The Village NEWS 8 May - 14 May

NEWS NEWS

Village

The

8 - 14 May 2018

Mayoral Entrepreneurial Winner

Cape Whale Coast

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Fernkloof plan to be ready by next month De Waal Steyn

T

he revised Integrated Management Plan (IMP) for the Fernkloof Nature Reserve will be ready for comment by the Fernkloof Advisory Board (FAB) and CapeNature by June, says Liezl de Villiers, Environmental Manager of the Overstrand Municipality. “We have been hard at work the past few months incorporating the comments we have received from the public and other stakeholders into the revised plan. It is important for us to ensure that everyone who has an interest in the reserve is happy with the plan. To ensure that the plan conforms to all the standards we have even gone so far as to adapt the structure so that it conforms to the standards and procedures set by CapeNature for the management of nature reserves,� says Liezl.

The revision of the plan follows a public outcry over the original plan that was made available for public comment in September last year. A public meeting in October drew more than 500 people who strongly opposed plans to allow limited developments inside the boundaries of the reserve.

At the time more than 400 letters of objection were received by the Municipality.

According to the draft plan, zip-lining down the Fernkloof valley, a tea garden on top of Rotary Way or a cable way were among the attractions that may be allowed for development in future. The draft plan was compiled by Withers Environmental Consultants and Urban Dynamics Town and Regional Planners in conjunction with the Municipality and other local role players.

BEATING TB WITH BALLET Monike Cristina and Ivan Domiciano captivated audiences with their spectacular performance from Don Quixote. The two dancers were among fourteen professional dancers from the Joburg Ballet who came to perform in Hermanus in aid of SANTA. See more pictures on P 21.

PHOTO: Taylum Meyer

Apart from making provision for possible tourist attractions, the plan also allowed for the extension of the reserve by another 231 ha that would include parts of the Cliff Path in Westcliff, Maanskynbaai, the Grotto area at Grotto Beach, a portion of land on the mountain side of Gateway Centre and an area of land north of Rotary Way close to the Preekstoel Water Treatment Plant.

Continues on P 3

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8 - 14 May 2018

E WS

The Team

6 Royal Street, Hermanus

028 312 2234

THE

NEWS

OPINION Matters

Working towards a new future Publishing Editor De Waal Steyn 083 700 3319 dewaal@thevillagenews.co.za

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

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

Office Administrator Tania Hamman admin@thevillagenews.co.za

The past few weeks have been a time of deep learning and understanding for the various communities of the Overstrand. The question “Have we lost our humanity?” has been used in many conversations.

Social researchers and political commentators locally and internationally have alluded to the situation Hermanus finds itself in after the series of articles published by The NEWS. Following the riots at the end of March the public discourse has been centred around the

Marketing René Hartslief 083 648 8700 ads@thevillagenews.co.za

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

question: How can we help?

The Cape Whale Coast is well-known for its kind and caring nature and judging by the amount of donations, offers of financial assistance and requests to assist those in need, this spirit is alive and thriving. Homes are being rebuilt, shops refurbished and restocked, and small entrepreneurs helped to get back on their feet. All of this thanks to the generous spirit of our people.

What has become clear, however, is that formal channels for creating public-private partnerships needs both

attention and management.

The Village NEWS has been inundated with calls from businesses and individuals wanting to help make a difference for those who need it most. Many of them were however frustrated by a lack of information on how and to whom assistance could be given.

We thank those companies and individuals who have offered up their time, money and resources to help make a difference.

The Municipality has already agreed to streamline the pro-

cess for public-private partnerships and The NEWS, in partnership with Mike Mathews, founder and Honorary Life President of Hospice Hermanus, will create a comprehensive guide of NGOs, NPOs and social organisations in the Overstrand.

A total of 47 entities have already been identified and we call on our readers to send us more information on this. A guide will soon be published that will allow our residents easy access to information on charitable organisations in our region.

This is the good NEWS – Ed.

Hit us with your best shot!

Young and old are taking up their cameras and entering the Village NEWS photo competition. The prize? To have your photo published in the first edition of the month!

Freelance Journalist Elaine Davie 084 343 7500

REQUIREMENTS: ■ Photographs should be at least 1 MB in size anything smaller will not be entered ■ No over-editing ■ No more than three photographs per entrant will be accepted ■ Your name and surname must be included in the email as well as a short description of the photo (where it was taken, what is happening in the photo, etc.)

■ Send your entries to taylum@thevillagenews.co.za

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

WHERE TO FIND US The Village NEWS is published every week and the next edition will be available on 15 May. The NEWS can be found at more than 100 distribution points on the Cape Whale Coast, from Pringle Bay to Gansbaai.

Get your FREE copy from major retail stores such as Spar, Checkers and Pick n Pay, and at restaurants, tasting rooms, galleries and shopping centres. Should you wish to receive a copy, call us on 028 312 2234 or 083 228 7523 or pop into our office at 6 Royal Street, Hermanus.

INTO THE BLUE Mist comes off of a barrel wave about to break ashore in front of the Windsor Hotel. PHOTO: Waldo Uys (14)

So start clicking! All photos entered will be uploaded to our Facebook page where readers are welcome to go and like their favourites. You have between now and 31 May to send us your photographs. The first winner will be published in our 5 June edition.

Weather forecast for the next week & De Bos Dam level Tuesday 8 May

15°C / 18°C Partly cloudy

Wednesday 9 May

15°C / 18°C Clear

Thursday 10 May

Friday 11 May

12°C / 19°C

15°C / 19°C

Partly cloudy

Partly cloudy

Saturday 12 May

13°C / 19°C Clear

Sunday 13 May

Monday 14 May

14°C / 14°C

15°C / 17°C

Partly Cloudy

Cloudy

www.yr.no De Bos Dam Level

38.2 % full

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8 - 14 May 2018

Everyone must be happy with plan From from P 1 After the public meeting the deadline for comments was extended by a month and the undertaking given that the plan would be reworked before being presented to FAB and CapeNature for approval.

At the meeting the Municipality indicated that the size of the Potential Development Management Unit (PDMU) would be reconsidered, after several parties

objected to its size and location, which would extend high up into the mountains of the reserve.

“We take the management of Fernkloof Nature Reserve very seriously and through this plan we want to ensure not only the future preservation of our exceptional natural kingdom, but also create the opportunity for more people to visit the reserve, allowing us to cultivate respect

for nature and its continued conservation,” says Liezl.

FAB Chair Duncan Heard says they are eagerly awaiting the amended report. “I know what a huge undertaking it is to write a plan like this and therefore we understand that it takes time. We will work with the Municipality and CapeNature to ensure that the plan conforms to the expectations of the public and

current legislation.

“After we have approved the plan, it will be essential that it be made available for public comment once again. Residents of the Overstrand are passionate about their reserve and they need to have input in the final plan before it is approved by council. It is important to keep in mind that these processes take some time to complete,” says Duncan.

Mama to get new roof and house Following two weeks of frantic behind the scenes work, a grandmother of Zwelihle will soon have a brand-new roof over her head after the house she lived in in Zwelihle was damaged in a fire in December last year.

Mama Ntombokqala Bambiso (63) lived for almost five months with her two children and three grandchildren in the house without electricity and a roof so badly damaged by the fire that the sky was visible from every room.

After her plight was made known on social media by members of Zwelihle Revival, donations and pledges of assistance flowed in, but attempts to renovate the house were frustrated after the Municipality found that structurally the house was not sound enough to live in.

According to Abagold HR Director Lou-Anne Lubbe, the Abagold Development Trust had agreed to supply the labour needed to repair the house, but when the building team arrived on Thursday morning to start the work, they were ordered to leave the premises by Municipal officials. The house is the property of the Municipality.

“We were highly frustrated by this as we drew up a complete work schedule to ensure that the work could be completed as soon as possible and that the family would have a roof over their heads before the rainy season started in earnest.

“The Trust has done many repair jobs to Municipal buildings in the past, but this is the first time we were denied access to a site,” says Lou-Anne.

Municipal Director of Community Services Roderick Williams says they have been aware of the damage to the house since the fire and requisitions to start repairs were already issued in February this year. “Shortly after the fire, we lodged a claim with our insurance company, but they took too long to pay out, so we decided to replace the roof and the electricity box with funds from the operational budget,” he says.

“When the Municipal team arrived at the house to replace the roof and the electricity box, they found that the whole structure was unsafe. A building inspector was called out and he declared the building irrepairable and suggested that it be demolished.

“After negotiations with the community and Abagold we have now decided to go ahead and demolish the building. We have negotiated a memorandum of understanding with the Development Trust to supply the labour to rebuild the house up to roof level.

The Municipality will put on a new roof and reconnect the electrical supply,” says Roderick.

Sicelo Gxamesi of Zwelihle Renewal, however, questioned the timing of the Municipality’s de-

cision to start work on the house.

“If they were aware of the problem and found that the insurance pay-out took too long, why did they not repair the house earlier?” he asked.

“I was the one who contacted Abagold and together with other benefactors we were able to arrange with Build it Hermanus to sponsor some of the building material. Only after we put in long hours of work to assist the family and were ready to start work did the Municipality show up and find that the building must be demolished. As a community we are thankful for all the assistance we received but we are angered by the fact that the family was not helped immediately,” says Sicelo.

According to him they have also received an offer from Buco Hermanus to assist with the repairs of the Police Station and library that were damaged during the riots in March. “As community leaders we feel responsible to do the repairs to these buildings even if it was the work of unwelcome criminals who took advantage of the tense situation at the time.

“None of our communications with the Municipality in this regard were answered. We would like to repair both buildings as they fulfil a vital role in our community,” says Sicelo.

He added that the community was disappointed with the Muni-

cipality and that the time has come for them to take as great care with Zwelihle and other townships as it does with any other suburb or town.

Roderick says the Municipality has been in contact with Buco and that they would like to prioritise the repair of the Police Station. “It is important for us to follow the correct procedures with regards to assistance when it comes to public buildings. We are still waiting for an assessor to visit the station and thereafter we can enter into a memorandum of understanding with those who want to assist with the repairs. In terms of the legislation we need to be able to audit a process like this to ensure that all is above board,” he says.

He says a decision on the future of the library will be made once it is clear whether the structure will be used as class rooms for Qhayiya Secondary. “We were able to save most of the books and they are in storage with the Provincial Library Services. When there is certainty about the future of the library, we will be able to stock it again,” he says.

