The Bag That Builds
Executive Mayor Announces Her Retirement
which are recyclable. A pilot project currently underway
conventional wisdom about plastic recycling on its head.
Stellenbosch Executive Mayor Alderwoman Gesie van Deventer announced her retirement during an emotional town council meeting on Wednesday, 30 October 2024. Her eight-year tenure was the longest in Stellenbosch’s democratic history.
Mayor Van Deventer is credited with bringing stability to both the council and the administration. Her focus on fiscal discipline and rigorous financial oversight earned Stellenbosch eight consecutive clean audits from the auditor general, securing a stable financial foundation and setting a high standard for transparency and accountability.
At the heart of the pilot project is a technology developed by the Center for Regenerative Design & Collaboration (CRDC). The technology allows plastic to be converted into an eco-additive – RESIN8 –that is added to concrete in the manufacturing of structural and other concrete products.
Replacing up to 20% of natural aggregates with RESIN8 in concrete product manufacture has several advantages: It improves the performance characteristics of concrete products, reduces the amount of quarried material used in the concrete and removes plastic waste from the environment. Best of all, all seven types of plastic can be converted into RESIN8 and it doesn’t have to be clean to be used.
In a statement the municipality said that “Through her visionary leadership, Mayor van Deventer elevated the Municipality to unprecedented levels, making Stellenbosch one of the most desired towns in South Africa to live in, start a business, or work. Under her guidance, Stellenbosch and its surrounding towns have seen exceptional growth, with transformative development, infrastructure upgrades, and a strong focus on basic services. Year after year, over 80% of the Municipality’s growing budget has been dedicated to service delivery and infrastructure improvements, reflecting her commitment to uplift residents and build a sustainable future.”
take part in the pilot programme.
alike, and we extend our heartfelt gratitude for her invaluable contributions. We wish her a welldeserved, peaceful retirement and hope she enjoys the precious time with family and friends in the years to come.”
Home Affairs Minister and DA Stellenbosch
Constituency leader, Dr Leon Schreiber, also paid tribute to his fellow Namaqualand native, saying it has been a pleasure working with her since 2019.
The pilot programme will run for three months from 1 January 2023 as part of a larger cleaning and recycling effort that is coordinated by members of the Franschhoek Heritage and Ratepayers Association (FHRPA). Current initiatives include the privatelyfunded clean-up crew that cleans areas that are outside municipal jurisdiction or that need extra cleaning, the installation (and servicing) of refuse bins where they are lacking and monthly community clean-ups.
Referring to a small sculpture of a dung beetle she once gave him, he said that he’ll never forget her advice for getting through difficult times – “Just keep rolling your (dung) ball.” He also praised her honest and reliable service delivery for all communities.
CRDC SA has a processing plant in Cape Town from where the local leg of a global programme titled ‘The Bag That Builds’ is being rolled out. The programme is named after the distinctive green bags that are used to collect plastics for recycling. Individuals and companies are rewarded per bag of plastic they collect, making it a simple way for anyone to earn a small income while improving the environment. A collection drive in the Langrug community has already led to the coining of the phrase ‘pick up your money’ to inspire residents to
Municipal Manager, Geraldine Mettler, added:
“Mayor van Deventer’s legacy of enhanced service delivery and community impact will leave an enduring mark on the municipality. Her presence will be deeply missed by colleagues and residents
Irmela Alberts, co-chair of the FHRPA says “We’re excited by both the environmental and economic opportunities this pilot programme presents for the valley. Our challenge now is to find ways to make it sustainable, so that the pilot programme can become a permanent one. We will keep the Franschhoek Valley cleaner, send significantly less rubbish to the landfill and through the involvement of the local schools contribute to creating a mindset where people litter less”
Western Cape DA Leader and Provincial Infrastructure Minister, Tertius Simmers, said that the DA “bids farewell to a true pillar of the party.”
The process to appoint a new mayor started the day after the mayor’s retirement announcement with the DA circulating a notice to its members setting out the application process.
For more information or if you have any form of plastic that you want to get rid of feel free to contact Jocelyn at 073 587 6132.
At the time of writing there has been news regarding Mayor Van Deventer’s successor.
Text: Editorial Desk | Image: Supplied
Text: Editorial Desk | Image: Stellenbosch Municipality
On Thursday, 8 December 2022, the first 830 bags of plastic waste collected in the valley were sent to a cuttingedge plant in Cape Town to be turned into an innovative eco-aggregate
A Natural Wander
Tour guide and former travel writer, Matt Sterne, launched his new venture – Natural Wanders – in October 2024. The Tatler chatted with him during one of his first wanders in Franschhoek.
In developing his Franschhoek Wine Walk, Matt spent many hours researching local history and meeting some of the individuals that turned Franschhoek from a sleepy hollow into a tourist mecca. After much exploration, he gained permission to lead tours over privately owned land to provide his clients with a perspective of Franschhoek that few get to experience. The 7km walk starts at the Dutch Reformed Church and then continues through part of the village before passing through Cabrière farm – one of the original Huguenot farms – on the way to Mont Rochelle Estate. Here walkers take a break with Mimosas and croissants while taking in the views of the village and building up their reserves for the crossing of Dassenberg.
Continuing through vineyards, orchards, plantations and fynbos walkers wind their way to La Roche Estate for a wine tasting at the Sanctuary – a templelike structure on an island in a farm dam. Along the way, there’s a break for bubbly and berries and to enjoy a seldom-seen perspective of the Franschhoek Mountains. From La Roche, the walk leads through more vineyards and Protea fields to the final destination at GlenWood Estate where a wine tasting is followed by a sushi lunch under the oaks. After lunch, a shuttle takes walkers back to the starting point. Matt is a natural wanderer by nature. Instead of taking the usual gap year, he turned it into a gap decade while working his way around the world. Along the way, he worked in an ice cream factory in Norway, as a door-to-door lightbulb exchanger in Melbourne and volunteered at a turtle sanctuary in Nicaragua. These and other adventures provided the material for his book – ‘Sterne Journeys: 12 Years on the Trail’.
After returning to Cape Town, he worked as a travel journalist for 10 years. Two years of research and many miles of wandering later he launched Natural Wanders with a portfolio of three first-rate walking tours – all built around stories of the places
they pass through. The Constantia Wine Walk was inspired by the incredible story of how Constantia wines delighted Europe in the 18th century and meanders through the vines to Groot Constantia, Klein Constantia and Buitenverwachting estates. The Mountain-to-Sea Adventure starts on Signal Hill and works its way down the bio-diverse mountain slope to the shoreline before ending off with an e-scooter ride on the Sea Point Promenade. It’s all interspersed with stories of the Cape’s rich history and legends. The third, of course, is the Franschhoek Wine Walk.
What is next for Matt? Well, for the moment, he’s content to build his wandering business. There’s little doubt however that his restless feet will have him adding further wanders to the portfolio in the not-too-distant future. In the interim, we’ll tip our hats to him while he shares our stories with visitors and hope to join him on another of his wanders in the near future.
Text: Editorial Desk | Image: Supplied
Flower Thieves Strike
South Africa and the Western Cape, in particular, are richly blessed with plant and animal life. Much of it is endemic – i.e. doesn’t occur anywhere else – which makes it so much more precious and explains why the mountains around the valley are protected natural areas. It is thus little wonder that local nature lovers have been enraged by the theft of wildflowers at a popular local recreation spot.
Many locals and visitors frequent the area around the Berg River Dam to take part in a variety of outdoor activities. Some go hiking or mountain biking, some take their dogs for walks. Others swim in or paddle on the water. Yet others just go to enjoy the quiet of nature after a busy day or to get away from the hustle and bustle of the village. At this time of year – spring and early summer – the fynbos-covered mountain slopes are at their finest. One of the many flower species currently at its peak is our national flower, Protea cynaroides, the King or Giant Protea. A number of these impressive flowering shrubs grow in easy reach of the public near the water’s edge where they are often visited by the equally iconic Cape Sugar Bird that feeds on their nectar.
Nature lovers were shocked when they realised that some of the magnificent Protea flowers – up to 30cm in diameter – had been picked. As a message to the Tatler stated: “My anger is directed at the idiots that feel that it is their right to just break the stems and take the beautiful flowers home … where they throw them into a plastic vase!” The sender rightly points
Protea cynaroides in full bloom
out that it is a serious offence in terms of the National Environmental Management Biodiversity Act to pick/ remove biological material from a protected area. Nature is best appreciated in nature. When visiting our great outdoors let’s all apply the adage of taking only photos and leaving only footprints.
Text: Editorial Desk | Image: Supplied
Agri-Worker of the Year
On Saturday, 2 November 2024, Lindie-Alet van Staden from L’Ormarins Wine Estate, was named the Western Cape Prestige Agri-Worker of the Year 2024.
Western Cape Minister of Agriculture, Economic Development and Tourism, Dr Ivan Meyer, congratulated Ms van Staden as a worthy winner, “I look forward to her inauguration as a Western Cape Prestige Agri-Workers Forum member. Given her leadership abilities and skill set, she will make a valuable contribution to raising the concerns of agri-workers in the province.” (The Forum advises the Western Cape Ministry of Agriculture on matters that impact the lives of agri-workers.)
The competition, which recognises the crucial role agri-workers play in growing the economy and ensuring food security, has seen a significant increase in participation, from 36 entries in 2002 to an impressive 1233 in 2024.
Participants from diverse backgrounds and 15 regions across the Western Cape competed in 11 categories, showcasing the competition’s inclusivity.
This year’s category winners were: General Worker - Racheline Wilschut Langeberg, Driver –Ernest Vilander, Irrigation Specialist – Johannes Engelbrecht, Animal Production – Edward Saaiman, Technical Operator – Magdelena Smit, Social Development – Sophia de Bruin, AgriProcessing – Christopher Dreyer, Administrative Personnel – Gertruida Lourens, Foreman / -woman – Lungelo Ntamone, Junior Management – Rozé Tailor, Middle Management – Annita Maqashalala and Best Potential – Wilfred Fortuin.
On accepting her award as the overall winner, Ms van Staden, who works as a Garden and Olive Orchard Manager at L’Ormarins Estate in Franschhoek, expressed her gratitude and commitment to her job. “Every day, I am motivated by my incredible team and the opportunity to
make a difference in my colleagues’ lives. Winning this award reaffirms my commitment to pursuing excellence and helping to drive agriculture’s future in our community. Together, we are achieving our goals and building a sustainable future.”
Dr Mogale Sebopetsa, Head of the Western Cape Department of Agriculture, stated, “The Western Cape Prestige Agri-Worker Awards is not only about individual recognition, it is also aimed at enhancing the image and socio-economic conditions of agri-workers and their families. This competition offers agri-workers new skills, knowledge, and opportunities for career growth, broadening their understanding of the agricultural sector and inspiring them to reach new heights.”
“In the Western Cape, our agri-workers are not invisible,” said Minister Meyer, adding, “The Western Cape is the only province that bestows this recognition on its agricultural workforce.”
Premier Alan Winde attended the ceremony. He praised Ms van Staden and all the Western Cape’s agri-workers, “Your contribution and dedication to our economy are invaluable, and we are deeply grateful for all you do in assuring and enhancing our province’s food security while also working very hard to boost our economic growth.”
“Agri-workers play a crucial role in our Growth For Jobs Strategy (G4J), which aims to build a R1 trillion economy in the Western Cape by 2035. Their expertise and unwavering commitment to producing enough food to meet our food security needs are instrumental in achieving this goal,” concluded Minister Meyer.
Text: Editorial Desk | Image: DoA
Pretty Planters
Huguenot St received a welcome facelift just in time for last month’s Open Gardens Festival when Stellenbosch Municipality installed several large flower planters at a number of strategic places.
Ruth McCourt, CEO of Franschhoek Wine Valley, expressed her gratitude to Stellenbosch Municipality and in particular to Albert van der Merwe and Hannetjie du Plessis for making it possible. She also thanked Tracey Kirsten of TK Retail for replanting all the beds and pots at their properties in time for the festival and the peak tourist season.
It is hoped that nearby businesses will take an interest and assist the municipality in watering and maintaining the planters near their premises.
Text: Editorial Desk | Image: Supplied
Wine tasting at The Sanctuary.
Agri-worker of the Year winner Lindie-Alet van Staden (third from the right) with Dr Harry Malila, Dr Mogale Sebopetsa, Minister Ivan Meyer, Pieter van Zyl and Premier Alan Winde.
New flower planters along Huguenot St.
When did horses start playing a major role in your life?
My Father farmed in the Paarl district and while he was judging a sheep competition at an agricultural show, I received a Shetland pony, called Lady. This pony was the beginning of my love affair with these wonderful creatures. How did you settle in Franschhoek?
I studied horticulture and landscaping in Cape Town, then packed my bags and travelled abroad to London with friends. After two years of managing a floral shop, South Africa beckoned. I returned to start Vermeulen’s Landscaping in Paarl. In 1990 Chris Hellinger bought a farm in Franschhoek and my services were required for this vast project. A year later we were married. We had a son and a daughter. At the time I saw horse blankets and tack lying around, which was just the opportunity to bring my two horses onto the farm at Chamonix. A cellar was built and an award-winning restaurant was created, which further enhanced this beautiful farm.
