall and strong and free and easy”. Now, at an age when most people are taking life easy, she is busier than ever, running two T’ai Ch’i groups a week in Kleinmond and two Body Sense Alexander Technique sessions

bi-monthly at the Temenos Retreat Centre in McGregor. Every year she runs a weekend retreat at Temenos and the Buddhist Retreat Centre (Ixopo) which, in addition to all three of the disciplines she teaches, include the enjoyment of good food, music, story-telling, poetry and meditation, as well as an immersion in the richness of the natural environment. “I have seen the most miraculous changes take place in people’s lives at these workshops,” she says, “and that is wonderful for me – that growth, that awakening – wonderful!” And, as if that was not enough, she runs walking sessions when and where she is invited to do so, as well as other, purpose-designed weekend workshops around the country. In 2009, in her desire to spread the message of the therapeutic value of walking, she published a book under her maiden name of Marguerite Osler, called The Art of Walking. Much more than an instruction manual on how to walk, it features beautiful photography, poetry and philosophical soul food. Looking back on a full and eventful

life, Marguerite tries to condense the things that have inluenced her growth: “I think I’ve become aware of how important it is to stay physically active, but also to remain curious about everything around you and never to stop stretching the boundaries of the imagination. “For me, qualities like honesty and respect, not only for other people, but for all of creation are cornerstones. And to learn to listen – we have all lost the art of really listening to one another, I think. One of my favourite writers is Krishnamurti and he sums it up, ‘Teach the young the art of observing and the art of learning. Teach them the art of listening – and you have taught them everything.’” For more information contact Marguerite on 028 271 4555 or email margsmerwe@telkomsa.net

Marguerite performing T’ai Ch’i on Kleinmond beach.

28 November 2018

www.thevillagenews.co.za

MY HOME GAS INSTALLATIONS

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

Sectional title vs freehold insurance Whether you own a sectional title property inside a residential housing complex, or whether your home is a free-standing house in a suburb is usually an indication of whether you prefer a lock-up-and-go lifestyle or a more traditional, suburban life. However, your choice between sectional title or freehold property also has direct implications for your insurance needs. If you reside in a sectional title unit, the body corporate of your residential housing complex is required by law to take out insurance for the physical structure of your home. The monthly premium for this usually forms part of the monthly levy that you pay the body corporate. One thing to be aware of with sectional title units is that if you have done alterations to the structure of the unit, and it no longer looks exactly like the other units in the complex, you need to let the body corporate know so

they can inform the insurer. “Some sectional title units allow the individuals to make structural changes to their units, with the result being that not all units within the complex will look exactly alike,” says Louis Hay, Head of Short-Term Insurance Propositions at Standard Insurance Limited. “The problem is that this is not usually the case so if the body corporate takes out insurance for the complex and the insurer has not been made aware of the alterations, it could afect the replacement value and hence the premiums. If the insurer has not been informed it could create issues in the event of a claim.” People who live in freestanding homes, also called freehold, are usually required by their mortgage provider to take our insurance that covers the physical structure of their house against unforeseen events like storm damage, ire, landslides or earthquakes. Once the home is fully

paid for and is in your name, one could theoretically dispense with this insurance, but Hay warns that this would be ill-advised. “Your home is usually your most valuable asset so the last thing you want is to spend twenty or thirty years paying it of only to lose it because of a ire or some other disaster,” he says. “It’s always a good idea to make sure your most valuable assets are insured.” One important piece of advice is to make sure you insure the house for its replacement value and not its market value. For example, your home may be worth R2m in terms of who much you could sell it for, but the cost of rebuilding it could be considerable higher. In the event of severe damage from a ire or earthquake, there may also be additional costs like rubble removal and site clearance as well as engineer and architectural fees.

“You must make sure you insure the house for what it would cost you to rebuild in the event of an unforeseen disaster and not the market value,” says Hay. “The main reason for this is that the housing market often takes a dip during tough economic times, but the cost of cement, bricks and labour usually continues rising.” Yet another consideration that one needs to bear in mind is that insurance by deinition is designed to cover sudden and unforeseen events and not issues related to maintenance. Your homeowner’s insurance, which covers the physical structure of your property, would therefore cover things like earthquakes, landslides, ire and storm damage. However, gradual damage that occurs over

time due to things like rising damp or even land slippage may not necessarily be covered as these would be deemed maintenance issues. “As with insuring a car, your insurer expects to be insuring a roadworthy vehicle so by the same token, when you insure your home your insurer expects that it has been properly constructed and that the foundations are able to withstand the gradual movement of land,” he says. “Once of events or so-called acts of god like massive storms or landslides are entirely diferent from gradual issues that occur over time and are often related to maintenance.” – sapropertyinsider.co.za

28 November 2018

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MY SPORT Astro lights switched on at new Hermanus Sports Club Writer Nanette Ras Photographer Mia Lubbe

he Helga Eichenauer Astro is an ongoing project which has been a vision since 2010. After sourcing a number of generous donations from members of the Hermanus community, Hermanus High School constructed the hockey ield on the Hermanus Sports Club grounds. The funding for proper lighting at the astro still had to be addressed, as this would allow the community to utilise these premises to the full. With the support of the Overstrand Municipality, the necessary funds were requested from the Western Cape Government to cover this phase of the project. This funding was made available, and on 20 November Minister Anroux Marais from the Department of Cultural Afairs and Sport had the honour of switching on the lights. The minister complimented the public/private partnership that allowed for these premises to be completed. The bulk of the funds came from donations, without which this magniicent world-class facility would not have been made possible.