He adds that he will request that an assistance form be created so that everyone who wants to help with donations, funds or materials can register with the Municipality to ease the process of forming public-private partnerships in future.

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8 - 14 May 2018

Walker Bay Recycling – waste not, want not Elaine Davie

R

emember that because you no longer need or want something, it doesn’t mean that someone else doesn’t want or need it.”

This is the sentiment expressed

by Johan van Taak, Solid Waste Manager: Planning, of the Overstrand Municipality.

It is the underlying principle behind all forms of recycling, whether of clothing, cars, appliances or a range of reusable domestic or commercial and industrial pro-ducts. It means giving something a second chance at being useful and, at the same time, keeping our environment as clean and productive as it is meant to be.

With a growing awareness of the dire state of the world’s oceans, clogged as they are with non-biodegradable plastics which are decimating sealife, comes the understanding that if nothing is done about removing the mess humans are making of the entire natural environment, our own future on this planet is ultimately doomed.

So, what’s to be done about it?

On the one hand, it is to persuade every human being on earth to accept responsibility for not polluting the environment by discarding used and unwanted ‘stuff’ wherever they go, in rivers and streams, city streets and picnic spots; on country roads, sports fields and mountain peaks. On the other hand, it is to offer an alternative: to recycle waste, so that it can be reused in a different form.

The Overstrand Municipality has established a trend among non-metropolitan government structures in the Western Cape, which is seen as a model to be copied. By first establishing a two-bag system of waste removal (following a suggestion by a local citizen) in 2002, succeeded by a mechanised

system of recycling in 2010, it has been able to show how productive this form of waste disposal can be.

Apart from its hugely beneficial impact on the environment, other concomitant benefits include saving valuable disposal space at the landfill site, which is under serious pressure, as well as the time and costs associated with transporting waste to the landfill site and creating new landfill cells. Another major advantage is the creation of both formal jobs and informal income-generating opportunities for local residents.

Municipality collects the black and clear bags from residents’ homes once a week and delivers them to the Transfer Station next door to Walker Bay Recycling. Here they are separated, the black bags going out to the landfill site and the clear bags next door.

The contents of the clear bags are sorted, usually mechanically, but presently manually, according to the type of material they contain: glass, paper and cardboard, plastics, metal, etc.

Solid Waste Manager of the Overstrand Municipality, Johan van Taak and Jan van Niekerk, owner of Walker Bay Recycling.

Sadly, this progressive development was severely impacted during the recent social unrest in Hermanus when a major section of the Walker Bay Recycling Depot was completely burnt down, including the mechanised conveyer belt system and the entire electrical system which so greatly facilitated the sorting and baling process.

Fortunately, no lives or jobs were lost, but the 43 people employed by the centre have now had to return to basics, sorting the contents of the clear bags manually, a timeconsuming and less-effective system. Everyone is hoping that it will be possible to replace the mechanised system without delay.

Jan van Niekerk, owner of Walker Bay Recycling which is contracted to the Municipality to undertake its recycling programme, has been in this business for the past 23 years and has never been faced with a similar challenge, but he remains optimistic and his excitement about the importance of the project remains undimmed. His centre processes all the recyclable waste from Hermanus and Kleinmond, while a smaller unit in Gansbaai deals with the waste from there and Stanford.

The way it works is this: the

Johan van Taak indicates the damage to the conveyor belt system after the recent protests.

Johan suggests that if residents are unsure about whether something is recyclable or not, they should include it anyway and when it is sorted at the depot, the non-recyclable material will go out to the landfill site with the blag bags. “The only thing is, whatever is included must be clean and dry,” he emphasises.

At the depot everything recyclable is processed, so, for example, all the paper and cardboard products are crushed and baled for easy and space-saving delivery to either Cape Town or Johannesburg. When it comes to plastic bags, Jan van Niekerk throws up his hands in desperation, “Probably 80% contain filler which decreases the production cost, but renders the bag unrecyclable. Even most of the bags that purport to be recyclable are not,” he sighs.

Johan calculates that about 60% of local Hermanus residents are currently recycling.

“Of course, we would like that figure to be closer to 100%,” he smiles, “but we are very grateful for the support we get from residents and businesses. We would like to ask them to persuade holidaymakers and ‘swallows’ they may come into contact with, to do the same when they are in town.”

Walker Bay Recycling provides employment to 43 people such as these women who sort the recyclable materials.

Over and above the people employed full-time in this

scheme, the Recycling Depot also encourages residents to collect waste from the streets and other places where people congregate and take it to the depot in black bags, where they receive payment. Through the Recycle Swop Shop project, children also collect and drop off recyclable materials.

“One thing we cannot emphasise strongly enough, though,” says Johan, “is that we do not buy copper in any shape or form, or, for that matter, anything we suspect might be stolen. We also don’t allow children to visit the Swop Shop in the mornings when they should be at school; only in the afternoons.”

Johan and Jan are undoubtedly two unsung heroes in the fight to keep this beautiful part of our province and country pristine and productive.

They need all the support they can get from every citizen of the Overstrand. It’s not a hard thing to do, it doesn’t cost anything and your children and grandchildren will thank you in years to come for saving their heritage.

What can be recycled?

• Paper and cardboard • Glass • Plastics of all kinds, including plastic bags (some cannot be recycled, but leave it to the experts to make the selection) • Tins • Other metal objects (excluding copper!)

• Old appliances (fridges, washing machines, etc) • Wooden objects (tables, cupboards, chairs, etc) • Fabric, including old clothes • Electronics (e-waste) • Hazardous waste (poisonous substances, batteries, car oil and grease, but not medical waste) If in doubt, call Jan van Niekerk at Walker Bay Recycling (028 312 2035) or Johan van Taak at the Overstrand Municipality (028 313 8000).

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8 - 14 May 2018

How big is a mother’s love?

I

How would you sum your mom up in just a few words?

DUKE: Loving, kind, calm and understanding.

MARNUS: Kind, compassionate, strict and hardworking.

LUKA: Emotional, compassionate, resilient and a confidant to all – strangers and family alike.

n previous years, The Village NEWS celebrated Mother’s Day by talking to wellknown mothers and daughters in Hermanus and sharing their experience of the motherdaughter relationship with our readers. This time around we realised that right here in our office we have three single moms who each has a pigeon pair – an older daughter and a younger son. And we all know that raising a boy is a completely different kettle of fish to raising a daughter, with some of the greatest parenting challenges arising during the pre-teen and teen years.

While many presume that a mother has a more intimate bond with her daughter, we also know that this is hardly the case. The relationship may be different, but it is a no less fulfilling or significant one. In fact, it was Ralph Waldo Emerson who said, “Men are what their mothers made them”, illustrating the importance of the deeprooted bond that boys have with their mothers.

Not only is it imperative to their emotional health and overall development, but the emotional connection is always there, to the extent that much of their behaviour later in life is attributed to their relationship with their mothers.

What do you admire most about your mom?

DUKE: Her ability to stay calm in difficult situations and making the best of a bad situation.

MARNUS: She’s not afraid to be herself and doesn’t hesitate to say no.

LUKA: One of the things I admire most about my mother is her determination to complete a task to the best of her abilities, despite the struggle or inconvenience involved.

Duke and Nickey Jackson.

Studies have shown that boys who share a healthy relationship with their mothers from early childhood are emotionally intelligent, secure and confident, and are believed to have fewer behavioural problems throughout their lives. They are able to articulate their thoughts, perform better academically and are more likely to become successful professionally and personally.

Marnus and Tania Hamman.

A close relationship with his mother teaches a boy to appreciate and respect women in general, enabling him to be a good lover and life partner. It has also been said that boys raised by mothers are less likely to believe in male stereotypes. They know they don’t always have to be tough and that they don’t have to get into fights to prove their manliness. They believe there’s nothing wrong with crying and are better at expressing their emotions and forming long-lasting friendships.

- Source: momjunction.com In order to hear directly from them, we asked Duke, the 15-year-old son of our graphic designer Nickey Jackson; Marnus, the 16-yearold son of our bookkeeper Tania Hamman; and Luka, the 22-year-old son of our content editor Hedda Mittner, about their relationship with their moms.

What do you and your mom enjoy doing together?

DUKE: Everything we do together we enjoy.

I can also talk to my mom about everything.

MARNUS: We enjoy watching movies together while eating dinner.

LUKA: Talking about art, books, music, history, family and local governance; watching movies; having supper together over a glass of wine; and going on trips to places new and old when the opportunity arises.

What are the most important things you learned from your mom?

DUKE: To stay calm when I’m feeling aggravated.

MARNUS: To just say no if you don’t want to do something, to appreciate people for who they are, and to always try your best.

LUKA: To be kind to myself. One of the most enduring things my mom has, consciously or not, passed on to me throughout my life is emotional awareness.

What is the worst thing your mom has ever done to you?

DUKE: Showing my baby photos to a girlfriend.

MARNUS: Taking away my PlayStation cables and not letting me go out with friends.

LUKA: I would have to say it is a tie between picking me up from a friend's sleepover party when I was 10 and deeply wanted to stay, and calling me a delinquent for having done what most teenagers do at 14.

Hedda Mittner and Luka Dreyer.

What kind of mother-in-law and grandmother do you think your mom will be one day?

DUKE: A good one. She is already rocking the grandma thing with my sister’s baby.

MARNUS: An awesome one, baking cookies and stuff.

LUKA: A deeply nurturing one, committed to not only loving, but truly understanding my little spawn.

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8 - 14 May 2018

THE

NEWS

Let’s Talk

Send your letters to dewaal@thevillagenews.co.za

A call for all hands on deck to change inequality "All hands on deck” is the call for all members of a ship’s crew to come to the deck, usually in a time of crisis. By extension, it is used as a call to everyone available to help with a problem. I am now making that call.

We are privileged to live as a community in this slice of heaven that is called the Overstrand Municipality.

Living here, however, comes with responsibilities that include ensuring all those who live here enjoy the right to equality and the same basic human rights.

But how equal are two of the high schools located 3 km apart? Hermanus High and Qhayiya Secondary are both public schools, yet the differences between the two should be unbelievable, except that the proof is clear to see. Are these pupils experiencing equal education? I think not, and welcome residents to visit both schools.

We need all hands on deck to rectify this situation.

How equal are the communities of Westcliff and Zwe-

lihle, located only one street apart?

The living conditions are so far apart that it should once again be unbelievable. My brother from Cape Town once joked about how strange it is to see Khayelitsha next to Constantia.