What challenges have you faced in the equestrian field and sport?
I received a two-year-old gelding as a gift, as the owner did not think he was good enough to compete. Later on, as a four year old, he was awarded two first prizes at the SA Championships. This special horse again became South African Champion in two divisions as a thirteen-year-old. Here a challenge was turned into a victory!
Another horse, General French was described as an undisciplined and a difficult horse. This horse chose me and I chose him. We are still working on our challenges. Watch this space! How have horses enriched your life?
Showing horses at the annual agricultural shows like Robertson, Moorreesburg. Tulbagh and Villierdorp is very rewarding and challenging. I also compete in the Western Pleasure Division, which entails expression of Western disciplines in complete attire for the rider and horse. We become a fraternity in the horse world. At my guest farm Courchevel (meaning ”Heart of the Horse”) we offer outrides for guests. We also have a Karoo Saddle-Up experience at our Karoo farm where guests do trail rides and ranching. Tell us about the achievements you and your teams have achieved recently.
Over the years our stables have shown many South African Champions. This year I was appointed manager of the SA Junior Protea Equestrian team, consisting of eight riders in two divisions, three- and five gaited. We were invited to take part in the championships in New Orleans, to compete against the USA. We won a gold medal in the five-gaited division and won the silver in the three-gaited division. This was a wonderful show of collaboration and camaraderie. The team proved their commitment, tenacity and overall skills.
What is your vision for the future?
I would like to continue training and guiding young people to enjoy the sport and love of horses. The legacy that I would want to leave is that I have encouraged folk to take the time, to learn discipline and to encourage them to strive for greater heights in the enjoyment of this sport. Horses teach us a great deal about ourselves and are a hard lesson in humility. I would like to quote Churchill who said: “There is something about the outside of a horse that is good for the inside of a man.”
Sonja Hellinger (bottom left) with the SA Junior Protea Equestrian Team
A delicate shade of pink, typical of a Mediterranean style rosé. Well-defined melon, grapefruit and nectarine on the nose with an exceptional velvety palate for a dry wine. Elegant with a mineral complexity and a fresh aftertaste of ripe nectarine.
2024
The ultimate partner to summery salads, charcuterie and seafood. Cellar door price: R110 T 021 876 8000 | E info@la-motte.co.za
La Motte Artisanal Bakery’s Chicken Crunch Salad with Tahini Dressing & Toasted Almonds
Salad ingredients
2 baby cabbages, thinly sliced; 6 radishes, thinly sliced; 150g baby beans, blanched; 2 corn on the cob, slightly charred and sliced off the cob; 50g toasted flaked almonds; 30ml chopped chives; 45ml olive oil; 30ml lemon juice
Chicken
4 chicken fillets, marinated in 30 ml olive oil, barbeque spice and 30 ml lemon juice
Dressing ingredients
45ml tahini diluted with 60ml water; 150ml Greek yoghurt; 60ml olive oil; 45ml lemon juice; Zest of 1 lemon; 5ml honey; 1 garlic clove, crushed; Salt and black pepper; chopped parsley
Method
Toss together the salad ingredients and dress with the olive oil and fresh lemon juice. Combine all the dressing ingredients and mix well to combine. Season with salt and black pepper to taste. Chargrill the chicken fillets on both sides for ±3 minutes on each side or until cooked. Season with salt and pepper and slice the chicken into strips. Spoon the dressing onto a large serving plate – then top with the salad and lastly top with the chicken strips. Serve with lemon wedges on the side and some more toasted almonds T 021 876 8825 | E bakery@la-motte.co.za ANSWER THIS EASY QUESTION! Whoisthemanagerofthe SAJuniorEquestrianteam?
Booking site admin (listings, updates, bookings) | Guest liaison from booking stage to check-out | Cleaning & laundry service | Check-in & check-out of guests | Utilities contact | Garden & pool maintenance | Maintenance arrangements & supervision
FROM THE FRANSCHHOEK
WINE VALLEY DESK
As the festive season draws near and summer casts its golden glow across the valley, we are thrilled to welcome visitors from near and far to the Franschhoek Wine Valley.This is a time for fully laden tables, sparkling celebrations, and all the reasons to raise a glass - from the festive cheer of December to the promise of new adventures as we welcome in 2025.
December kicked off with a highlight on everyone’s calendar - the much-anticipated Capitec Franschhoek Cap Classique & Champagne Festival, set against the iconic backdrop of the Huguenot Monument, featuring over 20 local Cap Classique producers.
'Tis certainly the season in Franschhoek, and as always, this is the time of year when visitors flock to our village, drawn by its undeniable charm and festive energy.With sun-drenched days inviting leisurely lunches, vibrant market strolls, and the iconic Wine Tram winding through breathtaking landscapes - there's no shortage of ways to embrace the season. Let's all play our part in flying the Franschhoek flag high, celebrating this special time together and welcoming the world to experience the generous spirit of our beloved valley.
GOOD NEWS STORY
Epice Awarded 'Best in Africa' by the World Culinary Awards The fifth annual World Culinary Awards Ceremony, hosted in Dubai saw Franschhoek’s Épice named not only South Africa’s Best Restaurant, but also receiving the coveted title of Africa’s Best Restaurant.
Wiesenhof Lifestyle Centre
“We are over the moon to have received this acknowledgement – considering we won Best New Restaurant in 2020, to have been awarded the title of Best Restaurant in Africa only four years later is truly amazing. I couldn’t be prouder of our amazing
farm entrance is on the corner of Berg and Cabrièrre Streets. We’re 300m from the gate on the left. As always we will continue to offer you our best service. Our telephone number will remain 082 625 5577 WE HAVE MOVED... but not too far!!
Wiesenhof Franchise and Roastery, situated on the main road just before the entrance to Franschhoek, is the ultimate family-friendly destination. Founded in 1994 by former Springbok rugby legend Kobus Wiese and his wife, Belinda, Wiesenhof began as a coffee roastery in Gauteng and has since expanded nationwide.
Wiesenhof Franschhoek serves as the flagship lifestyle concept for the brand. More than just a coffee shop, it offers gelato bar, restaurant, cocktail bar, bakery, and their signature coffee specialties.
Known for its delicious meals, exceptional service, and inviting ambiance, Wiesenhof is a must-visit in Franschhoek.
*Support the Wisenhof Pet Food Drive! Until 9 December 2024, donate an unopened bag of dog food and enjoy regular cappuccino and a pastry with compliments of Wiesenhof. Discover more: www.wiesenhof.co.za
WHERE WE’VE BEEN
Conscious Tourism Launched in Franschhoek Valley
Saturday 2 November marked the launch of an auspicious milestone for the Paarl-Franschhoek Valley. In a meaningful collaboration, the Val de Vie Foundation, Franschhoek Hospitality Academy, LindaPaige and Franschhoek Wine Valley created a significant and authentic experience for international visitors. Sixteen delegates from the USA and Australia, part of the LindaPaige tour, were treated to an unforgettable day starting with a wine tasting at Haute Cabrière and dinner under the stars in the beautiful Paarl-Franschhoek Valley, cooked by the intrepid delegates themselves.
“We were privileged to support our first Conscious Tourism Event at the Franschhoek Hospitality Academy (FHA). This type of interaction with our community is unparalleled. There is nothing like what I witnessed on Saturday evening and it underscored the value of supporting a sustainable NPO,” - Ruth McCourt, Franschhoek Wine Valley CEO
FRANSCHHOEK FESTIVE SHOPPING
Explore the festive charm of Franschhoek with a stroll along the main road, where you’ll find shops like Masquerade for festive decor, Ebony/Curated for fine art and local design, Huguenot Fine Chocolates for handcrafted treats, and InVINcible for exceptional wines. Don’t miss the Franschhoek Village Market every Saturday to support local artisans and discover unique gifts.
From all of us at Franschhoek Wine Valley and on behalf of our partners, we wish you health, happiness, and a season filled with sunshine, celebrations, and cherished memories. Here’s to the last magical days of 2024 and to a 2025 brimming with promise!
La Motte Wine Estate Vin de Joie Rosé
NEW MEMBER SPOTLIGHT
Thoughts From My Kitchen
Chantal Lascaris
The Secret to Easy Christmas Entertaining
The Christmas season is here, and with it comes a whirlwind of gatherings, from casual get-togethers to the big holiday bash. So what’s the ideal way to entertain during this time? Two words: charcuterie board. It’s the answer to all those moments when you’re desperately googling ‘easy Christmas recipes’. No baking, no grilling, just unwrapping and arranging. It’s light, easy and endlessly customizable. Here are a number of reasons why you should be entertaining the charcuterie way this season. Endless Options for Picky Eaters
Every family has at least one: the vegetarian cousin, the keto uncle, the friend who’s just decided they’re ‘trying a mostly pescatarian thing’. A charcuterie board is the Switzerland of holiday foods, offering neutrality and inclusivity. Think veggie sticks, nuts,
olives, cheeses, breadsticks, meats and some fruit. With a charcuterie spread, you’re not locked into any one cuisine. It’s a communal feast that lets everyone pick what they like and ignore what they don’t.
Presentation Makes You Look Like a Culinary Whizz
One of the best things about a charcuterie board? They always give off the vibe that you’ve got your life together. Even if the rest of the house is covered in holiday chaos, the charcuterie board will sit there looking like a work of art.
Less Clean-up
It’s wonderfully low maintenance. A few plates, some festive cocktail napkins and you’re set. When everyone’s done, toss the empty cheese rinds, pack the leftovers back in the fridge and get back to enjoying your summer holiday.
Adding the Christmas Magic
Making a charcuterie board look festive is all about adding some Christmas themed touches while keeping it fresh and summery. Here are a few ideas to add that holiday sparkle.
Seasonal Colours
Red and Green : use foods in classic Christmas colours to create a festive look. Use green grapes, sliced cucumber, red and green apples, strawberries, raspberries and cherry tomatoes.
Festive Garnishes
Arrange rosemary sprigs, or mint leaves in small circles, like mini wreaths, around items like cheese or bowls of dips. They add greenery and a fresh aroma that feels like the holidays.
End of a Diamond Era
“And so an era has come to an end,” started the social media post that announced the closing of Tracey’s Diamonds’ jewellery shop at the end of October 2024. The family-owned shop has been an institution on Franschhoek’s Huguenot St for 28 years.
The Tracey family has been in the diamond business for four generations. Robert Henry Tracey arrived in South Africa in the mid-1890s and started digging for diamonds at Bakersville, near Lichtenburg, in 1926. His son, George Arnold Tracey, became an apprentice diamond polisher at the age of 16 and, in 1943, was granted an allocation by De Beers’ central selling organisation.
In 1966, George was joined by his sons, Robert George and Evan James, who together with their father continued with the allocation until 1981. Thereafter, the brothers went their separate ways, with Evan deciding to continue in the diamond cutting and polishing business. Evan’s son, Matthew Tracey, joined his father after completing his apprenticeship in the Tracey’s diamond polishing factory. After Evan and his wife Vicki retired to St Francis Bay, their daughter Kim joined Matthew in the business.
The Tracey’s time in Franschhoek has seen them weather a few storms – proverbial and otherwise. They survived a world financial recession (20082010), two armed robberies (2006 & 2014), the Covid shutdown (2020-2021), floods (2023) and disruptive stop-and-go roadworks (2024).
After so many years, the Traceys say, the decision to close the doors wasn’t easy, but they decided now was a good time to make a positive change. “Diamonds are in our blood and in no way are we totally out of the business,” says Matthew and Kim, adding “We’re both still contactable and able to assist if anyone should need something…” Matthew has relocated to Hermanus, but Kim still lives in the village.
Star Shaped Foods
Use small cookie cutters to cut cheese, fruits, or cured meats into star shapes for a festive touch.
If you feel like doing a bit more, use Christmas themed cookie cutters to cut out shapes from bread and dry them to make your own melba toast. Perfect for alongside your dips and cheeses.
Holiday Snacks and Sweets
Scatter around some pistachios and cranberries. Pop a few mini candy canes around the edges and place chocolate coated nuts in small bowls for a hint of indulgence. These not only add a holiday vibe but also provide a sweet treat to the board.
Decorative Touches
If available, red and white edible flowers add a delicate, summery festive touch. Place small, clean ornaments around the board for added sparkle.
Use Christmas-themed knives, forks or small serving spoons. Use Christmas themed napkins to round it all off.
So this Christmas, ditch the kitchen and embrace the charcuterie board. It’s festive, flexible and requires virtually no time slaving over a stove. Plus, in a holiday season already stuffed with food, it’s the perfect lighter, fresher way to entertain through the silly season without breaking a sweat.
It is said that ‘Diamonds are forever’, but it doesn’t apply to those who sell them. While Franschhoek will miss Tracey’s Diamonds they will remain in the memories of those who wear their gems.