BACK FROM LEFT: Shaun Luyt, Helga Eichenhauer, Greg Hassenkamp, Bern van Niekerk, Christiaan de Wet, Eddie Lanuti, Russel Metcalf, (FRONT) Thinus van Schoor, Liezl Skein, Mayor Dudley Coetzee, Anroux Marais (Minister of Sport), Elnora Gillion, Arnie Africa, Don Kearney and Arnold Nepgen.

28 November 2018

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MY PET

A meow for help

Protect your pet from these holiday hazards Writer Dr Hilldidge Beer

oliday season is a time of carefree celebration but it is also a time when pet owners need to be more vigilant about their pets’ health and safety. For dogs and cats, summer is a testing time – parasites, lies, heatstroke, dehydration and allergies all pose health risks but if you’re alert to these hazards your pet will enjoy a healthy and happy holiday too. Don’t let the bugs bite Flies, leas and ticks are a summer scourge. They carry life-threatening diseases. Protect your pets by applying parasite preventatives. Choose from chewables, spot-ons, collars, powders and shampoos. Ask your EberVet Vetshop for advice as some preventatives are harmful to pregnant or lactating pets, and not suitable for young animals. Never ever give a cat preventatives meant for a dog. They’re toxic to cats. Microchip Thousands of pets stray and are lost during the holiday season. A microchip is the surest way of being reunited with a lost pet: it takes just a few minutes at your veterinarian and is painless. Put plans in place now If you’re taking your pet with you on holiday, you’ll need to ensure

The owner of this beautiful tabby cat called Flynn is desperate to know if someone may have taken the cat in after it got lost on the R43. Flynn was travelling in the car with its owner on 5 June when she was involved in an accident near Benguela Cove and Flynn ran off. Every effort has been made to locate the cat, to no avail, and the owner is now offering a reward of R2 000. Please contact her on 082 523 3344.

your destination is pet friendly and that there are plenty of places to stop en route for bathroom breaks. You’ll need a lead or harness in the car, water bowl, bedding, litter tray for a cat and toys to keep your pet amused on the long journey. If you’re booking your pets into kennels, do so now. They’re pretty booked up over December. Make sure vaccinations are up-todate Pets that are going to boarding kennels will need up-to-date vaccina-

tions including one for kennel cough. Diseases like parvovirus, distemper and leukaemia are highly contagious and easily spread in environments where pets are in close contact like kennels and in holiday resorts or at the beach. Killer diseases like rabies are endemic in some regions, and that may just be in your holiday town! Brief the pet sitter If your pet is staying home, get the pet sitter around before you leave to chat through all of your pet’s needs. Draw up a list of opening and closing

times for your local veterinarian, as well as emergency telephone numbers for the vet, a close friend and for you. If your pet requires chronic medication, include the instructions for administration. Stock up on food supplies December is a busy retail month so make sure you have enough dog and cat food to last the holiday season, and take yours with you if you’re travelling with your pet. There’s no guarantee you’ll ind the same brand at your holiday destination. If your

pet is prone to allergies, chat with your EberVet Vetshop about food and supplements that help combat itchy skin. Beat the heat Please never leave your dog alone in the car in summer, even for ive minutes while you run into a shop. The temperature inside a car rises at a much faster rate than the temperature outside, putting your pet at risk of fatal heatstroke. And always ensure your pet has plenty of cool, clean water to drink.

28 November 2018

Putting Pirate

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What a Walker Bay week it’s been!

TUESDAY LADIES’ 20 NOVEMBER Our ladies were rained out. Sorry for that but the rain was oh, so welcome! WEDNESDAY MEN’S DAY 14 NOVEMBER Walker Bay Wednesday was sponsored by Ford Hermanus: Tank Coetzee and Wikus Niemand. Alliance bogey plus 140 players Winners: East course - Chicken Basson, Dirk van der Merwe, Andre Sherrif and Brandon Shaw +19 South course - Deon and Frans Esterhuyse, Lowkie Kruger and Tony Runkel +20 North course - John Quincey, Ronnie Visser, Shaun Smith and Simon o Sullivan +17C/I 6 two clubs Ball pool paid to +15 Best gross Tyron Davidowitz 66