It’s interesting to note that the street separating the two neighbourhoods is named Church Street…

I hope that these two examples are enough to convince you to join this call to action. It’s a call to become an active citizen and no longer leaving it to the Municipality to maintain this slice of heaven. The mistakes of the past should not be allowed to continue into our future.

The Overstrand has enough resources, both state and private, which, if allocated equally, will result in a better quality of life for all. This is the choice we all have to make: Do we share, or do we continue to live in an environment where a street is called Bergsig Street when

it starts at Curro Private School, passes the mall and then changes names to Mbeki Street when it crosses into Zwelihle?

It then changes names again into Malva Street as it passes Mount Pleasant Primary, only surviving until it reaches Swartdam Road and then changing into Steenbras Street as it goes through the Hermanus industrial area.

At the end of the road it disappears into Snuffels, the destination of many other used items. It would be funny if it weren’t so strange.

This is one road that has a different name every time it passes through different communities. This we must change!

All hands on deck.

William Ntebe Zwelihle Youth Cafe @RDP Centre, Corner of Zuma and Mbeki streets (evidence that even they could meet at a point)

Congratulations to the Overstrand Municipality I must congratulate the Municipal Manager and his Human Settlement staff for spending 100% of the Overstrand Housing budget, operating and capital budget portion, for the last three financial years. This is by far more than most Municipalities in the country, who do not come close to this type of

consistent spend.

This despite the extreme difficulties in managing a national subsidy housing project. There are external threats to staff, contractors and consultants. They also have the challenges of compliance legalities of the MFMA, EIAs TIAs and

planning approval. There are also Municipal housing budget allocation constraints arising from the National Human Settlement Department.

Congratulations to the Overstrand Municipality!

John Sterne

Please make Westcliff Road safe I refer to my letter that was published in the 6 June 2017 issue of The Village NEWS (Speeding on Westcliff Drive is ruining the area) and the subsequent letter by Mr Alec Dawson.

This follows years of petitions by Hermanus residents on the state of Westcliff Road.

Alec catalogued the accidents on Westcliff Road in the last few years, some fatal, and quite rightly pointed out that the Municipality is potentially liable if further accidents should happen. Mr Coenie Groenewald referred to a report that was commissioned for end of June 2017.

Westcliff Road is a key attraction for tourists and most recently used for many of the events during the Walkerbay Xtreme between the new and old harbours.

Now, almost a year later, Westcliff Road is even more dangerous with the installation of a nonsensical 'choker' at Orothamus Road (see picture) that does absolutely nothing to slow down traffic and puts cyclists and pedestrians in mortal danger as they are funnelled into the same channel as speeding vehicles. There is nowhere

Both Alec and I lamented the state of speeding, nightracing and illegal overtaking on Westcliff Road and agreed that it was another accident about to happen.

to go – it is like a game of tenpin bowling!

The circle at Albertyn Street has also done nothing to slow down traffic as the horizontal deflections are minimal, apart from being an unsightly mass of tar and pavers.

An integrated speed-calming plan for Westcliff Road as a Class 4 road and as a key attraction of Hermanus, is long overdue. I would also like to understand how any of these interventions are signed off by council and professional engineers without serious questions about professional liability. Please make Westcliff Road safe, Mr Groenewald?

Eduard, Westcliff Road

Building regulations should protect environment I have read your article in the My Home section of The Village NEWS, 24 – 30 April edition, concerning building projects.

I note that Mr Stephen Müller from Overstrand Municipality contributed to the article, by reciting the building regulations, without making any comment on the Building Department’s role in the protection of the environment or protecting the interests of neighbours.

During a recent nine-month building project in Onrus, the building contractor used the reserve area in five of the neighbourhood properties on a continuous basis for the storage of materials, concrete

mixing, and the storage of rubble from pneumatic-drill activity which in itself lasted continuously for five weeks.

The Building Department took no obvious action.

Also, surely Mr Müller must admit that before awarding planning permission, the Building Department should consult with direct neighbours on the implications involved with the project itself, and the negative aspects which the proposed building would create when completed.

These include the serious issue of the permanent degradation of functionality of security measures. This, in an area predominately

occupied by elderly ratepayers on a permanent basis.

Lastly, the article repeats the wording of the Overstrand website, concerning building plans, which in the first sentence states that “all building plans are available at the Building Services offices at any time during office hours”. Yet in the next sentence it states that plans are only available to owners, or those with their written permission, after a fee has been paid. Presumably the same amount that Ratepayers must pay the department if they wish to make a complaint.

Gerry Cassidy

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8 - 14 May 2018

Internships lead to greater understanding for students

T

here is great excitement among the youth in Hermanus for the official opening of the new Generation Varsity. This brand-new tertiary institution will offer several courses and will expect students to also do internships alongside their academic studies.

you, for taking me in with open arms. I will most certainly miss each one of you.

Thank you for everything that all of you taught me during my week at The Village NEWS.

According to Generation MD Jevron Epstein, the final touches are being made to the brandnew, state-of-the-art campus and re-gistrations for 2019 will open in July.

The Village NEWS was lucky enough to host one of the students, Arthur Dalbock, for a week at our offices. This young man, clearly destined to become a successful businessman, made quite the impression on all of us here. This is his take on the week: As a student of Generation International College I'm currently in my first year of studies towards a master’s degree in business management, which consists of four years and basically means that by the time I’m 20 I should have my master’s degree. I’m doing all of this through Generation Schools, right here in Hermanus. The course entails academic and practical work, ensuring that I know how to apply what I’ve learned in the work place.

My first internship was at Cambridge University Press. I worked in a very big office, with everything from graphic designers to HR, accountants and marketers, the list goes on.

Studying business management gave me the wonderful opportunity to join the marketing team. Being a big company like Cambridge meant that everything was obviously very formal but to my surprise I loved it!

Arthur Dalbock at The Village NEWS office in Royal Street.

My second internship was at The Village NEWS which was also in an office, yet it was different, as the publisher/editor, De Waal Steyn, displayed a lot of compassion. It was truly exciting to meet De Waal since I had heard so much about him from all the locals. Everyone seems to like him, and I can understand why, as he has such a positive attitude to life.

He told me he believes in talking about good news and if you can’t, then find the good in the news.

I also admire De Waal because of the way he runs his company and the way he treats his staff members. The first thing he said to me when I entered the office was that before you start work, you drink coffee that instantly put a smile on my face. He wants his workers to take off when they need to and understands that they also have personal lives. This does not mean that you can do as you please though, as you still have a set amount of tasks to be done by the end of the week according to the deadlines that have been set.

I was saddened when my final day at The Village NEWS drew near as it had been a positive time. I got to see everything: Tania (bookkeeper) crunching numbers and advising her clients, Nickey (graphic designer) designing advertisements and the layout for the newspaper, and I also met René and Kathy from the marketing team. I don’t think I have ever heard someone deal with clients over the phone as well as Kathy. I went with Johan and Gerty from the delivery team to drop off newspapers throughout town, and met Murray who picks up all the newspapers from the printers every week. (When he is not behind the wheel of The Village NEWS delivery truck, Murray writes the humorous column for the paper, Wit’s End.) I even had the opportunity to join Taylum (photographer) and Hedda (content editor) to go out on a story at the Recycle Swop Shop which was a great experience.

To De Waal and his team, I would just like to say thank

Do these internships work though? Yes, they do. My workload consists of 40% academics and 60% practical (internships, work at school, campaigns etc.) I have already seen how my academic work benefits from the internships and now I can successfully differentiate between productive and non-productive meetings, as well as how to avoid unproductive meetings and instead find different ways of conveying information.

My personal goal is to work as a manager or be part of a marketing team, but the ultimate goal is to own my own company one day, perhaps take over the family business (Wonderland Lifestyle Centre) and franchise it from a national to an international business.

Some people might say I’m dreaming too big but two people that I admire and see as my business mentors might disagree with you. They are both very successful entrepreneurs – my father and Vusi Tembekwayo, who was a millionaire by the age of 25.

Vusi believes one of the reasons why some South African companies fail to grow, might be because we don't dream big. They believe in ‘small business’. People say things like “No, stay small, it's easier”. This, in my opinion, is just a lack of vision, motivation and determination.

Many of our readers have been wondering why they have seen a pair of shoes hanging from the overhead electrical cables in Onrus and Mt Pleasant respectively. Urban Dictionary defines ‘shoes on a wire’ as “the laces of shoes that are tied together and then lobbed up so that they hang from the wires - this supposedly signals a location where drugs can be purchased; it can be found near schools, in townships and tourist locations.”

Archie Klaas, Deputy Mayor of the Overberg District Municipality, says that in South African townships it does indeed signify that drugs are being sold in that area, but this does not necessarily mean that the shoes hanging in Onrus and Mt Pleasant indicate the same thing. The tossing of shoes has come to represent different things all over the world. A few suggestions are that gangs use the shoes to mark their territories, teenagers toss their old shoes over the wires when they matriculate from school and soldiers throw their boots up when they have completed basic military training. In some areas hanging shoes are used to commemorate the death of a loved one and in other areas bullies throw their poor victim’s shoes up and out of reach, but most of the time it is children who seem to do it because they find the act amusing.

There is no one definite answer as to why people toss their shoes over electric cables and it is hard to say exactly when or where this strange tradition originated. Perhaps it is no more than a case of monkey-see-monkey-do. Like many human practices, it has taken on different meanings the more the idea of shoe tossing has spread.

PHOTO: Taylum Meyer

Ball-bearers, Boerewors and Bibles Lawyers, attorneys, advocates and solicitors are a law unto their own. To elevate themselves above those of us less fluent in Latin, their training involves – among other things – being skilled in the art of circumventing the law. Like painters, they can soon turn white to black.

Samuel Johnson once wrote: “I do not come to speak ill of any man behind his back, but I believe the gentleman is an attorney.”

And well he should be dubious.

What good reason could there be for anyone to pursue the concept of earning a living by picking at the scabs of people’s conflict and misfortune?

Hmm… Did you perhaps hear the distant ka-ching of a cash register? Unless you’re a lawyer and take umbrage, you’d have heard it.

Wit’s End Murray Stewart thevillagemuze@gmail.com

A handful can wear the badge of honesty without blushing, but if there were more of them, lawyers wouldn’t be treated with such suspicion, and we wouldn’t approach them with skepticism as we would a proctologist or a back-yard mechanic. We enter their machinery as healthy cows, and exit as boerewors.