Text: Editorial Desk | Image: Supplied 083 670 5085 (Matthew) 083 477 2301 (Kim) info@traceysdiamonds.co.za
Tatler Motoring
MICHELE LUPINI
C63
Brings F1 To The Road
AMG’s bonkers electrified 2-litre 4-pot
C63 S defies logic
Who needs a V8? Could not get that out of my mind for a good while after this, quite literally mind-bending experience. So much so that I defy anyone who has had so much to say about this car being inferior to its old bent eight predecessors, to actually drive one of these before you next make a fool of yourself with your Jurassic boloney. See, every man and his dog has tossed his hat into the Mercedes-AMG C63 S e-Performance debate pit. How can they throw away the V8? How is it possible that I must step down to a four-cylinder? It will never be good enough, fast enough, bla di bla di bla…
Well hear this, all ye naysayers. Mercedes-AMG’s new-generation C63 super saloon is a life changer. It moves the brand into a new realm as it quite controversially drops its traditional biturbo V8 for hybrid-charged four-cylinder power unit that’s ready to warp your mind. Both physically, under acceleration. And mentally, in your conscience.
C63 Adds Rocket Boost to A45 4-Pot
As one would expect, our latest C63 sampler has an edgy body kit, chunky AMG sports alloys framing monster red calliper disc brakes, signature AMG exhaust tips and special edition bits and bobs. Never mind a rather garish badge that may as well be a nuclear attack siren. Which is about where the familiarity ends. Our C63 is the first to benefit AMG’s radical new hybrid drivetrain in place of the accepted and much loved biturbo V8 This new one instead gets a wild new electrified turbo 2-litre M139 four-pot.
Which is where the argument starts. And this one’s probably even more vicious than the same revelation turning the Land Cruiser world on its head, as we reported just last week. You will know the 310 kW 500 Nm petrol four-cylinder in nonelectrified Mercedes-AMG A 45 S form. Developed from the outset to be swung longitudinal and accept hybrid electric boosting, it’s also now tuned up to 350 kilowatts in this new C63. That not only squarely kicks the outgoing V8 into touch, but this
is comfortably now the most powerful four-cylinder engine ever seen series production.
Best of all, the M139 is now coupled at the tote with that 150 kW electric motor on the rear axle. This endows Mercedes-AMG’s new P3 powertrain with a total of 500 kW, or almost 150 kilowatt more than the V8 it replaces. Torque is also 50 Nm up on the outgoing V8 and 750 Nm. All that despite of a 50% reduction in swept capacity and cylinder count. C63 is stronger, quicker, thriftier. What more to you want?
The C63’s M139 engine additionally adopts a lagfree electric turbocharger and the bonus boost of an additional 22 kW 250 Nm 48V integrated electric starter motor snuggled in the bell housing of its nine-speed torque-converter MCT Speedshift gearbox. The new 160 kg M139 four-cylinder weighs considerably less than the old M177 V8 to bring better, lower mass distribution, a much improved centre of gravity and better balance.
Just in case, the fully variable all-wheel drive next C63’s 4Matic system is able to deliver all of its power aft for pure rear-wheel-drive. The C63 also brings some really cool new logic to the table. It will know where you’re driving via Satnav data, and adopt the entire drivetrain and chassis to the road that the car already understands via the cloud.
And if you are on a track, it will sense if you are on the circuit and quickly work out where and how to adapt its hybrid assistance to greatest effect. Yep, just like Hamilton and Russell in Formula 1, this AMG will optimally reap and deploy its output to suit its immediate environment. The battery also deploys and regenerates alarmingly quickly. Were we on track, we’d easily match F1’s lap of regen for the next lap of deployment.
Worse than the old C63 V8? Sorry, China, no chance! But hey, how does it drive? What does it sound like? How quick is it? Surely it’s nowhere near that V8? Sorry, China, no chance!
Thumb the F1-like steering toggles to Mad… no, wait, it was Race! Now bear with me as we go into slow motion for a few seconds. Stomp on the gas and the brake together, hear the scream as the electronic turbocharger spins itself up to warp speed full boost over and above that strangled rata-tat-tat as the red bars flash across the brilliant big heads up. And let the brake go like we used to drop the clutch back in the day…
Oh! My! God! Taking it to super slo-mo, a hell of a lot happens all at once. Firstly the seat belt
CAPRI PERANA
In motoring folklore, South Africa is notable for having developed and produced some rather special and unique motor cars over the years, generally with a sporting bent and almost all with a level of sophistication that characterised the engineering talent that existed in the country despite its isolation at the time. One such machine was the Capri Perana, a muscle car built out of Ford of Europe’s stylish new coupe. The Perana came about in the late 1960s and was the brainchild of Johannesburg garage owner and tuning specialist Basil Green. Green had successfully developed the Mk.2 Cortina Perana V6 and when the Capri was launched in SA, he turned his attention to the stylish new coupe. Based on the 3000XL, in standard form the 4 949 cc V8 pumped out
150 kW, but there were 186 kW and 220 kW (at 5 800 r/min) versions, the latter with around 270 N.m of torque at 3 500 r/min that helped realise a 0-100 km/h sprint time of 6,7 seconds and a top speed just shy of 230 km/h. Sitting on 38 mm lowered suspension with stiffer springs up front, the Capri Perana rode and handled extremely well. Only the standard brakes with harder pads were suspect, being prone to fade quickly with hard use.
Piloting FMM’s standard yellow-and-black 220 kW road car (complete with Perana’s signature rear window louvre unashamedly cribbed from the Lamborghini Miura) its period performance pony personality is immediate. Ample torque helps deliver effortless progress. Cornering requires a slow in/quick out approach to counter the
DISPLAY CHANGES...
A host of display changes in the halls have been for visitors to enjoy. The theme in Hall A is Veteran & Vintage, and apart from a shuffle of some of the cars on display, along with a couple of other oldies, the majestic 1922 Isotta Fraschini Tipo 8 makes a grand return. There is a whole new layout in Hall B, the theme of which is Summer Day Cruising with 20 open top models on display ranging from a 1914 Humberette Model 8 to a 1993 Alfa Romeo RZ. Hall C will is made up with a mix of American cars from the ’20s, ’30s, ’40s, ’50s and ’60s along with a 1970 Cadillac Sedan de Ville. Twelve
different marques will be represented. Hall D will continue with its mostly performance orientated theme, but this time joined by a handful of some interesting and rare offroaders including a 1950 DKW Munga 4 and a 1975 Citroën Méhari.
grabs you as if you’re a theif trying to escape an apartheid era policeman. The nose lifts the noise reaches a crescendo. All while your eyes press back in your sockets, you feel your brains splashing about and your body rams back into the seat.
A Local Geological Journey with Nick Norman
While you may know something of the geological forms seen in the Franschhoek Valley, it is no simple task to piece together these features into a story of the valley’s geological history. Local geologist and published author, Nick Norman, speaks and writes accessibly about the otherwise remote world of rocks. Born in Kwa-Zulu Natal where he completed his M.Sc in Geology, Nick has explored far and wide in search of the stories embedded in rocks. After exploring South American and Southern African geological features, Nick settled in Franschhoek in 1981 where he has since continued to write and explore the world of rocks.
The G is astounding as the nose lifts, and you sense it sending electric power wherever it can to support the petrol urge. All at the same time as the horizon attacks. Boom! 60 km/h in 1.5 seconds. Bam! 100 in 3 seconds. Wham! seven to 160. And hello ma’am! The quarter-mile in eleven at just this side of two-hundred. You record breaker, you!
Nick tells the fascinating story of how the Franschhoek Valley has taken on its present form after hundreds of millions of years and is still changing. You may know that the Franschhoek Mountains are formed from sandstone, a kind of sedimentary rock, and form part of the Cape Fold Mountains. Nick emphasises that these mountains, despite forming part of the Cape Fold Mountains, do not owe their current form to the process of folding (the convergence of plate tectonics that heaves vast quantities of the Earth’s material upward, forming mountains). Rather, our Franschhoek Mountains and valley were formed from an extremely slow process of erosion, mainly by water.
That all but matches our all-time record 2.98 second run. Now the fastest Mercedes-AMG we have ever tested, the new C63 even beat the biturbo V8 E63 S across the board. What’s more, it does so at a tiny fraction of the fuel used, and in incredible style too.
Ah yes, of course, it must sound horrible? Sorry to disappoint you, sir, ma’am, but while it’s completely different to the glorious old V8, this hybrid four-pot has a sound track to die for. Kinda a mix between Luke Skywalker’s pod and one of Elon Musk’s rockets on blast-off. And probably just as quick. On the road, you can choose to waft along in (close to) Maybach style or comfort. Or play Darth Vader and drive the Mercedes-AMG C63 S e-Performance like a mad thing. It’s both super smooth when trundling about on electric power alone. And surprisingly well composed and balanced when pushing on. Doubt even Fangio or Senna would find it as easy as you want to make out, that this car’s weight kills its dynamic edge.
Tet used to the 4-pot C63. The future is here!
In accounting for this, Nick takes us back to almost 600 million years ago. He explains that a sedimentation process was underway at this time, followed by folding. Igneous intrusions were being formed (molten rock which pushes its way up from the Earth’s mantle and into sedimentary rock formations). These would form Paarl Rock and the granite rock formations on Montpellier farm (near Bridge House School), exposed to the surface by erosion. The deposition of the sediments would form an impressive basin extending from Clanwilliam to Port Elizabeth and beyond (now removed by Continental Drift).
Sure it’s expensive. But that’s relative too. You must spend four times as much as this to find a supercar to come anywhere close to this level of performance. But getting back to the crux, is there any reason to cling on to that V8 dream? Well sentimentally, perhaps. But for every single data-driven decision, from its performance figures to its fuel consumption and driving range, the new one is a no brainer. Yes, it’s heavier. But its superbly sorted at that. And its considerably more expensive.
The folding that would ensue once more, explains Nick, would heave material up to an almost Himalayan scale! This time the erosion of these gigantic mountains would supply sediments extending across the entire Karoo Basin. Millennia of erosive action would give way to a gently undulating plain. At this stage, the supercontinent, Gondwana, would start to break up due to stirrings
But still a true performance bargain. Of course the whole V8 argument may very well be a moot point before we know it. E-fuels look increasingly likely to be the real green answer to our future return to even better V8s. But for now, this is the best solution. Is it a compromise? No, definitely not. It is rather an improvement. In just about every plausible way. Which leaves us to conclude that there is no argument. The new Mercedes C 63 AMG is the better car. In every measurable and perceivable way. So get used to it. The future is here! Follow Michele Lupini’s motoring adventures on https://theauto.page
ROAD TESTED: Mercedes-AMG C63 S e-Performance Engine: 500 kW 1020 Nm hybrid 2-litre turbo I4 Drive: 9-speed automatic AWD
Nick Norman with the Wemmershoek Mountains in the background.
in the Earth’s mantle. This movement would shape the landscape anew - new continents, mountains, oceans, coastlines, and rivers. This landscape dictated how the water would flow inland, capturing previous headwaters, and finding its way toward the oceans. In so doing, these active young rivers would carve out new valleys. And this is how the Franschhoek Valley and surrounding mountains came into being.
DECEMBER NEWS
inherent understeer, although squeezing the accelerator helps bring the tail around. The unassisted steering is weighty without being heavy. It sounds good, too, the twin exhausts emitting a throaty rumble that rises in unison with rev-counter needle.
FMM’s 1971 Ford Capri Perana is currently on view in Hall D.
GUNSTON CAPRI ON VIEW
More exciting race car news is that following the recent arrival of the Wesbank-winning BMW 535i, the sole remaining 1971 Team Gunston Group 2 Ford Capri Perana will be arriving at FMM at the end of November. It will go on display alongside the museum’s road-going version and the BMW for all of the holiday season. A full story on the Gunston car will appear in next month’s FMM NewsBrief.
LONGER OPENING TIMES
& SEASON WISHES
The Season has arrived and FMM will have longer visiting hours from December 1. Museum opening times between December to March are Monday to Friday 10h00 to 18h00 (last admittance 17h00), Saturday and Sunday 10h00 to 17h00 (last admittance 16h00). Note that the museum will be closed on Christmas Day. FMM thanks all the visitors and clubs for their continued support through 2024. “We wish all our guests safe travels during this busy time,” says FMM Curator Sian Theron, “and a safe and blessed Festive Season!”
Traces of this history can be identified in the valley. For example, river stones may be observed near Wemmershoek Primary School, which testify to the fact that the Berg River had meandered from one side of the valley to the other, carving out the valley as it went. The geological foundations described have also set the scene for the ecological systems surrounding us. From the sandy nutrient-poor soil, derived from the extremely hard quartzitic sandstone, the world’s most bio-diverse flora has sprung forth: fynbos. Indeed, the harsh conditions have required our indigenous plant life to be resourceful, adaptive, and evolutionarily creative. It follows that the fauna have also had to acclimatise to this harsh terrain. And yet, the valley’s ecology has provided enough organic matter, mixing with the eroded sedimentary rock and granite, to form soil that is fertile enough to produce some of the world’s finest wines and natural produce. And so we find ourselves entwined in the ongoing geological and ecological story of the land in our valley. If this story piqued your interest, Nick’s books can be purchased or ordered from your local book vendor. His publications include Going to Ground, Box of Rocks, Geology Off the Beaten Track, The Extraordinary World of Diamonds, and Geological Journeys. For more information about Nick, you can visit his website: https://www.nicknormanbook.com/.
VISITING FMM
Text: Leila Shirley | Image: Nick Norman
FMM’s opening time are Monday to Friday 10h00 to 18h00 (last admittance 17h00), Saturday and Sunday 10h00 to 17h00 (last admittance 16h00). Visiting the museum is by appointment only and via online booking.