By Julian Shaw

reetings to you all again, and what a fantastic week we have had! We had a super Walker Bay Wednesday warm-up and a busy Walker Bay sundowner with over 120 players in the nine-hole competition. Then we had the big one, with 330 players taking part in the 36th running of The Walker Bay Classic. This is our premier tournament of the year and we have players lying in from all over the world to take part. Tournament organiser, general manager and chief whip, Sharon Sleigh certainly did us proud again this year – it was one of the best tournaments to date. New Captain Albert Streicher was at the helm and delivered a mammoth prize table from Callaway Golf. The day started early at 05:00 for the staf and the irst golfers teed of promptly at 07:00. A steady stream of golfers opened their rounds with high hopes, followed by the normal helter skelter of a golfer’s life and ending with a couple of juices and a wonderful spit braai – courtesy of Tullishe le Roux and The Hospitality Group – fond reminiscing and great prizes from Callaway Golf. Well done to all involved and I must

Adrian Kuiper, Dave Bunn, Dirk van der Merwe, Desmond Sauls, Lieb Louw and Mike Frost

say, I haven’t seen the course in such great condition in the 14 years that I have had the privilege of being involved with this great Club. Greens superintendent Malcolm Bromley and Golf Data really did a fantastic job. I know the efort that it takes to prepare a golf course for a major tournament, and I think a pat on the back is well deserved. So, on to the winners. We have all three courses in play, with two sets

of princes and one set of kings. The winners of the South course were D van der Merwe, G van Zyl, H van Zyl and M de Bruin. The winners of the East course were Nico van Vliet, Jaco Lourens, Francois Grobbelaar and Kenny Palm. The North course and overall winners – kings of the 36th Walker Bay Classic – were H Mellish, B McMillan and E Calitz. Well done to all of you!

Scores at a glance

We are the Champions Huge congratulations also need to go to our senior league players who managed to win the 2018 Senior League against Paarl. We played on Saturday at Devonvale and after a tense normal play 18 holes it all ended in a tie 3 wins each side, with Mike Frost, Desmond Sauls and Lieb Louw capturing our points. Then it all came down to a playof. Dirk van der Merwe was the man

for the job, playing against Fransie Lohbauer. Nerves were absolutely on a knife edge as Dirk had lost 7/6 in real-time play against Fransie, but amazingly Dirk pulled a golden rabbit out of the hat and won the playof, much to his team mates’ joy. So, to the 2018 Senior Boland champions, well done – you guys are the best! Cheers everyone and, as ever, play the course as you ind it and the ball as it lies!

Well done, Hermanus Legends! On Saturday 24 November, 250 teams entered the Coronation Double Century, South Africa’s premier endurance cycling event, with 12 riders per team. Hosted by Coronation Fund Managers, the Pedal Power Association and the Cape Town Cycle Tour, this race comprises 202 km of diicult terrain and is not for the fainthearted. Among those who set of from Swellendam on Saturday were the Hermanus Legends, who completed the gruelling event via Ashton, Riviersonderend, Montagu, Barrydale, Robertson and McGregor in a riding time of 7 hours and 15 minutes. The Hermanus Legends would like to thank their sponsor, Harcourts

Hermanus, for their generous support and the branded team shirts. The Hermanus Legends were the only team with a rider who has completed all the Double Century events since 1992, ‘The Legend’ Johann le Roux, who was the impact rider along with Gray van Tonder. The team also thanks their back-up crew, Wayne Haman and Dave Jackson for a job well done. Three Hermanus riders will be participating in the 2019 Absa Cape Epic and eight riders will tackle the Momentum Health Attakwas Extreme in January, one of the toughest one-day MTB events. We wish all the cyclists the very best for their training for 2019.

The Hermanus Legends: from left are Franklin Haman, Imad Zeineddine, Johann le Roux, Karen de Bruyn, Gray van Tonder, Anel Henn, Nellis, Dawie Theron, Raymond van Niekerk, Leon Prak, Andre Van der Merwe and Bertus Van Zyl.

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28 November 2018

MY SCHOOL Hermanus Primary pre-tournament training clinic Writer & Photographer Taylum Meyer The U13A Hermanus Primary hockey boys and girls started with their irst pre-season training clinic on Friday 24 November at the AstroTurf. This training is in preparation for The Hess Tournament that will take place in George from 18 â&#x20AC;&#x201C; 22 April 2019. All of the top schools in the Western Cape are invited to this prestigious tournament where a variety of sports are played. Hermanus Primary is privileged to participate and to use this opportunity to develop their hockey to the next level. On Friday the school was excited to have Ian Naude (owner of Krypton and former SA Hockey coach) attend the irst training clinic. He currently coaches all over South Africa and is also the current coach of the U18A boysâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; IPT team. The U13A Hermanus players were taught a series of drills and techniques before ending of with a friendly match against each other.

ABOVE: Leo Nolan (former WP Master Player) directs a student on the correct way to perform a certain hockey play. BELOW: The U13 girls take turns trying to get the ball past goalie Megan McLaclan.

Kayla Smith of Hermanus Primary School will represent Western Province U/12 girls team at SAJCC 2018 from the 15th to the 24th of December in JHB. Kayla is couched by Marius v.d.Westhuizen and this will be her 3rd consecutive year to go to this event.

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