Anyway, another vital requisite is mastering the craft of intentionally quoting totally confusing Roman-Dutch Law clauses to numb us into submission. Simple, understandable sentences usually work on regular folks like you and

me, but lawyers will be as pedantic and long-winded as possible, by repeating their viewpoint from every angle imaginable and abusing tautology without blinking.

Careful to dot the eyes and cross the tease, they somehow manage to conjure up new ones to dot and cross, just to muddy the water (Aquas maxi murkus).

A simple concept like – “My client accuses her husband of having an affair with his secretary”– should be perfectly understandable to everyone in the courtroom. But, no such

luck. Our learned colleague will manage to string a paragraph together starting with things like, “Notwithstanding any afore-mentioned perceptions…” and throwing in phrases like “here- on-in including, but not limited to…” and “obligations pertaining to identification specifics of the alleged…” etc. This yawninducing monologue can drone on for hours, and is the reason magistrates and judges are armed with that gavel they bang periodically – to curtail disruptive snoring from the jurors (Snortus interuptis).

Robert Frost wrote, “A jury consists of twelve people chosen to decide who has the better lawyer.” Just ask O J Simpson.

I asked a lawyer I had dealings with recently, if he had any quirky cases he’d come across

for an article I’d started on the ‘lighter side of law’. Perhaps he was afraid the scalpel of satire might slice too close to the legal bone, because I heard nothing more from him. Undaunted though, I dug once again into the The Duck ’n Fiddle’s Explanation of Everything archives and unearthed some unusual legal roots.

Dating way back – before there were formal bibles – it was common practice in Roman times to place one’s right hand on one’s testicles when swearing to tell the truth. I’m not making this up.

The English word ‘testimony’ is related to this custom. Back then – according to the ancient hand-written texts – very few females and eunuchs committed crimes. But if they did, they were required to utilise the services of a bona fide testicle bearer as a proxy

during the swearing-in procedure. These men were known as ball-bearers (Scroti ligitimus).

The Romans were also responsible for the term ‘mudslinging’.

White togas were worn by all officially elected candidates, and ‘candidate’ literally meant ‘white ones’. To show their dissatisfaction, citizens would throw mud at an unpopular candidate until his toga became toga maculosa or ‘defiled with mud’. We can’t do that to politicians or lawmakers anymore, or we’d be shredded and boereworsed pronto.

However, not all legal eagles swoop low, and lest we forget – lawyers were also children once.

But spare a thought each time you throw another stukkie boerewors on the braai – it could be what’s left of a friend who’s been through the machine (Shredus compardri).

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Wednesday 9 May

■ SAARP Hermanus Social Club: The guest speaker at the monthly club meeting of the South African Association of Retired Persons (SAARP) is Frank Woodvine, representing the Hermanus Botanical Society. His presentation is entitled Alien plants and their effect on the environment. For further information contact Ingrid on 028 316 2390 or 082 081 6889. At the Sandbaai Hall, from 09:30 – 11:45.

Friday 11 May ■ Hermanus Hacking Group: All volunteers are welcome to join the hacking group in the clearing of invasive vegetation. Contact Charlyn Vosloo on mcvosloo@mweb.co.za or 082 558 8731. Meet every Friday at the bottom end of Rotary Drive, at 06:45 for 07:00.

■ Bhuki Café: Join the Friends of Hermanus Library for tea, coffee and eats for only R20 and help to raise funds for the library. Every Friday from 09:00 – 11:30, at Hermanus Library.

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

book your spot early by contacting info@stanfordvalley.co.za. At Stanford Valley Guest Farm outside Stanford. Visit www.stanfordvalley.co.za

Saturday 12 May ■ CleanMarine Coastal Cleanup: Join BirdLife Overberg on their monthly cleanup at Onrus beach towards Sandbaai, in collaboration with Milkwood Restaurant and the children from the Recycle Swop Shop. Wear appropriate walking shoes and bring a backpack with something to drink and eat. Confirm your participation by 10 May by contacting Elaine at mwjasser@mweb .co.za or sending an sms to 082 455 8402. Meet at the parking area at Onrus beach at 08:00 (the cleanup should be done by 11:00 at the latest).

■ Hermanus parkrun: Meet for the weekly 5 km walk or run, come rain or shine. The route is dog friendly and children are most welcome.

Set off from the Hermanus Forest on Camphill Road in Hemel-en-Aarde Valley, at 08:00.

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

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

■ History of the South African Wine Industry: U3A Overberg presents a talk on Viticulture and Olive Cultivation by Peter-Alan Finlayson and Barry Anderson of Gabriëlskloof.

In the Catholic Church Hall, at 10:00.

Friday 11 – Sunday 13 May ■ Landscape Painting Retreat / Workshop: Artists of all skill levels are invited to attend this workshop, working in the medium of their choice. There will be live demonstrations of techniques, personal instruction while you paint and critique sessions. Expert advice on studio and plein air painting will be shared, as well as tips and techniques on how to improve your landscape paintings. The cost for the 3-day workshop is R2 000 pp. Accommodation available in beautiful farm cottages at R400 pp sharing (R800 per room). Space is limited, so

WhatsApp 076 708 0818 to book your stall.

At the Botrivier Hotel, every Saturday, from 10:00 – 15:00.

■ Stargazing: With no moon around, catch some starlight with the Southern Cape Astronomy Club by joining them for an evening of stargazing at Pearly Beach. Up for grabs will be galaxies, globular and open clusters as well as a planet or two. For more information, Kos Coronaios can be contacted on 079 148 4934 or via email at elephantcastle@lantic.net.

At Pearly Beach Village Green (Herbarium) from 19:30.

Sunday 13 May ■ Lemm’s Corner Market: This popular Sunday market offers exclusive arts and crafts, and handmade local products. At Fisherman’s Village (between Cattle Baron and Fisherman’s Cottage), from 10:00 – 15:00.

■ Fernkloof Holistic Faire: You are invited to spend a lovely day with family and friends in the botanical gardens. There will be eats and treats, artists, crafters and therapists to meet and talk to. Entrance is free. For more information, contact Lucia on 028 316 5312. At Fernkloof Nature Reserve, from 10:00 – 14:00.

■ History excursion to Greyton: Join the Hermanus History Society for a trip to Greyton led by Felicity Jarvis, who is an authority on the history of Greyton dating back to the Khoi tribes and Dutch occupation. The outing will include tea/coffee (R25) and an optional Langtafel Lunch at Oak & Vigne Café at R110 pp. Max 22 guests, members only unless there are vacancies. For more details and to make your booking, contact robinlee@hermanus.co.za by Monday 7 May. Meet up in Greyton at 09:45 for 10:00.

■ Classic Bridge Club: Join the club for Duplicate Bridge, every Monday. Contact Riekie on 072 230 9179. At Fernkloof Hall, at 13:00.

■ Astrophotography: Join the Hermanus Astronomy Centre for a presentation on Image Processing. For more details, contact deonk@ telkomsa.net. At Deon Krige’s house, at 19:00.

Wednesday 16 May ■ Hermanus Bird Club: Everyone is welcome to attend a talk by John Bowman on the Birds of Thailand. Wine will be available for a small donation. At Fernkloof Hall, with drinks at 18:00 and the talk at 18:30.

Thursday 17 May ■ Robin Auld live: Catch Robin Auld performing live in Hermanus on Mother’s Day. His hits are well known to SA audiences and his latest album Back of Line features slide guitar, harmonica, African blues guitar stylings and soul vocals. The cover charge is R80 and booking is essential; call 028 313 2137. At Soul Café, Main Road (at The Marine circle).

Monday 14 May ■ Market in the Garden: Hunt for treasures at this peaceful market set among the shady trees of a beautiful garden. At St Peter’s Church in Main Road, Hermanus, from 09:00 – 13:00.

■ Botrivier Hotel Market: For handmade crafts and tasty treats, come and browse the new weekly market in the hotel garden. New vendors are welcome; contact Erna at ernastark@outlook.com or 028 315 2582 or

■ BirdLife Overberg monthly talk: The guest speaker is Krista Oswald, who will talk on the Cape Rock-jumper, BirdLife Overberg’s logo bird. Krista studied these shy birds in the Baviaanskloof region and fantastic footage will be used to illustrate the talk. Catering at R 100 per head. Remember to bring your own drinks and glasses. RSVP: Helé at birding@southern artceramics.com or send an sms to 073 456 0393. At Mollergren Park Community Hall, at 18:30 for 19:00.

■ Book launch: Penguin Random House invites you to attend the launch of wildlife conservationist and author Richard Peirce’s latest book, Cuddle Me, Kill Me a searing indepth exposé of South Africa’s captive lion breeding industry. The launch will be cohosted by Panthera Africa Big Cat Sanctuary near Stanford. RSVP: bvandermerwe@penguinrandomhouse.co.za.

At The Book Cottage in Long Street, at 17:30.

Village

EXPLORER EXPLORER The

FOOD • WINE • ARTS

Cape Blend – a truly South African wine

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n the shelf in front of me was a bottle of wine, clearly marked ‘Cape Blend’. Two simple words put together. It must be a blend of grapes grown in the Cape area, I thought, or maybe that wine estate has named their wine Cape Blend.

But to my surprise, right beside it, was another bottle from a different estate, also named Cape Blend. Studying the information on the back label shed no further light as it said nothing about Cape Blend. That’s odd, I thought.

Living in the now and wow moment, the easiest thing was to grab my ever so smart phone and Google it. Which I never should have done.

This happens daily. The poor consumer is bombarded with an avalanche of confusing gibberish. We all know what a Cabernet Sauvignon or a Pinotage is. From the opposite side of the world, we even know what a Bordeaux, Rhône or Port blend is. Gosh, we can name the varietals by name.

Yes, we talk about our blends of choice around the braai, at wine club and book club get-togethers. So why all the confusion about a Cape Blend?

Probably ever since the early 1960s, the debate has been raging about the composition of a truly 'representative' Cape Blend. The consensus seems to have been all along that it should have a distinctive South African personality, plenty of character, balance, appeal over a wide spectrum and good ageing potential. The big debate has not only been around whether Cape Blends should be officially recognised and promoted, but also about the rules determining their composition.

Namely, should there be a mini-mum and a maximum proportion of Pinotage? What’s the big deal then?

Well, many see them as the Cape’s calling card – a signature style that is

PHOTO: Pinotage Association

unique to South Africa. Of course, Pinotage is unique to South Africa, but in many circles this unusual variety is seen to be just a touch too idiosyncratic to act as an ‘ambassador’ wine style. But it does work very well in blends, where its individuality is toned down a bit and it adds personality to ‘international’ style wines.