Entry fees: R90 adults, R70 pensioners and motor club members (with proof of membership), R50 children (ages 3-12). Only electronic payments are accepted. The famed FMM Pitstop Deli is open throughout the visiting hours. For booking tickets and any other information as well as signing on for a free monthly newsletter, logon to www.fmm. co.za or phone 021 874 9000 or e-mail fmm@fmm.co.za
Gardening in May
NATIE FERREIRA
I’ve often mused in the past on how May is one of the most unpredictable months of the year. Every farmer in the winter rainfall area will tell stories of the years they waited for the rain to sow their crops, with the end of May being the ultimate deadline. In dry years the joke is that farmers plant on the 50th of May. This year things seem different. We were blessed with abundant early rains, and winter quickly pushed a short autumn out of the way. My soil is too waterlogged to work already – a pity because I had big plans to prepare new sections for vegetable planting in spring. I will have to go no-till this season and will experiment with sowing a green manure crop in narrow drills in the soil. Adding some radish and other root crops should loosen the soil enough to make up for the lack of deep cultivation. This green manure sowing must be done before the end of the month to ensure enough biomass to dig into the soil in spring. Finding a decent green manure seed mix in small quantities might be difficult and expensive for the home gardener. I’ve successfully used a mix of my expired vegetable and flower seeds combined with a garden bird seed blend from the pet food section. This gives a good variety of grains and green material. Adding some peas to the mix will trap nitrogen in the soil for the next season. You will have to utilize the sunny days between the cold fronts to their best, because May is a busy gardening month, with the rewards only coming much later in the season. Your autumn pruning should be well on its way by now, with only the late flowering shrubs such as Solanum, Tecomaria, Leonotis, Lavender, Plumbago and Hibiscus that still needs to be pruned. Tree surgery to deciduous trees also needs to be done sooner rather than later. Pay attention to overgrown evergreen trees and shrubs by cutting away some of the lower branches and opening the canopy to let in more sunlight. Perennials such as Canna’s, Michaelmas daisies, Japanese anenomes, Salvia and Gaura should all be cut back hard this month. Fertilise and mulch afterwards. Lift Dahlia bulbs if you have clay soil; in well-drained soil most bulbs and tubers can be left in the ground over winter. Fertilise all winter flowering shrubs with a balanced fertilizer.
I am not sure how I happened, but here we are at the end of another year. 2024 was a year of stormy conditions, not only in the weather, but also in commerce and international relations. Emotions are running high, and the effects of our continual exposure to the trauma innocent people are experiencing leaves us in a state of permanent post-traumatic stress. We can only hope and pray that this festive season brings comfort and peace to those suffering under bad leaders. Our gardens are a place of refuge in turbulent times; let us spare a thought for those farmers and gardeners that lost it all this year, be it through war, weather or poverty. Our soils have been blessed with copious amounts of rain this winter, and the water table is still high enough to maintain lush growth as we move into the dry season. Those gardeners that made the time during spring to plan and plant for a festive display will be well rewarded. Those of us that were caught up in the hustle of the year will hopefully now have the time to retreat into their gardens and make up for time lost. If your garden was seriously neglected, you will do well on focusing your attention on high impact spaces. Getting your lawn healthy and spending time on perfect edges will have an immediate effect. Trimming hedges and shrubs will give the garden beds a groomed appearance, whilst weeding and then mulching with ornamental bark will make even the barest patches look cared for. Money will be well spent on a few large flowering shrubs and perennials to liven up dreary areas and your patio pots. Focus some energy on your pavement and entrance garden to please guests and passers-by. Decorative entrance gardens liven up a neighbourhood and adds value to the properties, let’s start showing off. While most of my energy will be spent in the
productive garden, there are plenty of other urgent tasks that I will get help with. Roses must be deadheaded and given a light summer prune following the November flush. I normally take out every third flowering stem and remove all the old flowerheads. This will ensure an extended summer display. The weather is still conducive to mould and mildew; treat susceptible plants preventatively with copper and sulphur. React to pests as spotted and only use organic sprays. The lawn can do with another feed. There are good organic fertiliser crumbles available commercially. I will add some agricultural lime because of the acidifying effect of the winter rains. Set your mower slightly higher to help cool the soil and protect young grass shoots. Also make sure you are prepared for summer’s winds. Prune overgrown and damaged shrubs and trees, stake and tie young trees and make sure your windbreaks are well fed and watered. I also recommend applying another layer of mulch throughout the garden. This will give the flowerbeds a finished appearance while protecting moisture and nutrients in the soil.
Your lawnmower can be set slightly lower. This will allow more sunlight to the lower swards of grass and help against diseases. Lawns should be fed with a high potash feed to ensure good root growth through winter. Applying agricultural lime at a rate of 50g per square meter helps keep winter weeds at bay and will help ensure a lush spring lawn.
My early work in the vegetable garden paid off, and I am looking forward to the feast that will soon follow. Garden hygiene is very important as our food ripens. Remove scarred fruit and leaves, and stake bushes to keep ripening vegetables away from the ground. Scout the garden daily and react as pests are spotted. Pumpkin fly and caterpillars can be a menace in summer, use a combination of traps and organic sprays to control them. Keep up the successive sowings of leaf and root veggies, it will soon get too hot for them.
The nurseries are stocked with all sorts of winter colour – sweet peas, delphinium, dianthus, foxgloves, Iceland poppies, larkspur, pansies, viola, primula, stocks and lobelia. Patient gardeners can still sow seeds of all of these. The last of the winter and early spring flowering bulbs such as Lachenalia and Watsonia must be planted before the middle of the month. May is probably the best month to establish new Fynbos gardens. Trees planted now will have a chance to establish a decent root system before the summer heat arrives.
My kitchen will be a very busy place this December. I am already looking at new ways to prepare marrows and green beans, there are more spinach than I can handle, and we will soon have a glut of tomatoes to process. My okra plants are also looking promising, and I am thinking of ideas to get adventurous with them in the kitchen. It is also soft fruit season and time to stock the pantry with jams, jellies and preserves.
In the vegetable garden beetroot, broad beans, cabbage, carrots, celery, Swiss chard, onions, peas and turnips can all be sown now. Winter is also the most successful time of the year to grow salad crops in the Cape; summer is often simply too hot. Sow cover crop on unused beds, even letting weeds grow is better that leaving the soil exposed.
Happy gardening, see you next year.
Blood Sugar and Weight
An unstable blood sugar balance could be the reason you’re not losing weight. Here’s why.
Rainfall Figures
Eat less, move more. That’s how you lose weight, right? Not so. The process of losing weight is not so simple. Everybody is unique in the way it responds to the absorption and utilisation of food and nutrients, and how it responds to exercise. Not to mention the personal lifestyle considerations, such as stress levels and sleep. All these factors influence weight loss and gain. Add to this, they fluctuate throughout our lifetime, which complicates matters even further. But there is a further element at play, the complex relationship between blood sugar and hormones.
A brief lesson in how hormones work in regulating our blood glucose
Though most often associated with diabetes, the hormone insulin is a big contributor in maintaining a healthy weight. To put it simply, the way it works is this: After you eat, the sugar (glucose) from the food enters the bloodstream. The pancreas then produces insulin whose job is to move the sugar from the bloodstream to the cells where it is converted into energy. If this energy is not used up (when you’ve had a day-long Netflix marathon for example), this excess sugar is stored in the liver and muscles as glycogen until such time as the body needs it. A different hormone, glucagon is released when your blood sugar levels are low (such as at night when you’re sleeping or when you’ve been exercising) and converts the stored glycogen back into glucose and releases it back into the bloodstream to be used as energy. But if there is an excess of glycogen in the liver and muscles, this is then stored in the fat cells as triglycerides – and you put on weight. On the other hand, when your glycogen is all used up, your body taps into your fat stores. The result? Weight loss.
Problems creep in when your blood sugar is too high, and your levels of insulin are chronically high. This can often lead to you becoming insulin resistant which means your body stops responding to insulin. It’s a vicious cycle because, with the increase in blood sugar, the pancreas produces more and more insulin to try and move it into the cells, but being insulin resistant, the body can’t covert this sugar into energy, which results in weight gain.
So hence, the role of insulin and glucagon have a complex balancing act to play in regulating blood sugar levels, and if you don’t keep them in check, your insulin production will go into overdrive and your weight will suffer, not to mention put you at risk of developing type 2 diabetes.
Tips for regulating your blood sugar balance
While everybody’s body is uniquely different, there are certain lifestyle tips one can do to help
In our house cold and rainy autumn days are spent in the kitchen. Soups, broths, stews, and slow roasts are the order of the day. While these are slowly bubbling away on the stove, we will have an abundance of guavas to process into preserves and chutney. I will also be dreaming about next season, and the abundance that I hope for by this time next year. Last year’s lack of planning and timeous action left our pantry quite empty this winter.
keep your blood sugar levels in check:
• Exercise regularly: Exercise uses the blood sugar for energy and uses the glycogen stored in the muscles as fuel. It also helps maintain a healthy weight which prevents insulin resistance.
• Include strength training in your exercise routine: Strength training improves heart health, builds muscle and prevents muscle loss, as well as boosts bone density, all of which improves insulin health and lowers high blood sugar levels.
• Eat a healthy diet of with plenty of fibre, healthy fats and whole grains: These all slow carb digestion and sugar absorption, and keep you fuller for longer.
• Manage your carb intake: Too many carbohydrates can cause the delicate balance of insulin production and blood glucose levels to go into overdrive, so try focus on a low carb diet.
• Eat small portions throughout the day: Not only does this keep your blood sugar levels stable, but portion control can also help maintain a healthy weight.
• Eat a balanced diet of protein, fat and carbs: Protein builds muscle, fat assists in the absorption of vitamins and carbohydrates sustain energy. Try and eat a combination of all three in one meal. (e.g. Greek yoghurt and oats, crackers, cheese and avocado, pasta and protein)
• Eliminate stress: Stress triggers a “fight or flight response” which causes the body to produce glucagon and cortisol, both of which cause blood sugar levels to rise.
• Choose food with a low GI: Foods with a low glycaemic index such as non-starchy vegetables, oats, yoghurt, lentils slow the digestive process down which in turn reduces blood sugar levels.
• Stay hydrated: Drinking plenty of water will flush out the excess sugar through your urine.
• Eat meals at set times: Studies have found that men at risk of type 2 diabetes benefitted from restricting all their eating into a nine-hour timeframe. (For example between 11am and 8pm). Consult a nutritionist for further guidance on restricted eating.
• Take a supplement: Supplements, such as Herbex’s Blood Sugar Balance can assist with balancing blood sugar levels and curb cravings. What NOT to do
Whatever you do, don’t starve yourself. Skipping meals will simply lead to higher blood glucose levels, slowed metabolism and ultimately weight gain.
Text: Editorial Desk | Image: Pixabay/stevepb
Rainfall Figures
Ansche’s People
The Women behind Franschhoek’s Hospice Shop
If you are a local or even a tourist in this town, you probably would have walked past the Hospice shop on your way to Pick n Pay. Or perhaps, you own a shirt, book, CD or crockery that you’ve purchased at the shop. I had to go and find out who the people working behind the scenes are who make the Hospice shop the success it is. It is a team of three women: Pearl Groenewald, Lebo Lebakeng and Evelyn Africa.
Pearl, born and raised in the valley, has been involved in Hospice for seven years. Her sister worked for Hospice, and while she had a job at Pep, she would help at Hospice functions when extra hands were needed. She soon decided to join the Hospice team.
Evelyn, originally from the Eastern Cape, started working at Hospice in 2002 after being a house cleaner for many years. Lebo is also from the Eastern Cape. In 2020, Lebo began working as a cleaner in the Hospice shop and later became one of the staff members helping out behind the counter.
All three women are dedicated to Hospice and the community. They see Hospice and the people they serve as their family and want to work there for as long as they can. “I don’t have a mom or dad,” Evelyn shares. “Hospice allowed me to meet people I now can call my parents. Even when I go to my family in the Eastern Cape, I always miss my family in Franschhoek. This is home.”
When asked what makes Franschhoek Hospice so special and unique, the team agrees that it is the warmth and respect shown to everyone who walks through the doors. Hospice welcomes all, no matter their culture, age, or background. Beyond selling clothes and goods, they provide a space where people can find a listening ear and compassionate support.
“Some days are busier than others,” Pearl says. “Especially if you have to clean up a house and then sort out everything, but we all have a role to play and help one another like teammates should.” Lebo notes that the shop has more regular locals visiting than tourists and activity tends to pick
up towards the end of the year before they close for Christmas. Despite Franschhoek’s growing busyness, Evelyn reflects that the community’s spirit remains strong. “Life is busy in itself. People long for a place where they can just rest and Franschhoek has that feeling,” she adds.
Outside work, the women share other interests. Evelyn and Lebo have a gift for working with children, while Pearl is known for her exceptional cooking. “She makes delicious food and always shares it with us at work,” Lebo says with a smile.
Over Christmas, the women return to their families but admit they miss each other during those days. For Lebo, Christmas is particularly special as she also celebrates her birthday on 25 December with her loved ones. Pearl reflects, “Christmas is a time for family. It’s a happy time to think about what you’ve achieved this year and to remember those we’ve lost.”
At the end of the year, the women of Franschhoek Hospice encourage locals to look beyond their own needs and consider the well-being of others. Even a small gesture of kindness can make a significant difference in someone’s life.
“The strength of a woman lies in her resilience, her kindness, and her unwavering ability to uplift others.” This sentiment perfectly encapsulates the spirit of Pearl, Lebo, and Evelyn, who continue to uplift Franschhoek through their hard work and heartfelt service.
There are many ways to contribute to Hospice. Consider donating items such as crockery, books, CDs and other household possessions. Items can be dropped off at the shop or collected upon request. Cash donations are also welcome, with all funds directed toward supporting locals in need and helping Hospice patients.
Groendal Primary Honours Achievers
On Thursday, 17 October Groendal Primary honoured their 2024 achievers for their diligence, hard work and greatly improved skills during the year. The awards function was held in the Groendal Secondary School Hall with the Primary School’s grades 1 to 7 in attendance.
The function started on time at 18h00 when those being awarded were led in by the head learners carrying the school banner. All were smartly dressed and behaved extremely well, especially during the extended activities. The MC for the evening was the very capable Jacky Daniels with the Deputy Head of the school doing the welcome. The first honours to be awarded were the academic awards for grades 1 to 3. Grades 4 to 6 followed, after which the sport achievers were announced. The prizes for grades 5 to 6 were then handed out. Each grade is subdivided and in each subdivision, a minimum of three learners were honoured for attaining first, second or third place in the class.
The sports awards followed the academic ones.
Investing in Job Creation
Investing in opportunities for children and youth through socio-economic development is a forward-looking approach to giving back to society.
“Children and young people are the future of our communities, and through social economic development [SED] initiatives focusing on the youth, we aim to make a positive difference in the areas where we operate,” says Kgomotso Maapola, SED manager for the Medipost Holdings Group.
One of the leading challenges facing South Africa is youth unemployment, and Medipost Holdings recently supported the Franschhoek Hospitality Academy and Learning Centre via a SED donation to Valcare.
“Investing in young people and assisting them to enter the working world through equipping them with hospitality skills and practical training in this key growth sector of the economy is already making a difference in the lives of 24 young people, who are now employed at various hotels and restaurants following the completion of their courses,” she says.
communities to stimulate local economic activity,” adds Medipost Group Chief Executive Officer Dr Victor Ramathesele.
These were split into the summer and winter activities of athletics and cricket, and rugby and netball. Trophies or medals were handed out to each achiever. These had been donated by members of the Franschhoek community. Groendal Primary showed their appreciation by inviting the donors to hand out these trophies and medals to the winners. Once the sports awards had been distributed, it was the turn of the grade 7s to be honoured. The evening was rounded off by speeches from the Head Boy and Head Girl, the announcement of the dux student for 2024 and the head learners for 2025. The ceremony concluded on time as planned.
Text: Richard von Hoesslin | Image: Hedwig Blaauw
“Not only are we contributing towards these individuals’ ability to earn a livelihood for themselves to uplift their own families, but they are also provided with a foot on the ladder for making their mark on the internationally-renowned South African hospitality and tourism sector.
“Many of these skills have broader relevance and application in other industries, and we have no doubt that the training they received through the Franschhoek Hospitality Academy will help to open doors to more opportunities in future, whichever path they choose.”
“Through developing their potential, today’s youthful hospitality executive could open the door to creating more opportunities in local
Hospice News
Colleen Douglas
“Addressing youth unemployment will require collective efforts, and we encourage other corporates to join hands in investing and mentoring the youth, as every bit of support represents hope for South Africans,” he says.
“On behalf of the Medipost Holdings family, we sincerely appreciate the caring work of organisations such as the Franschhoek Hospitality Academy and the power of their work to build a more prosperous future for all. We are humbled to be able to sponsor some of the needful elements for these young beneficiaries, and wish them every encouragement in the years ahead,” Dr Ramathesele concludes.
www.franschhoekhospitalityacademy.co.za | www.medipost.co.za
Hospice hosted a coffee morning to say ‘thank you’ to our volunteers. Every second Tuesday, they have provided sandwiches and tubs of soup, for our patients and their families in the community. Their dedication to
delicious meals ensures this project runs throughout the year. Nine loaves of bread and 20 litres of soup, we manage to reach 91 families. You are our angels!
Donors together with the Ward 1 councillor (a past student) and the organiser. From left to right: Richard von Hoesslin (Cricket), Cllr Reginald Pheiffer, Miss Hedwig Blaauw (Organiser), Miss Makayla Roger (Netball) and Mr Justin Mitchell (Rugby).
Franschhoek
making
Franschhoek Theatre supports Franschhoek High School
Where Small-Town Charm Meets Big-City Culture’
Learning about wine at Franschhoek Hospitality Academy
Thank you Professor Venter for telling us in your “advertorial” in the November Tatler that after six years of planning the Franschhoek Cable Way Project Team (aka Skytram) has now got around to “exploring effective and sustainable methods of ensuring that [Skytram] is aligned with the interests of all sectors of the Franschhoek community and that [it’s] benefits will accrue to the local economy.” Better late than never I suppose but good luck with that!
Thank you also Professor Venter for using the first half of your advertorial to tell us how “Since 2002, the international community has made strides in managing the impact of tourism on cultural and heritage sites” and Skytram “is committed to ‘tread lightly’[in] one of the world’s most prized environmental and heritage sites.”
You misunderstand “tread lightly”. In the environmental context, it means you strive to ensure you leave no trace of your passing through or being in a sensitive area. A massive permanent structure such as the top station is totally incompatible with the element of transience that is fundamental to the “tread lightly” concept. To claim that Skytram can “tread lightly” is an abuse and misuse of the term. Can a giant “tread lightly”??
You say that “Should [Skytram] garner majority support” you will establish an Environmental Monitoring Committee (EMC) “as in the case of the Berg River Dam” but you don’t explain how you will
Franschhoek Village Market
The Franschhoek Market has long been a cornerstone of the Village, deeply woven into its character and charm. Over the years, it has become not only a favourite gathering spot for locals but also a major attraction for visitors from near and far. In many ways, the market has grown into a vital part of the community — some might even consider it an institution in its own right. However, the market’s future is now uncertain. After the temporary consent use for its operation on the grounds of the NG Church expired, the church, as the landlord, applied to the Stellenbosch Municipality for permanent consent use approval. The municipality gave approval for one market day a week plus 12 additional days. However, in response, a small group of business owners in Huguenot Street — who argue that the market detracts from their businesses — petitioned the NG Church for changes. As a result, and contrary to the initial municipal approval, the church council has decided to reduce the market’s operating hours and only allow it to operate on Saturdays and on one additional day per term - i.e. 4 additional days a year.
Franschhoek Village Market
Due to the misconception regarding the support of the Business Community towards the Village Market, we deemed it necessary to give you a hearfelt and fairly represented response. As business owners we welcome and have never been against the Village Market. We appreciate it as a much loved part of Franschhoek life for both local residents and our many visitors.
The Franschhoek Business Association is a group of more than twenty large and small family run businesses, comprising restaurants, coffee shops, galleries, shops and landlords, who employ more than two hundred people on a permanent basis. All the businesses are based in the centre of the Village. Our concerns were the additional market
know whether there is “majority support”.
You will remember that I was a member of the EMC for the Berg River Dam with other representatives from all sections of the Franschhoek community, other interest groups, City of Cape Town, national, provincial and local government.
The Berg River Dam EMC did not consider whether it would be built - the Franschhoek community had accepted that - but how adverse impacts in the construction and operational phases would be monitored and managed and benefits might accrue to the previously disadvantaged residents of the Franschhoek Valley.
While the Franschhoek representatives on the Berg River Dam EMC played a vital role in establishing and implementing a Franschhoek First training and employment policy, after it approved the Environmental Management Plan they all resigned as they were then ignored. I’m sure you will remember that.
A Skytram EMC may act as “the eyes and ears” of the community, but it will have no teeth!
You will also remember the promise made to the residents of Bosbou La Motte who lost their jobs when the forestry operations ceased to make way for the dam. They were told there would be a Sustainable Utilisation Plan (SUP) for recreational activities on the dam and new employment opportunities. Implementation of the SUP was a condition of approval by the Berg River Dam EMC of the Environmental Management Plan. This unlocked the funding for the dam’s construction. Nineteen years after the dam was filled the promise remains unfulfilled.
BarryPhillips
This decision has raised concerns within the community and other businesses in Huguenot Street who see the market as a benefit.
The Franschhoek Wine Valley and the Franschhoek Heritage and Ratepayers Association have argued that competition should not be used as reason to restrict a business’s ability to operate. Protection from competition is not a valid reason for objection in planning law. FWV, the FCC and the FHRPA believe the market plays a vital role in preserving Franschhoek’s unique atmosphere. Rather than competing with local commerce, the market is seen as an asset that draws both residents and tourists, contributing to the village’s vibrancy and charm. As the market faces these challenges, it is more important than ever for the community to rally behind it and its traders. Supporting the market will help ensure that this cherished institution remains a central part of Franschhoek for years to come.
WilfredMoses(Co-Chair:FHRPA)
BarryPhillips(Co-Chair:FHRPA)
HeinKoegelenberg(Chairperson:FWV)
WilfredMoses(President:FhkChamberofCommerce)
days outside of the scope of the permit from Stellenbosch Municipality which affect a number of smaller businesses. Thanks to the efforts of Dr Chris Van der Merwe, Chairman of the NGK, we have now agreed that the market will comply with its permit and operate on Saturdays from 9.00 - 3.00pm.
We have also suggested that we work together with the Market and the Church to bring about 4 extra Festival Markets a year that can include all traders and businesses to everyone’s benefit.
The importance of this notice is to rectify any false information being circulated that we are not in favour of the market, we are simply trying to work with them for a successful trading environment for all.
Franschhoek Business Association
Editor’s Letter
Siegfried Schäfer
Dear Readers, I have previously written about what I would consider appropriate development in Franschhoek and what I would not. My thinking on the topic is generally informed by a strategic decision that was made years ago by the local tourism association. The decision recognised that Franschhoek is small and that if its character is to be preserved and the largest number of jobs created the emphasis in tourism development had to be on high-end, independent travellers. These travellers are interested in unique experiences and really getting to know the culture and lifestyle of the destination they are visiting. This approach has worked well for Franschhoek and made it the destination that it is. Recently, however, more and more things are happening/being proposed that are completely out of line with this successful high-end-independent approach.
A slightly different way to look at the same situation is to say that your ideal tourist is the one who spends a lot of money during his visit and stays for as long as possible. On the other side of the coin the very worst kind of tourist any destination has to suffer, i.e. the type that has the most drawbacks and least benefits for the destination, is the daytripper. I subdivide this category into two subcategories, independent day trippers with their own/hired car and those arriving by the busload. Day trippers seldom spend significant amounts of money in the places they visit and, as the term implies, don’t spend the night thus further reducing the economic benefit they bring. In the case of the independent day tripper, at least they tend to spend more time in a destination increasing the chances of greater spend. They’re also generally less
disruptive to the receiving environment than hordes delivered by bus, who at best spend only a few hours in the place they’re visiting. In Franschhoek that usually means being dropped off near the Huguenot Monument and given an hour or two to wander down the Main Road to the Dutch Reformed Church where they are picked up again. Along the way, they create pedestrian chaos by clogging our narrow sidewalks. As if to add insult to injury, their tour busses then create traffic chaos as they turn right upon leaving the church grounds.
Another measure Franschhoek put in place years ago – and is no longer being enforced by Stellenbosch Municipality – was a ban on what has been termed ‘formula restaurants’ – the prime example being fast food franchises. The problematic part wasn’t the fast food, but rather the franchise part. The effect of keeping out franchises was that Franschhoek developed a lot of unique characterful offerings rather than the generic franchises that could be found in every town and city. This unique selling point that served Franschhoek so well is sadly also being eroded. Horror of all horrors, I’ve recently heard rumours that MacDonald’s is scouting for a location on our Main Road! Sayonara to sophisticated village charm…
All considered I have to say that I find it difficult to be optimistic about the quality of our village’s tourist offerings. The way things are currently developing we are in slow decline towards being just another Winelands village instead of the Jewel of the Winelands we once were. I hope that in the New Year we’ll find ways to stop the rot and that the powers that be will realise that one-size-fits-all is not always the best approach.
On that rather depressing note, let me wish you all a happy and healthy Festive Season. Alternatively, in Oprah Winfrey’s words: “Cheers to a new year and another chance for us to get it right.”
Until next month
DEADLINES - JANUARY 2025 ISSUE
Bookings - 10 December 2024 | Artwork - 11 December 2024 | Editorial - 11 December 2024
WE KNOW YOU CARE, WE KNOW YOU WANT TO HELP TO CHILDREN WHO BEG ON FRANSCHHOEK STREETS DO NOT GIVE MONEY OR DIRECT SUPPORT BUT PLEASE...
No matter how well-meaning, direct support keeps our children on the street: Giving money or support of any kind directly to children on the street might seem harmless, or helpful, to members of the public, tourists, and businesses. The truth is that it means keeping them out of school, on the streets, and locked in the hands of those exploiting them.