This is a very complex and touchy subject. Every wine institution, association, committee and winemaker has its own agenda and tree to mark.

The Pinotage Association has their own set of rules to promote and classify their Cape Blend competition. According to them, the wine should contain a minimum of 30% Pinotage and a maximum of 70% in any blend. This could be achieved with grape varietals of Shiraz, Merlot, Cabernet Sauvignon, or any red varietal as long as your blend contains Pinotage. SA Wine Industry Information and Systems (SAWIS) echoes the same format whilst Wine of SA (WOSA) states that there is no

legislation on ‘Cape Blend’. Many winemakers feel that these guidelines are too narrow and stringent, and therefore restrict the free spirit of winemaking and the expression they would like to achieve in their wines.

Most consumers, producers and the media are in agreement that some regulation of Pinotage components in Cape Blends would be helpful, but that too much time is being wasted on particular percentages. Skills could be better utilised by developing Cape Blend as a viable marketing entity. With France’s dominance in Bordeaux blends, and Australia’s Shiraz reputation, Cape Blend is an obvious new category for South Africa.

But there are a few issues with Cape Blends. Firstly, it’s controversial so everybody talks about it. Secondly, there are no rules. Some people say a Cape Blend should be the best blend made in the Cape, with or without Pinotage. But put Cabernet and Shiraz in a Cape Blend and the

Aussies will laugh. In theory, somebody could release a white blend as a Cape Blend because there is no regulation. But the trade and consumers would be more confused.

Bordeaux or Rhône blends are produced from the grape varietals grown in a very strictly controlled appellation but are not ruled by prescribed percentages. This is also the case in Italy, Spain and Portugal.

The Napa Valley in California didn’t promote their popular Zinfandel as a ‘Napa Blend’. No, quietly they have promoted their Cabernet Sauvignon Blends that are produced in a very bold and austere style. The focus thus is on the appellation and maybe that is where we need to pay attention. Rather promote a wine appellation and create a “Hemel-enAarde Blend” or an “Elgin Blend”. In other words, make use of the varietals grown in that specific area. Yip, this adds even more controversy, but let’s face it, it makes more sense.

This is already happening without

anybody standing on a soapbox and announcing it at the town square.

Look at the distinct style of Sauvignon Blanc/Semillon blends produced from grapes grown in the Elim area, or the Chenin Blanc based blends from the Swartland, the Cabernet Sauvignon blends from Stellenbosch… the list goes on. All very unique styles, but also very identifiable. We should rather educate the customer on appellations instead of putting focus on a particular blend with pages and pages of rules.

The customer doesn’t care, as long as the wine tastes good. Simple!

Why must everything always be pigeonholed? Let the winemakers express the terroir, express the varietal and the climate and most importantly, let the winemakers give us the best wine they can produce.

Hopefully soon we’ll all cheers a glass of ‘Baardskeerdersbos Blend’. Won’t that be fun!

- Proudly brought to you by Wine Village

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The Hungry Monk offers a unique style of dining

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n contrast to the topic of my previous column, Rossi’s Italian Restaurant, which is the oldest restaurant in Hermanus to have been operating under the same name from the same premises, some establishments seem fated to change hands – and names – at a rate that diners can hardly keep up with.

A case in point is the eatery next to The Classroom in Hemel-enAarde Village, which started out as Feathers Bistro not many years ago, then became the Viking Kitchen and after that Figg’s, before being sold yet again.

Fortunately, this time around it seems to have landed in rather capable hands – new owners Rodney Woodley and Robert Musielewicz have already cooked their way into the hearts of many a food enthusiast as the owners of The Hungry Monk in Greyton since 2013.

The Hungry Monk Hermanus will follow in its (older) sister restaurant’s illustrious footsteps, offering Anglo-Indian and Polish cuisine with a Thai twist. In addition to the breakfast, lunch and dinner menus, there is also a tapas menu and a separate à la carte vegan menu.

While this might all sound impossibly exotic, I have it on good authority from friends who have more time for eating out than a constantly-chasingdeadlines journalist like myself, that the food is seriously good.

Among them are those who have often made the trip to Greyton to treat themselves to the gourmet delights on offer at The Hungry Monk.

A peak at reviews on tripadvisor gave me a taste of these delights, variously described as “Just wow! The flavours were out of this world! A unique menu that one does not find around every corner. A real gem!” and “A culinary delight!

Some of their meals are finedining grade, with the most amazing flavour combinations… pure imagination, true

Monk’s vegan dishes receive special mention and should appeal to the growing number of ethical eaters who were sorely disappointed when Norah Hudson’s excellent vegan eatery, ELL 269, closed its doors in town. One of them reads: “Tastiest vegan food I've ever eaten. This is one of the best vegan dining experiences you can get. Just go there and ask for the vegan menu…

Fresh. Flavoursome. Unique.

Presented. Expensive. Worth every penny.” Think Chickpea, Mint & Coriander Salad with garlic and rosemary; Aromatic Roast Pumpkin Curry in coconut, pineapple, lychees and kaffir lime leaves; or Pierogi, which is Polish-style ravioli stuffed with wild mushrooms and pickled cabbage. Sounds delish, even to a non-vegan like me.

What’s Cooking RESTAURANT NEWS Hedda Mittner

JP Crozier (front of house), Darren Mill (back of house) and The Hungry Monk owners Rodney Woodley and Robert Musielewicz relaxing on the restaurant’s shady patio.

The Hungry Monk Hermanus is situated in the Hemel-en-Aarde Village, on the corner between The Classroom and Wine Village. genius… Worth the drive to Greyton!”

One does not often come across such rapture and I, for one, am rather intrigued, especially since a trip to Greyton is no longer required to sample this highly praised cuisine.

I think it is safe to say that there has never been anything like this on offer in our neck of the woods, underlining Rodney’s assertion that they wanted to “bring something new to Hermanus”. There certainly is much on the menu that is new to me, such as the Kopytka

(Polish potato dumplings with wild mushrooms, Chardonnay velouté and Parmesan) and Anglo-Indian dishes such as Oxtail Vindaloo and Beef Kofta (also known as Ball Curry).

On both tripadvisor and veganreview.net, The Hungry

The international flavour of The Hungry Monk made much more sense after I’d met Rodney and Robert for a chat.

While Rodney, who hails from Bangalore in southern India and grew up in Canada and the UK, prefers the AngloIndian cuisine of his heritage, partner Robert enjoys the more homely cooking of his homeland, Poland, which he left in order to settle in the UK as a young adult. This is where the couple met, all of 18 years ago, before migrating to South Africa in 2002.

In Cape Town they converted three cottages in De Waterkant to create a boutique hotel, The Village Lodge. Over the next few years this enterprise grew into a unique hospitality concept known as The Village Portfolio, comprising a group of select B&B’s, boutique hotels, lodges, selfcatering apartments, restaurants and bars. When they felt the need to get out of the city and recharge their batteries, they escaped to Greyton.

Charmed by the country lifestyle, they eventually sold their business and made this

Overberg gem their permanent home.

With The Hungry Monk having established itself as a destination restaurant, they started looking towards Hermanus to expand their business interests. Conveniently situated at the start of the R320 that winds through Hemel-en-Aarde between Hermanus and Caledon, Figg’s provided the ideal opportunity and the partners are also looking at opening another restaurant in Caledon.

While they remain based in Greyton, Rodney and Robert have appointed JP Crozier to manage The Hungry Monk Hermanus, while JP’s partner Darren Mill is in charge of the kitchen. Both have extensive experience in the hospitality industry and close ties to Hermanus – JP spent several years here as a child while living with his grandparents, and Darren’s family relocated from Johannesburg to Cape Town when he was 10. He worked at several bars and restaurants in the city before joining EAT Restaurant, also in Hemel-enAarde Village, just around the corner from The Hungry Monk.

He returned to Cape Town in 2016 to start his own business, Morgan’s Kitchen, before being lured back to Hermanus to join The Hungry Monk.

“We enjoy the more relaxed lifestyle of Hermanus,” says Darren, “and JP wanted to be closer to his grandparents. Besides which The Hungry Monk provided a wonderful opportunity for us to work together and bring this exciting new offering to local diners.”

The Hungry Monk Hermanus is open for breakfast, lunch and dinner on Monday and Tuesday, and from Thursday to Saturday; and for breakfast and lunch on Sunday. Closed on Wednesdays and Sunday evenings. For more information or to make a booking, contact 028 316 4081 or hermanus@thehungrymonk.co.za

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Rina and Neels van den Berg are the new owners of The Village Stall.

New faces at The Village Stall Another restaurant in Hemel-en-Aarde Village with new owners is At The Village Stall, where Neels and Rina van den Berg have taken over from Ronel and Eloise Holloway, whose husband and father Frank passed away suddenly last year. The Holloways had taken over this unique eatery from Petri and Estelle Hendriksz just over two years ago when tragedy struck and, as Ronel says, “We have not even had time to grieve properly”.

Ronel wishes to thank Evan Rautenbach of BA Business Brokers in Hermanus for supporting them through this difficult time and securing the sale of the business to the van den Bergs.

The couple, although retired, decided that “sitting around at home” was not for them and, after more than two decades in the banking industry and another 21 years managing an elderly care centre in Pretoria, Neels says they started looking for a new challenge.

“We initially thought we might relocate to Mossel Bay and were looking at businesses for

sale on the internet,” says Neels. When they didn’t find anything suitable in Mossel Bay, Neels decided to give Hermanus a try – and the first business that came up was At The Village Stall. “We immediately decided to come and have a look!” They clearly liked what they saw and concluded the deal.

“We are not going to change anything that is working well, including the menu and the crafts offering," says Rina. What they would like to do though, is install a TV screen for all those important rugby matches coming up during the winter months and to invite guest artists to perform over the weekends. Another idea is to have a spitbraai in the lovely courtyard garden and offer a truly South African experience to visitors on the weekends.

Rugby, braaivleis and sunshine… sounds good to me! The Village NEWS wishes Neels and Rina a happy and successful life in Hermanus.

– Hedda Mittner

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Joburg Ballet dances its way into Overstrand hearts

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he Joburg Ballet company brought a four-day feast of dance to Hermanus from 2 – 5 May in aid of SANTA (South African National Tuberculosis Association) for the second year running.

The event, ‘Beating TB with Ballet’ entailed three performances as well as a Master Class on Wednesday 2 May, where aspiring ballet dancers could join the professionals for a brief dance warm-up class, and an Outreach Programme on the Thursday where children from disadvantaged areas were given an opportunity to learn some ballet moves.

The gala performance on the Friday evening, followed by two performances on the Saturday, were well supported and almost sold out. The diverse programme ensured an exciting performance that thrilled audiences with highlights from The Sleeping Beauty, Don Quixote, and Carmen, along with contem-

porary works by South African choreographers. The entire event was hosted at the Dutch Reformed Church in Onrus.

“Apart from the terrific cause behind this event we want more children to be exposed to ballet and this is where the Outreach Programme comes in – not all children have the means to experience the art and we need to keep ballet alive,” said Cheryl van Niekerk, Chairperson of the Val Whyte Bursary. The event came into fruition last year when Cheryl contacted Iain MacDonald, the artistic director of Joburg Ballet, and invited the company to assist SANTA in raising funds to combat tuberculosis in the Overberg area.

Joburg Ballet was already dancing in Kynsna every year and happily agreed to support this worthy cause. Cheryl, who lives in Hermanus, works closely with the ballet company through the Val Whyte Bursary,

which helps young and upcoming dancers find a foothold into the world of ballet. Joburg Ballet came into existence (originally as the ‘South African Ballet Theatre’) in 2001 under the direction of six ex-dancers from PACT (Performing Arts Council of the Transvaal), which had been disbanded the year before.

Of those six founders, the last remaining active member of Joburg Ballet is Iain MacDonald.

According to statistics, South Africa is the country with the third highest incidence of TB in the world with 80% of the Western Cape’s inhabitants carrying the bacteria. The Overstrand in particular has a very high incidence of MDR (multi-drug resistant) TB. Health budgets are being cut annually and the Overstrand is extremely grateful for the support of SANTA. – Taylum Meyer

Senior soloist Sanmarie Kreuzhuber was a favourite with the younger girls at the Master Class, including Amori Webb (6) from Gordon’s Bay and Karli Strydom (5) from Strand.

Shannon Glover and Ruan Galdino wowed spectators with their grace and poise as they danced as Snow White and her Prince.

Chris Tembo, a manager at Col’Cacchios (left), received an Orchid on behalf of restaurant owners Angela and Ben Clifford from Robert Johnson, owner of Bona Dea Private Estate (second from left) and Ald Nicolette Botha-Guthrie (third from left) as a thank you from the Joburg Ballet.

Col’Cacchios sponsored the group a delicious two course meal on the one night of their stay in Hermanus. Fourth from left are Shannon Glover (principal dancer), Cheryl van Niekerk (ballet convenor), Nicole Ferreira-Dill (principal dancer), Iain MacDonald (artistic director of Joburg Ballet) and Claudi Monja (principal dancer).

PHOTOS: Taylum Meyer, Titanium Photography

Leusson Muniz lifted his partner Sanmarie Kreuzhuber seemingly effortlessly above his head during the matinee performance on Saturday 5 May.

One of Joburg Ballet’s co-founders and artistic director, Iain MacDonald, demonstrated various techniques at the Master Class on Wednesday 2 May.

The Joburg Ballet put a smile on many young faces at the dress rehearsal and outreach programme on Thursday 3 May. With the dancers in their costumes are Chase Bosh (company manager, back row on the left), Iain MacDonald (artistic director, back row fifth from the right) and Cheryl van Niekerk (Chairperson of the Val Whyte Bursary and the Beating TB with Ballet’s convenor, back row on the right).

PHOTO: René Dewar

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A rousing opening weekend for FynArts

hat better way to open ten days of FynArts and dispel the winter blues than an entertaining weekend of rousing, uplifting and heartfelt music – many familiar and well-loved tunes across the generations!

The Best of Baroque will open FynArts on Friday 8 June at 19:00 with The Arrival of the Queen of Sheba by George Frideric Handel. The programme includes equally well-known compositions by Bach (Fifth Brandenburg Concerto), Telemann (Viola Concerto), Pachelbel (Canon in D Major) and Vivaldi (Four Seasons).

Presented by Camerata Tinta Barocca, South Africa’s leading baroque orchestra, this concert is further distinguished by the musicians using exact replicas of 18th century instruments. Erik Dippenaar, the conductor, is also a soloist on harpsichord.

The other soloists are Annien Shaw (baroque violin), Emile de Roubaix (baroque viola), and Bridget RennieSalonen (traverso flute).

The concert on Saturday 9 June at 19:00, will again be presented by Richard Cock. This time he will conduct the FynArts Festival Orchestra and two soloists in Richard Cock and Friends.

Timothy Moloi (baritone) has performed at many big events, including the 2010 FIFA world Cup opening ceremony. He has also performed for former South African President Nelson Mandela, Graça Machel, Prince Willem-Alexander and Princess Máxima of the Netherlands.

Durban-born Lauren Dasappa (soprano) is a dynamic musical artist whose expressive music-making deeply touches her audiences. A lecturer in Classical Voice at Stellenbosch University, she has performed at major international and nationwide events. She was awarded an international recording contract with Universal Studios as an undergraduate. Enjoy a musical journey from Mac the Knife to Pata Pata and from New York, New York to Leonard Cohen’s Hallelujah.

Sunday 10 June will continue with the popular matinee and early evening concerts, presented by Richard Cock in his usual inimitable style and with enlightening comments. A large 35-piece orchestra will be joined by the massed FynArts choir of close on 100 members and two popular soloists. A Feast of Opera and Operetta will be an inspiring not-tobe-missed concert of beautiful and

well-known music, including Verdi’s Slaves Chorus and the Anvil Chorus from Il Trovatore as well as the famous Brindisi from La Traviata.

Cecilia Rangwanasha (soprano), a member of Cape Town Opera, has this year achieved the distinction of winning the 2018 ATKV Muziquanto singing competition, as well as the 6th International UNISA Music Foundation Voice Competition: Classical. She will be joined by Johannes Slabbert, singer, conductor and academic, who is also a member of Cape Town Opera and has won numerous singing competitions. He was the winner of the 2014 ATKV Muziquanto competition and has performed in, among other countries, Germany, the UK, Dubai, Hong Kong and Finland.

South Africa’s leading baroque orchestra, Camerata Tinta Barocca.

“We are privileged to have soloists of this calibre taking part in FynArts,” says Festival Director Mary Faure. So make sure you don’t miss out and make your bookings now.

Tickets for the festival from 8 – 17 June 2018 are available from the Hermanus Tourism Bureau and online at webtickets. Get the full programme at www.hermanusfynarts.co.za

Cecilia Rangwanasha, a soprano of Cape Town Opera.

Johannes Slabbert, singer and conductor and member of Cape Town Opera .

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Love the gums you’re with Hedda Mittner

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r André van Zyl and his wife Karen hosted the official opening of Hermanus’ first oral medicine and periodontics practice last week at their new premises in College Road. The event coincided with the First Fridays Artwalk and besides the guests who had been invited to the opening, a few stray Artwalkers also wandered in, mistaking the practice for an art gallery.

Not that they can be blamed for this – the practice is filled with most attractive paintings and sculptures, turning the notion that any dental practice is a cold, clinical (and rather scary) place completely on its head. Several of the paintings were in fact done by Karen, an accomplished artist in her own right.

But we are talking about teeth here, so back to periodontics. I’m afraid André had to explain to me what exactly that is, and now that I know, I suspect many others are equally ignorant as it seems to me that a periodontist is someone you will only need to consult if you have a serious problem. Derived from the Greek words peri (around) and odon (tooth) it is basically a branch of dentistry that deals with diseases of the structures surrounding and supporting the teeth, including the gums, cementum, periodontal ligaments, and alveolar bone.

According to André (and at this point I was furiously taking notes), the three pillars of orthodontics involve the gums, mouth diseases and implantology. Starting with the first, I was rather alarmed to learn more about Periodontal disease, also known as gum disease, which is caused when bacteria in plaque builds up between the gums and teeth, causing inflammation.

What makes this condition tricky is that the symptoms are very subtle and you may not pick up on them until it is too late. Danger signs include bad breath, bleeding gums and loose teeth, but by that time the inflammation may have gone untreated for too long to save the teeth.

“I had a young patient with strong, healthy teeth and not a single filling, but due to acute gum disease I regrettably had to extract all her teeth,” says André. That story was enough to make me lie awake all night! Even more alarming is the fact that periodontal infection is linked to a variety of systemic diseases and increases your risk of a stroke, cardiovascular disease, diabetes and even cancer.

As far as gum problems go, cosmetic procedures performed by a periodontist could also include correcting a gummy smile or uneven gum line, gum graft surgery to correct gum recession which leads to the root

becoming exposed and the teeth looking too long, and ridge augmentation to improve the natural contour of the gums and jaw when tooth loss has caused indentation where the tooth or teeth used to be.

The second pillar regarding mouth diseases could include fungal infections, tumours, sores or ulcers, while the third pillar is implantology and involves replacing missing teeth with dental implants and treating periimplant diseases, because apparently implants can cause problems just like natural teeth and may even require surgical treatment.

As I said earlier – serious problems, which require many years of serious study. André qualified at Stellenbosch University with an impressive B.Ch.D and M.Ch.D behind his name. He and Karen got married when he was in his fifth year and she supported them by working as a graphic designer. The couple met in high school and have been together for 40 years.

After graduating, they spent a year in the UK where André worked at a periodontics practice in Hertfordshire before returning to South Africa to open his own practice in Welgemoed.

He also spent two days a week at a practice in Somerset West where he performed maxillofacial and oral surgery. Six years later he was approached by Pretoria University to

Dr André van Zyl, a specialist in Oral Medicine and Periodontics has opened a first of its kind practice in Hermanus. He and his wife Karen hosted the official opening last week. head up their Department of Periodontics. “That’s where I discovered that my real passion lies in teaching,” he says.

However, after 11 years in Pretoria, André says they were longing to return to the Cape. A six month sabbatical for cancer research in 2016/2017 brought him to Hermanus, where they bought a house for their retirement. “But after spending time here we found it impossible to return

to the city.” At the end of last year they were back and after searching for months they found the ideal premises.

They opened their doors on 1 April – another first for Hermanus, as this practice is not only the first of its kind in Hermanus, but the only oral medicine and periodontics practice in a nonmetropole area in South Africa.