Unfortunately, once a child settles onto the street and allows the street to become their survival paradigm, they become locked into street life and resistant to change
BRUCE ACKERMAN
Tax Efficient Donations to Charities Can Reduce Your Tax Bill
This is the time of the year when many begin naturally considering seasonal present-giving to their friends and loved ones. We would urge you also to consider making a donation, no matter how large or small, to FRANCO to help the less fortunate in our community over this time. An attraction is that donations to registered Public Benefit Organizations like ours can be written off against South African tax liabilities by individual local taxpayers up to 10% of their annual taxable income. This also applies to local companies with the difference that total donations in any one tax year in excess of 10% of their revenue can be carried forward to the next tax year. FRANCO provides the necessary tax certificates to donors after the end of the financial year, for SARS tax return purposes. Similar provisions apply in many other countries in respect of their taxpayers for tax deductible
charitable donations to foreign Public Benefit Organisations. Country dependent, tax efficient donations can either be made directly to FRANCO or, for example in the case of UK taxpayers, via a UK approved charity such as the Charities Aid Foundation, specifically for onward transmission to us. This is because the UK tax authorities only allow tax deductible donations to UK based charities.
The UK also has a Gift Aid scheme whereby a UK charity can reclaim 20% of all donations from the UK Revenue, thereby enhancing the value of the donation to the charity.
At FRANCO, we value all contributions, tax efficient or otherwise - be they regular or irregular amounts, time given to assist in our various activities, or donations in kind such as clothing or electrical appliances.
The FRANCO team wish all our many local and overseas donors a happy, safe and enjoyable festive season and for the new year ahead. You may rest assured the team will continue its community work and educational support into this new year and for many years ahead, funds permitting.
If you would like any further information on our activities or provide some form of assistance, please contact our manager, Tzilka Watson on 060 374 0353 at our office at 5 Mark Street, Groendal. Our website is www.francosa.co.za
The money they get from begging: No program, organization, centre, or school can compete for the child's attention when they can earn over R50 a day in our smaller provincial towns, never mind the odd foreign currency equivalent of R200. This money is not used for food or schooling needs but goes directly into substance abuse, or is handed over to support their guardians' substance abuse.
Food from restaurants and locals: Many restaurants, small businesses, and individuals feel sorry for the children, so give them food and even small jobs for money. This helps sustain the children on the street, validating their impression that life on the streets is better and
keeping them out of school and out of the programs set up to look after them.
Public support: Many well-meaning members of the public give the children shoes, clothes, and food items. Most of this is sold or traded and is used not only to sustain them on the street, and pay for drugs but also to encourage them to remain on the street.
Many people want to help but often don’t know how to give responsibly. By donating to the FRANCO StreetKids Centre, you can make a significant impact on our children’s future. We offer daily hot meals, tutoring, mentoring, hygiene facilities, trauma counseling, sports, karate, yoga, and skills programs. Most importantly, we provide LOVE and RESPECT for their innocence.
Business Leadership
Making Working Wonderful
The number of people who arrive at work, who look forward to being there, enjoy their work and the people around them is frighteningly small. Many companies strive hard to give their workspaces a warm family feel. Some do succeed. But many don’t, or don’t fully succeed. Perfection is a worthy goal, but it should be something that we strive for and keep striving for.
There are many obstacles to creating a happy workplace and motivated workforce.
Perhaps the most important and insidious one, is that our world is experiencing major watershed change. And it is happening in a dramatic, discontinuous fashion at great speed. It is difficult to keep up. The other important consideration along with the stress caused by change is that we are living through a global period of conflict and disassociation. All forms of media inform us, 24/07, of all the drama and some of the excitement occurring in the world. The exponential growth of information technology has made our world bigger and smaller at the same time; it has become more accessible
Quick Tips For Preventing Time Fraud
While accountants have become adept at spotting and preventing financial fraud simply by analysing a company’s books, there is another kind of fraud that needs alert leadership, record keeping and careful analysis to completely snuff out. Time fraud sounds like a concept from a scifi movie, but in reality, it’s actually quite a simple concept. Like with those who commit regular fraud, a time fraudster is purposefully stealing from the company, but what they are stealing is a much less tangible asset – time.
Time fraud is any kind of employee behaviour that knowingly steals time from a company. It could be as minor as taking an extra smoke break, or purposefully arriving late, but can also involve using extended company time for side projects, and even illegally clocking in for shifts that weren’t worked. The 10-10-80 rule of business fraud says that 10% of employees will never cheat a company, 80% will cheat a company under the right circumstances and 10% are always actively looking for ways to cheat the company. This means that if it is unchecked time fraud can become a companywide problem that chokes profitability, irritates customers and destroys team morale. Here are our tips for making sure it doesn’t destroy your company.
SPOTTING TIME FRAUD
Recognising the red flags
Detecting time fraud is about watching patterns. An employee who comes in late occasionally is not a fraudster, one who comes in late every day just might be. Catching a time fraudster therefore requires you to pay close attention to the employee’s behaviour. Sometimes honest employees can be guilty of one or more of these things, dependent on their skill level or job requirements, but if they are adding up, you are likely looking at a thief.
and simultaneously more confusing; everything is closer and more distant; we are able to reveal the most intimate details on social media but never really connect effectively at the deeply personal level. There is unlimited anonymity. All of this has led to workplaces becoming more depersonalised. Much of our engagement and contact now is done via the small, dehumanised screen. One of my clients recently told me he feels completely detached from his clients and summed it up thus: “I used to speak directly to my clients, now I speak to a screen.”
Another unfortunate consequence of the growing use of technological communication channels is the increasing ‘siloisation’ within companies. There is no need to walk around and talk to colleagues. We just WhatsApp or email them, even if they sit only a few metres away. This has its impact on interpersonal trust and the strength of relationships. We put everything, all the detail, in emails or messages, and then copy them to all and sundry to make sure our backs are covered.
Change must happen; otherwise we will progressively lose our humanity and become increasingly depersonalised. We are human; we are a herding species. We need others, not only to survive, but also to thrive. There is abundant evidence that suggest mental health is tied to the closeness and intimacy of our relationships with friends and family.
It is this closeness that we should be fostering,
Is the employee regularly claiming they worked long hours, but getting very little done? Do they frequently miss deadlines? Are there inconsistencies in their time tracking or billable hours records? What are the employee’s colleagues saying about their efforts?
The fraud triangle
Fraud criminologist Donald R. Cressey has developed what he calls the Fraud triangle, a tool businesses can use to determine which employees are most likely to commit any kind of fraud, including time theft.
As the name suggests, the fraud triangle asks managers to pay particular attention to employees who exhibit any of these three components:
• Motivation: People with motivation to commit time fraud are more likely to do it. Motivation covers a wide range of incentives from the receptionist with a new boyfriend she loves chatting to on the phone, to the ambitious go-getter who is trying to start their own side-hustle.
• Opportunity: Opportunity is much more common now when so many people work from home. Employees who would be able to indulge in time fraud without comment are much more likely to infringe.
• Rationalisation: Again, employees who are able to rationalise their time theft are much more likely to do it. For example, if they believe the 30minutes they leave early each day isn’t missed by the company.
HOW TO PREVENT TIME FRAUD
Communicate concerns
“Because of the 10-10-80 rule and the fraud triangle, preventing 80% of time fraud generally revolves around simply removing people’s opportunity to commit time fraud and their ability to rationalise it. Write up clear policies and procedures on time fraud and ensure that these are shared regularly with the team to show it does matter to you and that you are on top of it.
Your communications should also show the downsides to time fraud such as overtime for teams to meet deadlines, bad relationships with clients and declining profitability which could lead
especially at the workplace. After all we spend some sixty per cent of our conscious time at work! We need to make work a supremely positive place to be!
This is no easy or simple task.
As usual, it starts with leadership. It starts with the behaviour modelling adopted by the leaders. Do they hide away in their offices, or do they manage by walking around? Are they visible, accessible and interacting actively with the people they lead? If not, they have work to do.
People repeat behaviour that is rewarded. These rewards do not always have to be financial. In fact, some of the most powerful rewards have nothing to do with finance, but much more to do with recognition and affirmation. There are many ways of providing these. A gentle word of unexpected encouragement, public recognition of some achievement no matter how small, making sure that everyone understands the importance of greeting everyone every day in a warm and friendly manner, these all count. In short, by encouraging people to talk to each other, to make friends at work enhances the warmth and spontaneity of the people in it.
Closer relationships can be encouraged in several ways including small social gatherings – the CEO of one of my clients invites 10 people to tea with him once a month. The invitations are chosen by a random number generator which ensures that those coming to tea are from all levels and from across the organisation. This way he is building human connections throughout the business.
to layoffs. Stripped of their ability to rationalise their theft, 80% of people will stop engaging in any time fraud and others will be incentivised to report colleagues who do still engage.
Monitor your employees
Monitoring employees sounds very 1984, but it does not have to be onerous and does not require micromanagement. It can be as simple as installing cameras at the entrance of the building or asking your managers to make a simple note each time an employee is absent, late or misses a deadline. It is important to keep a record of these things so that if it is ever necessary to meet up with an errant employee there is some kind of record of their wrongdoing to show them they are being watched.
Audits and analysis
When an employee becomes suspicious you may have to take things to the next level and begin auditing their time. Check what time they logged in, when they had their meetings and whether they
Town hall meetings also have an important role to play. They should be human engagement sessions, not always agenda driven, and should more often than not be a space of repartee.
I was reminded how important friends are at a recent sermon that I was privileged to hear. Because we spend most of our conscious time at work it becomes doubly important to build friendships in this space for our own good. What is a friend?
Friends stick together through thick and thin. They are always there for you, no matter how dire the situation. They keep you going. Friends support each other and hurt together. It is a relationship of mutuality. You give and receive in equal measure.
Friends counsel each other. Counselling a friend does not mean telling him or her what he or she wants to hear but rather what he or she needs to hear. There is often a significant difference between the two. Giving and receiving honest feedback is at the heart of good long-lasting friendships. Leaders would be well advised to create workplaces where friendships abound, are encouraged and even rewarded. Close friendships are not created in cyberspace. These can only be created by personal, close interaction between living, bleeding, loving human beings. They can act as a powerful glue and energy for good in the organisation.
tony@siroccostrategy.com
were using their company laptops for something other than their work, by looking at their internet search history. Provided your employees bill by the hour, your accountant will be able to create resources that compare the fraudster with their colleagues to accurately gauge how much time is going missing.
Those who fail audits should be invited to time management training and be advised that if their behaviour does not correct itself, there may be consequences.
At the end of the day, those who are determined to scam the system will find ways to do it. For these employees nothing short of hearings with the threat of eventual dismissal will likely work to prevent their behaviour. If, however, you simply implement the rules above, the 10-10-80 rule suggests that 80% of all time fraud should vanish, leading to a much more productive, happy and profitable company.
TONY FROST
Artists in their studio – Jo Scott
I was visiting Jo Scott at her home and studio, which she shares with her husband Gary. Walking through the garden gate, a white flowering shrub greeted me with an intoxicating scent. Her dogs bound up to the front door, and I immediately felt a warm welcome. This artist has lived in Franschhoek for the past thirty-five years. Her work mirrors her home and the village in which she resides. From a young age, Jo Scott wanted to paint. She had dabbled a little with art through all these years – and was given an oil painting set by her father (which she still treasures). An early work she recalls is a self-portrait in oils which she completed when she was sixteen years old.
It was only when she arrived in Franschhoek, in 1988, that she started painting and drawing wholeheartedly. She was immediately struck by the beautiful countryside, nature and cottages with their old-world gardens. The town was a picturesque farming village. Many of the farms were mixed wine and fruit farms. Most folks sent their produce off to co-ops and wine cellars. The village was very rural with empty plots dotting the
Poetic Licence
Margaret Ellen Clough (1934-2024)
– mother, grandmother, poet
This is a hard column to write. If you knew Margaret (Margie) Clough, who died on 17 September at the age of 90, you will understand why.
Here is an extract from the cover blurb of her final collection, Coasting Downhill, published posthumously:
“Margaret Clough grew up in Wellington as an only child, surrounded by books and aunts. She spent most of her life as a science teacher, soil chemist, food technologist and mother. Always a lover of reading and writing, she finally got to publish her first collection of poetry, At Least the Duck Survived, at 77.”
Remarkable in so many ways, not least for her irrepressible sense of fun even as the years slowed her down, Margie seemed to me, from the time I first heard her read at the McGregor Poetry Festival, a veritable force of nature. I cannot even begin to do her justice here, but I would like to share with you a taste of her talent.
One of the hardest poetic forms to master is the villanelle, which requires strict adherence to rhyme, rhythm and disciplined repetition within its nineteen lines. In this poem Margie manages it expertly:
Tomato Production
Precipice by Robert Harris.
Publ: Hutchinson/Heineman. 440 pages Robert Harris has made a name for himself by investigating well-known, as well as relatively obscure, historical events. By combining diligent research with a meticulous eye (and ear) for character he has brought to life the figures that have left giant footprints on the carpet of history. In his latest (16th) novel he brings to life two real historical characters who have a relatively meaningless affair that could have cataclysmic results if it goes wrong. The period is the glorious Edwardian summer just before the Great War breaks out. The persons in question are Herbert Henry Asquith, the 61-year old Prime Minister, and the 26-year old Venetia Stanley, a member of a louche London group called The Coterie. The plot does not involve a roaring sexual liaison between the unlikely pair. Rather it is an avalanche of letters between the two. Given that there are 6
village landscape. Hedgerows lined the residential streets. A couple of horses were grazing on some of the village fields, watching the occasional car passing by.