Find Dr André van Zyl at 9 College Road, Hermanus. Contact 028 312 1510 or andrevanzyl114@gmail.com

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Hermanus Oncology Centre - Radiating a beam of hope

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ince the opening of the Hermanus Medical Village in February last year, this multi-disciplinary, state-of-the-art facility in De Goede Street, Westcliff has elevated Hermanus’ reputation as a centre of excellence when it comes to providing specialised, high-quality and affordable medical care in a safe and welcoming environment.

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“In fact, our research, conducted before we opened, showed that a third of the patients at Somerset West’s oncology centre were from this region.”

Four distinctive medical centres are housed under one roof at the Hermanus Medical Village: a Day Hospital; a sub-acute Spescare facility, a Frail Care facility for the elderly – and the Hermanus Oncology Centre, headed

by Dr John Duminy.

The Oncology Centre plays an important role in the lives of thousands of cancer patients, providing cutting-edge treatment for communities in the Overberg area, from Greater Hermanus to Barrydale, Swellendam, Heidelberg and Bre-

dasdorp. “Previously, these patients had to travel over the mountain to Somerset West or Cape Town for oncology treatment, with the only other facility in the region being even further away in George,” says Dr Duminy.

Dr John Duminy, head of the Hermanus Oncology Centre, next to the new Varian linear accelerator that has been installed in the radiation ‘bunker’.

Those patients have now been able to receive their chemotherapy right here in Hermanus, in the bright and spacious chemo room at the Oncology Centre. The only missing piece needed to complete the picture was the equipment for radiotherapy, which is why Dr Duminy is very excited about the new Varian linear accelerator that has just been installed in the radiation “bunker” of the centre.

“During this last year we clocked many kilometres on my wife’s Combi,” says Dr Duminy with a big smile. That is because he and Martie, a qualified pharmacist who also works at the Oncology Centre, have been driving their patients in need of radiotherapy to Somerset West themselves, and at their own cost. “I always administered the treatment myself, because I wanted my patients to receive the same level of treatment and care that they were used to.”

But now the linear accelerator, with a price tag of more than R20 million, has finally arrived and there will no longer be any need for patients to be transported over the mountain.

“This is the Bugatti of all linear accelerators,” he says with obvious pride. “Cancer research and technology is advancing with rapid speed

and constantly evolving. It is important for me as an oncologist to have the latest, high precision equipment in order to provide the best possible treatment for my patients.”

Dr Duminy adds that his dream is to be able to offer his services to all communities in the Overstrand, including patients from the Hermanus Provincial Hospital. “It should not only be patients who can afford medical care that have access to specialised cancer treatment,” he says. ”It should be made available to everyone – those who drive SUV’s as well as those who travel by bicycle.”

To this end, Dr Duminy has appealed to the Overstrand Municipality to investigate the possibility of applying for a state grant. “Nothing has happened yet, but I am determined to pursue this matter,” he says resolutely.

– Hedda Mittner

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Mothers... it is your time to shine brightly

appy Mother’s Day! Whether you are a new mom, a mom to be or a mom in your 50s, 60s or 70s; you deserve to feel extra special. Moms often dedicate their lives to their families, which is why on Mother’s Day, we all deserve to be spoilt and reminded that we are special and beautiful.

At Refine, we believe every woman needs to love herself and feel good about what she sees in the mirror – and Mother’s Day is the perfect time for a little indulgence and rejuvenation.

We have many different options when it comes to turning back the clock.

Between Dr Michelle and the professional therapists at Refine, we would love to advise you as to which treatment is best for your skin’s specific needs. It is critical that for natural results, treatments are bespoke.

When it comes to Beauty, Skin and Medical Aesthetics, a “one-size-fits-all” approach is NOT recommended.

So, you’re mother of the bride or groom in 2018? Congratulations! As the big day gets closer, for some, the excitement turns to anxiety as the thought of being centre stage, in every photograph, and at the top table, starts to become a reality. As one patient put it, “This is my last big day to shine – my last hoorah.”

(I didn’t want to tell her she still had to look good at her 75th birthday celebration!)

even months to show full results. Give us a call as soon as the date is set and we will work out a plan for you.

• Left it until the last minute?

Don’t worry, we can still shave a few years off. At this stage we focus on temporary rejuvenation to get you camera-ready. Instant results can be achieved with a liquid face lift, where dermal filler is strategically placed to lift and contour cheeks, fill dark circles and define lip borders. Botox can kick in as soon as 3 – 4 days and a Glow Facial just before the big day can give you instant radiance.

Many women find this is the time that they really start thinking about anti-ageing treatments. A wedding is an unforgettable celebration. Not only does the bride want to look her best, but so does the mother of the bride! Today, there are a variety of nonsurgical cosmetic treatments to help the mother of the bride look refreshed and rejuvenated for the big day.

Here are our top tips for being the youngest-looking mother of the bride or groom:

• As a general guide, you need 6+ months to see best results for stimulating good collagen, 12+ weeks for removing brown patches, red veins, milia or skin tags, 6+ weeks for superficial rejuvenation, skin smoothing and brightening.

• It’s never too early to start, particularly if you want to reduce lines. Some therapies need weeks and

So, what can we do to refresh, rejuvenate and turn back the clock for you? Here are some different options depending

on how much revision you would like to achieve, how much time you have to prepare and of course how committed you are to achieving results.

Refresh with a series of chemical peels Choose this when you have 6 – 12 weeks to see a result.

A series of skin peels will refresh your look, hydrating, plumping and smoothing the skin. A minimum of three peels spaced 2 – 4 weeks apart is optimum, ending one or two weeks before the wedding.

What results can you expect?

Brighter and smoother skin, diminished lines and evening out skin colour. Make-up applies easily and beautifully.

Rewind with micro-needling Choose this when you want serious long-lasting wrinkle lessening, skin tightening and scar reduction and have at least 6 months before the wedding.

Clinical Micro-needling has

become the international gold standard in non-surgical skin revision for wrinkles and acne scars over the last few years, with numerous clinical studies and thousands of satisfied clients backing up the science of collagen induction therapy.

This precision process creates new collagen fibres which build over time to give positive and visible changes from deep in the skin’s layers. Skin will be tightened, smoother, and wrinkles and scars will be reduced. Results are long term and progressive the more treatments you have. A course of 3 – 6 is needed depending on the amount of skin tightening and wrinkle revision needed.

Plump out lines with liquid facelift Dermal fillers remain an excellent “go-to” treatment for instant results. Cheeks, temples and chins can be recontoured and lifted to replace lost volume. Lip definition and plumping create that special camera smile. One does not have to

change size or shape of lips to give a lip border definition and glow.

A simple quick procedure which lasts 9 months (for lips) to 1.5 years (for cheeks).

Botox can be the cherry on top, softening fine lines and preventing lines from forming.

Botox starts working within 3 – 4 days and lasts up to 6 months. All these “quick-fix” aesthetic procedures can be done on the same day with minimal to no down time.

To create memorable experiences and be sure of optimal results for the wedding day, it is imperative that you work with qualified skin care specialists.

It is equally crucial that you give enough time to allow for healing to ensure you look your very best. Early consultation with an expert at Refine will greatly assist you in your planning.

Lindi Prinsloo and Dr Michelle Emett Refine Clinic Hermanus

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A home for the homeless finally gets underway

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onstruction of the new Hermanus Night Shelter commenced on Monday, 9 April, just a few days after the ground-breaking ceremony where the new patron of the Hermanus Night Shelter Association (HNSA), Penny Streeter, and Mayor Dudley Coetzee turned the first sod. This event marked a milestone in the tireless efforts of the HNSA over many years to create a safe haven for the homeless people of Hermanus.

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were 1.7m deep and the ready-mix concrete pour exceeded estimates.

The 2 023m² property, situated in Malva Street in Mount Pleasant, between Hermanus Child Welfare and Just Care Aftercare Centre, was purchased from the Municipality by the Hermanus Night Shelter Association (HNSA) last year. Construction of the facility will proceed in phases as funding becomes available.

The site was cleared and pegged out and some of the local construction workers were hired to start with the digging of trenches for the laying of foundations. In order to secure the site, priority was given to the erection of the perimeter walls since this would minimise the risk of unauthorised personnel entering the building site.

Due to the sandy nature of the soil the trenches at some points

However, the HNSA chair, Ray Hartmann says they have made significant progress. The guardhouse that is now under construction will serve as a site office and storage area for consumables and tools. Lastly the trenches for the shelter itself have been dug and are ready to receive the pour for the foundations.

Construction of the Hermanus Night Shelter in Mount Pleasant commenced last month.

Designed by Les Abbot and Hannes Coetzee, the concept is based on the Stellenbosch Night Shelter and will provide accommodation for up to 35 homeless people, with separate wings for men and women. Strict rules and criteria will apply and arrivals will be tested for drugs and alcohol

before being admitted from 17:00. After spending the night, everyone will have to leave the premises at 08:00. The shelter will then be closed to shelterresidents during the rest of the day and available for other community purposes.

The HNSA is a Public Benefit Organisation [PBO 930-045608] approved for donations under Section 18A of the Income Tax Act. They are still in dire need of donations to fund this project and turn the dream into a reality.

Anyone who would like to support this very worthy cause can contact Ray Hartmann on 083 731 0678 or nightshelter hermanus@gmail.com. For more information, go to their Facebook page or visit www.hermanusshelter.co.za

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Network with Hermanus Business Chamber Join the Hermanus Business Chamber for a cocktail sundowner networking event at Benguela Cove on Wednesday 16th May 2018 from 18:00 – 20:00. The session will include a presentation by Cape Whale Coast Tourism Manager Frieda Lloyd and renowned motoring journalist John Floyd who will take you on a journey of discovery to our local tourism hotspots. You may even win an outing with them on one of their travels for their new column in The NEWS entitled Floyd & Lloyd. Frieda will also give feedback on our area’s participation in the World Travel Market and Tourism Indaba. New members will also have the opportunity to introduce themselves and their business. If you want to sponsor a prize the lucky draws you are more than welcome to bring it along. Don’t miss this wonderful opportunity to relax and network and enjoy good wine, good food and good company. You deserve it. To book: Phone or WhatsApp Alta at 0735383685, email ceo@hermanuschamber.co.za, or phone 028-3151619. Cost: R120 for members, R150 non-members. Please pay by EFT before the time to avoid a bottleneck at the registration table. Bank details: Hermanus Business Chamber, Standard Bank Hermanus, branch code: 050312, Account no: 082257833. Ref: your name/ company name.

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Just Care Aftercare turns three

oyful celebrations took place at Just Care Aftercare in Mount Pleasant last week to mark their third birthday. Several benefactors and supporters, including Just Care’s patron, Ald Nicolette Botha-Guthrie, attended the event at Just Care’s premises in Malva Street and were treated to a concert by groups of children who showed off their musical and dance talent.

It is heart-warming to see how the approximately 130 primary school children who find a refuge at Just Care are flourishing under the watchful eye of founder and trustee Jacquie Rathfelder, with the support of her staff and several volunteers.

The children are fetched from their schools and brought to the new double-storey Just Care building after school, where they receive a nutritious lunch and take part in structured activities during the afternoon. These include doing their homework under supervision, taking part in sports with volunteer coach Thomas Lebitsa from Abagold, and reading, art and knitting classes offered by volunteers.

Before construction of the centre was completed at the end of last year, Just Care Aftercare, founded in May 2015, had been operating from Mount

After lunch the Just Care children do their homework every afternoon under the supervision of their carers in the colourful classrooms before being allowed to play or take part in sports and other structured activities.

Pleasant Primary School. They were in dire need of their own premises and were overjoyed to receive a generous donation of just under R500 000 from Lighthouse 2 Lighthouse as the 2017 Ladies Walk’s charity of choice. The new centre has a reception area, canteen, kitchen, bathrooms, library, classrooms and a small garden where the children can play. They employ seven staff members and several volunteers.

The need is so great, however, that the premises are already inadequate in accommodating all the children in need of care. Jacquie says it pains her to show parents away, but

the centre is already stretched to the limit and many had to go on the waiting list.

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

“Children require a nurturing touch in order to grow and prosper. Our team of staff and volunteers provide this care

on a daily basis,” says Jacquie.

“It is a huge undertaking and we often feel overwhelmed, but to see these children bloom makes it all worthwhile.”

To find out how you can assist this project by making a donation, taking part in their Buy a Brick Campaign or by sponsoring an underprivileged child for just R150 pm, visit www.justcare.co.za/donations They are also in dire need of clothes, especially shoes and socks, toys, books, sport equipment, and chairs for the dining room and classrooms.

– Hedda Mittner

The trustees wish to thank the dedicated staff of Just Care Aftercare for their dedication and hard work. At the back is sports coach Thomas Lebitsa, in the second row from the back are Freda Johannes (Gr 4 carer) and Ethel Visser (Gr 2 carer), in the third row from the back Dulsey Spandiel (Gr 3 & 5 carer) and Margo Lukas (Gr 6 & 7 carer), in the fourth row from the back Elenor May (Gr R carer), Matoka Matee (manager), Verna Spandiel (kitchen) and founder trustee Jacquie Rathfelder, with trustee Kathleen Sanders sitting in front.

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Action filled sports weekend The Hermanus High and Primary schools had an action-packed Saturday on 5 May with both schools attending sports days in Worcester and Stellenbosch respectively.

The high school teams met their match against HTS Drostdy in Worcester, but their U14 netball teams walked away with a win in all their games. The girls’ hockey teams also played exceedingly well and were able to win or draw their matches. The boys’ rugby and hockey as well as the older girls’ netball teams were unfortunately not as lucky but are looking forward to playing against Parel Vallei on home turf next Saturday 12 May. The match of the day was the girls’ U19 first team hockey that had a very challenging game, but still managed to beat the HTS Drostdy 2-1.

Kyle Philander from the Hermanus High U16A rugby team is one of the players who scored a try on Saturday. Unfortunately, due to the difficulty of the game, the boys lost 38-29 to HTS Drostdy.

Hermanus Primary School had their Rugby and Netball Winter Sportsday in Stellenbosch on Saturday 5 May. All the games were tough but the teams played very well against their opponents. The U13A netball team did exceptionally well and won 17-9 against Noord-Eind Primary School from Paarl. From left are Hilga Nutt, Nazley Erasmus, Marli Snyman, Luzann Geldenhuys (coach), Isabella Mulder, Mieke Wium, Lisa Ntsethe, Thembi Nyirenda and Suzaan van Oordt.

U14A hockey player, Jarred Bonorchis, from Hermanus High School attempts to take back the ball from two HTS Drotsdy players in the sportsday in Worcester on Saturday 5 May.

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Junior Club Championships 2018 - Sam’s record score

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reetings once more from a beautiful Hermanus. The weather has been mixed, we have had some lovely rain and as normal this time of year, between the storms some fantastic days!

Scores at a glance

The Putting Pirate

SATURDAY ALTOGETHER 28 APRIL Fourball Betterball medal 167 players East Course winners: Andrew Philip and Gerrie du Plooy nett 59 South Course winners: Richard Jones and Neil Firth nett 60 North Course winners: Nicki and Jaco Abel nett 62 Ball pool paid to 64 and there were only 2 two clubs recorded.

Both belonged to Tyron Davidowitz who of course got the best gross which was a terrific 66.

The attendance draw was won by Paul Vorster and was sponsored

by Red Chair, fellow member Deon Muller.

Julian Shaw

The holiday weekend did bring a surge in the number of golfers again coming to our club, nice to see.

Junior Club Championships Last weekend we had our 2018 Hermanus Junior Club Championships and it was super to see the youngsters teeing it up, taking it seriously and trying their best! A special mention must go to Edelweiss du Plessis who again ran the tournament efficiently from start to finish.

Sam Simpson was our champion on 7 under par 136.

Yes, I said seven under par, a record by far! Sam is no ordinary junior though, he has his sights firmly set on the pro tour and winning majors. He finished second in our Club Championships to Tyron Davidowitz and won the Bellville Club Championships.

This is a golfer to watch!

We had a lovely group of juniors including one girl, Nicola Streicher who won the best gross from the red tees, well done! I know this sounds corny but I guess the winner of today was definitely golf.

WEDNESDAY MEN’S 02 MAY Betterball medal 88 players Winners: Rob George and Peter Cawdry nett 60 Runners-up: Lance Nel and Rheinhard Buhr nett 61 C/I Two x 2 clubs THURSDAY LADIES 03 MAY Betterball Stableford 27 players Winners: Celia Bromley and Heinke Douglas 49 points Runners-up: Cheryl Richardson and Marlene Erasmus 45 points

Young players who took part in the 2018 Hermanus Junior Club Championships, from left: Nicola Streicher, Tyron Davidowitz, Gordon Shaw, Sam Simpson, Jack Marx, Bjorn Wellmann, Tim Simpson and Daniel Davids.

Winners of the Rotary Shield Rob George (left) and Peter Cawdry (right).

The Rotary Shield Wednesday was the turn of the guys, and this last week we played a better ball medal.

What made it special was that it was a trophy day.

Part and parcel of why I love Hermanus Golf Club so much is the history – the Rotary Shield was presented by the Rotary Club and was first played for in 1949. Our victors were old campaigners in the form of Peter Cawdry and Rob George – well played indeed.

Drainage and new tees This month marks the start of the winter cycle and, as usual, certain on-course projects take place. This month we start work on the first and eighth fairways, improving the drainage, we are making a new tee on the 15th which is very exciting and we are attending to some of the ladies tees that are too small and in poor condition.

So good luck to Golf Data and course superintendent Malcolm Bromley.

Cricket Business League finals concluded The Build it Business League finals were decided over the weekend of 5 – 6 May. Eighteen teams entered this popular competition in September last year. Matches, decided over 8 overs, were played during the week in the late afternoons, culminating with the weekend finals. Included, among the finalists, in the various categories were: Chad Kleinsmith (right) from the Goodluck Rebels sends off a scathing fast ball to Damian Grib (batsman from Function Hire) while Pierre Kriel (left) from Function Hire looks on to see if a quick run can be taken.

• Build it vs Sandveld Builders (Plate final under 35). Build it were the winners on forfeit.

• Hermanus High vs Hermanus Kings (Bowl Final). Hermanus High won by 6 runs.

• Klipdrifters vs Premier Shutters (Plate Final over 35). Klipdrifters were the winners by 3 wickets.

• Function Hire vs Goodluck Rebels (Main Final). The Goodlukc Rebels won by 4 wickets.

• Hermanus Towing vs Roaring 40s (Over 35 Cup Final). The Roaring 40s won by 3 runs.

Another successful Business League has concluded with teams anxious to do battle again at the commencement of the next cricket season.

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Radio flyers take to the skies in Hermanus

he Walker Bay Radio Flyers hosted similar clubs from the Western Cape over the weekend of 29 – 30 April.

Participants from our local flyers’ club and those from further afield displayed their skills as they guided these radio-controlled aeroplanes into the skies in the vicinity of Fisherhaven and Karwyderskraal.

This get-together of radio flyers is an annual event, held around the end of April, with no winners, but rather, these enthusiasts fly planes of all shapes and sizes, exchanging knowledge and ideas appertaining to their craft.

These models are, in the main, driven by two-stroke piston engines with the more elite models propelled by turbine jet engines. One of the turbine jet models, a mirage jet, was timed at close to 300 km per hour. The costs of these turbo jet models, depending on design, engine capacity etc. can reach in excess of R200 000.

Offside Tony O’Hagan

The majority of the radiocontrolled planes are flown as close as possible, to what we as laymen recognise as normal flying or scale flying.

However, there were those on show performing aerobatics involving spectacular twists, turns and loops that had spectators in awe of the skills on display.

Also on show were a model Pilates PC 6 and a Pilot Trainer aircraft, each controlled by two radio flyers, dropping a parachutist from heights of around 400 meters. The model parachutists are approximately 40cm in height, weighing one and a half kilograms, with one radio flyer controlling the plane and another the chute.

One of the club members, Charles Stevens had a number

of different model aircraft on show. He will be remembered for setting a world record last year for a foam plane (think paper dart when we were young). The plane was 4 meters long and flew at around 80 km per hour for five minutes 30 seconds.

The Walker Bay Radio Flyers has a club membership of 90 flyers with around 30 active members who use the 2km area around Fisherhaven to ply their passion. So enthusiastic are these radio flyers that a visit to their garages or back rooms will probably reveal up to 20 aircraft of different shapes, sizes and models.

For a worthwhile experience, take a trip to the club over a weekend and watch the phenomenal skills on display.

The Walker Bay Radio Flyers is an annual event with no winners, but rather, these enthusiasts fly planes of all shapes and sizes, exchanging knowledge and ideas appertaining to their craft.