Franschhoek was distinctly old-world in character, like a town from another time and era. Everywhere Jo looked, she saw beauty, which inspired and captivated her. Jo felt she had to capture and paint it all before it disappeared and changed. Along with the gradual change, Jo changed too. She had to find inspiration from other sources and ideas. Over the years she has developed the colours, shapes, forms and content in her self-assured whimsical paintings. Her landscapes, plants, animals and portraits sing with bold colours and flowing rhythm. She has worked in most mediums but settled into acrylics for their versatility and ease of use. Her art is characterized as naïve, decorative and colourful. Her work is confident in its magical realism and lingering enchantment.
There were a few special people in her life who encouraged and inspired her, such as artist Rosita Manser of the Franschhoek Art House. The late Bridget Rowland, a celebrated Franschhoek artist would accompany Jo to a beautiful spot and paint plein air. It was such a privilege and joy to create art in the way the impressionists would. Jo’s art reveals much about her love of nature, which basks in the incandescent light of the valley. The late Mary Fedden, an artist and academic of the Royal Academy, painted in bold, vivid, contrasting
In plastic tunnels where no sunlight falls, kept safe from searing winds and driving rain, the vines stretch twisted fingers up the walls.
There are no seasons here. The plants are tall and carry fruit all year while they remain in plastic tunnels where no sunlight falls.
Burdened with heavy green and yellow balls like Christmas baubles hung on festive chains the vines stretch twisted fingers up the walls.
In these green glades no noisy songbird calls. Our voices hushed, we wander down the lanes of plastic tunnels where no sunlight falls.
Instead of sky they have a pure white pall, for soil, their roots have artificial grains. The vines stretch twisted fingers up the walls.
The farmer’s fields now look like shopping malls. It’s all for highest yield and greatest gain in plastic tunnels where no sunlight falls and vines stretch twisted fingers up the walls.
MargaretClough (fromPortraitinThreadandotherpoems)
A tiny woman with a huge personality, Margie was self-deprecatingly learned and widely read.
I like the following poem not only because it reminds me of one of my favourite insects, the Addo flightless dung beetle, but because of how it moves seamlessly from the personal (“a box in the attic”) to the universal via ancient Egypt and “the great god Kephri”.
Scarab
Locked in a box in the attic,
postal deliveries a day, it was the equivalent of a bilateral torrent of WhatsApps.
From his side, the older man combines moonish expressions of love, interspersed with highly confidential wartime secrets of the utmost importance and danger if they were ever intercepted by a foreign spy. From her side the younger woman returns his expressions of love, combined with fairly sensible advice on how to run the country and win the war. (It makes one think, but more about that later.)
If one keeps to the plotline you see the emergence of a possible le Carre situation with a disillusioned Smiley as PM and a sexy spy as his foil. Concepts of patriotism and allegiance would be put the test. But the only nod to the conventional spy thriller is the figure of Deemer, a young policeman. When some of the PM’s letters are found at the side of a country road (where he has carelessly tossed them out of the window of his official Napier) Deemer is given the job of solving the mystery of their provenance. He goes undercover, intercepts the mail, and in a jiffy he has discovered who the ardent letter-writers are.
He has the makings of a spy, but, alas, the letters never cause any harm, he himself comes to no harm and the whole ridiculous charade winds
colours. This artist is much loved by Jo and resonates with her artistic sensibilities and subject matter.
Botticelli, Vermeer, Modigliani and the French impressionists are the artists who influenced her along the road. These artists, together with Gaugin have been an inspiration to her throughout her painting and artmaking adventure.
She was also struck by how dedicated Hockney was, starting off in his tiny bedsit with a huge sign PAINT facing him each morning as he awoke.
Jo has described her path as an artist, as ‘committing to the best she can deliver and to stay authentic to her core truths.’
As her art developed, so did technology and her use of it. Jo comments how in days gone by the Impressionists gathered in wine and coffee houses, sharing their ideas, work, and learning from each other, encouraging each other to persevere and to achieve greater heights. These days, this is mostly accomplished online. ’‘Artists inspire each other by bringing to the surface that which is already within oneself” says Jo. She has found the computer to be valuable in the development and creation of many of her prints for the beautiful and enchanting greeting cards she makes.
wrapped up in cotton wool are bits and pieces from Egyptian tombs: the white clay mask that covered up the mummy of a cat, the red and yellow beads, the little figurines of clay.
And at the bottom, underneath them all an amulet with hieroglyphic markings, a sacred scarab.
It lies there with its insect head and rounded back, shiny as the mirror on the wall, blue as the Western desert sky from which the great god Kephri grabbed the sun each night between his beetle claws to roll it underneath the earth until at daybreak on the Eastern side he threw it up so men could see and worship it again.
MargaretClough (fromPortraitinThreadandotherpoems)
Enveloped by her devoted family and friends, Margie nevertheless spent her final years in what she often termed “this Old Age Complex”, and her amused yet unflinching eye was cast on this fact too. Two short poems from her last collection which might simply be parts of the same one are these:
I Am (1)
I am a dried-out piece of bark blackened and slowly rotting in a bed of pine needle litter
I am from an old and withered tree leaning over a river, a perch
down of its own accord.
That probably is the sum of the novel as a non-crime story. But the author is known for his punctilious research into the historical background of his stories. This narrative takes place over less than a year, from 2 July 1914 to 17 May 1915 and we watch a pageant of luminaries enter and exit.
Winston Churchill, Edwin Montagu, Lord Kitchener and many others bicker and argue as the Great War looms ominously and then breaks out. Asquith is distracted by his affair. One can measure the progress of the war by the futility of the arguments and the mounting casualties.
After a break from painting for a year or two, Jo has just begun a new journey in abstract painting. It has taken her a while to get going and she has feared taking the plunge, as it is so different to anything else she had previously done! She is taking ‘shaky‘ steps but with all her previous endeavours, she will most certainly succeed with grace and humility.
Jo admits, truth be known, that creating art is emotionally challenging, whatever your inclination, one is always vacillating between ‘this is hopeless’ and ‘this is ‘great.’ “The ‘hopeless’ thoughts can be overwhelming, but you have to keep ignoring them.” My visit to Jo’s studio left me with a sense of magic and marvel at how Jo creates her distinctive and wondrous art.
www.joscott.co.za
for kingfishers and cormorants
I am going soon, to slide down into brackish water, awash with weeds and float away to an unknown shore then I will no longer be a part of what you know or what you might wish for me to be.
I Am (2)
I am an old woman living alone in a retirement complex. Still clinging to life, though my existence is balanced on a knife-edge.
I am from a small Boland town not far away on the ground but I have to travel years and years back in my mind to find it again.
I am going next week to a talk on death and dying, in the TV lounge (Tea and biscuits to follow. Book your place at Reception)
Then I am going to clear out my cupboards, mend clothes and sew on buttons, tidy my room and perhaps rewrite my last will and testament.
MargaretClough
(fromCoastingDownhillandotherpoems,2024)
“It was more than ever like following a romantic novel published in instalments.”
The war is real. The affair is unreal. As Deemer thinks when he reads the letters he has intercepted,
That makes this very readable novel at the same time feel noticeably unreal. It seems unbelievable that, while the fiasco of the Dardanelles alone claims a total death toll of 110 000, the petty politicking in London goes on, undeterred.
Smalls
PLATTER GUIDES: Lifetime collection of Platter Wine Guides for sale. Every issue from highly sought-after first-ever 1980 edition to 2020 edition. All in excellent condition. R29k. WhatsApp 082 391 5327.
ARE YOU SUFFERING from diabetes, cerebrovascular, hypertension, influenza, TB, quit smoking, drug addiction? Call Shermika +27 63 895 0230
COTTAGE OR SIMILAR WANTED as soon as possible in Franschhoek area. Two bedrooms preferred but one sufficient. Character references and financial references from previous landlord. One friendly no barking dog, medium size. Up to R12,000 per month. Please call Jonathan 082 349 4945
DOMESTIC WORK / HOUSEKEEPER: My name is Ndazunga Longwe and I am a Malawian lady looking for a job as a domestic worker or housekeeper. I have 5 years’ experience, and pride myself in being a hard worker. Please contact me on 083 597 4657. For references, please contact Melisa at 074 034 0081 and Peru at 081 038 2351.
Need a PET/HOUSE-SITTER with good references?
Contact Ronelle @ 073 646 1687
RE-THINKING YOUR GARDEN? For Garden
Consulting call Susan at 072 932 5393
PET / HOUSE SITTING: Tina Stanley. Trusted pet & house sitter in Franschoek, WC. Reliable care for your pets & home, ensuring peace of mind while you’re away. Contact 083 448 4951 for bookings & references.
RE-FIBRE GLASS YOUR POOL in any colour you like. Call RiaPools for a quote: 072 347 5355
WESTERN CAPE HOUSE SITTERS: We have many mature, kind, responsible, animal loving, live-in house sitter members who would love to care for your home and pets. Your furry children may miss you but their environment and routines remain intact which is why we at Western Cape House Sitters will provide a perfect win-win for everyone... Peter Walsingham 082 822 4200 info@westerncapehousesitters.co.za
CHANGING TO A SALT WATER SYSTEM? Let us advise & quote for you! Call RiaPools: 072 347 5355
POOL PUMP PROBLEMS? Noise? We quote and help you out! Call RiaPools: 072 347 5355
STUFF WANTED: All manner of clothing and household items needed for our ‘First Friday of The Month’ jumble sales. Please help us to help the animals of the valley. Please drop off at the SPCA clinic in La Provence Street, Groendal, or phone for us to collect. 021 876 4808
FRESH, ORGANIC FARM PRODUCE: Delivered weekly to Franschhoek, including vegetables and fruit in season, chicken, eggs, cheese, honey, etc. Lists of available produce received on Monday, orders placed on Tuesday for Wednesday delivery. A number of Franschhoekers are already receiving weekly deliveries. To be added to the list contact Sue Norman on 083 321 3442 or suenorman50@outlook.com.
DO YOU STILL HAVE THAT POOL LEAK? Losing water all the time? Let us quote and take care of the problem! Call RiaPools: 072 347 5355
PROFESSIONAL POOL SERVICE REQUIRED? Keep it local! Get a quote. Call RiaPools: 072 347 5355
HOUSE/PET SITTER: I have worked with animals for over 20 years. I need to bring my 16-year-old dog with me. He sleeps all day and is not a barker. Fees are reasonable and references are available. Internet access essential. For further details call Rentia 072 324 3882.
Community Events
SPORT
FRANSCHHOEK TENNIS CLUB: Social tennis is played at the club on Fridays, Sundays and Public Holidays from 08h30. For more information contact Nicky. 082 455 6411
PARKRUN: Saturdays at Rickety Bridge Wine Estate. Time: 08h00. Cost: Free. Register at www.parkrun.co.za
CHURCH SERVICES
METHODIST CHURCH: Sunday service 10h00. Rev Russell Norman. 021 872 3580 or 082 662 4509.
NG KERK: Sondagdienste 09h30. Geen aanddiens. Ds Peet Bester. 021 876 2431. Besoekers welkom.New
Apostolic Church: Le Roux Street, Groendal. Sundays 09h00, Wednesdays 19h30. Rector: Charles Leibrandt.
ST GEORGE’S ANGLICAN CHURCH: Groot Drakenstein. Sunday Services: Holy Communion and Sunday School 10h00. Revd Wilfred Meyer 084 407 1280. Office - 021 874 4008. willowdale@cybersmart.co.za
SHOFAR CHRISTIAN CHURCH: Services - 09h00 & 18h00 English services at 7 Lambrechts Street. Pastor Richard Wade. 083 225 8529. All welcome!
UNITING REFORMED CHURCH: Sunday service 09h30. Dr Shaun Burrows. 021 876 2632. Visitors welcome.
GENERAL
Alcoholics Anonymous: WED evenings 19:00, Groendal Community Centre, Contact David +27 83 305 5159
Useful Numbers
ACCOUNTANTS
Tax Shop 021 876 2676
ATTORNEYS
Susan Charlesworth 021 876 2592/072 402 9469
Snipelisky & Killian 083 250 0943/021 876 2084
BURGLAR ALARMS
Pepler Alarms 021 876 3308
CLUBS & ASSOCIATIONS
Boland Bridge Club 021 876 3031
Franschhoek Tennis Club 078 278 4843
FHK Heritage & Ratepayers Ass. 083 441 8280
Groot Drakenstein Games Club 021 874 1906
- Craig Mc Naught: Captain 080 845 1014
- Lejean Pieterse, Hiring 082 490 0405
Lions 021 876 3775
Stb Masonic Lodge (Chris) 072 211 9991
Franschhoek Rotary Club 082 891 4613
Franschhoek Probus Club 021 876 3179
ELECTRICAL
Franschhoek Electric 074 313 7829/021 876 3640
Rensburg Electrical 021 876 2120/083 309 2923
HEALTH & BEAUTY
Franschhoek Pharmacy 021 876 2261
Franschhoek Health Club 021 876 3310
Karen Protheroe (Dietician) 082 925 0931
HOUSE & GARDEN
Clock Repairs 028 840 1716
Lighting & Accessories 021 876 3640
Ria Pools (Franschhoek) 021 876 2612/072 347 5355
Sue’s Gardens 083 321 3442
Valley Garden Service 071 591 0342
OPTOMETRIST
Marelise Bester 021 872 3530
PHYSIOTHERAPY
Fhk Physiotherapy Associates 021 876 4234 (office) 074 325 5555 (Bronwen) 076 842 6052 (Maans)
PLUMBERS
Franschhoek Plumbing 021 876 3759
PSYCHOLOGIST
Danielle Smith 082 812 1476
PUBLIC SERVICES
Hospice 021 876 3085
Library 021 808 8406
Post Office 021 876 2342
Welfare (ACVV) 021 876 2670
SPCA 083 745 5344
SHARF 076 327 4939
SCHOOLS
Bridge House School 021 874 8100
Franschhoek High School 021 876 2079
Groendal Primary School 021 876 2448
Groendal Secondary School 021 876 2211
Wes-Eind Primary School 021 876 2360
Dalubuhle Primary School 021 876 3957
STORAGE
Franschhoek Storage 021 876 2174
TOURIST INFORMATION & SERVICES
Info Office 066 224 6360 / 073 688 9894
Huguenot Memorial Museum 021 876 2532
VETERINARY
Fhk Animal Clinic (plus surgery) 021 876 2504
Emergencies / Weekends 021 863 3187 / 082 8089
100
EMERGENCY NUMBERS
Stb Fire Dept. (Buildings) 021 808 8888
District Municipality(Bush & veld) 021 887 4446 021 886 9244
Police 10111/021 876 8061
Eskom 086 003 7566
Omnipage Farm Watch 021 852 3318
Plaaswag 021 876 2346
N1, N2 & R300 Emergency number: 021 946 1646
DENTISTS
Dr Schalk du Plessis 021 876 3070
DOCTORS
Dr Karin Eksteen 021 876 4622
Dr Alexander Heywood 021 876 2474
Dr Hannes Van der Merwe 066 100 6429
Dr Nicolas Els 021 876 2561
Dr Bernard Fisher 021 876 4622
AUDIOLOGIST
Audiologist Tracy-Ann Morris 084 264 0000
EMERGENCY MEDICAL RESPONSE
Medicare EMR 074 363 7744/021 876 4316
MUNICIPALITY
(Ward 1) Clr Pfeiffer (DA) 079 597 2765
(Ward 2) Clr Petersen (DA) 082 404 5055
(Ward 3) Clr Manuel (DA) 074 686 2364
unfortunately don't get along with other dogs and cats. They have an extremely strong bond and need to be adopted together This duo is fairly laid back, but can be playful
too and enjoy exercise and open spaces. Happy is more outgoing and loves playing fetch and fun in the water Lady is more lady like and just wants to be loved and have her golden coat stroked. Both dogs are medium-sized and have swe et and lov ing natures.
T
hoping to leave kennel life behind
adventures with a loving, caring
, sterlized and microchipped.
Trash, Recycle or Donate?
Tips for clearing clutter, especially if you are selling
They don’t call it a Spring-clean for nothing. When the warmer months arrive, it is often a good time to clean out some of the clutter in your home. During the colder months especially, it can become quite easy to just keep piling things into cupboards and create clutter all over the house.
Whether you are thinking of downsizing, selling, or just want to simplify your life, taking time to declutter is always a good idea. Clearing the clutter is especially important if you are thinking of selling your home, according to the Seeff Property Group.
A tidy home starts with that first inspection when agents come to view our property to provide an assessment and recommendation on the price that you could expect. A clean and decluttered home will immediately create a good impression and make it easy for the agent, and potential buyers.
Whether you are selling or not, there are numerous benefits to a clean and clutter-free home. It has been proven that a messy house can make you anxious. A clutter-free home creates reduced stress and anxiety. A cluttered home also makes it difficult to find things when you need them.
Start by going from room to room. Make three piles, or use three containers. The first could be what you are “definitely throwing out”, the second, what you “want to donate or recycle”, and the last pile could be your “maybe keep for now” pile. Be sure to go through the last pile again in case you want to throw some more unused stuff.
Use containers in your cupboards and bathrooms, that will make it easier to clear out all the unnecessary items. Make a point of clearing surfaces in the kitchen and bathrooms. If the property is put up for sale, then it is best to also depersonalise it by removing and storing all personal items such as photographs for privacy reasons.
Dedicate time to the decluttering and cleaning process. Either do one room per day, or dedicate a Saturday to the task. By dedicating time, you can ensure that it gets done and is completed in a timeous manner. Immediately bag and discard items which need to be thrown out, or contact a local charity to collect the items. Remember, charities usually look for usable things, rather than broken items.
A few great rules for decluttering include:
The 6-months rule. If you have not used, or looked for something for the last six months, it is likely obsolete and can be thrown out.
The 5-second rule. If you cannot decide within 5-seconds whether you still need an item, or will still wear it again, throw it out.
The 1 for 1 rule. Try to throw something away for everything that you keep.
Freecycle or donate what you can. There are often people who may need that which you are throwing out. Be sure to freecycle if you can, or donate to charities in need.
Trash could be cash. There are also some people who will buy things that you throw out.
A final tip is to clean and repair as you go along so that the home is in a good state once the process is complete. Remember to do a good clear out and clean up at least once a year. This should include steam cleaning carpets, curtains and furniture, and deep cleaning floors, surfaces, and cupboards.
Ted Frazer, national marketing manager for the Seeff Property Group says homeowners and sellers can also contact their nearest Seeff branch to find out more about Seeff’s Home2Home Campaign which facilitates the donation of unwanted goods in a good and usable condition to charities in need.
Text: Editorial Desk | Image: Supplied
When is the right time to move or to sell?
To move, or not to move is often the question that existing home owners have to grapple with, especially if they are an expanding family, or an older couple faced with an empty nest, according to the Seeff Property Group.
Home owners are often approached by estate agents enquiring whether they want to sell, usually because there is a demand for homes in the area for a variety of reasons. It could for example be an area with good schools and many older buyers where younger families want to move into the area for access to the schools.
By not selling, the homeowner may be losing out on a good price, and the opportunity to create a more fulfilling life in the golden years, according Seeff. Holding onto a big, empty house means a lot of work and cleaning, and it might not make sense to hold onto empty rooms which are never used.
That said, it is a life-changing decision. Seeff says these are some of the reasons why you should consider selling:
The nest is empty. If your children are out of the house and you are left with a big, empty house and lots of cleaning to do, then it may be time to scale down. Moving out of your big family property to a smaller home is often just the lifestyle change that older people need. It will generally also free up some cash to take a trip of a lifetime, or enjoy a better quality lifestyle.
Better access to schools. If you have children in school and have to commute long distances in heavy traffic, it may be more economical in terms of time and cost to move to an area with easier school access. Young people looking to start a family should factor schools into their buying decision as it could save the hassle of having to sell and move elsewhere later on.
Moving closer to work. Another big headache could be the daily commutes to and from work, especially with the rising traffic problems in the cities. Good access to main arterials could be a solution for some. Others may gain from actually moving closer to their place of work. In some instances, you may need to downscale as homes closer to work may be more expensive.
Is it time to upsize? If you are a growing family,
or if the need arises to make space for a parent, it might be time to move to a bigger home. For some, a better job or salary increase could also offer the opportunity to move to a bigger home, or a better neighbourhood. Rather than expanding and renovating, it might actually make sense to rather move to a bigger home.
Should we downsize? There seems to be a growing trend towards a simpler lifestyle and enjoying more free time. This has led some people to trade their big suburban home for a more compact apartment that overlooks the ocean where they could take leisurely evening strolls, or cycle over the weekends. Often, these homes in the sky mean a cut down on maintenance, more security, and a better quality lifestyle.
Should we move to the country, or an estate?
A small country town is often sought by younger families looking for a wholesome environment to raise their children. Similarly, many older people look to get away from the busy cities to a quieter country or seaside town. Estates have become a sought-after alternative as they often offer lifestyle benefits, and security, yet still with good access to the city.
Text: Editorial Desk | Image: Supplied
SHOWROOM:
Unit 89C Village Artisan Cabriere Street, Franschhoek
FRANSCHHOEK’S SPECIALIST PAINT SHOP
We stock a full range of Midas, environmentally friendly paints (water and oil based) and Earthcote specialised, textured trowel-on and brushon products for wall and floor surfaces (300 colours to choose from) and a full range of paint brushes, rollers and accessories. We also stock waterproofing products, Weatherprufe and Eco Rubber, Rolls of torch-on (3mm & 4mm) and various sizes of waterproofing membrane. Plascon water and oil-based paints.
We also stock a full range of Woodoc 'food for wood' in various colours and a full range of Duram products, including Duram Roof paints in various colours and Duram Showfloor Polyurethane floor paint, also in assorted colours. We can also supply twin pack epoxy paints for specialised applications.
All textures and colours are on show in our showroom. Pop in and have a coffee with us, whilst leisurely selecting your paints and colours. For FREE technical advice, paint specifications and quotations contact Paul 082 567 6162
Selling now! Only 5 Two-Bedroom Villas Available
Palazzo D’avid: The Crown jewel of L’ermitage
L’Ermitage Franschhoek Châ teau and Villas is an exquisite, well-established sectional title hotel development nestled on the picturesque slopes of the Franschhoek Pass within walking distance to town. It is surrounded by the world-renowned Haute Cabriè re and Chamonix wine estates, offering breathtaking views of the Franschhoek Valley and mountain views. Discover the enchanting magic of Franschhoek, celebrated as the food, wine, and art capital of South Africa. The visionary developer behind this award-winning project proudly unveils its crowning achievement—Palazzo D’avid.
Luxury Self Catering Villas and Hotel Suites
Palazzo D’avid comprises of: two opulent hotel suit es, two lavish one-bedroom villas, and five luxurious two-bedroom villas. The pi è ce de r é sistance is the splendid four-bedroom Presidential Villa and the grand three-bedroom Penthouse, each a sanctuary of sophistication. The Penthouse boasts a private s ky lounge, complete with a jacuzzi, dining, entertainment area and a rooftop garden with breathtaking panoramas of the F ranschhoek Wine Valley.
The piazza will be home to a restaurant with live p iano music on special occasions. The Wellness centre to be complete with a sauna, Hammam , and Jacuzzi, the perfect prelude to an unforgettable treatment in one of our luxurious sin gle or double treatment rooms.
A Rare Investment Opportunity - Let your property work for you when you don’t use it!
Owners can choose to manage and market their villas independently for short- or long-term rentals or partner with our esteemed management operator for a hassle-free experience. This is not merely a property purchase, but an unparalleled lifestyle investment.
Don’t Miss Out on This Investment of a Lifetime!
VILLAGE HOME ON 2,000m2
EXCLUSIVE MANDATE: This historic gem, circa 1863, has been sensitively updated to present charming original features with a fresh, contemporary twist. The front facade is a recognisable landmark on Dirkie Uys Street and its large corner position conceals many hidden treasures beyond its walls, coupled with the most magnificent garden. A unique home and a very rare find even by Franschhoek standards.
The entrance opens into a generous openplan lounge with high ceilings and shuttered sash windows and follows through to the dining room with fireplace and quaint country kitchen with all the mod cons. This original part of the main house incorporates two bedrooms en-suite: a master with walk-through dressing room and doors out to the pool terrace; and a second smaller bedroom en-suite.
The poolside annex provides further accommodation in two generous bedroom suites with charming en-suite bathrooms. The swimming pool area with outdoor lounge/dining terrace offers an ideal space for entertaining with gorgeous mountain views and charming garden outlook.
The extensive garden (with private borehole) is filled with large mature trees and offers a private sanctuary in the heart of the village.
Also includes full solar power system, single garage, a large laundry/store room with staff toilet and a separate wine cellar.
Tom Clode 079 955 3114
Terry-Lee George 082 650 9194 R15 995 000
VILLAGE HOME
EXCLUSIVE MANDATE: Charming 3 bed country cottage with separate 1 bed garden suite, within walking distance of the village, boasting huge country appeal. Extensive garden brimming with mature trees and shrubs and indigenous plants. The 3 bedroom main house welcomes you with a long stoep running the length of the property.
The heart of the home is the open plan kitchen/dining room and living room with fireplace. Three bedrooms share a family bathroom. Period features include wooden sash windows throughout and terracotta tiles.
To the rear of the main house is an east facing patio perfect for morning sun, a medium size sparkling pool and a separate small outhouse with potential to convert to a garden office or pool entertainment room.
In a secluded position away from the main house is a one bedroom cottage with en-suite, ideal for house guests/Air BnB, spacious wine cellar, separate gardener’s loo and car port. Semi off the grid there is a strong borehole supplying both domestic and irrigation water and a 5KW solar system with inverter and battery.
This lovely property has lots of potential and viewing is highly recommended. Plot size 957 sqm.
Tom Clode 079 955 3114
Terry-Lee George 082 650 9194 R7 250 000
